Sarah Welk Baynum is a prominent figure in the Thoroughbred racehorse industry, hailing from a long line of horse racing enthusiasts. Born into the Rice family, Baynum’s upbringing was deeply intertwined with the world of racehorses. Her parents, who were both actively involved in the industry, instilled in her a passion for horses from a young age.
Growing up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Baynum’s family eventually made the move to Ocala, Florida, where they purchased Woodside Ranch. This strategic decision allowed them to take advantage of the favorable climate for developing young horses. From a tender age of 10, Baynum was already involved in various aspects of horse care and training, from riding jogging horses to learning how to shoe horses.
The Rice family’s commitment to the racehorse industry was evident in their daily routines. Even on holidays like Christmas, the family would come together to care for their horses, showcasing their dedication and love for their equine companions. These shared experiences created lasting memories and strengthened the family bond.
As Baynum grew older, her involvement in the industry deepened. She attended Florida State University while continuing to work with horses on the side. A period of overseas travel broadened her horizons and allowed her to gain valuable experience in different settings. Upon her return, Baynum worked with various trainers, honing her skills and expanding her network within the industry.
It was during this time that Baynum met her future husband, Brandon Rice, who shared her passion for horses. Together, they formed RiceHorse Stables, a partnership focused on developing a unique training system for their horses. With a shared background in breaking and training young horses, Baynum and Rice combined their expertise to create a program that emphasized proper riding techniques and overall horse well-being.
Today, RiceHorse Stables is home to a thriving community of 50-75 horses each year, all receiving what Baynum and Rice refer to as „a RiceHorse education.“ Their training system prioritizes the horses‘ physical and mental well-being, aiming to bring out the best in each animal, regardless of their level of competition.
In addition to training their own horses, Baynum and Rice also work with client horses, offering their expertise as agents at various sales events. Their keen eye for talent has led them to scout thousands of horses each year, seeking out promising yearlings that can benefit from their specialized training program.
Furthermore, Baynum and Rice have expanded their operations to include a breeding program, focusing on producing foals with the same tenacity and speed as their beloved mare. With a small stable of broodmares and a growing breeding program, they are dedicated to continuing their family’s legacy in the industry.
Despite their success and growth, Baynum remains grounded in her family’s roots and values. With relatives like Aunt Linda Rice, a renowned trainer in New York, serving as a source of inspiration, Baynum is motivated to achieve great things in the world of horse racing. The Rice family’s deep connection to horses and their unwavering dedication to excellence continue to drive Baynum and RiceHorse Stables towards a bright future in the industry.
