Show Jumping Trailblazer
Equestrian.Champion.Author.
Donna Cheek is the first Black rider to represent the U.S. in international competition.
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About Donna
Donna's philosophy of mental toughness, representation, and holistic training
Overcoming incredible odds in a sport dominated by the wealthy, Donna Cheek’s supportive parents turned her dream into a reality when at age seven, she began taking riding lessons. A hunter/jumper for more than 45 years, Donna made sports history, becoming the first black woman to join the U.S. Equestrian Team in 1981 and the first equestrian to be inducted into the Women’s Sports Hall of Fame.
Read Her StoryWhat She Stands For
Show Jumping Trailblazer
Donna Cheek broke barriers as the first Black rider to represent the United States in international show-jumping competition. Her success challenged long-standing perceptions of who belongs in elite equestrian sports. She continues to inspire riders from all backgrounds to pursue excellence at the highest levels.
Motivational Speaker & Mentor
Donna shares powerful messages of resilience, mental toughness, and self-belief drawn from her life as a pioneer in equestrian sport. Her story resonates with youth, athletes, and leaders seeking inspiration. She delivers engaging talks that empower audiences to push past limitations and embrace their full potential.
Award Winning Athlete
Donna’s competitive achievements earned her major honors, including induction into the Women’s Sports Hall of Fame. Her dedication to training, focus, and partnership with her horses set her apart in the show-jumping world. Her accomplishments continue to stand as a testament to excellence and perseverance.
Career & Achievements
Member of the U.S. Equestrian Team
First Black American Show-Jumper for the U.S.
In 1982, Donna made history as the first Black rider to represent the United States internationally in show jumping. Selected by the United States Equestrian Team (USET), she participated in the American Junior Show Jumping Championship held in Mexico City, marking a significant milestone in sports history.
NAACP Image Award for “One More Hurdle”
In 1986, Donna portrayed herself in the lead role of her life story for an NBC afterschool special, earning accolades, including the NAACP Image Award and a Motion Picture Council Bronze Halo for its inspiring narrative.
Inductee of the National Women’s Sports Hall of Fame
Donna's remarkable achievements in equestrian sports were formally recognized in 1997 when she became the only equestrian ever inducted into the National Women’s Sports Hall of Fame. This honor, bestowed during an awards luncheon in Cincinnati, Ohio, celebrated her exceptional contributions both in and out of the competition arena.
The Impact of Donna's Work
Journey from local arenas to International Competition
Donna’s historic appearance in international show jumping is widely credited with increasing visibility for riders of color, inspiring an estimated 20 to 30% rise in minority youth interest in equestrian programs.
Through mentorship, speaking, and youth programs, Donna has reached over 10,000 young athletes, helping them build confidence, focus, and mental toughness.
Her simplified framework for young athletes is used by coaches and programs that collectively support more than 5,000 students annually.
As a radio host and frequent interview subject, Donna’s stories and messages reach an estimated 50,000+ listeners each year, expanding her influence beyond the arena.
Her trailblazing role helped expand conversations around diversity in elite equestrian sports, contributing to a 15% growth in DEI-focused equestrian initiatives launched by organizations nationwide.
The Book
Build Mental Resilience and Confidence with Sports Psychology, Visualization and Easy Techniques to Cope with Pressure
Are you searching for a straightforward guide to equip your young athletes with the mental tools they need to excel in sports? Do you want to help them conquer challenges like performance anxiety, inconsistency, and the fear of failure?
The Power of Mental Toughness for Young Athletes Simplified is here to forge a resilient mindset, instill confidence, and empower young athletes to thrive within and beyond the competition.
Get The BookSee what readers have to say!
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I found the exercises presented in The Power of Mental Toughness to be relevant for any individual, at any stage of life, seeking to be better.
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As I prepare to take my “Certified Personal Trainer” exam next month, I have found this book to be extremely timely and motivating.
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As an educator, I'm always looking for resources that help young people develop critical life skills. This book, while developed specifically for young athletes, is an excellent guide to building resilience, confidence, and focus that can benefit all young people.
Amy B.
For Business Inquiries
Contact Donna
To book Donna for a speaking engagement, appearance, or interview, send a note and her team will be in touch.
Los Angeles, CA