Horses, Heritage, Hope: Introducing Elpida Equestrian
Athena Lekkas and Karthago Di Cabra (Photo by Romeo Ghete for Equinium)
Palm Beach Gardens, FL (June 10, 2022) - As equestrians, hope is a key and required aspect of day to day existence and the passion that surrounds horses. Whether it’s hoping for a good ride, a clean round, or a gold medal, every equestrian arrives to the barn each day with a certain amount of hope for their horses and their riding. For Athena Lekkas, that hope was the driving force behind the design and launch of her personal brand, Elpida Equestrian. Combined with unique elements of her heritage and horses, Lekkas’ launch of Elpida marks a new beginning in her equestrian career.
Elpida comes from the ancient Greek word ἐλπίς (elpis) – the personification and spirit of hope in Greek mythology
Lekkas is the rider behind Elpida Equestrian, and her Puerto Rican and Greek heritage have inspired her to choose the word Elpida for her brand. It represents hope for her horses, her riding, and for the future.
Lekkas began her riding career at 9 years old, when a birthday party and subsequent summer camp ignited her passion for horses. She competed in her first show at the Jupiter Horseman’s Association, where she received Grand Champion in the 2-foot Jumpers and Equitation. From there she progressed quickly, building her skill under the guidance of Michele Blair of Desert Rose Ranch, Michael Dorman of Wyndmont, and Sebastian Robayo of Amparo Equestrian. She currently rides and competes with Ashley Glica of ATG Equestrian in Loxahatchee, Florida.
Last year, Athena moved to the 1M Jumpers, taking the win in her first class at that level in September of 2021 to close out the fall season. Athena’s current competition horse is Karthago Di Cabra, a 13-year-old 17.3h Belgian Warmblood gelding with a beautiful jump and generous stride that she currently rides in the 1.15M Modifier Jumpers. During ESP's Spring IV competition in May, Lekkas and Karthago highlighted their week with a 3rd place in the 1.15M Jumper Classic.
Lekkas aboard Karthago with her parents, friends, and ATG Equestrian barn family
Lekkas and Karthago competing at the 2022 Winter Equestrian Festival
"Karthago and I had really solid rounds on the spring circuit, and we are looking forward to competing more in Wellington and Ocala this summer," said Lekkas. "We are really working on maximizing our speed and scope without losing the rhythm and precision. Karthago is an awesome horse and Ashley [Glica] has really helped us both develop as we progress towards the 1.20Ms."
As a full time 9th Grade student at The Benjamin School, Lekkas balances her time between her education and riding. Her long term goals include competing in her first Grand Prix during her Junior or Senior year of high school, and ultimately representing her country in international competition. She also enjoys traveling, and riding and competing in new and beautiful places.
For more information on Elpida Equestrian, visit www.ElpidaEquestrian.com.
Follow Athena and Elpida Equestrian on Instagram (@elpida_equestrian)!
PR Contact:
Holly Johnson
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
www.Equinium.com
holly@equinium.com
+1 954 205 7992
