Member Spotlight: Marion Mahadiow

Name: Marion Mahadiow

Role: Traffic Engineer Specialist

Location: DMV (Chapter President)

What is your favorite part about being a Lady Saddlers Club member?

What I love most about being a Lady Saddlers Club member is that the mission and vision of the group are exactly what I get out of it—every single day.

It’s the community, the connection, the genuine sisterhood—something I honestly didn’t have before. As an adult, most friendships come from your workplace, and let’s be real—half the time, your only bond is not liking your job. There are age gaps, different stages of life, and not much else in common.

But in Lady Saddlers, we all share this one beautiful passion: horses. And from there, everything else just kinda unfolds— meaningful conversations, traveling together, shopping, brunches, even hobbies like golfing or dancing. It’s a space where the energy I give is matched—where support, love, and positivity are truly mutual.

What do you love about horseback riding?

It comes down to three big things:

First, it’s humbling. There’s something grounding about tacking and caring for such a strong, powerful animal. It really demands my full attention—and in that, I get to shut out the noise of life and work. It gives me a chance to be fully present, focused only on this majestic creature in front of me.

Second, the riding itself—being in the saddle, on top of a 1,000-pound animal while I’m barely 200 pounds at 5’4”. There’s this unspoken moment where I’m guiding, steering, stopping, and moving in harmony with this incredible being. It makes you realize just how powerful and trusting the relationship has to be.

Third, it’s the bond. Horses are sensitive, intuitive, and sometimes a little fractious, and building that relationship reminds me to slow down and connect—not just with the horse, but with nature and the moment itself.

What is your favorite equestrian event?

I truly love attending The Preakness Stakes. Each year, Baltimore bursts to life hosting the second leg of the triple crown with thrilling horse races, unforgettable fashion, and an electric atmosphere! It’s much more than a race—it’s a city-wide celebration where tradition blends seamlessly with excitement, and the community pulses with energy. For locals and visitors alike, Preakness is a can’t-miss experience full of passion, pride, and nonstop exhilaration that cements Baltimore’s place at the heart of the horse racing world.

As a thoroughbred owner, I’d say “I enjoy horse racing” because there’s an undeniable thrill whether my horse is running or I’m watching others compete. When you’re cheering for your horse or someone else’s, the world seems to quiet down, and all your focus is on that race. Win or lose, that excitement never fades—and there’s always a deep sense of pride just knowing your horse took to the track.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

“Life throws curveballs, but never complain about the things you cannot change. The only things worth complaining about are the ones you can.”

That stuck with me. It reminds me to shift my energy towards action and acceptance—not dwelling on what’s out of my hands, but instead focusing on what I can do to move forward; it also helps me to manage my expectations!