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.
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.
Show Jumping Trailblazer
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.
Motivational Speaker & Mentor
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.
Award Winning Athlete
Career & Achievements
Member of the U.S. Equestrian Team
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Recipient of the Trailblazer Courage Award
In 2017, Donna was honored with the Trailblazer Courage Award at the Women’s Sports Museum annual gala in Sarasota, Florida. This accolade recognized her resilience and determination in overcoming challenges within a sport traditionally dominated by the very wealthy.
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Ethos Award for Changing the Narrative of Equestrian Sports
In 2022, Donna received the Ethos Award from an organization founded by Roberta Wilmore and Jess Saalfield, celebrating individuals who advance the representation of Black and Brown communities in equestrian sports, thereby reshaping the narrative of the discipline.
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Featured in "Who’s Who among Black Americans"
Donna's remarkable contributions have earned her a place in “Who’s Who among Black Americans,” a prestigious biographical publication showcasing thousands of notable Black individuals since the 1970s. This compendium highlights the achievements of African Americans across diverse fields, reflecting their significant impact and excellence throughout U.S. history.
The Impact of Donna's Work
Journey from local arenas to International Competition
Build Mental Resilience and Confidence with Sports Psychology, Visulization and Easy Techniquest 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.
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