Shan Wilson

Wilson and his brother, Chris Wilson, formed horse-training facility Chrishan Park in 1988 with a nine-stall barn and a small pasture that served as an arena. Wilson now oversees the care of more than 100 Arabian horses, and he maintains 35 to 40 horses for training at Chrishan’s Springfield location.

“I have grown the original stables of 25 stalls to 48 stalls and added an additional outdoor riding arena,” Wilson said. “I have added a climate-controlled viewing area in the indoor arena and insulated the indoor riding arena and the stabling areas. I have also added a hot walker and breeding area. I am continually improving the fencing and overall appearance and functionality of this historic estate.”

Wilson also manages the breeding program and aids customers in making decisions regarding breeding goals.

The Wilson brothers, though, aren’t alone in their love of horses. Shan’s wife, Mollie, operates Miss Mollie’s Riding School at Chrishan Park.

Wilson’s plans have included expansion: Chrishan Park now has operations in Kansas City and Indianapolis, and there will soon be a site in Alberta, Canada.

And his successes have garnered industry recognition. He’s won dozens of National Championships and Reserve National Championships and coached riders to nearly 100 other championships. He guided purebred Arabian stallion Mamage to the title of Winningist Purebred English Pleasure Stallion of all time.

Wilson has also been listed among the Top 10 English trainers in the United States for the last five years by Arabian Horse World.

Wilson is active in Big Brothers Big Sisters and with Springfield Executive Breakfast Club.

Born: 1967

What do you feel is your most important accomplishment to date? Marrying my beautiful wife, Mollie.

What book do you currently have open? “Think & Grow Rich,” by Napoleon Hill

Quote to live by: “A man can succeed at almost anything for which he has unlimited enthusiasm.”