When you think of Danielle Goldstein, you might first think of the vibrant train of feathers that follow her from jump to jump, captured in all their vivacity as she soars in the grand prix arena. But with or without the added flair to her attire, the 34-year-old Team Israel rider is, at heart, a serious and dedicated athlete.

She lives, eats, and breathes like the sport, putting in long hours and hard work day after day. On the road for much of the year, she’s gotten accustomed to getting little sleep, grabbing quick takeout meals, and spending most of her time working with her horses (like longtime mount and fan favorite, Lizziemary).

Yet, even the fiercest of competitors have to take a day off here and there, and even a die-hard like Dani sees the value in some down-time. While she isn’t one for too much time away (it’s hard to leave the barn when you love the sport as much as she does), she’s a firm believer in sleep, self-care, and spending time with the people she loves.