Nicolas “Nico” Gamboa hails from a family of riders. His grandfather was in the calvary, and all five of his grandfather’s sons went on to successful equestrian careers. Now, Gamboa, 22, is following in their footsteps.

“It’s kind of always been in my blood,” said Gamboa, who grew up riding and competing on the East Coast. “There are pictures of me on horses before I could even walk or talk.”

In 2021, after two years spent in Europe working for Olympic gold medalist Ludger Beerbaum, Gamboa joined the team at Heineking Show Stables and relocated to Texas, making his first trip to the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show. The following year, Gamboa proved to be a force to be reckoned with in the grand prix ring.

With NKH Mr. Darcy, owned by Neil Knox, Gamboa earned the win in the $30,000 Third Coast Bank Grand Prix held during Week I, marking his very first grand prix victory. Just two weeks later, the duo returned to the winners circle, this time topping the $25,000 EPIC Sporthorses Grand Prix.

In the time since then, Gamboa has amassed quite the winning resume – for which he is quick to thank Christian Heineking, Erin Davis Heineking and owners like Knox. Perhaps most notable among Gamboa’s impressive grand prix wins since Pin Oak 2022 are his first FEI victory in the CS12* Grand Prix of Monterrey in Mexico and, most recently, his win in the $100,000 Lone Star State Grand Prix at the Texas Winter Series in February.

Now, Gamboa is happy to return to the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show, where he says the Southern hospitality is unmatched.

“The people are so inviting and respectful,” said Gamboa. “It’s just a good environment. Everyone really cares about the exhibitors. The staff, the people, everyone supports each other.”