From the young age of 10, Will Masters has been enamored with Clydesdale horses.

It’s just something about their regal nature, the Wright City junior said.

“I first was interested because of the Budweiser Clydesdales,” Masters recalled. “They looked so sharp and uniform.”

Masters gets the chance to work directly with his favorite horses on his aunt and uncle’s horse farm – Primrose Clydesdales – located off Highway T in Foristell. Christina and Christopher Mann own the farm.

There are five Clydesdales on the farm, along with one paint, one pony and one palomino. Masters added that there are various other animals on the property, as well.

Masters said he doesn’t consider caring for the horses to be work at all.

“They’re a part of the family,” he said. “I wouldn’t call them a hobby.”

Masters said that his love of horses comes from his aunt, Christina.

“My Aunt grew up working with horses,” Masters said. “She has always loved all animals but especially horses. I am so lucky she, and the rest of my family, have always been so supportive of my love for the Clydesdale breed. I think I am very blessed with how my life is right now. I can't wait to see what the future holds for me.”

Amanda Masters, Will’s mom, said her son’s love for the gentle giants was a match made in heaven.

The bond formed between her son and the animals has been a fantastic thing for all involved.

“We have always described Will as a gentle soul,” Amanda said. “He has always worn his heart on his sleeve, has never known a stranger and is always the first to lend a helping hand. His love for animals has always been there. Animals tend to love him as well because of his gentle nature.”

Will Masters added that the family aspect of breeding the majestic horses has always appealed to him.

“The Clydesdales bring my family together and I really enjoy all the family time, especially during show season,” he said.

He said that one event during the show season, the World’s Clydesdale Show, definitely left an impression on him.

“I love to travel around the U.S. to show the horses,” Masters said. “This past summer was the World's Clydesdale Show in Springfield, Ill. People from all over the world, (from places) such as Scotland, attended. It was such an amazing experience. My family showed in numerous classes and I really enjoyed meeting people from all over. I am excited for the one that will be held in Canada in a few years. I just think how outstanding it is that I get to work with amazing people and I’m so blessed to show with so many other Clydesdale families.”

When he’s not in school, Masters spends a great portion of his time on the farm.

While the hours are long, they’re worth it, he added.

“The average day for me depends on whether it's a horse show day or not,” Masters said. “When I stay at the farm to help with morning chores, I am up at 6 a.m. to go feed them. We move them to pastures and clean their stalls. When I am not in school, I like to check on them throughout the day. Then the night feed is around 7-9 p.m. We bring them back to their stalls. Make sure they have hay for the night, feed them their specialty diet, and make sure they have water. They are very social. They like for you to spend time with them as well. In 20-30 years, I can still see myself being involved with the Clydesdales.”

Amanda Masters said that seeing her son throw himself into his passion has brought her joy.

After all, he’s doing exactly what she’d hoped any of her children would.

“We have always told our kids that seeing them do something they love, something they pour their heart into and thrive (at) is such a reward to us parents,” Amanda Masters said. “It makes all the early mornings, late nights and minimal sleep worth it. He has such a strong work ethic. Caring for the Clydesdales is tough work. It is an everyday chore, no matter what the weather is like outside. Will always manages to make sure his studies are taken care of (and) he plays on the Wright City High baseball team, does marching, jazz, and concert band, and works part-time. (He does it) all while making sure he is available to help care for the horses.  His hard work makes us so proud.”