Rider Status: Junior  

Hometown: Valdosta, GA 

Trainer: Traci Weston

• As a horsewoman, I am most proud of the progress I’ve made with my first pony, Tina Turner, because she’s won two Horse of the Year awards and I got her when I was 5 and she was a 2-year-old cow pony. 
• As a horsewoman, I would most like to improve on my knowledge of horse management. 

I’d be lost without spurs in my ring bag (I always lose them and always need them) and my phone in my tack trunk (my trainer always makes me put it away in there so I can focus!).

I think the biggest misconception about our sport is the way everyone thinks the horses do all the work, but it’s actually the connection between the horse and rider that makes it special. 

My best piece of advice for young riders is try your best and have fun—that’s what it’s all about. 

I cope with pressure in the show ring by making a plan before I go in and taking deep breaths.

When I’m nervous at a show, I tell myself that it’s just sticks that I’m jumping. 

My favorite book is Harry Potter. 

The part of riding I struggle most with is looking ahead to where I’m going in the course. 

I’m a sucker for mares that jump really well. 

On Mondays, you’ll find me sleeping in and then doing school all day. 

I sometimes wish I had the time to learn how to play soccer.

I’m afraid of disappointing those around me.

The horse person I most admire is Beezie Madden because she has had such a long lasting career and so many accomplishments. 

Something I say ten times a day is “it’s hot!” (I live in Georgia). 

One of my greatest show ring victories was getting first and second at the HITS derby. 

Riding ponies is the best because it’s so much fun getting to know all their different personalities and how unique they are. 

One of the best horse names I’ve ever heard is my pony’s name, Tina Turner, because it suits her so well. Her mane, her legs, and her personality. 

My absolute favorite show is Pony Finals because my friends are all there and I get to spend time with them.  

My motto is  Teamwork makes the dream work.

*This story was originally published in the August 2021 issue of The Plaid Horse. Click here to read it now and subscribe for issues delivered straight to your door!