What are your goals for your junior career?
I want to do my first U25 before I age out of juniors and become an amateur. I also want to do well at JHF and eventually qualify for the Maclay Finals once I have an equitation horse.
Do you plan to go professional?
Definitely not.
Have you suffered any injuries? How did you recover?
No, luckily I haven’t had any major injuries.
What’s your mental process?
I’m definitely a nervous rider, so on show mornings, I have to really lock in and block everything else out. I try to focus on the horse I’m riding rather than the pressure of the competition.
What’s your course-walking routine?
I try to get there about 15 minutes early so I can learn my course and the striding before meeting with my trainer. I always walk the jump-off at least twice before leaving the ring.
Favorite horse and rider gear?
For myself, definitely my air vest. For my horse, I’d say the bit—it’s so customizable, and it’s amazing how much of a difference it can make in how a horse goes.
Favorite exercises to do with your horses?
Setting a line without a set stride count and testing the range—seeing how few or how many strides I can get. It really helps with adjustability.
How do you balance competing with school?
It’s definitely one of the hardest parts of being competitive in this sport—you have to be all in or all out. My school and I communicate a lot, and I work with tutors while I’m in Wellington to stay on top of things.
How do you fuel yourself? Do you recommend it to young riders?
I mostly just drink coffee all day so I don’t feel sick. I try to eat later in the day when I’m done riding, but in the morning, I keep it light.
What horse has impacted your career most significantly?
Definitely my current horse, Col de Knolton. He’s such a confidence builder and has taught me so much.
Where do you currently ride, and why do you like it?
I ride with an independent trainer, and I feel like I’ve learned so much in such a short time. The knowledge he provides is so useful.
