Q: When did you start horseback riding?

A: I started riding horses when I was four years old. My mom took me to ride for my fourth birthday.

Q:  What made you want to horseback ride?

A: Once I rode for the first time, I was hooked. I could not believe how gentle the horse I rode was. I felt like we had an instant connection.

Q: Why has horseback riding been such a big part of your life?

A: Horses have been such a part of my life because my mom and my uncle have supported me and they both have had horses and we have a family connection with them.

Q: What are some of the pros and cons?

A: Some of the pros are how we rewarding it is when you train and see the progress in the show pen. It’s amazing to know how much a horse can learn and care about their rider. You get to meet people all over the world. Some cons are missing time with family and friends when you are away competing.

Q: How many horses have you had and what are their names?

A: I have owned three horses. My first horse was named Foxy. Once I outgrew her, I had a beautiful mare named Reba. Unexpectedly, Reba passed away and I’m now own a gelding named Lazy.

Q:  Which one was your favorite and what are some of the different things about each one of them?

A: Foxy, my first horse, was very kind and gentle. She took me to my first world show at age 11. Then, there was Reba. She [was] very fancy and strong minded, but she loved me and she loved to show. Currently, I own Lazy. He is very laid back and willing to learn.

Q: Have you been in any big competitions?

A: I’ve competed at the national level with all of my horses. I just competed at the all American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio, which is the largest breed show in the world. I am training for the Novice World Show to be held in May in Oklahoma. I have also been to Virginia [and] North Carolina for national competitions with Reba.

Q: What are you ranked or what have you been ranked before?

A: I have been ranked sixth in the nation in 2016 and first in Indiana with Reba. I have only owned Lazy for four months, and we are ranked second in Indiana and second in Illinois and are waiting for national rankings.

Q: Where have you trained before and where do you train now?

A: I have trained in Warsaw and Lafayette, Ind. in the past. Currently, I train under the guidance of Kelly Jadin Performance Horses in Peotone, Ill.

Q: What type of style do you compete in at your competitions?

A: I compete with the American Quarter Horse Association in the all around events. I ride both English and Western.