Growing up, horses were always a significant part of my life. Whether it was spending long days on the trail, working with cattle, or competing in extreme trail events, horses were at the center of my world. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of college that I decided to step out of my comfort zone and try out for the Mississippi State University IHSA Equestrian Team.
Joining the team turned out to be one of the most meaningful experiences of my college career. Our coach, Ashley Glenn, was not just focused on creating a competitive team; she was building a program based on accountability, resilience, and character. She constantly reminded us to ride with purpose and let our work speak for itself.
In our first season, we came close to winning our region but fell short. Despite not advancing as a team, several teammates qualified individually, which inspired me to push harder. The following season, my goal was clear: Nationals. The taste of postseason competition motivated us to train harder and work towards a common goal as a team.
After a season of hard work, we finally won the IHSA Region 2 Championship, earning a spot at the NRHA/IHSA Western Semifinals. Although we just missed out on qualifying as a team for Nationals, the disappointment only fueled our determination.
By my senior year, our team had a strong sense of purpose and unity. We won Regionals again, with six riders qualifying individually for Semifinals. The dedication and hard work we put in, including practicing twice a day, led us to achieve our goal of qualifying for the IHSA National Championship for the first time in program history.
At Nationals, the pressure was intense, but we remained composed and focused. Despite facing setbacks, we rallied together and delivered strong performances. In the end, we finished third, securing a ticket to Nationals and achieving a milestone for our team.
The experience of competing at Nationals was unforgettable. We celebrated not just our placings but also the sportsmanship awards our coach received. Finishing fourth in the nation was a remarkable achievement, especially considering the competition we faced.
As a senior, Nationals was a bittersweet moment, filled with tears of joy, pride, and the realization that it was the end of an era. Our coach’s final season made the accomplishment even more meaningful, as we wanted to make her proud.
Being part of a history-making team taught me valuable lessons about grit, selflessness, and character. Beyond the titles, it’s the people and the journey that matter the most. And the most important lesson I learned from this experience is to never stop riding.