I was hooked on horses from the time I rode my first pony, Rosebud, around a circle at the local farm festival. I signed up for lessons as soon as I could at age 6 and trained first at Oakridge Riding Club and now at Elvenstar Farms with Kay Altheuser and Becky Abeita. The barn is my happy place.
My competition highlights include winning the SCHSA 13+ Medal and earning reserve champion for the LAHJA Bronze medal. I was year-end high point winner for both Hunter and Equitation with LAHJA, SCHSA and the Gold Coast series. I was a finalist for the PCHA and IEL medal finals and qualified for the CPHA medal final. I look forward to accomplishing even more at this year’s shows.
I’m currently a sophomore at Royal High School, maintaining straight A’s with a GPA of 4.2; this includes 2 AP courses and 4 Honors courses. I have played Varsity Girls Lacrosse since Freshman year and am a starting midfielder and a top scorer as well as a leader in assists and ground ball recoveries. I am also involved in several community, work, and volunteer activities.
Riding horses is my passion. Joining an NCEA Equestrian Team is my dream. I want to continue my riding journey by being a part of a competitive team with a coach that loves this sport as much as I do. I am eternally grateful for the ways that the ups and downs (literally) of this sport has shaped me into a better and stronger person who can not only face challenges but also sometimes come out on top.
~ Kate Clouser