The first time I got on a horse was when I was 3 years old and my Grandpa snuck me out to join my older brothers on a trail ride at his friend’s farm and ever since then I have been obsessed with riding. I first started formal lessons at Stoneridge Farm in the 1st grade. I competed for Stoneridge for about 4 years before I started to train with Pam Baker. I have been training with Ms. Baker on the A and AA circuits for around 7 years and was her working student during the Florida circuit last winter. I am currently competing in the 3’6” Junior Hunter Division and competing in 3’6” and 3’3” Junior Equitation divisions. Some highlights from my recent competitions are:
- Qualified for 2022 and 2023 USEF National Junior Hunter Finals
- Qualified for Pennsylvania National Horse Show for 2021 and 2022
- Qualified for USHJA/NCEA 3’3” Junior Hunt Seat Medal Finals
- 1st place in ASPCA Horsemanship Maclay Medal at Winston Culpeper HITS (3’6”)
- 1st place in VHSA Hunter Seat Medal – Flat at Constitution Classic Culpeper
- 1st place in NCEA Junior Hunt Seat Medal at Cavalier Classic Culpeper HITS (3’3”)
- 1st place in Junior Hunter Classic at Constitution Classic HITS (3’6”)
- 2021 WCHR Zone 3 Champion for 3’3” Junior Hunter
I am currently a Junior at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School – a college-prep Episcopalian school in Alexandria, VA – and am very focused on my academics. I maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.48 and have taken Honors classes. When I am not showing, I assist the athletic trainers at my school, participate in school activities, and spend time fly fishing with my family. I also enjoy volunteering in the community and am working towards a Service Learning Distinction Award at my school. My work with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has been especially rewarding as I was able to earn a spot in the Student of the Year Hall of Fame in 2022.
It would be amazing if I had the opportunity to ride at the collegiate level and to see all the years of hard work put into my career pay off. I am passionate about finding the right college for me and having the opportunity to ride for an NCAA Equestrian Team would be an amazing opportunity. I am blessed to have had all the opportunities that I’ve had. Riding has helped me navigate my life, taught me responsibility and independence, and most importantly helped me develop a strong work ethic. I am excited to commit myself to my future team!
~ Abigail Felsenthal