I started riding at the age of 5 because I fell in love with horses and saw how much joy it brought my mom. By age 7, I was riding twice a week and counting down the days until I could be back in the saddle. Between the ages of 9 to 11, I lived overseas in Singapore. Even on the other side of the world nothing could keep me away from horses. I continued riding 2-3 times a week at the Singapore Polo Club and tried my hand at Dressage.
At 12, I moved back to Indiana and began training with Richard and Catherine Rinehart and started competing more seriously. I spent a year competing in local shows, then moved up to my first rated show and fell in love with competing. Stepping into the ring and showing what I had learned felt incredible. I have competed in hunters, equitation, and jumpers in six states and several amazing venues including WEC OH, WEC Ocala, GLEF and Kentucky.
When I’m not at the barn, I am at the Park Tudor School, working hard in the classroom to maintain a 3.52 GPA. I am grateful for the opportunity my parents have given me to attend a high-level private school. I value my education just as much as my other activities, which is why I stay active in my school community. I’ve been involved in Model UN since Freshman year, attending multiple conferences, and I am on the club’s board this year. Last year, I also joined the varsity swim team for the first time where I earned a varsity letter. I have been speaking Chinese since the 3rd grade and traveled to Taiwan during my sophomore year. Additionally, I have played the cello since 5th grade.
These experiences help me stay connected, well-rounded, and ready to find the college that will set me up for success in life. Balancing honors (or AP?) classes, extracurriculars, and my riding career can be challenging, but what keeps me motivated is the opportunity to ride for a collegiate team.
Riding on an NCAA Division III or IHSA Varsity team and doing my part to win would mean the world to me. I’ve dreamed of competing in college for years and truly want to find the best team for me. I believe that my skills both in and out of the saddle can come together to help me achieve great things. I look forward to the opportunity to be part of a competitive college team!
~ Emma Cline