“For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” (James 1:3). The hay crunched under my feet, the smell of dust and manure filled my nose. It had been a cruel Texas summer, but on this day, the sweat that dripped from my back was of little concern. After weeks of begging my dad to take me on a pony ride, he finally obliged, and in the summer of 2011, I was mounted on a miniature Shetland pony named Sparky. On hot summer camp days, I fondly remember running through the grass fields, ignoring my mother who waited to pick me up; the barn was my home, and I never wanted to leave. Immersing myself in the sport, I have come to understand that each ride is a dialogue, a silent exchange of trust and communication that transcends language barriers. I truly believe that riding is not simply a sport I pursue, but a lifestyle that defines me. Perhaps one of my most defining moments was my concussion during the spring of 2023; once my beloved mare was no longer equipped for the junior hunter job, I was further determined to pursue my Junior Hunter Finals dreams. One moment it was nearly in my grasp, the next, I was back at square one.
This is a challenge that I believe has shaped me into the rider and young woman I am today. I learned the importance of endurance, persistence, resilience, and most importantly, to trust in God and His plan. I did not allow myself to drown in self-pity, but rather focused on my rehabilitation and made the following summer my comeback. I spent hours upon hours in the 100 degree heat, committed to bettering myself and my baby green who taught me as much as I taught him. With persistence and countless successes and defeats, I was able to encourage his growth, producing a prosperous performance hunter. Consequently, my ride benefited immensely, allowing me to perform at a level I had once pursued so passionately. I currently train under Kalli Smith out of Monarch Stables in Buda, Texas. My recent accomplishments include:
– 2023 GSEC Autumn Classic: Older Children’s Equitation Champion
– 2023 THJA Children’s Equitation: 4th place
– 2024 WEC II: 4th place Novice Jumper Classic, 4th place NHS Hamel Medal
– 2024 WEC III: 3rd place schooling jumper, 4th place NHS Hamel Medal
– 2024 GSEC Winter Series: 3rd place NCEA Medal, 4th place Modified Jumpers, 2nd place NHS Hamel Medal, winner of THIS Medal
– Qualified for 2024 NHS Hamel Finals
– Qualified for 2024 Hunt Seat Medal Finals
My resilience and determination extend beyond the arena; I attend Georgetown High School daily, maintaining a 4.9 GPA enrolled in only advanced placement classes. I am a member of the Mu Alpha Theta Club Math Honor Society, National Honor Society, and the Debate Team. Attending a traditional public school whilst pursuing collegiate goals underscores the extreme importance of time management, responsibility, and self-advocacy. Prior to my junior year, I flourished as a starting player of the varsity tennis team, teaching me how to handle performance pressure as well as the value of teamwork. This experience highlights the value I will bring to any team, illustrating the importance of responsibility and positivity to me on and off of the saddle.
Riding has taught me invaluable lessons that extend far beyond the saddle, teaching me to approach challenges with courage and resilience, knowing that true growth often lies on the other side of adversity. I believe that my unique experiences in various settings and situations have prepared me for the challenges that come with committing to a collegiate program. Despite the challenges I have encountered as I continue to pursue this sport, I have no doubt that they will continue to foster my unwavering passion for years to come.
~ Hannah Sprague