Favorite Quote: “A lovely horse is always an experience…it is an emotional experience of the kind that is spoiled by words” ~ Beryl Markham
Rebekah Anderson nominated her twelve-year-old daughter, Eva Anderson, writing in her nomination letter, “Eva exemplifies everything you could ask for in a horse girl.” Eva currently rides with trainer Heather Hill.
With a humble entrance into the equestrian world, Rebekah states the financial aspect of riding was a challenge initially; however, Eva was not discouraged when her barn mates were getting their very own ponies. “She was excited just to ride lesson horses and thanked anyone for an opportunity to care for or ride their horses,” Rebekah explains. Eva has worked countless hours as a tacker to earn privileges. Her desire to be a part of and gratitude towards the horse world is evident in the effort she puts forth at the barn.
About eighteen months ago, Eva finally got her own pony- a young, green one who was suddenly partnered with a young rider. According to Eva, this was a challenging time for both her and her pony as she learned to “work with the pony and put her own needs to the side.” Over the last year and a half, this pony has “taught her shows aren’t about winning but growing!”
“The feeling of freedom and the ability to be myself,” is what makes Eva want to ride. Her equine partners are Bandit and Lilly, both Welsh ponies. A recent success they’ve achieved is competing at IEA regionals. In fact, Eva considers her biggest accomplishment thus far as being the High Point Rider on the flat (out of all middle school riders) for the IEA zone.
Sadly, as she outgrows her first pony, a short-term goal of Eva’s is to find a horse she connects with and continues to grow in her riding. Her long-term goal is to ride in a big equitation class in a Grand Prix. In ten years, she hopes to be a professional rider and someone little kids aspire to be. Eva’s favorite quote is one by Beryl Markham: “A lovely horse is always an experience…it is an emotional experience of the kind that is spoiled by words.”
Age:
12
Discipline:
Hunter/Jumper
Hometown:
New Port Richey, FL
Trainer:
Heather hill
School:
River ridge middle school
