Allie Rooney ’16
Sports Editor
Kaitlin is this week’s athlete of the week due to her stellar performance at the Zone 1 Championship Horse Show at Mount Holyoke College on April 5. She placed sixth in New England in the Novice Equitation Division Over Fences, which is a great accomplishment. We sat down with Kaitie and got to know her a bit more about her and her sport.
How many years have you been riding?
15 years.
Do you have a favorite horse?
At Smith, my favorite horse is Mister. He’s chestnut with a star on his forehead. He’s pretty lazy, a bit grumpy, especially when you take him away from his food, and slow. He likes to pretend that he can only move at a snail’s pace, but I can get him to move forward and open up his stride, gallop around a little bit. Once I get him warmed up and motivated, he’s my favorite horse to jump.
What is the team dynamic like?
We are all very supportive of one another. Even if someone has a bad ride at a show, they put it to the side and cheer on the rest of the team. Our coaches, Sue and Lizzy, are both very positive and encouraging; they want each of us to do our best. My teammates are all awesome people and so fun to be around, I can’t wait to be one of their captains next season.
What has been your favorite equestrian moment this year?
We had nine riders, including myself, move up to higher divisions this season, so it was wonderful to watch my teammates compete in their new divisions and take it all in stride. Personally, it was coming in second place at regional finals, which meant I qualified to compete at Zone finals against all the schools in New England, and getting a big group hug from my teammates.
Favorite food?
Homemade spaghetti and meatballs.
Favorite movie?
“The Shawshank Redemption.”
Favorite sporting event?
Non-horse related: I’m a big hockey fan, specifically a Boston Bruins fan, so I’m really pumped for the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Horse-related: Grand Prix show jumping (the World Equestrian games are this summer).
