According to the latest equestrian demographics and statistics data in the U.S., 84.5% of equestrians are white. But if Kate Mih noticed that she was in any way different from her fellow competitors when she began riding nine years ago, it didn't deter her. Now 17, Kate can lay claim to a World Champion title won at the 2021 American Ranch Horse Association World Show.
INTRO TO PONIES
Kate first discovered her interest in riding when she attended a Curious Kids Camp. Unfortunately, after her initial introduction, she and her family temporarily moved away from the area of Michigan where they currently reside. Aside from weekly English riding lessons, Kate didn't fully return to the horse lifestyle until they moved back. Her aunt and coach, Char Aardema, was quick to make the reintroduction to horses and to the local 4-H Club once Kate returned.
"When Kate first moved back to Michigan, I had a friend who had a pony that she really wanted someone to show," says Char. Char connected her friend to Kate, and the rest, as they say, was history.
At her first show, Kate and her borrowed pony performed well in every class. She showed that pony for a couple of years, followed by an older POA (Pony of the Americas) that belonged to Char for another two years.
When the older pony began showing signs of arthritis, it was time for Kate to shop for a mount of her own.
During the years before Kate got her pony, Char was instrumental in keeping the spark of Kate's love of horses alive.
Esta historia es de la edición November - December 2022 de Young Rider.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición November - December 2022 de Young Rider.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
A Week in the Life
British equestrian and super-influencer Esme Higgs gives us a peek at what an "average" week looks like in her busy life.
Sparkle & Shine
While spring might mean cool, cloudy days ahead, you can still add some glow to your horse.
CLEVELAND BAY
This rare and beautiful breed does it all, from driving to dressage and endurance.
Longing TO LEASE
Find out if leasing a horse is the right option for you.
Groom Like a PRO
A professional and \"Groom of the Year\" finalist shares her top advice.
HIP TO TOE
Find out what type of belt, jeans and boots best match your western discipline.
A TALL Tale
Select and fit the perfect English tall boots for your type of riding and showing.
The Spotted StaLLion
A nighttime sighting turns up something very rare indeed.
BARREL RACING DREAMS
Our cover star Owen doesn't mind standing out from the crowd when he feels the need for speed.
SHEDDING SEASON
Learn the top shedding tips from the United States Pony Clubs.