My name is Marian Ehlers, and I have dreamed of representing my school in the NCEA since I was 12-years-old. As a catch rider, I have experience on over one hundred horses and feel more confident inside the show ring than anywhere else in the world. This year, my goals are to qualify for multiple national finals and championships as well as progress in dressage. My long-term goal is to be an active member in the elite show jumping community.
I am a Junior at Summit High School in Bend, Oregon, and aspire for academic excellence. Participation in school sports, clubs and community is a large part of my identity. As a working student at horse shows, I assist with early morning warm-ups, showing sales horses, scheduling, sign-ups, grain, and work closely with our vets and grooms. I love my active schedule and do my best to stay on top of my responsibilities.
I am incredibly grateful for all of the opportunities I have been given over the years. My catch riding career has taught me that I can learn from every horse I hop on. Thanks to the guidance of my incredible trainers, I am described as “coachable” and am inspired to grow as an athlete. Executing accurate tracks and measuring my distances skillfully gives me the self-confidence and assurance I need to be competitive. I’m a gamer. Let’s do this!
~ Marian Ehlers