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FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE SIDELINES MAY 2011 63

writing and so I would love to write a book someday. Whether that will be a novel or a book on theology, I am not completely sure yet. 

Sidelines: What do you do when you aren’t riding?

BE: I love to read. Jane Austen’s my girl! I also love to sing. This has been a passion of mine forever. I get that from my mother and grandfather. My brother is a junior golfer and so on the weekends that I am not showing, I am usually at the golf course. 

Sidelines: You’ve only been showing for four years, but do you have a moment that sticks out in your life?

BE: When I was showing in the pre-children’s, I showed in the Classic Company’s National Equitation Final. They do this every year on one of the Atlanta Fall Classic weekends. We show at night in the huge covered ring at the International Horse Park. This nighttime showing is so different from showing in the day; and being in Atlanta in the Fall, it is usually very cold. Despite this, everyone who attends the show knows that this is always a very special event. The courses have always been very elaborate and well thought through. I have always loved the vibe of that event; it was something that always kept me on my toes and challenged me with my riding. 

Sidelines: Who are your equestrian idols?

BE: Defnitely my trainer Brad. When he sees a student he sees a whole person, and his approach to training is not just equipping his kids to ride horses well. If I have a sour attitude, I am off the horse. I admire him for this because it shows his passion for the well-being and character of his students. Hayley Barnhill has also been infuential in my riding career. Her winning the Maclay last fall gives me hope that someday I will be able to do the same. 

Sidelines: Describe yourself in 10 words or less.

BE: Committed, passionate, sometimes headstrong, hard-working. I love family, people and horses.