14 SIDELINES OCTOBER 2012
FOR HORSE PEOPLE • ABOUT HORSE PEOPLE
Leighona
Photo by Doug
Wells Photography
By Rebekah Savage
Leighona Bernstein, a Colorado
native, will be a sophomore at Okla-
homa State University this fall. An
accomplished hunter and equitation
rider with a successful junior career
under her belt, Leighona rode on the
college’s equestrian team last year.
After a summer spent catch riding,
Leighona will head back to Oklahoma
State where she’ll ride on the team
again and study International Agri-
cultural Economics with a Spanish
minor. Sidelines caught up with the
Colorado rider to learn more about
life in the Centennial State.
What is it like to ride for the
Oklahoma State equestrian
team?
It’s different from what I am used
to on the circuit. We’re grouped to-
gether with the western riders, which
is very different. It’s fun and cool to
be on the team, though.
Where in Colorado are you
from?
I’m from Golden, Colorado, which is at the base of the Rocky
Mountains. I lived in Parker for a few years and Greenwood Vil-
lage for 10 years, but spent my high school years in Golden.
How did your riding career begin?
My mom signed me up when I was four years old and I haven’t
gotten off a horse since then! The frst place I rode at was the
Arapaho Riding Club. My frst real trainer was Debbie Burkman. I
started riding with her during the second year of my riding career.
I rode with her for eight years. Then I rode with Tracye Ferguson.
Which horse has been your favorite to ride?
My junior hunter, Tigger. We had him for three years. He was
my baby and I miss him a lot.
What is your biggest riding accomplishment?
Winning second place at the Zone 8 Maclay Championships. I
rode Mr. Knightley, also known as Tobey around the barn.
How do you balance school and riding?
I have always communicated with my teachers. I do homework
on my way to shows.
What is your favorite show to compete in?
The Colorado Summer Circuit. The competition is local and
low key. The show is easy access for competitors, well run and
gives a small zone an opportunity to compete with big names. My
friends are at the show and we used to run around the grounds
when we were younger.
When you aren’t riding, what do you do in your spare
time?
I live at the base of the Rocky Mountains and I love kayaking. I
workout a lot and listen to music.
What is your favorite type of music to listen to?
My iPod is crazy, I basically listen to everything!
What other fun things can you do in Colorado?
My mom and I go out to eat a lot. Lower downtown is a favorite
place to go. It’s a good drive to downtown. Strings, a restaurant
downtown, is one of my favorites. You can make your own des-
sert. I’ve been going there since I was young. I also have a weak-
ness for designer jeans! I love to shop at Nordstrom’s. I’m also a
Colorado sporting team fan. My Dad and I attend Rockies games.
They’re a lot of fun!
e
Leighona and her
junior hunter Bellagio
Photo by Franklin Gibbs