National Spotlight: Fuqua Jumps.. 2018 National Horse Show
National Spotlight: Fuqua Jumps Junior Hunters at 2018 National Horse Show
EQUINIUM SPORTS _ Lexington, Kentucky (December 13, 2018) - Jumping the Junior Hunter divisions are quickly becoming Kat Fuqua's forte. After years of success in the Pony Hunters, Fuqua has been raising the bar in her show career by stepping up to the larger jumps, more technical courses, and of course, the full size horses of the Juniors. In early November she added another feather to her show cap with ribbons and closing out another first in her equestrian resume, showing the Juniors at the prestigious National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky.
Riding the momentum following wins during the indoor circuit at the Washington International Horse Show, Fuqua took her two Junior Hunter mounts to respectable finishes against some of the best combinations in the nation. Riding in the 15 and Under Junior Hunter classes, recently 11-year-old Fuqua finished 3rd and 8th with her unflappable Calvaro, known around the barn as Elmo. Because of a bit of extra spring in his step, her long-time favorite RS Levitation, aka Jett, finished out of the ribbons but that doesn't keep him from being the apple of Fuqua's eye.
"The National Horse Show was a lot like the Washington International Horse Show," said Fuqua. "The jumps were amazing and really exciting, and the set up and arenas were really pretty with the flowers and decorations. I think its the prettiest horse show I've ever seen. Elmo was just fantastic, he didn't mind the atmosphere or any of the exciting jumps. He finished 3rd in the Junior Hunter Over Fences and 8th in the Stake."
Fuqua, who has topped Junior Hunter fields since showing the Junior 3'6" division last year at just 9-years-old, was thrilled to have qualified for the prestigious national championship, which only accepts the top ranked 15 horse & rider combinations in the country. "It was a big deal for me to compete in this class, the top Junior Hunter class in the country," said Fuqua. "It was great experience for both the horses and for me."
Kat Fuqua's passion for horses is reflected not only in her highly decorated Pony Hunter and Junior Hunter rider results, but also in the joy and dedication she shows each time she swings into the saddle. Based out of Atlanta, Georgia and under the guidance of trainer Michael Newman, every aspect of Fuqua's riding, training, and show career reflects a unique ardor for equines and horse sport. She balances her equestrian lifestyle with attendance as a full time 5th grade student and takes pride in developing alongside her horses. In addition to riding, Kat enjoys spending time with her school friends and her favorite subject is French.
