WIHS Leaderboard Spotlight: Equitation—East   

Rider: Aedan Mooney 
Age: 18  
Hometown: Golden, CO  
Class/Division: Equitation, Hunter Derbies, Junior Hunters, Junior Jumpers 
Trainers: Val Renihan, Findlay’s Ridge, Indianapolis, IN, and Brannon Mooney, Capall Glen Equestrian, Golden, CO  
Horse: Astro De Ravel “Finn,” 10, Selle Francais gelding, owned by Olivia Robertson  

Question – As this is your last year as a junior, looking back, is there something you would tell your younger self before your first big equitation class or final?     

Answer – I remember being extremely nervous at my first big equitation final, so I would tell my younger self to take a deep breath and have fun! 
   

Q – What are your goals for collegiate riding at Southern Methodist University? 

A – At SMU, I want to challenge myself to adjust to different types of horses quickly, give them the best ride I can, and be a great team player.  

Q – Have you been to WIHS as a rider or spectator, or is this your first time?

A – I haven’t been to WIHS before but I’m excited to be able to compete with the top equitation riders and watch the best riders in the nation.  

Q – Do you have a routine for a big equitation class, and if so, what’s the one thing you can’t skip?  

A – I usually walk the course with my trainers and get a hack lesson in before I go. I watch a handful of rounds, but I try to stay away from the ring as much as possible, so I don’t think about it too much. I usually find a place alone where I can either call my mom or listen to music, which is something I can’t skip!  

Q – If you weren’t competing in equitation, hunters, and jumpers, what other equestrian sport appeals to you?   

A – I would love to try reining! I have dabbled in it a little and I really enjoyed it.   

Q – Are there any riders you look up to or admire?   

A – I look up to many national and international riders including McLain Ward, Laura Kraut, Beezie Madden, and Hunter Holloway. I find it so educational watching the top riders compete and train.  

Q – What three words would you use to describe your horse? 
  
A – Talented, dorky, and unforgettable.  

Q – How to do unwind and relax with your horse(s) when you’re not at shows?   

A – I love going on trails, hanging out with them in their stalls, and taking them to graze.  

Q – Do you have a favorite equitation test?  

A – My favorite test would be either a halt or simple change of lead in the middle of a line. We have practiced this a ton at home with my trainer, Val Renihan.   

Q – Biggest or most memorable win? 
 
A – My biggest win with Finn has been winning the Maclay at Devon this year. It was my first trip to the Devon Horse Show, and I was very proud to come away with a win.  

Written By: Katie Grandelli, WIHS Communications and Marketing Intern