Varsity Equestrian Spotlight: Ella Sandvig
This week's varsity equestrian team spotlight focuses on junior Ella Sandvig. A co-captain of the Saint Edward's School equestrian team, Sandvig provides a brief background on her history that led to her competing in the equestrian circuit:
ES: I started riding when I was six and a half years old in Temecula, California. I competed locally and in San Diego, receiving top placings in all three rings with multiple horses. I moved to Florida in 2020 and immediately began competing on the East Coast, adapting to the different riding styles. Over the past four years, I have not only held my own in the Equestrian Capital of the World but also earned several champion ribbons in various divisions against international competition. Currently, I compete throughout Florida in the Jumpers and Equitation.
If you are reading on the eNews, click on the headline or read more for a Q&A with Ella.
If you are reading on the eNews, click on the headline or read more for a Q&A with Ella.
Q: Briefly describe your sport and how it works:
ES: Within show jumping, there are three disciplines: Hunters, Jumpers, and Equitation. Hunters judge the horses and riders separately depending on pace, style, and performance out of 100. Equitation is judged on how the rider navigates the horse through a technical course whilst maintaining a certain level of control and distinguished style, also out of 100. The Jumpers are judged on speed with the winning rider having the fastest time and the least rails down winning the class.
Q: How long have you been riding?
ES: 11 years.
Q: Why did you start riding in your specific discipline?
ES: I chose show jumping because it’s ever-changing. No course, horse, or venue is ever the same. You have to adjust and ride differently depending on the course, weather, and horse.
Q: How many days a week do you practice and for how long?
ES: 6 days a week for 3 hours.
Q: Happiest moment in the saddle?
ES: Winning the GSDHJA children's equitation on the flat because I was so proud of the progress my young pony Roulette had made.
Q: Favorite horse, and why?
ES: I love them all... But Elite RV (Barn name: Daphne) because she puts her whole heart into everything she does and is incredibly talented.
Q: Who is your biggest supporter?
ES: My mom has been my biggest supporter since day one. She’s been to every show and almost every lesson while also being invested in the horses themselves. I don’t know where I would be without her.
Q: What is your biggest accomplishment, and why?
ES: Winning USHJA Emerging Athletes Regional Champion because it was a three-day process of being judged on horse care and riding talent with over 25 people aiming for the top spot.
Q: What life lessons have you learned through the sport?
ES: This sport has taught me that there is room to grow no matter if you win or lose. There is always a lesson to be learned.
Q: Why do you love horses so much?
ES: I love horses and my sport because without being able to verbally communicate, you form an unbreakable partnership where you learn together and teach each other new things.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do outside of the barn?
ES: My favorite things to do outside of the barn include reading, hanging out with my close friends, and playing video games.
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