KAT’S KORNER 7 Ques�ons

KORNERKORNER KATS KATS 7 Questions

with Katfrom Instagram KatFuqua01

Kat with Gargarin aka Giggles at 2022 WEF. Photo by Anne Gittins

1How do you stay confident when you are not making much progress?

-@lizmcdonald Anytime when I’m starting something new for the first few days/weeks it feels challenging, and even though I’m working hard I don’t feel as though I’m improving. When I started dressage it was hard for me to get the correct leg placement, and even to do a full test of sitting trot. Everyone starts somewhere and when something is new it’s going to take a while to get down, especially when you’re working with a live animal who doesn’t speak your language. I just try to be patient and keep working hard towards my goal even when I don’t feel a difference. Just know in your mind you can do it if you put your mind to it.

@catemeyer01 The school I go to I have been going to since Pre-K. When I started showing and had to start missing school I was in 1st Grade. My mom explained to them that I’m very competitive and it’s my passion, they’ve always been extremely supportive of me and help me when I need to catch up on work from the days that I’ve missed. I try to spend a lot of time with my school friends and friends that don’t ride horses to have a balance. It’s important for your mental Health to have a break from your sport and have fun with friends!

- @sth.dressage Before I show I make sure to watch a few people before I go, to make sure I have a plan for my course or test. It’s important for me to do this because I want to go in the ring confident with my plan. I try not to think so much about winning, more just focusing on each movement or jump individually.

@claire.friedlander Yes, definitely want to go Pro in the future I’m just not sure how soon after my years as a Junior.

2How do you balance everything? (School, Mental health, social-life)

What’s your mental prep before showing?

Do you want to go pro in the Future? What started your interest in horses?

What’s your favourite thing about the sport?

2021 National Junior Hunter Championship, Consent. Photo by Phelps Media

USDF Silver Medalist at FEI PSG Open, scoring 69.211% at the Global Adequan Dressage Festival. Photo by Susan Stickle

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- isabella.eqqq My parents were both Grand Prix Dressage riders so I grew up into a riding family. My mom got my Miniature Pony “Butter Cup ” for my 1st birthday. She held me up on her while he was lead around. So from 1-5 years old I learned to ride on her and loved it. I started seriously showing at six. I went to my first WEF and since then it’s been my passion and favorite thing to do!

emilywilson.eq My favorite thing about the sport is being able to have such a strong bond and trust with my horses. I know my horses trust me and I trust them. It’s such a cool feeling to feel like you can understand them.

-anushkachavda_eq Yes! 3-4 days a week I do an 8 minutes glute and an 8 minute ab workout. I found both workout videos on YouTube. I also try to do a mile on the elliptical 4 times a week.

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Do you have a workout routine outside of riding?7

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