Growing up, all I ever wanted to do was ride horses. I competed in a few different sports such as soccer, softball, and cheer, but nothing soothed the itch for horses. In 2020, I took my first lesson, which turned into weekly lessons with occasional shows, which then evolved into buying my own horse and riding every day. I joined a competitive showing barn in 2024, and have been consistently showing every month since then. I currently train with Kris Di Carlo and Julie Harrington at Kris Di Carlo Equestrian in Bradenton, FL. Some of my recent highlight competition achievements include:
● Qualified for the 2026 NCEA Medal Finals
● Multiple 3’3 NHS Medal wins and placings
● Multiple 3’3 Huntseat Medal wins and placings
● Multiple 3’3 Jumpseat Medal wins and placings
● 6th overall in the Zone 4 12-14 Hunter Equitation
● 3 time Back-to-back Champion in the 12-14 Equitation at World Equestrian Center
● 2025 EAP Clinic with Callan Solem
I am a rising junior (Class of 2028) at Florida Virtual High School, where I maintain a 3.6 GPA and take AP and honors classes. Having the opportunity to ride at the collegiate level would confirm all of the time and effort I have put into my equestrian youth career. I am very passionate about finding the right university and having the opportunity to ride for an NCEA Equestrian Team. I’m truly blessed by the equestrian sport because of the way it has matured me, taught me patience, and most of all, taught me a strong work ethic.
~ Marli McMullen