Hello, my name is Addison Leonard, and I am a rising Junior from Hilliard, Ohio. I am passionate about riding, especially Western Horsemanship. When I was six years old, my parents took me on a trail ride at Marmon Valley, and it was the best day ever. This was my first time grooming a horse, feeding it treats and riding in the woods. From that moment on I was obsessed with anything related to horses. This obsession has continued to fuel my passion for riding and my competitive nature. I am so thankful that my parents gave me riding lesson at the young age of seven and have continued to support me in this sport.
I have been training with Jessica Daniels at JD Show Horses in Delaware, Ohio since 2020. I am currently competing on the AQHA show circuit in the Youth 14-18 Horsemanship, Trail, Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle and Equitation classes. Some of my recent competition highlights include:
● AQHA – AQHYA World Championship Show – Reserve World Champion Level 1 14-18 Hunter Under Saddle
● AQHA – AQHYA World Championship Show – Top 10 Level 3 14-18 Hunter Under Saddle
● AQHA – AQHYA World Championship Show – Top 10 Level 1 14-18 Western Pleasure
● 2025 NOQHA Summer Six Pack Level 1 Youth All-Around High Point
● 2025 NOQHA Summer Six Pack June Show – Reserve Circuit Champion Level1 Youth Horsemanship
● 2025 Spring University of Georgia College Prep Clinic – Teamwork Award
● 2024 Level 1 East Championship Show – Top 10 Rookie Youth Horsemanship
Along with AQHA I have also competed in YEDA. Catch riding in YEDA significantly boosted my adaptability as a rider, because I quickly learned to adjust to different horses, each with unique temperaments and training levels. This experience enhances my problem solving skills, as I learned to effectively communicate with unfamiliar horses, which strengthens my overall Horsemanship. YEDA catch riding broadens my skill set and prepares me for various challenges with different horses. Some of my recent highlights include:
● 2025 Senior High Sapphire Horsemanship Team National Champion
● 2025 Senior High Sapphire Horsemanship 6th Place
● 2025 Concord Equestrian Team Member YEDA Reserve National Champions
I am attending Hilliard Darby High School in Hilliard, Ohio and I’m very dedicated and focused on my academics. I currently have a 3.85 GPA and I’m looking forward to continuing to take honors classes and add three AP classes to my schedule this year. When I am not in the show pen or at the barn, I love playing basketball for my high school, hanging out with my friends in downtown Hilliard, throwing the ball with my two dogs Brinley and Oakley and spending time with my family.
Having the opportunity to compete at the collegiate level would be the affirmation of countless hours and commitment I’ve put into my equestrian career as a youth rider. My passion lies in discovering the ideal university that not only aligns with my academics’ goals but also offers an amazing opportunity to ride for a competitive equestrian team. I am very grateful for the deep effect equestrian sport has had on my personal growth, as it has promoted my maturity and independence, created patience and given me a huge work ethic. I cannot wait to fully committee myself to my future team by contributing my skills and dedication to their continued success.
~ Addison Leonard