Thoroughbred Incentive Program Youth Ambassador

Meet November’s ambassador Katie Hanson!

Photo courtesy of Katie Hanson

Katie Hanson (16, Georgia) and her horse Medowrella, or Ellie, compete together in eventing. When asked how Katie began riding she told us, “When I was five years old my grandmother gave me riding lessons for my birthday, and ever since then I have been riding.”

Katie adopted Ellie a few years ago. Ellie is an off the track Thoroughbred with some former dressage training. She was about ten years old when Katie first got Ellie. Katie told us that Ellie is her first Thoroughbred and she is proud to own such a wonderful horse. “Ellie is a great riding partner. I enjoy every moment I spend with her,” she told us in her 2015 application for Young Rider of the Year.

When Katie was asked what her favorite thing about riding she responded, “I love the thrill of riding, the feeling you get from jumping, and the feeling of trust and commitment that you get from riding your horse.”

Alongside riding, Katie also participates in various activities through 4-H: livestock judging, land judging, and horse club. Katie also participates in drama club.

Q: As one of our first youth ambassadors, with the mission to represent our program and the Thoroughbred breed, what is one thing you would like to tell people about Thoroughbreds or the Thoroughbred Incentive Program?

A: First I would love to spread how amazing the breed is in itself, how versatile the Thoroughbred breed is and what they are capable of. Second, I would love to try to get more shows on board with the TIP classes and get more local people with Thoroughbreds to join TIP.

Fun Facts

What do you want to be or do when you grow up?
I want to be a large animal vet or an equine vet

How many pets do you have and what kind?
I have 6 (if you count Ellie). I have 1 cat, 1 dog, and 3 turtles.

What is your favorite animal (besides a horse)?
Wolves

Favorite Color:
Green

Favorite Food:
Steak &  Green Beans

What is something unique about you?
I’m great at special effects makeup and I love animals

What is one word that your friends would describe you as?
Energetic

Photo courtesy of Katie Hanson

The Thoroughbred Incentive Program was created by The Jockey Club to encourage second careers for Thoroughbreds when their racing days are over. The T.I.P. sponsors Thoroughbred-only classes and high point awards as well as Performance Awards, special year-end awards specifically for Thoroughbreds. The T.I.P. also recognizes non-competing Thoroughbreds through its Young Rider program as well as a special award for Thoroughbreds in careers such as therapy horses or other non-profit outlets.

To learn more about the Thoroughbred Incentive Program, please visit the organization’s website.