Thoroughbred Incentive Program June Youth Ambassador
Meet Carley Allington!
Photo by Laekin Hicks
T.I.P. presents the June featured Youth Ambassador: Carley Allington. Carley, 19, is from Indiana. Carley and her Thoroughbred, Louie, currently participate in Show Jumping. Carley also has experience riding Eventing, Hunters and Western.
Carley Allington (18, IN)
Horse
- Registered Jockey Club Name: Exciting Band
- Show Name: Lovin Him is Red
- Barn Name: Louie
How did you start riding?
I started riding in March of 2015 when I was 14 years old.
What is your favorite thing about riding/or your horse?
Riding has taught me about the value of hard work, determination and persistence. The life lessons and skills that riding has given me are my favorite parts of riding.
What would you like to do when you are older?
I would like to work in research as an animal scientist and veterinarian eventually.
Tell us your favorite quote and why:
My favorite quote is “You don’t throw a whole life away just because it’s banged up a little” from the Seabiscuit movie because it really expresses what I help my trainer do every day. Not just racehorses, but all types of horses are sometimes forgotten when they are injured even though they can recover and be used for something else. I really enjoy helping horses heal and restart their careers. To me every life matters, even a horse that will never be able to be ridden ever again, as long as they are comfortable, they deserve to live out their days in a big green pasture.
What do you think the most important aspects of horsemanship are?
I think the most important aspects of horsemanship are communication. While a lot of things go into a great horse and a great rider, a rider must listen to their horse and tell their horse what they want. It may be difficult to communicate with a 1200 lb animal that doesn’t speak English and the rider has to tell their horse when they give the right answer in order for the horse to know what the right answer is. Without that crucial communication, the horse and rider will never be able to successfully do anything.
More Fun Facts
- How many pets do you have (and what kind)?
I have two dogs, one cat and one horse. I lease my Thoroughbred, Louie, and occasionally show other horses for my coach. - What is your favorite animal (apart from a horse)?
Dogs - What is your favorite color?
Yellow - What is your favorite food?
Pizza - What is something unique about you?
Something unique about me is that I have shown in a wide variety of disciplines including Dressage, Eventing, Hunters, Jumpers and Ranch. - What is one word that your friends would describe you as?
Determined - Other Activities or hobbies:
Stable Assistant, Working Student
What is one thing you would like to tell people about Thoroughbreds or the Thoroughbred Incentive Program?
I would like to encourage people to look into owning a Thoroughbred because they are incredibly versatile.
What are your goals for your horse in 2020?
My goal for 2020 is for Louie and me is to have fun and enjoy the year. I am not shooting to move up levels or win shows because I just want to focus on enjoying the time I get to spend with my horses.
Anything else you would like to share?
I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science with a concentration in Bioscience at Purdue University. I am also the non-riding representative for the Purdue Equestrian Team!
Photo courtesy of Carley Allington
