Lauren Padilla

As a sophomore from Palos Verdes Estates, California, I have spent the past nine years competing on the A circuit and developing a versatile skill set across hunters, jumpers, and equitation. I’ve had the privilege of training under some of the industry’s top professionals, including Traci and Carlton Brooks, Mike and Christa Endicott, and my current trainer Paige Dendiu of Highland Farms. Their diverse training approaches have helped shape me into a confident, adaptable, and well-rounded competitor.

 

I began riding at the age of five, and my competitive journey has taken me from winning Grand Pony Champion at Capital Challenge to representing Zone 10 in the North American Youth Championships, where I helped my team earn the silver medal in the 1.30m Pre-Juniors. My equitation success includes a Reserve Championship in the 14–15 age group at the 2024 National Horse Show placing 1st over fences and 5th on the flat and finishing 3rd in the PCHA Medal Finals. I’ve earned multiple wins in the Dover and NHS Medals at premier venues such as Desert Circuit and Blenheim and have produced top results in 1.35m jumper classics across the West Coast circuit.

 

Currently, I show two horses: Dior P Z, my jumper partner with whom I’ll be returning to NAYC this summer, and Classified, a recently imported 7-year-old I’m bringing along as my new equitation horse. I also continue to gain valuable experience catch riding hunters and equitation horses for other trainers and owners.

 

Beyond the show ring, I am a dedicated student at Palos Verdes High School, maintaining a 3.8 weighted GPA. I’m also committed to giving back through my involvement in National Charity League, where I volunteer with organizations such as Manes for Movement and Harbor Interfaith. My family and I are actively involved with Homes of Hope, a cause close to my heart that builds homes for families in Mexico.

 

I believe that college equestrian is the perfect next step for me — combining my love for high-level competition with a team-oriented atmosphere. I thrive under pressure, love the challenge of catch riding, and bring a strong sense of sportsmanship, dependability, and empathy to every team I’m part of. I look forward to contributing both in and out of the arena and hope to ride for a Division I program where I can continue to grow as both a rider and a person.