MSU freshman Rudy Pohlabeln of Edgewood doesn’t remember the first time he rode a horse, but said he’s probably done so since he was old enough to sit on one by himself. He grew up around horses on the family farm and began competing in western seat competitions when he was nine.
“I chose Western because it is what I grew up riding. My sisters both show as well, and I just followed their footsteps,” he said.
Pohlabeln recently represented MSU at the Intercollegiate Horse Association (IHSA) National Competition in Syracuse, New York, where he placed seventh in his class. Pohlabeln qualified for nationals by winning reserve grand champion at the regional competition held in Utah in March.
“Rudy is a talented rider and I think being at Nationals as a freshman will just help him and the team moving forward over the next three years,” said Devin Lintzenich, MSU Equestrian Team coach.
“He had a great ride, and it was a pretty tough class. I am thrilled for him and for the team that he did so well.”
Pohlabeln is proud to be representing MSU at nationals.
“It feels good to be representing the school at such a high level especially being my first year on the team,” he said.
Pohlabeln is a veterinary science major and said it’s a challenge to juggle school and finding time to practice, but said he loves the thrill of competitive riding.
“I think what I like most about riding and competing is just being able to combine the competitiveness of competition and the fun of riding horses.”
For information about Equestrian Teams at MSU, contact Lintzenich at dslintzenich@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2662.
For information about academic programs in MSU’s Department of Agricultural Sciences, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/agriculture, email agsi@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2662.
