Chloe Friedheim is our second newest guest writer. Here is her Q&A session!

How did you get into riding?: My mom rode since she was a teenager, and since she continued to ride when she had children, I sat on a horse before I could walk.

How long have you been riding?: I started riding seriously at age 8, so 8 years now.

Where are you from?: I’m from New Jersey.

Are you in college? If so, what’s your major?: I am not in college, but will be within the next two years. I’m interested in studying history while in college, but of course that can change!

If you’re not in college, what do you do for a living?: I’m a high school student, but I do work at a cafe.

How often do you ride?: Between the erratic weather and selling horses my riding has unfortunately been very inconsistent lately. But, when in a program I ride between 5-6 days a week.

What discipline do you ride?: I ride hunters.

Do you show? In what divisions?: Yes, I show, but haven’t shown in a while due to various reasons. I showed in the children’s hunter horses.

Do you own or lease a horse? Tell us about him or her.: I own two horses, but one of them was recently leased out. Shimmer is a Thoroughbred, whom I showed in the children’s hunters. Shimmer has been in our family for about 7/8 years, and he was recently leased out. Levi is a 6yr old Hanoverian who went to Wellington for a couple weeks this year, and he is green but very talented.

What made you want to write for TLE?: I enjoy writing and write countless essays for my English class, but it is much more enjoyable to write when you are genuinely interested in the topic, so writing for an equestrian blog was a great match.

What has been your favorite article you’ve written?: I interviewed Erin McGuire, and it was fascinating to learn more about such an accomplished equestrian and student, especially one I have followed on social media.

How do you come up with ideas for TLE articles?: I see the trends in the media, and if I have a product that is popular or that I think will become popular, I write about it. When I go to a noteworthy place, for example WEF, and I think that our readers will take something away from it, I write about that.

What are your riding goals for this year?: To keep progressing, even through the cold winter, and to hopefully show over the summer!

What advice do you have for someone who wants to be a TLE guest writer or have a submission piece published?: Pick something you have knowledge on or an interest in. If you don’t have an interest, or aren’t already knowledgeable on the piece, it will be hard to write, and to read.

When you’re not riding, how do you unwind?: I listen to music and go on social media, but because I’m a junior there is usually always homework I should be doing.

What are your long-term riding goals?: When I go to college I hope to be on the equestrian team.

If you could ride any “famous” horse, which would it be?: Probably Brunello.

If you could clinic with any big name rider who would it be?: If I had to do any clinic I think it would be with George Morris.

What is your biggest riding strength? Weakness?: Weakness – Sitting straight, I tend to lean one way; Strength – I’m very committed to riding and try to put as much time in as possible.

Name your 3 must have equestrian brands. Ecogold Half Pad; Ariat Heritage Tall Boots; Leather Horse Name Belt

Name your 3 must have equestrian apparel brands.: Riding Sport Winter Coat; Tailored Sportsmen Breeches; Noble Outfitters Long Sleeve Shirts

Betsee Parker’s money & horses or McLain Ward’s equitation?: McLain Ward’s equitation

Who is your favorite big name rider and why?: Beezie Madden because she’s a very exciting rider to watch, especially on Cortes C.

What has been your biggest riding accomplishment thus far?: I mainly just enjoy riding and progressing with my horses.

What has been your biggest personal accomplishment thus far?: I would have to say juggling Junior year (so far). Between AP classes, TLE, JMR [Judge My Ride], riding, and clubs, it hasn’t been easy.

Do you have any other pets?: I have a dog, Cleo, who is a Westie

What’s your favorite riding season?: I love summer!

WEF or Ocala?: I’ve only been to the WEF show grounds, and from what I’ve heard I’d have to say WEF.

Favorite saddle brand?: Butet or CWD, unfortunately I have neither.

Tell us your favorite joke.

If you could change one thing about USEF rules, what would it be and why?: I think that having stricter rules or tighter enforcement on pony/horse measurements would be beneficial.

What are your favorite non-horse-related makeup and clothing brands?: I just got Tommy Hilfiger snow boots that I absolutely love, and would definitely recommend!