Emma Huddleston, of Wedowee, brought home a world championship title this week from the Tennessee Walking Horse World Versatility Show in Murfreesboro, Tenn.
Huddleston and her horse, “A Congressman,” also known as “Congress,” won first place in Stockseat Equitation. This isn’t the first time the dynamic duo has brought home the prize. Last year, they won the beginner obstacles course competition. Huddleston said she was overcome with gratitude when they won another first-place title.
“I cried when they called our name out because there were lots of people there,” Huddleston recalled. “So yeah, I cried when I got the ribbon. I wondered if I could ever do it again or if Congress could, so I was tickled. I am proud because we’ve done it one more time.”
Huddleston and Congress also placed third in English Equitation, sixth in Model Open, Model Amateur and In-hand Obstacle and eighth in Obstacle Amateur Riding.
After years of training and practice, Huddleston said she hopes to inspire other riders to chase their dreams.
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“I started out more bottom of the barrel, you know,” Huddleston said. “We don't have the best facility. I didn’t always have the nicest clothes and tack. We work with what we’ve got. The only way to practice is to go compete. Don’t tell yourself you’re not ready and just sit at home because then you will never be ready. Just go for it. You will never know until you go.”
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