June 20, 2018
AUBURN, Ala. -- Just like in most collegiate sports, equestrian provides opportunities to become a professional after your career on the Plains is through. For a handful of Auburn alums, these opportunities have come to fruition and they are enjoying the sport they love on the next level.
Jennifer Waxman (2010-14) was a successful rider for Auburn in Equitation Over Fences and stands second on the program's all-time wins list with 56. The NCEA All-American was a part of two national championship teams while on the Plains and caught up with AuburnTigers.com.
Q: There are many Auburn equestrian fans that might not understand what it means to be a professional in this sport. How would you explain it to them?
A: There are a lot of different ways to be a professional in this sport. Trainers train people on horses and riders typically ride and train the horses. Most professionals do a bit of both, but I have a job as just a rider. Since I work at a breeding farm, we have no riding clients. Therefore, my only focus is to train the horses. It's a rare opportunity, especially in the U.S., and I'm very grateful to have it.
Q: What has been your biggest win since becoming a professional?
A: Since I'm working with young horses, most of my accomplishments are based on the horse's progress. While I have had some good results, I count any clear rounds and rounds that the horses improve as victories. Most notably, I've been Champion on Mackinac SCF multiple times in the baby greens. I've also won a few classes on Maui SCF in the 6-year old young jumpers.
Q: What has been your greatest accomplishment as a pro aside from winning?
A: Being a part of these young horses' development is very rewarding. The string of horses I ride at Spy Coast have come so far and it's really fun to be a part of their progression.
Q: When you're not at a show competing, what would someone find you doing?
A: Probably playing with my dog, doing yoga or hanging out with friends. We finish at 4 p.m. every day so it makes it easy to do things after work. Although, I must admit that after riding 10 horses a day I sometimes take it easy after work.
Q: What are some goals you are hoping to accomplishment this season?
A: There are young horse finals in September and October, so I'd say that's what I'm aiming my horses for. I'd also like to keep improving as a rider. Good news is I get to practice a lot!
Q: Looking back at when you were choosing a school to attend, what was it about Auburn and about the equestrian program that told you this was the place to be?
A: There's something about being on campus that really sucks you in, or maybe it's that Coach Greg Williams was very convincing. At that time in my life, it seemed like a really great way to go to school and a change of pace from my high school experience.
Q: What are some skills you learned from being a part of the team that are helping you now?
A: Being on time (which means 15 minutes early), how to be a part of a team, and that hard work gets noticed.
Q: Which horse was your favorite to ride at Auburn and why?
A: There were definitely a few. Crew, Changoo, and Clifford are probably at the top of the list. They all had a lot of personality and were really fun to ride.
Q: Is there something about being on the team you miss that you didn't think you would?
A: Can't say I miss the actual workouts, but I do miss having someone make me workout regularly. Thankfully, I have a job that keeps me active. I also took for granted living in the same place with so many friends.
Q: What is your favorite Greg Williams quote?
A: He always would say to plant the seed for the tree you won't enjoy the shade under. Sometimes it's hard to work toward something you might not get to reap the rewards from, but that doesn't mean it's any less important.
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