Charlie Sue Pates, of Eagle, Colo., began riding horses when she was two and began competing competitively when she was just six. She hasn't been able to give the sport up ever since. She attests the love of the sport to why she could never give it up and thoroughly enjoys the challenges. The love she has for it is unexplainable, and she is ready for any future endeavors she has here at Auburn.
Prior to coming to Auburn, Pates was 2017 Zone 8 Varsity Open Horsemanship Reserve Champion, 2016 Zone 8 Varsity Open Reigning Champion and 2014 Rocky Mountain Affiliate Finals 13-under Champion. Pates is majoring in business and plans to accomplish her goal of exceeding in her academics during her time on the Plains.
Q: When deciding where you wanted to go to school, what made Auburn stand out?
A: The environment of Auburn. The people really made a change for me. Everyone is so nice. I also made it out of the cold being from Colorado. That part is really nice, too.
Q: What do you miss most about your hometown?
A: My family.
Q: What is the biggest culture shock you've experienced coming from the west to the south?
A: Everybody is super nice and welcoming here.
Q: What is your biggest goal academically while being at Auburn?
A: I want to exceed as well as I can academically.
Q: What is your biggest goal athletically while being at Auburn?
A: Just to do my best and ride my ride.
Q: When did you start equestrian? What made you want to continue with it?
A: I started riding when I was two and competing when I was around six. Just the love of the sport and the challenges it has.
Q: What makes equestrian unique from other sports at Auburn?
A: Our 'ball' has a mind of its own. It's just more challenging than the other sports I would say.
Q: What is something the Auburn Family doesn't know about you?
A: My brothers made up a nickname for me, 'Chewy', from Chewbacca very randomly. My family and close friends call me by that nickname.
Q: How do you want to contribute to the team this year?
A: I just want to be supportive. There's so much respect for these girls because of how hard they all work.
Q: What is the best advice someone has ever given you and who gave you that advice?
A: I can't remember who told me, but I really live by the saying 'work hard, play hard'. Or even 'ride hard, play hard'. You can't mess around or play around unless you work as hard as you possibly can first.
Q: What's your favorite TV show to binge-watch?
A: Friends is good. I also get a little nerdy with watching The Big Bang Theory.
Q: What's your favorite aspect of equestrian?
A: Specifically, in college and this sport, it's a different ride every time you get on and go.
Q: If you could give a message to the Auburn Family, what would it be?
A: Thank you everyone for your support and supporting something different. Not everyone understands this sport, but everyone still supports us. Thank you!
Get To Know...Charlie Sue Pates
