Madison Murray, Auburn Athletics Communications Intern
AUBURN, Ala - The top-ranked Auburn equestrian team has welcomed 22 new faces to the squad in 2024-25 and it’s time to get to know them!
Now we have Isabel Litkenhous!
Class: Junior
Hometown: Auburn, Alabama
Discipline: Jumping Seat
Q: You grew up in Auburn and went to Ole Miss, what made you want to come back to your hometown and attend Auburn?
A: “Growing up here, I know basically everyone, so I thought I wanted a change of scenery and people, which is why I attended Ole Miss. It only took me a couple of months to realize how much I actually really loved Auburn and that I wanted to come back. I didn’t even ask my parents if I could apply and transfer, I told them I applied after I did it.”
Q: What is your major, and what are your plans to do with it after college?
A: “Currently my major is animal sciences along the equine route. I’m not entirely sure what I want to do after college yet, maybe something along the lines of equine physiology.”
Q: What would you say your biggest accomplishment has been thus far in life?
A: “My biggest accomplishment would be being able to maintain a long-distance relationship. My boyfriend and I have been dating for four years, three of which have been long distance. He goes to West Point Military Academy in New York, and we go months without seeing each other. It’s not for the faint of heart and I have several friends tell me they wouldn’t be able to do it, so I take pride in being able to do something like that.”
Q: What are you most looking forward to heading into your spring season?
A: “I’m most looking forward to our team becoming even stronger as a unit together. We’ve accomplished a lot already this fall by working together as one. I think after a well-deserved winter break, we will come back ready to chase down that national championship."
Q: What is your favorite restaurant in Auburn?
A: “Acre by far! I’ve never had something at Acre I didn’t like and the staff are always so sweet and personal.”
Q: When and why did you start riding horses?
A: “I started riding horses at five. No one in my family has ever ridden, so I was the first one to. My mom swears my first word was horse, and she says I’ve always been drawn to animals over everything else, so it was really just my calling.”
Q: What has the adjustment process been like moving up from the IHSA club team to the varsity level?
A: “The adjustment process has definitely been different. IHSA isn’t as big of a time commitment as a varsity level team. I think IHSA was a good steppingstone though for knowing what kind of to expect at this level with riding unfamiliar horses.”
Q: What do you hope to accomplish while on the team?
A: “I hope to accomplish becoming fitter and stronger as a rider. I haven’t ridden as consistently as I used to due to my horse having a career ending injury, so I hope to develop that level of fitness back up.”
Q: Favorite home cooked meal?
A: “This is a tough one, I’m a SUPER picky eater. Probably homemade pasta of any kind.”
Q: What piece of advice would you give to transfer students?
A: “It’s okay to not feel at home at the first school you attended. It’s okay to transfer to a place you love. Just make sure once you get to that place, to take every opportunity and make connections, you won’t regret it.”
Q: Favorite place in/around Auburn?
A: “Russell Crossroads up at Lake Martin, just 45 minutes north of Auburn. The land is beautiful. There’s a fun little grocery store called Catherine’s Market with baked goods, fresh produce, and top meat selections. A delicious restaurant called Spring House with a gorgeous view of their beautiful stables. I could spend forever up there.”