Emma Thomas, 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!
Today’s feature is Ariana Marnell!
Class: Freshman
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada
Discipline: Jumping Seat
Prior to Auburn: 2023 Prix De States Gold Medalist … Grand Champion at all four Indoor National Championships – Capital Challenge, Harrisburg, WIHS and The National Horse Show … 2023 Best Junior Rider at The Hampton Classic, Capital Challenge and Harrisburg.
Q: What made you want to go to Auburn?
A: “Auburn's history of championships and winning culture made the choice clear. The coaching staff is also second to none.”
Q: What is your major and what do you plan to do with it after you graduate?
A: “My major is psychology. I am still debating whether I would like to be a psychologist or use my psychology in a marketing/business aspect.”
Q: What is your favorite Auburn tradition and why?
A: “My favorite Auburn tradition is rolling Toomer’s Corner. It is something the entire school gets behind whether it's equestrian or any of the other sports.”
Q: What are you looking forward to in the spring part of season and what has been your favorite part so far now that the fall is done?
A: “I am looking forward to the SEC championship and the NCEA Championship and competing on a bigger stage under high pressure. My favorite part has been our fall meets and competing as a team.”
Q: How long have you been riding horses and what was the name of your first horse?
A: “I have been riding for about thirteen years. My first horse's name was Poeteen.”
Q: What has been your favorite riding memory throughout your entire time with the sport?
A: “My favorite riding memory was winning my first national championship in 2021.”
Q: How has your freshman experience been so far?
A: “My freshman year has been so much fun. I have really enjoyed practicing with our seniors and some girls I have looked up to for a long time; getting help from them in practice has been fun.”
Q: What is your favorite Auburn sport to go to and why?
A: “My favorite Auburn sport is football. I love the games at night.”
Q: What are some hobbies that you like to do outside of riding?
A: “Some hobbies I have are Pilates, reading autobiographies from famous athletes, and going out with friends.”
Q: What is your favorite trip you have taken or your dream trip that you want to take?
A: “My dream trip would be going to Europe to show my horses.”
Q: What is your favorite home cooked meal and what makes it so special?
A: “My favorite home cooked meal is steak. My dad has got it down to a T.”
Q: Do you have a pre-meet routine? If so, what is it?
A: “No. I get pretty intense but I'm not sure if that counts as a routine.”
Q: What has been the best concert you’ve ever attended?
A: “The best concert I have attended was Drake.”
Q: If you could have any actor portray you in a movie, who would it be any why?
A: “It would be Beth from Yellowstone. She handles her business!”