AUBURN, Ala. – The No. 3 Auburn equestrian team is kicking off the 2025-26 season in October and welcomed nine fresh faces to the squad—let’s get to know them!
Today’s feature is Mara Clennon!
Class: Freshman
Hometown: New Richmond, Wisc.
Discipline: Western
Prior to Auburn: 2021 APHA Novice Youth 13 & U Horsemanship Reserve World Champion … 2021 APHA 13 & U Novice Youth Showmanship Reserve World Champion … 2021 APHA Youth 13 & U Showmanship Reserve World Champion … 2022 APHA Novice Youth 18 & U Trail World Champion … 2024 APHA Youth 18 & U Showmanship World Champion … 2025 5 & Over Maturity Limited Non-Pro Hunter Under Stakes Champion … 2025 Level 2 14-18 Hunter Under Saddle Champion.
Q: What made you want to go to Auburn?
A: “The coaching staff and all the resources available to us as athletes are unlike any other program. The girls on the team are also so inclusive and want to see each of their teammates succeed.”
Q: How long have you been riding horses? What was the name of your first horse?
A: “I have been riding since I was six, so 12 years total. My first horse's name was Checkers, and her registered name was Chex Mix.”
Q: What’s the biggest lesson horseback riding has taught you about yourself?
A: “Riding has taught me that I thrive under pressure.”
Q: What is the most challenging part about balancing academics and being a student athlete?
A: “The most challenging part is dedicating time to do schoolwork on the longer, more tiring days, but being able to be a part of this program makes it all worth it.”
Q: What are some hobbies and activities you enjoy doing outside of riding?
A: “I enjoy spending time at the lake and spending time with my friends.”
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give younger riders who want to compete in college?
A: “One piece of advice I would give is to prepare yourself for the rigor of riding in college. Ride as many horses as you can and build up your strength.”
Q: Describe the Auburn equestrian team in one word.
A: “Tenacious.”
Q: If you could ride anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
A: “I would want to show in Wilmington at WEC since I have been to its Ocala counterpart, and I think it would be fun to compare.”
Q: Who or what inspires you most when you ride?
A: “What inspires me most when I ride is just being a little bit better than the day before.”
Q: What’s one thing about Auburn equestrian that most people don’t know?
A: “Even though we have some of the most accomplished riders and one of the most accomplished teams, we have the most hilarious girls and have the most fun.”
Get To Know: Mara Clennon
The No. 3 Auburn equestrian team is kicking off the 2025-26 season in October and welcomed nine fresh faces to the squad—let’s get to know them!
