Interview with equestrian Sarah Milliren
Sarah is an equestrian that rode for the University of Georgia and is now retired professionally. She is from Tulsa, Oklahoma and now lives in Houston, Texas. She has her Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management. She is currently the Vice President of Operations at Upright Digital.
During her equestrian career, she has won and placed in many events, but her biggest win was the ASPCA Maclay National Championship in 2011 in Kentucky.
She has a dog named Bernie that she rescued 3 years ago. She found him at a barbeque joint. Sarah still rides sometimes but more as a hobby. She enjoys working out and being outdoors as well as going on walks.
You can listen to our conversation here. Here is a summary of our conversation:
She started riding at 6 years old, it was her birthday present. Her mom grew up as an equestrian as well, while her dad played basketball at West Point. She was an English Hunter Jumper and Equitation. She did high school online as a “working student” so she could travel for shows and that’s how she got recruited to Georgia.
She explained to me how horses can perform differently depending on who is riding. In collegiate equestrian meets, they’re structured in efforts to make it a team sport by giving points to whoever rides the same horse best.
She rode professionally for almost three years after college but eventually she was craving a different lifestyle. Adjusting to the new norm of life without competitive riding was challenging. She loves to train at the F45 gym because it is an athletic atmosphere with like-minded people.
She now works for a marketing company that mainly works with oil and gas, specializing in digital marketing and media. She sometimes goes for rides, maybe some jumps here and there. She still loves to ride but in a more relaxed environment.
She is a huge advocate for mental health and loves to stay physically active. She recommends that athletes be sure to love the sport you are doing and pursue your dreams.
If you have any more questions for Sarah, please leave comments below or contact me. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call the Suicide Hotline. It’s toll free and available 24/7 at 800-273-8255.
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