At just 14 years old and a student at Anchorage Public School, Willa Newell is already leaving her mark in the world of horseback riding.

It all started when Willa was just 5 years old. Growing up around horses, she fell in love with them instantly. Her first riding lesson marked the beginning of her journey into the world of eventing. Now, almost a decade later, she's still going strong.

What does she love about eventing? For Willa, it's all about the bond between rider and horse. She thrives on seeing how much she and her horse, Take a Chance, have grown together. Plus, the friendships she's made along the way make it all the more special.

Willa's not just in it for the love of the sport - she's got the achievements to back it up. In 2023, she took 5th place overall in the Junior Beginner Novice Division at the American Eventing Championships. Not only that, but her horse was named the High Point Thoroughbred in the same division. By the end of the year, she was ranked fifth in the nation and second in Area 8, which includes Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee.

So, what sets Willa apart? It's her determination. Even when she's tired and just wants to go home, she pushes through. She knows that every moment in the saddle is worth it. Balancing school, riding, and free time isn't easy, but Willa tries her best to manage it all. From show prep to homework, she makes sure everything gets done. And she's got someone special to thank for her success - her trainer, Angela Ariatti. Angela taught her to never give up and fight for what she wants. She adds, "She has taught me so much in riding and is like a second mother to so many people. She has also brought opportunities to me that I wouldn't have had without her." 

When she's not riding or tackling school assignments, Willa enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her mom Mary, dad, Chris, big brother, Barrett, sister, Jorie, Jorie's husband, Zach, and their baby, Zachary.