Lilly Riddley – Shelby, North Carolina

WHAT HIGH SCHOOL OR COLLEGE ARE YOU GRADUATING FROM?
I am graduating from Cherryville High School in Cherryville, North Carolina.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOLLOWING GRADUATION?
I plan on attending the University of Tennessee in the fall and majoring in International Language and World Business. Also, I hope to double minor in Political Science and Spanish.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN THE TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE INDUSTRY AND/OR HOW ARE YOU RELATED TO THE INDUSTRY?
I have been involved in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry since I was born. My family raises horses on our farm in Shelby, North Carolina. 

DO YOU CURRENTLY HAVE HORSES IN TRAINING AND IF SO, WHO ARE THEY AND WHO IS YOUR TRAINER?
My horse, Ole Rocky Top, along with The Honor Code are in training at Legacy Stables. Our family currently has Kong at Charlie Green Stables. Also, we have Master’s Razzle And Jazz, Madden and Mirror Mirror in training with 4 The Glory Farms. Finally, our horses Walktime Dolly and Minor Ordeal are in training with Baucom Stables.

TELL US ABOUT A SPECIAL HORSE RELATED MEMORY WHETHER IN THE RING, ON THE TRAIL OR AT THE BARN?
One of the most cherished memories I have is when I won the Youth Show Pleasure World Grand Championship on the late Jose’s Delightful Pusher in 2017. She was my horse of a lifetime and my best friend. I miss her dearly. 

HOW HAVE HORSES HELPED YOU PREPARE FOR YOUR FUTURE?
The walking horse community has helped me prepare for my future by providing me with the opportunity to interact with many different people and learn how to persevere through hard times. 

DO YOU HAVE ANY PERSONAL WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO PASS ALONG TO FELLOW SENIORS DURING THIS TIME?
Always value every moment and take advantage of every opportunity in life because you never know when it might be the last time you get to have the opportunity.