(Editor’s Note: The following interview took place between WHR’s Sadie Fowler and Alex Luttrell of Alvaton, Kentucky. Alex is the daughter of Courtney and Kevin Luttrell.)

Fowler: Tell me about yourself. How old are you and what are your hobbies besides horses?

Luttrell: I am 11 years old, I am a sixth grader at Foundation Christian Academy in Bowling Green, Kentucky. My hobbies are showing horses, archery, basketball and deer hunting. My trainers are Michael and Casey Wright and Tyler Baucom. 

Fowler: When did you attend your first Celebration and what is something that stands out about that first experience?

Luttrell: I attended my first Celebration at seven weeks old and haven't missed one since! My favorite Celebration moments are seeing my mom win with her favorite horse Godfather. Watching some of my favorite horses win; Honors, I Am José and Walk Time Charlie.

Fowler: What is something showing horses has taught you?

Luttrell: One thing I have learned from showing this last year is to have confidence in myself and my horse. 

Fowler: Do you have any favorite moments from the show ring?

Luttrell: My favorite show ring moment was last year at Asheville. I showed my mare Wicked Walking Witch for the first time. I was so nervous! My trainer Chad Baucom told me I could do it, and to have fun! The first night I was third, and came back the next night and won the Juvenile 11 & Under Championship, unanimously!  I was so excited and happy. I remember all my friends and family being there and watching me. I'm so glad I was able to share that moment not only with my family and friends but also with Chad. 

Fowler: What is something you learned about showing from your mom?

Luttrell: My Mom has taught me to have fun and enjoy the ride! I call her watery eyes because she gets teary eyed every time I ride.

Fowler: What about your dad?

Luttrell: My dad always tells me to not get too fast, stay on the rail and have fun! 

Fowler: Considering you come from such a horsey family, why did you wait a while before really getting involved with the showing aspect?

Luttrell: My parents have always encouraging me to ride and show. I'm glad they let me take my time and decide for myself when I was ready. 

Fowler: What are some things you enjoy about visiting Shelbyville during horse show season?

Luttrell: We come to Shelbyville a lot in the Summer! I enjoy seeing my friends, and eating at Miller’s Grocery. 

Fowler: Do you recognize any differences in the kids you know from here compared to your non-horse friends back home?

Luttrell:
The Shelbyville kids know about Walking Horses and don't ask me questions like: why is your horse wearing high heels? 

Fowler: What do you tell your friends about horses, Shelbyville, and things you enjoy?

Luttrell: I tell them about the walking horse breed, about showing and about The Celebration. The President of my school has invited me to bring Witch to school with me! 

Fowler: What’s your favorite food to eat at the horse show?

Luttrell: The doughnuts!

Fowler: How do you spend the free time you have if not riding?

Luttrell: Other than horses I am an avid deer hunter. I have killed five bucks on our farm. I also love Kentucky Basketball! 

Fowler: What do you want to do when you grow up career wise?

Luttrell: I want to be a real estate agent, I think that would be fun. 

Fowler: Do you have any idols and if so who are they and why?

Luttrell: I can't chose just one idol. There are so many people I look up to. I look up to God, my mom and dad, I look up to my teachers, my grandparents and my trainers. I always looked up to Chad Baucom, he was always so nice to me. He helped me to learn how to ride, and show. I am so glad he put me in the ring last year at Asheville. I will never forget him telling me I could do it, and I did. I never heard him say an unkind word about anyone, he put God first and I admire that. Chad wasn't just my horse trainer, he was my friend and I miss him.