UK Campus Celebrity Jacqui Christenson

The University of Kentucky is home to one of the finest equestrian programs in the United States, which is why many students with an interest in horses come here in order to learn more about their industry. Jacqui Christenson was one of those students.

Jacqui and one of her mom’s horses, Guaranteed Success, posing with her 2009 Indiana Hunter Jumper Association High Point Hunter Award

Jacqui is an equine science major from Noblesville, Ind., a suburb north of Indianapolis. She started riding about 10 years ago and has since come to own three horses, two of which are now retired.
 
“My first horse was named Tommy, but he’s retired now. Then we also have my mom’s horse, Gunnar, who is also retired, and Wildcat, my current show jumper.”
 
When she first arrived at UK, it was a major change from the farm-esque community she came from. A sophomore now, she’s used to city life and enjoying it a lot.

“I really like Lexington; there’s always something to do, and there’s a lot more people here, plus the equine industry here is way better. There’s a lot more horse farms and equestrian businesses in general.”

Jacqui competing on her current horse, Wildcat

One day Jacqui hopes to own an equine business of her own. “[One day], I would love to be a trainer, but that’s a long way off. For now I train and compete.”
 
Jacqui does hunter jumper competitions, and competes in the A-Circuit around the Midwest. She’s also recently competed in the Kentucky Nationals, though it didn’t go well. “It was a new horse, so he wasn’t used to competitions,” she explained, “I think it threw off my game.”
 
It takes more than competition experience and a degree to start a successful business these days, however, so Jacqui is mastering the skills she needs in order to one day own her own barn.  To do this, she, on top of competing and training, also takes time to work at the barn where she trains. “We help with grooming, cleaning, feeding: stuff like that. It can be a lot of work sometimes, but it’s good experience.” 

Jacqui competing on Wildcat

With school full time, training, working at the barn and competitions, Jacqui doesn’t really have time for school-related extra-curricular activities. “I’ve thought about trying to join the UK Equestrian Team, but I just don’t have time,” she lamented. “It might be something I’d consider doing in the future.”
 
Equestrian culture is a major part of Kentucky. Strength, discipline, and determination are all embodied in this culture, and in those who participate. In this sense Jacqui fits right in with the Kentuckian spirit, and while she may be from up north, she’s made Lexington her home.