Louisville, KY – Emily Egner, a lifelong resident of Hinesville, has achieved a significant milestone by winning the coveted title of world champion as an adult rider in the Amateur Show Pleasure Division at the prestigious World’s Championship Horse Show.
This highly competitive event, a highlight of the Kentucky State Fair, features over 2,000 American Saddlebred Horses, including Egner’s exceptional partner, “Classic Design.” Together, they formed a formidable team that impressed both judges and spectators.
“Just having the privilege to showcase this magnificent horse on the green shavings again was an honor. Winning the World Champion title is something I’ve dreamed of since I was a little kid,” Egner, 20, brimming with enthusiasm, said. “While I cherished my time in Equitation as a junior exhibitor, competing as an adult has been an absolute thrill. The cheers from the crowd when we were named world champions were beyond my wildest dreams! I’m deeply grateful to everyone at Team Milestone, and of course, to my parents.”
This victory marks Egner’s sixth year competing at the illustrious World’s Championship Horse Show and her second year riding “Classic Design” as an adult. Known for their high-stepping gaits and commanding presence, American Saddlebreds are judged on performance, manners, presence, quality, and conformation — areas where Egner and “Classic Design” excelled.
“Classic Design” is co-owned by Emily and her parents, Tom and Kathrin Egner, who also reside in Hinesville. The horse is trained at Milestone Stables in White House, Tenn.
In addition to this recent triumph, Egner was one of 12 saddle seat equitation athletes selected to represent the U.S. at the 2024 International Saddle Seat World Cup in Parys, South Africa, next December. Egner earned her place on the team during the Saddle Seat World Cup Selection Trials in Fulton, Missouri, last December.
The International Saddle Seat World Cup challenges riders with rail work and pattern work on unfamiliar horses, provided by owners in the host country and selected by random draw. The team trials at William Woods University’s Equestrian Studies program in Fulton replicated this format, testing riders’ adaptability across different mounts.
