Aston Hudson astride his horse, LA Roc
Aston Hudson, a junior at Milford High School, recently learned that he had been accepted to participate in the Retired Racehorse Project, one of only 500 competitors accepted to the program. Hudson got involved in equestrian sports as his mother was also involved with horses.
“I developed an interest in riding and showing as a kid,” Hudson said. “I started riding in third grade. The competition takes place every October in Lexington, Kentucky, and is designed to showcase the versatility and usefulness of the thoroughbred horse. All the horses who are competing must have been part of the racing industry. My horse is a Florida bred grandson of Curlin who won the Preakness in 2007, although my horse did not run in any races. He was displaced by Hurricane Ida, and we bought him from a farm in Texas in September 2021.”
Hudson states that his favorite part of equestrian sports is jumping, and the most challenging aspect is succeeding in a difficult competition or a venue that is challenging in a short period of time. Hudson plans to go to college but has not yet decided what subject he plans to study.
“Riding horses helps me with perseverance,” Hudson said. “I have to do something hard and, if I give up, I will never reach my goal. It has helped me be a better student and a better athlete. I bought LA Roc in September 2021 and have spent a year getting ready for this competition. I am really excited to go.
Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dickerson applauded Hudson’s accomplishment, wishing him well at the competition which will take place October 10-15.
“Aston has worked really hard with a young horse to get to this point,” Dr. Dickerson said. “Aston is an honor student and two-sport varsity athlete and is now competing in a national horse show as well. We are very proud of Aston’s accomplishments and are thrilled to be able to spotlight such a talented young man.”
Share this Post