My name is Emmie Patek, and I’m a sophomore from High Point, Missouri, currently attending Helias Catholic High School. I’ve been riding horses for the past seven years, beginning in the English world with saddle seat before making the transition to western.
While I’ve shifted disciplines, my English background helped instill in me the importance of presentation and position—skills that still shape my riding today.
My passion for agriculture has always been a big part of my life. I’ve been showing cattle since I was seven years old, selling show calves to local 4-Hers and competing year-round. Some of my proudest accomplishments include winning Reserve Red Angus at the American Royal, Reserve AOB at the World Beef Expo, and winning my class in Louisville, KY.
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My transition into western began at a cow horse barn where I was first introduced to reining. I immediately knew it was the path I wanted to pursue. I now ride with Bobby Avila Performance Horses and currently show a six-year-old mare. Over the past year and a half, we’ve competed at major events like the NRBC, 100X, and the NRHA Futurity —and we’re already qualified for the Youth division at The Run for a Million. I’m incredibly grateful to Bobby for not only guiding me but also giving me the chance to warm up and ride other horses, allowing me to get more time and experience on other horses to help me grow as a rider.
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Although I may be newer to reining than some, I bring grit, passion, and a strong desire to grow and prove myself. What I love most about showing is seeing the progress that comes from the hard work I put in every day at the barn. Each ride pushes me to improve with my horse and set new goals to keep climbing higher.
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Outside the arena, I’m a varsity track and field athlete, earning All-Conference, All-Sectional, and All-State honors in the 4x8 and 4x4 relays during the 2024 season. I believe this background has helped me become a strong teammate and has taught me the importance of discipline and perseverance.
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Academically, I maintain a 4.0 GPA, am on the A-Honor Roll and am interested in studying Agricultural Business or Journalism. I’m also passionate about giving back, I volunteer frequently to help package meals for the homeless.
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It’s my dream to be part of a Division I equestrian team, surrounded by girls who share my love for horses, and to continue doing what I love at the highest level.
