Private Schools: Equestrian Andrew Elhindi Takes It All In Stride

Despite national success, Elhindi keeps his feet on the ground. The 16-year-old equestrian from Andrews Osborne Academy is more often on a saddle than the street, earning him his current national ranking of 15th in the United States Equestrian Federation’s Large Junior Hunter 3’3’ Division. Training at Maypine Farm in Willoughby Hills, the junior competes in showcases throughout the country two to three times a month.

Faithful Steed: When Elhindi and his parents were debating which horse to buy for competition, he took a holistic approach, taking into account the horse’s physique and coloring, but also his own intuition. “I’m looking for the connection,” he says. “If we’re together or if we’re going to be oil and vinegar.” He found his complement in Face Value, an 8-year-old Dutch Warmblood Gelding. “He’s more of a laid-back horse,” says Elhindi. “He’s very soft-spoken.”

Detail Oriented: Elhindi competes in show hunter events, a discipline of equestrianism that takes its origins from fox hunting competitions. While jumper events are judged based on how quickly and accurately a horse completes a show jump, hunters must perform a routine that demonstrates outstanding manners, efficient gaits and a good jumping style. It’s a more subjective judging that requires a fine attention to detail. “The competition is very challenging and strategic,” says Elhindi. “It’s really about teaching you teamwork, sportsmanship and communication skills.”

Pony Up: Before he took to the saddle, Elhindi played the field. “When I was very young, I competed in soccer, basketball, baseball, but I couldn’t get interested or focused on any of it,” he says. But in second grade, he watched his older sister take a riding lesson at Maypine Farm and asked his mom to sign him up. By fourth grade, he was competing in equestrian events.

Frequent Flyer: Elhindi has competed in six states and recently went on an Andrews Osborne Academy-led trip to Spain, where he was fascinated by the architecture in Barcelona and Madrid. Elhindi plans on joining the International Club this year. “I want to go to France, Italy, Germany,” he says.

Horse Power: A whiz in math and science, the junior is thinking about studying technology, business or equine studies. He hopes to compete in college, and try equitation, jumper events and competing in an international hunter derby. “I still have so much to learn about horses and riding,” he says. “But one day maybe I can share what I know with younger riders who are interested in the sport I love.”