Taylor Landstrom, a high school athlete from Minnetonka, Minnesota, has taken a unique path to securing a Division I equestrian scholarship with the Oklahoma State Cowgirls. She spends nearly a quarter of each year in Florida competing in national-level equestrian competitions, making her a rare Minnesotan on the show circuit.

Despite her family’s lack of experience with horses, Landstrom began riding at age 4 and developed a strong bond with the animals. She credits this bond with helping her succeed in competition and ultimately secure a scholarship to compete at the collegiate level.

In order to pursue her equestrian dreams, Landstrom had to seek out a more competitive barn than what was available in Minnesota. Her family considered sending her to Three Ships, a barn in Indianapolis known for producing national champions, before ultimately securing her spot with the Oklahoma State Cowgirls.