Show jumper Hannah Selleck discusses her ultimate goal

Some of the top equestrian athletes in the world were in Los Angeles last weekend as part of the Longines Grand Prix show jumping competition at the Los Angeles Convention Center. On Saturday, beginning equestrian rider Hannah Mitchell, the 14-year-old daughter of Times assistant sports editor Houston Mitchell, sat down with show jumper Hannah Selleck for an interview.

Do you remember your first horse when you were a kid?

My first horse my parents got for me was named Taffy Apple and she was a really cute medium pony. She was very cute and very naughty.

When did you know that equestrian is something you wanted to compete in?

I started competing around the age of 12 and when I was 14 I had to choose between ballet and riding and had to choose. So I chose the horses and from then on I sort of dove into it.

What advice would you give to young girls who want to compete in this sport?

Immerse yourself in it and learn everything about horses, from taking care of the horse on. That’s really important and it makes for success.

What is your ultimate goal in this sport?

To represent the U.S. in international competition.

What is one thing about this sport that you think most people would be surprised to learn?

It’s one of the only Olympic sports in which men and women compete against each other. I think it is the only one, but I can’t say for sure.