Emily Short has been riding horses from the time she was 5.

She began entering equestrian competitions at the age of 8, and her collection of awards, medals and ribbons has reached overflow status.

"My mother was involved in riding and once I began I fell in love with it," the Fox Chapel Area High School freshman said. "It's a full time passion for me now."

She rides six days a week, 12 months a year and has traveled to competitions all over the country.

"Recently, I was in Gulfport, Miss., and this summer I'll be traveling to places like Ohio, Kentucky and Michigan," she says.

One of her most recent competitions was the Prix DeVille in Erie.

Riding for the Bar Gee team, her and her teammates won the team event and Emily took first in the individual events.

One of her teammates and riding partners, Maria Costa of Shady Side Academy, is also from the area.

Over the years, Emily has taken many spills. As a result, she has suffered a broken shoulder, a concussion and an arm injury after a horse stepped on her.

"It happens in this sport, she says. "I've gotten injured, but I've never had any second thoughts about getting back up on my horse."

Equestrian riding is something that Emily wants to continue doing for a long time.

"I definitely want to pursue a professional career doing this. I eventually want to compete in all of the competitions I can."