Imlay City equestrian rider just a freshman

Success in the ring; rides in 15 of 16 events

 

IMLAY CITY — Don’t tell Imlay City’s Payton Hintz Equestrian is a team sport.

The Spartan freshman has shown everyone what a little determination can do for a person.

Hintz started riding horses in 2019, while living in Florida. The family moved back to Michigan in 2023, and within a short period of time, she knew she wanted to join the equestrian team, along with participating in other competitions.

Not only is she fully committed to riding, (practices at least 4 days a week), she also participates in IC cheer and track. She also enjoys volunteering for Food for Families @ St. Paul’s Lutheran and attends their youth group program. Somehow she fits it all in, and still gets great grades.

She is the only rider for the Imlay City Equestrian Team and made it to Nationals, placing 6th. Last year for the middle school, she was the only rider and earned Reserve Grand Champion.

Her mom, Erin, says, “It’s very hard work and while most schools have multiple riders, she did 15 events out of 16 on her own and did great.”