The Central Ohio Reining Horse Association recently named Asbury University alumna Clara Quade ’20 as the 2025 Rookie Professional Champion after winning the division riding a 4-year old AQHA mare, “Ruby.” Quade previously trained and competed in Reining at CORHA, Western Dressage with the Western Dressage Association of America, and won the bridleless class at the International Liberty Horse Association Championships with her personal AQHA mare, “Quita.”
Horses have been my passion for as long as I can remember. Understanding, connecting, and communicating with them continuously sparks my curiosity and desire to learn. From the time I was young, I did everything I could to feed this curiosity: I took riding and groundwork lessons, taught tricks to my neighbors’ ponies, worked as many different jobs in the equine industry as possible, and earned my B.A. in Equine Studies at Asbury University, training with Jesse Westfall.”
The Asbury Equine Studies graduate is founder of Quade Performance Horses, training horses and instructing clients in foundational horsemanship and western sports: groundwork, under saddle, and liberty work, with a primary focus on coaching Reining and Ranch Riding, as well as teaching fundamental Western Dressage.
“After years of soaking up every bit of knowledge I could about horse training and care, I understand the deep desire to educate, connect and communicate with horses at a higher level,” Quade said. “I am passionate about sharing what I have learned with others who also have a curiosity for this connection, and who would like their horses to develop a higher level of education. I am available to travel for one-on-one lessons, training your horse, coaching at shows, clinics, and working with you to create a personalized plan that best fits you and your horse.”
Asbury University’s historic Equine Studies program continues to open doors for students, equipping them for successful careers in the equine industry while intentionally investing in their Christian faith.
Gracie Friese ’27 and McKenna Rumage ’27, received nationally competitive scholarships from the EQUUS Foundation, which gave $40,000 overall in scholarships to 33 undergraduate and graduate level students enrolled in equine studies and veterinary programs around the U.S.
The Asbury University Shaw School of Sciences includes five departments: Biology & Chemistry, Equine Studies, Exercise Science, Mathematics & Computer Science, and Nursing. Asbury’s Department of Equine Studies includes undergraduate majors in Equine Assisted Services, Equine Science, and Equine Studies and undergraduate minors in Equine Business Management and Equine Studies.