Lillie Keenan: America's Darling
www.facebook.com/Lillie.C.Keenan
"Our Amerigo saddles keep me and my horses in perfect balance and harmony. Thank you @amerigo_saddles_official @worldequestrianbrands for your craftsmanship and the support. Freedom and comfort allow my horses, like Chaccolette (pictured), to show off their style."
- Lillie Keenan
Background
Lillie Carmichael Keenan was born on October 4, 1996, in New York, N.Y. She began riding at the age of six after discovering photos of her mother, who rode as a junior. Her early training took place at Claremont Stables in New York City before she moved to Heritage Farm to train under Andre Dignelli and Patricia Griffith.
Competitive Career
Lillie Keenan is an American show jumping rider who has represented the U.S. in numerous international competitions. As a junior rider, she won several prestigious titles, including the ASPCA Maclay Finals, the USEF Medal Finals, and the Washington International Horse Show Equitation Championship.
Keenan's early career was marked by multiple championships in the USEF Pony Finals, with notable wins in various divisions including small, medium, and large championships. In 2010, she won the Equitation Classic at the Washington International Horse Show and the USHJA Hunter Derby Finals at the age of 14.
In 2013, Keenan was part of the historic all-female team that won the Aga Khan Trophy at the Dublin Horse Show and the victorious U.S. team that clinched the gold medal in the BMO Nations Cup at the Spruce Meadows ‘Masters’ CSIO5* Tournament.
Recent Achievements
After graduating from Harvard College in 2019 with a degree in History of Science, Keenan continued to excel in her equestrian career. She trains with McLain Ward, who has been a significant influence on her riding. Her recent top results include a third-place finish in the 2022 CSI5* Paris Grand Prix with Queensland E and a win in the 2021 $37,000 FEI Adequan WEF Challenge Round 1 CSI3* with Argana Van Het Gerendal Z.
Current Endeavors
Today, Keenan continues to compete at the highest levels of show jumping. She is also a strong advocate for Amerigo saddles, praising their craftsmanship and support, which she believes helps her and her horses perform at their best.
Notable Achievements
- ASPCA Maclay Finals Winner
- USEF Medal Finals Winner
- Washington International Horse Show Equitation Champion
- 2013 Aga Khan Trophy Winner
- 2013 BMO Nations Cup Gold Medalist
- 2013 USEF Junior Equestrian of the Year
- 2021 $37,000 FEI Adequan WEF Challenge Round 1 CSI3* Winner
- 2022 CSI5* Paris Grand Prix Third Place
Conclusion
Lillie Keenan's biography highlights her dedication to the sport of show jumping, her impressive achievements from a young age, and her ongoing commitment to excellence in her career. She continues to inspire and lead in the equestrian world, both as a competitor and as an advocate for quality equestrian products.
