Q&A With Seasoned CCHS Competitor Sophie Gochman
Sophie Gochman and Brian Moggre Photo: Jump Media
How long have you been attending CCHS, and what makes you keep returning?
I have been attending CCHS for about 15 years, on and off. I keep returning because it is a really fun national championship for the hunters. I especially enjoy the WCHR Challenges.
Sophie Gochman and Truly Noble Photo: Jennifer Wood Media
When did you start attending CCHS?
I've been showing at CCHS on and off since I was six years old. I stopped doing the hunters when I was around 16, so this will be my first time back since then.
What is your horsey background?
My mom rode horses when she was little, so she bought a pony for me when she found out she was pregnant! I have been riding since before I could walk. My family has a private barn called Baxter Hill where my mom, my sister, and I ride. I also ride with Rivers Edge (Scott Stewart and Ken Berkeley) and Oakland (Darragh Kenny).
Sophie Gochman and Mimi Gochman Photo:Jump Media
What is your favorite thing about the show?
I love how CCHS highlights the hunters. I think that at most shows, the jumpers have the most exciting classes, so it is fun to have a show that really appreciates the hunters.
What are your earliest memories of CCHS?
I think CCHS was my first indoor show, so it has definitely been a place where I have learned a lot and experienced a lot of ups and downs. Some of my earliest memories were cheering on my trainer, Scott Stewart, in the WCHR Professional Final class where the finalists switch horses.
Sophie Gochman and Dominik Photo: Shawn McMillen Photography
What is it like to win at CCHS?
Because it's the WCHR final, it's a lot of pressure to show at CCHS. My most memorable win was when I was about 12, I won the WCHR Pony Challenge with Truly Noble. It was my first time getting a 92, which was my high score until last year.
Any funny anecdotes from CCHS?
I remember once, when we were little, my sister disappeared right before she was supposed to show, and we had to send the whole show out looking for her.
What are you most looking forward to at this year's show?
I haven't ridden at CCHS in a couple of years, so I'm looking forward to the new challenge of riding my horses in an indoor ring and competing against the best amateurs in the country. I love competing at CCHS and am so excited to return!