‘TELL IT LIKE IT IS’ On The Plains: Caroline Buchanan’s Final Ride Fueled by Grit, Legacy, and Championship Dreams

From Arizona roots to Auburn stardom, Buchanan blends elite equestrian performance with academic excellence as she eyes a national title and a future in dentistry.

AUBURN, Ala. | In the world of collegiate equestrian, few journeys capture the essence of discipline, legacy, and purpose quite like Caroline Buchanan’s run at Auburn. From the deserts of Arizona to the championship-caliber barns on the Plains, Buchanan has carved out a story defined by resilience, family influence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—both in competition and in the classroom.

Following in the footsteps of her older sister, Kate Buchanan, who joined Auburn in 2020, Caroline arrived in 2022 with both high expectations and a deep-rooted passion for the sport. What followed was an immediate impact. In her freshman season (2022–23), Buchanan delivered a statement performance, securing a win at the SEC Championship and adding another victory in the NCEA Final against SMU with a score of 217—announcing her presence on the national stage.

But Buchanan’s journey is more than wins and accolades. It’s a testament to the discipline that equestrian demands—long hours, early mornings, and a level of responsibility that extends far beyond the arena.

“Equestrian has definitely taught me a lot of responsibility and time management,” Buchanan said. “Growing up having to take care of horses matures you at such a young age.”

That discipline has translated seamlessly into her academic pursuits. A biomedical sciences major set to graduate this spring, Buchanan is preparing for the next phase of her life: dental school. Her equestrian experience has provided a unique advantage—one she’s highlighted in her applications.

“In dentistry, they ask about manual dexterity,” she explained. “Riding teaches you ‘feel’—understanding how subtle movements of your hands and legs impact the horse. That coordination directly connects to how dentists handle tools and apply precise pressure.”

It’s a rare intersection of athletics and professional preparation, and Buchanan has embraced it fully. Her commitment was evident last summer when she dedicated countless hours to studying for the Dental Admission Test, often sacrificing leisure time with family to stay focused on her goals.

“It was all worth it in the end,” she said.

Now, as her collegiate career nears its final chapter, the emotions are undeniable. Each meet carries added weight, each ride a reminder of how quickly the journey has passed.

“Spring semester has definitely been very emotional,” Buchanan admitted. “I’ve probably cried after every meet and will until the end.”

Yet amid the emotion lies clarity. Buchanan is determined to finish strong, not just for herself, but for her teammates and the program that helped shape her.

“I’m just really excited to do this with my team,” she said. “I’ve had time this semester to really appreciate being at the barn and focusing on riding.”

As Auburn prepares for nationals, Buchanan’s mindset reflects both gratitude and ambition. She’s not only chasing one final national championship—she’s embracing every moment that comes with it.

“The biggest thing is not taking anything for granted,” she said. “It all goes by so fast.”

In a sport defined by precision and partnership, Buchanan’s legacy at Auburn extends beyond the scoreboard. Her journey—from a young rider inspired by her sister to a leader poised for life beyond competition—serves as a blueprint for maximizing every opportunity.

As the Tigers head into the national spotlight, Caroline Buchanan isn’t just riding toward a title—she’s closing a chapter with purpose, pride, and the kind of perspective that defines champions.

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-- By Jessica Perry

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