Bardstown Native Earns Big 12 Equestrian Honors at Oklahoma State

Emma Filiatreau named Big 12 Reining Rider of the Year after dominant 7-1-1 season

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:50am

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Emma Filiatreau, a Bardstown native and junior at Oklahoma State University, has been named the Big 12 Reining Rider of the Year after an impressive 7-1-1 season that included 5 Most Outstanding Performer (MOP) awards. Filiatreau, a 2023 graduate of Bethlehem High School, is working towards a Master's degree in Ag Business at Oklahoma State.

Why it matters

Filiatreau's achievement highlights the success of student-athletes from small towns like Bardstown competing at the highest levels of collegiate sports. Her award also showcases the strength of Oklahoma State's equestrian program and the university's ability to attract top talent from across the country.

The details

Filiatreau earned the Big 12 Reining Rider of the Year award after posting a dominant 7-1-1 season record and picking up 5 Most Outstanding Performer (MOP) honors, meaning she was named the top performer in over half of her rides. She capped off her season by winning the Big 12 Championship final, earning her 30th career victory.

  • Filiatreau is a junior at Oklahoma State University.
  • She graduated from Bethlehem High School in Bardstown, Kentucky in 2023.
  • Filiatreau was named the Big 12 Reining Rider of the Year in March 2026.

The players

Emma Filiatreau

A Bardstown native and junior at Oklahoma State University, Filiatreau was named the Big 12 Reining Rider of the Year after a dominant 7-1-1 season that included 5 Most Outstanding Performer awards.

Kip and Leticia Filiatreau

Emma Filiatreau's parents.

Elaine Filiatreau and Chris and Carlene Ballard

Emma Filiatreau's grandparents.

Oklahoma State University

The university where Emma Filiatreau competes on the equestrian team and is working towards a Master's degree in Ag Business.

Bethlehem High School

The high school Emma Filiatreau graduated from in 2023 before attending Oklahoma State University.

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What they’re saying

“I am honored to get this award and grateful the team has allowed for such opportunities.”

— Emma Filiatreau, Oklahoma State University Equestrian Team Member

The takeaway

Emma Filiatreau's success as a student-athlete from a small town like Bardstown, Kentucky, competing at the highest levels of collegiate equestrian demonstrates the talent and dedication of young people from rural communities. Her award also highlights the strength of Oklahoma State's equestrian program in developing top-tier talent.