Cleveland High School student earns world champion saddlebred exhibitor

Pearson Waller / Cleveland City Schools

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) — A junior at Cleveland High School earned world champion status at a horse show in Louisville, Kentucky.

Pearson Waller won the Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited class and Championship at the World’s Championship Horse Show at the Kentucky State Fair.

This win gives Waller the title of ‘world champion Saddlebred exhibitor’.

Pearson Waller and her Mother / Cleveland City Schools

According to Cleveland Schools, Waller has had a love for Saddlebreds at a young age.

“When I heard my name called as the world champion, I was in total shock. It was an incredible and surreal moment, but more than anything, it was so much fun. Competing and doing what I love at this level is an amazing experience, and I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way,” said Waller.

After earning this title, Waller is starting to prepare for one more competition.

Waller wants to continue being close to what she loves and become either a horse trainer or a horse show photographer.

“Pearson’s achievements in the equestrian world are truly remarkable. She embodies the values of hard work and perseverance that we strive to instill in all our students. Her success is an inspiration to her peers and a source of pride for our entire district,” said Director of Schools for Cleveland City Schools, Dr. Jeff Elliott.