University of Georgia Athletics
Senior Spotlight: Laura Malone
February 24, 2016 | Equestrian
Laura Malone | Western | Mendota Heights, Minn.
What does "Commit To The G" mean to you?
Commit to the G means that as an individual you give it your all, everyday, in all areas of academic and athletic life. You commit yourself to excellence in the weight room, the classroom, at practice, in the community and in support of your team. You do more than what is asked of you.
Who has had the most influence on your athletic career? Why?
My mom has always supported me to no end; which has only inspired me to be better, train harder, and set my bar higher. She made my dreams her own, driving me to always make her proud.
My trainers in the last few years of my youth career before Georgia, Michael Colvin and Clint Ainsworth, certainly made a lifelong impact as well. Their knowledge and guidance was unmatched by anyone I have ever had the pleasure of working with. They put a great deal of time into my development as a rider and horseman. They challenged me to overcome my weaknesses and polish my strengths.
Who is your favorite athlete, past or present, any sport?
Watching Ryan Suter of the Minnesota Wild always inspires me; he is insanely humble, works hard everyday and has such a methodical way of thinking about the game that is remarkable to watch. He has the ability to make the most complex plays look effortless. He sets the bar high and leads by example.
What pre-meet superstitions or rituals do you have?
I am a pretty introverted individual so mentally I retreat from all the pre-meet chaos. I focus on getting myself (or horse) ready, visualize my plan and prepare for what I would do if things don't go according to that plan. I do a lot of controlled breathing and just try to get to a calm, powerful place.
What is your ride out song and why?
This year I chose "Fortunate Son" by Credence Clearwater Revival. It's applicable in so many ways.
What is your favorite place on campus?
I love walking through North Campus! It has such a wonderful historic-southern charm atmosphere!
What's your favorite restaurant in Athens?
That's impossible! I love trying new food. I am not a fan of fast food or chain restaurants.
What is your favorite TV show/movie?
Since I was little, M*A*S*H has been my favorite television show.
I also like Game of Thrones, Sons of Anarchy, Will and Grace and most comedies. Action or historical-drama movies are my favorite.
If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be?
One of my passions is traveling; I spent 5 months in Europe last year, which only made the hunger to explore the world even more prominent! It is impossible to choose only one place because there is something to learn no matter where you are. Our cabin in Canada, where I grew up in the summers, will always be the place I come back to. It is a two-room log cabin on an island in the middle of nowhere... Until I was about 11 we didn't have plumbing.
If you were stranded on a desert island what three things would you bring?
Sunscreen. Nutella. A boat home.
What's something people would be surprised to know about you?
I love to bass fish. My favorite time to go is around dusk in the summer, when the bass are biting on topwater lures.
Who or what influenced the start of your riding career?
When I was 4 years old, out of the blue, I proclaimed to my mother that I wanted to drop out of preschool and ride horses. I have no idea why that idea popped into my mind- I just knew it was for me. My uncle had horses at the time so a few calls later and I had my first lesson scheduled!
