Medieval Times Names 2016 Rose Parade Guest Rider

BUENA PARK, CA--(Marketwired - December 22, 2015) - Pasadena native Katherine Sears grew up attending the Rose Parade. Like countless others, she sat each year in the stands along Orange Grove Boulevard, wishing for the chance to join one of the groups proudly riding down the parade route. Sears' dream almost became a reality when she made it to the finals of the 2010 Rose Court, but she says riding with Medieval Times in this year's parade triumphs over those past wishes.

"Never in a million years did I think I would be a princess in the Rose Parade, riding a majestic stallion alongside a court of handsome knights," said Sears, the daughter of David Sears and former Entertainment Tonight co-host Jann Carl. 

Having ridden since she was nine years old, Sears brings nearly 15 years of equestrienne experience to this year's Rose Parade. As a junior and amateur, she competed in the 3' and 3'6" hunter, jumper and equitation divisions. In addition to winning many competition championships, Sears won awards from the San Fernando Valley Horse Show Association and the California Professional Horseman's Association. She was the 2010 recipient of the Lydia F. Theurkauf Memorial Sportsmanship Award.

Sears is an alumna of American University in Washington, DC, where she studied political science. After graduating with honors, American University hired her to be the School of Professional & Extended Studies Bridge Programs Coordinator, where she has spent the last year directing the university's premiere abroad program for first-year students in Thessaloniki, Greece.

"Medieval Times inspires all to believe in honor, bravery and chivalry," said Pedro Goite, general manager at Medieval Times, Buena Park. "Katherine Sears has inspired us through her academic, equestrienne and volunteer accomplishments. She exemplifies the Medieval Times story."

To prepare for her role, Sears met with Medieval Times Horse Trainer Redha Gharsa to find the perfect Pure Spanish horse. She was fitted with a Medieval Times princess costume by the wardrobe department, and practiced with the Medieval Times precision equestrian unit.

"The 2016 Rose Parade's theme really rings true for me," said Sears. "Riding in the Rose Parade, as a member of Medieval Times Royal Court ...I believe I've found my adventure!"

Sears will join 11 other members of the Medieval Times equestrian team at the 2016 Rose Parade this New Year's Day. Tune in starting at 8 a.m. to catch Katherine Sears as she debuts in her role as a Medieval Times princess. 

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