Horseback riding, although intimidating to some, is an awesome experience offered by most colleges. Equestrian teams, or IHSA (Intercollegiate Horse Show Association) teams are very popular, and a great middle ground between club sports and super-competitive sports. Need more convincing? Here are eight great reasons.
Male or female, 17 years old or 23, freshman or super senior – it doesn’t matter! You just have to be enrolled at the college to join.
Equestrian teams are one of the few teams where it looks better to have riders from all backgrounds. There are multiple levels of competition, so complete beginners are welcomed, as well as people who have been riding since they could walk.
Looking for a new way to meet people outside of classes and parties? This is the place!
For those of you who have never even been on a horse, it is a unique experience. Why wouldn’t you want to feel like you’re flying around an arena, working together with a 1500 pound animal?
Although you are competing by yourself on your assigned horse for individual points, teams are also ranked. So, if you have a bad ride, the rest of the team can make up for it. If you have a good ride, both you and your team get to celebrate!
Wanted to ride earlier in your life, but couldn’t afford it? IHSA teams usually have contracts with local barns, so lessons become more affordable due to group rates. Also, you don’t need your own horse to participate– the barn provides them!
College life accompanies so many potentially stressful situations– papers, relationships, friendships, exams and dorm life. Riding is a great way to relieve built-up stress, as it is a form of exercise. Working together with your horse is a great way to restore inner peace.
During shows, part of the judging is based upon appearance. You’ll learn to appreciate the beauty of hair nets.
If you’re tired of sitting around in class or being cooped up in the library to study, riding is the perfect excuse to get up and get outside.
If you’re bored with your own student body, competitions are the perfect way to meet students at other colleges, who share similar interests to you. So what are you waiting for? Take a chance and join your school’s equestrian team.
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