Meghan Smith '09 competes in national equestrian show
May 23, 2007
Meghan Smith '09 of Thompson, Conn., recently had an experience most college equestrian riders dream of--a chance to participate in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) national championship show. Smith was one of 500 riders (out of 7,500 in IHSA) to earn a ticket to the nationals, held in Springfield, Mass., this May.
Smith has been riding horses since she was 10 years old, and has continued to ride competitively at Wheaton. As an English major with a concentration in creative writing, Smith has had to juggle academics and riding, but does so with the support of her coach and professors. "Everyone has been wonderful," she said.
"It means a lot to our team to make it all the way to the national finals," said head coach Amanda Hare. "Each year that we have riders move on to the nationals, we gain more momentum and focus, and also more recognition on and off campus. I believe that being recognized as successful equestrians helps our team members to be successful students."
The Wheaton equestrian team was established in 1872 and has a long history of success, despite its club, not varsity, status. The spirit of the team and the dedication of its riders make Wheaton a powerful force in the ring. During the season, the team travels 45 minutes to a barn in Rhode Island for biweekly practices. Wheaton competes 10 times a season against other powerhouses such as Boston University and Wellesley College.
Qualifying for nationals is a long process. As riders win ribbons at competitions, they accumulate points. Once a rider "points out," according to Smith, they qualify for the regional horse show and compete against the top riders from Massachusetts. Only the top riders from regionals qualify for zones (New England riders), and then only the top riders from zones go to nationals. In short, Smith beat numerous riders from varsity programs throughout New England. Not a small feat.
"Meghan has the talent and drive needed to be the best," said Dave Begley, director of intramurals, recreation and club sports. "I am very proud of her and the equestrian team's commitment to the sport and all they have accomplished over the years."
Smith competed in the flat zone event at nationals, which basically means no jumps, and riders are judged based on form and position. Although Smith did not do as well as she had hoped, the entire experience was worthwhile. "It was wonderful just to have the opportunity to participate and to watch some really great riders from all over the country," she said. "It was incredible to be a part of such a huge show, and to represent Wheaton."