The Intercollegiate Horse Show Association “IHSA” provides college riders of all skills the opportunity to compete individually and as teams in competition. It was founded on the principle that any college student should be able to participate in horse shows regardless of his or her riding ability or financial status. IHSA offers six levels of western riding, beginner through open/reining. IHSA membership includes 10,000+ students and more than 400 colleges and universities across the United States and Canada.
In IHSA, the students do not bring their own horses to the competition. Instead, the host college provides all horses. The riders then participate in a “draw” to determine their mounts. Once assigned, the rider will mount his/her horse, adjust stirrups and enter the show ring. It is not necessary to be an equestrian studies major to participate on the team. Many riders attend the University for a variety of other degrees and compete on the team.
Cost/Expenses:
The University of Findlay covers all varsity team travel and showing expenses. The team member is required to supply approved show attire.
Tryouts:
Tryouts are held over three evenings. Each evening is dedicated to certain divisions. You try out in the division you would be showing in.
Fundraising:
The Western IHSA Team has a fundraiser each fall selling ads that help defer the cost of team jackets. The team runs an IEA Show at the UF facilities and has an Invitational in the Spring to add to their fundraising efforts.
The UF Western Equestrian Team members are encouraged to give back to the community. They donate their portion of the 50/50 from each IHSA show held at UF to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. The team members also donate time at the City Mission.