PHN Equestrian District Champs 2015

Sports

By Karson Schenk
Husky Herald Reporter

  PHN Equestrian has done it again. Bringing home a district win for the 3rd year in a row. “We were pretty confident in our abilities. At the 4h fair we are able to see where everyone is skill-wise; Everyone did really well, so we became very confident as a team,” Sara Jex (‘17) said.

  In early September Northern’s official season begins, ending with regionals in early October. While their season may seem short, members put in more work than most other sports could imagine.

 “The season is basically all year round. We practice individually, and meet regularly as a team with our coach,” Taryn Frey (‘17) said. Teamwork is crucial for success in equestrian, despite the fact that each member practices on their own time.

   Members practice where their horse is kept, such as local stables in the area or even a stable at their own home. Unlike most other team sports equestrian doesn’t meet as a team each day, however each rider puts in at least one hour of training with their horses daily.  

  Northern Equestrian’s members are proud of the past and excited about the future. “(We can keep our winning streak going) because next year we have members from middle school coming up,” Taryn Frey (‘17) said.

  The local 4h fair in Goodells county park provides younger riders preparation for high school level competition. 4h club serves as a base for most of Northern’s riders, and is a year-round youth group that promotes and prepares youth for success in several animal showing categories including equestrian.  

  Northern’s next goal is states next year, competing with some of the most prestigious equestrian training in Michigan through the AQHA and NBHA. “I hope to go to states next year, like we did my freshman year.” Sara Jex (‘17) said.

  With increasing confidence and a strong future, the odds for reaching states continue to grow for Northern Equestrian.