High School Equestrian Teams Offer Unique Opportunities for Young TWH Enthusiasts

By Sarah Gee
©Voice, June 2007

2006 District Championship team from Canby High School.

As Tennessee Walking Horses continue to expand in popularity as all-around versatility mounts across the country, new doors are being opened to our great breed. One such door is the high school equestrian team. Several teams across the country have accepted Tennessee Walking Horses as viable mounts for their all-breed competitions. At team meets Walking Horses can be seen competing against numerous other breeds and winning. Classes include everything from Saddleseat Equitation, to Break-away Roping, to In Hand Obstacle Relay.

A prime example of the Walking Horse’s success on high school equestrian teams can be found in Oregon where Walking Horses are regulars at team meets. The Canby High School team, which won it district championship in 2006, includes three Tennessee Walking Horses. These horses and their riders have each experienced great success in not only Saddleseat competition but in other division as well. In fact, Walking Horses were part of the State Championship In Hand Obstacle Team fielded by Canby in 2006. Students from Canby report that the Walking Horses are very popular at the meets with many students and coaches from other teams requesting test rides aboard the smooth gaited mounts. With nearly 125 high schools in Oregon fielding equestrian teams, the possibilities for positive exposure in this venue alone is huge. 

Trailer decorations for the state championships are a tradition among Oregon high school equestrian teams.

An excellent way to get the word out about our great breed, any high school in the nation can form an equestrian team. In most cases, equestrian athletes earn varsity letters and are treated just like any other varsity team athlete. Those interested in forming an equestrian team at their high school need to discuss the possibility with their school and with their school board. The Oregon High School Equestrian Teams website (www.ohset.com) includes great tips on how to go about forming a team.