BERLIN – Maplewood Farm’s Upper School IEA Team has qualified as a team for the Hunt Seat National Finals for the first time ever. The team’s success is evidence of their hard work and dedication, and it is a significant achievement for both the riders and the farm.
The IEA – short for Interscholastic Equestrian Association – is a unique organization that promotes equestrian competition for middle and high school students. The association offers riders the ability to compete individually as well as part of a team, regardless of their riding level or experience.
IEA is a unique showing opportunity as riders do not have to own or lease their own horse to compete, which is required for ordinary horse showing. Instead, the hosting team will provide horses, which are then assigned randomly.
The Hunt Seat National Finals will occur at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Tryon, NC, from April 26 to 30. The competition will feature a variety of events, including equitation on the flat and jumping over fences. The riders will be judged on their riding ability and horsemanship skills in these events.
While Maplewood Farm has had riders compete individually at finals in the past, this is the first time the whole team has qualified. Maplewood Farm’s Upper School Team will be one of the approximately 550 teams competing in Tryon.
“We are thrilled to have our High School Team representing Maplewood Farm at the Hunt Seat National Finals,” said Owner of Maplewood Farm Tamara Johnston. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our riders, and we are proud of their hard work and dedication. We know they will represent us well and we can’t wait to see them compete.”
Overall, Maplewood Farm’s Upper School IEA Team’s success highlights the opportunities that the IEA offers to young riders. It is a testament to the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and hard work in the equestrian arena, and a source of pride for the entire Maplewood Farm community. The farm wishes the team the best of luck in their upcoming competition!
