Not all horseplay is frowned upon

Sophomore and co-captain, Dianna Harris, competes as a part of Thrinity’s Equestrian Team at the Tulane University Show held on Oct. 16-17. Photo by James Shultz.

Living in a city, riding horses isn’t necessarily a common pastime, but for Trinity’s Equestrian team, it is just another day at practice for a tournament.

“The [Equestrian] team’s actually been around for a really long time-at least ten years. But this year, we’re trying to revamp it and have twice as many members,” said sophomore and
captain Rachel Pauerstein.

It is a year-long season with four main competitions each semester.  Some of the schools we’ve competed against include, but are not limited to: Tulane, West Texas A&M, Rice and Texas State.

“It is a lot of fun… because you just meet a lot of people.  It [is] a really friendly atmosphere,” Pauerstein said.

The team practices at Bulverde, about half an hour away from Trinity’s campus, and having your own horse is not necessary.  According to Pauerstein, many people join the team with little to no riding experience, but it is easy to fall in love with the sport, your teammates and of course, your trusty steed.

“The thing is the horses come first, above all.  A joined love of horses drives it all,” said sophomore and new member Kelsey Toms.

There are two main styles of Equestrian competitions: English and Western.  English includes jumping, technique with riding the horse and overall appearance.  Western entails ranch-work games such as roping and barrel racing.

“When I think of English [style] and Equestrian, I think stuck-up snobs, but everyone [has] been very nice, very great people,” said junior Jake Shultz.

Though a co-ed sport, Shultz is the only male on the team.  Equestrian, though it sounds fun to just hang out and ride horses, can get quite expensive.  Yet, Trinity offers a special deal.

“This is probably the most affordable, easiest way you [will] ever get to ride,” Toms said. “Our lessons are significantly cheaper than anything you [will] find… for the quality.”

If you are interested in joining the Equestrian team or you have any questions regarding the sport, contact sophomore Kelsey Toms or sophomore Rachel Pauerstein.