NRHA selects four riders from a pool of collegiate NRHA members. This year a record number of applicants were evaluated on a number of criteria including NRHA points, earnings and show history. The individuals selected to compete on behalf of NRHA are:
Jenna Blumer, Oklahoma State University
Jesse Gentile, The Ohio State University
McKenzie Lantz, University of Georgia
Austin Griffith, The Ohio State University
Four individuals are selected to represent NCAA Varsity Equestrian competitors. The riders are evaluated by a committee of collegiate coaches who recommend the top four reining athletes. The riders selected to compete on behalf of Varsity Equestrian are:
Page Monfore, Auburn University
Rachel Houchin, Oklahoma State University
Kristen Hansen, Auburn University
Becca Haaland, University of Georgia
The Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) is represented by the top four placing individuals in Open Reining. This year, the qualifying competition was held in Lexington, Kentucky at the IHSA National Championships. The riders who qualified to compete on behalf of IHSA are:
Rebekah Irish, Black Hawk College
Kaitlin Hoffman, Cazenovia College
Alissa Trucco, Ohio University
Jason Romney, Utah State University
Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of the excitement. The success of this competition depends on horses being donated for the collegiate riders. Fourteen horses will be needed, one for each of the 12 competitors plus 2 alternate horses. As a thank you, each donated horse’s stall fees will be refunded after the Derby.
“The Collegiate Reining Championship is a showcase for some of the best horses and young riders in the sport of Reining,” said Ollie Griffith, IHSA National Steward and NRHA Judge. “This program gives owners and competitors a chance to highlight their skills on a national level.”
For more information or if you are interested in helping this great cause or know of someone who is, please contact Shianne Megel at the NRHA office at 405-946-7400.