Seniors on the Ball State University Equestrian Team can hang their hat and chaps on a successful season, placing higher in competitions than in the past few years.
The team placed second at its last competition of the season, hosted by St. Mary-of-the-Woods College. Junior communications major Doug Mohr placed first in the Advanced Division in the morning show at the competition in St. Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.
In the Intermediate Division, Maryn McCrocklin qualified for the Regional IHSA Championship held Feb. 26.
Senior Emily Hawkinson, vice president of the Western riders division of the Equestrian Team, said she anticipates Ball State earning a second-place ribbon at the regional competition. In the past few years, Ball State has placed fifth in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association.
Although McCrocklin will be the only Ball State representative at regionals, team awards are given out based on the entire season.
Hawkinson said she was sad about the season coming to an end Saturday. She placed second and fourth in her competitions Saturday. She said she started riding horses in third grade but didn't compete in show until she came to college.
"[It] was hard, but I ended on a good note," Hawkinson said. "Just to know the team is going to place second overall, I was excited we had a competitive year."
The team competes in Zone 9, Region 1, which includes teams from Indiana universities such as Indiana University, Purdue University and St. Mary-of-the-Woods. Parkland College and the University of Illinois are also in the region.
Hawkins said the Equestrian Team is one of the most expensive sports clubs. Lessons cost $275 for a semester. It also costs $25 for each class competition.
In her four years on the team, Hawkinson has kept her same riding outfit. She said the gaudy shirts with rhinestones, sparkly belts and chaps make her feel like a cowgirl, but it makes the competition fun.
There are two divisions of the Equestrian Team — Western and Huntseat. Each has about 13 members.
Equestrian member Jared Bramer said the team accomplished a lot this year and he's not disappointed.
"I'm going to keep practicing to be fresh and ready for the fall," he said. "Competition is going to be fierce."
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