Members of Stone Bridge Farm's (Lexington, VA) middle school and high school Equestrian Teams traveled to Lake Erie College in Concord, Ohio last week for the 2009 Interscholastic Equestrian Association National Championships.

Local students Carly Williams, Olivia Fleming, Katie Fisher and Grace Glover qualified for the National Championships by competing throughout the year at competitions against riding teams from other schools in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania. "Back in September, we never would have thought we'd make it all the way to Regionals, never mind Nationals!," said Williams. Glover agreed. "It was great to get there, and even better to see that we could hold our own against some of the best riding teams in the country."

Over twenty riding teams from across the United States competed at last week's Championships. On the final day, Glover took first place in the High School Varsity Open division, helping her High School Team reach Reserve Champion overall. Williams took second place in the Middle School novice division. Fisher and Williams scored fourth and fifth, respectively, in the horsemanship competition. "The written test was voluntary, and 210 riders chose to take this test. It was a huge honor to have two riders in the top 10 placings!" says coach Lilly deSousa.

The riding teams are welcoming new members for fall 2009. "The great thing about IEA team riding is that you don't have to have your own horse or equipment, and riders of all levels are able to take part," says deSousa. "It's a fun way for students to progress in their riding and compete as a team!" Interested riders should contact deSousa at Stone Bridge Farm, in Natural Bridge, for information about joining the team.

Southern States salutes its young equestrians and wishes them the best in all their future endeavors!