Hurd Qualifies for Nationals

Western equestrian riders from Alfred State made an impressive showing at IHSA Semi-finals held this past weekend at West Texas A&M Horse Center. 

Three Semi-Finals are held in the same weekend with the top qualifying riders from each region competing. Colleges and Universities from across the country were represented resulting in a highly competitive show.

Four Pioneers competed in the event, captain Haleigh Hurd, Hannah Brizzee, Hannah Schaus and Amber Laibe.

• Hurd had an incredible ride and walked away with a 1^st place ribbon, trophy and belt buckle for the Individual Open Reining!  She will move on to Nationals May 4^th-7^th held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. 
• Laibe rode to well earned 6^th place in Individual Beginner Horsemanship
• Brizzee and Schaus each had remarkable rides.  

Riders who make it to this level have several qualifying steps and have proven themselves to be talented horsepeople.  The experience is a well deserved honor with Alfred State, who is coached by Rose Stayer-Ruffner, turning out hard working and prominent equestrians.