QMS Equestrian Team Triumphs at IEA Regionals

By Zhuola S. (’26)

The QMS Equestrian Team recently made history as the first Canadian team to compete in the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) Regional Finals in Tenino, WA. Four outstanding riders – Halle P. (‘27), Poppy G-C. (‘27), Emily E. (‘29), and Juliana W-S. (‘28) earned coveted spots in the upcoming Zone 9 IEA Finals and will join the QMS Varsity Team (which had already qualified) in Sherwood, OR, on March 9–10, 2024.

“IEA gives riders of all levels a chance to gain experience in the show ring without having to own their own horse,” shares Halle P. (‘27). “This unique approach has opened doors for students who may not have participated in traditional shows.”

Leading up to the competition, the team competed in IEA Shows in Washington and Oregon State. “Our original plan was to attend a single 2-day show this season so our riders could measure their skills against this unfamiliar format,” explains Coach, Indiana Wynne-Smith. “Our first show in Blaine, WA was so successful and popular with our students that our team doubled in size within a week and more competitions were added to the calendar. The excitement was contagious! The kids loved the team camaraderie aspect of the shows and working with horses they have never ridden before.”

Due to the unpredictability of the IEA format, challenges were not in short supply during the competition. “In these competitions, your horse is drawn for you, so you have no idea who you are riding until the last minute. Every ride is a bit of a gamble, not knowing if you and your horse will get along,” outlines Hannah B-S. (‘27). “We arrived early so we could watch the horses warm up and learn as much as we can about them, such as whether they are forward, capable of doing flying changes, or require spurs or crops.”

Despite the unknowns, the team performed especially well. “In our first year of competing in the IEA, every rider has placed and gained ribbons multiple times, and our Varsity Team (Grades 9-12) finished 1st,2nd or 3rd overall in each competition,” shares Hannah.

Coach Indiana expressed immense pride in the team. “I’m really proud of them. It is not easy to go and ride a horse that you’ve never ridden before, and just that alone is a challenge,” she says.

Riders are eager to return next year. “Now that we have a good understanding of how the IEA runs, we really want to capitalize on this year by hitting more competitions next year,” said Hannah B-S. (‘28).

“I anticipate us having an even better season next year,” adds Coach Indiana. “I would also like to get some of our male riders to participate, as it is open to everyone.”

Photo by Hayley Picard