Randolph-Macon College issued the following announcement.
Over Memorial Day weekend, the Randolph-Macon Eventing team earned their best finish to date at the USEA’s (United States Eventing Association) 2021 Intercollegiate Championships held at the Virginia International Horse Trials in Lexington, Virginia.
Team Captain Sydney Guy (2021, Education), Morgyn Johnson (2022, Business Management/Communication), Holly Shade (2024, Chemistry) and Austin Skeens (2023, Business) ended the weekend in third place among the 21 teams vying for the title. In addition, the entire R-MC team tied with Auburn University for the coveted Spirit Award. The second R-MC team, composed of members Kendall Benner, Katherine DeLaney, and Julia Fugate, also finished in the top 10.
On Sunday, the Randolph-Macon College Yellow Jackets were leading in advance of the show jumping phase of competition. Though a couple of unfortunate rails kept the Yellow Jacket team from securing the overall win, the team finished in third on a competitive score of 98.99. Fewer than five penalty points separated the top three teams.
“I am so thrilled for this team,” said coach Ashley Adams. “Despite the difficulties of this past year, these student-athletes have continued to show up, work hard, and support each other. It is rewarding to see their efforts recognized, especially when you look at the large flagship universities we are competing against. We have a top-notch program driven by some amazing young people.”
Seven horse and rider combinations competed in the event. The R-MC contingency included members Morgan Hoyt, Sarah Meek, and Grace Bakeman, who volunteered and spent their weekend spreading Yellow Jacket pride, and lending a helping hand. Member Alex Holiday also volunteered.
In addition to the team results, the individual competition was full of personal bests for many riders. Morgyn Johnson and horse Peter Parker GS added nothing to their dressage score to secure a second-place finish in their first FEI competition. Additionally, Austin Skeens and horse What Gives finished just outside the top 10 in this division as well. Katherine DeLaney and For Pete’s Sake took home a 4th place finish in the Open Beginner Novice. Julia Fugate and On Stage had a personal best weekend in the beginner novice, adding nothing to their dressage score.
“It’s hard to believe we started this program only 5 years ago with two students” commented program Director Dana Lesesne. “This year, seeing these students excel in the classroom while pursuing their riding goals and making memories for a lifetime is what it is all about. What a finale to the year!”
The Randolph-Macon Eventing Team will continue to train this summer and will welcome an exciting group of freshmen in the fall.
To learn more about R-MC Equestrian Program, please visit the R-MC’s Equestrian Program web site, or contact danalesesne@rmc.edu.
Original source can be found here.
Source: Randolph-Macon College
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