UW Competes in Slidin’ Daze at CSU
On October 19, the University of Wyoming Ranch Horse Team competed in the Slidin Daze CSU Silver Jubilee. Members competed in various events, including stock horse pleasure, stock horse trail, stock horse reining and working cow horse.
The show ran for about twelve hours, but the team kept a positive attitude and cheered each other on throughout. Their commitment to supporting one another truly sets them apart. No one is ever left behind, and everyone helps out when needed.
It was a challenging show for the team, but several members still earned ribbons.
“The show went pretty well for everyone,” said Emma McCabe, team member. “As a team we had a few downsides but the show was pretty fun overall.”
Bailey Ceder, a junior at Wyoming, took second place overall in the junior horse division. She and her horse worked well together in every event and finished strong in the trail and pleasure classes.
Mikayla Alexander, new to the team, placed third in the non-pro division with her horse George. Even after a fall during the cow work, she bounced back and did well in the pleasure and trail classes. Her determination also highlights the excellent coaching from Justin Dory.
The novice division had a lot of competitors, but McCabe, a senior studying Agricultural Business, still placed sixth with her horse Dakota. She rode consistently all day, which is a good sign for the last fall show and the upcoming spring season.
Austin Wickerath, another newcomer in the novice division, finished tenth. He is already helping the team earn points and, as the only male member, brings fresh ideas and a different perspective.
The team’s achievements go beyond winning ribbons. Their success comes from strong student leadership and teamwork. Erin Smith, the team president and a senior in Animal Science, has been key in organizing practices, planning travel, and helping new members.
“I am looking forward to more team success and bonding with our members as the season continues,” said Smith.
The team welcomes riders of all experience levels to apply. They look for horsemanship, dedication, and a willingness to learn when choosing new members.
After competing in several fall shows, the Wyoming Ranch Horse Team is getting ready for the last show of the season. They are also excited about the spring circuit, which will feature larger competitions and the chance to qualify for national events. Team members are practicing their routines, reviewing rules, and setting goals for the coming months.
“We will be adamantly working towards team and individual goals at practices leading up to our spring season,” said Smith.
If you want to join or support the team, contact coach Justin Dory. No worries if horse ownership is an issue; there are on-foot memberships where members assist with moving cows, helping coach, and supporting teammates at shows. You can also follow the team’s updates and highlights on Instagram (@uwyoranchhorseteam) and Facebook.
Whether they are competing or out on the trail, the University of Wyoming Ranch Horse Team shows the college’s spirit by being resilient, resourceful, and always ready to ride.
