Riders Find Comfort in Common Interests
The University of Wyoming Equestrian Club gives students a chance to enjoy equestrian sports, whether they want to compete or just ride for fun. Started in the early 1990s by Karen Hansen, the club now welcomes everyone, from experienced riders to complete beginners.
“I came to school here because of the team,” says Cheyenne Mezak, a second-year member and club secretary. “I have never been on a team before and it is a very cool feeling. The horses, the coach and the friendships have made this one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience”.
The club offers both Western horsemanship and English hunt seat equitation, so riders can focus on one style or try both. Practices usually take place on Mondays or Wednesdays, with riders choosing which to ride; western or english.
Each practice is designed to help riders become more confident and adaptable. Riders switch horses to get used to different personalities and styles, which helps them handle the challenge of riding unfamiliar horses at competitions.
“You never know what horse you will draw at a competition,” said Mezak. “So we train to be adaptable and ready for any type of horse.”
The club competes in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), Zone 8, Region 5, against teams from Colorado, Utah, Nebraska, and Kansas. Each semester, the team goes to four shows: two Western and two English. Riders who qualify can also compete in regionals, zones and nationals.
Events cover Western horsemanship, ranch riding, reining and hunt seat, both on the flat and over fences. Riders earn points for themselves, but team scores also decide high point and reserve high point awards. UW’s team often returns from events with top rankings, demonstrating their hard work and teamwork.
The club is open to everyone. There is no need for any horse experience or owning a horse to join. The team uses horses from the team coach and community partners, so anyone who is interested and committed can take part, no matter their background or resources.
Member dues cover practices and most travel, keeping the club affordable for students. There are also show fees depending on how many times a rider would like to compete in IHSA.
Competition is important, but the club also values community. Riders spend time together in the arena, while traveling and at team events like holiday parties. These experiences build trust and friendship, which help the team work better together during competitions.
“I am an architectural engineer major, but I enjoy being around horses and a part of the team,” says Tabitha Long, equestrian club member. “Even though we all come from different backgrounds and experiences, we still connect and share our passion for horses.”
Practicing in Wyoming has its challenges, especially with the weather. Harsh winters can affect schedules and travel, but the team adjusts by holding indoor sessions at the Wolf Ranch & Arena and Spur Ridge Equestrian Center. Flexibility and resilience are important to the club, and members learn to handle both real and figurative storms.
The club is run entirely by students. Officers handle logistics, communication and work with the coaches. This setup lets students take charge of their experience, build leadership skills and help shape the club’s culture.
Officers also act as mentors, helping new members learn about equestrian sports. The equestrian club also offers an opportunity to get away from everyday school life, and many use it as an outlet.
“I knew if I did not join something in college, I would be very depressed, “ said Mezak. “I would not be able to survive college without some type of horse exposure.”
Over time, the University of Wyoming Equestrian Club has become known for excellence, inclusion and heart. Riders leave with more than just ribbons and buckles. They gain lifelong friendships and a deep respect for the horses, coaches and teammates who shaped their journey.
For students looking for a mix of athleticism, leadership, and community, the UW Equestrian Club is a great choice.
