The NDSU western equestrian team received the high point team award and NDSU rider Nicole Anderson won the high point rider competition as the team completed its regular season Feb. 21 at the NDSU Equine Center.
NDSU won the overall high point team title for 2014-15 in the region. The win earns the team the opportunity to compete in team competition at the semifinals in Ohio March 21-22. NDSU riders who will represent the team are:
- Reining – Janna Rice, a senior from Maddock, North Dakota
- Open horsemanship – Nicole Anderson, a freshman from Fergus Falls, Minnesota
- Advanced horsemanship – Hannah Bucheger, a junior from Andover, Minnesota
- Novice horsemanship – Blaine Novak, a senior from Fordville, North Dakota
- Intermediate horsemanship – Courtney Bolstad, a junior from Fergus Falls, Minnesota
- Beginner horsemanship – Allee Lee, a sophomore from Lino Lakes, Minnesota
NDSU also had four riders who earned spots in the individual class competitions at semifinals. They placed first or second in regional competition on Feb. 22 at NDSU.
- Reining – Anderson
- Open horsemanship – Rice
- Intermediate horsemanship – Angie Norwig, a sophomore from Hampton, Minnesota
- Beginner horsemanship – Brogan Novak, a freshman from Fordville, North Dakota
In addition, Anderson won the overall high point rider title for the region, which earns her the right to compete at the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association National Horse Show hosted in Massachusetts in May.
"We have a strong group of riders moving on to represent NDSU at semifinals competition," said Tara Swanson, the team's coach. "This year's team has a strong group of seniors who have led by example and pushed each team member to be their best. There is a good mix of returning team member leadership and ability with fresh new talent and enthusiasm, which has resulted in a well-rounded, competitive team."
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