QMS rider qualifies for equestrian nationals

In a historic moment for Queen Margaret’s School (QMS), Julie Wynne-Smith has reached an unprecedented milestone by becoming the first Canadian rider and first QMS student to qualify for the prestigious Interscholastic Equestrian Association National Championships.

This remarkable achievement occurred March 8-9 during the IEA Zone 9 Championships in Lynden, WA, where Julie competed in the Varsity Intermediate Flat class.

"Julie’s performance was nothing short of outstanding," wrote school spokesperson Hayley Picard in a press release. "After completing a beautiful first phase, she faced off in a tense tiebreaker ride-off to secure first place and earn a coveted spot."

The IEA Nationals take place next month in St. Louis, MO.

“We are beyond proud of Julie's incredible achievement,” said QMS coach Indiana Wynne-Smith. “Her hard work, dedication, and poise under pressure were on full display throughout the competition. This moment is a significant milestone, not only for Julie but also for our program and for equestrian sports in Canada.”

After her historic win, Julie continued to achieve success in the Individual competition earning an eighth-place finish in the Varsity Intermediate Over Fences 2'6".

Fellow QMS students also participated in the Individual competitions with Maggy Buttner-Danyliw earning eighth in the Varsity Open Over Fences 2’6” and Rowan Picard and Reese Smith placing just outside the top eight in their respective events.

In the team competition on day two, QMS showcased its equestrian talent with a large squad that exceeded its 2024 participation. The Royals team had a strong showing with the following individual placings contributing to the overall team results:

Hannah Blair-Smith – second (JV Novice Over Fences); Thea Hagen – third (Futures Walk Trot Canter); Julie Wynne-Smith – third (Varsity Intermediate Flat);
Emily Efraimsson – fourth (Future Intermediate Over Fences) and fifth (Flat); Adele Bartfai – fifth (Futures Flat); Neva Crisp – fifth (Futures Over Fences); Clara Lake – fifth (Varsity Intermediate Over Fences); Poppy Garrad-Cole – fifth (JV Novice Flat); Maggy Buttner-Danyliw – sixth (Varsity Open Over Fences 2’6”);
Halle Plester – seventh (Varsity Open Flat); and Reese Smith – seventh (Varsity Walk Trot Canter).

With their strong performances, QMS earned fifth place overall for both its Varsity Team and Futures Teams.

"We are so proud of how our entire IEA team performed, and we continue to see our equestrians grow and excel at every competition,” said coach Wynne-Smith. “This weekend was a testament to the spirit and work ethic of our riders. Julie’s qualification for the nationals is just the beginning of what we know will be an exciting journey ahead."