QMS team fourth at U.S. interscholastic equestrian event

The QMS Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) Team represented their school, and Canada, with confidence and strength at the recent IEA Zone 9 Finals in Sherwood, Ore. recently, according to the school’s Hayley Picard.

“After a long trip south, the riders had an exciting experience competing at the stunning Devonwood Equestrian Center where they joined riders from six states (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming) in a busy two-day competition,” Picard noted. “QMS families and riders cheered in support of these courageous riders as they showcased their skills in front of a packed house.”

On Day 1 as individuals, varsity intermediate rider Halle Plester earned a seventh place ribbon in the over fences event and also had a strong ride in the equitation flat event. Varsity novice Poppy Garrad-Cole also had a strong ride in the flat event. Julianna Wynne-Smith, a future intermediate rider, placed second in flat round and seventh in over fences while futures novice Emily Efraimsson earned seventh in her over fences event.

On Day 2, it was time for the QMS Varsity Team to shine.

“Parents and supporters were present as QMS riders and their teammates, made history as the first Canadian team to compete at this prestigious competition and there was plenty to smile about as QMS riders placed in all divisions throughout the day.

“After the assignment of horses through a live draw, athletes prepared to show their equitation skills among the best IEA riders in six U.S. states,” Picard explained. “The excitement kept building as each rider was named to the ribbon allotment and the team earned points towards the final point positions.”

Following a solid varsity open flat round by Maggy Buttner-Danyliw that earned her seventh, Halle Plester stepped it up further to place third in her varsity intermediate flat round.

“Then things got really exciting when Maggy was called back into the ring for a ride-off in her over fences class—placing second,” Picard said.

After the cheering settled, it was Halle’s turn competing in her over fences class, where her efforts earned her first place. The QMS fan corner was on its feet next as Hannah Blair-Smith had an outstanding varsity novice Over Fences round to place her third while Hannah Shaw worked with a spicy horse in flat to earn eighth.

Coach, Indiana Wynne-Smith, and the team were ecstatic as the final varsity team placements were announced.

“Out of 13 Varsity teams, Queen Margaret’s School earned fourth overall,” Picard said. “QMS would like to thank all riders, school families, classmates, financial donors, school administration, and community supporters for believing in these dedicated riders and helping them achieve an incredibly successful debut season in the IEA. Next season will be even more exciting.”