Over the weekend, the Spokane Sport Horse Spring H.T. witnessed an event of epic proportions. The IEL Team Challenge saw a dynamic group of fifth through 12th graders from Area VII and western Canada come together to compete, and let me tell you, it was phenomenal!
Inland Northwest Eventers Team #1 stole the show, clinching the gold and leaving everyone in awe of their remarkable skills. Not to be outdone, Team Chaos #1 and the Powerpuff Girls Scramble team also delivered standout performances and earned well-deserved recognition.
What made this event even more special was that it marked the debut of the USEA Interscholastic Eventing League (IEL) on the West Coast. Created in 2020, the league aims to unite junior riders and foster a supportive community for young eventers. The IEL Team Challenge at Spokane Sport Horse Farm was all about camaraderie and fun, kicking off with an ice cream social and an exciting arts and crafts project. The young riders had a blast decorating poster boards with their teammates, indulging in ice cream bars, and even getting the chance to walk the cross-country course with a seasoned professional.
But the fun didn’t end there. Everyone went home with ribbons and loot bags filled with goodies, making each competitor feel like a champion. Nikki Keye, one of the event organizers, praised the host venue and fellow organizers for creating a truly special experience for the young riders.
Inland Northwest Eventers #1 truly wowed the crowd with their exceptional skills, securing the top spot. Team Chaos #1 claimed the reserve champion title, and the Powerpuff Girls Scramble Team proudly took home the third-place ribbons, proving that these young eventers are a force to be reckoned with.
This event was just the beginning for the IEL, and the future looks incredibly bright for junior eventers. The USEA has ambitious plans for the league, including the inaugural IEL Championship in 2024, which is poised to be a monumental event.
A huge congratulations is in order for all the competitors who poured their hearts into the Spokane Sport Horse Spring H.T. You all were absolutely amazing! A special thank you to the event organizers and everyone who contributed to making the IEL Team Challenge a resounding success – this is just the start of something truly extraordinary.
With young riders of this caliber at the helm, the future of eventing is undoubtedly in good hands. Look out world, the next generation of eventers has arrived, and they’re ready to shake up the sport in the best way possible!
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