USC Aiken Western Riders Bring Ribbons Home

Aiken, SC (12/01/2018) — The University of South Carolina Aiken Intercollegiate Horse Show Association's Western Team participated in a collegiate contest at Middle Georgia State University.

Coached by Jeff Temple, the team competed against 10 other teams. USC Aiken came into the show with only two team members who were up against bigger schools with larger teams with more mature equestrian programs.

Other competitors included: Clemson, Coastal Carolina, Florida State University, Georgia Southern, Lander, Middle Georgia State, University of Central Florida, University of Florida, Wesleyan College, and the University of South Florida.

"I am very proud of our team. They exhibited excellent sportsmanship as well as great horsemanship, and hard work was the key to their success," Temple said.

Rider Lexi Whisenant came in first in the advanced horsemanship division and qualified for regionals, which take place at the University of North Florida in March.

This marked Katie Wolfe's first show, which proved successful as she placed third in the beginner walk-jog event.

"This was my first show, and I didn't know what to expect," she said.

"With the help of Jeff, our coach, and Lexi, our team captain, I brought home third place. I couldn't have done it without them, and I can't wait for our next show."

The next western riding competition is slated for February at the University of Central Florida.

The USC Aiken western riding program is a relatively new one that is growing in popularity on campus.

"We are very happy that we have a western team as an option for USC Aiken students," Temple said. "The team gives everyone an opportunity to learn to ride and compete in a fun and challenging format.

"We are hoping that the western team continues to grow and we're proud to be a part of it."

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