Equestrian Teams Find Success at Regionals

Aiken, SC (03/25/2022) — The USC Aiken Polo Team recently participated in the United States Polo Association's Division 1 East Regionals hosted by the University of Virginia. Captain Kaylin Bender was awarded the sportsmanship award.

The team is open to men and women of all experience levels and participates in the United States Polo Association's Intercollegiate Tournaments. The USC Aiken team plays against schools in the Southeastern region during the regular season and nationally when qualified.

The team attracts a variety of players, some with their own string and others new to the sport. Horses are provided for players to practice and compete on for those without their own. Practices are held weekly at the New Bridge Polo and Country Club arena. Outside of the spring intercollegiate season, players often participate in tournaments and practices hosted by Aiken Polo Club.

The team holds annual fundraisers made possible with the support of the Aiken equestrian community. More information about future fundraisers can be found on the team's social media pages.

Heidi Gyselinck placed third in Upper Training Dressage Seat Equitation with the Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) team.

Three riders from the university's Intercollegiate Horseshow Association (IHSA) team recently qualified for Zones at regionals hosted by the College of Charleston: Anne Russo, Alexis Rohrer, and Molly McLaughlin.

Region 3 zones will be held at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) on April 2.

IHSA Team membership is open to any full-time undergraduate student at USC Aiken who is currently in good standing with the university. The USC Aiken Hunt Seat Team trains with Kerry Zemlicka at Engineered Equine Performance in Aiken. The USC Aiken Western Team trains at Mount Vintage Stables in North Augusta and is coached by Jeff Temple.

Each new member must take a lesson before completing their membership to ensure correct competition level placement. Once membership is completed, team members must participate in weekly riding lessons.

For additional information on the USC Aiken Polo Team or the IHSA Team, contact Katie Gantt, associate director of news and information, at katie.gantt@usca.edu or 803-641-3738.

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