Equestrian finals at the State Fairgrounds
SYRACUSE -- More than 500 young horse riders and their families are in Syracuse this weekend for the national finals of the Interscholastic Equestrian Association.
Unlike most horse shows, they did not bring horses with them. The horses are loaned, from area schools and riding programs, so part of the skill for these riders is competing on unfamiliar horses, with unfamiliar saddles.
The riders, from middle and high school, have been training and competing in eight regions across the United States since the start of the school year, and represent over 700 teams. Some will be competing as teams, others qualified for the finals as individuals. The will be showing over jumps, and on the flat, Friday morning to Sunday afternoon. There are also equestrian stars coming to Syracuse, who will be giving talks and clinics for the young riders.
The competition is free to watch, at the State Fairgrounds. It will also be streamed at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association website, which has more information on the competitors, as well.