The Interscholastic Equestrian Association

The Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) is a non-profit organization that aims to facilitate competitive and educational equestrian opportunities for middle and secondary school students grades 6-12. With over 14,000 members across more than 40 states, the IEA has been uniting young equestrians to develop horsemanship skills since 2002.  

The IEA competition season follows the academic calendar, beginning in September and culminating in March or April depending on the region. Members participate in five shows throughout the regular season, earning points to qualify for region finals. Every team also choses a “point rider” in each class whose placings earn points for the team. Qualifying teams and individuals move on to region finals, zone finals, and national finals.

Luck of the Draw

The IEA is accessible to all riders as it is not necessary to own a horse. Instead, each team supplies a number of horses depending on how many participating members they have. Riders randomly draw horses’ names to determine who they will ride in their classes. This system allows riders to showcase their horsemanship and riding ability based on how they perform on an often unfamiliar horse.

Disciplines

Riders can choose to participate in an of the three disciplines offered by the IEA: western, dressage, and hunt seat. Each one offers a range of classes to fit any rider level, from walk/trot flat classes to 2’6″ over fences classes. western riders participate in horsemanship, reining, and ranch riding classes. dressage riders do a dressage test and a dressage seat equitation class. Similarly, Hunt seat riders compete in an over fences class, either cross-rails, 2′, or 2’6″, and an equitation flat class. Riders who aren’t jumping yet participate in two flat classes but will only receive points for one.

Horsemanship and Sportsmanship

The primary goal of IEA is to teach horsemanship and sportsmanship to young riders. Every team member is expected to participate, not only competing but also doing their part to care for team horses. This involves feeding, grooming, tacking up, and warming up horses. Additionally, show officials, coaches, and participants can nominate riders for the IEA sportsmanship award at each show. The recipients of this award then have the opportunity to apply for the IEA National Sportsmanship Award. Not only is this a testament to the rider’s sportsmanlike conduct, but is also an opportunity to win scholarships and a lifetime IEA membership.

Adult Pilot Program

After a successful trial, the IEA officially instituted an Adult Pilot Program in 2021. The program allows amateur adult riders aged 19-39 to participate under IEA organization in individuals and team competition. Adults are now able to participate in all three IEA disciplines, and top-placing riders are invited to attend national finals.

Here is a conclusion for the entire article:

For over 20 years, the Interscholastic Equestrian Association has provided middle and high school students with a uniquely accessible and educational competitive riding program. Students develop well-rounded horsemanship skills, both on the ground and in the saddle. With hunt seat, western, and dressage options, riders of all disciplines can progress through appropriate classes as their skills advance. The recent addition of the Adult Pilot Program now extends these developmental opportunities to amateur adult riders aged 19-39 as well. Through its focus on horsemanship, sportsmanship and inclusion, the IEA continues to push the sport of equestrian forward at all levels. As the organization expands to serve both youth and adult riders nationwide, the IEA cements its reputation as a leader in accessible, educational competition.