Underdog Equestrian Team Triumphs, Upsets Dartmouth Despite Non-Ivy League Status

The University of Lynchburg, a private institution in Lynchburg, Virginia, boasts a nationally-ranked equestrian program. They actively participate in both NCEA and IHSA competitions. Meanwhile, Dartmouth College, an Ivy League school, also competes in NCEA. The Dartmouth equestrian team has a history of success, including three NCEA ECAC Single Discipline Championship wins and multiple top-five finishes at the NCAA National Championships.

On October 15, 2023, the University of Lynchburg faced Dartmouth College in an NCEA match and emerged victorious with a score of 10-5. The match was held at Dartmouth’s home facility, Morton Farm. Although Dartmouth rallied to secure victories in the reining and horsemanship events, Lynchburg clinched the overall win by triumphing in the final event, equitation over fences. And the scores were just mind-blowing.

Lynchburg’s performance

Lynchburg’s team delivered impressive scores and exceptional riding during the match. Fallyn Belcastro set the tone with her stunning score of 86 on the flat, and earning “Most Outstanding Performer” honours. The Hornets’ dominance extended to the flat event, where they secured two more crucial points. Kelley McCormick displayed her equestrian prowess with a score of 81 on Stewart, while Lucy Metzler’s precision on Felix earned her a score just one point higher than her opponent.

Over fences, Lynchburg’s riders continued to impress. Brynley Smith, a senior rider, achieved a score of 80 on Candy. Emma Schweizer’s performance on Alvarino earned a remarkable 84, securing victory for Lynchburg. Jacqueline Needle also contributed with her strong performance over fences. Lynchburg?s decisive 6-2 victory in this equestrian clash solidified the Hornets’ status as the top-ranked equestrian team. However,? recently, one more school organized a rodeo event but that was for a noble cause.

RGGS bull riding

Rockhampton Girls Grammar School, located in Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia, is known for its outstanding academic programs and diverse extracurricular offerings, including the unique inclusion of bull riding. In a recent and noteworthy initiative, the school organized a Rodeo event to support a charitable cause, showcasing the fusion of academic excellence and adventurous pursuits that define Rockhampton Girls Grammar School.

The school’s bull riding program is not just about the exhilarating experience of confronting powerful animals but also serves a noble purpose by fundraising for Central Queensland’s information and referral service. This annual bull barrel event is an unconventional high school fundraiser, attracting participants and spectators alike. Over the years, the RGGS bull riding team has achieved remarkable success, with students like Brooke Williams and Georgia Williams making history by competing and winning at the national level.

Read More: ?Over 100 Volunteers?: Breaking Tradition, Bull Riding Enthusiast School Hosts Championship for a Worthy Cause

The University of Lynchburg’s impressive victory against Dartmouth College in an equestrian competition on October 15, 2023, solidified its standing as the top-ranked equestrian team. Additionally, the Rockhampton Girls Grammar School in Australia demonstrated an intriguing fusion of academic excellence and adventurous pursuits by incorporating bull riding into its diverse extracurricular offerings.

Watch This Story:?Rodeo world mourns 98 year old bull rider who played key role in worlds rescue