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The style of Western riding evolved from the ranching and warfare brought to the America's by the Conquistadors, which then evolved to meet the needs of the cowboys of the American West. Today, Western is still the style of choice for ranchers as well as a competitve discipline. The UCF Western team is selected through try-outs held in the fall semester. To be a member of the Western team all riders must be first a member with the Equestrian Club at UCF.

The UCF Western Team is based out of Najorka Performace Horses in St. Cloud, Florida and is under the instruction of trainer Ken Najorka.

The UCFWestern team competes on the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) circuit. We are Zone 5 Region 3 members and compete with colleges and universities from Charleston, South Carolina to Miami, Florida.

  Team
Dues
$40 in addition to club dues
Meetings
2 excused absenses with prior notification
Lessons
Once a week/$35
Fundraisers
yet to be determined
Horseshows
Mandatory
Football Games
yet to be determined
Events/Benefits
Mandatory unless otherwise stated

What is the IHSA?

IHSA Stands for Intercollegiate Horse Show Association. The IHSA promotes competition for riders of all skill levels, who compete individually and as teams at regional, zone, and national levels. The association was founded on the principle that any college student should be able to participate in horse shows, regardless of their financial status or riding level. The IHSA attempts to eliminate the expenses of students owning horses and allows more students to compete. Students ride horses that are furnished by the host college and chosen by drawing lots. The use of personal tack is not allowed and schooling is not permitted. The theory behind this structure is to equalize variables of the competition and test the horsemanship of the contestants. Classes range from Walk/Trot for first year students to the Open Division for the more experienced riders. IHSA offers eight levels of hunter seat riding, beginner through Medal/Maclay

To qualify to compete on the IHSA circuit, riders must meet the following requirements

  • Full time enrolled UCF Student or
  • UCF allumni that has competed on the IHSA circuit as an undergrad
  • Dues paying club member
  • Dues paying IHSA member

  How do I join?

If you are interested in joining the UCF Western Team the first step is to email the club account at ucfequestrian@hotmail.com. Your email will be forwarded to the Western captain who will then return your email promptly.

Lessons for Team Members

Contact information for team lessons are as follows …remember that the Saddler of Orlando and Stockman's Harness gives our members a 10% discount on all items.  If you are planning on taking lessons and/or showing, it is advised that you purchase paddock boots and a helmet to start off.

 

 

Western Pleasure / Reining Lessons Beginner-Advanced
Najorka Performance Horses
(407)721-9711 - Ken Najorka