NDSU Equestrian Team ends season with 2 students competing at nationals

The NDSU Equestrian Team capped off an outstanding season by earning national recognition after a dominant performance throughout the regular season. The team claimed both the Regional High Point Western Team and Regional High Point Hunt Seat Team championships, while senior Hannah Strong was named the Regional High Point Western Rider.

Building on that success, the Bison sent 10 riders to Hunt Seat Zones in Texas and 11 riders to Western Semifinals in Kentucky. Their strong performances led to two riders qualifying for the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) National Championship, held at Tryon International in North Carolina.

Senior Hannah Strong competed in the prestigious High Point Rider division, showcasing her talent in both reining and open horsemanship. Sophomore Josie Schieno represented the Bison in beginner horsemanship. Both riders delivered exceptional performances against some of the nation's top collegiate equestrians.

Schieno earned Honorable Mention in her division, while Strong finished sixth overall in the combined High Point Rider standings, based on her horsemanship and reining scores.

The team is proud of its accomplishments and looks forward to building on this momentum in the 2026–27 season. Congratulations to all of the student-athletes on an outstanding year, and go Bison!

-Tara Swanson