Cruisers Equestrian Team Gallops to Glory at Grays Harbor

The Eatonville High School Equestrian Team demonstrated their skill over the Easter weekend at the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds, delivering a stellar performance that left spectators in awe and competitors in admiration.

Eatonville's Equestrian team posing for a team photo during the meet in Elma. Photo: Jesse Maier of Mustang Blaze Media

Amidst the backdrop of blooming spring flowers and the excitement of the season, the team faced the challenge of securing coveted spots for the state competition. The stakes were high, with stringent qualification criteria necessitating top-notch performances from each member.

For the Eatonville team, the weekend was nothing short of exceptional, with several standout performances highlighting their talent and dedication to the sport. What's more, achieving state qualification by the second meet is a significant accomplishment, underscoring the team's prowess and determination.

At the forefront of their success was Jaida Green, whose dominance in her performance events was nothing short of remarkable. Green secured an impressive four state qualifiers out of her five individual events, with her mastery evident in every stride and canter. From clinching first place in stock seat and trail equitation to securing second in hunt seat and third in dressage, Green's performances were a testament to her skill and dedication. And with a fourth-place finish in showmanship, she showcased her versatility and poise in the arena.

But Green wasn't the only one leaving a mark on the competition. Heidi Weaver, Ava Weaver, Kalli Olson, Kaylee Bernt, Kaylin Reitz, Chaeley Loudin, Emma Adams, Ella Stephen, Taylor Payne, and Peyton Barney all contributed to the team's success with their impressive performances in individual events, each displaying a unique blend of talent and determination.

In the team events, the Eatonville squad continued to impress, demonstrating their unity and skill in every maneuver. Notably, the Drill 6-person team captured second place and secured their spot for the state competition, while the Canadian flags team mirrored their success, further solidifying the team's dominance in the arena.

With 12 athletes already qualified for state after the second meet and four more on the cusp of qualification, the Eatonville High School Equestrian Team is poised for continued success as they set their sights on state, regionals, and beyond.

Coach Michelle Woolf was proud of her team and how well they have worked together, “Our team is largely made up of riders new to competition. We have a few seasoned veterans who place well but I am so proud of how they help the new athletes and help each other out to learn new things, set goals. It is so great to hear all the positive encouragement to each other and watch them be successful on many different levels. Even our new riders are setting personal bests at every meet and hitting state goals.”

Woolf went on to praise the rider’s parents as well, “This team has amazing parents who stand behind their athletes 100%. They are the ones who make it possible to get these kids and their horses out to have great practice time. We came in the underdogs but these girls are really doing a fantastic job of putting the pressure on the other teams. I can't wait to watch meet 3!”

Eatonville’s next meet is April 26th at the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds in Elma, WA.