Post University Equestrian Rider Goes To Nationals
5/6/2009 11:56:52 AM
Ashley Barrett, a sophomore at Post University, placed 11th in the IHSA National Championships in Nashville, Tennessee on April 23rd. The Ansonia, Connecticut resident competed against all the riders at Novice over Fences level from around the USA, including 18 competitors in her class.
Not only was Ashley competing against some of the best riders in the country in her division, but the format used in all Intercollegiate Horse Show Association shows requires the random selection of horses via a draw. All riders mount and proceed to jump the course having never ridden the horse before! Quite a challenge!
Barrett was accompanied to the National Championships by Coach Heather Johnson of Litchfield, Connecticut, a Post alumna. This was Johnson’s second year coaching the Post University team and her first trip to Nationals. “Ashley had a very respectable ride," said Johnson. "She has shown a huge improvement in her two years on the team – she works really hard at her riding and it is nice to see that pay off”.
Four Post team members squashed into a VW Jetta for the 16 hour drive to Nashville to support Barrett during the competition. Everyone really enjoyed the whole experience and we hope that Post can have a rider at Nationals again soon.