Eisenhower equestrian team takes regional title

The Eisenhower High School equestrian team has raced its way to one of its most successful finish in the school’s history.

The four-member team earned the district and regional championships and earned the right to compete against the top 10 Michigan teams for the state title.

“I cannot say enough good things about my team’s determination and drive to really step up their game each and every show, and practice everything we wanted to fix to come back better and better, which showed in how far we made it through the season,” said coach Amanda Kutchey.

Teams are judged on multiple criteria related to horsemanship, including speed and showmanship.

Eisenhower competes in the “C” division, and team members participated in three district and one regional tournament before qualifying for the state competition.

The team was named the District 12 Reserve Champs and the Region B Reserve Champs.

Team members are Katelyn Messing, Lauren Roy, Brianna Seymour and Haley Zynda. The assistant coach is Lauren Theisen.

“The team members practice all year long with their horses, taking lessons, going to other horse shows in the area, and working with me to make sure they are preparing what they need for the competitions,” Kutchey said. “This takes a ton of time, dedication, and passion for the sport not only from my riders, but the support of their parents because it takes a lot to get them to each competition and each practice.”