The Oxford High School Equestrian Team’s season is rolling on.
The Wildcats secured their 11th straight spot at the Michigan Interscholastic Horsemanship Association State Championship after claiming the MIHA Region E championship Sunday.
The team had strong showings throughout all of the disciplines, including showmanship, western, speed and jumping during the competition at the Ingham County Fairgrounds.
The Wildcats earned 577 points during the two day show, with Vicksburg in second place with 348 points. The OHS Equestrian Team also beat out teams from Chelsea, Coldwater and Saline.
‘The team did a great job, but they know their hard work isn’t done yet,? said Dee Shepard, the team’s head coach.
The wildcats now move on to the state meet, which will be held from Oct. 13 through the 16 at the Midland County Fairgrounds.
‘We’re excited,? Shepard said. ‘We look forward to competing at the state level every year. We’re going to be riding against some great teams and our riders are ready to step up to that challenge.?
‘We as a whole did a great job performing our best and being prepared going into regionals,? said Jennifer Fifield, one of the team’s captains. ‘Together, cheering everyone on and being there to support each other in everyone’s classes shows in the final results. Going into states will be tough but if we can stay focused with the drive to win, wildcats can bring home a state championship.?
The Wildcats were third in the state in 2010, behind teams from Milford and Hartland. The defending champion and reserve champion are both returning as well.