The Oxford High School Equestrian Team brought home the Division A Reserve State Championship Oct. 13-16 after showing against the top teams in the state.
Hartland High School took home the top spot by just three points.
Hartland ended the weekend of competition at the Midland County Fairgrounds with 326 points, Oxford earned 323 and Clare earned 244.
‘We were very consistent throughout the meet, placing in every event which we have not done in a few years,? said Dee Shepard, the Wildcat’s head coach. ‘The kids conducted themselves like champs, up before dawn to prepare and staying until 9 and 10 p.m. to practice for the next day’s events.?
Oxford’s riders won the District 2 championship and the Region E championship to qualify for the state championship for the 11th consecutive year.
And while the team celebrated its victory, the number of points earned wasn’t the only thing they were greatful for.
‘Reserve champion is a great honor and we stepped it up from last year,? said co-captain and senior Jennifer Fifield.
‘I’m very proud to be a captain of this team and sad this is my last year.?
‘We came together as a team and kicked some butt,? said Katie Champagne, a junior on the team. ‘I’m so honored to be a co-captain of a team this amazing.?
‘Our team has come together as a family this season,? said juniot Emily Diedrich. ‘We did our best and our work showed in our accomplishments. I’m so proud of our team and I’ll always value these memories.?