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Frequently Asked Questions
1
Who can join the team?
The Virginia Riding Team is a club sport which means we can take any level UVA student who shows the ability and desire to be an involved and committed member. Our riders range from experienced equitation riders to complete beginners. We have limited spots available on the team depending on the availability of our horses and coaches. Members are chosen based on their commitment level to the team. We also take both female and male riders.
2
Are there tryouts?
Due to the limited number of available spots on the team, there is a commitment-based selection process at the beginning of the year. Interested students will fill out a written application as well as demonstrate their riding for the coaches. Commitment level to the team is the main deciding factor in who is selected.
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3
In what types of competitions does the team compete?
In what types of competitions does the team compete?
The Virginia Riding Team competes in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). We are a part of Zone 4, Region 2. We compete in 3-5 IHSA horse shows each semester plus Regionals, Zones, and Nationals in the spring. The team also historically has competitively competed in ANRCs and the Collegiate Cup.
4
Must all team members compete?
No, there is no requirement to compete. Those who wish to compete simply sign up for shows at the beginning of the semester, and the coaches pick the line up for each show.
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5
How often would I ride?
How often would I ride?
Members must ride twice a week. Each lesson is with a team coach and 3-5 UVA riders.
6
How do I balance the team with school?
Our coaches make the lesson schedule around the students' school schedules. This means that students will never need to compromise their work in order to be a part of the team.
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7
How do I get to the barn?
How do I get to the barn?
First-year students may not have a car at UVA. Therefore, our team uses a carpool system to ensure that all team members have a way to get to the barn whenever they need to.
8
Can I compete outside of normal team horse shows?
Yes, the team rides at the Barracks Farm, which is a full-service show barn in Charlottesville. That means that team members can lease a show horse for a competition, a semester, or a year and compete with a Barracks trainer.
9
Can I bring my horse to the Barracks?
Can I bring my horse to the Barracks?
Yes, and team members are encouraged to! Feel free to reach out to us with inquiries about how current team members balance team commitments, academic involvements, and boarding a horse! Since this is an individual choice, please contact us or the Barracks for additional information regarding board and pricing options. Final arrangements to board a horse will be through the Barracks staff.
10
Are there social events?
Yes, our team spends plenty of time bonding outside of the ring. Since 2021, our social events have ramped up with spring & fall formals, apple picking, tailgating at the Foxfield races, holding mixers with other club sports, and more! Our team prides ourselves on being more than just a group of riders-we're a family. We encourage anyone not able to commit to the riding portion of the team to join as a social member! You are able to join in all social events without the cost of lessons.
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