Two Colorado State University riders competed in the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association Semifinals last month in Findlay, Ohio.  

Elizabeth Guagenti, a senior communication studies major, and Jenna Hammel, a senior equine science major, compete on CSU’s Western equestrian team, coached by Ariel Hug. It was the first time in many years that the Western team competed at that level.

Guagenti, the team’s captain and president, competed in the Open Class at the March 22-24 event and placed eighth. Hammel competed in the Level 2 Class and placed sixth.

“I just am very grateful to have had the opportunity to represent CSU at this event where there were 32 schools,” Guagenti said. “It was an amazing experience and was truly an honor.”

It is Guagenti’s second year on the team, and she has been showing in reining for eight years. Hammel said this is her first year on the team and has only been doing horsemanship since October 2023.

“I joined the team to grow as a rider and showman, and Coach Ariel’s guidance has been invaluable,” Hammel said. “Making it not only to regionals, but semifinals, and getting a call back into the final eight has been a huge achievement. I am so grateful for the support system I’ve had to get here! I had so much fun, and competing in IHSA has opened doors for me.”

For Hug, who has had an Interscholastic Equestrian Association team for fourth grade through 12th grade students the past five years, it was her first time coaching at the collegiate level and at IHSA.

More information about the CSU equestrian team is available on Instagram and Facebook.