INTER-COLLEGIATE - OSU

The Inter-Collegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) promotes competition for riders of all skill levels competing individually and as teams at regional, zone, and national levels. Emphasis is on learning, sportsmanship, and fun. Competition plays a role but the students’ enthusiasm and team spirit are the major factors.

The Association was founded on the principle that any college student should be able to participate in horse shows regardless of their financial status or riding level. The IHSA attempts to eliminate the expenses of students owning horses and allows more students to compete. Students ride horses that are furnished by the host college and chosen by drawing lots. The use of personal tack and schooling of the horse is not allowed. The theory behind this structure is to provide all students a level playing field and to test their horsemanship. Classes range from walk/trot for first year students to the Open Division for the more experienced riders.

Full-time undergraduate students of member colleges or alumni who competed in the IHSA are eligible to compete. Riders qualify for the National Championship Horse Show (Nationals) through a point system. During the year contestants accumulate points at local shows to qualify for the Regional Finals in their respective divisions. The top three riders in each class of the Regional Finals move forward to the Zone Finals. The top two competitors in each class at Zones qualify for Nationals.