Frequently Asked Questions
Do potential new members need to try out for the team?
No! We welcome anyone who wants to be a part of the team. IHSA has a division for everyone, from beginning riders to those with USEF A/AA experience.
Do I need to show in IHSA if I am on the team?
Nope! Riders may choose to be a part of the team and not show if they are more interested in riding for fun with other Tritons!
Do I need my own horse to show?
IHSA is a catch-riding show circuit in which riders randomly draw a horse to compete on in a flat or over fences class. These horses are brought by the participating universities. The catch riding nature of IHSA tests riders on their ability to ride and adapt to different horses.
What students are eligible to compete on the IHSA team?
Full-time, undergraduate students are eligible to compete on the IHSA team.
Is there a western IHSA team?
Currently, the UCSD Equestrian Team does not have a Western team. We encourage those who are interested in a Western team to join the Hunt Seat team, as it introduces the rider to a different style of riding and allows the rider to meet fellow Tritons with a love for equestrian sports.
How much does it cost to compete in IHSA?
IHSA is an affordable alternative for college students to traditional shows. We address finances in our introductory meeting with potential new members. For specific questions regarding the costs of showing, please contact us.
Can I join the Equestrian Team during Winter or Spring quarter?
We "formally" recruit in the beginning of Fall quarter, but we will accept new members later in Fall quarter, Winter quarter, and Spring Quarter. For those interested in competing in IHSA, we require potential new members to join in the beginning of Fall quarter as our show season begins in October.
Where are the IHSA shows located?
We compete against other teams in our region, including schools as north as Los Angeles and as far as Tuscon, AZ. Our 2019-2020 team travelled to Los Angeles (Los Angeles Equestrian Center & Hansen Dam Horse Park), Phoenix, and Temecula (Galway Downs). Regionals, Zones, and Nationals are held at different locations each year and are announced before the start of the show season.
When is the IHSA show season?
We begin showing as early as October and typically have our last show(s) in February. Regionals, Zones, and Nationals are held after the regular show season.