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SUCCESS STORIES Professor Clark, also an instructor of Equine Studies, praised the riders’ positive dynamic: “Our team is very supportive. At nationals, a number of coaches complimented our students — how friendly and helpful they were to one another and to riders from other teams.”
Lindsay Clark ’10 is the nation’s top hunt seat rider.
In addition to the team’s victory, Centenary junior Lindsay Clark, a native of New Paltz, N.Y., who has been riding for most of her life, won the coveted Cacchione Cup, sponsored by the United States Equestrian Foundation and named for IHSA founder Robert Cacchione. “I think it is incredible,” said Cacchione, noting that Centenary is the first Equestrian team since the 1980s to capture both the Collegiate and Cacchione Cup. “To compete among 8,500 riders and 360 teams and come out as No. 1 — wow! I think it showed a great deal of dedication and hard work. The team really rallied and it paid off.” Peter Cashman, zone chairperson of the IHSA and Equine coach of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, compared Centenary’s feat to reaching the NCAA Final Four in basketball.
“Equestrians practice their entire lives for this,” he noted. “[The Centenary Team] was phenomenal. They rode like the champions they became.” Cashman is also the dad of Centenary Equestrian Team member Randi Cashman. “As a parent, I can say that Centenary offers so much to students,” he added. “We are so proud of what Michael and
“To compete among 8,500 riders and 360 teams and come out as No. 1 — wow! The team really rallied and it paid off.” International Horse Show Association (IHSA) Founder Robert Cacchione
Heather have done with the team and the work they are doing in the Center. The students are happy and productive.” Clark was elated and humbled by the win. “This entire year was an incredible experience,” she said. “Thanks to Michael and Heather, I have improved my riding and gained confidence. This has been a highlight in my showing career.” Despite her prestigious individual win, Clark derives the most satisfaction from “being part of this amazing, supportive team.” She credits Centenary’s success to “great coaching, determination, and sportsmanship. You never hear discouraging words coming from a Centenary rider’s mouth!” While Clark’s extensive equestrian background undoubtedly groomed her for an IHSA victory, a
Through The Campaign for Centenary College, the Equine Studies Department will improve its facilities to meet the high level of teaching and training offered at the College. To learn more about plans to enhance Centenary’s 65-acre Equestrian Center in Long Valley, N.J., contact Assistant Vice President for Strategic Advancement Kathleen Ward at wardk@centenarycollege.edu or (908) 852-1400, ext. 2387.