Collegiate Eventing Takes Flight: Sisters Thrive in Local Programs!

Gainesville, Florida, USA - In the vibrant world of collegiate equestrian sports, Florida’s very own Lucy Ann Walter, Reagan Walter, and Kani Schram have woven an inspiring tale of ambition and teamwork through the United States Eventing Association’s Intercollegiate Eventing Program. Leaving their roots in Sarasota behind, these three passionate riders embarked on their educational journeys with a shared love for horses and a vision to boost their respective eventing teams.

Lucy, who enrolled at the University of Florida (UF) in Gainesville, took on the role of president for the eventing team. She was particularly focused on elevating the small group she found, aiming to attract new members and increase visibility. This involved reaching out to local barns and partnering with trainers to organize events that would showcase their talent. Meanwhile, sister Reagan was diving into her studies at Auburn University in Alabama, leading a well-established team boasting nearly 50 members. Through shared experiences and a strong support culture, Auburn has seen remarkable success, most recently competing fiercely at the 2025 USEA Intercollegiate Championships.

Growing the Collegiate Eventing Community

The sisters and Kani, who chose Florida State University (FSU), remained tight-knit despite their different campuses. Kani has taken charge of FSU’s eventing team, focusing on building local partnerships and making good use of social media to draw in newcomers. Their individual horse stories are just as unique as their collegiate paths: Lucy rides a Thoroughbred named Bold Colors, Reagan competes with Ideal Design, and Kani had to borrow a horse to participate in the recent Championships.

The USEA Intercollegiate Eventing Program, which started in 2014, has played a pivotal role in fostering this collegiate atmosphere. As outlined by USEF, it was designed to support university-level eventing teams and individual competition. The program has quickly gained momentum, with Intercollegiate Team Challenges becoming a popular feature at recognized horse trials across the United States. The annual Intercollegiate Championships, where riders compete across a range of divisions—from Beginner Novice to Intermediate—has seen participation grow from its inaugural event in 2016.

Future Aspirations in Equestrian Sports

Looking towards the future, Lucy has graduated and relocated to Charleston, SC, with aspirations for law school and the hunt for a competitive horse. Reagan, now a junior at Auburn, is focused on creating a dressage team, while Kani is immersed in her studies in exercise physiology at FSU, encouraging younger teammates to take on leadership roles. The trio’s bonds remain strong; they frequently share resources and ideas, emphasizing a collaborative spirit within this niche community.

As the USEA prepares for the introduction of a Graduate division at its Intercollegiate Championships in 2026, the growth of this program underscores its potential to cultivate future Olympians and professional eventers. The camaraderie and competitive spirit fostered by the program are something to be cherished, reflecting a thriving equestrian culture that is as much about personal growth as it is about competition.

For more insights into this remarkable journey of collegiate eventing, be sure to check out the detailed coverage on USEventing, explore the structured approach at USEF, and discover the local insights available at Area VI Eventing. The future looks bright for these equestrian enthusiasts and their teams!