Oct. 21, 2004

By Saxon Mahan Daily O'Collegian

Stillwater, OK (U-WIRE) -- After a successful 2003-04 season, the Oklahoma State equestrian team looks to be competitive once again.

Last season, five riders were crowned national champions at the IHSA National Championships in Murfeesboro, Tennessee.

The team lost senior Kristin Dickerson, winner of last years Collegiate Reining Championship and AQHA High Point Rider Competition.

However, there are signs that this team could be even better.

Coach Larry Sanchez said he thinks the team will step up to the challenge left by Dickerson.

"While Kristin is a tremendous loss, I feel we have others who are ready to step into the shoes she left," Sanchez said.

This year's team features many talented returnees, including sophomore Katie Bohr. Bohr finished third at last years Collegiate Reining Championship.

Senior April Peck will return after winning two national titles at the IHSA National Championships. Lindsey Childress and Crissy Meeks also return after winning national titles.

The team traveled to the University of Auburn for a competition in early October and rode well Sanchez said.

The team competes in one of the toughest area in the country, with the last three national champion teams coming from the region.

"Our region is very tough, but this type of competition really can help the girls prepare for nationals," Sanchez said.

The team will begin competition on Saturday at the Western in Canyon, Texas. They will compete in Stillwater on November 6 at the Hunter Seat.

On November 20-21, the team will compete in College Station, Texas. December 4-5 marks the return of the squad to Stillwater to compete.

Regional Championships will not begin until April 2 in Canyon, Texas. The Zone Championships will be April 9 in Fort Collins, Colorado. The Varsity National Championship will be April 22-23, followed by the IHSA National Championship on May 5-8.

Coach Sanchez said he thinks this will be another successful season for the Equestrian team.

"In order to do well this season, we have to go in and have a strong showing in competition," Sanchez said. "This should be another good year."

(C) 2004 Daily O'Collegian via U-WIRE