Equestrian sports have always been about more than just riding—they’re about confidence, connection, and a little bit of magic between horse and rider. And thanks to the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA), thousands of young athletes are getting the chance to experience that magic, whether they’ve grown up in the saddle or are just finding their footing.
Founded in 2002, the IEA is on a mission to make equestrian competition more inclusive and accessible for middle and high school students across the U.S. No horse? No problem. Never competed? That’s okay too. The IEA has created a one-of-a-kind platform where riders of all backgrounds and experience levels can grow, compete, and thrive in a sport that’s often seen as out of reach. And at Veltri Sport, we’re all in on supporting that mission.
So what makes the IEA so special? Let’s take the reins and break it down.
What Exactly is the IEA?
The Interscholastic Equestrian Association is a national non-profit organization that gives students in grades 4–12 the chance to ride and compete—without needing to own a horse. Riders can join a team through their school or barn and compete in hunt seat, western, or dressage disciplines. Competitions are team-based (hello, new barn besties!) but also offer chances to shine individually.
Points earned at shows can lead to bigger opportunities—regionals, nationals, and beyond. But it’s not just about winning ribbons. The IEA builds riders who know the value of hard work, good sportsmanship, and strong horsemanship—all while having a blast doing what they love.
The IEA’s Game-Changing Format
One of the coolest parts of the IEA? You don’t ride your own horse at shows. Instead, you draw a horse at random, hop on, and go compete—no warm-up allowed. It sounds intense, but this “draw” format teaches riders to think fast, ride smart, and adapt like a pro.
It also means that every show is a new challenge—and a new chance to grow. Riders quickly develop problem-solving skills, versatility, and confidence by learning to ride a variety of horses with different personalities and quirks. It’s not just about mastering one horse—it’s about learning the entire language of riding.
A Sport That Welcomes Everyone
Let’s face it—horseback riding can be expensive, and owning a horse isn’t always realistic. The IEA completely changes the game by removing that barrier. Since all horses are provided at competitions, riders from all financial backgrounds can compete on equal footing.
The IEA also welcomes riders of all skill levels—whether you’re just learning to canter or already working on your lead changes. That open-door policy creates an uplifting, no-pressure environment where everyone can build confidence and improve at their own pace.
At Veltri Sport, we believe equestrian sports should be for everyone, which is why we’re so proud to support an organization that’s making that belief a reality.
How the IEA Helps Riders Grow—On and Off the Horse
IEA competitions are about so much more than just riding. Here’s what riders really gain:
Skill Development: Riders get hands-on experience with all kinds of horses, building adaptability and resilience. Plus, they’re taught essential horsemanship skills—because being a great rider means knowing how to care for your partner on the ground too.
Teamwork & Leadership: Being part of a team means learning how to support your squad, communicate clearly, and take pride in shared wins. Riders become leaders, teammates, and friends for life.
Future Equestrian Opportunities: Many IEA riders go on to ride in college or pursue careers in the equestrian world. The program helps open doors to everything from show teams and scholarships to internships and equine business programs.
Scholarships & Recognition: Hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Riders can earn scholarships, awards, and accolades that help with higher education and career goals—proving that dedication in the barn really can pay off.
Whether you’re new to equestrian sports or a seasoned show rider, the IEA is helping shape a stronger, more inclusive future for the sport—one ride, one team, and one goal at a time.
And we’re honored to ride alongside them. Veltri Sport is a proud Sponsor of the IEA. We design high-performance bags and gear that work as hard as our riders do—perfect for the show ring, the school day, or anything in between.
Here’s to the riders who show up, saddle up, and chase their goals—no matter where they start.
