Five members of the Cornell equestrian team will compete at the Zone II Championships on April 4 in Rochester, New York. The event, hosted by the Rochester Institute of Technology, follows strong performances by the riders at recent regional competitions.
The competition is significant as it brings together top collegiate riders from across the region. Success at this level can lead to further advancement and recognition for both individual athletes and their teams.
Riley Gerardo will participate in both open flat and open fences after winning regional championships in each division during the Regional Championships held on March 8. Gerardo also placed second in the Cacciatore Cup and earned Reserve High Point Rider honors twice during regular season events at RIT Show II and Cornell Show II.
Jianna Simcik qualified for two divisions after becoming regional champion in intermediate fences and reserve champion in intermediate flat. Simcik was named High Point Rider at Cornell Show I and finished ninth in the Cacciatore Cup during regionals. Clara Beck will represent Cornell in limit fences following her victory as regional champion; she also placed fifth in limit flat at regionals.
Evelyn Gurvich secured a spot by winning the novice division’s regional championship, having consistently performed throughout the year with three second-place finishes during regular season meets. Alexa Carey advanced to zones after capturing a regional championship title in introductory; Carey achieved six first-place finishes over the course of regular season competition.
The upcoming Zone II Championships present an opportunity for these athletes to showcase their skills against some of the best collegiate equestrians, with potential implications for future national-level qualifications.
