Instructors work with each rider to choose a horse that best suits her ability, personality, and current goals for class riding. The horse assigned may change as goals change. Students interested in and capable of schooling are generally assigned a project. A. Inexperienced riders have many opportunities to ride and compete outside of lessons. The IHSA also offers students at the elementary and intermediate levels a chance to travel and compete on a team.
Independent competitors have opportunities to compete.
Students who are not members of the fall club riding, spring varsity, or IHSA teams are encouraged to participate in on-campus activities. These include two AHSA recognized shows with an AHSA Adult Equitation class and a USET class, two state and regional association shows with medals, one IHSA show, hunter trials, paces, and riding to hounds. Independent competitors from Sweet Briar can compete off campus annually in an average of seven additional horse shows and four additional hunter trials during the academic year. The type and number of shows depends on the individual. These are in addition to the on-campus horse shows and open competitions.