By KATE STONE
Niles Daily Star

The Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) is looking for new team members at Laughin’ Place Stables in Niles.

The program allows riders, grades 6-12, to compete locally and nationally for the opportunity to receive a scholarship to one of 23 universities that offer equestrian as a varsity sport. This is the first year that Laughin’ Place Stables has formed a team and they are confident the program will be a success.

“It is a great and inexpensive opportunity for kids to get recognized and possibly earn a college scholarship,” said Cathy Lindner, a trainer for the team.

As a part of the IEA program, riders do not need to own or lease their own horses. Horses are selected through a random drawing at each competitive event. The only equipment a rider is required to provide for him or herself is a helmet and riding clothes.

Team members must pay a $45 fee to join and fill out the necessary paper work, which can be found on the IEA website. The season coordinates with the academic school year. Throughout the entire year, the students are preparing for important summer competitions. There are various meets during the school year where students may compete, but none of the events are mandatory.

Lindner charges $35 for each lesson, or $180 for a package including six lessons in a five-week span. She currently offers eight to 10 lessons per week at Laughin’ Place Stables.

Megan Riley, one of Lindner’s students, has been riding horses for four years and competes in hunters- and equestrian-style events.

“My favorite part, so far, has been working with horses who are known as ‘problem horses,'” said Riley. “It’s a challenge to overcome their bad reputations but it’s worth it.”

Lindner requires potential competitors to ride during an evaluation session before competing in order for her to classify their skill level as beginner, intermediate or advanced to ensure the safety of all riders.

“It is important to know the rules and regulations of the IEA,” Lindner said. “They are there to maintain the safety and well-being of the riders.”

Lindner states that IEA is not only an inexpensive activity, but the people involved are great to be around. They are supportive, positive and confident with themselves and each other.

Through lessons at Laughin’ Place Stables, students get to learn proper riding form, safety precautions and rules as well as the opportunity to take the skills they have practiced and use them competitively among their peers.

“It’s fun when the kids want to learn, but they get excited about the competitive aspect,” Lindner said.

Visit www.laughinplacestables.com or www.rideiea.org for more information about the Interscholastic Equestrian Association or Laughin’ Place Stables. To schedule a lesson, call Cathy Lindner at (574) 229-6729.