By Lauren Leese ’23
Staff Writer
Club Corner is a biweekly column dedicated to highlighting Mount Holyoke College club sports. This week, Club Corner spotlighted Dressage.
Answers by Ellen Switchenko ’23, captain
1. Describe dressage in three words. Harmony, connection, balance.
2. What are the basics of dressage? In dressage, the goal is to develop a harmonious connection with the horse you are riding. At our competitions, we show off that connection and ride a series of patterns called a “test.” Specifically in intercollegiate dressage, the horses we ride are chosen that morning at random, so we’re often riding a horse we’ve never seen before!
3. When and where do you practice? We practice Mondays and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 a.m. at the Equestrian Center.
4. What is your favorite team memory? I have so many, but I love setting up the dressage court with the team before each home competition. We take a bunch of blocks and boards and build a perfectly rectangular 20 meter by 60 meter court. It normally takes a long time and a lot of measuring, but we listen to music and always have a great time!
5. Tell me about your coach. Our [head] coach, Ali Ingellis ’07, is an incredible dressage trainer and a very positive force on our team. She constantly pushes us to ride more effectively at practices, emphasizes correct horsemanship that puts the horse’s well-being first and understands the various pressures we face as students.
6. What’s the best part about dressage? The horses, of course! I firmly believe that it’s hard to have a bad day when at least part of that day is spent with a horse. The Equestrian Center is open to all, so feel free to come by the barn whenever you need some pony snuggles!
7. If you had to pick a song to describe dressage, what would it be? “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins. We always try to push ourselves to our limits when we ride!
8. Whom would dressage be perfect for? The Dressage Team is perfect for horse lovers of all skill levels who are looking to improve their knowledge, spend time with cute ponies and build meaningful relationships with other team members.
9. How can someone join the team? For our Mounted Roster, tryouts are held at the beginning of each semester and previous horse experience is required. For our Unmounted Horsemanship Roster, we encourage you to also join at the beginning of the semester when we hold our mandatory information meeting. While our Unmounted Horsemanship Roster does not ride, these members get the opportunity to work with horses on the ground and develop their equine knowledge.
10. Anything else to add? We will be hosting a competition all day on Nov. 19 at the Equestrian Center and would love to see you come and support the team!