Horses have always played a big role in senior Kathryn Taylor’s life, dating back to her first summer “pony camp” experience at age five. So when she was looking for a college, she knew she wanted more than a good education; she wanted a place that would let her continue her passion for horses.
When she discovered the Clemson Equestrian Team (CUET), one of Clemson’s 14 individual competitive club teams, Taylor knew she found her fit.
“I could not imagine Clemson without CUET,” Taylor said, looking back at her time in Tigertown. “I have made life-long friends through the team and cannot picture my life without them.”
The team’s 40 members train at Sovan Hill Enterprises in Landrum. Membership is open to all ability levels, whether that means life-long rider or someone who has always wanted to learn. The team competes at the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), which has classes for each level.
While some CUET members board their own horses in Landrum, owning a horse is not required. As Taylor explained, “IHSA shows are unique in the fact that the horses are provided for you, and you literally draw the name of the horse you will be riding out of a hat. This aspect of our competitions really levels the playing field and makes you become a much better rider.”
CUET competes in about three horse shows a semester and hosts one intercollegiate show every fall in Tryon, N.C. Because of high equipment costs for the team, including saddles and show clothes, the team also hosts two fundraising shows; the next show will be held Valentine’s weekend.
Taylor feels strongly that getting involved is an important part of a university experience. “Clemson provides us with a great environment and access to many different experiences we might not have seen at another school,” she said. “Finding a group of people that share your interests is the best way to maximize the Clemson experience.”
After graduating in May 2008 with a degree in construction science and management, Taylor will work for BE&K Building Group in Charlotte, N.C., specializing in healthcare construction. She hopes to be an active alumni, adding, “I will definitely stay active with Clemson and CUET; they’ve given me the best years of my life.”
Learn more about CUET online at www.clemson.edu/cuet.
Published February 2008