For members of new equine club, unbridled delight

Rachel Feldman, left, Grace Carroll, center, and Courtney Steiner

Close

Enlarge Rachel Feldman, left, Grace Carroll, center, and Courtney Steiner

The College is beginning to build a presence in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association. Earlier this spring, a group of students led by sophomores Courtney Steiner, Grace Carroll and Rachel Feldman founded Union’s first equestrian club for students interested in all types of horseback riding and equine sports. 

"Many of us rode horses growing up and wanted to continue,” said Steiner. “We're excited about the strong interest we've gotten in such a short period.” 

The fledgling Equestrian Club already has nearly 30 active members, both men and women. Many ride at nearby Dutch Manor Stables in Guilderland, N.Y., a base for other local colleges' equestrian programs. Union riders look forward to competing in hunter-jumper shows in the fall.

The Equestrian Club also volunteers at Peaceful Acres, a local farm that promotes emotional therapy and well-being by partnering rescued and adopted horses with humans in need. The club has found supporters among Union's faculty and staff as well, several of whom are long-time riders and are enthusiastic about having an outlet for equestrians at Union.