Equestrian Center unveils new footing in indoor arenas
The 做厙輦⑹ Equestrian Center has new footing that is completely waterless and considered the best on the market. It will save approximately 3,000 gallons of water each week while ensuring the arenas are safer for horses and riders.
The 做厙輦⑹ is recognized as one of the finest facilities for educational and competitive riding available to students. Now, the equestrian program has been upgraded with new waterless footing installed in both indoor arenas.
The project has been years in the making and advanced through the collaboration between multiple divisions of the college. In discussions among Director of Athletics Andrea Ricketts-Preston, Associate Vice President for Facilities Management Karla Youngblood, Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students Dr. Marcella Runnel and Vice President for Finance and Administration and Treasurer Carl Ries, the need for the update was clear. And the timing was ideal, aligning with the priorities of MHC Forward, which emphasizes sustainability, inclusive academic excellence, and the athletic program.
At the opening ceremony held on January 29, the Equestrian Centers said the new footing represents a substantial improvement.
This arena is not just a building. Its a testament to what we stand for at Mount Holyoke. The new footing system represents a leap forward for both rider performance and horse welfare. It ensures a safer and more sustainable environment, allowing our equestrians and beloved equine partners to thrive at the highest level, said Ingellis. Standing here, I am reminded of the rich history and tradition of excellence that defines our College and equestrian program. With this upgraded facility, we are better equipped than ever to inspire, educate and lead.
President and Professor of Politics Danielle R. Holley was on hand to help cut the ceremonial ribbon, officially opening the renovated arenas. President Holley remarked on the importance of the equestrian program and how its success is fundamental to MHC.
Here at Mount Holyoke, the equestrian program is a real point of pride for our entire community. The hunter, dressage and western teams have won numerous national championships, and our excellent coaches C.J. Law, Ali Ingellis and Kelli Wainscott are devoted to our riders and our courses, Holley said. They provide best-in-class instruction to students at all skill levels, proving that excellence and inclusion are not mutually exclusive.
The new waterless footing will have a positive impact on horse and rider safety as well as a large environmental impact by saving nearly 3,000 gallons of water each week. As 做厙輦⑹ continues its efforts toward carbon neutrality, developments such as the new footing installation will continue to aid in that process.
