The Diehl Me In Middle School Western IEA Team has clinched a historic qualification for the International Equestrian Association (IEA) Western National finals as a team, marking a first-time achievement.

Mia Powell, Riley Eggleton, Abigail Haff and Emily Olsen, students at Sullivan West, will proudly represent the New York Region at the National Finals in Forth Worth, TX on June 22. Under the expert coaching of Megan Diehl Blumenthal, these dedicated students have been rigorously training since the start of the Western IEA Season in late August 2023.

The team’s hard work will be showcased in Horsemanship and Ranch Riding classes, with Emily Olsen also qualifying as an individual rider in the Ranch Riding Class. 

But what is the IEA? It’s a nonprofit organization providing youth in grades 4-12 with opportunities to compete in team and individual equestrian events without the financial burden of horse ownership. Offering competitions in hunt seat, Western and dressage disciplines, IEA promotes skill development and camaraderie among young riders.

With the excitement of Nationals on the horizon, the team is seeking sponsorship to cover entry fees, flights and accommodations for themselves, their chaperones and Coach Blumenthal. 

An online fundraising platform has been set up to support these talented riders in their quest for national recognition. To contribute, visit spot.fund/pgcx3sc and help make their dreams a reality. Let’s rally behind the Diehl Me In Middle School Western IEA Team as they ride towards victory on the national stage!

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