Equestrian Team

Flying Without Wings

U.S. Air Force Academy -- (U.S. Air Force photo/Trevor Cokley)

The mission of the U.S. Air Force Academy Equestrian Team is to foster a community of passionate riders who are dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in horsemanship, sportsmanship, and personal growth.

It was created in 2011 by a cadet who was passionate about riding horses and advancing her equine competition skill set. Other cadets who also shared a passion for horses and riding soon joined.

The team is composed of cadets with various riding experiences, ranging from Level 1 to Level 10 riders. The barn is seen as an escape from the pressures of the academy and a place where cadets can relax and enjoy the beautiful Colorado scenery.

The team is split into two sub-groups: the recreational team and the competition team. The recreational team focuses on basic riding skills and mainly goes on trail rides around the Academy and in the Colorado area. The competition team is focused on competing at various levels in shows ranging from gymkhanas, to show jumping, to dressage, around the country.

Club Accomplishments

The team has competed in various shows, including an All-Academy Show at West Point in 2022. Every year, the Equestrian and Rodeo teams also host an Equestrian vs. Rodeo competition where members of both teams can attempt events of the other discipline. They have won this competition multiple times.

Becoming a Member

All cadets are welcome to join the team. No riding experience is required to become a part of the club. Being a member of the equestrian team comes with various responsibilities, such as cleaning stalls, feeding the horses, providing water, offering first aid care, and learning proper grooming techniques.

Members must also pay the monthly club fee to fund the food and barn supplies needed to care for the team’s horses. Monthly morale events, including watching horse-themed movies, sleepovers at the barn, group dining outings, and team trail rides, are also encouraged for all members.

Learn about other club opportunities

Cadet Clubs