The West Texas A&M University Ranch Horse Team commenced its competitive season with a significant victory at the Aggieland Classic, held from September 25-28, 2023, in Bryan, Texas. This event marks the team’s first step toward their objective of securing another national championship title.
Among the talented competitors was Kaylea Marionneaux, a freshman majoring in agricultural business and economics from Zachary. The team showcased impressive performances, with several members achieving placements in the Top 10 across various categories.
Lance Baker, a professor of animal science and the head coach of the ranch horse team, expressed satisfaction with the team’s initial showings. “I was really pleased with the individual performances at our first show of the year,” Baker stated. He highlighted the need for continuous improvement, noting, “We noted some areas that we need to improve on and will work on those at our next show as we get ready for our World Championship in Abilene at the end of the month.”
In a standout performance, Marin McCarthy, a freshman agribusiness major from Fort Worth, clinched the championship title in the limited non-pro category. She was joined by her teammates, with Haylee Triplitt, a senior agribusiness major from Gouldbusk, finishing sixth and Lela Chisholm, a freshman agribusiness major from Graham, taking eighth place in the same category.
The team’s aspirations are buoyed by their recent successes. In April, they celebrated their first Division 1 national championship at the NIRSHA’s Collegiate National Championship Show in Amarillo. Additionally, they secured their first Division 1 world championship at the Stock Horse of Texas World Championship in Abilene in November 2023.
As the season progresses, the West Texas A&M Ranch Horse Team looks to build on this victory, preparing for the upcoming World Championship with the aim of further enhancing their skills and competitive edge. The dedication and talent demonstrated by the team indicate promising prospects for the remainder of the season.