Walled Lake Central and Northern equestrian teams claim district titles

(Photo: Apply of Our Eye Photography)

Walled Lake Central rider Mady Pavuk and the Walled Lake Northern equestrian team shined over the weekend each claiming Michigan Interscholastic Horsemanship Association (MIHA) district championships.

The Knights’ equestrian team, comprised of six riders and one team groom, secured their Division B district title with many first-place rides across all three meets in Showmanship, Saddle Seat, Hunt, Western and Speed events.

“We’re incredibly proud of all the riders,” said Northern coaches, Tracy Walker and Kim Hoover. “Their commitment to excellence, sportsmanship and team spirit truly reflect the values of Walled Lake Consolidated Schools and the MIHA.”

Walled Lake Northern junior Ava Atwood was also honored with the MIHA’s Sportsmanship Award at the close of the regular season. Atwood’s selfless dedication was recognized not only for her exceptional care of her own horse, but also for her consistent support of Pavuk during early meet mornings.

“Ava truly embodies what this sport is all about; teamwork, compassion and a love for the horses,” noted several coaches during the nomination process. “Her recognition is well deserved.”

Pavuk took home her third-straight district championship in the newly created E Division, which focuses on inclusion of riders with disabilities. Previously the EWD Division, which stands for Equines with Disabilities, was a pilot program that allowed riders with disabilities to compete along with their peers on their school's team against riders with similar abilities. This season it became a permanent fixture in the MIHA.

"I'm very proud of what she has accomplished both in the arena herself as well as for the sport and other riders out there working on overcoming their own challenges,” said Greg Pavuk, Mady’s father and coach.

The MIHA Regional Championships begin this Friday at the Shiawassee County Fairgrounds.