Equine Team | 5/6/2025 11:00:00 AM

The Oklahoma Panhandle State University equestrian team reached new heights this spring, sending two riders to the 2025 Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) National Championship—marking the second and third students in program history ever to qualify.

Sophomore Mitchell Addison-Ullom made history as OPSU's first-ever Level II Ranch Riding qualifier. Junior Eva Johnson, a consistent standout on the team, qualified in the most elite division of western competition, Open Reining, becoming only the second OPSU rider to ever qualify in this class.

Both riders traveled to the prestigious Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, North Carolina, competing against the best collegiate riders in North America. The IHSA National Championship hosted student-athletes from 107 colleges and universities across the United States and parts of Canada.

On Friday morning, Mitchell drew a talented and willing horse named Bingo—and was also drawn first in the order of go, a notoriously tough position. But he didn't let the pressure get to him. With a composed and confident ride, Mitchell delivered a beautiful pattern that earned him fourth place in the nation in his class.

On Saturday, Eva Johnson also drew Bingo for her Open Reining class. Competing in what was widely considered the toughest class of the weekend, she showcased poise and precision, guiding the little horse through a strong reining pattern. Her excellent performance earned her a fifth-place national finish.

Both riders' performances mark a major step forward for the OPSU equestrian program.

Coach Kacey Ward shared her pride in their accomplishments, saying:

"I couldn't be prouder of Eva and Mitchell. Their hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made history for our program. Qualifying for Nationals is a tremendous accomplishment, and it's a direct reflection of their commitment and heart. They've set the bar high, and I'm honored to be their coach."

With two top-five national finishes, the OPSU equestrian team proved it belongs on the biggest stage in collegiate western riding. The future is bright for the program, and the team is already looking ahead to another shot at Nationals next season.