COLUMBUS, Ohio The Kansas State equestrian team completed day two of competition at the IHSA National Championships with an exciting finish, as senior Brandi Vogel was named the Reserve National Champion after tying for first place in the Open Reining class.  Four riders competed for the English team today, while three riders competed in the Western division. 

The English team currently sits in tenth place.  Senior Allison Woodworth rode for the Cacchione Cup and accumulated 78.5 points.  Her final placing in the competition will be announced tomorrow.  Junior Lauren Demmel placed sixth in Intermediate Equitation Over Fences, while freshman Lianna Bodlack placed fourth in Walk/Trot.  Senior Dehlia Burdan competed in Open on the Flat, but did not place.

The Western team is sitting in fifth place, as there is a three-way tie for second place.  Sophomore Nicole Ruff rode for the High Point Rider award, and her final placing will be announced tomorrow after she competes in the Reining class.  Sophomore Valerie Meyer placed fourth in Intermediate Horsemanship, while senior Rachel Pierson competed in Novice Horsemanship, but did not place.  The highlight of the day was Vogel’s Reserve National Championship, which came after a ride-off in which Vogel fell short of the National title by half a point.

“The day was amazing and the girls rode very well,” assistant coach Nichole Tiffany said.  “They were focused and disciplined, and they looked wonderful.  It was an exciting day and we couldn’t be happier.  We’re looking forward to another great day tomorrow.”

The third day of competition at the IHSA National Championships will begin tomorrow at 8 a.m.