SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – The Skidmore College riding team, one of the most successful collegiate equestrian programs in the nation, will officially transition to a coed format beginning in the fall of 2025.
 
The move aligns Skidmore's program with the broader equestrian community, where men and women compete together in most formats, including the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) and the Olympics. It also reinforces Skidmore's commitment to competitive excellence and opportunity for all student-athletes.
 
"The equestrian sport community at large operates as a coed discipline, with men and women competing equally at the highest levels," said Skidmore College Athletic Director Gail Cummings-Danson. "Aligning Skidmore's program with this standard enhances its reputation and prepares students for broader competition while also creating an athletic environment that values talent, dedication, teamwork, and belonging."
 
Skidmore's riding program has a storied history, earning nine IHSA national team titles since 1990, most recently in 2023. No other team has won more national championships.
 
By opening competition opportunities to male riders, the program strengthens its ability to attract top equestrian talent and provide participation for all students, while continuously improving its commitment to competitive greatness.
 
"We are very excited to welcome men to the Skidmore riding team as we transition to coed," said head coach Belinda Colgan '04. "Allowing the opportunity for both men and women to compete together equally is unique in collegiate sports, and we are excited for this next chapter of Skidmore Riding."
 
The College anticipates that the move to coed will contribute to an even stronger and more dynamic team, continuing Skidmore's legacy of excellence in collegiate riding.
 
For more information about the Skidmore College riding team, visit SkidmoreAthletics.com.