She wins 3 individual state titles, joins Hartland, Sharpe and Borland for relay win

The Colton High equestrian team may be somewhat small, but it’s plenty mighty.

The Vikings came home from the state competition in Redmond over the weekend with some spectacular performances.

Most notable was the efforts of Taylor Thomas, who snagged individual state titles in Saddle Seat, Hunt Seat, and Trail equitation. She also teamed with Kendall Hartland, McKayla Sharpe and Catie Borland to take the state title in the In-Hand Obstacle Relay event.

Taylor, who was busy during the state event at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds May 8-11, also snagged second place in Hunt Seat over Fences at the event.

But wait, the season isn’t over. Taylor will join her teammates in the relay event, as well as compete in all the individual events at the Pacific North West Invitational Championships June 20-22 in Redmond.

“These hard-working athletes really deserve some recognition as they work year-round with their horses, training and riding,” said equestrian team adviser Paula Hartland. “They then practice two to three times a week from November to June for their regular season, state and regional competitions. The girls are led by their coaches Briana and Danny Pettichord, Lauren Haney and adviser Paula Hartland.”

Point Scoring Champ

When the dust had settled, Taylor Thomas was awarded the High Point Performance rider buckle for the state meet.