0 Houghton equestrian professor Larissa Ries standing with horse.

Houghton Professor earns Silver Medal Rider Award from USDF

June 27, 2023

Larissa (Strappello ’08) Ries, Assistant Professor and Director of Equestrian Studies at Houghton, recently earned the Silver Medal Rider Award from United States Dressage Federation in recognition of her high scores and horse performance at various shows.

At the USEF/USDF recognized Houghton University Spring Dressage I & II show held each year during the first weekend in June, competitors from all over came to compete. Along with coordinating the event, Professor Ries also participated in the show and obtained the final two scores she needed to achieve the Silver Medal Rider Award.

It was truly a dream come true to have the opportunity to compete at this level. My partner was a university lesson horse named Dawsonโ€™s Creek, or DC. He is truly a blessing to ride, compete and teach students on. I am excited to continue to learn and grow in my own riding in the future, so I can share with those I am teaching.

Houghton professor Larissa Ries riding horse at Equestrian Center.
Houghton professor Larissa Ries riding horse at Equestrian Center.
Photo credit: Abigail Forsberg

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