Avery Wright, a 12-year-old student from The Grier School in Tyrone, won a national title in the Future Beginner Walk Trot Canter division at the 2026 Interscholastic Equestrian Association National Finals held on April 25 in St. Louis, Missouri. Competing against top riders nationwide, Avery was randomly assigned a horse named Regal and was judged on precision, control, and form. Despite initial anxiety about meeting her horse only minutes before competing, Avery’s performance was marked by joy and confidence, earning her first place and marking a significant milestone in her equestrian career.

Avery began horseback riding lessons at age five and transitioned to competitive showing at eight, quickly demonstrating talent by placing first and third in her first show against adults. Recently named regional reserve champion, she now advances to the more challenging Futures division, where she will be judged on advanced movements. With aspirations to continue riding competitively and eventually own her own horse and farm, Avery’s national title highlights her dedication and promising future in equestrian sports.