Lauren Thompson, a seventh grade student at South Effingham Middle School, has been awarded the honor of representing her school and the Evermore Farm middle school equestrian team at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association hunt seat national finals on April 18 in West Springfield, Mass.

She earned her place in the national arena by winning at both the local and regional levels throughout the season.

“These are the best of the best,” said Wayne Ackerer, president of IEA.

The Evermore Farm middle school team coached by Eleanor Ellis and Elise Wolpert placed first overall at the zone championships held in Conyers last weekend.

The riders draw the horses they will ride in competition the day of the event. They are judged on their equitation and ability to control an unfamiliar horse over a fence course that is posted that day.

They also ride an unfamiliar horse in a flat class where they are judged on equitation and horsemanship.

The IEA works to develop understanding and appreciation of equine sports through organized student competitions and events while providing additional equine educational opportunities.

The finals will consist of competitions and a college fair. This affords college representatives the time to introduce themselves to the youth, parents and coaches.