Zone IV Champions, Again!

Joey Fink’s winning open over fences round aboard “Ghandi.”  Photo Credit: Caroline Lurie

Gophers Edge Out a Win Over St. Andrews

It was an unseasonably chilly spring day, but with the help and hard work of friends and dedicated students, Goucher was able to host and win the 2014-2015 Zone IV championships.

After another illustrious regional season, the Gophers were once again up against stiff competition at the Zone IV championships. The Gophers faced off against St. Andrews University, Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, and the University of Mary Washington for the top two coveted spots that earn a trip to the national finals.

Goucher started the day off strong with wins in individual intermediate flat, and both open flat and open fences from veteran seniors Laura Malone and Joey Fink, respectively. Fink’s success was followed closely with a second from sophomore Alison Radgowski in team intermediate flat. The Gophers continued the day, earning fifth in team intermediate fences and fourth in team novice fences. Throughout the rest of the day, the Gophers dominated their flat classes with junior Anna Carmichael placing second, senior Joel Brandis placing first, and sophomore Sarah Lummis also placing first.

As the day progressed, Goucher and St. Andrews split away from the pack but were neck and neck. Goucher and St. Andrews ended the day tied for first, both earning 43 points. Goucher came away with the championship by winning the tiebreaker—the most blue ribbons.

In addition to the team overall wins, the Gophers had several individuals wins. Senior Joey Fink competed in individual open flat and individual open fences. Fink won his flat class, ensuring him another ride at nationals, and placed third in his over fences class. Junior Erika Scott also competed, earning a sixth place finish in advanced walk trot canter.

There was just one more big surprise for the day: Bob Cacchione, executive director of the IHSA, flew in to be a part of Zone IV finals. He was there to honor the beloved former director of the Goucher Equestrian Program, Patte Zumbrun, with the IHSA Lifetime Achievement Award. Congrats, Patte!