Owning your own horse is not required in order to compete with our team. The OCEA shows are based on catch riding system. This means that a horse is drawn from a pool of horses from the host school and you are asked to ride it after watching a designated warm-up rider warm the horse up. These horses are provided by our lovely donors who help us make sure our OCEA competitions run well. Our lesson program will also provide the horse for you.

Our lesson program is not mandatory, however, we encourage taking a lesson before each competition.

There are a few costs incurred throughout the season, however we try and keep costs to a minimum through fundraising events. Riders can expect to pay: - Tryout Fee: ~$40 - ARC Membership and Transport Fees: ~ $250-$400 - OCEA Membership Fee: ~$75 - Ontario Equestrian (or other current provincial) Membership: ~$80 - Show Entry Fee: ~$90/show There are other events throughout the year (i.e. finals, banquet, if we stay at a hotel etc.) that are at an additional cost. All of the costs are subject to change.

Yes! Being a part of the Queen’s Equestrian Team requires a commitment to compete. Attending each show encourages riders support team members and gain an understanding of how the OCEA runs, even if you are not competing. We make all shows an extremely fun environment! We recognize there may be conflicts and we will be accommodating for certain circumstances. We expect ALL TEAM MEMBERS, whether alternate or core, to attend the QET hosted show.

If you have never ridden before, we encourage you to check out the Queen's Equestrian Club which offers lessons and horsemanship classes. If you have never competed before, we encourage you to try out for the Entry division! If you have any specific questions regarding your riding background and suitability for the team, please send us an email!

Yes! The OCEA allows all graduate and part-time students to compete.

Yes! You will need: an ASTM/SEI certified helmet, tan/beige breeches, tall boots or paddock boots with half chaps, a show coat (black, navy blue or hunter green) and white show shirt, gloves and hairnet. It is possible that teammates may lend show equipment, but it is expected that you have your own. No personal tack is needed.

For each division we will have 2 CORE riders and 3 ALTERNATE riders, consisting of a team of about 20 riders, but we have had larger teams in the past. Please keep in mind that alternate riders may not have the opportunity to ride, this is highly dependent on horse availability at the shows. Alternate riders are still expected to be a part of the team.