College of the Sequoias' Equestrian’s Maddy Nevels Shines on National Stage with Reining Title
Mill Spring, N.C. – College of the Sequoias equestrian student-athlete Maddy Nevels represented the Giants on the national stage May 1–3 at the Tryon International Equestrian Center, competing against top collegiate riders from across the country.
Nevels delivered an outstanding performance over the three-day event, competing in three classes and earning a fourth-place overall high point finish, while also being crowned National Champion in High Point Reining—an impressive accomplishment in her first year competing in reining. She also placed 11th in Individual Horsemanship, showcasing her versatility across events.
Facing top competition, Nevels rode past athletes from programs including Oregon State University, University of Nebraska, Mississippi State University, University of Delaware, Cornell University, Clemson University, and West Texas A&M University, among others.
"Maddy represented our program at the highest level this weekend," said Head Coach Kim Pitigliano. "To go out there and not only compete, but win a national championship in reining and place fourth overall against that level of competition is incredible. Not to mention how proud I am of her dedication and hard work. She rode smart and it paid off!"
Pitigliano also emphasized the significance of the accomplishment for the program. "This is a huge moment for our team. It shows that College of the Sequoias riders can compete with anyone in the country. We're really proud of Maddy and the way she carried herself and our program."
Her performance marks a major accomplishment for both Nevels and the College of the Sequoias equestrian program, showcasing the ability to compete—and succeed—against some of the nation's top riders.
