Most individuals would believe horseback riding a fair-weather sport; however, the Seahorse Stables' IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association) runs from September to April and is one of only four of its kind in Maine.

IEA is a national association organized to promote and improve the quality of equestrian competition. The purpose is to set minimum standards for competition, provide information concerning the creation and development of school associated equestrian sport programs, promote the common interests of safe riding instruction and competition and education on matters related to the equestrian sport at the middle and high school levels (primarily ages 11 through 19).

It offers avid equestrians the opportunity to partake in a team sport. Unlike most equestrian competitions, riders do not need to provide their own horse or tack because the host team arranges for the horses and equipment. Head Coach, Stacy Bettler says, "We travel throughout New England for competitions. Horses are new to the riders and therefore offer a team bonding experience focused on time spent together, building confidence and true horsemanship."

This year the Seahorse IEA team plans to hold a Christmas Tree Recycling Fundraiser to help raise money for their team. For a $10 donation, team members will pick up and recycle your Christmas tree in the BelfastareaoneitherSaturday,December30th orSunday,December31st.Allyouhavetodoissignup, leave your tree in your front yard and the team members will do the rest. To reserve a Christmas tree pickup, please contact Kristine Lerner at 207.975.3576 or klerner@roadrunner.com. For more information about Seahorse and IEA please visit http://maineseahorsestables.com/iea/.