This year’s equestrian team is living proof that size does not dictate success. Despite being a team of only two people, senior captain Catharine Malzahn and sophomore Charlotte Zovighian are excited for the coming season.

“My favorite part of being on the equestrian team is the team spirit. Even though we’re a tiny team of two this year, Charlotte and I have a great time and have fun with our horses,” Malzahn said.

Malzahn has another reason to look forward to the coming winter athletic season: it will be her last of four as a member of the team.

“I’m most excited to have a great final season and compete against some other riders who I’ve been riding with for the past four years. The last four years have gone by so quickly and I can’t wait to see what the rest of this season brings!” Malzahn said.

Although the reappearance of the Equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) has postponed their season, Malzahn and Zovighian are looking forward to their second show on Jan. 7-8 at Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park in San Juan Capistrano. Their first was Oct.29-30 before the virus had spread.

EHV-1 has been known to cause abortion, respiratory disease and occasionally neonatal mortality in horses. Because it is easily transmissible, the Interscholastic Equestrian League canceled the two shows planned for November and December.

The shows have been rescheduled to January and February, and Malzahn and Zovighian are hopeful for a season just as successful as their last!