The Sacred Heart University equestrian team concluded its 2025-26 season at the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) National Championship, held at Tryon International in Mill Spring, North Carolina, according to a May 1 announcement.
This event marked the culmination of the team’s year, with two student-athletes representing Sacred Heart on a national stage. Competing against top collegiate riders from across the country, Kylie Hwalek and Isabella Ruisi delivered strong performances that highlighted their seasons.
Hwalek participated in the Open Fences division and achieved a sixth-place finish. Qualifying for nationals in this division is considered one of the highest accomplishments in collegiate equestrian competition and reflects Hwalek’s consistent success throughout the year.
Ruisi earned Reserve Champion honors with a second-place finish in Limit Fences. This podium result was one of Sacred Heart’s best finishes during the championship weekend and added another milestone to her season achievements.
The individual results for Sacred Heart included Hwalek placing sixth in Open Fences and Ruisi earning Reserve Champion status with her second-place finish in Limit Fences. The performances by both athletes capped off an impressive campaign for the Pioneers.
