Tega Cay resident Megan Cairns continued her exceptional equestrian journey this past weekend, claiming 1st place in Horsemanship at the IEA National Finals—the latest triumph in a string of achievements for the rising star from Serenity Stables in Waxhaw, NC.
Cairns secured her spot at nationals after winning the regional IEA competition in Lumberton, NC, in February 2025—a second straight regional championship that has set the stage for her national success. The talented rider previously earned national qualification in 2024 after triumphing at the Southeast Regionals in Tennessee, where she made her debut at the Nationals in Texas.
At this year’s IEA National Finals, held June 21–22, Megan distinguished herself in the Western Horsemanship class. The rigorous competition, featuring riders matched with unfamiliar horses, tests adaptability, poise, and effective riding technique. Megan’s skillful performance earned her the top honor in her division, underscoring her calm demeanor and precise execution under pressure.
IEA, a nonprofit organization founded in 2002, supports riders in grades 4–12 across hunt seat, western, and dressage disciplines—promoting development through competition on previously unknown horses. Its structure levels the playing field and fosters the core values of sportsmanship, horsemanship, and mental fortitude. With over 14,000 members nationwide, IEA has clearly played a pivotal role in Megan’s path to the national spotlight.
Congratulations to Megan Cairns on this outstanding national victory.
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
