The Spirit of Long Island Mounted Drill Team
About Us
Our Mission
Our Mission
The Islip Horsemen's Association Mounted Drill Team "The Spirit of Long Island" has been performing their precision drill throughout New York and New Jersey since 1978. Members of the drill team have changed over the years, but the enthusiasm and dedication to perfection has remained constant.
The team is currently being coached by Loretta Hall who continues with the team’s tradition of keeping the American spirit alive. The drill team is made up of riders of all disciplines, some of whom have been with the team for over 10 years. Over the years our horses have ranged in age from 4 years to an impressive 33 years old and included such breeds as quarter horse, thoroughbred, appaloosa, hanovarian cross, morgan, tennessee walking horse, paso fino, welsh pony, arabian, paint and many more. The riders and their horses maintain a high level of discipline, resilience and a strong determination to achieve excellence. Throughout the year the team performs at local fairs and horse shows, and participates in parades across Long Island. We have had the privilege of performing at both Belmont and Saratoga Race Tracks and each year on Labor Day we have the Honor of performing for the Veterans at the VA Hospital in Northport. From 2004 – 2006 we held the title of Northeastern Regional Drill Team Champions and in 2009 more than a few dreams were realized when we were invited to participate in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “The Spirit of Long Island” Mounted Drill Team enjoys showing that a little hard work and lots of fun can result in a performance that not only entertains but is also an excellent example of good horsemanship.
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
To entertain and demonstrate sportsmanship, horsemanship, team work and dedication.
Overview
Our Mission
2022 Event Schedule
“The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” ― Phil Jackson
“The Spirit of Long Island” was formed in 1978 by IHA member, John Jorgensen who was a member of the New York City Mounted Police Unit.
Riding in a drill team improves both riding skills and connection to the horse. The patterns and music require riding your horse precisely and with control. Timing and synchronization are key elements. You must adjust your horse’s speed, make exact turns and ride accurate patterns to keep time with the music and other horses and riders. It is excellent training for the horse as well. He/she must listen for cues and respond to your requests immediately. In addition to improving horsemanship skills, working as a team member with a common goal for the whole team promotes cooperation and consideration. The focus is on unity rather than competition. Team members learn to support one another and help each other be successful in order to create a pleasing pattern. Riding in a drill team encourages good communication and compassion. Drill riding is one of the oldest forms of organized riding, and dates back to Cavalry soldiers who needed to coordinate with each other as they rode into battle.
If you are interested in becoming a member of The Spirit of Long Island or would like to learn more about us, please contact Loretta Hall at RettHall@aol.com.
2022 Event Schedule
2022 Event Schedule
2022 Event Schedule
*All dates are subject to change*
Weekly practice at The Bohemia Equestrian Center from 5:45PM - 7:15PM.
The Spirit of Long Island Flag Riders present the Flag at the IHA Horse Shows. See the individual disciplines for show dates.
Sunday, May 22 - Muttontown Horsemen's Association Festival of Horses at Muttontown Preserve - performance time approx. 11:30AM
Monday, May 30 - Bohemia Fire Dept. Memorial Day Parade - Parade steps off approx. 10:00AM
Friday, June 10 - Belmont Stakes Festival at Belmont Race Track - Performance time approx. 3:15PM
Sunday, June 12 - Floral Park Belmont Stakes Street Festival in Floral Park - Performance time approx. 3:00PM
*Sunday, July 21 - ECRA Performance
during lunch break
*Monday, Sept. 5 - VA Hospital at Northport - performance approx. 11:30AM
Friday, Sept. 15 - LIFair at Old Bethpage Restoration Village - Drill Team "Meet and Greet" at the Fair - all day
Saturday, Sept. 16 - LIFair at Old Bethpage Restoration Village - Performance times 11:30 & 2:30
Sunday, Sept. 17 - Heritage Fair at the Smithtown Historical Society
Performance times 11:30 & 2:30
Saturday, Sept. 24 Equus Fest East @ Ulster County Fairgrounds - Drill Team Demonstration at 10:30AM and Performance at 1:00PM
Saturday, October 1 - PumpkinFest at Suffolk County Farm and Education Center in Yaphank
Performance times 11:30AM and 2:00PM
Sunday, October 2 - Harvest the East End Event @ The Warrior Ranch Foundation in Calverton - Performance time approx. 3:00PM
For more information or questions on hiring us for your event contact:
Coach Loretta Hall
516-241-2753
FAQs
2022 Event Schedule
FAQs
- What kind of horses do you allow? We use all types of horses — quarter horses, thoroughbreds, & most any breed that can handle being close to other horses.
- Does everyone own their own horse? Most of the riders do own their own horse, some lease or borrow from a friend; the club does not provide any horses.
- How do I become part of the team? If you want to be a part of the team, we have you come watch, then we basically put you in with the team to ride. If you and your horse get along with all we do and can make the majority of our practices and performances, then we consider you a part of the team!!
- Is it expensive to be on the team? We try very hard to keep your cost down which is why we rely on sponsorships and fundraisers so much. This money is used to help pay our operating costs every year. There will be other costs as we order equipment and uniforms for the team. Among other things you can expect to pay an annual drill team fee of $25.00 and your IHA membership fee. At the minimum you will also need to purchase a drill team practice shirt.
- How often do you practice and where? From March - October we practice every Wednesday at 5:45PM until about 7:15PM at the Bohemia Equestrian Center off Sycamore Avenue in Bohemia. Following practice the team usually gathers for a BBQ. Check with the coach for off season practice.
- Is there an age requirement? Yes, you must be at least 12 years old and able to control your horse at all gaits.
- How do you get that glitter to stay on the horses? Lots of hair spray!