The IHA Spirit of Long Island Mounted drill team

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To entertain and demonstrate sportsmanship, horsemanship, teamwork and dedication.   

  “The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.”   ― Phil Jackson  

The Islip Horsemen's Association Spirit of Long Island Mounted Drill Team 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. In addition to improving horsemanship skills, working as a team 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 or would like to learn more about us, please contact Denise Ryder at Isliphorsemensassoc@gmail.com. 

The Islip Horsemen's Assoc. "Spirit of Long Island" Mounted Drill Team has been performing their precision drill since 1978.  Members of the drill team have changed over the years, but the enthusiasm and dedication to perfection has remained constant. 

The drill team is made up of riders of all disciplines. Some of our members have been with the team for over 10 years. Throughout 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, horse shows, parades and we have had the privilege of performing at both Belmont and Saratoga Racetracks. Each year, on Labor Day, the team has the honor of performing for the Veterans at the VA Hospital in Northport. From 2004 – 2006 the IHA Mounted Drill Team 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. We enjoy 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. 

For more information or questions on hiring us for your event please contact Denise Ryder at Isliphorsemensassoc@gmail.com

1. 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. 
2. 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.
3. 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!! 
4. 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. It is also required that each rider purchases a Suffolk County Park Horse permit. At the minimum you will also need to purchase a drill team practice shirt.
5. 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. 
6. Is there an age requirement? Yes, you must be at least 12 years old and able to control your horse at all gaits.