By Victoria Williamson | Sports Editor
With fierce competition within the ODACs for student-athletes, winning a championship title in the conference is difficult. For Lynchburg Equestrian, though, winning a championship comes easy. The team recently won their second consecutive ODAC Head-to-Head Tournament Champion title.
Director of Equestrian Phillip Williamson, who has coached the team since 2020, was confident the team would have an outstanding run, noting their diligence, experience, and passion for the sport.
“I think that the opportunity to have been successful two years in a row deepens my confidence in our athletes and our program. It makes me proud of what we have accomplished over the last few years as we have really grown and changed,” said Williamson.
Earning an 84.5 in the tournament to assist in leading her team to victory, Fallyn Belcastro reflects on her mindset going into the championship, and how being lifted up by her teammates chasing the same goals impacted her ride.
“One thing that makes this team so special is that no matter how many titles we’ve won, that hunger to win never goes away. We never settle—we know that nothing is handed to us; it’s always earned through hard work and by showing up for our teammates when it matters most,” said Belcastro.
After a very successful season last year, Coach Williamson aimed to focus forward and not look back. He encouraged the team before ODACs by placing confidence in where they are currently and what they have worked on throughout the season, rather than comparing it to last year’s success.
“We try to make sure that the competing athletes are confident and prepared. Our advice when they walk into the ring to ride to your potential, and make sure you can be proud of what you’ve put in,” he said.
Working towards their next goal of a national title, Lynchburg Equestrian has the tools and talent needed on the team, and a coach committed to making that last push.
To follow along on their journey, visit the Lynchburg Sports Calendar.