MILL SPRING, N.C. --- Cornell equestrian's Alexa Carey finished third in Corro Individual Introductory Equitation at the IHSA National Championships on Saturday at the Tryon International Indoor Complex, capping off an outstanding 2025-26 season.

The sophomore's third-place finish at nationals marked the culmination of a dominant campaign in introductory competition. Carey recorded seven first place finishes during the season, including victories at Cornell Show II, Alfred Show II and the Ivy Show.

Carey's path to nationals began with a regional championship in introductory at the Regional Championships on March 8. She then earned reserve champion honors at the Zone II Championships on April 4 to punch her ticket to the national stage.

The Big Red enjoyed a successful 2025-26 season, finishing second in the region overall and earning five High Point Team titles through nine shows. Cornell captured High Point Team honors at RIT Show II, Cornell Show I, Nazareth Show II, Cornell Show II and the Ivy Show.

Six Cornell riders advanced to the Zone II Championships, with Riley Gerardo earning regional championships in both open flat and open fences, Jianna Simcik capturing the regional championship in intermediate fences, Clara Beck winning the regional championship in limit fences, and Evelyn Gurvich claiming the regional championship in novice. Team horse Ren was named Regional Horse of the Year.