Senior Jalyn McElmurray has committed to Oklahoma State University, where she plans to continue her competitive Equestrian career, in a top-notch and nationally recognized program.

   McElmurray started competitive riding 10 years ago, but rode her first horse 12 years ago, through the influence of her aunt. 

   Among countless titles and accomplishments, McElmurray has had a decorated career thus far. Her most proud moment was her American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) World Championship title this past year in western riding.

   McElmurray underwent the recruiting process throughout her junior year and was in contact with other top-ranked schools in the National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA): Southern Methodist University, the University of South Carolina, Texas Christian University, and Auburn University. Despite the interest from several competitive schools, McElmurray ultimately chose to continue her Equestrian career in Stillwater, Oklahoma with the Cowgirls. 

   “The coaches and the girls on the team were very welcoming and I loved the environment… I also loved the campus and the school itself,” McElmurray said.

   The Oklahoma State Cowgirls earned their first program National Title this past season, and are now ranked No. 1 in the preseason rankings, according to the NCEA. 

   McElmurray took a visit to the university this past weekend and anticipates an exciting and valuable next four years in the program. 

   “I’m looking forward to being part of the team, and to travel and compete with them,” McElmurray said. 

   After years spent at a level of high competition, McElmurray has stepped up and become a major contender in her sport. She travels for regional, national, and world-level events, where the competition is nothing short of the absolute best. 

   “This sport has taught me so much about hard work, patience, and discipline,” McElmurray said. 

   Though Equestrian may be a non-traditional sport, it has fostered an environment for McElmurray to grow a set of skills that will follow her beyond her time in the saddle.