A ribbon cutting marked the official opening of the new covered arena at the Auburn University Horse Center Friday, Nov. 7. Pictured at the event are, from left: Dr. Timothy Boosinger, Auburn University provost; Dr. Wayne Greene, Department of Animal Sciences head and professor; Dr. Bill Batchelor, College of Agriculture dean; Coach Greg Williams, Auburn Equestrian Team head coach; Melena Smith, Auburn Equestrian Team member; and Bob Dumas, Auburn University trustee.
AUBURN, Ala.—A ribbon-cutting ceremony today at Auburn University’s new covered equestrian arena marked the official opening of the facility that is home to the three-time national champion Auburn equestrian team.
Construction began on the $2 million arena in March and was completed earlier this fall. In addition to serving as “home field” for the equestrian team, the arena will provide educational space for the College of Agriculture’s equine science program.
On hand for the event were Auburn University Provost Tim Boosinger, Auburn University Trustee Bob Dumas, College of Agriculture Dean Bill Batchelor, Department of Animal Sciences Head Wayne Greene, Auburn Equestrian Head Coach Greg Williams and others.
“This arena is a real testament to the commitment of our faculty, staff, alumni and stakeholders and a good example of Auburn’s athletic department supporting the academic mission of Auburn University,” said Batchelor.
Williams, now in his 17th year as the team’s head coach, thanked the university, athletics department and college for their support of the equestrian program, adding that the arena played a critical role in recruiting future team members. Signing day for those recruits is next week, according to Williams.
Following the ceremony, Auburn took on the Aggies of Texas A&M University. Auburn equestrian is currently ranked fifth in the nation.
