Recreational Sports

When Chanelle Baer began her college search, her father insisted that the California native take a look at the University of Oregon. “My dad wanted me to be a Duck, but when we went to Eugene to visit I felt like I got lost.” Luckily, Baer also visited Oregon State University.  During that visit Baer knew Corvallis was a place she could call home.

Not only was she drawn to Beaver Nation’s strong academic programs and beautiful campus, she knew that her horses could also have a happy home here. Baer started riding at the age of fourteen. She received her first horse at seventeen, and then another horse just last year. To her, her horses are like family and having a school that allowed her to keep them close by and well cared for was essential.

Baer spends her time studying for a double major in political science and business, along with minors in German, animal science, and communications. She’s also active in Greek life. When she’s not busy with all of that, she loves spending time with her dog Jack, and volunteering at the Heartland Humane Society. Despite her busy schedule, Baer is sure to make time for her horses and is an active member and secretary of Oregon State University’s Event Team.

Many may be unfamiliar with what Eventing (also known as Horse Trials) includes; Baer describes it as the “triathlon of horse back riding”, comprised of three days: the first day being dressage, then cross-country, and the last day is stadium jumping.  Being on the Event Team requires involvement in a variety of events.  “The Event Team is a really great place to learn about our sport, ” Baer remarked.

Although challenging at times, the event teams welcoming environment and supportive training makes the team a safe and positive place for inexperienced riders. Baer says that while some experience can be helpful, “Our coach Brooke Phillips is a phenomenal trainer with experience with people of all levels.” Another key element of training is that groups are coordinated by skill levels so that everyone can participate at their skill level, and be challenged . No matter what the skill level of the rider, Baer believes in the value of hard work: “There are so many opportunities to offer our members if you put in the work.”

The team usually has monthly meetings and shares updates through email and social media. However, there is always the opportunity to become more involved.

“Our team provides the opportunity to build social and athletic skills and the chance to meet people you wouldn’t have normally made friends with on a day to day basis due to different interests.” Her teammates allow her to make connections within the equestrian community as well as on campus. When spending time with the team, she says, “We’re not afraid to get our dorky side on. It’s nice to not feel guarded around others and be able to share your fears and goals. It’s not a pressured environment.” She also feels that this support helps her develop skills that she can carry both back into the classroom and beyond.

Baer had played intramural volleyball for four years and had some interaction with Recreational Sports programs, her leadership role on the Event Team helped her dive even deeper. “As secretary of a sports club, I’ve had the chance to go behind the scenes of the business side, learning about finance, and attending budgeting workshops.” One of Baer’s goals is to earn a Master’s Degree in marketing, so this hands on experience not only helps her build connections within the Recreational Sports community, but also develops transferrable skills that will help her achieve her long-term goals.

In addition to the social and educational benefits, Baer loves that being part of the team provides her with a mental release, saying it is a fun way to get out and be active.” She has even tried introducing her friends to the sport and finds that they’re surprised by how much of a workout riding can be. “If you’ve never ridden before, you’re going to get a workout. You’ll work muscles you didn’t know you had.” The occasional soreness is worth it to Baer though, because of all the joy and benefits that come along with being a part of the team.  

Baer aspires that the club continues to grow and support both experienced and new riders, as well as continue to compete with other schools. She also hopes that their upcoming annual schooling show, an event that raises proceeds for their club, can continue as a long lasting tradition. In addition to her vision for the team, she knows that the skills and experiences she is building as a member will help her reach her personal goals. Being part of a sport club has been a fundamental part of her college experience and has helped her feel even more connected to the community. “Sport clubs provide a community of a lot of students with very different backgrounds who come together around a shared interest, ” She shared. This community has helped foster her as a rider, individual, and a proud member of Beaver Nation.

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