ATHENS, GA. – Former University of Georgia equestrian team captain Gracie Himes has joined head coach Meghan Boenig’s staff as an assistant, it was announced Thursday.
Himes, a five-time letterwinner in Horsemanship, will act as an assistant coach primarily focusing on the western events. She comes from a family of equestrian competitors and continues to be a force in the arena.
“Having Gracie Himes join us in the arena this year is a phenomenal opportunity for our program,” Boenig said. “Her big-heart leadership comes from care, passion and investment. These traits translate perfectly into coaching. We know the team will feel this investment both inside and outside of the arena, and as coaches, we personally can’t wait for her join us in the clubhouse.”
As a Bulldog, Himes was named team captain for her senior season. She collected five Most Outstanding Performer honors throughout her career, while posting a 4-1 record on the road as a graduate.
“The Georgia equestrian team has profoundly shaped my college career and is something I take great pride in,” Himes said. “Mentoring and empowering my teammates has been the most fulfilling aspect of my time on the team, and I’m excited to continue this in my new position. I’m humbled by the opportunity to keep investing in the incredible program that has invested so much into me. It will always be an honor to be part of the Dawg community and the UGA equestrian team.”
Himes was named to the APHA NCEA All-Academic First Team in 2022 and Second Team in 2024. She was a five-time SEC Honor Roll honoree and a four-time J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Honor Roll recipient. After her graduate season, she was named to the J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Dean’s List.
“Gracie is someone who will bring a wealth of knowledge to our horsemanship event,” Associate Head Coach McKenzie Lantz said. “She has been a leader in this event for quite some time, and her laser focus that she brings to the fine details of the event will help us set ourselves apart. Her attention to detail and awareness of connecting with a horse will prove to be invaluable for the reining event. Gracie has consistently been an exemplary model for her teammates to follow, and I am looking forward to her stepping into this role and continuing to impact our riders here at Georgia.”
She was also unanimous champion of the 2018 World Show in Showmanship and earned multiple Reserve Champion, Top 5, Top 10 and finalist titles at the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Horsemanship, Showmanship, Equitation and Trail. Himes has consistently secured top placings at the AQHA World Shows, All American Quarter Horse Congress, and AQHA year-end results throughout both her youth and amateur careers.
Photo/Georgia Sports Communications/X
Georgia Sports Communications contributed to this column
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