By CAROLINE BECK, Alabama Daily News
Alabama Farmers Federation gifted a 2019 Duramax Diesel Chevrolet Silverado 2500 to the Auburn University Equestrian team after the group won its their sixth national championship this year.
Auburn had its first undefeated season since the sport was accepted by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in 1998.
As a way to celebrate their victory in the agricultural-related sport, ALFA donated the truck to the team.
Equestrian Coach Greg William was happy to accept the new truck and said it will be very useful for all of their needs in taking care of the horses.
“This truck is an amazing asset for us,” Williams said. “This is going to be a very nice vehicle to use when accepting donated horses or for safely transporting horses to the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.
“Plus, we can use it to pick up feed and move laundry for the horses from the equipment room to the barn. It looks so nice, as well. It’s like a marketing piece for our sport. I couldn’t be happier.”
The 2018-19 team included 15 seniors who completed their collegiate athletic careers with a 61-10 record, two Southeastern Conference championships, and three national championships in 2019, 2018 and 2016.
“Under Coach Williams’ leadership, Auburn’s equestrian program truly demonstrates a championship culture, resulting in consistent excellence in competition, the classroom and the community,” Auburn Director of Athletics Allen Greene said. “We deeply appreciate the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa for their extraordinary generosity.”
Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell said he was proud of Auburn’s Equestrian team and hopes they can continue with their success in agricultural-related athletics.
“It’s inspiring to see how committed these young women are to this sport, and it’s a pleasure to support the team with this truck donation,” said Parnell, who earned his degree in agricultural business and economics from Auburn. “They’ve definitely gotten a lot of people excited, and that’s a good thing for the entire agricultural community in the state.”