The Faces Behind Educated Rider
Founded in 2023, Educated Riders was created by former student-athletes who know firsthand what it takes to navigate the collegiate recruiting process. Our team combines personal experience, hands-on knowledge, and a deep love for the sport to help riders find the right programs, tell their story, and maximize every opportunity. Whether you’re just starting your recruiting journey or aiming to compete at the highest level, we provide guidance, support, and insider expertise to make the process less overwhelming and more successful.
Founder / Head of Jumping Seat Recruiting
Raegan Rast Bennett
I fell in love with riding at eight years old in Kansas and spent every spare moment at the barn, eventually working with top professionals and discovering a passion for both horses and business. Even though I qualified for Big Eq finals every year but never got to attend, those challenges taught me how to persevere and market myself during the Division I recruiting process. Texas Christian University believed in me, and I graduated with a BBA in Marketing and an MS in Business Analytics while earning honors like Big 12 Rider of the Year, NCEA All-American, and Jumping Seat Captain. I believe riding in college is an incredible opportunity to pursue your passion, build lifelong connections, and open doors for your future.
Head of Western Recruiting / Creative Strategist
Madyson Buchanan
Growing up in Arizona, I discovered my love for horses at just four years old and spent every spare moment at the barn, exploring nearly every riding discipline before discovering my true passion in horsemanship and reining. Even though my path to collegiate riding wasn’t always straightforward, I stayed persistent—attending camps, connecting with coaches, and continuing to work hard—which ultimately led to my commitment to TCU during my senior year. At TCU, I focused on reining, served as team captain, and graduated with a degree in Journalism and Film while taking on leadership roles in student organizations and representing the university at the Big 12 level. I believe riding in college is an amazing opportunity to pursue your passion, grow as a person, and create lifelong memories and opportunities.
WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF NCAA COLLEGIATE EQUESTRIAN
Founded by former student-athletes, Educated Rider helps riders successfully navigate the collegiate recruiting process. We combine hands-on experience, proven strategies, and insider knowledge to connect you with the right program and set you up for success both in and out of the saddle.
Personalized Recruiting Roadmap
We create a tailored step-by-step plan based on your goals, academic profile, and riding achievements—so you know exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to stand out to coaches.
Academic & Athletic Positioning
We guide you in showcasing both your riding accomplishments and academic achievements, ensuring you meet NCAA standards and appeal to the right programs.
College Equestrian Insights
With firsthand experience and deep industry connections, we give you honest, detailed information about each program, helping you find the right fit academically, athletically, and personally.
Coach Outreach Strategy
We help you craft compelling introductory emails, riding résumés, and YouTube Channels that grab attention and leave a lasting impression with college coaches.
Confidence in the Process
We’re with you every step of the way, answering questions, easing worries, and making sure you feel prepared, informed, and empowered in your recruiting journey.
UNIVERSITIES OUR RIDERS HAVE RECEIVED OFFERS FROM
When I decided I wanted to explore riding in college I had no idea where to start. Raegan’s immense amount of experience and knowledge about collegiate riding opened my eyes to all the options out there. Raegan spent the time getting to know me, and in the process helped me figure out what I was looking for in a college and team experience. Raegan helped me in designing a plan to get to my goal, and reaches out frequently to ensure that I’m consistently working on all the steps to get there. She is always there to answer my questions and gives great advice. In addition to being incredibly knowledgeable about the recruitment process, she’s like a big sister that wants the best for you and is always cheering you on. Raegan is the best!
Hampton - SMU Class of 2025 Jumping Seat Commit
We were absolutely thrilled with the exceptional experience we had with Raegan and Educated Rider. Her thorough understanding of the collegiate equestrian recruiting journey and personalized approach made all the difference. She answered all of our questions and guided us every step of the way. She helped match our daughter with her dream school. We can’t recommend their services enough to rider interested in collegiate riding.
Kelly - Parent of Baylor Class of 2025 Jumping Seat Commit
Once I made the decision to start the recruiting process, I wasn’t sure how to best present myself and my accomplishments. Partnering with Educated Rider gave me confidence that I was going through recruitment properly, and helped me get in front of coaches in a way that best represented my capabilities. Raegan’s connection with many of the Division I coaches was imperative in helping choose the best team for me, along with getting my name recognized among the sea of recruits. Educated Rider allowed me to be recognized by Division I coaches and ultimately find my future home at TCU. I will always be grateful for Educated Rider’s guidance while I navigated the exciting but, at times, overwhelming recruitment process.
Annie - TCU Class of 2025 Jumping Seat Commit
Success Stories
