MINDY MCMINN DARST PASSES AWAY

Mindy Darst, who was Mindy McMinn when she graduated from Miami University of Ohio in 1982, passed away on June 2nd after a lengthy battle with cancer.

McMinn competed at multiple IHSA Nationals during her four years on the Red Hawk team. McMinn and then teammate Jim Arrigon (who today is the IHSA National Secretary) had the opportunity to speak with then Vice President Walter Mondale at 1979 IHSA Nationals (Mondale was attending as his daughter Eleanor was competing for St. Lawrence University).

After graduating from Miami McMinn became head coach of the Ball State University equestrian team. In her first season the Ball State Western team won the IHSA National Championship.

McMinn Darst was a founder of the United States Hunter Jumper Association and the US Pony Finals. Darst was an officer with the USEF and USHJA for many years. From 1990 forward, McMinn Darst trained at her Lochmoor Stables in Lebanon, Ohio. Many of the ponies and horses she trained went on to win major ribbons.

A judge at many IHSA shows over the years, Darst was originally scheduled to judge the December 7, 2013 Holiday Tournament of champions but became too ill to do so. Darst is survived by her husband Greg, son John, daughter Maddy and stepdaughter Jenny.