[Re-posted from Jan. 8]
Drew was satisfied with his practice for Chisholm Challenge this next week with Tommy. And no, Tommy did not eat Susan, she just happened to be grooming Tommy at the time. Riders have been practicing for a number of weeks for Chisholm Challenge events.
Chisholm Challenge is one of the first “events” in the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo donates the John Justin Arena and other amenities such as use of the Will Rogers Coliseum to Chisholm Challenge. Over 550 volunteers donate their time and efforts to Chisholm Challenge.
Chisholm Challenge will begin on Monday with the Equestrians with Disabilities competition in the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) events. On Tuesday and Wednesday, North Texas Area Therapeutic Riding Centers – of which New Hope Equine Assisted Therapy is one – will compete in events such as English Equitation, Western Equitation, RANCH Riding, Showmanship, Barrels, Pole Bending, Drill Team, Driving and Trail.
New Hope riders will participate in Western Equitation, Trail, and Barrels, as well as Drill Team. The majority will be riding in Trail. All three events – and all the events when it comes down to it – are a matter of demonstrating control of the horse. Whether that be with a side walker, side walker and horse leader, or, for those who are older or less challenged, with no assistance. New Hope riders are younger and fall mostly into the first two categories.
The events will be free and open to the public. Stay tuned for more on Chisholm Challenge and New Hope’s involvement.
Ride on and ride for hope.