Riders Test Skills at Cowboy Challenge and Horsemanship Show
Dust rose and cheers echoed through the International Equestrian Center as riders of all ages took on the Cowboy Challenge and Horsemanship Show this past weekend. From swinging gates to shooting a toy gun, the challenge was a perfect mix of excitement and down-home cowboy spirit.
The Cowboy Challenge and Horsemanship Show, held Saturday, July 19, at 8 am at the International Equestrian Center, is part of the community's growing horsemanship series. It brought together local equestrians to navigate a timed obstacle course designed to test both rider control and horse confidence.
The show was presented by IEC horse trainer, Joann Henrickle. The classes were judged on handling, directional control, speed, and gait while executing a pattern and showcasing the partnership between horse and rider with optimal effectiveness and minimal effort. Sabrina Smith judged the event.
The divisions included showmanship in-hand, leadline, walk/trot, and walk/trot/lope/canter for ages 12 and under and 13 and over. The Cowboy Challenge tested the riders' skill and control of their horses while completing challenging obstacle courses that included shooting a toy gun at a target, and "swinging gate," an obstacle where the horse had to push a ball with its nose or front legs.
Henrickle says her favorite part of the event is seeing people enjoying their horses. A lot goes into taking care of horses, and she enjoys seeing them and their riders escape their daily grind of feeding and cleaning. At this event, riders and horses can participate in a fun challenge.
Saturday was the second cowboy challenge for contestant Melissa Merrick, riding Cody. She has been riding since she was 11 years old, doing it for fun while developing her skills in horsemanship and equitation. She loves to experience new things and enjoys encouraging her horse's curiosity while navigating obstacles. She and her horse also enjoy meeting new people.
Another rider, Riley Kirkland, 14, has been riding for 7 years. She rode Maisy, who belongs to Sam Connolly. At this event, Kirkland competed in the walk/trot challenge. She likes to get out to hang out with everybody. Maisy did well and tried her hardest.
Since this show is part of a series, contestants will be awarded ribbons for the first and second shows, and high points for all the shows combined. The high-point winner will be awarded a belt buckle at the end. The first show was held on Saturday, March 22, and the next show will be on Saturday, November 22.
The sponsors included The Livery, Elston Hay & Grain, Matt Parker Hay Co., Diamond D, Olde Mission Chiropractic, Salon Ambition, Lope Equine, Inc., and Sea Breeze Glass. Tellez Catering's food truck supplied tacos, burritos, seafood, chips, and drinks for attendees.
With more events on the horizon, from cowboy challenges to clinics, the IEC remains a vital part of life in the SDCE and is riding high into the future.
Photos by Tiffany Pressler.
