Member of the Week: Tina Caldwell

Introducing this week's Member of the Week; Tina Caldwell of Ohio!  "Tina is the best competitor you will ever want to ride with. She roots for all her other ridding buddies, she never complains about scores or things that happen on the trail, she is always helpful, and very humble. When you watch Tina and SamaBam you see a true team. They are the epitome of a team. They don't pick at each other, and forgive each other’s mistakes. Tina is an ACTHA rider that everyone should emulate. Gracious, kind, and humble. Tina has also been a host to ACTHA rides and does a fantastic job hosting. I'm proud to call her my friend. I am nominating her because I know she would never nominate herself."

Tina and SamaBam complete the 2012/2013 Season with a fantastic ranking, being first in Pleasure for the state of Ohio!  Congratulations to this fine team!

Congratulations to Tina and Samabam for being this week's Member of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF. Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to laurie@actha.us

Lisa and Bucyrus: Overcoming Life Obstacles to Reach the Trail

By Lisa Wolters

I started ACTHA in September 2011. The first ride, my horse didn't side pass or yield to leg pressure very well, as I'd not ridden him much at all after buying him in December 2010. I was embarrassed after that ride, because I knew we had potential and I knew how to get better. So, ACTHA gave me the motivation to begin riding again and to become a student of the horse. At the first trail ride, we had finished at the bottom of the placing. The next ride was two weeks away, and I trained in earnest. We received seventh out of 27 riders, which was very exciting to me. I was already hooked on ACTHA. My Percheron horse, Bucyrus, and I attended what rides we could around family obligations, since I am a wife and mother of an 11 and 13 year old. My family is very supportive and have ridden on CTCs occasionally. We live on a northwestern Kansas farm, which can get pretty lonely. ACTHA rides help fill that void for me since I love the camaraderie with other riders and meeting new friends. I also love visiting new places en route to a ride. We are located near Nebraska and Colorado, so we've competed in these states, along with Arkansas and Missouri.

The 2012-2013 ACTHA season was almost over for my horse and I before it started. We had progressively improved the prior season and I decided, after discussing it with my family, to aim for high point in the Kansas pleasure division. Memorial Day weekend, right before the season was to start, I tore my ACL and a bit of meniscus playing volleyball. As a friend helped me off the floor of the gym, she encouraged me to go do what I was really good at, riding, and go heal, instead of attempting more volleyball.

Lisa's Percheron, Bucyrus

I took her advice to heart, and rode in my first ACTHA ride of the season two weeks following, wearing my mom's knee brace. I found at the end of the ride I was tied for first and had to do a ride-off. My horse did what I asked, but my bad knee was weak and he ducked to the weak side, which cost us the win. I felt our performance was pretty good for someone with my injury. I had surgery to repair my ACL with a hamstring graft on July 3rd, 2012. Two days later, we took delivery of a 19 hh Belgian draft horse who empathized so much with my crippled plight, he injured himself the next day, requiring stitches and a cast. During the course of the surgery, my husband, who was assisting, herniated his back. He was so supportive of my goal, we were able to schedule his back surgery around my ACTHA ride schedule. Fortunately, throughout this year, my horse has been healthy and sound. I have learned that once I began to trust my horse, he trusted me and would do anything for me. I find it deplorable that people feel the need to drug their horses to compete, when all that is needed is the time and patience to earn their trust.


From left to right: Lisa, husband Josh, son Ryan, mother
Jan and daughter Kaitlyn
Photo by Patti Baker

I have seen some beautiful scenery during our ACTHA rides, and I hope to share some of those experiences with my family. With my background showing horses as a teen, I've learned life is too short to spend that much money and be miserable. I enjoy a bit of competition, but the true winners are the ones who enjoy the journey of true horsemanship, not just cruising along top speed on the road to another win. Most rides are so enjoyable because all the folks involved are so friendly, I feel.

I was inspired by another rider in Nebraska who was legally blind and beat us for a win. What a lady! Her beautiful horse had been with her many years and was her eyes. What trust! Another lovely lady inspired me by her grace in the face of rude behavior. She just ignored the behavior and persevered. What an example! What I have learned that has been reinforced is that you can't control the action of others, the weather, or how your horse responds to any of these directly, but you can control how you respond.

I wouldn't change anything about this season, because I feel what has happened is what is meant to be and I am meant to use it all to learn from and use it to get better as a person and a rider. My favorite rides are the ones that are at least two-day as you get more fun for your travel dollars and get to relax more since you are there longer. At times, Bucyrus and I have brought friends and family along for the ride to CTCs, but most of the thousands of miles we've covered this year in the trailer, it has been just the two of us. The partnership my horse and I have is something I cherish so much there are no words to convey it, but I know some of you reading this will understand, because you feel that way too. It is a fellowship of the horse that most of us ACTHA riders really enjoy. I look forward to meeting more folks on the trail, and as a ride host eventually. With the obstacles we have had to overcome as a team, I am so proud of what we've accomplished this season. Every time I tack up for a ride, I look to improve upon the last ride. Most importantly, I give thanks for the health and ability to ride, and for my "little" pony with a huge heart.

Lisa Wolters and Bucyrus finish the 2012/13 Season ranking 8th in the Nation, 2nd in Kansas and 3rd in Arkansas.  Congratulations to this amazing team for an awesome season!

Judy and Picasso; an Incredible Year!

Judy and Picasso, ACTHA National Champions - Open Division
1st in Arkansas; 2nd in Texas

"What an incredible ride this year has been!  What started out as hauling around Texas and competing with our friends turned into travelling across state lines, meeting new friends, having new experiences, and building a lifetime of great memories! 

When Kathie Norman (National Champion - Pleasure Division)  asked me to haul with her to other states, it was like a dream come true.  And what I didn't know then, but I know now... it's ALWAYS an adventure with Kathie!  We were able to do some sightseeing, enjoy local food, visit many Amish bakeries along the way, as well as experience some of the most challenging riding terrain that I have ever encountered.

Judy Limsky and Kathie Norman

Whether it was riding in Texas at over 100 degrees or waking up in Missouri to a bone-chilling 24 degrees, Picasso was with me all the way, no hesitations, no complaints.  Never did I think this would be one of the most amazing journeys of my life.  And never did I think I would learn so much about myself, from my horse.  Building a bond with your horse is the greatest, most rewarding thing that a rider can do.  Once you have that trust between horse and rider, magic happens. 

Most recently, ACTHA has a new annual sportsmanship award and are dedicating it to my horse, Picasso, by naming it 'The Picasso Award'.  Now THAT is one of the most heartwarming memories that a horse owner could ever have!  And, I have to say, the following comments from ACTHA have touched me deeply.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart," writes Judy Limsky.


Judy, left, and husband Mark

"A hearty, warm felt congratulations to this dynamic riding team, Judy Limsky and Picasso from Texas upon achieving  National Championship - Open Division.   This season has been one of many achievements for Judy and Picasso.  Their determination and hard work have paid off in many ways, the most significant being that of true partnership which is evident after spending just a few moments watching the pair.  Picasso is full of heart, working hard to please and come through for Judy, and her love and respect for her equine partner remains evident every moment.  Judy is a focused rider, meticulous about every detail.  Yet, she'll be the first to offer a smile and a hug whenever you meet her, and is a joy to ride with or share a log by a campfire.  Judy's attention to specifics has been appreciated by inexperienced Ride Hosts as she is never afraid to speak up when needed, always ready to encourage or offer guidance.  She has proven a great mentor by example for new riders, as well as an inspiration to all who meet her.  Well done, Judy and Picasso, and well deserved." 

"What I find remarkable," states Carrie Scrima, an ACTHA Founder, "is no matter where we show up on ACTHA's circuits everyone has only great praise for Judy and Picasso. After a lifetime of competing I find this wonderfully refreshing and a good example of the sportsmanship of the ACTHA casual competitor."

Judy and Picasso clearing a jump in Arkansas

As a result, ACTHA has instituted a new award, dedicated to Judy's horse; The annual Picasso, to continue to honor Picasso for decades of ACTHA rides to come. Any member or host may be nominated with the winner receiving a complimentary lifetime membership valued at a little under $1,000. ACTHA hopes that this tribute will emphasize how much value is placed on being a good sport in their casual competitions. "If the public were open for nominations I'd nominate Mark Limsky, who trailered, volunteered and cheered EVERYBODY on at most every event Judy competed in!" chuckled Robin Tilgham director of National Sales.  This award goes to one who is nominated by any ACTHA member or ACTHA judge for displaying dedicated sportsmanship during the ride season. Nominations are sent to a special email address, Picasso@actha.us.

Ask the Vet: Fescue Toxicity

Q:  Other than not shedding out, what else could you expect to see in fescue toxicity in a gelding? - Jean Thompson

Jean,
What a fantastic question. Fescue is a type of grass that is common throughout large portions of the United States, especially in the south. Fescue grass can commonly be infected with a type of fungus called an endophyte which is responsible for its toxic effects.  The prevalence of Fescue infected with endophyte varies depending on where you live in the country. The toxic effects of the Fescue endophyte also vary from one species to another.  Cattle and sheep tend to have the most severe problems from Fescue including decreased weight gain, increased body temperature, poor hair coats and necrosis (tissue death) of their feet, tail and ears. Thankfully these symptoms are not reported in horses.  The major problem that is seen with Fescue grass in horses is in brood mares.  Fescue can affect hormones in mares during late gestation causing increase in gestation length, difficult births, and decreased milk production.  It is also thought that foals and yearling eating endophyte infected Fescue may gain weight slower than they would otherwise. For an adult male horse Fescue grass is safe for consumption.  If you have broodmares on your farm you can send samples of grass for laboratory analysis to determine if it is infected with endophyte.  If you find that your grass is infected with endophyte it is recommended to keep pregnant mares from grazing on it during the last trimester (90 days) of their pregnancy. 

If you have a horse that is not shedding out his winter coat, the most common cause is Equine Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID or sometimes called equine Cushing’s Disease.) In horses with PPID, the middle lobe of the pituitary gland (pars intermedia) becomes enlarged over time and results in over production of hormones.  PPID is most common in horses over fifteen years old but can sometimes be seen in slightly younger horses. Other symptoms that have can be associated with PPID include excessive drinking and urination (polyuria/polydipsia), laminitis, lethargy, excessive sweating, muscle mass loss and repeated infections such as sole abscesses.  While there is no cure for PPID the drug Pergolide (Prascend) can significantly help with symptoms. If you feel that your horse may have PPID, discuss it with your veterinarian. 

Dr. Wilson is a native of Dripping Springs, Texas. She attended Texas A&M for her undergraduate studies in Biomedical Science and obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in the Spring of 2010. She has particular interests in lameness, internal medicine and surgery. Dr. Wilson joined Austin Equine as our first veterinary intern. She is member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Wilson is thrilled to be living in the Austin area. Away from work, she is an avid rider and owns Malcolm, a twenty-one year old Thoroughbred.http://www.austinequine.com/

If you have a question you would like to ASK A VET, please email laurie@actha.us with the subject: 'ask a vet'

Member of the Week: Kathie Norman

Early this season Kathie set a goal for herself and her horse, Dulce.  She set her sights high and decided to go for the ACTHA Pleasure National High Point title.  In order to accomplish this goal, Kathie knew that she would need to work hard to get herself and her horse ready for the challenge.  She dedicated many hours to training and traveled many miles throughout several states to achieve her goal.  Kathie finished this season First in Texas and First in the Nation in High Points in the Pleasure Division.

Be proud, ACTHA, to have this horsewoman as one of your members.  She represents ACTHA well.  She is a dedicated member and a strong horsewoman.

"Kathie has put her heart and soul into ACTHA.  She loves the friendly competition and she loves the campground comradery.  Once you meet Kathie, you know you've met a friend", says Judy Limsky.  Kathie and Judy traveled together this season attending ACTHA rides and enjoying
adventures along the way.

Comments from another fellow rider, "Kathie and Dulce are both over achievers, but in a very earthy, grounded sort of way.  Kathie takes each task to heart, and gives it her total, undivided attention and focus.  She brings out the earnest sense of achievement related to each obstacle, and this encourages a healthy environment of competition.  She sets a bar of combined humility and drive, and anyone riding with Kathie will experience a level of seriousness and passion for the sport of trail riding which can invariably influence your own ride in a very positive way.  I feel honored to have had the pleasure of riding with Kathie on numerous occasions and look forward to many more in the future.  Kathie and Dulce are at the head of the class, for well deserved reasons."

Congratulations to Kathie Norman of Texas for being this week's Member of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF. Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to laurie@actha.us

Outstanding Achievements: Erika Tanney

When asked to write about my experiences this past year riding/competing in ACTHA, so many fun, memorable times come to mind. First I have to thank my husband for his patience, money and support he has given me in order to achieve winning Kansas Open division 2 years in a row, and this year being in the top 10 national rankings.   I would also like to give a BIG thank you to all the armed forces, as all of us could not be doing what we love to do without them, SALUTE!
 

In no way could I have accomplished so much this season without the loving nature and encouragement of my wonderful fellow competitors. It's just so fun to be on that trail discussing the logistics of how each of us will try to maneuver that obstacle. With each steed having some accomplishments made at each one.

Although I would have loved to have traveled more to compete in so many more of the ACTHA rides, I cherish each and every one of the rides that Lil Miss Feeona & I have been blessed to compete in.

To wrap up this season, probably the best advice I could give to others is don't get caught up on the word "competitive", life is about making mistakes & learning to better the situation the next time. Each breath we take is a challenge - embrace it !!

Being on a safe animal that trusts you means the world to me! Go Mules!!

Erika Tanney & Lill Miss Feeona

HAPPY TRAILS !!!

 

Erika and Feeona finish this season ranking 1st in the state of Kansas and 8th in the nation.  Congratulations to this great team for an awesome season!

Members of the Week: Lewis and Donna Baber

"I would like to nominate Lewis and Donna Baber of Florida to be accepted as ACTHA Members of the Week.  Lewis and Donna ride together as a couple, when you meet them at a ride it is like meeting family.  They are always encouraging, love to meet new people, help by offering advise and mentoring new riders, and willing to take the lead.  Any ride where the Baber's are present is affected by their warm hospitality while at camp or on the trail.  They are welcoming, social, kind and always supportive.

Lewis is notorious for taking new members under his wing and helping them attain great successes.  He adds to the fun by bringing healthy, friendly competition to those he mentors once they have blossomed into worthy rivals on the course.  His spirit of good sportsmanship adds positively to the ride atmosphere, it is enjoyed and respected by those competing with him.  He keeps you on your toes and encourages you to best yourself.  It is an honor to ride with both Lewis and Donna. 

Tragically, Donna was recently in an accident where she was hit by a car while she was walking through a cross walk.  She suffered numerous bones being broken and was hospitalized for several weeks.  She is now working toward finally being able to ride again this September.  Her fellow riders are looking forward to seeing her on the trail again this fall and all have dearly missed her presence during her recovery."

A second recommendation for Donna and Lewis states, "I think Donna and Lewis should be members of the week because they are two of the sweetest, kindest people that I know.  Lewis and Donna are such an inspiration to others, always striving to do better at each obstacle, always lending a much needed smile.  Great sportsmanship sure sums up Lewis and Donna!"

Congratulations to the Babers for being this week's Members of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF. Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to laurie@actha.us

Announcing the ACTHA Gaited Medal Award

The American Competitive Trail Horse Association, ACTHA, has created a new medal award; The Gaited Medal Award, dedicated to our gaited horse friends. As we all know, gaited is a trait not a breed. Like the rescue horse or any unique designation, we want to give acknowledgement to the fact that trail riding is for us all.

With the historical abuses gaited horses have had to endure in some circles, it's grand to let the world know there are other wonderful ways to show the abilities of the wonderful gaited horses of America and Canada. Hundreds of gaited horses compete in ACTHA events from coast to coast every week end of the year. " It's about time we honor them for the athletes they are!" cites Tom Scrima, General Manager of ACTHA.

Every gaited horse registered with ACTHA, upon achieveing 100 lifetime points, will receive a complimentary gaited saddle from ACTHA's famous foundation sponsor, TUCKER SADDLES!

When choosing a saddle, saddle fit is the greatest priority. Tucker offers several tree fits for your trotting or gaited horse. Classic Tucker or GEN II (R) are great options for your trotting or gaited horse. www.tuckersaddles.com

“America’s Favorite Trail Horse” Winner, Lindsay’s Faith, to be introduced as a Breyer® Traditional Portrait Model

Pequannock, NJ (May 31, 2013) – Breyer is pleased to announce that the inaugural “America’s Favorite Trail Horse” winner, Lindsay’s Faith, is joining the family of Breyer Traditional portrait models. This talented mustang mare’s roots trace back to the wilds of White Mountain, Wyoming, where she was gathered by the Bureau of Land Management for adoption. She was passed over by potential adopters until 2010, her 6-year-old year, when her luck changed. It was then that she was selected to participate in the Mustang Heritage Foundation's first Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover, an event specifically designed to help older mustangs find forever homes. Upon hearing of this exciting new competition, trainer Mary Miller-Jordan decided to adopt the unique silver-maned mare, and so began her partnership with Lindsay’s Faith.

The Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover allowed trainers 100 days to gentle and train their mustang before the competition. This was Miller-Jordan’s first try at a mustang makeover competition, and Lindsay’s Faith was her first mustang! Together, they made it all the way to the finals.

A few months later, Miller-Jordan and Lindsay’s Faith were selected to compete in the American Competitive Trail Horse Association’s (ACTHA) televised competition, “America’s Favorite Trail Horse,” which aired on HRTV. This competition tests the versatility and obedience of the horse, asking them to maneuver through tricky trail obstacles in front of the judge. Much like “American Idol,” the crowds watching at home voted on their favorite horse and rider combination to advance them to the next round. In the end, Lindsay’s Faith was the crowd favorite and was named “America’s Favorite Trail Horse.”

The Traditional portrait model of Lindsay’s Faith will be available at retailers in mid-July, as well as at BreyerFest 2013 “Denim and Diamonds.” BreyerFest, Breyer’s annual three-day model horse festival and horse fair, will be held from July 19-21 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. Both Lindsay’s Faith and Mary Miller-Jordan will be at on hand to greet fans and sign autographs! Also coming to BreyerFest with Miller-Jordan is Flying Colors, her newest gentled mustang that she will be competing with in the Mustang Heritage Foundation’s “Mustang Million” this September.
About Breyer Animal Creations®

Breyer Animal Creations is a division of Reeves International (www.reevesintl.com), a family-owned, NJ-based toy manufacturer and distributor. The iconic Breyer brand was founded in 1950, and is the undisputed leader in creating the world’s most authentic and realistic model horses for play and collecting. Visit us at www.breyerhorses.com or call 800-413-3348 to learn more about the model horse hobby and Breyer Animal Creations.

CONTACT: Reeves International (Breyer Animal Creations)
Jessica Bourgeois: 973-694-5006 x123, jbourgeois@reevesintl.com

Member of the Week: Kay Carmody

"I would like to nominate Kay Carmody for ACTHA's Member of the Week.  I have had the privilege of riding with Kay on numerous occasions.  Kay is a woman who truly loves horses, and this is a love she shares with as many people as she can.  Kay opens her barn to many equine activities, including hosting ACTHA rides in the state of Arkansas.  She not only believes in the value of continuing horsemanship education, but she encourages others and spends a great deal of herself to offer a variety of equestrian venues to the public.   As a grandmother, she has mentored and encouraged a fine young granddaughter who, with Kay's support and encouragement, can ride like the wind, and shares her grandmother's passion for the horse.  Kay's husband, Jack, is devoted to her, shares many trails with his wife and granddaughter, or supports them with hauling them where ever their hearts lead.  A beautiful family who are always a pleasure to be around, whether on the trail, in an arena, or sitting around a campfire.

Kay has a pure and giving heart, is full of life's wisdoms, and is a woman who boldly stands up for what is right.  She is deeply respected by all who know her, and is looked up to as a source of friendship, leadership, support, and plain outright fun.  If Kay Carmody happens to be sharing your trail or campfire, you may consider yourself in the best of company.  I'm proud and blessed to know Kay, and whole heartily recommend her to be recognized and applauded for her admirable qualities, good sportsmanship, and for all she pays forward to the equine community."

Congratulations to Kay for being this week's Member of the Week! Many thanks to Molly's Custom Silver for sponsoring this weekly event. Molly's Custom Silver is ACTHA's official silversmith! www.mollyscustomsilver.com

ACTHA Member of the Week nominations remain anonymous. If you would like to nominate an ACTHA member, Ride Host, judge or volunteer, you may do so by clicking here: http://a.pgtb.me/TH6twF. Or, you may send your nomination along with one or two good photos of large size to laurie@actha.us

Family photo by Patti Thomas Baker, featuring left to right; granddaughter Gwen Taylor, husband Jack and Kay Carmody, Arkansas.

A Year on the Road with ACTHA

We did it!!! THANKS to encouragement from Watt and Mark, and our family and friends, we've hauled many miles and made some pretty awesome memories.

Remember...
...the herd of over thirty buffalo roaming in MO and one came near us close enough to touch - so I did
...two separate trailer tire blowouts on the same eerie stretch of road near McAlester
...putting bare feet in the icy cold Buffalo River
...sliding down the mountain on horseback after a rainy night at the Buffalo River Resort
...turning our horses out together without any problems
...watching Picasso stand over Dulce as she slept
...heading to a weekend ride in MO and not returning home for almost three weeks and only then because the ride in TN was rescheduled
...having a weekend ride in MO and staying additional days so we could ride across the rushing river at Flying R Ranch when it calmed down a bit
...visiting the historic Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs and being mistaken for street walkers waiting for the trolley on a day that it didn't run - who knew?!
...nights of popcorn and movie watching in the trailer
...our rainy layover in MO and our 'shocking' experience whenever we touched the outside of the trailer
...roasting marshmallows around an AR campfire with friends and a singing guitar, banjo and ukulele player
...having a steak cookout in AR with some of the best people in the world
...after completing a TX ride, seeing National banners displayed with our pictures on them, and celebrating with cake, presents and friends.
Most of all remember being so proud of our horses that we could just burst with pride. Oh my, I think it's time for another ROAD TRIP !!!

Kathie Norman and Judy Limsky, pictured above, from Texas, currently ranking #1 in the Nation in Pleasure (Kathie) and Open (Judy).  Congratulations ladies on a wonderful year!

Suzie Baker and Cowboy; Achievements on the ACTHA Trail

By Suzie Baker

This was my first year to compete in the open division of ACTHA on my horse Cinnadocs Cowboy. I am proud to say that we came in 3rd place in Texas and tied for 6th place in the nation. Texas has alot of really great riders and I must say that I was pretty nervous about moving up into the open division to compete against the very people that I aspired to be like. I am proud of the progress that Cowboy and I have made along the way this year. We have mastered new skills and have achieved both our silver and gold medals this season.

Cowboy has grown up in ACTHA. Our first CTC was in Nov. 2010, when he was a very green 2 1/2 year old! In the 2011 -2012 ACTHA season, we tied for both 3rd place in Texas and 6th place in the nation in the pleasure division. Learning together, working as a team, Cowboy, now 5 yrs. old, is turning into a wonderful, reliable trail horse. Going to many ACTHA rides all over Texas, he has been exposed to so many obstacles both natural and man made. He has been ridden in the varied terrain that only Texas can offer.

This year has been a great year for us, but it would not have been nearly as much fun without all the wonderful friends that I have meet along the trail. ACTHA riders in Texas are the BEST!! They are so friendly, encouraging and just fun to be around! I always look forward to seeing my riding buddies at each CTC.

My best friend, Debbie Ayres (the current Texas Champion), has been there with me from our very first ACTHA ride. We were looking for something fun to do with our horses, when we discovered ACTHA. We had no aspirations, we have no background in showing and have trained our horses on our own. I must say we have come a long way from our first ride and have a lot of really great memories to treasure for years to come. I think it is great to see our horses, who are both out of the same stallion ( Doc O'Mino), ranked so high in ACTHA. They are different is many ways, but both of them have a willingness to please, quiet dispositions and hearts made of gold! They are perfectly suited for each of us.

Of course none of the achievements that I have made would have been possible without the love, support and understanding of my husband, Brad. He holds down the fort while I am away having fun with my horse and friends. He is not a "horse" person, but he does his best to be patient and understanding of the time spent away from each other and all the extra expenses that come with competing in ACTHA. He is learning the importance of must have's like matching shirts, blankets etc...!!!

I love competitive trail riding because it makes you ride your horse - rain or shine, hot or cold. It has allowed me to ride in new places, make new friends and has given purpose to my riding. I would not have changed anything about this year. Anyone that is looking to spend time with their horse in beautiful surroundings, learn new skills and make new friends, look no futher - ACTHA has it all!! The ribbons and prizes are great, but the friends and memories you make are really the best part. If you are worried about the competing in ACTHA, don't be!! Just relax and remember to enjoy the ride!