Bashaw’s Multi 4-H Club hosted a fun horse event with riders coming from all around central Alberta.
Held Sept. 10 at the Bashaw Agricultural Grounds, the show is a special fundraiser for the club but also gives riders a chance to hone their equitation skills and receive tips from a judge.
Rimbey area judge Teri Larsgard has been in the business for about 23 years. She’s been to the Bashaw event for quite a few years now and enjoys the showing and learning that comes with it.
“I teach a lot of these kids and I help the 4-H program and give clinics,” she explained of some of her roles.
For Bashaw’s event she wants to see how handlers and riders understand how to show their horses. “After that I’m looking for someone that works well with their horse.”
The two, rider and horse, have a partnership in equitation and a judge wants to see a balance.
“This is the opportunity for them to come and show what they’ve done and show their work off,” said Larsgard.
She suggests that while the work isn’t easy the rewards come with seeing improvements in riding skills.
Ring person Jessica Chitwood explained she was proud of the riders. She told them at the end of the season last year that great sportsmanship and horsemanship is also something to be proud of.
“This is their opportunity to ask, ‘Am I on par with my peers? Am I learning anything?’” said Chitwood.
“It’s their chance to really grow as people.”
Larsgard added that seeing the large number of riders attend shows that the sport is strong.
Along with riders from Bashaw included riders from areas including Ponoka, Eckville, Forestburg, Lousana, Rimbey, Daysland and Rumsey.
