By Colleen MacFarlane
Spruce Ridge Equicentre
COBDEN — Whitewater Region Mayor Hal Johnson recently declared at a council meeting that Saturday, June 6 was Day of the Horse.
Spruce Ridge Equicentre was proud to host an equestrian celebration on that day.
All riders from the stable, regardless of age and skill level, were invited to perform in the event.
To keep things a bit more interesting, Crickets Canine Country Club was invited to give agility dog demonstrations, and they kicked off about 9:30 a.m.
The day began with a Parade of Breeds. The horses, which included a variety of breeds, were paraded around the arena so they could get used to the unusual crowds of people. The commentary included history of the breeds and most notable characteristics of temperament and size. The various colours of the horses were also identified.
The riding demonstrations ranged from very beginners with riders as young as 5 years old to more advanced riders with the eldest participant of almost 57 years of age. Taking part were riders from the therapeutic riding program with discussions of what the riding program has meant for that participant. Riding truly is a sport for everyone.
During the day, there were draws and the lucky winners had a chance to meet and groom the mini ponies.
Did you know that horses could line dance? Three horses, two mini ponies and eight people kicked up their hoofs/feet to the country music.
The afternoon fun kicked off with the agility dog demonstration and then the “Hoof and Woof”. Dogs/handlers and horses/riders were teamed up to go through an obstacle course (for the dogs) and a jumping course (for the horses) to see who had the fastest time. With nothing but the time on the clock in sight for the riders, I have never seen the kids ride better. Of course, sometimes neither the horses or dogs performed as planned — and that just increased the enjoyment.
The Renfrew County SPCA hosted the BBQ as a fundraising activity and everyone brought their appetites! The food sold out.
Thanks to the sponsors, Spruce Ridge Equicentre, Huckabones Farm Equipment, A.R.A Creations, Exit Realty and The Pony Place for their support during the day.
Stay tuned for the first Saturday in June 2016, and Spruce Ridge will be hosting Horse Day all over again.
