3 minute read
From the Editor
The long days and slower pace of summer are upon us – a time for vacations, camps, maybe even horse show holidays. We enjoyed putting together this issue, and we hope you will love reading it. Here are a few of the stories you will find inside:
Mountain destinations such as Tryon, North Carolina appeal to riders who want to escape the sauna of the South. Our feature article explores the Tryon International Equestrian Center and Resort, which has fueled an explosion of equestrian activity in North Carolina. This top caliber facility is packing the house with a wide variety of summer shows, including the Saturday Night Lights Grand Prix series.
Summer camps give kids a chance to pass some of their precious summer vacation with horses. Day camps have a variety of benefits beyond simply helping kids learn to ride, and the memories made at camp last forever. Find our story on page 18.
The young rider featured in this issue is Logan Starnes, who has been winning at the All American Quarter Horse Congress since his legs barely reached the bottom of the saddle pad, and he also has some interesting hobbies beyond riding. (Hint: you wouldn’t want to get in a fight with him.)
Our practical advice this issue addresses the timely topic of riding in hot weather. Need some tips to “Beat the Heat”? Read our story on page 28.
Equestrians of the Carolinas introduces readers to Joan and Gil Hilsman. The Hilsmans have lived and worked all over the world but now they reside a few miles from the Carolina Horse Park in Raeford, North Carolina. They bring their abundant skills and enthusiasm to help the park however they are needed. Hunter jumper riders will probably feel some familiarity with the artist Georgianna Conger’s work, since they may recognize her clean lines and soft colors from the covers of the annual prize lists of the Aiken Spring Classic horse show. Meet Georgianna (who goes by “Girl”) in our artist feature – she is also a dedicated volunteer at the Aiken County Animal Shelter and has saved hundreds of dogs and puppies.
Our photographic collage “Out and About” showcases equestrians from a variety of disciplines and venues across the Carolinas. Maybe you’ll see yourself! As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us through our website at TheCarolinasEquestrian.com or on Facebook or Instagram and tell us about people we need to talk to, events we need to cover, or places we need to go see.
