Flatlanders Dressage & Combined Training Association, Inc.
Geauga Horse & Pony Association
Great Lakes Appaloosa Horse Club
Hoosier Quarter Pony Association
Knox County Horse Park
Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros
Massillon Saddle Club
Miami Valley Horse Show Association
Michigan Trail Riders Association, Inc.
Mid-Eastern Farriers Association
Mid Ohio Dressage Association
Mid-Ohio Marauders
National Pole Bending Association
Northern Ohio Dressage Association
Northern Kentucky Horse Network
Northern Ohio Miniature Horse Club
Northern Ohio Outlaws
Ohio Appaloosa Association
O.H.I.O. EXCA
Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Assoc.
Ohio Haflinger Association
Ohio High School Rodeo Association
Ohio Horseman’s Council
Ohio Gaited Horse Trailriders
Ohio Morgan Horse Association
Ohio Paint Horse Club
Ohio Quarter Horse Association
Ohio Ranch Horse Association
Ohio State Buckskin Association
Ohio Western Horse Association, Inc.
Ottawa County Horse Foundation
Ohio Valley Team Penning Association
Pinto Horse Association of Ohio
Premier Mount N Trail
Pure Gold Stables
Tri-County Trail Association
Tri-State Rodeo Association
Wayne County Saddle Club
Western Reserve Carriage Association
The Corral Staff
Editor Bobbie Coalter
Advertising Sales & General Manager Joe Coalter email joe@thehorsemenscorral.com
THE HORSEMEN’S CORRAL is published monthly by Horsemen’s Corral, 8283 Richman Road, Lodi, Ohio 44254. (ISSN 0164-6591). Published as Periodicals at the Lodi Post Office USPS 889-180 with additional entry points of Cleveland, OH 44101 and New Philadelphia, OH 44663. Periodicals postage paid at Lodi, Ohio, and additional entry offices. Subscriptions may only be purchased through Horsemen’s Corral member clubs. Single copies, $3.00 at select distributors. For subscriptions, address changes, and adjustments, write to: Horsemen’s Corral, P.O. Box 32, Lodi, Ohio 44254. Manuscripts, drawings, and other material submitted must be accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope.
POSTMASTER: All subscription addresses are properly screened through CASS per USPS requirements. The Horsemen’s Corral will not accept returns of magazines deemed undeliverable for any reason. Please discard copy of any issue deemed as undeliverable.
The Horsemen’s Corral cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.
MAILING ADDRESS & PHONE:
P.O. Box 32, Lodi, Ohio 44254
OFFICE: 330/635-4145
Ride In Sync
Training Tip Part 1 — The First Rides
by Terry Myers
Over the years that I have been writing articles for the Horsemen’s Corral I’ve talked a lot about rider body position and various other topics. I would like to talk in this article and those in the coming months about my training techniques and philosophies, which I’ve developed over the 45-plus years I’ve been a trainer. This article focuses on the starting point for the first ride.
Once you have done your ground work (see previous articles on ground work techniques!) and have a horse that gives to pressure, you have control of hips and shoulders from the ground, you have desensitized them and have them accepting the saddle; it’s time to think about climbing aboard for the first ride. I always start horses in a good snaffle bit or side pull. When I first step into the stirrup, I will step up several times on each side, lean carefully across the saddle (do not lay across
as this puts you in a dangerous position) and I do lots of pats on the neck and rump. When I
step into the stirrup, I keep rein pressure on the side I am stepping on, so the head is bent toward my leg (see picture). If the horse tries to throw their head up and take their head away, I step down because I’ve lost control. Get their face curved back toward your leg and try again. If your horse is extremely resistance to the rein pressure, you need to do more ground work. If the horse walks around me while I step up in the stirrup, while their head is bent toward my leg, I stay in the stirrup until they stop. You don’t want the horse to think they can walk away from you when you are getting on.
When I can step up into the stirrup and climb on the horse, with the horse being accepting and relaxed, I swing my leg smoothly over the horse and gently sit down into the saddle. Do not drag any part of your leg or foot across the horse’s hip. While sitting in the saddle, I rub and pet the horse all over their neck and rump. I may do this several times on each side before I even ask the horse to move. At this point I am ready to ask the horse to walk off. But before I go any further, we need to talk about rider body position. I ride colts sitting very relaxed and deep in the saddle (sitting on my pockets) with my arms forward. This is where the saying ‘long arms short reins’ is really important. You want to
able to take a hold of the horse easily if you need to! For those first steps under saddle, I want the horse to walk off and not try to jump forward. I first ask a horse to move by opening the left rein and gently bumping with my left leg. This causes his hip to move to the right and by opening the left rein the colt will walk to the left. In this way I keep control without pulling as well as control the forward motion and momentum by controlling the hip. For those first few rides I do not let the colt have his neck and face straight ahead. I keep them moving in circles, keeping a bend in their body. With this method, if the colt feels like they are getting ready to come unglued, you already have control of their face.
To have this much face control, you can’t keep pulling on the colt’s mouth. You need to give and take with the reins, gently taking their face, then letting go, again and again. Forward motion is very important in these first rides, so you don’t want to be constantly shutting the colt down by pulling. There is an ocean on each side of this country, so they can only run so far! (Better yet, have your first rides on a smaller confined area.)
Your first rides should only be 10-20 minutes long. I do try to walk and trot on these first rides. Most colts I will also canter, but not all of them will be ready for that. These short rides keep the horse interested in what you are doing without them getting too tired or stressed. I may ride a young horse several times a week in this manner. I have started riding young horses that I decided were not strong enough to proceed any further. With these colts, I stop riding and give them more time to develop strength to be able to carry a rider of any size. With these horses, wait several months and try again. Listen to your horse, they will tell you when they are ready.
The most important thing with first rides is giving the horse a way out from pressure, using big very obvious cues. Keep your hands very forward and soft, sit deep in the saddle to reduce the risk of becoming a ‘yard dart’ and use a lot of quiet praise.
PRESIDENT, Lauren Smith
Open House, Poker Run, Halloween Show
VICE PRESIDENTS, Travis Ross and Claude Robinson
TREASURER, Pam Niner
SECRETARY, Madisyn Weekley
PHONE, 740/398-5366 (call or text)
WEBSITE, knoxcountyhorsepark.mypixieset.com
by Anna Chadwick
The monthly meeting is held the second Monday of the month at the Horse Park Shelter during summer.
SUMMER SCHEDULE
We have added items to the schedule. All the fun shows start at 9:30 a.m; with showmanship classes first and contesting to start at 1 p.m.
AUGUST 9: Open House, 1-4
50 miles of Trails in Pike State Forest Stalls or Tie Lines • Water and Electric
Guided Ride with Marie on Saturdays Call
p.m. There will be a potluck at 6 p.m. at the Shelter House and Full Moon night trail ride starting at 9 p.m.
AUGUST 16: High Point Show
SEPTEMBER 6: Campout at the campground
SEPTEMBER 20: High Point Show
OCTOBER 11: Poker Run supporting breast cancer awareness. Registration starts 10 a.m with last horse out by 11.30 a.m. All horses back by 1:30 p.m. Following the Poker Run there will be several fun show classes.
OCTOBER 18: Last point show of the season
Ride In Sync
Continued from page 6
Let me respectfully say that it is best to have a professional put the first rides on a horse for the obvious reasons of safety as well as the importance of a good foundation of training for the horse. I get many young horses sent to me for training that have issues that were created by people. Remember, horses don’t make mistakes, people do!
NOVEMBER 1: Halloween Show
Mark your calendars, and come join us for some fun. The cookshack will be open! If you would like to host a show, we have available weekends open for people to rent the arena. We would like to thank the following sponsors for the 2025 fun show season: Danville Harness and Shoe, Two Acre Farm and Feed Supply, Strong Land Maintenance, Cosby Heating and Cooling, Travis and Sue Ross, Scarlet Acres, Red Maple Farm Healthy Center Massage, Therapy and Acupuncture.
Terry Myers is a national clinician and champion horse trainer with a depth of knowledge developed from over 50 years in the horse industry. Myers has been a popular clinician at multiple expos in the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Myers’ Ride-InSync methods as well as clinic and training services available, visit www.tmtrainingcenter.com or on Facebook.
Geauga Horse and Pony Association
GHPA is Getting Ready for The Great Geauga County Fair
PRESIDENT, Lisa Formica
1st VICE PRESIDENT, Rachel Formica
2nd VICE PRESIDENT, Dustin Sutter
TREASURER, Shauna Gingrich
SECRETARY, Kelli Burns
WEBSITE, www.ghpa.us
by Jaimie and Joselyn Olson
We want to thank each and every one of you who have supported us throughout the show season. We are down to the final two shows this month. Friday Night Lights, August 1, and our Open Horse Show, August 10. You can find entry information for our remaining shows at horseshowing.com. We encourage pre-entry, but you will still be able to sign up the day of the show (no cash). All of our shows are held at the Geauga County Fairgrounds, 4373 N. Cheshire Street, Burton, Ohio.
As we wrap up the 2025 show season, we will begin taking suggestions and planning for the 2026 season. If you are
interested in joining a committee or becoming a member of the board, please join us at our monthly meetings on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Geauga County Fairgrounds. While the weather is nice, we will meet at the pavilion at the East Show Ring. The Great Geauga County Fair is quickly approaching, and our youth members are gearing up for ‘Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights’. Be sure to stop by
and say hello! The kids will be working hard preparing their horses and having fun decorating their stalls for a great fair. Our Tails and Trails Youth Group tie-died red, white and blue shirts at their last meeting. If you are attending, there is a mandatory meeting on August 7 at 7 p.m. at the fairgrounds. If you are unable to attend the meeting, please be sure to let Kelli Burns know. (kelliburns86@gmail.com)
Stay up to date on the current
news, events, and show dates within our organization by visiting www.ghpa.us, or following us on Facebook. Geauga Horse and Pony Association thanks Big Dee’s Tack for their generous support of our organization through their Bonus Buck’s program. Likewise, thank you to Schneiders Saddlery for their generous support. We greatly appreciate all these two wonderful companies provide for our organization.
August....my birth month. As a kid, this month was my favorite and not my favorite. Plenty of summer left yet, but school would start soon. Same with
horse shows. Plenty of shows left yet, but quite a few behind us. The show season at The Hollow has plenty of shows left to attend. Plenty of time to work your hours towards your year end awards. Your board and members work many hours and provide the best shows in the county. I will
personally say the best shows in the state.
The Wayne County Saddle Club is a unique one of a kind entity that needs member support, sponsorship and dedication. There are life members who remember it all through the stories, the events, the overnight camp outs, trail rides...family.
The year end awards banquet in January is always great food and dancing.
All of this being said, the board would like to add a member of the month and meet your board portion in this newsletter. If you have a nominee send me an email (luckycowgirl6@gmail. com) with the information, write something up or drop a name at a show to a board member. Maybe we can honor all the hard work that is the Wayne County Saddle Club. Happy Trails—see you at The Hollow!
Mid Ohio Dressage Association
MODA has Family Ties
PRESIDENT, Jessica Kuhnash
VICE PRESIDENT, Christine Talbert-Bash
SECRETARY, Vicki Sethna
TREASURER, Angela Tewksbury
EMAIL, midohiodressage@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.midohiodressage.org
by Shannon Call and Andrea Klingelhafer
Our Mid Ohio Dressage Association (MODA) members make a family. We may not all be related but we are joined together by our love of the horse and dressage. We form a happy family basking in the things we love. Within the blended MODA family some members are multigenerational families riding together. Let’s meet the Klingelhafers!
Susie Klingelhafer (the grandmother) grew up a horse crazy city kid in Southern California. Andrea Klingelhafer, Susie’s granddaughter grew up always wanting to be
around horses. While Jessica Klingelhafer, Susie’s daughter in law, found her horse love helping her daughter Andrea. At MODA’s June Jubilee Schooling Show they all showed together. With Fred, Susie’s husband, as their reader and Susie’s son Andy helping groom and hold horses, it was truly a family affair.
Not only are the rider’s three generations but two of the horses are a mother daughter pair.
Jessica rode Mia (half Andalusian and half Lipizzan). Mia is the the dam of Ella (half Knapstrupper) who Andrea rode. Susie rode her Halflinger, Breezy. Mia has been a MODA Intro Champion with all the riders ranging from 2012 to 2024. Ella was raised by the Klingelhafers, and taught them a lot about raising and training a foal. Breezy and Susie adore each other and enjoy trail rides and schooling shows.
Susie has been riding for 70 years and competes in classical dressage at first level. Jessica has been doing classical dressage for two years at the intro level. Andrea has 18 years classical dressage levels
1 and 2 and western dressage level one experience.
Susie has been scribing and helping MODA for many years while Andrea and Jessica’s involvement has been more recent after Andrea aged out of 4-H. Andrea is the Sponsorship Coordinator and on the Awards committee. Jessica is the Volunteer Coordinator for the Mid-Ohio Classic. The VIP tent for Mid Ohio Classic is under Andrea’s careful planning. The family has enjoyed getting to know MODA members more and helping the club.
This year the Klingelhafers look forward to showing, volunteering, and most importantly spending time with each other and their horses. They feel lucky to be able to have their horses at their homes, and have each other to rely on for support and encouragement.
When you see this dynamic trio of outstanding family members at the MODA shows say hi and welcome to the family!
The summer shows are going full swing! MODA members enjoyed the June Jubilation at the lovely Home of Joy farm. The temperatures were blazing but horses and riders put on good
rides for judge Susan Proner R. This was a WDAA and AQHA special event so our western dressage competitors and those with american quarter horses were out earning points for both organizations.
The Mid Ohio Classic I and II (July 11-13), MODA’s marque event will have held by this article’s printing details and photos were posted on the MODA Facebook page. More information on the event and highlights will be posted in the September issue of the Corral. Thank you to all those who came out to support this great show.
Please join us at the Mid Ohio Dressage East meets West show September 6 and 7 at Brave Horse in Johnstown, Ohio. This is a two day show of schooling classical dressage classes and recognized WDAA western dressage as well as an AQHA special event. There will be championship classes, a team competition, and fun classes. Judges are Karen Winn, Fatima Kranz and Catherine Jacob. See showsecretay.com to enter. This is such a fun event!
Keep enjoying the summer and loving your horses!
The Klingelhafer family, Jessica, Andrea, Susie and Ed.
Ohio High School Rodeo Association
Congratulations to Ohio Junior High Rodeo Contestants
NATIONAL DIRECTOR, Nikki McCarty
PRESIDENT, Brian Corsi
SECRETARY, Holly Rowe
PHONE, 614-432-0177
WEBSITE,
www.ohiohighschoolrodeo.org
by Abigail Nisonger
It’s been a busy month for the junior high kids! They competed in Des Moines, Iowa, from June 22-28. First off we want to congratulate all the Ohio kids for representing our state well. We had 16 Ohio contestants compete. Dixie Keim was just short of making the short go in the barrel racing.
Congrats to Houston Marlor! Having tough luck in the first round, he came back even stronger to be fifth in round two. Scoring a 67.5 ride to earn him a spot in the short go! Taking home some good hardware, a top 10 plaque. In the short go, Houston drew a challenging bull.
He put up a good fight to end up 13th in the World Standings!
Our very own Carley Corsi retired from being the NJHSRA Vice President. She did a remarkable job, as many will remember her! Carley’s time was well spent as VP receiving various opportunities including, going to South Dakota and National Finals Rodeo. She encourages everyone to step out of their comfort zone and run for a national office!
With that being said, all the junior high kids are resting up for the new season to begin. Now it is time for high school contestants to travel to Rock Springs, Wyoming, to compete. We wish them the best of luck and safe travels.
If you’re interested in joining the rodeo community, extending your time with the association, or simply curious about how to sign up, visit our website at https://ohiohighschoolrodeo.org or check out our Facebook page: Ohio High School and Junior High Rodeo Association.
The membership portal for the 2025-2026 season opened on July 1, and this rodeo family is always looking to grow.
Ohio Western Horse Association
Join OWHA at Shows in August and September
PRESIDENT, Gale Davis
VICE PRESIDENTS, Marc Beck, Cinda Bame
SECRETARY, Jeremy Reed
TREASURER, Eric Haudenschield WEBSITE, www.owha.org
Hello Corral readers! Ohio Western Horse Association (OWHA) hopes you are out there enjoying the summer options and hitting your local open show circuits.
OWHA held their monthly board meeting on July 10. The board heard a report about our scholarship award winners. Plans for our annual banquet are starting to happen to award
scholarships for college students as well as division award winners for our summer shows.
A possible make-up date for the missed Bucyrus show was brought up as the Under the Oaks show committee discusses how to proceed.
The OWHA Boards and Trustee show was scheduled for July 12 in Mt. Gilead. Other shows discussed were the August 10 show in Ada, Ohio, and FRU on September 19-21 in Mt. Gilead. We hope to see people at these shows!
If you are interested in joining OWHA to take advantage of the award opportunities at the annual banquet as well as scholarship opportunities, please reach out to a board member. We love to have you be a part of OWHA.
Our Ohio team supporting Carley Corsi your 2024-25 VP.
Carley Corsi, NJHSRA Vice President 2024-25.
Houston Marlor, 2025 NJHSRA 13th in the world standings!
Possible Health Day in the Works for September
PRESIDENT, Leanne; VICE PRESIDENT (CONTEST), Anna; VICE PRESIDENT (PLEASURE), Samantha; SECRETARY, Francine; TREASURER, Ruth
EMAIL, massillonsaddleclub@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.massillonsaddleclub.org
Happy August, everyone! It is hard to believe that it is August already. County fairs are in progress, and, back to school preparations are under way. There are still many summer evenings left to enjoy the longer days, the beautiful sunrises, and, time with family and friends.
The application deadline for the Massillon Saddle Club (MSC) scholarship award is August 1. Please see the MSC website, MassillonSaddleClub.org
The 2025 Massillon Saddle Club ‘show’ season is fully underway. The MSC Facebook page has the show updates, as well as any change of dates. There is still time to complete your volunteer hours for year end awards. You can volunteer
at any show (fun show, contest show, pleasure show) or, at any MSC event. There are still a few projects at the show grounds that can be completed if you are unable to volunteer at the shows.
August begins with Ellie’s Super Fun Show on August 3, followed by an MSC Buckle Series show on August 9. The last two pleasure shows are August 10 and August 24. August 17 is a contest show. The last two contest shows of the year are September 21 and October 5.
Please don’t forget to submit your trail program total hours/ miles no later than October 5 to be considered for year end awards. If you haven’t joined the trail program, there is still time to amass hours/miles. The EquiLab app will track your trail hours; you do not need to be a member to use the app. If you wish to be included in Year End Awards of Top Three Overall for trail riding miles, there is a $25 (per rider) registration fee for members. You may ride multiple horses as the trail miles accumulate per rider. If you are not yet a member, and wish to be included
in the year end trail miles award, your MSC membership fee will be in addition to the award registration fee. Year end award miles are tracked by each rider and submitted by October 5. Please see the MSC Facebook for specific details.
The 2025 year end awards banquet and election of 2026 officers will be held November 20 at Nickajack Farms. More information to follow.
Watch the MSC Facebook page for a possible Health Day around September 20. Although event participants are still being confirmed, the proposed schedule will have the clinicians describing their product or service, such as equine adjustments or supplements. Appointments will begin around noon, and, continue for the next few hours. Costs for each service will be determined by each clinician.
If you would like to make a donation to any of the shows or to donate small (or large) items for the year end awards raffles, or for show day special awards, please contact us. If you would like to donate baked goods for the pleasure show cake walk, or small award items for year end awards, or show day special awards, please let us know. If you have a business that you would like to highlight, please
consider a sponsorship, or a small donation of your company’s product. All donations are gratefully accepted!
Do you have too many medallions from your multiple placings, and, are not sure what to do with them? New this year is a medallion buyback program. MSC will give you a $1 credit for every two medals that you return. Medallions must be in good condition; MSC retains the right to decline any medallions that are not in good condition. You will be issued a credit slip that can be used for your classes or at the food booth. Please see the MSC Facebook page for additional program details. And, many, many thanks for any returned medallions!
Massillon Saddle Club, Inc is in the process of making some updates to the website and Facebook pages. Please bear with us as the updates are made. If you need a form that you can’t locate, feel free to message the Facebook page.
Until next month, MSC hopes everyone enjoys the various fairs, time with family and friends, and, has amazing rides. Good luck to all of our 4H members who have qualified for the county fair. May each of your days be filled with happy horse adventures!
Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club
Congratulations to the July High Point Winners
PRESIDENT, Emily Scott VICE PRESIDENT, Brett Hammersmith
SECRETARY, Amy Cluse
TREASURER, Terri Rafeld
EMAIL, paintandplaininfo@yahoo.com
WEBSITE, ashlandpaintandplain.com
by Taylor Wheaton
We’d like to congratulate our July 5-6 High Point winners! 13 & UNDER: Co-winners Shannon Steiner with What A
What Now and Kinsley Goran with How About A Cowgirl 14-18: Emma Tingley with Scotch and Chocolate 19 & OVER: Leah Blay with RHF Doubledup Martini
SMALL FRY: Baylor Shaw and How About A Cowgirl WALK TROT 10-18: Madelyn Duran and Batting on Impulse WALK TROT 19 & OVER: Tammy Horton with Lil Bit O Wimpy
We look forward to seeing everyone at our final show for 2025, August 9-10.
Tri-County Trail Association
Annual Ox and Pig Roast is Largest Event of the Year
PRESIDENT, Jim Mike
VICE PRESIDENT, Cindy Krumm
SECRETARY, Bev Mills
TREASURER, Lydia Fox
WEBSITE, www.tri-cotrails.com
by Kelly Jo Heffner
Happy August everyone! August is the month for our annual Ox and Pig Roast here at Tri-County Trails. The annual raffle with cash prizes is held at this event! The entertainment for Saturday night is a live band. There are many things planned for this weekend event. A poker
run is going to be on Saturday for those who would like to participate. The annual raffle pays out 12 places and all are cash prizes ranging from $50 to $1500! If you haven’t purchased your ticket yet for a chance to win, then you should do so quickly as this drawing will be held after the dinner service on Saturday, August 16! This event also has many donated items that will be auctioned off. Past donations have included skids of saw dust, composite chair sets, and many other large items. A 50/50 drawing will be done that evening for anyone attending, and tickets for the smaller donations are available also. Some of the smaller donations have included
Western Reserve Carriage Association
PRESIDENT, Barbara King
VICE PRESIDENT, Michele Steven
TREASURER, Shellie Kwitkowski
SECRETARY, Cathy Rhoades
WEBSITE, Westernreservecarriage.com
gift baskets of wine, horse related baskets, pet baskets, paintings, wooden shelves, and much, much more! This event with the annual raffle is our largest event every year!
The annual Terri Willard Memorial Poker run is always held during the event. This is a great time to go on a trail ride and pull cards to try to get the winning poker hand! If you are the one of the lucky winners, you will get a cash prize as well as your entry fee back (depending on how many entries). The best part about the poker run is being out on the trails enjoying the weather and the trails. The best poker hand is great too! The live band will perform after
Hot Weather Impacts Summer Events
by Cathy Rhoades
the dinner service on Saturday evening and always promises to be a good time for everyone as the dance floor gets busy with everyone of all ages! The band usually plays after the dinner service until late into the evening (usually until 10 or 11 depending on how many people are still in the pavilion) and gives everyone a chance to enjoy the music. There are so many things to do at this annual event that you will have to come and join in on the fun to truly see what our club has to offer!Make sure to mark your calendar to come join us for our annual Ox and Pig Roast and buy a ticket for your chance to win in our annual raffle on the weekend of August 15-17!
The Western Reserve Carriage Association (WRCA) summer events may have been impacted by some hot weather, but there was still fun and as always food! Our annual Zoar drive was lightly attended due to temperatures in the mid to upper nineties. We had over a dozen members come to the school house for a cool lunch. Usually we have a beautiful drive through the historic village. Two members brought their horses to drive. Jenny and Bob Schandel brought a turnout and Betsy Connor came from a wagon train with her pair. Thanks Ann for organizing this favorite event.
A new event was held on July 5 at Medina County Fairgrounds. The ring was watered and well suited for all sized driving equines.
Due to a hot and humid day, we started fun classes at 9:30 a.m. We had some hiliarious classes including bean bag toss, egg and spoon, water glass trotting, and a driving derby. There were some goofy prizes and some barn items from Big Dee bucks. The overall winner was Heather Raw with gator Judy Winkler. We cooled down for lunch with an assortment of pasta salads and popsicles. Hope to do something similar next year!
Our End of the Year event
is booked for November 16 at Brushwood Lodge. We typically will provide a main dish, coffee, water with sides brought by members. There will also be door prizes from Big Dee Bucks. We would like input as to type of items you prefer; we normally do some gift certificates and ‘consumables’ such as fly spray, shampoo, treats,etc.
AUG. 9: Carlisle Picnic Drive
AUG. 24: Swine Creek Picnic Drive
SEPT. 28: Observatory Park Picnic Drive
PRESIDENT, Dwayne Joyner
VICE PRESIDENT, Tony Ruper
SECRETARY, Kelsey Gibson
TREASURER, Mark Maxwell
Demo at Wayne County Fair in September
EMAIL, northernohiooutlawsinfo@ gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.nooutlaws.com
By the time your read this The Ohio State shoot will have taken place. We would like to thank Kiko Meats for providing us the
wonderful food. We will also have had our Sunday Cool Down shoot. There will have been a best outfit contest. Check back next month to find out who won.
On August 2 and 3 will be The Outlaws and Bandits shoot. Please be sure to sign up. The last shoot of the season will be The Outlaw Reckoning on September 27 and 28.
If you would like to catch us in action we will be doing a demo at the Wayne County Fair on September 11.
A big thank you to all our sponsors. We would also like to
Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros
PRESIDENT, R. David Davis
TREASURER, Jessica Sheets
SECRETARY, Nancy Virzi
EMAIL, nvirzi@yahoo.com
WEBSITE, www.lakeerievaqueros.net
by Nancy Virzi (Go Forward Virzi)
Our first shoot is history, we did not have a lot of shooters attend, but we had fun even so. Our Saturday night potluck had lots of yummy food and full stomachs. Both days were really hot, but thankfully Saturday had a breeze, which helped make it tolerable. Sunday was extremely hot, but we shoot no matter what the weather. The Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros welcome a new member from this June weekend, Dallas Acker. We are very happy to welcome her into the club.
Flags with sponsors.
thank all the groups that have set balloons for us. This has been a good way for them to make some money to help them and us out. Remember, it’s always free to come and watch this exciting
Welcome to our New Member
The winners for Saturday were: L1 Kylee Kitzmiller, L2 Maria Haefner, L3 Stephanie Berry, L5 Karla Durnell, L6 Carla Rae Spackman, M2 Ed Haefner, M3 Milke Sheets, M4 Austin Spackman, M6 Paul Treas, SL1 Terri Robb, SL3 Nancy Virzi, SL4 Jeannette Black, SL5 Colleen Kelly, SM4 Dwayne Joyner, SM5 Robert Koniak, WRO Kamille Huff.
The winners for Sunday were: L1 Dallas Acker, L2 Maria Haefner, L3 Stephanie Berry,
L5 Marcella Gruchalak, L6 Carla Rae Spackman, M1 Scott Gobley, M2 Ed Haefner, M3 Sylvia Pellegrino, M4 Austin Spackman, L6 Paul Treas, SL3 Nancy Virzi, SL4 Jeanette Black, SL5 Colleen Kelly, LM4 Dwayne Joyner, SM5 Robert Koniak, WLL Tesen Hennebert Jr., WRO Kamille Huff.
Our next shoot was July 19 and 20 with a Friday night fun shoot on the 18th.
sport. Maybe you might like to try it! Follow us on Facebook or our website, http://www. nooutlaws.com/
Thank you to our wonderfull sponsors: Big Dees Tack and Vet, Siracki Realty, Kiko Meats, Parkside Trailer Sales and Service, The Horsemen’s Corral, Curly’s Ammo, Equine Bodyworks, Altmeyer Western Wear and Trailer Sales, Jefferson Milling.
Hope to see you all runnin’ and gunnin’!
Colleen Kelly
Mike Sheets
Dawn Wojtowicz
PRESIDENT, Tim Snapp
Show Your Solid Bred Paint Horses This Year
VICE PRESIDENT, Mark Peterson
TREASURER, Jill Davis
SECRETARY, Heather Collins
WEBSITE, www.ophc.org
by Tim Snapp
The last couple of shows and trail ride are headed our way!
Reminder: You can now show solid bred Paint Horses in regular classes this year and anyone is eligible for the Paynt Point system. Earn $10 a point in youth, novice youth, amateur, and novice amateur classes. These will be paid twice a year by APHA for a cost of $2 per class per judge.
Our club trail ride was enjoyed by some newcomers on June 27-29 at Van Buren State Park. Everyone had a great time. We still have an OPHC show in Springfield and one APHA show to go in Wilmington, so get ready
to head to Wilmington in August, and Springfield in September!
We had nearly 200 stalls reserved for the Buckeye Bonanza Paint-O-Rama at World Equestrian Center in Wilmington Ohio, July 26-27 with $10,000 Chrome Cash given away and 16 beautiful buckles awarded for all Hi-Point Divisions! *This was the last Midwest Connection Series Show. Many thanks to all our club officers and volunteers who helped make this Ohio show a success!
The Midwest Connection Shows in 2025 will offer four Hi-Point saddles and many other great awards for divisions and classes, totaling nearly $20,000 in prizes! Attend three of the four shows in the series and hold memberships in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio Paint Horse clubs. Full rules can be seen on the Zone 8 Facebook page or website.
The APHA Eastern National Championship Show will be held August 21-24 at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio (eight judges). They are
FRY’S EQUINE INSURANCE AGENCY
offering free leadline and select free classes for youth walk-trot and novice youth exhibitors thanks to sponsorship from Mars Equestrian. English and western versatility classes will also be offered. Show schedule and premium book are posted online at apha.com/enc. Pre-entries due August 4.
The Ohio Paint Horse Amateur Club’s APHA and All Breed Open Show will be held at the Champions Center (outdoor covered pen) in Springfield, Ohio, September 6-7 (four judges). Adult, youth, walktrot, and ranch all breed classes, $100 all breed classes, and more!
Sponsors are needed for the High Point Champion awards and all breed $100 added money classes. Contact a club officer or through Facebook for more information!
The next OPHC trail ride will be October 3-5 at Van Buren State Park. Open to all breeds. Ride for the day or all weekend. Stalls or highlines, water, and electric at every site. For more information contact Elaine Fry Bennett, phone/text 419/7011854. To reserve camping, reserveohio.com
See the ophc.org website or Facebook to stay up to date and for more information! Get out and ride!
Colorado Ranger Horse Association The CRHA 52nd National Show Slated for September
PRESIDENT, Toni Lukavich; 1ST VICE PRESIDENT, Charmaine Wulff; SECRETARY, Barbara Summerson; TREASURER, Jane Montgomery. WEBSITE, www.coloradoranger.com EMAIL, prranger@verizon.net
by Cathy Martens-Nitschke
The Colorado Ranger Horse (“The Using Horse of the High Plains”) is one that is registered with the Colorado Ranger Horse Association, Inc. (CRHA), which is one of the oldest of the western horse breed registries still in
existence in the United States. 2025 CRHA (52nd) National Show will be at Clinton County Fairgrounds, 96 Racetrack Rd Mill Hall, Pa., on September 20-21. Futurity classes run concurrent with their age/gender halter classes.
Any Appaloosa owners should have their horses’ pedigrees researched. Many horses trace back and can be registered as Rangerbreds. Odds are somewhere between one in four and one in eight. You may have a Rangerbred and don’t know it. Find information at their website for free pedigree research. Sherry Byrd is the official researcher.
Ohio Paint June trail ride.
Do Tires Go Bad Before They Wear Out?
by Robert Eversole
Spoiler alert: Yep. They sure can. I just put a fresh set of tires on the Taj Mah Small, my little LQ horse trailer. That might not sound like breaking news, until I tell you those tires only had about 10,500 miles on them. The tread still measured a healthy 7/32 of an inch. So why the swap?
The answer lies in what you can’t always see. The sidewalls showed some signs of cracking, and the DOT date codes told the rest of the story: they were old. And old rubber doesn’t age like fine wine; it dries out, loses flexibility, and eventually becomes a liability. It’s a bit like using a rubber band that’s been sitting in a junk drawer for a decade. It looks fine until it snaps when you need it most.
Cracked sidewalls might seem cosmetic, but those cracks can run through the structure. If the steel belts separate or the tread peels off at speed, you’re in for a rough ride, or worse. Even short of catastrophe, aging tires can leak, hydroplane, or increase your stopping distance when you really need to hit the brakes.
And this isn’t just about sun-baked trailer tires. Even tires stored indoors eventually break down. Most manufacturers agree that tires have a shelf life, no matter how good they look. Ford and Nissan say six years, tops. Michelin and Continental stretch it to ten, if you’re inspecting them yearly after the fifth birthday.
Trailer Tires Age Out — Period
Most folks will wear out their vehicle tires before the rubber ages out. But not when it comes to trailers. Let’s be real: trailer tires do a lot more sitting than rolling. For most of us, the tread will still be perfectly serviceable when the sidewalls start to crack. Trailer tires almost always age out before they wear out. And that’s where folks get surprised, because it’s not about miles. It’s about time.
Reading the Fine Print (Literally)
If you know where to look, every tire has a ‘born-on’ date. Find the oval with four numbers stamped into the sidewall. A code like 2719 means the 27th week of 2019, around July.
Just know that the code may be on the inward-facing side of the tire. That means you might have to crawl around with a flashlight or even pull a tire to check it. It’s worth the hassle.
And no, your four tires might not all match exactly. That’s normal and shipping and supply quirks. But they should be close in age. A few weeks or months apart is fine. Years? That’s something to question.
Check Before You Roll
Even if the tires you’re buying are ‘new,’ double-check those date codes before you leave the shop. Sometimes, what’s labeled new has been sitting on a shelf for years. That doesn’t make it dangerous, but it does mean a shorter lifespan for you, and maybe a better price, if you ask.
And the Spare? Yep, That Too
It’s easy to forget the spare tire. Most of us only think about it when we’re stuck on the side of the road. But spare tires age just like the rest, even if they’ve never touched pavement. Give yours a look. If it’s looking rough or aging out, replace it before you need it.
Tires also age faster when exposed to sunlight, extreme heat, salty air, or repeated curb contact. Underinflated tires also break down more quickly. Keep them properly aired and out of the sun when you can.
Bottom Line
Tread depth isn’t the whole story. Check the sidewalls. Read the DOT date code. Sometimes, the real danger is what you can’t see until it’s too late.
For more of my thoughts on trail riding and camping with horses, plus gear tips, safety advice, and a few hard-earned lessons, visit me at TrailMeister.com or grab a copy of my best-selling book, The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping, on Amazon.
For more tips, stories, and resources on trail riding and camping with horses and mules, visit us at TrailMeister.com, the world’s largest
View From the Cheap Seats
Inside Jokes and Extra Safety Pins
by Sarah Vas
I’ve reached that stage where my horse friends and I are all slowly losing our parents. I’m in the ranks of those whose equine adventures happen so often with our mothers in tow. I know countless moms who serve as constant travel companions, unpaid grooms, insistent food servers, rail side cheer leaders, and all-around barn grunts. A local buddy’s mom passed unexpectedly earlier this summer. I learned of it through social media as it has become the place to announce such things. As summer days have rolled on, she’s occasionally posted about life now without her mom, her best friend along for the ride. Incidentally, she shows miniature horses so there’s no riding but plenty of In Hand and Driving going on. Hey, Sam...I can feel the struggle in her words as she bears the reality of adulting without her mom at arm’s reach.
There was a small driving event held back in July at the same local fairgrounds where we grew up competing out of our trailers with our moms elbow-to-elbow on the rail. I’m still selling off the last vestiges of my own equipment hoard so, I loaded up in hopes of hocking a few more blankets, bits, and bobbles. It wasn’t even a question that my own mother would tag along. And that’s always been our inside joke. Still to this day, my Mom is “always ready to go to a horse show”. Horses were where dreams came true, friendships existed, and mother-daughter time was guaranteed. I know now that she was the glue and gum that held my parents’ brief breeding program together. She was in the background making connections and finalizing kitchen table deals. Meanwhile, my father pulled spontaneous stuff like
selling her new horse trailer at a show, leaving her to find a ride home for her own horse. Or he committed to baling fields of hay for someone, only it was my Mom who mowed and raked the fields with one-year-old me papoosed around her waist on the tractor. My Mom was the wound-soother, the mess-fixer, but also the boisterous red head with childlike spirit and dreamy sense of adventure.
It was my Mom that cashed in favors to keep me involved with horses through my teens after my parents moved on from the industry. It was my Mom that threw sensibility out the window and gifted me a ‘free’ horse on my 15th birthday. It was she who also endured decades of silent treatment and constant criticism from my father for doing such a thing. My Dad had a penchant for holding grudges. After losing everything they had during the early 80s horse industry earthquake, he was angry. I don’t remember a time since when my Dad didn’t grumble out loud about hating horse shows, hating that I still wanted to be a horse trainer, hating that my Mom was still feeding this passion of mine with what secondhand tack and borrowed trailers she could find. My Mom endured. She endured a huge, painful rift in her own marriage just to continue living vicariously through me and with me in my horse dreams.
It didn’t matter if the horse show was down the road, over and done in an afternoon. It didn’t matter if the horse show was states away and several days’ long. My Mom rarely said no. She never said no to me taking any number of horses. She never said no to climbing in that truck next to me unless she absolutely had another commitment she couldn’t break. Then, my Mom would go to work on my Dad weeks before the show date, putting her own peace aside and grinding into my father the task of going with me as her substitute. I can count on one hand how many times Dad stood in as horse show companion. If I did well, he took great zeal in claiming his involvement for my skills and good fortune. Mom and I knew better.
My Mom remembers waiting on her front stoop as a small child for the horse-drawn vendor that still purveyed wares down her Cleveland neighborhood street. She would sit patiently for as long as it took just to touch fingers to the soft velvet of a merchant horse’s droopy muzzle. The chance to feed carrot tops or dandelions plucked from the yard to this magical, larger-thanlife creature left her euphoric. My Mom still lives and breathes within the magic and love that is a horse. I now know that she’s tolerated my own evolution from tenacious horse-crazy child to single-minded teenager hell bent on being right. She’s tolerated waiting for me and my life to come back around to horses again and again when my father’s force pushed me to get a ‘real job’ and leave horses behind. She’s tolerated me at my most impossible, my most militant and mean while I floundered through the early days of my training career. She’s taken on my own hardships as her own. She never stopped laying opportunity after opportunity at my feet all these decades of my life even when I myself couldn’t find the courage to dive into so many of them. She’s never lost her love of the adventure even after all those times I felt compelled to hold back and crush her enthusiasm when my own equine identity was struggling for air. So, it was no surprise that as we sat in the sweltering heat surrounded by my piles of horse gear, she brought out a cooler overflowing with cold drinks.
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Corral Calendar
DISCLAIMER: The Horsemen’s Corral has made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this calendar of events. However, the information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. The Corral does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained herein. Where possible, event contact information is provided. Please “Call before you haul”.
AUGUST 2025
AUG. 1 — Geauga Horse & Pony Association Friday Night Lights Contesting Show, 6:30 p.m., Geauga County Fairgrounds, Burton, OH. FMI: www.ghpa.us
AUG. 1 — RRR/Friday Night Fun Show, Morrow County Fairgrounds, 195 S. Main St., Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61572485331985
AUG. 1-3 — OHC State 25th Anniversary Ride - Gibby Ride, Bark Camp State Park, OH. FMI: Charlene Santee, 740-670-3470, https://ohconline.com/
AUG. 1-3 — Michigan Foundation Quarter Horse Registry Show, Midland County Fairgrounds, 6905 Eastman Ave., Midland, MI. FMI: 517-331-6085, michigan-fqhr.com
AUG. 2 — Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Association Show, Guernsey County Fairgrounds, 335 Old National Rd., Old Washington, OH. FMI: 740-877-7993, ohfqha.com
AUG. 2 — Auglaize County OHC Gymkhana Show, Auglaize County Fairgrounds, Wapakoneta, OH. FMI: Terri Metzger, 419236-2546, https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100064919254590
AUG. 2 — LCHS Open Show Summer Series, Carlisle Reservation Equestrian Center, 13630 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, OH. FMI: Jennifer, 440-323-5219
AUG. 2 — SAGA Farm Schooling Show Series, Morrow County Fairgrounds, 195 S. Main St., Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: 419-5641205, sagasporthorses@gmail.com
AUG. 2 — Foxhunting Clinic, Sewickley Hunt Club, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., WPQHA Showgrounds, New Castle, PA. FMI: sewickleyhuntevents@gmail.com, www. sewickleyhuntclub.com
AUG. 2 — Cow Horse Show, 2 p.m., Davis Ranch Training & Event Center, 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: Dave, 812-620-5707
AUG. 2 — Circle X Ranch Open Show, 10 a.m., 818 W. 250 N., Winchester, IN. FMI: 317-868-6011
AUG. 2-3 — Mountain Trail Competition & Championship, Creek Side Horse Park, 7369 Mottice Dr. SE, Waynesburg, OH. FMI: creeksidehorsepark@gmail.com, creeksidehorsepark.com
AUG. 2-3 — Premier Mount N Trail Obstacle Competition Series, Phoenix on Killian, Killian Rd., Akron, OH. FMI: www. premiermountntrail.com
AUG. 2-3 — Northern Ohio Outlaw Shoot, Wayne County Fairgrounds, Wooster, OH. FMI: northernohiooutlawsinfo@gmail. com, www.nooutlaws.com
AUG. 3 — Massillon Saddle Club Fun Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
AUG. 3 — Lawrence County Horseman’s Association Show, 1 p.m., 475 Commerce Drive, Ironton, OH. FMI: 304-360-0013
AUG. 3 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812447-9579
AUG. 6-10 — Michigan Trail Rider Association August Reunion Ride, Goose Creek Trail Camp, Grayling, MI. FMI: mtra. office@gmail.com, www.mtra.org
AUG. 8 — Summer Sizzler Jackpot Show, 6 p.m., 5695 Clay City Drive, Uhrichsville, OH. FMI: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/202531196595646
AUG. 8 — RRR/Friday Night Fun Show, Morrow County Fairgrounds, Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61572485331985
AUG. 8 — Horse Sale, Sugarcreek Stockyards, 102 Buckeye St., Sugarcreek, OH. FMI: 330-831-1720
AUG. 8 — Cross Country Saddle Club 2025 Buckle Series, 96 Finey Rd., Glasgow, KY. FMI: Brianna, 270-590-3104
AUG. 8-10 — Mounted Archery Championship, Creek Side Horse Park, 7369 Mottice Dr. SE, Waynesburg, OH. FMI: creeksidehorsepark@gmail.com, creeksidehorsepark.com
AUG. 8-10 — Michigan Paint Horse Club Back 2 Basics Show, Cass County Fairgrounds, Cassopolis, MI. FMI: www. miphc.com
ERIE COUNTY CHAPTER
of the Ohio Horseman’s Council
Poker Ride
AUG. 9 — Massillon Saddle Club Buckle Series, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
AUG. 9 — Hocking Hills Saddle Club Mini Show, Hocking County Fairgrounds, Logan, OH. FMI: Chrissy Robers, 740603-2073, hchorseshow@gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61556989073547
AUG. 9 — Gibsonburg Saddle Club Speed Show, Gisbsonburg Saddle Club Saddle Grounds, 961 N. Main Street, Gibsonburg, OH. FMI: Jerry Heaps, 419-351-9716, gibsonburgsaddleclub@gmail.com, https://gibsonburgsaddleclub.org
AUG. 9-10 — Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club Show, 9 a.m., Ashland County Fairgrounds, 2042 Claremont Ave., Ashland, OH. FMI: appshowoffice@gmail. com, ashlandpaintandplain.com
AUG. 9-10 — Buckeye Equestrian Association presents Confidence Clinic with Rose Watt, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Pure Gold Stables, 3325 OH-45, Salem, OH. FMI: Susan Smith-Gordon, 724-301-1414, smithgordonsusan@gmail.com
AUG. 9-10 — High Call Productions & Central State Ropes, Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 South Franklin St., Eaton, OH. FMI: Kaylee, 937-603-2197, https://www. facebook.com/bullenequestriancenter
Directions: Route 2 exit at Route 61, South on 61 for 1 mile, cross railroad tracks and turn left on Driver Road, 3/4 mile to Smokey Road, right and you’re there!
Where: Edison Woods MetroPark, Berlin Heights, OH
Registration: Starts at 9 a.m. through Noon
Cost: $20 Donation
W Come and join us for a beautiful fall ride through Edison Woods. Ride a marked course at your own pace. This is NOT a timed event. Children and riders of all experience levels are welcome. All hands turned in by 2 p.m. Cash prizes to the top male/female. Lots of runner-up prizes!
W A delicious lunch will be served from 12 to 2 p.m. Sponsored by the Erie County Chapter of the Ohio Horseman’s Council.
W This is a fundraiser to benefit bridle trails and equine activities.
W Please no running on trails during event!
Corral Calendar
Continued from page 34
AUG. 9-10 — Premier Mount N Trail Obstacle Competition Series, Holland Western Horse Park, 3856 61st St., Holland, MI. FMI: www.premiermountntrail.com
AUG. 10 — Massillon Saddle Club Pleasure Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
AUG. 10 — Geauga Horse & Pony Association Open Horse Show, 8 a.m., Geauga County Fairgrounds, Burton, OH. FMI: www.ghpa.us
AUG. 10 — Wayne County Saddle Club Sunday Fun Show, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Rachael Adamson, 419-606-9712, waynecountysaddleclub.com
AUG. 10 — Jagged Ridge Mountain Trail Series Youth Open Horse Show, 9 a.m., Stone Gate Farm, 31575 Schneider Rd., Hanoverton, OH. FMI: Stephanie Tarr, 330322-5431
AUG. 10 — Combined Test & Dressage Schooling Show, Blue Goose Stable, 210 White Horse Rd., Cochranville, PA. FMI: 610-999-5231, bluegoosestable.com
AUG. 10 — Indiana Miniature Equine Club Show, 10 a.m., Hendricks County Fairgrounds Horse Arena & Barn, Danville, IN. FMI: Lori Benge, 317-289-4284, Lori. Benge25@yahoo.com, www.imecnews.com
AUG. 10 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812447-9579
AUG. 15 — RRR/Friday Night Fun Show, Morrow County Fairgrounds, 195 S. Main St., Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61572485331985
AUG. 15-16 — Wayne County Saddle Club Friday Nite Fun Show & Buckle Series (15th) & Open Contest Show (16th), The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Leanne (fun show), 330-8444041, Jamie (contest) 330-933-3741, waynecountysaddleclub.com
AUG. 15-16 — Detroit Horse Power Endurance Ride, Kensington Metro Park, 4570 Huron River Pkw., Milford, MI. FMI: Laura, 248-676-9599, hideawayhorses@ gmail.com, www.oaats.org
AUG. 16 — Knox County Horse Park High Point Show, 7500 Thayer Road, Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: 740-627-0096, kchp.mtv. ohio@gmail.com, knoxcountyhorsepark. mypixieset.com
AUG. 16 — Davis Ranch Open Horse Show, 10 a.m., 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: David Davis, 812-6205707, dave@daviddavishorsemanship.com
AUG. 16 — Just A Small Town Ranch Fun Show, 10 a.m., 297 Bobb Road, Middleburg, PA. FMI: Becky Bobb, 570-765-1610, https://www.facebook.com/ justasmalltownranch
AUG. 16-17 — Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros Summer Heat I & II, Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, 107 Poplar St., Jefferson, OH. FMI: 330-719-3290, www. lakeerievaqueros.net
AUG. 16-17 — 1st Ohio Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 South Franklin St., Eaton, OH. FMI: Kaylee, 937-603-2197, https://www.facebook. com/bullenequestriancenter
AUG. 16-17 — ISHA Spring Open All Breed Horse Show, Hoosier Horse Park, Edinburgh, IN. FMI: Donna Skatrud, 317418-6381, skatrudarabians@gmail.com, indianasaddlehorse.org
AUG. 17 — Ranch Championship, Creek Side Horse Park, 7369 Mottice Dr. SE, Waynesburg, OH. FMI: creeksidehorsepark@gmail.com, creeksidehorsepark.com
AUG. 17 — Massillon Saddle Club Contesting Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
AUG. 17 — Blue Lakes NEOHA Approved Show, Blue Lakes Farm, 14037 Auburn Road, Newbury, OH. FMI: Chip Ashcraft, 440-850-2969, http://www. dustybootsridingclub.com
AUG. 17 — Premier Mount N Trail Obstacle Competition Series, Kal-Val Saddle Club, 9853 S. 34th St., Scotts, MI. FMI: www. premiermountntrail.com
AUG. 17 — Mane Event Open Show Series, 9 a.m., Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: Jessica Daniels, 740-361-9411, jdshowhorses@ yahoo.com, https://www.facebook.com/ share/1EYwgdfaJe/?mibextid=wwXIfr
AUG. 22-23 — Terry Myers Horsemanship Clinic, S Bar L Arena, 686 Smokey Lane Rd. NW, Sugarcreek, OH. FMI: www.ohioexca. com
AUG. 22-23 — Ogemaw Thursday Series Finals, Ogemaw County Fairgrounds, 2300 Rifle River Trail, West Branch, MI. FMI: Allyson Kisser, 989-305-9675, ogemawthursdayseries@gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100089097083620
AUG. 22-24 — Mid Ohio Marauders Shoot, Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: 740-206-7214, midohiomarauders@gmail.com, www. midohiomarauders.com
AUG. 23 — Wayne County Saddle Club Pleasure Show, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Angela, 330-4658386, waynecountysaddleclub.com
AUG. 23 — OVTPA Sorting, Treharne Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown/ Clarkson Rd., Negly, OH. FMI: John May, 814-397-3265
AUG. 23 — St. Joseph County Horseman’s Association Fun Speed Show, 21388 Centreville-Constantine Rd., Centreville, MI. FMI: Shirel Hart, 269-506-6390
AUG. 23-24 — Dusty Boots Riding Club
NEOHA Approved Open Pleasure Show, 9 a.m., Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, Jefferson, OH. FMI: Chip Ashcraft, 440-8502969, http://www.dustybootsridingclub. com/
AUG. 23-24 — Butler County Saddle Horse Association Relaxed Show, Bullen Equestrian Center at Preble County Fairgrounds, Eaton, OH. FMI: questions@ bcsaddlehorse.com, bcsaddlehorse.com
AUG. 23-24 — Champions Center Open Show, 4144 Laybourne Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: 937-324-4353, championscenter06@ gmail.com, championscenterarena.com
AUG. 24 — Massillon Saddle Club Pleasure Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
AUG. 24 — B&B Gymkhana, Champaign County Fairgrounds, Urbana, OH. FMI: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/681969515204743
AUG. 28-SEPT. 1 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by Fairfield County, Scioto Trails State Forest, OH. FMI: Chris Streitenbarger, 740-703-7740, cstreite@ gmail.com, https://ohconline.com/
AUG. 30 — Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Association Show, Guernsey County Fairgrounds, Old Washington, OH. FMI: 740-877-7993, ohfqha.com
AUG. 30 — Hocking Hills Saddle Club Open Horse Show Series, 9 a.m., Hocking County Fairgrounds, Logan, OH. FMI: Chrissy Robers, 740-603-2073, hchorseshow@ gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61556989073547
AUG. 30 — Midwest Saddle & Bridle Association Intro To Ranch Fun Show, 9 a.m., 25 N. 450 E. Valparaiso, IN. FMI: 219241-3037
AUG. 30 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812447-9579
AUG. 30-31 — Ohio State Buckskin Association Red, White & Gold Show, Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: Kali Blackburn, 724-7187161 (text), www.ohiobuckskins.org
AUG. 30-31 — Western Ohio Youth Rodeo, Preble County Fairgrounds Bullen Equestrian Center, Eaton, OH. FMI: Mike Asbury, 937-726-9711, https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61557530051194
AUG. 30-31 — A Very Ranchy Weekend with Jennifer Sawyer, Crazy Woman Ranch, 6450 Lancaster-Circleville Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH. FMI: Blake, 614-209-2154
AUG. 30-31 — East Coast Outlaws Shoot, Lycoming County Fairgrounds, Hughesville, PA. FMI: ecoshooters@gmail.com, eastcoastoutlaws.com
AUG. 30-SEPT. 1 — White River Fall Labor Endurance Ride, Timbers Edge Campground, Hesperia, MI. FMI: Pat Wierngo, 231-854-0092, tecllc04@aol.com
SEPTEMBER 2025
SEPT. 5 — Fast Times Fridays Series Open Horse Show, Madison County Fairgrounds Indoor Arena, 3237 Old Irvine Rd., Richmond, KY. FMI: Ronnie Smith, 859771-3388
SEPT. 5-7 — Ranch Horse Association of Michigan Show, Berrien County Youth Fairgrounds, Berrien Springs, MI. FMI: www.miranchhorse.com
SEPT. 5-14 — Michigan Trail Rider Association September Ride, Stoney Creek Trail Camp, Afton, MI. FMI: mtra.office@ gmail.com, www.mtra.org
SEPT. 6 — Gibsonburg Saddle Club Speed Show, Gisbsonburg Saddle Club Saddle Grounds, 961 N. Main Street, Gibsonburg, OH. FMI: Jerry Heaps, 419-351-9716, gibsonburgsaddleclub@gmail.com, https://gibsonburgsaddleclub.org
Please turn to page
Corral Calendar
Continued from page 36
SEPT. 6 — SAGA Farm Schooling Show Series, Morrow County Fairgrounds, 195 S. Main St., Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: 419-5641205, sagasporthorses@gmail.com
SEPT. 6 — Southern Kentucky Team Penning Association Show, 10:30 a.m., WKU L.D. Brown Ag Expo Center, 406 Elrod Rd., Bowling Green, KY. FMI: Greg, 270646-8495
SEPT. 6 — Kentuckiana Ranch Horse Association Show, Shelby County Fairgrounds, 1513 Midland Trail, Shelbyville, KY. FMI: kentuckianaranchhorse.weebly.com
SEPT. 6 — Cow Horse Show, 2 p.m., Davis Ranch Training & Event Center, 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: Dave, 812-620-5707
SEPT. 6 — Circle X Ranch Open Show, 10 a.m., 818 W. 250 N., Winchester, IN. FMI: 317-868-6011
SEPT. 6-7 — OPHC Amateur Club Show, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: ohiophc@gmail.com, ophc.org
SEPT. 6-7 — Mid Ohio Dressage Association East Meets West Schooling Show, Brave Horse Ohio, 1029 S. County Line Rd. NW, Johnstown, OH. FMI: midohiodressage@ gmail.com, www.midohiodressage.com, showsecretary.com
SEPT. 6-7 — Premier Mount N Trail Obstacle Competition Series, Phoenix on Killian, Killian Rd., Akron, OH. FMI: www. premiermountntrail.com
SEPT. 6-7 — Ponies of America, Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 South Franklin St., Eaton, OH. FMI: 937-603-2197, https://www. facebook.com/bullenequestriancenter
SEPT. 6-7 — Central West Virginia Mule and Donkey Show, Holly Gray Park, Sutton, WV. FMI: Tim and Stacy Smith, 304-532-5206, WVCentralMule@gmail.com, https://www. facebook.com/WVMuleandDonkeyShow
SEPT. 12 — Cross Country Saddle Club 2025 Buckle Series, 96 Finey Rd., Glasgow, KY. FMI: Brianna, 270-590-3104
SEPT. 12-14 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by Ashland County, Mohican State Forest, OH. FMI: Tim Tuttle, 419-5121216, timtuttle59@yahoo.com, https:// ohconline.com/
SEPT. 14 — Lawrence County Horseman’s Association Show, 1 p.m., 475 Commerce Drive, Ironton, OH. FMI: 304-360-0013
SEPT. 14 — Indiana Miniature Equine Club Show, 10 a.m., Hendricks County Fairgrounds Horse Arena & Barn, Danville, IN. FMI: Lori Benge, 317-289-4284, Lori. Benge25@yahoo.com, www.imecnews.com
SEPT. 14 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812447-9579
SEPT. 19-20 — Iron Horse Endurance Ride, Elkins Creek Horse Camp, Pedro, OH. FMI: Mollie Smith, 513-315-5907, mkrumlaw@ webcincy.com, www.oaats.org
SEPT. 19-20 — Mid-Eastern Farriers Association 2025 Annual Competition and Clinic, Hocking College, 3301 Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH. FMI: Levi Runnion, 740-255-2375
SEPT. 19-21 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by NW Region, Van Buren State Park, OH. FMI: Al Sidell, 419-680-2036, sidellandco@ yahoo.com, https://ohconline.com/
SEPT. 19-21 — Mid Ohio Marauders Year End Shoot, Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: 740-2067214, www.midohiomarauders.com
SEPT. 19-21 — Wayne County Saddle Club Friday Nite Fun Show & Buckle Series (19th) & The Roundup (20th & 21st), The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Leanne (fun show) 330-8444041, Stan (Roundup) 330-607-5206, waynecountysaddleclub.com
SEPT. 20 — Knox County Horse Park High Point Show, 7500 Thayer Road, Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: 740-627-0096, knoxcountyhorsepark.mypixieset.com
SEPT. 20 — Davis Ranch Open Horse Show, 10 a.m., 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: David Davis, 812-6205707, dave@daviddavishorsemanship.com
SEPT. 20 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: 812-447-9579
SEPT. 20 — Venango County Open Fun and Pleasure Horse Show, Venango County Fairgrounds Horse Barn, 867 Mercer Rd., Franklin, PA. FMI: Jessica, 814-573-6638
SEPT. 20 — Just A Small Town Ranch Fun Show, 10 a.m., 297 Bobb Road, Middleburg, PA. FMI: Becky, 570-765-1610, https:// www.facebook.com/justasmalltownranch
SEPT. 20-21 — Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros Autumn Trail I & II, Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, 107 Poplar St., Jefferson, OH. FMI: 330-719-3290, www. lakeerievaqueros.net
SEPT. 20-21 — INPHC Freedom Reins & All Breed Invitational, Jasper County Fairgrounds, Rensselaer, IN. FMI: www. inphc.club
SEPT. 21 — Massillon Saddle Club Contesting Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041
SEPT. 25-28 — Tough Enough To Wear Pink Horse Show, 8 a.m., Champions Center, 4122 Laybourne Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: Kay, 740-606-7640, www.tetwphs.com
SEPT. 26-27 — Madison County Equine Committee Open Horse Show Series/Tack Sale, 205 Elm Street, London, OH. FMI: Morgan Krebs, 740-506-1429
SEPT. 26-27 — LBL/Region 14 AHA 50 Endurance Ride, Land Between the Lakes Recreational Area, Golden Pond, KY. FMI: Eric Beene, 901-647-5793, 5windsranch@ aol.com, www.oaats.org
SEPT. 26-28 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by Cuyahoga, Medina & Summit County OHC Chapters, Cleveland Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation Polo Field, Chagrin Falls, OH. FMI: Joani Hedderick, 330-730-4652, https://ohconline.com/
SEPT. 26-28 — Western Pennsylvania Mule & Donkey Days (26-28th) & 1st Annual Western Pennsylvania Mule & Donkey Show (27-28th), WPQHA Show Grounds, 3670 Harlansburg Rd., Harlansburg, PA. FMI: Brittany, 724854-2650, https://www.facebook.com/ WPAmuleanddonkeydays
SEPT. 27 — Wayne County Saddle Club Open Contest Show, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Jamie Carlisle, 330-933-3741, waynecountysaddleclub.com
SEPT. 27 — Large Animal Auction, BLT Livestock Auction, 19340 Raymond Rd., Marysville, OH. FMI: Tom, 937-537-0910, https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100057160642514
SEPT. 27 — OVTPA Sorting, Treharne Training Center, 49053 FredricktownClarkson Rd., Negly, OH. FMI: John May, 814-397-3265
SEPT. 27-28 — Northern Ohio Outlaw Shoot, Wayne County Fairgrounds, Wooster, OH. FMI: northernohiooutlawsinfo@gmail. com, www.nooutlaws.com
SEPT. 27-28 — Battle In The Arena, The Show Arena, 1640 Co. Rd. B, Swanton, OH. FMI: 419-290-3700, theshowarena.com
SEPT. 27-28 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812-447-9579
For More Equine Events Visit www.thehorsemenscorral.com
Flatlanders Dressage & Combined Training Association, Inc. Join FDCTA for Fun Days
PRESIDENT, Pat Boutwell
VICE PRESIDENT, LeeAnn Kagy
TREASURER, Lisa Gross
SECRETARY, Jill Christopher
EMAIL, fdcta@aol.com
FACEBOOK, www.facebook.com/ groups/FDCTA
by Heather Bonifas
Summer is here and the fun has officially begun. We, as a club, have been enjoying several events that we planned over the cooler months. Those events include a clinic with Sue King and several of our members. Here is a brief recap of the clinic written by a fellow member and organizer, Margie Shoop: FDCTA knows how to dig deep when in the trenches. It wasn’t the most beautiful day but our riders pushed through and our clinician Sue King gave each person and horse perspective and insight as only she can. Her experience as a horse trainer,
rider trainer and coaching teams all came into play today. We had one on one and semi private lessons, in the saddle and in-hand work. I want to thank all the diligent participants and their amazing steeds for dealing with this unpredictable rain day!
Awards to Lee Ann Kagy for warrior of the day taking two sessions in a row, two different horses and LeeAnn had a swollen ankle from a hoof to ankle encounter.
Becky Neville and Nickle brought their best game in the rain! What a team those two are!
To Crystal Wilson and Dolce the seahorse for riding in ‘the most rain of the day’.
To Nichole Griffith Miller for being the most wonderful ground crew for LeAnn and Schatze.
Jill Christopher and Allison Carles for best pairs riding! Their horses Maddie and Evie were rock stars!
Kimbie Sunshine with Ted riding as the slick and cool team in the aftermath of rain to show us what a great team they are. And who can forget our ground
crew and gate keepers, Thomas Kagy and James Shoop! Tom, a million thanks for arena prep. And Pat Boutwell and Tom and LeeAnn for all the logistics and site prep.
But who could forget those beautiful and very well painted ground poles! LeeAnn and I did an incredible job of color schemes and the most centered paint to keep everyone focused on the middle.
Thank you, Margie, for your exciting recap of the day.
In July, a group of members met at Van Buren State Park to do a bit of trail riding followed by the monthly meeting. It was in the heatwave of the month, but they pressed on without pause.
Trails all around Ohio and surrounding states are a great way to enjoy nature, test your skills, get some variety in your training routine and gather with like-minded equestrian friends. Using the Internet, plan your next group meeting to enjoy an outing at one of the plentiful bridal trails provided. In many successful training programs, trainers and owners provide variety in the daily schedule. Like people, our horses get bored with the same old thing every day. Structure is great, but variety is the spice of life. Looking forward to the rest of
the warmer riding season, we have at least three planned fun days at member’s homes, including Jonna Schumway, MaryLou Paxton and Beth Metzger’s facilities. Each day will bring with it a unique environment and planned activities. As we all know, summer is also bug season. Proper precautions and preventatives are a must if we are to survive with the least annoyance possible. Leg coverings, fly sheets, sprays and ointments protect the horse not only while on the trails, but in the stall, barn or pasture. Eliminating stagnant water and regularly cleaning buckets and water troughs will help with the control of disease carrying vectors. Don’t forget the old burlap bag of barley (say that one three times fast) in the water trick to discourage mosquito larvae. Using a natural based bug repellent with essential oils has been a popular trend in the last few years, but remember to test on a small area of your animal (or yourself) before going for full coverage. Reason being, sunburn may occur more easily on some after application or still others may have contact dermatitis reactions.
Unfortunately, time flies while you’re having fun, so soak in the moments! Until next time, God bless.
View From the Cheap Seats
Continued from page 30
She recited the contents of her snack bag just in case I or any other person attending the show was hungry. She was cheerful, encouraging, happy to be there even as I complained and whined and grumbled about dragging too much stuff back to my garage when the weekend ended. And then, I apologized for being such a downer because someday, I’ll be at a horse show needing a safety pin and she won’t be there with one hanging from her shirttail. Someday, she won’t be there to share all that we both
love, hate, and laugh about at every horse show.
Sarah Vas, a second-generation horse woman, writes about her decades of adventure and mayhem in the equine industry. Her experience encompasses multiple breeds and disciplines. A humble storyteller and educator at heart, her Cheap Seats column is often infused with the spirit of her two favorite philosophies. Laughter is the Breath of Life and Poverty is the Real Mother of Invention.
The Cowboy Perseverance Ranch
A Stroll Down Memory Lane
by Rob and Tanya Corzatt
As I am writing this, we just celebrated the Memorial Day by doing what we always do on long holiday weekends. We spent the whole weekend tackling a major improvement project. This year it was replacing some horse panels and electric rope fencing with a more secure “board” fence around two sides of the area we keep the cows in. Unlike the horses, the cows have absolutely no respect for the rope fence unless it is on. There may have been a time or two when someone forgot to turn the fence back on after we had to make a repair somewhere along the lines. The cows are quick to remind us after we see them wandering around in the front yard! The board fence should eliminate that possibility. Again, several of our Barn family members were there to help over the weekend. But that is not really the subject of this article. Coincidentally, the
holiday got me thinking about loved ones that have passed on and other loved ones that I am going to blame for getting me into this whole horse business in the first place! You have to understand that I am saying that tongue in cheek. I told T a couple years ago after complaining to her about having to make a major repair or stacking another 500 bales of hay in the 100-degree hay loft (pick one) that I would cry if I looked out the windows of our home and didn’t see some horses in the lots.
We had a Palomino mare here recently that has since found an adoring new owner. That mare was built like a tank. Very stocky but also quite pretty with a wonderful temperament. We did do some limited work with her and the cows in the arena. I am not much of a palomino guy, but I really liked that mare. My daughter-in-law has a new Gruella mare here who is just as stocky, friendly and pretty. Both horses made me remember something my father said his
dad would say…”with a rear end like that, the front end has to go!” I recently mentioned that to someone that was here at the barn when they made a comment about how stocky the new mare is. That triggered some very fond memories of my late Grandpa Eddie. I am pretty sure my Great Grandpa also had horses to help with work on the farm, but he passed when I was just a toddler, so I do not remember him at all. So, I am going to say that Grandpa Eddie, is the reason my family, the Corzatts, are so enamored with horses. Some of my earliest memories were road trips my younger brother and I made with my grandpa and dad to horse sales. I was young enough that going to exotic places like Indiana and Illinois were quite the adventure! I was also stunned how many people knew my grandpa at these sales. I assumed he was famous! I remember that my brother and I were afraid to talk or even move during the sale, fearing that we would accidentally bid on a horse. And Heaven forbid if you made eye contact with the sales guys working the ring! I should have known that they wouldn’t take either my brother or me seriously! My dad may not quite remember it that way. He might say it was all he could do to get my brother and I to be quiet! My brother and I were just getting into showing horses, but we were also learning how to rope as well. My mom and dad would haul us around central Ohio to show or we would go over to friends or rodeos to watch my dad rope with his friends. We were too small to tie down rope at that time and I don’t really remember them offering break away roping back then. So we got to hone our “three raps and a hooey” on the poor goats! At the County Fair, we had our moments in the rail classes, but it was on fun day when we had the most fun. My grandpa was always looking for horses we could take in the show ring as well as the roping chutes. He and my dad did a phenomenal job of making sure my brothers and I had good horses to ride! I can’t think of a single horse that we owned that didn’t have that stocky build.
My family lived in Columbus for several years because that is where my dad worked. When my younger brother and I were
Tanya and Rob Corzatt
a bit older, we would stay with my grandma and grandpa at the family farm in Leesburg during the summer. My grandpa loved to go to farm auctions even though I don’t remember him ever buying any equipment for our farm. He mainly wanted to go spend some time with his friends, who also weren’t really there to buy any equipment! The auctions were fun for about an hour or so but then my brother and I would get bored and want to leave. I don’t know how many times it would look like we were heading to the truck only for my grandpa to run into another old friend. My grandpa was the only one with a watch, so I never really knew what time it was. However, we knew we would be leaving in time to get back to the farm in order for my grandpa to have his lunch at noon. After lunch, which was typically a feast prepared by my grandma, he would take a short nap before heading back out to do something around the farm. That was when my brother and I would just play around for a bit. We moved back to Fayette County from Columbus right before I started the fourth grade. It was about that time that my youngest brother was born. We owned a few acres which allowed us to have a few horses, some pasture and a riding/roping arena. That was about the time I started in 4-H and my grandpa was one of my club advisors. He was also a judge, so I remember a few times when he, my grandma and brother would go to horse shows just to watch. We moved down to the family farm right before my junior year in high school. My mom and dad have been there ever since and both of my brothers have their homes, barns, arenas, etc. on a portion of the family farm. I pray you all have fond memories of those you should be honoring and remembering. Our family members and friends, our troops and our emergency responders. Not just on a formal holiday, but every day of your lives. Writing this has dredged up so many fond memories, but there is only so much space in the
Please turn to page 44
Michigan Trail Riders Association, Inc.
Pre-Register for the September Ride
PRESIDENT, Dug Jordan
1st VICE PRESIDENT, Jimmy Corlew
SECRETARY, Jan Gould
TREASURER, Cindy Lawrence
WEBSITE, www.mtra.org
EMAIL, mtra.office@gmail.com
PHONE, 989/324-8549
Hello Trail Riders! We are trying something new this year due to the winter ice storm in Northern Michigan. Come ride with us September 4 through the 14 (10 nights and 11 days). The September ride will be 219.3 miles starting at Cadillac and
Mid-Ohio Marauders
PRESIDENT, Tim Calvin
heading north to Scheck’s Place Trail Camp, and then heading East to Lake Huron. This is a trophy ride with no layovers. Register to ride for one day or the whole ride. When you register early you save money, after August 24 the $14 camping fee increases to $15. Note: the online fees are higher due to the fees charged to us.
Our beautiful color ride will be October 9 through October 13 at South Branch Trail Camp (four nights and five days) early registration ends September 28. The Michigan Trail Riders Association (MTRA) has several planned rides each year where you bring your own horse to camp and ride our scheduled trail rides.
The ride calendars change every year in location and distance. You can find this information on our website at mtra.org. Please review the MTRA store page for the links to the printable calendars and other information.
REGISTRATIONS
All persons attending this ride, whether riding or not, must register and pay the fee of $14 per night if pre-registered, $15 if not pre-registered by the cutoff date. There will be no fee for youth (0-17 years) but their parents must be current members! Register online at mtra.org using the MTRA store link at the top of the page. Visit our Facebook page ‘MTRA Friends’ and talk to
riders, ask questions and join the group or contact mtra.office@ gmail.com for questions.
Mid-Ohio Marauders June Blazin Balloons Shoots
VICE PRESIDENT, Missy DeForest SECRETARY, Judy Foster TREASURER, Laurie Maris
magazine. I will never be able to thank my grandparents and parents sufficiently for all the sacrifices of their time and money they made to enable my brothers and our families to enjoy our life with horses. I also cannot begin to thank our Heavenly Father
Whitney Draisma-Hirdes, Kelle Winkle, Tyrler Vrh and David Vrh.
BLAZIN BALLOONS II SHOOT SUNDAY RESULTS
LIMITED WRANGLER, Nathaniel Hewitt
OPEN WRANGLER, Raielon Evans
RES. SR. COWGIRL, Carrie Wilburn
RES. SENIOR COWBOY, Tim Calvin
RES. COWBOY, JD Hughes
RES. COWGIRL, Renee Calvin
OVERALL COWGIRL, Chrissy Ramsey
OVERALL OVERALL, Tyler Vrh
We also celebrated a couple move ups, Hannah Howard from L1 to L2 and Jimmy Stimmel from SM1 to SM2—look for dance videos on Facebook!
As always, if you are interested in joining the Mid-Ohio Marauders, the central Ohio
enough for the sacrifice of His Son on the cross to remove our sins and open the doorways of Heaven to those willing to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. I pray you already have or soon will. Also praise Him for allowing us to live in the greatest country on this planet. We will have just celebrated our country’s
club for CMSA, please visit us at Midohiomarauders.com or on Facebook at Mid-Ohio Marauders. See you soon!
AUG. 22-24: Marauders Club Shoot at Madison County
SEPT. 19-21: Marauders Club Shoot at Madison County
independence when this issue hits your mailbox! God bless you all!
The Corzatt family owns and operates the Cowboy Perseverance Ranch (CPR) in Marengo, Ohio. CPR is a faith based operation and our mission is to build a strong foundation and relationship with our training horses and students.
We are blessed to be able to provide western horsemanship lessons infused with biblical scripture to students of all ages. One student has described her time here as “CPR for the soul!” Visit our website at www.cpranch. wixsite.com/home or follow us on Facebook.
JD Hughes, Chrissy Ramsey, Tyler Vrh and Renee Calvin.
Blazin Balloons Wranglers
Black Swamp Driving Club
PRESIDENT, Julie Emmons
VICE PRESIDENT, Roger Higgins, Jr. TREASURER/SECRETARY, Susan Murray CORRAL REPORTER, Sharon Hayhurst FACEBOOK, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/121257701223196
Spring ended with so much rain then summer hit with extreme heat.
CLUB MEMBERS UPDATE
The Hayhurst’s have been working Phineas into the saddle again as he has been a driving horse in central park New York city for many years. Once under saddle they never seem to forget. He is adjusting to the difference
What a Summer
and seems to be enjoying the extra attention and especially the extra carrots!
Dale Owens is going through health challenges; sending him prayers of comfort and health in his trials!
Tyler, shown in the photo in this article, qualified with his
Haflinger for the Ohio State driving competition. We wish him all the best! If you are there please cheer him on.
SEPTEMBER TBD: Two day, one night, camp out at Emmons. Night potluck dinner with s’mores. This event was moved from June due to events causing
a location conflict. Contact Julie for further details at the email address given below.
OCTOBER 4: Emmons potluck at Parker Covered Bridge, Upper Sandusky, noon
OCTOBER 25: Emmons Halloween drive and potluck at France Lake, Kenton, noon
NOVEMBER 8: Christmas banquet at Good Hope Lutheran Church, 300 S. Main Street, Arlington, Ohio at 4:30 p.m. Bring a few dishes to share. Starting with one hour of social gathering time. Please note the corrected time!
Best wishes to all in their summer activities and prayers for those caught in disaster areas. If you have any questions please email them to President Julie Emmons, whiterosepercherons@ icloud.com
Buckeye Equestrian Association Enjoying Rodeos and Mini Trials this Summer
PRESIDENT, Patricia Andio
VICE PRESIDENT, Susan Smith-Gordan SECRETARY, Jennifer Milliner
TREASURER, Sally Kish
FACEBOOK, Buckeye Equestrian Association
This July 4th was the weekend for horse events. Lots of rodeos and Hackamore Farm’s Annual Mini Trial. I have included one of my favorite pictures of the Hoppel Rodeo. I love seeing all the rope horses lined up standing quietly waiting for their event. The rodeo was really well attended. Lots of great horses and exciting events.
The Mini Trial was also well attended. The event included Dressage, Cross Country and Stadium Jumping. I have included some pictures of the
clever Cross Country fences that owners Jennifer and William Milliner have designed and built. It was hot but all the exhibitors really enjoyed the day. If you missed it there will be a Halloween Combined Test event on October 4 when the beautiful farm will be decorated for the Halloween season. You can find information at their website, www.hackamorefarm.com
For the love of horses and riders.
~Sally Kish
Western Dressage Understanding the Concept of “Forward” in Western Dressage
by Kelley Bitter
Let’s set the scene: It’s a brisk October morning at Eagles Nest Performance Center. Sarah, bundled in her favorite old vest and grinning at her own one-liners, is warming up her Paint gelding, Jasper—a horse with the personality of a comedian and the ambition of a turtle. As Sarah puts it, Jasper prefers to “let the world come to him, one slow jog at a time.” Their rehearsal for the next Western Dressage show has begun.
Sarah knows the key to a great ride isn’t speed—it’s that magic ingredient called ‘forward’. She cues Jasper with a patient seat, a gentle squeeze, and the world’s quietest cluck. Today, after a few halfhearted steps, Jasper finally answers. He reaches under himself, lifts through his back, and suddenly there’s a new zing in his stride. Their work sings with purpose. That is ‘forward’ in Western Dressage—a feeling as clear as autumn air.
But what exactly does ‘forward’ mean, and how can riders like Sarah achieve it consistently? Western Dressage is a discipline that blends the precision of classical dressage with the relaxed, flowing gaits of western riding. Forward movement is the foundation of this discipline, creating harmony, balance, and energy between horse and rider. Let’s dive deeper into what forward means, why it’s essential, how judges evaluate it, and the practical steps you can take to improve it.
What Does ‘Forward’ Mean in Western Dressage?
In Western Dressage, ‘forward’ isn’t just about speed. It’s about intent, balance, and engagement. A forward-moving horse steps
decisively from its hindquarters, carrying itself with energy and purpose while staying soft, relaxed, and attentive to the rider. This isn’t a rushed or frantic movement—it’s powerful yet controlled, with the horse working in harmony with the rider’s aids.
Think of forward as a mindset for the horse. It’s about being motivated and willing to move, showing energy that originates from behind and flows through the whole body. At the walk, ‘forward’ looks like purposeful, marching steps, with the hind legs stepping well under the horse’s belly and the back swinging freely. At the jog, the horse should move with a soft, rhythmic cadence, avoiding stiffness or sluggishness. At the lope, forward feels like riding a rolling wave— smooth, balanced, and elastic, with no rushing or dragging.
Forward is the opposite of resistance, hesitation, or laziness. It’s about the horse saying, “I’m ready—let’s go!” without the rider having to nag or chase. The key is balance: the horse should move freely forward without falling onto the forehand or losing rhythm and suppleness. Achieving this balance requires consistent communication between horse and rider, as well as a clear understanding of the aids.
Why Is Forward Movement Essential?
Without forward movement, everything in Western dressage falls apart. Imagine trying to turn a flat tire—you’ll get nowhere fast. The same is true in dressage. Forwardness is what makes everything else possible. It gives rhythm to the gaits, creates suppleness in the horse’s body, and establishes the connection and engagement needed for more advanced movements.
Forward movement is critical in transitions. A horse that lacks forwardness will struggle with upward transitions, often dragging its feet or losing rhythm. Downward transitions can become abrupt or unbalanced, with the horse falling onto its forehand instead of stepping under itself to maintain balance. Forward is what makes transitions smooth, fluid, and purposeful.
For Sarah and Jasper, the difference was night and day. When they first started dressage, their rides felt like a series of disconnected movements. Jasper’s transitions were slow and sticky, his gaits lacked energy, and their scores reflected it: Needs more energy, Lacking rhythm, and Hindquarters not engaged—popped up again and again in the comments. But once Sarah focused on developing forward movement, everything changed. Their transitions became sharp and precise, their gaits gained a lively rhythm, and their scores improved dramatically. The only variable? Jasper’s willingness to move meaningfully from his hindquarters.
What Do Judges Look For?
Judges in Western Dressage are trained to recognize forward movement as the foundation of every test. They’re not just looking for flashy gaits or fancy movements—they want to see a horse that moves confidently, with energy and balance.
At the halt, the horse should appear ready to move off at the rider’s cue, standing square and attentive. At the walk, judges look for purposeful steps with a clear, marching rhythm, the hind legs stepping well under the horse’s belly. The jog should be relaxed and rhythmic, with the horse’s back softly swinging and the rider sitting quietly. The lope should be smooth and elastic, with the horse moving freely forward while maintaining balance and control.
Judges also pay close attention to transitions. A forward-moving horse will transition smoothly and promptly, without resistance or hesitation. Whether moving upward or downward, the horse should maintain rhythm and balance, showing engagement from behind. Judges reward rides where forwardness is evident throughout the test, creating a sense of flow and harmony between horse and rider.
Premier Mount N Trail
PRESIDENT, Kelly Chapman
VICE PRESIDENT, Stephanie Tarr
SECRETARY, Justin Miller
TREASURER, Susan Croft
EMAIL, premiermountntrail@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.premiermountntrail.com
The late summer season is heating up, and we couldn’t be more excited! Whether your chasing points, trying something new with your horse, or just looking for a fun day with your equine partner, there is an event coming up for you!
Coming up in August, we have events at Phoenix on Killian, August 2-3, Holland Western
Western Dressage
Summer Show Fun
Horse Park, on August 9-10, and KAL-VAL on August 17.
In September our shows include, Phoenix on Killian September 6-7, Jagged Ridge September 13-14, and KALVAL on September 28. We hope you are able to join us for one or more of these great competitions. Follow us on
(continued from page 48)
Practical Exercises to Improve Forward Movement
Building forward movement takes time and consistent practice, especially for horses like Jasper who would rather take it slow. Here are some practical exercises to help your horse develop forwardness and maintain it throughout your ride:
1. Frequent, Crisp Transitions. Transitions are the building blocks of forward movement. Practice moving frequently between walk, jog, and lope, focusing on sharp, prompt responses to your aids. Start with simple walk–jog–walk transitions, then progress to jog–lope–jog. If your horse doesn’t respond promptly, reinforce your aid with a firmer cue, but avoid nagging. Reward any forward response immediately with a pat or a kind word.
2. Ground Poles and Cavaletti. Ground poles are a great way to encourage your horse to use its hindquarters and lift its back. Set up four to six poles in a straight line or gentle curve. Walk and jog over them, focusing on maintaining an active, forward stride. For more challenge, adjust the distances between the poles to ask your horse to lengthen or shorten its stride.
3. Serpentines, Figures, and Bending Patterns. Riding serpentines, figure eights, and circles can help unlock stiffness and encourage your horse to reach forward into each stride. Mix up the direction and size of your patterns to keep your horse engaged. To add variety, incorporate transitions on the straight sections or after each loop.
4. Extension and Collection on the Circle. On a 20-meter circle, practice alternating between extending and collecting the jog. Ask
Facebook for updates, photos, and the latest PMT happenings!
your horse to take longer, more ground-covering strides for a few steps, then bring it back to a shorter, more collected stride. This exercise helps your horse develop strength and balance, teaching it to push off from behind while maintaining rhythm and control.
5. Hill Work. If you have access to hills, use them to your advantage. Walking and jogging uphill strengthens the hindquarters and encourages your horse to push forward. Let your horse maintain a steady, active pace going up, then allow it to recover on the way down. Incorporate hill work into your routine to build strength and forwardness over time.
6. Video Review. Recording your rides can provide valuable insights into your horse’s movement. Watch for signs of forwardness, such as the hind legs stepping under and a consistent rhythm. You may notice areas where your cues could be clearer or where your horse is not fully engaging.
7. Reward Effort. Forward movement isn’t just about speed—it’s about responsiveness and intent. Pay close attention to your horse’s efforts, and reward even small improvements. When your horse offers a more energetic stride or responds promptly to your aids, let it know with a pat, a kind word, or a release of pressure.
Final Reflections
Forward in Western Dressage is the heartbeat of every ride. It’s what transforms mechanical movements into a story of partnership and harmony. For Sarah and Jasper, forward is a journey—some days are smooth and effortless, while others require patience and creativity. But every step, every cue, and every small victory brings them closer to that perfect feeling of connection.
So the next time your horse seems stuck in neutral, remember: Forward isn’t built in a day. It’s a process, a conversation, and a commitment to progress. With practice, consistency, and a little humor, you and your horse can move forward—one stride at a time..
Stuck in your Western Dressage progress? Eagles Nest Performance Center offers riding lessons to help you advance, paired with Harmony in Stride’s Meditation Sessions and mental performance coaching to strengthen your focus. Connect with us on Facebook or at www. eaglesnestequestrian.com to get started!
Looking to improve your horse’s self-carriage? Eagles Nest Equestrian has open lesson times for both private and group sessions! Take the next step in your training journey today. Message us at eaglesnestequestrian@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page: Eagles Nest Equestrian Performance.
TREASURER Margaret Hite 740/407-6986 treasurer@ohconline.com
Greetings From Your President
Now is the perfect time for chapters to start planning their trail maintenance efforts for next year. Your role is crucial, especially after the heavy rains we’ve experienced, in providing ideas and plans to reroute water that impacts the trail, such as with a turnpike, platform, or other method. There are no bad ideas when it comes to improving Ohio’s bridle trails, as a rider or maintenance volunteer, your input and knowledge of the trail are what make Ohio’s trails better. The Ohio Horseman’s Council (OHC) wants to provide financial support for your trail needs from the OHC Grant Awards program. The application form is readily available at ohconline.com/documents under
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ASHTABULA
That’s a wrap! We finished our three show buckle series after a double header horse show weekend. It was hot. However, everyone made the best of it and the turnout was fantastic. This year we have been having a harder time when it comes to having members volunteer time to make these shows possible. We had to reach out to participants and their families to come along side us and help out. In the end it was definitely successful. Special thanks to all who helped make it happen. You know who you are. We also had some extremely generous sponsors who made sure almost everyone who rode or participated left with a prize! Sam and Kellie Rettinger of Whispery Pines Percherons donated a huge supple of Cowboy Magic products to give out. Kim Tyler of Grit N Grace Apparel donated over 25 custom made ACHOC show series T-shirts to give out for every class. Brenda Fisher Mclaughlin owner of Dusty Lane
the ‘Grant Applications’ category at the top of the page. As long as chapters fill out the form, obtain the signature of the land manager, and submit it to Bobbi Arters by November 1, they can receive some financial help for their local trails to be used in 2026. Better yet, with the efforts of an NW region quilt raffle and SE baked goods auction this year, we’ll have a bit more money beyond the $8250 to award! For the 2026 awards, at least one chapter in each of the five regions may receive $750, and multiple chapters could receive a share of up to $5,000 in matching funds as an award.
Improvements made in 2025, resulting from grant money awards, include: $750 regional
Photography was also on scene taking wonderful photos. She donated multiple gift cards that we handed out in a few very fun ‘cake walk’ classes. Thanks to all of our sponsors and all who came to ride with us making the 2025 show series another success. Stick around to see what we have planned next. If you ever want to learn more about who we are and what we do please reach out to us. Our
PRESIDENT Mary Alice Kuhn 330/413-6589 president@ohconline.com
grants to each chapter: SEMeigs—AEP Southern Ohio Recreational Area, NE-Portage— West Branch State Park, NWErie—Edison Woods, SW-Ross, Tar Hollow State Forest, CENLicking-Dillon State Park. Due to the NW’s fundraising efforts in 2024, an additional $1,500 in matching funds was awarded for 2025 projects, creating a total of $6,500 for the following chapters: CEN-Clark—Buck Creek State Park ($1,000), SWPreble—Hueston Woods State Park ($1,500), NE-Stark—Camp Tuscazoar ($1,000), and NWWood—Van Buren State Park ($3,000).
If you ride any of the trails in Ohio and you’re not an OHC member, would you
VICE PRESIDENT Nancy Strayer 740/694-1007 vicepresident@ohconline.com
OHC COUNTY LINES EDITOR Kirstie Seeger 937/974-3345 countylineeditor@ohconline.com
consider joining? An individual membership is only $25, and a significant portion of it goes towards funding OHC goals, such as grant money awards. As a member, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other riders and contribute to the preservation of Ohio’s bridle trails, as well as support local efforts through county chapters, or as an At Large member with no chapter affiliation. Connect with the Ohio Horseman’s Council at ohconline.com to learn more and join a unique organization advocating for riders of all ages, riding disciplines, and equine breeds.
~Mary Alice Kuhn
Facebook page is a fantastic way to contact us. Just search Ohio Horseman’s Council Ashtabula Chapter. Another option is to attend a meeting. We have our meetings on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. We really hope you will join us! Make hay while the sun shines.
~Kat
AUGLAIZE
Hello all of our loyal supporters!
We are now continuing our fair week for Auglaize County! This involves celebrating our equine queen coronation, musical freestyle, scholarships awards including the crowning of the queen, open pleasure show and our state fair recognition, which happened on July 7. It is a great way to start off the fair and really support all the hard work that the kids have shown throughout the year, especially the queen contestants, who prepared for the queen competition on July 13
Ashtabula County OHC
Ashtabula County OHC
Olivia Herron interviewing Roger Kelsey.
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with their horses and speeches. We are so proud!
Additionally, one of our very own junior ambassadors, Olivia Herron, interviewed Roger Kelsey, an equine dentist. It was exciting to hear about her great opportunity to talk to him about his profession as it truly is so remarkable. One example of his job is that he can identify their eating habits just by examining the state of their teeth. From there, he can determine what is best for them going forward. Furthermore, our Denim and T show for pleasure and speed went remarkably well and the kids had a blast. I thought it was great practice for both our county fair and state fair. On the flip side, the gymkhana show was rained out and was rescheduled for the next week. Due to this we didn’t get the turn out we thought we would have, but the show was successful in raising funds for the OHC and kids.
Getting back to this month, we will be hosting an Ohio Horseman’s Council speed show on August 2 and will be participating in the St. Mary’s summer fest parade on August 9. The times can be further viewed on our Facebook page called Auglaize County Ohio Horseman’s Council Inc. in addition to other events and details. Lastly, we will be hosting another Denim and T show on September 13 and will be participating in the Oktoberfest parade on October 5. Thanks so much again to all of our loyal supporters!
~ Veronica Mertz
CLARK
It had been a very rainy start to summer but Clark County
members have been busy. Some of us attended the Women, Chocolate and Horses weekend in June at Elkins Creek. The trails were overall in good shape for the amount of rain that had fallen. Rick and Jill do an excellent job of maintaining the many miles of trails. There were lots of planned activities which included a potluck, a bracelet making opportunity, games and a chance to meet and make new friends. A massage therapist was on site for massages which I highly recommend, a vet for questions and chiropractic work as well as Kings Daughter Medical Center for human health questions. The unfortunate part of the weekend was when Anne Hunter had an unplanned dismount. The emergency responders were excellent as well as help from Rick. Anne wound up with a broken collar bone and recently had it repaired in surgery. A junior ambassador named Zane Scott came to the rescue to help with Anne and Smoke’s stall. He offered to help clean and strip the stall while needed and his assistance was greatly appreciated. Hats off to the junior ambassador program and a very polite young man. On another adventure we were able to visit Van Buren State Park and the new campground. It also happened to be the Paint Horse Association ride that weekend. The campground is very clean and easy to park. Some of the spots have pipe stalls and others have high lines. Most have shade at some point during the day. There is a camp host, a place to purchase ice or firewood and a pit toilet. It is adjacent to
the people campground which is sometimes used for bigger equestrian events. We went to the Paint Horse potluck for some delicious food and bingo. The trails are very nice and shaded with lots of twist and turns and interesting terrain. I will definitely return.
Clark County’s next adventure is our fall campout where we have lots of fun activities planned. The next meeting is scheduled for August 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Buck Creek Shelter house. Come ride with Clark County!
~Jonna Ledyard
CUYAHOGA
Hooves on so many trails. It is like someone left the gate open and we are free to fly. If you are new to a chapter of Ohio Horseman’s Council you now know of all the wonderful opportunities that are presenting themselves. Trail rides, horse shows, educational and social meetings. A new group of friendly people who have welcomed you warmly and are ready to help in any way needed. If you attend chapter, regional or state meetings your world opens up even more. If you want to be involved you soon will have friends to count on all over the State of Ohio and even beyond. So don’t be shy! Step right up and offer your talents as there is always work to be done and other new people to greet, refreshments to organize or trail rides to plan. We hope you have a great time this summer and if you have not yet joined a chapter it is not too late. Go to ohconline.com, find a chapter and come aboard. You do not have to live in the county you join and most chapters network with neighboring chapters sharing talents.
If you ride trails, we all ask you respect other users and greet them with a smile and friendly word. Stay on the trail and be an advocate for the equine community.
Our Cuyahoga Chapter holds rides often and always lists other area rides and activities you may enjoy; cow sorting, dressage clinics, picnics, horse shows, and camping events.
Join us at the Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field September 26-28 for a weekend stay-over event at the beautiful Polo Field in the South Chagrin Reservation of the park. Even if you have never camped, join us and there will be many people willing to
show you around and help you with your questions. Several meals will be supplied, a live auction, a $5 table of priceless goods, line dancing to participate in or just enjoy watching and lots of people to ride with. There is electric and water on the grounds as well as a good number of hi lines that are first come. Round pens or electric corrals allowed. Check on Facebook for a flyer or call Joani at 330/730-4652 for more information.
Hoping I have given you a good idea of what we are all about. Plus, you get a copy of the Horsemen’s Corral magazine that will open another whole world of horses to you. Ohconline.com is well worth looking over. Ride on!
~Penny
DELAWARE
Greetings from your friends in the Delaware Chapter! When deciding on your next location to ride, we hope fellow equestrians will plan a visit to our home park, Alum Creek State Park. Four distinct bridle trails totaling close to 40 miles await your enjoyment. Features range from traversing platforms and ravine water crossings, riding through a tunnel, passing through wooded and open meadow and lakeside beach access. Rest stops on each of the bridle trails welcome riders and their horses to stop and take in the beauty of nature. Our dedicated trail maintenance crew, led by Bobbi Arters, meet once a week, weather allowing, to tackle various goals such as clearing downed trees, trimming away undergrowth, replacing and/or repairing platforms, and creating re-routes to avoid muddy areas just to name a few. Recently, the ODNR completed a redesign of the Alum Creek Horseman’s campground located on Howard Road. Numbered camp sites with gravel pads have been created, each with its own campfire ring and picnic table. Highlines are available and numbered to correspond with the sites. Folks planning to horse camp are encouraged to review the campground layout and choose their sites carefully. Owners of large trailers may find it challenging to maneuver into certain sites. Go to our Facebook page, Delaware Chapter, Ohio Horseman’s Council, to review pictures of the campground and numbered sites. (I have included
Night at the races.
Clark County OHC
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one picture in this column). Any questions about the campground changes should be directed to ODNR and Alum Creek Park Manager, Jason Meyers. At the time this article was submitted, our club’s MidSummer Pizza Party at Henmick Farm and Brewery had not yet occurred. I hope to share some highlights of our gathering in next month’s column.
A big thank you to our June meeting guest speakers, Debra Mastellone and Karri Wilson Bruskotter, DVM, who shared their knowledge and experience in a very informative and entertaining presentation on the sport of endurance riding.
This month’s meeting will be held on Friday, August 1 beginning at 7 p.m. Weather permitting, we will meet at Alum Creek Horsemen’s campground to listen and watch while Jamie Rains demonstrates techniques of Jin Shin Jyutsu for animals on an equine volunteer. Bring a lawn chair. Please watch our chapter’s Facebook page for updates on a possible change in venue. In case of bad weather, Ms. Rains’ presentation will be moved to our usual meeting location, Kilbourne United Methodist Church on SR 521. Light refreshments and a short business meeting will follow the presentation. Family and friends are always welcome.
We look forward to our annual ‘Autumn at Alum’ festivities scheduled for Friday, September 5. Come and enjoy riding at Alum Creek and join us for our famous potluck and dessert buffet beginning at 6 p.m. Live musical entertainment, together with both a live and silent auction, will be
some of the fun awaiting our guests. This is our chapter’s main fundraiser with proceeds going towards bridle trail maintenance projects at Alum Creek. If you wish to camp for the weekend, reservations are necessary and can be obtained via the website, Reserveohio.com.
Mark your calendars to attend the Delaware All Horse Parade, scheduled for Sunday September 7 beginning at 3 p.m. Members of OHC, including several from our own chapter, will be taking part in the parade. A fun and relaxing potluck is planned immediately following the parade at the fairgrounds. Come and enjoy fun and fellowship with your OHC friends before heading home.
Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable August!
P.S. Waiting to hear all about member, Pat O’Connell’s birthday celebration in St. Lucia!
~Theresa Burke
ERIE
Greetings from Erie County! Summer is here and it is August already. We have been busy getting ready for our annual poker ride on September 6! It will be held at Edison Woods Metro Park in Berlin Heights. Come ride the beautiful trails of Edison Woods. This event starts at 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. A great lunch will follow from 12-2 p.m. Registration and parking will be at the Smokey Road trail head. Check out our ad in the Corral! See you there! After planting the beautiful pollinator garden up on Mason Road, the park asked us to plant another down on Smokey Road. Thanks to donations of great plants from members and Mulberry Creek Herb Farm, we have another pollinator garden! While some of us were planting,
mulching and finishing it up, another crew started clearing out where the new high lines will be. A lot of vines and heavy brush had to be removed. I will post pictures when it is done. Or come to the poker ride and check it out!
Our club had scheduled to go down to Elkins Creek Horse Camp in June. This campout was rescheduled for October. Jill from Elkins Creek canceled because of extreme high temperatures. Safety is always a consideration when hauling or riding your horses. Degrees over 95 and 100 closed the camp on that weekend.
We have been picking and choosing early morning rides. Some at Edison Woods and other places to beat the heat. August has campouts scheduled at Barkcamp, Alum Creek, and Edison Woods. We hope lower temperatures hold out. Life is better on the trail!
~Shelley Hayes
FAIRFIELD
I started writing this article the first part of June when it was still raining just about every day except for three days that gave all the hay makers time to get mowing and making. I am now writing the finished article, and it is the last part of June and hotter than you know where. Another reason for waiting is I have not heard about what members have been up to. I do know the McGuire Klan and friends went to Eminence, Mo., to the big ride held there. Having gone there many years in the past, I was excited for them and hoped they had a good time. I did hear they had a good time. I have not heard about what other members have been doing. I did get to ride with Pike at their regional ride, where I am a secondary member, and camp. Needless to say, it was hot. But if you head out before eight you could get a couple of hours in.
In case you have not heard the news yet about Hocking, starting the first of September you now have to make reservations. There is no cost to electric site and still free plus, you can only make reservations 90 days in advance. I can’t think of or have anything else to write about except to mention the big state ride we have on September 4 at Scioto Trails. Check out our flyer on state OHC website and you will get all the information. I want to finish out this article with the picture I mentioned that didn’t show up in the June news. I want our cowboy poet to be recognized.
~Anita Hoon
FULTON
The sweltering days of summer hit hard and fast in June and prevailed through July, making us all anxious for the temperate days of fall! The diehards were getting up at the crack of dawn to
Alum Creek horse campgrounds.
Deb Mastellone explaining endurance riding.
Pat O’Connell celebrating his birthday in St. Lucia.
Trimming, Erie County OHC
New garden.
Morning ride.
Cowboy poet.
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ride when it was cooler. I wish I were a morning person.
July started off with our picnic potluck/dessert contest chapter meeting on July 1 at Reed Road Ranglers. Thirty-seven members attended. Members reported camping trips in June to Pleasant Hill Lake, Waterloo, Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois and, of course, Reed Road. A few members attended the poker run at White Star and there were day rides at Van Buren. There were rumors various members would be going to some of these same places in July. We are looking forward to our chapter trip to Mohican August 8-10. There were a couple of spots left which we will be offering to friends and family. At the meeting, we worked on plans for our Cowboy Christmas tack swap which, due to venue circumstances beyond our control, had to be changed to November 30. We also briefly discussed our post-Christmas party in January of 2026 as the rental for the park hall we’ve used has gone up significantly and it may be necessary and prudent to find a different venue for that. We also discussed a project to donate stone to Oak Openings Metro park to fix some of the muddy spots on the horse trails. We’re also trying to arrange some volunteer time cleaning up the trails at Oak Openings or the Maumee State Forest.
The results of the 2025 baking contest were: 1. Bonnie Williams, rhubarb pie; 2. Michelle Miller (West Unity), coconut pie; 3.
Deb Vaughan, turtle cake. All of the desserts were fabulous.
Our next chapter meeting planned is during our chili cookoff camping weekend at Reed Road, August 15-17. The meeting will be on August 16 at 7 p.m. Our chapter meetings are usually the first Tuesday of the month and will be at Reed Road Ranglers from May through October. Our website www.fcohc.com, our Facebook group Fulton County OHC and our Facebook page Fulton County Ohio Horsemans Council can reveal what we’re up to in real time. Be safe, we hope to see you on the trails!
~Kathy Brown
GREENE
Summer is really going fast! It has been hot and muggy which makes it hard to ride and be comfortable. Please take care of yourself and your equines during the heat and humidity. We try to ride in the early morning before it gets too hot.
We have some good photos from the Greene County OHC State Ride, where you can see Mickie Newnam singing Karaoke, Jerry Smith and others enjoying the shade, and several riders out and about on the trails. Many fairs have occurred during
the summer months and many of our Jr. Ambassadors have participated in various fairs in several counties throughout Ohio. Way to go, Jr. Ambassadors and other fair participants. Cleanup days at Caesar Ford Park have been difficult to schedule, due to all the rain, wind, heat, and humidity we have had the past few months. Cleanup is a continuous process, and we strive to keep our trails in good condition for all equines and their partners. Our trail crew is amazing.
Many OHC members joined the Virtual Tevis to ride 100 miles in 100 days with the same horse same rider. This was a fun way to compete with your fellow riders and equines; 29 OHC members joined in the Virtual Tevis. Some of us rode at Elkins Creek to celebrate with fellow riders and their equines who successfully completed the Virtual Tevis.
Supporting an OHC club ensures we have equine trails for the riders of the future. We welcome our new members to our club. We also have many young participants in the Ohio Jr. Ambassador club. This is a wonderful opportunity for the youth of our group and others in the Ohio Horseman’s Council. Please consider joining a local chapter as a main member or secondary member. Happy trails and let’s get out and ride.
~Cindra Phillips
GUERNSEY
Howdy folks! I hope you’re finding time to ride between the rain drops and the heatwaves! None of us in my area have all our first cutting hay done. We’ll have to see if the weatherman adds a fourth day tomorrow morning! A lot of riders have been taking advantage of the trails at Salt Fork State Park. Sharon and her awesome horse Willow rode the Orange Trail mid-June. That’s Willow silhouetting the lake. That picture is a wall hanger, if there ever was one! About the same time, Betsy and two of her best friends arrived at Salt Fork to head out on the trails. Just look at them ears! Not to be left out, Billie got some between-theears time at 10 Horse Cave! Here’s the benefit of our page: Salt Fork Bridle Trails, on Facebook. Karen B. came to camp and noticed a loose tieline post. She reported it on the page. Shortly thereafter Don and Troy replaced it. Several riders reported some bad trees down on the Orange Trail and the park sent Bob Meeks out to fix the problem. Not long after that another bad storm made an absolute mess of the Red Trail. Bob and his faithful Bobcat headed out once again to fix the problem and this was a big one. The Lone Ranger rode Silver, Bob rides the Bobcat! We have not managed to get the tie-line finished at the Lewis home on the White Trail – B Loop. That’s the new picnic area at the three-mile marker. Hopefully we will get it done soon along with the commemorative plaque that will be erected at the site of the old home.
I’m still laid up from three falls this winter. I’ve only slept all the way through one night since the first week in January and that was when we went to Iron
Bonnie Williams
Rod and Michelle at Shawnee.
Cheryl trimming on the trail.
OHC Virtual Tevis swag.
Two trail riders at Greene County state ride.
Elizabeth and Lucy at Greene County state ride.
Billie
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Mountain Horses Camp, last month. The medical community is still checking boxes and not working on my right shoulder. It’s driving me wild! I’m hoping it’s better in a few weeks, when Darla, Lynn, Bob and I make a swing through Zaleski State Forest, Moonville Tunnel, Pike Lake and Great Seal. Well, at least that’s the plan!
Dee Dee and I hope to see you on the trail!
~Lee Randolph
HAMILTON
Brace yourself, smoking hot August is here! As a club, we generally use the broiler month of August to look forward and plan fall events. We spook at August rides! Knowing this, let’s recap last month’s events.
Club members said they wanted more organized trail cleanup and boy did our members deliver! In celebration of National Trails Day, Great Parks of Hamilton County invited Hamilton County OHC members to join Great Parks staff in a trail cleanup to improve Miami Whitewater Forest’s wooded horse trail shelter area, outhouses and horse trail A. Twenty-three beautiful HC-OHC volunteers showed up and worked side by side with Great Parks staff members for a full morning of work. Total work completed included: planting 12 trees; removing 2,000 square feet of shelter area invasives; building 12 water diverting trail swales; staining four tables; painting two structures; and the cutting, clearing and removal of invasive brush encroaching on
2,640 feet of horse trail A. To cap off the brilliant day, Great Parks provided everyone with a pizza lunch. Many thanks go to the HC-OHC volunteers: Mary Kay Avery, Steve Bleser, Pam Crouch, Michele DeVoe, Julianne Dills, Jennifer Drennan, Ann and Mike Frederick, Jennifer Kahmann, Julie and Kathy Kluesener, Diane and Jessie Kreimer, Marilyn Murphy, June Reynolds, Amanda, Emma and Liam Schultz, Lisa Sierra, and Dick and Sarah Stuart. Great Parks staff members include: Donna Boughner, Jaimie Martin, Kate McConnell, Joe Von Allmen, and two Great Parks volunteers whose names I did not catch. Sorry guys! We look forward to more trail cleanup for 2025.
HC-OHC’s first moonlight ride of the year was cancelled due to rain. Cancelling was probably a good thing, and not because of the rain. Our first moonlight ride was scheduled on the same day (but evening) as the above National Trails Day cleanup morning. Cancelling saved we slow moving members the awful embarrassment of trying to ride our horses that evening. Our second moonlight ride of the year was held on a blistering hot evening enjoyed by three riders: Ann and Mike Frederick with Lisa Wynn. We started our nice ride on the shaded portion of the Miami Whitewater Forest Shaker Trace Trail, stopped when we lost the shade, turned around, and rode back exactly the same way we had ridden out. We figured, this ride should count, at minimum, as a 100-mile trail ride. It was that hot. Many thanks go to Great Parks of Hamilton County for allowing us access to Miami Whitewater Forest Shaker Trace Trail after dark.
Our second parade of the year, the Harrison Fourth of July Parade, we enacted HC-OHC’s newly voted in parade parameters and rolled out HC-OHC’s first Color Guard division—a flag carrying equestrian parade team. The team looked pretty snappy in red shirts, blue jeans, and decorated horses carrying USA flags. Big thank you go to riders: Ronda Austing; Steve Bleser; Amy Brockman; Ann and Kristin Frederick; plus, Dick and Sarah Stuart for bringing your beautiful horses, and parade division ambassador Mike Frederick for passing out candy to the crowd. Special thanks go to Eric and Sunnie Hoffroggee for allowing HC-OHC to hook up with your ‘Top Hands’ parade division and use your manure cleanup crew. It’s not too often one can see about 40 horses, under saddle, riding in two-by-two formation, walking down Main Street of downtown Harrison.
Lastly, Grace Hobbie is the lucky winner of the HC-OHC’s family ticket to Hamilton County Farm Bureau’s 19th annual day at the fair being held at Stricker’s Grove. Grace will receive free admission for a family of six to enjoy unlimited rides, free ice cream, 4H animal displays and the Ohio Cowboy Mounted Shooting show. Congratulations Grace! We hope you and your family have a wonderful time.
It’s good to be a member of Hamilton County OHC! Please come join us at our future events: Shaker Trace Moonlight Rides Saturday nights August 9 and September 6; Regularly scheduled monthly club meeting at Crosby Township Community Center, August 13 and September 10.
To find out more about HCOHC and access our membership application link, please go to ohconline.com, ‘find chapter’and type in ‘Hamilton County’ in the search bar. You can also follow us on Facebook at ‘Ohio Horseman’s Council Hamilton County Chapter’
~Ann Frederick
HARRISON
Hello OHC, I hope everyone is enjoying their summer! We had an amazing Regional Ride in June at Harrison State Forest. Over 20 OHC members plus additional family and guests attended despite the stormy forecast. The storms held off, thank the Lord, and we only had a couple of short showers. Trail conditions were good and everyone had nice rides. Faye’s Scavenger Hunt was a success, and everyone had a lot of fun solving the riddles. Earnings from the scavenger hunt as well as the raffles totaled over $1000, which will more than replenish our scholarship fund as well as cover club ride and trail expenses. A big thank you to all who participated and donated! We really had some nice items in the raffle. Congratulations to all the winners. I was happy our President Mark Westlake won the showcase raffle. He puts a lot of work into the club and trail maintenance at Harrison State Forest, so it was well deserved. My 7-year-old grandson had a ball running around with the other kids all weekend. He actually held my friend’s horse for a few minutes which was a big step for him as he struggles to overcome his fear of horses. A special thank you to Cindy Schrader and her family for all the kids activities and prizes. My grandson loved his pool noodle horse and slept with it all weekend. I also want to thank Bill Pugh for hosting the kids fishing tournament. While they didn’t catch much, he made it fun and did an awesome fishing awards presentation for them. We had plenty of good food all weekend thanks to all the great cooks. Janice Moreland with her homemade cobbler—one look at that and my store bought one stayed in the camper! Lori
Betsy
Sharon Headley and Willow.
Harrison 4th of July parade.
Moonlight ride with Ann, Mike, and Lisa Wynn.
MWF National Trails day. Fishing awards.
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Mayher sent an apple dessert and tons of ice cream even though she couldn’t attend because her mom was in the hospital. Good news is her mother is doing better! Mark with his egg in the bag breakfast on Saturday and Bill Schrader with his pancakes on Sunday. Bob Glover with his coffee that only he can make. Lots of yummy dishes supplied by everyone to go with our fried chicken for Saturday dinner. Dusty Carpenter played and sang well into the night as we enjoyed the campfire. The kids were too busy to make s’mores, but we did cook hotdogs on the fire. Thank you Bob Jenkins for all the firewood! Cherri Pugh did a wonderful job with cowboy church on Sunday which was enjoyed by all. A creative way to remember the Ten Commandments for sure! All in all, a great weekend thanks to all our awesome club members. Some of our club members took off to Hocking Hills the very next weekend. They had fun playing and riding in the creeks with their horses due to the hot weather. They experienced some muddy trails but loved the beautiful scenery. My horse and I are not currently ready for trails like that, but I always enjoy my horse time however I get it. Reach out if you need a trail riding buddy, we will try to hook you up. New members always welcome. May you all continue to enjoy your horses!
~Sherrie Hart
HOLMES
Welcome to August. We hope everyone is dealing with the heat as best they can and getting some early or late in the day rides in. The June rains we had are now drying up. There should be some good hay being made.
Our club has been ordering Holmes County OHC T-shirts and planning the Labor Day Camp at Mohican. There will be a raffle at that camp. We will be raffling a manure basket and caddy, and a mounting block. Winner need not be present. Tickets can be bought from any Holmes County OHC officer. Numbers are listed on the Ohio Horseman’s Council website under Holmes County. This is a club fundraiser. Aside from expenses, the club supports Holmes County 4H and Mohican trail maintenance.
We are currently camping at the well-attended regional camp at Mohican over the Fourth of July holiday. Thank you to Wayne County OHC for such a well-organized event. Be safe out there on the trail and off.
~Bev Hanna KNOX
Happy trails and greetings from Knox County! In June, we had a large turnout for our full moon ride at Thayer Ridge Park. It was a beautiful evening that started with a trail ride, then roasting weenies and making s’mores on an open campfire while waiting for dark. The moon didn’t make an appearance until after 10 p.m. but with our horses decorated with glow sticks and armed with flashlights, it was worth the wait. Although we had no scheduled day rides for June, we had many members show up for impromptu rides at Mohican State Park and
Alum Creek. With the summer heat in full force, our club campout at Zaleski State Park was canceled. We are looking forward to future campouts at the Central Region ride in July and the Gibby Ride and State Ride at Scioto Trails in August. We also have the Mohican group camp reserved in August.
I’m a little early to promote this, but save the date, October 11, for a fun event we will be having. It’s a combined Scavenger Hunt/ Obstacle Challenge! If you have attended any of our events in the past, you know we try very hard to put on a unique event that is both challenging and fun. The theme this year will be ‘The Four Seasons’. We will have much more information in the future. Keep an eye on our website, this article or our ad that will appear in a future Corral.
We meet at Pizza Cottage in Mt. Vernon on the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. Come join us for a meeting, an event or riding down Ohio’s beautiful trails.
~Cindy Cossin
LAKE
During the recent heat waves of summer, four of our Lake OHC members took a break from riding and enjoyed a luncheon cruise on the Lady Caroline out onto Lake Erie. As Rosemary, Ken, Michelle S. and myself sat down to eat, we were joined by a couple who we did not know. We soon learned that they were into horses. He bred and raised Standardbreds. He also loved driving them. Horse folks finding horse folks! We also
toured the Cleveland Aquarium that afternoon. My favorite of all the sea creatures...the pot-bellied sea horses with their side fins fluttering like wings.
Barb J. and Rosemary have been riding at Girdled Road, Headwaters, and West Woods early some mornings. “It felt like we were in a tropical rain forest,” was Rosemary’s comment as they rode. Having ridden my mare, Hannah, in Southwestern Florida, I can empathize with the feeling. Barb J. worked on side trails at Headwaters by herself for five hours one day. She also worked another two hours of trail clearing a second day alone. Kudos to Barb J. Rosemary and her horse, Hope, camped at Malabar Farms and at Tuscacoar campsite. Rosemary loves to camp because of the wonderful and interesting horse folks there. Barb M. rode her mustang, Dilly, on Pleasant Valley Farm’s obstacle course, where there is a new obstacle called a teetertotter. Dilly likes new challenges. Speaking of new challenges, Rayneen (me) attended a working equitation clinic with Ingrid N. abd our trainer/friend Kris Ropp. The many obstacles looked familiar except for the silhouette of a bull with a ring on its withers. One had to use a light lance to pick off the ring on the bull’s shoulders; then take the ring (still on the lance) to a barrel down the line. Fun! We went to a working equitation competition held at Chagrin Valley Farms two weeks later. Ingrid and I observed, while Kris volunteered to help. It was quite amazing to watch. We both plan to attend a working equitation clinic with our horses this fall.
Kris Ropp of Free Spirit Farm has allowed me to have a young pre-vet student to shadow me
Harrison County regional ride.
Mark, showcase winner.
Waiting on the full moon.
Members get together at Mohican State Park.
Jax and Ace at Thayer Ridge Park.
Barb J. clearing trails.
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as I bond with Hannah more and more. Katy is a student at Findley College and during her summer wants to handle horses to better learn about them. Kris has also shared her vast equine knowledge. Our horse dentist was great as she explained what she was doing with each horse’s mouth and teeth. Katy is an enthusiastic learner with great respect for the horses. Joy to you all. Be safe. Be strong. Have fun.
~Rayneen Tisovic
LICKING
Greetings from Licking County! April showers seem to be hanging around a lot longer but we’ve had enough hot and dry weather to keep our trails open. Our June trail ride at Infirmary Mound was well attended and successful. Our next scheduled trail ride is August 16, riding out at 10 a.m., Infirmary Mound, hope you can join us.
Congratulations to Sigrid Batten for completing the Tevis Cup Virtual 2025 Equestrian Division, overall placement 130 of 927.
A shout out and thank you to Charlene, Craig, Donna and Keith for another work day at Dillon. Your hard work and efforts do not go unnoticed. Our weekend campout at Dillon is October 17-19. Reserve your campsite now if you haven’t already and join us for trail rides, food and fun. Rumor has it there may be bingo!
We received a thank you for our donation of a flower container to Dillon. The horseman parking lot at Infirmary Mound has been delayed until at least this fall and possibly 2026.
For members riding at Lobdell, please be advised that the Northridge Cross Country team will be practicing/running Wednesday through Friday, 3:30 to 5 p.m. now through the first week of August. Plan your ride accordingly.
We had a very interesting and informative speaker, Jeremy King, from Licking Land Trust talk about conservation easements at our last meeting. Interested in preserving your farm/farmland? Reach out to Licking Land Trust. Next month I’ll have updates/ pictures of our Regional Ride at AEP Fallon Park and our annual Fun Show. Our next chapter meeting is Sunday, August 31, 6 p.m. Happy Trails, stay safe!
~Crystal Kirk
LOGAN
Where did spring go, temps skyrocketed up to 90 degrees fast! And with all the rain comes all the biting flies out. No worries we will get through it!
We had three members from Logan County OHC attend Champaign Counties Maga Wave Therapy Clinic on June 5. Everyone who went really found it interesting and they even did the Wave Therapy on themselves to see how it felt.
Logan County OHC hosted a ride June 7 at Buck Creek. There were 11 members and secondary members in attendance plus one guest. The ride was almost cancelled due to rain. Thankfully the weather cooperated and we ended up having a great ride and great trail conditions. The Marmon Valley Farm ride June 29 was cancelled, and will be rescheduled for later this summer.
Becky Martin brought up to have our meeting in August at her Standard Bred Farm that she works at, more information will be forthcoming on that. The following are upcoming activities for August:
AUG. 19: Meeting at East Liberty Community Room
AUG. 29: Ride at Van Buren, 10 a.m.
~Cynthia Orr
LORAIN
Hello horse enthusiasts! How have you been enjoying this tropical weather we have been having this summer? Despite the sizzling days, we have been taking advantage of the long summer days by packing in horseback riding, and whenever possible a swim in the lake afterward, as we did at Salt Fork State Park. Salt Fork has 50 miles of trails in the forest with lake views, hills and even rock formations to gaze at. The camp was quite full in mid-June, but there was plenty of shade for the horses on the high lines.
The forest felt a good 10 to 15 degrees cooler so this was much appreciated by all the riders. We opted out of evening fires but
enjoyed ourselves by gathering to shoot the breeze, so to speak, and the breeze was delightful! Saturday, we had a fantastic potluck with delicious burgers provided by Cheryl and Billy G., as well as a great selection of healthy sides, alongside of tasty pies and cakes. We had the pleasure of meeting Jeanette Henderson, a camper passing through our state whom we invited to our potluck. She shared that a goal she has is to travel to all 50 states to horse camp. Jeanette has written a book entitled, The Best (and Worst) Horse Camps Across America and has a website entitled, www. equicamping.com. Jeanette was even so kind as to recite the famous poem, ‘The Man from Snowy River’ by Banjo Paterson which she recited by memory. We felt that it was such a treat to meet such an inspirational horseback rider. Afterward, we sat in a circle and played chair volleyball with Maxine, Bill and Barb’s Great Dane, joining in. Maxine sure was stellar at jumping up for the high ones. We all had fun despite the intense heat.
Those who went to Elkins Creek Horse Camp in Pedro, Ohio, raved about the well-maintained trails with spectacular scenery. Everyone also mentioned how helpful and kind the camp owners were. They did share that it was a long four-hour drive for those living in Lorain County and felt it would be nice to add an extra day to take in more of the awesome views on the wellmaintained trails, making it a four day trip.
Saturday, August 9, there is trail maintenance scheduled for Charlemont Reservation. All those able to help should meet at
the New London-Eastern Road trailhead at 9 a.m. We have a day ride scheduled for Charlemont Reservation on Sunday, August 10 with a ride out time set for 1 p.m. Our August meeting with be held at the Equestrian Center on Monday, August 11 at 7 p.m. If you enjoy ice-cream, come at 6:30 p.m. for the Ice Cream Social. You won’t want to be late as we have some real serious icecream lovers in our council! The Lorain County Fair will be held at the fairgrounds in Wellington August 17-24. Please plan to come out to support our 4-H groups.
We will be camping at Big Elk Lick Horse Camp located in the Allegheny Mountains to ride in the Elk Creek State Forest where there are many miles of trails, primarily logging gas and mining roads. We always cherish the site of seeing Elk, especially when they are in the river bugling. On September 23, we have a day ride set for Saturday, August 23 with a ride out time of 10 a.m. plan to park at Worden Ledges. September 6, we have on our calendar two options. The Erie County OHC Poker Run and Campout at Edison Woods Metroparks is one event. This is a fundraiser and camping is available on Friday after 2 p.m. It is loads of fun with a poker run, lunch and prizes. The other option is Spur for the Cure, Benefit Horseback Trail Ride. This is to be held at Camp Manatoc located in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Peninsula, Ohio. There is a donation to attend that includes lunch, gifts and prizes. Further details can be found on Facebook. Seize the day and all that it has to offer.
~Kathy Duncan MADISON
Hello, all! I’m sure we will
June 7th ride.
Memorial Day parade.
The three maestros at Salt Fork.
Maxine is steller at chair volleyball.
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hear from many how hot, humid and miserable June and early July have been. And it has been! We need to remember that our horses feel the heat more than we do, and they are working harder than we are. Be kind to your equine buddies. Remember that if temperature and humidity are added together, 150 or over is dangerous, and 180 and over is high risk. Horses are three to ten times more susceptible to heat stress than humans, with their higher muscle ratio.
Madison County riders Susan Day and Janet Nelson met other friends for a great five days in Pennsylvania at Sharon’s Horse Heaven adjacent to Cook Forest. They said the trails were wonderful and the scenery was beautiful. They would have preferred less rain, but they still did get to ride and play games indoors during the rains. They made lemonade from the rainy days’ lemons.
We have our last Gymkhanas in August, September, and October. Please join us for a fun day! Feel free to come as a first-time gymkhana rider to see how you and your horse like it—it’s fine to just walk the patterns. Come if you have the competitive burn, too, and see how your speed and control all come together. These are posted on our Madison County Gymkhana Facebook page with a registration link. All events are held at the Madison County Fairgrounds in London, Ohio.
Our July meeting was held at the home of Susan Day for a pool party and cookout. Thanks to Susan and Dave for opening your home so we could cool off and play in your pool and enjoy your smoked and grilled offerings. Potlucks are always fun, and this is our annual no-meeting July fun event. We all appreciate it!
Our August meeting will have a presentation on Equine nutrition by the Tribute Feeds representative. We look forward to learning more about this important topic!
That’s all for this month. Be safe out there, and hug your horses!
~Lisa Reynolds
MEDINA
Parade season is upon us and Medina members are eager to step out with decked out equines and lots of sparkles. The Wadsworth Blue Tip Festival honoring the blue tip matches starts with a parade and Raydeen Ryden, our president, and Joyce
Tretow long time parade alumni, brought along some students and friends to create the Dry Lot Crew. Great to see our members out promoting horsemanship while having a John Philip Sousa kind of day.
You can’t say Medina chapter is not ready to work at a moment’s notice. We even had an impromptu tree demolition at our July 2 meeting. We’ve had several trees come in Robinson Field due to storms and old age. The tree’s old age, not ours. Anyway, Mike ‘Have Chain Saw Will Travel’ Andrea was ready to take on these ambulatory arbors and at the July meeting with some help from Raydeen Ryden, Rosemary Young, Kathy Schmidt and Maureen Mizerak made a big dent in a tree that had taken down some high lines with it. We are generally down in the park the second Saturday of each month, March through November; contact Raydeen Ryden (raysden2@gmail.com or 334/663-7361) or Greg Monsanty (330/352-5737 or (blackhorsebridge@aol.com) for details on the dates and where and when to meet. The park provides tools and equipment. Can you believe it? Next year Medina chapter OHC will be 40 years old! Our history with the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is now legend (at least we think so) and after thousands of hours of trail work, we are ready to party! We are excepting any ideas on how to make the next year memorable. Think venues to hold a fun event, exceptional places to ride, or unique experiences you may have tried. We’re open to any and all ideas. Contact Rosemary Young at
rosemary4medinaohc@gmail. com or 440/382-7980. There is still time to sign up for our combined state ride with Cuyahoga and Summit chapters September 26-28 at Chagrin Reservation, Cleveland Metroparks. The flyer is available on ohconline.com under Documents/State Rides. Bring auction items and flea market finds for our ‘treasurers’ tables and live auction. Contact Rosemary Young, 440/3827980 or rosemary4medinaohc@ gmail.com to arrange a pick-up or bring the items to one of our meetings or to the ride. Want to volunteer? Contact Carolyn Sullivan at 330/242-2921 or horseclubsummit@aol.com. Come ride with us-down in the valley!
~Rosemary MEIGS
We had 26 horses ride at the Make-A-Wish Trail ride this year. The club would like to thank all who came and helped make it a huge success! So far, the club has raised $13,505.69 this year for the make-A-Wish Foundation. We still have some donations trickling in so when we get a final number, I’ll let you know.
It’s not too late to come join in on the fun at our monthly fun shows. The address of the camp is 30225 St. Rt. 124, Langsville, Ohio 45741. The next fun show and trail ride is scheduled for August 10, with the trail ride starting at 2 p.m. and fun show at 5 p.m. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
I hope all our members have been out getting your trail miles in and having a great time with your ponies! Remember all miles ridden at the AEP Camp in Langsville count as double miles!
Our club is excited to join the Gallia County OHC at their trail ride on August 9 at O.O. McIntyre Park Horse Shelter House! All are invited and we hope to see everyone there for a safe fun day with our horses. The Meigs chapter meets each month on the third Tuesday (August 19) with the exception of December. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. at Fox’s Pizza Den in Pomeroy, Ohio. Visitors are welcome, please join us to learn more about OHC and see how you can become a member.
~Jocelyn Wilson PERRY
I hope everyone had a fantastic Fourth of July and have been enjoying the trails. Our chapter officers recently met with officials from Burr Oak and were very pleased with the progress taking place at the horseman’s campground. From our president, Carla Marshall, “It’s not too often that you get excited about flush toilets but it’s great to see the new one that has been built in the horse camp. We didn’t even have a vault toilet in camp forcing campers to walk down the road to the pit toilet when nature called. As of this writing, it wasn’t quite finished so we didn’t see the inside but it should be open by the time you read this in August. Also, it has a water fountain with a filler spout for water bottles!”
Our club would like to thank Bobbi Arters (Delaware chapter) and Lorna Kenyon (Madison chapter) for their sage advice on working with ODNR state park management. Our chapter has a goal of getting more involved at Burr Oak to maintain and enhance the camp and trails. Both Carla and our vice president, Marsha Wofter, met with the Burr Oak assistant park manager and maintenance supervisor in June and will be sharing that information with members at our August meeting. Both women are enthused about what we can accomplish at the park. The accompanying photos
Mike at work.
Blue Tip, Raydeen.
Riders at the Make-A-Wish ride.
Cassidy and Shelby Runyon at the Make-A-Wish ride.
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show the new restrooms and the area that unfortunately we lost for camping, which is in the back of the grounds. Hopefully at the next meeting we can discuss an alternative for additional parking across the road. Not ideal, but we will make the most of it.
In other news, June and July were busy with out of state trips and campouts. Details forthcoming in the next issues.
Heather and Ben Stengle traveled to California for the marriage of their daughter, Mattie, and then hosted an Ohio reception. Congrats to the newlyweds! Heather sent her mule, Delilah, to the trainer in preparation for her ride on her as a 3-year old.
Upcoming rides include our Salt Fork ride in mid-August hosted by the Stengles which promises to be a great time, along with the annual state ride at Scioto Trails hosted by our friends in the Fairfield chapter. Don’t miss our August meeting to take part in planning for our annual soup ride in October as well as upcoming, dare I say it, fall rides.
Come join us for an informative meeting August 12 at The Pizza Place in New Lexington.
~Marianne
Patton
PREBLE
Preble County would like to thank everyone who came out to our Fourth of July weekend fun show. It was a hot one. It was great to see some new people and our dedicated friends. Trails were cleared and those large impassable areas are now ready for riders.
We love our parks! Please remember to be respectful of everyone and cleanup after yourself and your horses at your camp site. We understand no one loves cleaning up, knowing their camping time is temporarily over, to go back to work but please be respectful for those
coming in looking forward to their fun camping time.
We want to thank Bob Wells, an associate member, for their loyal donations. We love to give away prizes to our winners. Our next fun weekend will be Labor Day weekend. We will have a fun show and hide and seek the stars on the trail. Remember it’s red, white, and blue. Find the star, bring it to an OHC member to receive your prize.
We are looking forward to our annual state ride October 3-5. Come join us Friday for our crockpot soup dinner—all you can eat and try different kinds of soup. This is a free dinner, donations are accepted, bring your own drink. Saturday is a full day of fun with a fun show, followed by a smoked pulled pork dinner for a $5 donation with two sides, drink, and dessert. We will kick the night off with local live music, door prizes, 50/50, a $750 gift certificate to Rural King, and a Chinese auction. Sunday will be cowboy church you won’t want to miss. Lots of great prizes! Don’t miss this annual event. With or without electric this is an amazing time. Weather is usually perfect.
Our Junior Ambassadors are working hard, earning lots of trail miles and saddle time. We enjoy seeing them out and enjoying themselves and learning all they can.
ROSS
Hello, fellow riders. I hope
you all have been having a great summer so far. I wanted to give a couple of updates for Ross County’s chapter. We have been approved to install hitching posts at a couple of breaks sites at Tar Hollow. If you haven’t been riding here yet, it’s one of the best places to ride, especially if you want to get your horse in shape!
The chapter will be having their fall poker run on November 8. They will also be having a meeting, along with the Christmas holiday party that same day. We figured since Christmas time is so busy, we would kill three birds with one stone; poker run, meeting, and Christmas party. As always, the chapter will provide the meat, and if everyone else could bring a side dish and your choice of beverage, that would be awesome.
Please remember, during these hot days you’re taking extra good care of your horses, especially if you’re out riding, because they take care of us and let us ride them, so please be mindful! Safe riding, everyone! Until next time.
~Whitney Stires
STARK
Wow! June was an amazing month for our chapter. I know this is August as you are reading this but I am writing it in June so bear with me. Julie Croston set up several parades for those who love parades in which to ride and they had a wonderful time.
Our Stark Parks District hosted an open house at Quail Hollow State Park, which they now manage, as it was the Manor’s 50th anniversary. They asked our chapter to have a booth setup along with a horse that people could take pictures with. As it turned out to be one of the very hot Sundays in June, the attendance to tour the building was slight be we had a very good time. We were able to set up our display in the shade and Kathy Sailer, who is also a Trail Volunteer with Stark Parks and her horse Jaz, were very comfortable accommodating visitors for pictures and pets. The PR always helps. Through our efforts we were able to help Stark Parks get funding through Ohio Trail Partnership for projects like Sippo Lake Trail Head parking and some other Stark Park areas.
In June, our chapter held a weekend ride and camping at Mohican State Forest in conjunction with Buckeye Trails Riders, another horse club most
of our members belong to. Two of our members took it upon themselves to contact their employers about participating in a Social Responsibility Day. Linda Misko and Janice Noel were both giving a service day to volunteer in their community. They did this at Camp Tuscazoar where they cleared and cleaned up the horse camp in time for weekend riders. Valerie StrohKline, Jake Crum and Val’s grandson Corbin also helped.
Our chapter was very busy on the hot days of June. In August we are looking forward to the Gibby Ride and several of our members and others will participate in the Hall of Fame Parade on August 2.
Here is wishing a great year for riding.
~Jo Ellen
SUMMIT
In case you did not hear the buzz, there was quite an event going on the weekend of June 20-22. In fact it might just be the next spinoff to a very popular TV show, introducing CSI Richfield. It was all part of the Murder at Kirby’s Mill sponsored by the Summit County OHC under the direction of play write, Lee Hendrickson. This was not Lee’s first foray into this genre but she’s definitely building on her successes. Picture a seedy cast of characters enacted by seven OHC
New restrooms.
Lost camping spots.
Letty Brill running poles.
Junior Ambassador, Arianna Collins.
Linda and Janice, work party.
Quail Hollow
Mohican, 2025
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and local community members. The attitude and costumes alone were worth the price of admission. Gumshoes and mounted units alike got the details on the Sam Todaro murder and were off to search for clues, interviewing perspective witnesses and persons of interest, and tracking down the killer(s) in Richfield Heritage Preserve. There was plenty of ground to cover, notes to decipher and multiple theories on who made the hit. So, just who was the guilty party(s)? I won’t spoil the outcome; you will just have to check with someone who attended and willing to share their findings. After all, you might even decide to try your luck at a future event. We wish to offer our sincere thanks to all the participants who joined us at the mill, the army of OHC and community members who so generously volunteered their time and effort, and Big Dee Tack for their ongoing equine support. The next upcoming fundraiser maybe a little less dramatic but always a crowd pleaser. It’s the poker run also at Richfield Heritage Preserve on August 2. Cost is $20 for the event with breakfast provided. Lunch can be purchased for an additional $5. There will be first and second prizes awarded as well as basket raffles. Ride or hike out at 10 a.m. and see if Lady Luck smiles on you. That four leaf clover or rabbit foot may just give you the edge. Also, the OHC State Ride and camping weekend will be September 26-28 at the South Chagrin Polo Field. This event is sponsored by multiple OHC chapters and promises to
be a weekend to remember. The Cleveland Mounted Police Unit has confirmed their reservation. Either our reputations have preceded us or the food and good company are just too good to pass up. Don’t miss showing off your prowess line dancing Saturday night especially after a full day in the saddle, a hearty meal, and multiple trips to the dessert table. Sounds like one heck of a night to me.
On a more serious note, new trails are especially hard to come by these days. The Bath Nature Preserve has approached Summit OHC about extending their limited bridle trails and asked for our input. This 420 acre park has a long history with foxhunting on the former Firestone Estate. We are certainly encouraged with their wishes to honor their equine history and traditions and look forward to future discussions. So if you have been like the rest of us and Sweating with the Oldies has been your summer barn chore anthem, hang on as mid August usually brings some relief.
~Joann Ulichney
TUSCARAWAS
Tales of Caney Mountain’s spectacular views, rugged terrain, and boldly flowing rivers preceded the adventures Alice chose to pursue. Alice, of Jeffersonville, Ky., resides in the heart of challenging trail riding parks and spectacular gorges.
Since the camping and riding in her own backyard, is already spectacular, the prospect of traveling nine plus hours to Caney Mountain, Ark., had to be unusually enticing. The prospect of winding through mountainous ledge trails, crossing rock strewn rivers and sharing an amazing bond with her preferred mount, Banjo. Together they have faced continuous obstacles the trail afforded. Trust and faith in your horse, acceptance of monumental descents and twisting trails rising to heights that can diminish the courage that prompted the initial attempt.
The camping area at Caney Mountain is exceptionally primitive. Generators ease the discomfort and provide a minute means of luxury. Horse folks are an adaptive species. Their horses are their concern! At the end of the day, relaxing around the fire pit, flames rising skyward, enjoying the art of cowboy
cooking, and absorbing the comfort in the company of likeminded friends, truly satisfies the outcome of the struggles that may have occurred. A gentle breeze and the subtle nicker of your horse settling in, soothes the soul. Trail riders, horses and riders alike, do not demand perfection, merely a hammock, fresh clean water and the peaceful whisper of the wind through the pines, assures Heaven on earth.
The Tuscarawas County OHC meets on the second Monday of each month, at 7 p.m. We welcome new members!
~Holly Waldenmyer
WASHINGTON
Hello. The summer is flying by in Washington County and we have a couple of things to share. The Children’s Miricle Network Ride we sponsored at Appalachian Hills was a success! The weather forecast was sketchy at best, but we persevered! It did not rain on us and we had a great time. Don Wagner led a good ride around some of the fine trails there and we returned to the shelter for a wonderful lunch. The folks from Walmart in Marietta were our partners and did a wonderful job with
the lunch, auction and the whole day! Over $5,000 was raised for this worthwhile organization. Plans are underway for a bigger and better ride next year at the same place!
We also wanted to invite you to our Corn Ride on August 9 at the Kinderhook trailhead of Wayne National Forest in Newport, Ohio. We will start with a ride out at 10 a.m. This usually includes a scavenger hunt for anyone wishing to play along for some great prizes! We will stop and eat along the trail and return to camp early afternoon. At 5 p.m. we will have our potluck dinner with corn being the guest of honor! Once again Bill Hoover’s big pot will be over an open fire and we will cook dozens of ears of corn with a ton of butter, it is always delicious! The folks in the Washington County Chapter love to cook and eat so there is always a plethora of food to share. The evening will also include an auction of donated items. It is a great day and we would love for you to join us! Feel free to reach out for more information.
I hope everyone has been enjoying our wonderful trails between rain showers, heat, and hay season. It is very relaxing, and a special gift to see nature at its finest and share the pleasure of it with our children and grandchildren. While riding Kinderhook trails this month my grandson and I discovered a very new baby fawn laying on the trail. Mother deer thought she had hidden it well, but it was on the open trail. Baby did as its mother ordered and stayed put even when faced with two very large horses so close by. We rode off trail around it after enjoying the wonder of its confidence in its hiding spot. This is one ride I am sure my grandson Zayden will long remember. What a blessing for God to share such wonderful things with us along the trails. See you on the trail!
~Rita Schultheis
WAYNE
As the sun stretches its golden rays across the summer fields and the gentle breeze carries the scent of wildflowers, this month has found our Wayne County OHC chapter alive with activity, camaraderie, and the shared passion that unites us all: our love for horses. From earlymorning rides through dew-kissed meadows to evening gatherings
Tuscarawas County OHC
Summit County OHC
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beneath star-strewn skies, June has been a tapestry of unforgettable moments, dedicated learning, competition and community spirit. Our junior members have been very busy this month. While her grandma and riding partner is laid up after shoulder surgery, Denver is not letting any grass grow under her mini horse’s feet. She showed at the mini show in Fredericktown and took fourth in hunter and fourth in timed jumping. That is a great showing considering there were 10 horses in each class. Kim S. took her grandson, Jordan on a Tuesday ride at Mohican. She had to bring her Missouri Fox Trotter, Jesse, out of retirement for the ride. Judging from Jordan’s smile I would say Jesse did very well for an old gal and the ride was a success. Taran Tate has a new lease horse, Doc. He took second in Keyhole in his first 4H fun show at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. We are all looking forward to seeing his success as the summer continues.
The heat and rain has taken a toll on the organized rides and campouts but we were still able to get in a few this month. Five
of us camped at Pleasant Hill. We started out on Friday with a good ride at Mohican and then headed over to set up camp at Pleasant Hill. The rain prevented a camp fire Friday night but we had a good ride over to Malabar on Saturday. We ended the day with a delicious potluck and wonderful camp fire. Vicki Zook from Holmes County joined us for the potluck and campfire. Heather Tate met a friend at Elkins Creek in Pedro, Ohio, for their Women, Hoses and Chocolate camp out weekend. Judging by the pictures and comments I think it sounds like a trip some of us will have to book for next year. Marline Smalley, our fearless president and resident dare devil, worked a week as a camp cook at a wilderness camp in Virginia for children. Not only did she cook outdoors for kids for a week, she joined them in the mountain climbing! Would we expect anything less from a woman who has completed the Appalachian Trail? Tami Burkhart hosted a day ride at Wetmore. The weather was beautiful and trails
were in excellent condition. We ended the month with a well-attended work day at Mohican. Fourteen of us worked cleaning up the campground and trails in preparation for the Regional Ride over the Fourth of July. More on the Regional Ride next month!
WOOD
Whew! And just like that (imagine fingers snapping), we’re reaching the end of summer. I know I may sound like the prophet of doom to some, but I for one would appreciate a little cooler weather. It has been difficult to find time when it is safe to ride— for both rider and horse!
Despite the heat, members of Wood County OHC have ventured out for some camping trips, and everyone reported having an excellent time. In early June, we travelled to ‘that state up north’ and enjoyed a fantastic weekend at Waterloo State Park. Despite at least 16 hours of consistent rain (thoughtfully provided mostly overnight), the trails were in excellent condition with very few spots being even soft or muddy. And when it was raining, those present got together and played cards and swapped stories. We certainly know how to have fun regardless of what the clouds do!
Late June brought a trip to Malabar State Park in Ohio. Wood County members present reported it being warm and muggy, but had a delightful experience nonetheless. It’s so much of a blessing to be able to gather together as horse lovers, regardless of our levels of experience, age, etc.! Last month I got a bit sentimental relating how we are able to offer support, advice, friendship and fun to each other, and it continues to be one of my favorite things about being a member of OHC, and Wood County’s chapter in particular.
Who says you can’t have ice cream?!
July camping trips included a stay at our ‘home base’, Van Buren State Park for the Fourth of July weekend, and a longer excursion down to Great Seal State Park near Chillicothe. Stay tuned for next month’s edition for pictures from those trips. Looking further ahead, please make plans to join Wood County OHC members, as well as OHC members from the other clubs in the Northwest Region for our annual State Ride, to be held September 19-20 at Van Buren State Park. See the Northwest Region Facebook page for further details and information on how to make reservations. It is always a great time with numerous activities, including kids’ events and of course, lots of good food! And don’t forget the fantastic raffle prizes available! Wood County members have tickets available, you will regret not getting involved.
I hope this reading finds you, as well as your equine partner(s) healthy and well and fully enjoying your summer. Keep staying right side up in the saddle and take advantage of every moment on the trails! Until next month…
