The Horsemen’s Corral is the official publication for the
Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club
Avon Lake Saddle Club
Black Swamp Driving Club
Buckeye Equestrian Association
Central Ohio Saddle Club Association
Central Ohio Wagoneers
Classical Attraction Dressage Society
Colorado Ranger Horse Association
Creek Side Mounted Archery
District One National Show Horse
Dusty Boots Riding Club
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
Club Sales & Circulation Manager
Art & Composition Director Michelle Ross email michelle@thehorsemenscorral.com
& PHOTOGRAPHERS
Features: Kelley Bitter, Rob and Tanya Corzatt
Robert Eversole, Lisa Kiley, Terry Myers, Sarah Vas
Guests: Haley Campbell, Sadie Fisher, Gina Fortunato, Ann Hornsby, Sara L. Mastellar
and Deb Petcher, Elizabeth
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
ABOUT THE COVER: Centerra/Purina’s Spur for the Cure Benefit Trail Ride at Camp Manatoc in the CVNP on Sept 6, 2025 - a great way to support our community (Akron Children’s Hospital) while having fun with our horses! Ann Hornsby (Medina) and Blueberry lead the second ride of the day! Amazing photographs provided by Mike and Deb Petcher.
Ride In Sync
Training Tip Part 4: Your Horse is a Rear Engine ‘Model’
by Terry Myers
This is the fourth part in my training series articles. In last month’s article I talked about moving the horse’s hips and shoulders. That amount of control comes in to play with many maneuvers and is something every horse and rider should be able to do. In this article we are going to talk about how to start moving the hip to the inside while moving forward (walk, trot and canter/lope). This may sound simple, but has a huge impact on collection, speed and cadence.
The process of pushing the hip to the inside does not mean that the nose tips to the outside. Too often I see horses cantering with the nose to the rail and the head to the outside, looking like they are loping sideways. All this does is make a horse drop their inside shoulder and get heavy in front. Ask any veterinarian, a horse’s pasterns are meant to move forward, not sideways (hence another joint that is
being injected). In Training Tip Part 2 of this series, we talked about horses being bilateral. With that in mind, when I push the outside hip in it actually makes my inside should stand up. Are you confused yet? Let me explain…let’s say I am riding in a clockwise direction (to the right) and I push the horse’s hip in to the right while keeping their neck/head straight. The horse’s body is now in the shape of a ‘j’ (slightly). What I am actually doing is making them lift their right (inside) shoulder. The end result is that the horse squares and elevates their shoulders, lifts their back and drives deeper from behind. This simple maneuver is of benefit to just about all disciplines, from the western pleasure horse to the jumper and barrel horse.
To start you move the hips in by moving the shoulders out. Back to Training Tip Part 2, we talked about using your inside leg to drive to the outside rein
creating a bend in the rib cage that put the horse in the shape of a ‘C’. To do this, get the bend on the inside rein/leg that you have been diligently practicing and perfecting, then take steady pressure on the outside rein with your outside hand position back by the pommel of the saddle. With your inside rein keep a ‘feel’ on the horse’s mouth without pulling. Now we are going to add to that. Next step, you move your outside leg back (just in front of your back cinch) and open your outside rein while driving (light bumping) with your inside leg close to the cinch. As soon as you feel the horse start to take a stop outward, you release all rein and leg pressure. Do this a couple of hundred more times (no one said this was easy). At this point, you are basically getting this hip to come in by moving the shoulders outward. When your horse is good at moving the shoulders out, what you have done is taught your horse to lift their shoulders and use their ribcage. The next building block is to actually push the hip in with outside rein plus outside leg while keeping them soft and supple on the inside rein. If at any time you find your horse pulling on the bit or inside rein, you can work the reins to get them off the bit and/or use a little inside leg to get them to soften. At no time should you pull on the reins.
When you are properly using your outside leg it is a drive not a squeeze and certainly is not sticking your spur into their ribs. To maintain lightness in your horse you have to be light with your hands and learn to drive with you outside leg. What do I mean by drive? Bump with your entire outside leg in rhythm with your horse’s stride. If done properly, in about a month or two, you will be able to move your leg back and with minimal driving motion your horse will move their hip in. The goal is to get this maneuver with the
most subtle and least amount of pressure possible.
If you put this article with the three previous training articles, you have the basics of my riding training program. Much of what I have talked about is being able to detect the subtle changes in your horse and reward them. It’s also about developing a ‘feel’. To learn and develop a ‘feel’ you have to pay attention to your horse’s feet. Their feet change and soften before anything else. Most riders want to pay attention to their horse’s head (headset). Big mistake because they can have a low headset and still be very forehand heavy. When the feet, or foot fall is soft, the horse will be soft. The head carriage will be correct when the horse is moving correctly. If you can learn to pay attention to their foot fall, you will develop a feel which will improve your riding and training program.
Here is my disclaimer…these are my general training steps. But I will say that horse training is not always black and white, every horse is different. They are like people, with different rates of learning. A good horsemen/ woman is patient and waits for their horse to tell them when they are ready for the next training steps. If the horse is not progressing, stop and think about what you could be doing incorrectly that is creating a barrier. Taking a step back in your training process can be the best way to move forward.
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-In-Sync methods as well as clinic and training services available, visit www.tmtrainingcenter.com or on Facebook.
Ohio High School Rodeo Association
OHSRA Growing and Having Fun
NATIONAL DIRECTOR, Nikki McCarty
PRESIDENT, Chelsea Schoch
SECRETARY, Holly Rowe
PHONE, 419/651-0111
WEBSITE, www.ohiohighschoolrodeo.org
by Emery Scott Student Vice President
In October, the Ohio and Michigan High School Rodeo teams met in Swanton, Ohio. The two states competed, continuing to cheer each other on and support one another. As each contestant improves both teams are only getting stronger. We are so excited to continue seeing old and new members this season. Our rodeo family keeps growing as the season goes on, and contestants are building forever friendships along the way. This looks to be
a fun and competitive year ahead.
Our Ohio team came out strong at the first dual rodeo of the season. In the High School goat tying Gabrielle Nussbaum and in Junior High girl’s goat tying Zoe Bloss took the win in their divisions. Noah Ashbaugh in the Junior High Boys came out on top on Saturday. Brayden Pontius and Mesa Cherrington took the win in the Junior High ribbon roping. In the High School tie
down Wyatt Asbury came out smoking in round one. Addison Webb and Cassidy Camper in the High School team roping secured the win. In the High School pole bending, Gabrielle Nussbaum and in Junior High, Dixie Keim both claimed victories for Ohio.
We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the November rodeos. It’s exciting to see how each team member continues to grow and improve as the season goes on.
If you are 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.
Team practice.
Zoe Bloss, JH barrel racing.
Brayden Pontius, JH roper.
Road to the Horse Announces Sadie Fisher as 2026 Wild Card Competitor
Road to the Horse will return to the Kentucky Horse Park, March 19–22, 2026, bringing the excitement, tradition, and passion that have defined the event for more than two decades. At the heart of the World Championship of Colt Starting lies the Wild Card Competition—an inspiring showcase of exceptional horsemanship talent from around the globe.
Road to the Horse is proud to announce Sadie Fisher as the newest Road to the Horse 2026 Wild Card Competitor. Fisher is the owner and trainer of Unbridled Equine in Pennsylvania, where she specializes in starting colts and developing versatile, confident horses.
“I feel extremely honored and thrilled to be a Wild Card Competitor at Road to the Horse 2026,” said Sadie Fisher. “I am excited to challenge myself, meet people, the colts, and share this passion that the Lord has given me. Thank you, Road to the Horse for this amazing opportunity.”
Growing up Amish, Fisher was surrounded by horses from an early age, using them for everyday transportation and work—a foundation that sparked her lifelong passion for horsemanship. She began riding English before shifting to western disciplines, where she discovered her true calling in colt starting. Since founding Unbridled Equine in 2013, Fisher has earned a reputation for her calm, practical approach and her
commitment to continual learning and growth as a horsewoman.
“Sadie Fisher’s story and approach to horsemanship perfectly embody the spirit of the Wild Card Competition,” stated Tina Battock, President of the Morris Equine Group. “Her dedication, humility, passion and lifelong connection with horses make her an outstanding addition to the 2026 lineup.”
Fisher joins Rob Leach and Tiffany McLaury, who were previously announced as Road to the Horse 2026 Wild Card competitors. The final Wild Card competitor will be revealed next Wednesday, completing the lineup of four talented horsemen and horsewomen set to compete for a coveted spot in the Championship.
The Wild Card Challenge kicks off the event on Thursday, March 19, and wraps up on Friday, March 20. As in years past, the Wild Card Champion will immediately advance to a Championship Competitor position on Friday afternoon, joining Championship Competitors Elisa Wallace, Ryan Rose and Nick Dowers and competing for a share of the $134,000 purse.
Road to the Horse 2026 takes place at the Kentucky Horse Park on March 19-22. Tickets are available at www.RoadtotheHorse.com or by calling 800/514-3849. Follow Road to the Horse on Facebook or Instagram for the latest information.
About Road to the Horse
Founded in 2003, Road to the Horse strives to inspire people to reach a higher level of horsemanship and develop unity with a horse based on trust and not fear. We believe that through education and entertainment, we can change people’s ideas and create a better world for the horse. Road to the Horse competitions identify the superior colt starter who accumulates the highest score. Judging focuses on the competitor and the effectiveness of their horsemanship methodology to communicate, educate and build a partnership with their colt based on trust. Fans witness the entire journey, from colt selection to the final obstacle challenge. Event schedule and tickets available at www.RoadtotheHorse.com.
About Morris Equine Group
Morris Equine Group consists of some of the industry’s most recognized brands, including Western Horseman, Quarter Horse News and Barrel Horse News. The group also includes EquiStat, a statistical service offering detailed information and earnings for the performance horse industry. Morris Equine Group is home to the National Barrel Horse Association, the West Coast Barrel Racing Association, the first-ever PBR Team Series Champions Nashville Stampede, the World Championship of Colt Starting Road to the Horse and the Decatur, Texas, event center The Ranch at NRS.
Photos courtesy of Sadie Fisher
Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros
Autumn Trails Results, Looking Forward to 2026
PRESIDENT, Mike Sheets
VICE PRESIDENT, John Truman
TREASURER, Jessica Sheets
SECRETARY, Christy Pellegrino
EMAIL, nvirzi@yahoo.com
WEBSITE, www.lakeerievaqueros.net
by Nancy Virzi (Go Forward Virzi)
The Vaqueros’ 2025 shooting season is now finished, but there is next year to look forward to. Now is the time to get your horse trained and guns cleaned and get ready for spring.
There will be other clubs having winter shoots, but the Vaqueros don’t have access to the indoor facility needed to shoot in snow and cold. The following are the results of the September Autumn Trails I and II shoot:
SATURDAY AUTUMN TRAILS
L1 Kylee Kitzmiller this was a qualified win and her first! L2 Maria Haefner, L3
Georgia Treas, L5 Karla Durnell, M1
Karla Durnell, M1 Kenny Pence, M2 Ed Haefner, M3 Mike Sheets, M4 David Ringer, M6 Paul Treas, SL1 Nancy Little, SL4 Chei Stady, SL 5 Colleen Kelly, SM1 Denis Cooper, SM4 Tom Hockran, SM6 Ron Kiko.
WRO: Lilly Treas and Kamille Huff.
OVERALL Ron Kiko
RESERVE OVERALL Paul Treas
OVERALL SR. COWGIRL Colleen Kelly
RES. SENIOR COWGIRL Cheri Stady
OVERALL COWBOY Paul Treas
RESERVE COWBOY Mike Sheets
OVERALL SENIOR COWBOY Ron Kiko
RES. OVERALL COWBOY Tom Hockran
OVERALL COWGIRL Karla Durnell
RESERVE COWGIRL Georgia Treas
SUNDAY AUTUMN TRAILS II
L1 Kylee Kitzmiller, L2 Braelyn Ringer, L3 Georgia Treas, L5 Jennifer Treas, M1 Kenny Pence, M2 Ed Haefner, M3 Michael Sheets, M4 David Ringer, M6 Paul Treas, SL1 Nancy Little, SL4 Cheri Stady, SL5 Colleen Kelly, SM1 Denis Cooper, SM4 Dwayne Joyner, SM6 Ron Kiko
WRL: Emmett Ringer.
WRO: Lilly Treas and Kamille Huff
Congratulations to everyone.
Dave Davis has stepped down from the presidency and Nancy Virzi has stepped down from secretary. We had an emergency election to fill the offices as well as Board of Directors as there were spots left there as well. Our new president is Mike Sheets, the
vice president is John Truman, secretary is Christy Pellegrino. Our new Board of Directors are Ed and Maria Haefner, Nancy Virzi, Tom Hockran and Steve Kitzmiller along with those who did not move to other jobs. Mike has some big boots to fill. Dave has been president for around 18 years. He said it was time for someone else to carry the job as he wants to do other things. Good luck to Dave on whatever he goes on to do and a big thank you for all the hard work and long hours.
Thank you to our great sponsors: Big Dee’s Tack, Kiki Meats, Siracki Realty, Jefferson Milling, and Parkside Trailers.
Marie Haefner
Jen Treas
Dave Davis and Dwayne Joyner.
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
Fall is winding up and another year of competition and growth is being celebrated. I hope everyone found moments of joy in the saddle meeting new goals, improving scores, overcoming challenges while enjoying time with our wonderful equine partners.
Championships fill the fall show season. MODA is proud of our members, Karen Sanchez, Margot Pontia and Teresa Burke, who took on the challenges of the USDF Region 2 Championship September 10-14 at the Waterloo Hunt Club, Grass Lake, Mich. Participating in the competition benefited the riders and horses, in confidence, developing
Riding Into the Fall Finals
discipline and skills, building friendships and community, providing opportunity for travel and adventure, and fostering respect with their equine partners as our three members share in the following recaps.
Karen Sanchez and her horse Quarter Note or ‘Queue’ a 2015 Hanoverian gelding, marked their fourth consecutive appearance at the USDF Region 2 Championship and making their debut at Third Level, a milestone achievement per Karen. Under the guidance of coach Jennifer Truett of Dancing Horse Farm in Lebanon, Ohio, they have been steadily climbing the dressage
ladder since 2020.
“Third Level has tested me in ways I didn’t expect. Training my horse while learning the intricacies of the level myself has been a balancing act of patience, persistence, and trust. This championship reminded me of a crucial lesson: I need to ride every stride with intention, especially after the ‘hard parts’ of the test are behind me. Relaxing too soon can cost precious points—and I felt that firsthand.”
At Regionals they competed in both the Third Level Adult Amateur Championship and the Third Level Musical Freestyle Championship. In both classes, with razor-close scores they placed fourth and earned a wildcard spot to compete at the 2025 US Dressage Finals held October 30 through November 2 at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio. Congratulations Karen and Queue!
Karen continued to sum up her experience beautifully.
“Beyond the ribbons and scores, the weekend was rich with connection. I reunited with friends I only see at shows, met inspiring new riders, and cheered on teammates who shared the arena with me. The sense of community in dressage is one of its greatest gifts.”
Youth member Margot recounts her Region 2 championship experience as a journey that is inspiring and relatable. “My name is Margot Pontia, I am a 14-year-old member of MODA and I have been riding dressage seriously for two and a half years. My horse Atlas is a 2009 OTTB gelding I keep at home. Atlas and I had the great opportunity to ride at the 2025 USDF Region 2 Championship. This spring we made our recognized show debut at Training Level. I set the goal to qualify to the Regional championships. I participated in clinics and rode with many
trainers to prepare. We rode lots of tests at BraveHorse Ohio this summer. I got nervous that maybe my horse was good because we had what people called ‘Home Court Advantage’, since he was so comfortable and relaxed at the showgrounds, we started calling our ‘second home’”.
I was not prepared for all the crowds and activity of four rings and three warmup rings crammed together at the Waterloo Hunt Club for the championships. Horses seemed to be stabled on top of horses. The first day I hacked Atlas, I suffered from serious ‘Imposter Syndrome’ as I worked in the warmup besides professionals from all the surrounding states and the other juniors, with their entourage of trainers, and grooms all fluttering about them. I had my mom with her support that was all. I started to wonder “Who do I think I am?”. Atlas never bat an eye at anything at the show. He just put his ears forward for all my tests and did his job like we were in our own backyard. We finished in the top ten scores for the Junior Division of training level. Not high enough to move on to Finals, but I remind myself I met my goal. I made it to Regionals this year and in that...I am a winner.” Thank you, Margot, for reminding us meeting our goals is winning indeed. Congratulations to you and Atlas. MODA congratulates Teresa Burke and Nobel Patriot under the guidance of coach Amie Parmaore for qualifying to the 2025 US Dressage Finals in Adult Amateur Second Level with their lovely rides at the USDF Region 2 Championship. Placing eighth she enjoyed the awards ceremony and the beautiful showgrounds. Teresa says her goal at the Finals is not to finish last, but we at MODA already see her as winner and wish her much luck and good rides at the Finals.
Teresa Burke and Nobel Patriot.
Karen Sanchez and Quarter Note.
Margot Pontia and Atlas
Geauga Horse and Pony Association
Annual Banquet Date, Input and Ideas Wanted for 2026
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
Save the date! We’re excited to celebrate the success of our 2025 horse show season at our annual awards banquet March 14, 2026. More information about banquet donations and reservations to follow.
Our show committee will be meeting to come up with new and exciting things for our 2026 show season. If you are interested in being a part of the show committee, please reach out to a board member, send an email or message us on Facebook. New input and ideas are always welcomed! 2026 show dates will be posted soon!
Final points are posted on our website. Congratulations to all our award winners!
2025 HIGHPOINT WINNERS
RANCH: Tiffany Holloway and My Irons Be Platinum
WALK-TROT: Brooklyn Jonath and Thistelridge’s Tumbling Dice
NOVICE: Madalynn Krukowski and Lopes By Invitation
OPEN: Morgan Csontos and Shepard’s Graw Millenium Force
WALK-TROT CONTESTING: Demi
Pirichy and American Kestrel
BEGINNER YOUTH CONTESTING: Joselyn Olson and Jojo
ADVANCED YOUTH CONTESTING: Stella Montague and Reba
ADULT: Char Mahovlic and Cici
RESERVE HIGHPOINT WINNERS
RANCH: McKenzie Thompson and Sorensen’s Olaf
WALK-TROT: Macie McIntire and Tonto’s Kimo Sabe
NOVICE: Mylie Burns and Ruby Tuesday of Thistleridge
OPEN: Claire Cadorette and Be Too Cool
WALK-TROT CONTESTING: Paisley
Brostek and Pretzel
BEGINNER YOUTH: Olive Gabbard and Rover
ADVANCED YOUTH: Allie
Huntington and Risky Business
ADULT: Jaimie Olson and Eli
Please join us at our monthly meetings on the first Thursday
of every month at 7 p.m. at the Geauga County Fairgrounds in the lounge attached to the school building. New officers will be elected at our November meeting. Stay connected! Visit our website (GHPA.us) and follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and announcements.
Geauga Horse and Pony Associaiton thanks Big Dee’s Tack for their generous support of our organization through their Bonus Buck’s program. We greatly appreciate all this wonderful company provides for our organization.
Ohio Western Horse Association
Thank You to Sponsors
PRESIDENT, Gale Davis
VICE PRESIDENTS, Marc Beck, Cinda Bame
SECRETARY, Jeremy Reed
TREASURER, Eric Haudenschield WEBSITE, www.owha.org
Hello Corral readers! As the 2025 year starts to come to an end, we hope you have had the chance to reflect on the 2025 year that you and your four legged friends have had. OWHA (Ohio Western Horse Association) has many things to be thankful for. OWHA recently had their monthly executive meeting on October 2 in Kenton, Ohio, at the Central Church of Christ. Many things were discussed as we wrapped up our year.
The Fall Round Up was held in Mt. Gilead, Ohio. We want to congratulate Krista Beck in earning the Adult High Point award and Bella Conyers, Easton Haudenschield, and Michaela Haudenschield on winning the youth team tournament. We want to thank the following for their sponsorships for our annual event: Bob and Wilma Fox, HandForged Vet, LLC., Marc and Krista Beck and family, Roger and Deb Fritch, Patterson Ponies, Caleb Burbach, Central Ohio Farmers Co-Op, Matthew Glass, DVM, Mitchell Trucking, Wolf Creek Feed, Barker’s Garage, Liberty Mill, The Dexter Company, Purple Indian Pizza, Cashmans, Pizzaburg.
Plans are in the works for the annual banquet and 2026 show dates. Please check our Facebook page for more details.
A Beautiful Day in the Park to Support Akron Children’s Hospital Centerra
Coop/Purina sponsors “Spur for the Cure” Benefit Trail Ride
by Ann Hornsby
The coffee was ready, the horse trailers started pulling into Camp Manotoc as the volunteers were busily helping riders get ready for the day! Centerra Co-Op and Purina Animal Nutrition were proud to present the 7th Annual Spur for the Cure Trail Ride on Saturday, September 6. This year’s event took place at Camp Manatoc in the Cuyahoga National Park on a beautiful, crisp morning! Once everyone got saddled and were ready to go, we had two groups take trail rides around the camp. We finished the day with a lunch, raffles, amazing swag bags, custom cookies, dessert and more!
Warren Soergel from Purina gave an informational program on understanding feed and what your horse needs. The highlight was a visit from ‘A Miracle Family’ who helped us understand the support and care Akron Children’s Hospital gives to families going through cancer treatment. Not a dry eye in the house after Lucy’s mom finished her story of the love and care they receive from all of the caregivers at the hospital. She said everyone in that hospital goes above and beyond to help all families. Lucy, who battled cancer, showed us her muscles when she told us about when she got to ring the bell to let us know she’s beat cancer! Again, our beneficiary is Akron Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Cancer Research program. Last year, we presented a check to Akron Children’s for $37,000!
Kathi Green, Equine Specialist for Centerra Coop said, “The event is so special. We know everyone has been touched by cancer in some way and this is something we all can do to help support those going through treatment and hopefully to find a cure. Our sponsors are amazing and we couldn’t do it without them, so please support them!” Purina, Centerra, Southside Discount Groceries, Sarchione Chevrolet, Illusion Printing, Hartt Equine LLC, Schneiders, Pyranha, Equine Essentials, Equus Now!, Redmond Minerals, Overlook Hill Farms, Keller Meats, Flying A Handmade, Dragonfly Farm, TopGun Farms, Wooster Bruch Co., Mrs. Pastures Muffins, Durvet, Triple R Stables, The Horsemen’s Corral and Hitchcock Stables. We also have many volunteers who donate baskets, products and time, we can’t thank you enough or do it without you!
Why Do We Do This?
Kathi explains, “This event was created to honor my late husband who passed away from cancer in 2016. Our motto is:
“One more mile... One more day”
Like so many others who have lost loved ones to cancer, I found a mantra to keep me strong. I would run one more mile hoping I had him just one more day”. We’ve all been touched by cancer in some way. Let’s help Akron Children’s Cancer Research Program find a cure so no one else suffers.
We are already planning for next year so get ready! We’ll have the date very soon. Plan on joining us for a fun trail ride, great friends, amazing swag bags and wonderful prizes! Stay tuned for more information or contact Kathi Green for more information, kgreen@ centerracoop.com or 440/321-9996.
Flatlanders Dressage & Combined Training Association, Inc.
September Fun Day
PRESIDENT, Pat Boutwell
VICE PRESIDENT, LeeAnn Kagy
TREASURER, Lisa Gross
SECRETARY, Jill Christopher
EMAIL, fdcta@aol.com
FACEBOOK, www.facebook.com/ groups/FDCTA
by MaryLou Paxton
Flatlander members enjoyed a ‘fun day’ on Saturday, September 6 at the home of Jonna Shumway. Jonna was riding her awesome Arab/warmblood, Sophie. The day was bright and beautiful, though slightly brisk for an early autumn day.
Several members did ‘ride a tests’ critiqued by our guest judge, Jill Jewett of the University of Findlay English Equestrian program. Thank you Jill for your generosity in volunteering your time and expertise! The group of spectators was able to gain knowledge also just by watching the participants ride their tests and hearing Jill’s gentle critiques.
After leaving Jonna’s beautiful dressage arena, the riders took their horses on a well deserved trail ride around her property. When the horses were untacked and settled, we all went inside for a tasty lunch and a chance to enjoy each other’s company talking, what else?, horses. Before we left for the day, our gracious hostess gifted each of us with a comb/hoof pick all in one tool. It really seems that we should have been gifting her!
Many thanks to Jonna and Jill for providing us with a really fun ‘fun day’.
Jonna’s fun ride.
Jonna’s fun ride.
Jonna’s fun ride.
Health Insurance That Makes Sense for Every Horse
by Gina Fortunato
ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance programs for horses are stand-alone, health insurance-only plans, meaning the purchase of mortality insurance is not required to enroll, and the amount paid for a horse is not a determinant in their eligibility to be insured, making the plans fitting for any companion horse.
Pet health insurance helps pet parents say “yes” to their veterinarian’s recommendations. ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance program for horses is designed to lessen concern about the costs of veterinary care so that horse owners can focus on getting their horse the care they need.
Horse owners can select one of two plan options to best fit their individual horses’ needs. One of the plans, Colic + Accidents, includes coverage for the exam fees, diagnostics and treatment of colic episodes, and injuries and emergencies related to accidents, such as trailer-accident injuries, hoof abscesses, and toxic ingestions.
The second option horse owners can choose is Colic + Accidents + Illnesses. It covers the costs of exam fees, diagnostics and treatment of colic episodes, accidents, and illnesses—from minor illnesses like the common cold to major illnesses like cancer. Hereditary and
congenital conditions are also included in the plan’s illness coverage. When enrolling in an ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance program plan, horse owners can choose from a range of deductible, coverage limit, and reimbursement percentage options. The ability to customize plans makes it even easier to find a plan that fits every horse owner’s budget.
• Deductible options of $100, $250, and $500 are available. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance program plan deductibles are annual, so a customer only has to meet it once in a 12-month policy period.
• Horse owners can also select an annual coverage limit of $3,000, $5,000, or $7,000. The coverage limits for ASPCA Pet Health Insurance program plans reset every year.
• The reimbursement percentage choices are 90 percent, 80 percent, and 70 percent of eligible veterinary costs.
For a little more per month, horse owners can add one of two preventive care coverage options—Routine Preventive Care and Platinum Preventive Care. Reimbursements for covered preventive services are based on scheduled amounts. Covered preventive services include dental floating, annual wellness exams, a rabies or tetanus vaccination, and other things that help protect horses from getting sick.
Caring for a horse can take a lot of time. With ASPCA Pet Health Insurance program, quoting, enrolling, and submitting claims is quick and easy. And when you spend less time keeping your horse its healthiest, you and your horse can spend more time together doing what you both love! If interested in getting a free quote or enrolling your horse in an ASPCA Pet Health Insurance plan, visit ProtectYourHorse.com.
Gina Fortunato, MBA, is a lifelong animal lover and horse enthusiast who shares her farm with two horses, three indoor cats, and a pair of barn cats. With over 13 years of leadership experience in the animal health and pet insurance industries, she brings a unique perspective on how equine and companion animals enrich our lives. Gina is especially passionate about making veterinary care accessible through pet insurance, helping horse and pet owners strengthen the human–animal bond. Beyond her professional work, she serves on the boards of CATalyst Council and Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary, where she advocates for animal welfare and promotes responsible ownership.
Hydration Through the Seasons Water For Horses Part 3
by Sara L. Mastellar, PhD, Associate Professor and Equine Programs Coordinator at Ohio State ATI, Wooster, Ohio
Elizabeth
Share, PhD, Livestock Specialist, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Haley Campbell, MS, Lecturer, Ohio State ATI, Wooster, Ohio
The following is excerpted from the factsheet ‘Water for Horses’. The full text and references, along with other resources, can be found here: https://ansci.osu. edu/extension/factsheets-0.
Weather and Climate Related Watering Tips
Water Temperature: The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) recommends offering water between 45 and 65°F to encourage optimal water consumption, especially in the winter. In hot climates, cool water is sometimes recommended (Morales-Briceño et al., 2020), even though offering icy water (~33°F) has not been shown to increase water consumption in the summer (McDonnell and Kristula, 1996).
balance in horses and contributing factors for water input and output.
Cold Weather: Even in the winter, horses must be offered clean, unfrozen drinking water. Frozen water sources increase the risk of colic. Eating snow is a slower rate of water intake compared to drinking and requires more effort and energy. Horses must spend time and energy melting the snow to use it and may lose condition over time, even if they do not develop colic. If keeping water fluid and unfrozen during the winter months is a challenge, consider installing an automatic waterer with a heater. Ensure that the heater is operated according to instructions to minimize fire risk. If running electric and water lines is not possible for the property, consider using a float in the bucket or trough to disturb surface tension of the water source to help keep it fluid. However, in extreme conditions, a float may not be enough to keep open access to water. The color of the water container can affect the temperature of the water (Brown, 2022). Dark buckets or troughs in direct sunlight are advantageous in the winter when trying to keep water from freezing. Insulating buckets or stock tanks is another measure that can help delay freezing without using electricity. Setting troughs into the ground insulates with soil but makes it harder to dump the trough for cleaning. Buckets made of rubber generally provide more insulation than those made of plastic, and they flex to break and remove ice more easily.
Hot Weather: Opposingly, in the hot summer months, horses also need to be offered plenty of fresh water to aid in body temperature regulation and to replenish water lost in sweat. Horses in heat stress will drink a little bit every few minutes to cool themselves. Idle horses may drink 1.3 gal per 100 lb of body weight (13 L per 100 kg) on hot days, but they will drink more when exercised (Kentucky Equine Research, 2016).
Stimulating Drinking
Something as simple as providing fresh clean water more often can encourage drinking. Clean buckets, troughs, and waterers regularly to make sure there is not an accumulation of algae, biofilm, or other contaminants that can cause a decrease in palatability. Some horses may prefer to drink out of a bucket over an automatic waterer
(Nyman and Dahlborn, 2001), so be aware that a change in how water is provided can affect intake.
Provision of salt or electrolytes can increase the thirst response but be sure to provide a bucket of water free of electrolytes alongside any water with electrolyte mixtures or added salt (Enke et al., 2022). Horses that object to water with electrolytes mixed in will become even more dehydrated if that is their only drinking option.
Flavoring may also encourage or discourage a horse from drinking. According to a study conducted at the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, horses will usually choose plain water over some flavored water (flavors in study included sweet feed, peppermint, or apple), except when the water is flavored with sweet feed (Van Diest et al., 2021).
Horses that are changing water sources may not drink water from the new source if it has a different taste. This is of particular concern for horses traveling for competition, trail riding, or evacuation for a natural disaster. If the horse will only be away from home for a short period of time, consider packing a supply of water that the horse is used to drinking. For horses that will be away longer, flavoring agents can be used at home ahead of time to acclimate the horse and then used to mask the different smell and taste of new water sources. If owners or managers are concerned about water consumption and other strategies have not worked (e.g., adding salt or electrolytes), another option is to soak processed forages like alfalfa cubes or pellets. This can be a great way to increase water and forage consumption in winter or in horses that struggle to chew long stemmed forages. Keep in mind that colder temperatures may cause soaked feeds to freeze while warmer temperatures increase the risk of mold. Make sure that the soaked feed is consumed in a timely manner to avoid these risks.
Take Home Message
Climatic differences and alternate water sources can change horse drinking behavior and horses should be observed to ensure that the horse remains hydrated. If you missed them, be sure to check out parts one and two of this series in the September and October issues of the Horsemen’s Corral!
Water
Graphic by Sara L. Mastellar.
PRESIDENT, Kelly Chapman
VICE PRESIDENT, Stephanie Tarr
SECRETARY, Justin Miller
TREASURER, Susan Croft
EMAIL, premiermountntrail@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.premiermountntrail.com
by Madison Eshelman
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a little crisper, we’re excited to welcome a brand-new season of riding, friendship, and fun on the trail! Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors with your horse and your Premier Mount N Trail family.
Our winter series is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to
Autumn Rides and Winter Fun Ahead
see everyone back on the course. Be sure to mark your calendars for the first two shows of our winter series: November 1 and December 6!
Each event offers a great chance to challenge yourself, build confidence, and share the trail with a supportive
Colorado Ranger Horse Association
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.
The 52nd Colorado Ranger Horse National Show was
community of riders. Whether you’re competing for points or just joining for the fun, there’s something for everyone! This is also a great opportunity to add to your RIDE hours before our banquet in January.
CRHA National Show Results
September 20-21. The show was held at Clinton County Fairgrounds, 96 Racetrack Road, Mill Hall, Pa. On Saturday after showing there is always a banquet with members.
2025 NATIONAL SHOW RESULTS
GRAND CHAMPION STALLION:
Celestial Victory Owned by Candice Cangemi, NY
RESERVE CHAMPION STALLION:
Coosa’s Fancy Print Owned by Catherine Martens-Nitschke, MI
JR. GRAND CHAMPION STALLION: CC Victorious Gunslinger Owned by Candice Cangemi, NY
JR. RESERVE CHAMPION STALLION: PRR CashNinOnElegance Owned by Barb Summerson and KD Winkleman, PA
GRAND CHAMPION GELDING: THE WINGMASTER Owned by Veronica Lindsey, GA
RESERVE CHAMPION GELDING: PRR Zip N Brite Eyes Owned by Charmaine Wulff, PA
GRAND CHAMPION MARE: Belle’s Legacy Owned by Amanda Wikman, NH
RESERVE CHAMPION MARE: PRR Lil Money Maker Owned by Alisha Bubb, PA
JR. GRAND CHAMPION MARE: Walking in Faith Owned by Bruce Bagnall, PA
JR. RESERVE CHAMPION MARE: PRR Sunday Surprise Owned by Barb Summerson and KD Winkleman, PA
HIGH POINT AWARDS
YA LEADLINE GRAND: Kaia Wikman Showing Belle’s Legacy
YA LEADLINE RESERVE: Hayden Smith Showing THE WINGMASTER
YA JR. GRAND: Hadleigh Doolin Showing KK Leggs Diamund
YA JR. RESERVE: Mason Digregorio
Showing Kits Bright Sun
YA SR. GRAND: Makenna Campbell
Showing PRR Zip N Brite Eyes
YA SR. RESERVE: Emma Snow
Showing Splash Almighty
GELDING GRAND: Honey’s Red Star Owned by Katie Montgomery, PA
We want to thank all of our members and volunteers for a great summer and fall show season. Here’s to cooler weather, colorful trails, and more great adventures ahead!
GELDING RESERVE: THE WINGMASTER Owned by Veronica Lindsey, GA
MARE GRAND: Belle’s Legacy Owned by Amanda Wikman, NH
MARE RESERVE: This Girlz All Chrome Owned by Bruce Bagnall and Patty Nanz, PA
STALLION GRAND: Coosa’s Fancy Print Owned by Catherine MartensNitschke, MI
STALLION RESERVE: Celestial Victory Owned by Candice Cangemi, NY
GYMKHANA GRAND: Belle’s Legacy Owned by Amanda Wikman, NH
GYMKHANA RESERVE: KK Leggs Diamund Owned by Toni and Jerry Lukavich, PA
PLEASURE GRAND: THE WINGMASTER Owned by Veronica Lindsey, GA
PLEASURE RESERVE: Honey’s Red Star Owned by Katie Montgomery, PA
ADULT WALK/TROT RESERVE: Phaedra Bower Showing Comet’s Red Devil
MOST VERSATILE: Belle’s Legacy Owned by Amanda Wikman, NH
View From the Cheap Seats
Turn Confusion Into Communication, All You Lil’ Birdies
by Sarah Vas
I’m foot loose and fancy free now without a farm to tend to on the daily. I’m a Lady of Leisure. You also may have noticed that my monthly ad space has undergone a few changes, the biggest being my ‘platform’. Sentimentality for our family farm name prompted a rebrand rather than a full stop. Winfield Wit and Wisdom just felt right, like my next logical square on the game board. Sure, I’ve always brought the wit to our rows in the Cheap Seats. Any previous wisdom was rarely focused on traditional training methods. But, folks, I’ve written 150 monthly columns in a row. Let’s change it up a little! I’ll still do my darnedest to keep it light but from now on, I’m mixing in a little educational material now and again just so the Wit and Wisdom doesn’t feel like Imposter Syndrome. Besides, I really, really miss teaching. Some years back, I had come
up with an idea. It was born from my need to teach students how to communicate with their horses using more clarity and specific measures. As far as I know, there’s nothing else out there like this. If there is, it hasn’t reached the mainstream horse industry. But who are we kidding? I’m never gonna write this thing into a whole book. So, here ya go, friends.
I call it the Seven Variables. Whenever we’re in the horse’s vicinity, we’re communicating to them whether we intend to or not. I can break down every second of that ‘conversation’ into the variables of Posture, Position, Pause, Artificial Aids, Sound, Speed, and Energy. Think of yourself as a stereo system with dials controlling these seven layers. Imagine turning the ‘volume’ up or down on any one or more of these variables to refine your message. There are an infinite number of combinations
in volume or intensity amongst the variables. To apply this methodology, imagine observing the situation from a bird’s eye view. The critical factor is including yourself in that view, like looking down into a box watching a scene playing out between you and your horse. This frame of mind helps you have an objective eye on your own actions to better understand what your horse was responding to and why.
POSTURE. This variable encompasses your whole body and how you move it in real time. Is your posturing matching your intended message? For example, your horse is spiraling inward on the lunge line, crowding your space and dragging the line in the dirt. Even ‘experienced’ equestrians can be seen habitually stepping backwards away from the encroaching horse while frantically grabbing tangled lunge line. Backing away further draws the horse towards you! In that situation, the more effective posture is one strong step right back at the horse, perhaps leaning your chest forward like you’re the bigger, tougher nag. This is Posture; what your body looks like to the horse.
POSITION. Remember, you’re looking down at the scene playing out between you and your horse. Position is the distance between you both. Using the lunge line again, your horse is crowding in on you. Stepping into the horse says, ‘I’m also closing the distance between you and I. You should move your fanny back out onto that lunging circle, ma’am’. Position – where are you, or your pertinent body parts, in relation to the horse and what does that say.
PAUSE. This one is hard for humans. It literally means End Your Cue and just wait. Sometimes, your pause isn’t long enough. Have a clear flow to your cues and then just shush. Let your horse tell you what it heard you say. Pause.
ARTIFICIAL AIDS. This could be anything from tack to tarps to the very walls of the arena you’re in. It’s stuff that isn’t you. These aren’t always bad things but observe when the aids are helping or hindering you. Do you need it? Can you and your horse communicate with the
same clarity or even better if one or more of the artificial aids are not in the picture?
SOUND. Clucking, kissing, verbal cues, the crack of a whip. Sound is another variable that gets worn out. Observe how you use sound and try turning the dial up, down, or off completely. Where you inject the sound amongst the flow of your variables in real time can make all the difference. SPEED. You probably wave your arms fast when a horse is about to plow you over versus when you’re acclimating a horse to a new, scary object like clippers. I’ve never seen a horse calmly accept learning to tolerate getting their ears shaved when the handler is frantically waving clippers in their face. Speed; maybe your variables need to slow down, speed up, or have incremental increases of speed with big, healthy pauses in between.
ENERGY. This is the most critical and most often misunderstood. Again, waving your arms at a horse (posture) quickly (speed) when the horse is bearing down on you at the pasture gate (position), hollering Whoa (sound) and swinging a lead rope over your head (artificial aid) while expressing intense Because You Mean It emotions (energy) is how you tell a horse not to run you over. Oh, the Pause occurs once the horse has backed off. You’ve ended your Get Back message so you and your horse can contemplate your life choices. All these same variables dialed down respectively and delivered with a timid energy are going to tell the
PRESIDENT, Leanne; VICE PRESIDENT (CONTEST), Anna; VICE PRESIDENT (PLEASURE), Samantha; SECRETARY, Francine; TREASURER, Ruth
EMAIL, massillonsaddleclub@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.massillonsaddleclub.org
November is the culmination of the 2025 Massillon Saddle Club (MSC) show season with the November 20th Year End Awards Banquet and Election of 2026 Officers held at Nickajack Farms. The banquet is open to everyone (members, non-members, friends, family, sponsors, and, general public) by reservation only. To ensure that there is enough food for all, the banquet is by reservation only; we aren’t able to offer admission at the door. In addition to amazing food, and, Loretta’s seemingly endless desserts, the banquet is an opportunity to congratulate all of the award recipients on a successful show season, and, a chance to win some fantastic raffle prizes. The MSC Annual
Returning Programs in 2026
Scholarship award and Trail Riding program award will also be presented. Please see the MSC Facebook page for banquet reservation form. The deadline for reservations is November 6. Massillon Saddle Club has many ways that they ‘give back’, not only to the community, but also to its members. Massillon Saddle Club has an annual scholarship that is awarded to an MSC member. The scholarship fund was created by Patricia Diss as a way to support our members who are pursuing post-secondary schooling. MSC funds the scholarship with a percentage of all income. For more information, please see the MSC website. 2026 will bring the continuation of the trail riding program, and, the medal buy back. The trail riding program is a way for MSC members to be eligible for year end awards while enjoying the many riding trails in Ohio and other states. The 2026 program begins January 1 with an MSC membership and trail program fee. Each rider will track their trail miles/hours through a free app, and will turn in their
accumulated trail time in October. The top three participants will receive a year end award at the 2026 banquet. Trail time is accumulated per rider; each rider may ride multiple horses if they choose to do so, with the combined trail time accumulated under the rider’s name. The app for the trail time is free to all; you don’t need to be an MSC member to be able to use the app. However, if you would like to be eligible for a year end award, you must be an MSC member, and have submitted the trail program fee. For more information, please see the MSC website and Facebook page.
as well as 2025, you may be eligible to add your name to the potential candidates. Elected officers and trustees must be able to attend the monthly meetings, and will be expected to help with the various events and shows. MSC is accepting donations of any size or type, as award items for year end banquet raffles, or show day special awards, If you have a business that you would like to highlight, please consider a sponsorship, or, a small donation of your company’s product(s) as a raffle item at the Year End Awards Banquet. All donations are gratefully accepted! Please let us know what events you would like to see in 2026.
The Massillon Saddle Club/ Wayne County Saddle Club tack swap will return. Please watch the MSC Facebook page for the 2026 date.
The medal buy back program will continue in 2026. Do you have too many medallions from your many class 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 through the last point show. Please see the MSC Facebook page for additional program details. And, many thanks for any returned medallions!
If you are interested in becoming an officer or trustee, please let us know. If you were 18 years of age or older by January 1, 2025, and, if you were an active member in 2024
Do you have any suggestions for any new events, or classes? What did you like about the shows? How can we improve them? What types of year end awards would you like to see? All suggestions are welcome. If you are willing to help make your idea possible, please let us know. MSC is limited only by the number of volunteers willing to help.
Until next month, MSC hopes everyone enjoys the start of the holiday season, late fall trail rides, and time with family and friends. May each of your days be filled with happy horse adventures!
~Your Friends With Massillon Saddle Club, Inc.
View From the Cheap Seats
Continued from page 28
horse you aren’t really trying to stop it.
So there you go. A quantitative way to measure, categorize, adjust, and refine your communication style. This works well for those that need to know how things work to feel safe or those struggling to understand arbitrary training concepts like contact or feel or softness. Awareness of what you’re ‘saying’ becomes the fuel for your horse’s potential response. These seven variables are a tangible recipe for not only
better and Why things suddenly make sense to you, the student, and your horse!
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
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Mid-Ohio Marauders
Mid-Ohio Marauders September Fall Battle of the Bandits Shoots
PRESIDENT, Tim Calvin
VICE PRESIDENT, Missy DeForest
SECRETARY, Judy Foster
TREASURER, Laurie Maris
PHONE, 740/206-7214
EMAIL, midohiomarauders@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.midohiomarauders.com
by Steve Keech
FALL BATTLE OF THE BANDITS I SATURDAY RESULTS: LIMITED WRANGLER, Nathaniel Hewitt; OPEN WRANGLER, Raielon Evans; LIMITED RIFLE, Dale Goebel;
OPEN RIFLE, JD Hughes; LIMITED SHOTGUN, Nicholas Hall; OPEN SHOTGUN, JD Hughes; RESERVE SENIOR COWGIRL, Ginger Mitchell; RESERVE SENIOR COWBOY, Eric Nelson; RESERVE COWBOY, Rock Clark; RESERVE COWGIRL, Marcy Luttrell; OVERALL COWGIRL, Melissa Shaner; OVERALL OVERALL, Jared Penley.
FALL BATTLE OF THE BANDITS II SUNDAY RESULTS: LIMITED WRANGLER, Nathaniel Hewitt; RESERVE SENIOR COWGIRL, Karen Hughes; SENIOR COWGIRL, Ginger Mitchell; RESERVE SENIOR COWBOY, David Mitchell; RESERVE COWBOY, Tim Calvin; RESERVE COWGIRL, Kierstin Fritsch; OVERALL COWGIRL, Stacy Thacker; OVERALL OVERALL, Jared Penley.
We also celebrated a couple move ups, Donna Shade from SL1 to SL2 and Melissa Shaner from L4 to L5, look for dance videos on Facebook!
As always, if you are interested in joining the MidOhio Marauders, the central Ohio club for CMSA, visit us at Midohiomarauders.com or on Facebook at Mid-Ohio Marauders. See you soon!
The Marauders kicked off the 2026 season the weekend of October 24-26 with their Year End Fiesta. We will held our year end awards banquet on Saturday evening.
PRESIDENT, Lauren Smith 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 each month. During the summer the meeting is held at the Horse Park Shelter. Meeting locations starting in November will be at 411 Pittsburg Avenue in Mount Vernon, Ohio; November 11, December 8, January 12, 2026, and February 9, 2026. Our current schedule for the balance of this year is as follows. All the fun shows to start at
9:30 a.m; with the showmanship classes first and contesting to start at 1 p.m.
NOVEMBER 1: Halloween show
Mark your calendars and 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 and Healthy Center Massage, Therapy and Acupuncture. We are starting to schedule the 2026 season. If you have any suggestions for events, please let us know.
David Mitchell, Melissa Shaner, Jared Penley, Marcy Luttrell and Rock Clark. September wranglers.
Tim Calvin, Kiersten Fritsch, Stacy Thacker, and Jared Penley.
Gorgeous home with 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 2 half baths. Separate In-Law suite with private deck. Barn with 18 stalls, 60x100 indoor arena. 100x120 outdoor arena and 8 separate turnouts, 20 acres + free gas plus royalties.
Located in the desirable community of Roaming Shores, with access to Lake Roaming Rock — ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The community also offers two pools, two playgrounds and a marina.
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. Call before you haul.
NOVEMBER 2025
NOV. 1 — Halloween Fun Show, Knox County Horse Park, 7500 Thayer Rd., Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: kchp.mtv.ohio@ gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/ KnoxCountyHorseParkMountVernonOH
NOV. 1 — Old Geezer Endurance Ride, Caesars Creek State Park, Waynesville, OH. FMI: Tina Ponder, 937-974-4063, tina. ponder@khnetwork.org, www.oaats.org
NOV. 1 — 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, 270-646-8495
NOV. 1-2 — Ohio & Indiana Jr. High & High School Rodeo, Bullen Equestrian Center, Eaton, OH. FMI: 937-603-2197, www. facebook.com/bullenequestriancenter
NOV. 1-2 — Premier Mount N Trail Winter Series Mt. Trail Show and Trail Open Schooling, Shenanigans Stables, 7310 Abbey Rd. NE, Carrollton, OH. FMI: Laura, 814-434-0914, https:// premiermountntrail.com/
NOV. 2 — Harvest Hoedown Barrel Race, Pura Vida Farm, 867 S. Benson Rd., Frankfort, KY. FMI: Brandi, 502-220-8101
NOV. 7-9 — Ranch Horse Association of Kentucky Cow Horse Cup & Dry Work Challenge, Lakeside Arena, Frankfort, KY. FMI: fluhrequineproductions.com
NOV. 8 — OHC State Membership Meeting, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Newark Elks #391, 73 N. 3rd St., Newark, OH. FMI: rosemary4medinaohc@gmail.com, ohconline.com
NOV. 8 — Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: 330-674-6188, www.mthopeauction.com
NOV. 8 — 17th Annual Chilly Ride, Pennyrile State Forest, Dawson Springs, KY. FMI: 270-881-7931
NOV. 8-9 — Joann Williams Western Dressage Clinic, Brecksville Stables, Brecksville, OH. FMI: www.nodarider.org
NOV. 8-10 — Jesse Peters Horsemanship Clinic, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 10701 Henry Lucas Rd., Grand Rapids, OH. FMI: Mary Pinzone, 804-426-4878, 1mapinzone@gmail.com
NOV. 9 — Blue Lakes Farm 2025-2026 Winter Series Pleasure Show, 14037 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: 440-564-7303, https://www.facebook.com/tom.snyder.18
NOV. 14-15 — Green River Gaited Horse Classic, Central Kentucky Ag Expo Center, Wallace Wilkerson Blvd., Liberty, KY. FMI: Jesse Green, 270-634-0646
NOV. 14-16 — Oak Penings Classic Friday Nigh Jackpot (14th) and The Oak Openings Classic (15-16th), The Show Arena, 1640 CR B, Swanton, OH. FMI: Joe, 419-290-3700, theshowarena@yahoo.com
NOV. 14-16 — Kendra Clark Horse & Rider Balance In Motion Clinic— WPDA, Greenmoor Equestrian Center, Canonsburg, PA. FMI: wpda.club
Early Christmas Auction BUCKEYE
MINI HORSE, DONKEY, PONY & HORSE MIXED SALE
8:30 a.m. Tack & Equipment
NOV. 14-30 — Falling Leaves to Frozen Trees Online Open Horse Show (Turkey Trot). FMI: Victoria Hill, 812-878-0216
NOV. 15 — Gobble Till You Wobble Endurance Ride, Wayne National Forest, Elkins Creek Horse Camp, Pedro, OH. FMI: Mollie Krumlaw, 513-315-5907, mkrumlaw@gmail.com, www.oaats.org
NOV. 23 — Winter Barrels Award Series, Buckhorn Ranch Arena, 108 Simmons Lane, West Sunbury, PA. FMI: Dave, 724290-6949, buckhornoffice.108@gmail.com
NOV. 28-29 — Mid-Ohio Equine Expo & Yearling Standardbred Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: Dublin Valley Farms, 330-231-6209
NOV. 29 — Early Christmas AuctionBuckeye Mini Horse, Donkey, Pony & Horse Mixed Sale, 8:30 a.m., Wayne County Fairgrounds, 199 Vanover Street, Wooster, OH. FMI: Daniel Schrock, 330-763-0905, schrocksauctioneering@gmail.com
DEC. 5-7 — Premier Mount N Trail Winter Series Mt. Trail Show and Trail Open Schooling, Shenanigans Stables, 7310 Abbey Rd. NE, Carrollton, OH. FMI: Laura, 814-434-0914, https:// premiermountntrail.com/
DEC. 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: 270-646-8495
DEC. 6-7 — Champions All Breed Association Open Show, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: 937-324-4353, www. championscenterarena.com
DEC. 7 — Blue Lakes Farm 2025-2026 Winter Series Pleasure Show, 14037 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: 440-564-7303, https://www.facebook.com/tom.snyder.18
Commission Rates is as follows: Each animal $25 plus 10%, Tack 20%, Saddles & Carts 10%, No sales $25. Veterinarian will be available day of sale for Coggins: $30.
Terms of Sale: Cash or GOOD Check with proper ID. Out-of-State checks must have letter of credit from your bank. Health papers required on out-of-state animals! For More Information: Auctioneer Daniel Schrock Ohio License #2015000116 (330) 763-0905 • schrocksauctioneering@gmail.com
Nearby Places to Stay Best Western (330) 264-7750 Super 8 (330) 439-5766 Hampton Inn (330) 345-4424 All Animals Must Have Halter & Lead Rope.
NOV. 20 — Massillon Saddle Club Year End Awards Banquet, 5:30 p.m., Nickajack Farm, 2955 Manchester Ave. NW, North Lawrence, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@gmail.com
NOV. 21-23 — Eastern Draft Breeders Event LLC, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: 330-447-8500
NOV. 21-23 — 21st Cowboy Christmas Open Horse Show, MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI. FMI: 989-763-3276, cowboychristmas@yahoo.com
NOV. 22 — Blue Lakes Farm 2025-2026 Winter Series Contest Show, 14037 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: 440-564-7303, https://www.facebook.com/tom.snyder.18
NOV. 22 — Foster Equine 25-26 Fun Show, Stonegate Equine Facility, 26236 Smith Rd., Coolville, OH. FMI: 740-291-3556, FosterEquineRescue@gmail.com
NOV. 22-23 — Train with Terry Myers, The Show Arena, 1640 CR B, Swanton, OH. FMI: www.theshowarena.com
DEC. 7 — Winter Barrels Award Series, Buckhorn Ranch Arena, 108 Simmons Lane, West Sunbury, PA. FMI: Dave, 724290-6949, buckhornoffice.108@gmail.com
DEC. 12 — Christmas Horse & Pony Sale, Blue Grass Stockyards, 4561 Iron Works Pk., Lexington, KY. FMI: Kaylee Highlander, 859-588-3879
DEC. 12-28 — Falling Leaves to Frozen Trees Online Open Horse Show (Santa’s Sleigh Ride). FMI: Victoria Hill, 812-878-0216
DEC. 13 — Blue Lakes Farm 2025-2026 Winter Series Contest Show, 14037 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: 440-564-7303, https://www.facebook.com/tom.snyder.18
All Youth under 18 years must wear a helmet at all times when riding in the park. See website for all class descriptions and park rules. All Rules Per Creek Side. High Point Awards Year End By Creek Side Horse Park & OQHA Each award prizes! CSHP Awards Overall at year end. Judge’s decisions are FINAL. Unsportsmanlike conduct is grounds for dismissal and forfeiture of all fees and entries paid.
Creek Side Horse Park or OQHA are Not responsible for damages/loss or injury to exhibitors, animals, spectators, or personal property.
No refunds will be given for scratched classes day of show. 18yrs and under can not be handling or showing studs on the grounds.
Certified OQHA
Mountain Trail Course ~ Horse Obstacle Course~
Class Pricing: Adults: $20
**Aug 3 Championship: $30
Youth: $15
***Aug 3 Championship: $25
Grounds Fee:
$10 per horse
(Fee waived with Annual CSHP Park Pass)
Camping: $20 each night (Fee waived with Annual CSHP Park Pass)
Corrals:
$10 per day, per horse
Corrals are outdoors, open air limited # Day Before Practice Fee: $25 Per rider/handler (Fee waived with Annual CSHP Park Pass)
Placings:
Open classes (classes that have “Open” in the class name) are awarded any listed added monies and 50% of the entries for 1st through 3rd place along with a ribbon up to 6th place.
All other classes will be awarded ribbons 1st through 6th place
Water onsite for horses Food stand available at shows
No one is required to hold a membership for OQHA to show for the day. However; to be eligible for any year end awards you must sign up prior to entering in the classes for points to count. Must be a OQHA member to earn CSHP year end awards as well. Minimum of 5 Shows to be eligible for year end awards. Creek Side year end—needs to be 5 at Creek Side.
OQHA points are only earned at CSHP. All 6 shows will be counted for high point year end.
Sharing the Trail: Safety with Hikers, Bicyclists, and Others
by Robert Eversole
One truth is constant: we do not have the trails to ourselves. Riders, hikers, bicyclists, runners, and wildlife watchers all share the same spaces, and how we handle encounters can mean the difference between a good ride and a dangerous incident.
Most interactions are positive. I have shared a cold soda with a weary throughhiker who nearly wept with gratitude. I have swapped fishing reports with an angler while my mule craned his neck toward the trout on the line. These are the moments that make trails special. But sometimes things go sideways. Horses can spook at a bicycle gliding up from behind or leap uphill when startled by trekking poles. What feels casual to another trail user can become a scramble for us.
Understanding the Horse’s Mind
A startled horse is more likely to flee uphill than downhill. That is why riders should always ask other trail users to step to the downhill
side. From there, a horse sees them as less threatening and the risk of collision drops.
A calm voice reassures horses, while a helmeted cyclist in mirrored sunglasses can look an awful lot like Darth Vader bearing down. Most hikers and bikers have no idea. Many have never been around horses at all. From their perspective, a mounted rider looks big, strange, and imposing. If you have lived in an urban environment, suddenly sharing a narrow trail with half a ton of hooves and attitude can feel overwhelming.
The Burden, and the Opportunity
My mentor, Ed H., taught me the best way to bridge that gap: start with a “Howdy.” Ed was a champion of greetings. His quick hellos often turned into half-hour trail-side conversations. He knew every encounter was a chance to build goodwill, and kindness could turn strangers into allies.
As riders, we are responsible for safety. We manage prey animals with a flight instinct, so we must lead the interaction. Ed’s method made it simple: smile, say hello, and clearly explain what needs to happen. A calm “Howdy, could you step to the downhill side for me?” is often all it takes.
Three Simple Steps
Ed never complicated things. These basics still apply:
Stop your horse and take control.
Talk to your animal and the other user. Ask: “Can you step to the downhill side and keep talking as we go by?”
Move past only once the person is downhill and your horse has room.
It is simple, but it requires us to be proactive. Most hikers and cyclists do not know that stepping uphill can be dangerous. Asking prevents confusion and keeps the trail safe.
A Culture of Courtesy
For Ed, a “Howdy” was more than politeness—it was education. If we want safer trails, we need to meet other users where they are: on the trail, in their clubs, and in their communities. A quick hello or showing up for a trail-maintenance day can open doors. If even one person learns how to act around horses, it may prevent an accident. Trails are shared. None of us own them, and all of us have a stake in keeping them safe. Ed’s half-hour “Howdys” may not be practical for everyone, but the spirit behind them is. A smile, a wave, and a request to step downhill can turn tension into safety. More importantly, they build a trail culture of courtesy that ripples outward.
As equestrians, we have been given the gift of seeing the land from the back of an animal. With that privilege comes responsibility. Share your knowledge with patience and respect. Keep yourself safe, and help ensure future riders, hikers, and cyclists inherit trails rooted in goodwill.
So in honor of Ed and those who came before us, let’s pledge this: greet first, ask clearly, ride with courtesy. A smile and a Howdy can turn fear into friendship, and maybe even save a life.
For trail maps, safety tips, and the largest horse-camping directory in the U.S., visit www.TrailMeister.com. You can also find my books The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping, It’s a Cinch!, and Daily Wisdom from the Saddle on Amazon.
Western Reserve Carriage Association
End of the Year for WRCA
PRESIDENT, Barbara King
VICE PRESIDENT, Michele Steven
TREASURER, Shellie Kwitkowski
SECRETARY, Cathy Rhoades
WEBSITE, Westernreservecarriage.com
by Cathy Rhoades
Our final meeting is on November 16 at Brushwood Lodge in Summit County Metropark. We will be meeting around 11:30 a.m. with lunch at noon. Western Reserve Carriage Association (WRCA) will be providing the main dish and members are invited to bring a side or dessert. Plates, silverware, coffee and water will be provided. We will have a door prize drawing for items we have purchased from Big Dee’s. September 28 was our Observatory Park Picnic Drive. This park has a lovely wooded
trail that two turnouts drove. Seven members came to enjoy the food and the Observatory Garden.
Many other members were attending the Indiana CDE in Edinburgh, Ind., that same weekend.
The National Drive October 7-12 was well attended by our members. Stacey Giere was a clinician giving seminars and
Michigan Trail Riders Association, Inc.
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
The Michigan Trail Riders Association underwent some changes over the last year and a half. We have a new president, trail boss, secretary, treasurer,
lessons during the week. Bev and Dave Patrick sponsored a Pie Night—delicious desserts while working in teams on a horse quiz. This is a great opportunity to learn, drive or ride your equine and make new friends. November is also nomination month for our board positions.
Both Janet Yosay and Barbara King will be leaving the board
Changes Within the MTRA
and bus driver. Our board includes some younger members coming in with fresh ideas too. We have members who have stepped up with ideas that have improved our trail ride experience as well. We all have one common goal: To make the rides fun again!
Our 2026 ride calendar will be coming out in our December newsletter. Please check it out and consider becoming a member. The membership period runs from January 1 through December 31. You can sign up for a 2026 membership
starting in November. You must be a member to participate on our rides. Your membership fee is used for trail and campground maintenance and improvements. We also use our membership to apply for grants and donations.
The DNR and Forest Service use our membership numbers and ride participation for improvements as
so we are looking for new people who would like to help with ideas and programs for our club. Board activity is usually a conference call or email. Please consider joining us!
Hope your holidays are full of joy and good food! January or February will be our first meeting of the new year. Details to be announced.
well. Even if you ride in other areas, please consider joining their local horse trail associations. In the trail riding world, we are all in this together. We count on participation and memberships to have places to camp and ride now and in the future.
Find more information about the MTRA at mtra.org
Corral Calendar
Continued from page 36
DEC. 13 — Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: 330-674-6188, www.mthopeauction.com
DEC. 13 — 7th Annual Christmas in The Village All Horse Parade, 4 p.m., Roger’s Park, 210 S. High St., South Lebanon, OH. FMI: Bella, 513-349-6406, isabellaledford2@icloud.com
DEC. 13 — Foster Equine 25-26 Fun Show, Stonegate Equine Facility, 26236 Smith Rd., Coolville, OH. FMI: 740-291-3556, FosterEquineRescue@gmail.com
DEC. 18-19 — North American Standardbred Mixed Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: 330-201-5679, northamericanmixedsale@gmail.com,www. northamericanstandardbredmixedsale.com
DEC. 21 — Winter Barrels Award Series, Buckhorn Ranch Arena, 108 Simmons Lane, West Sunbury, PA. FMI: Dave, 724290-6949, buckhornoffice.108@gmail.com
Do you have your show dates set or an Equine Event coming up in 2026? Email them to michelle@thehorsemenscorral.com and we’ll add them to the Corral Calendar!
PRESIDENT, Tim Snapp
VICE PRESIDENT, Mark Peterson
TREASURER, Jill Davis
SECRETARY, Heather Collins
WEBSITE, www.ophc.org
by Tim Snapp
The Ohio Paint Horse Amateur Club had their show in Springfield, Ohio, September 6-7. The OPHC officers and directors met following the show on Saturday. It was nice to meet in person! There was a lot of fun and prizes too!
Look on the OPHC website and Facebook for year end point standings.
The last OPHC Trail Ride for the season was held October 3-5 at Van Buren State Park. Riders enjoyed a beautiful weekend on the trails and lots of fellowship. We are looking forward to the General Membership meeting Sunday, November 9 at Scioto
Time for Turkey and our GM Meeting
Township Hall, 3737 Ostrander Road, Ostrander, Ohio. The agenda is as follows: 10 a.m.
General Membership meeting and election of directors and officers.
OPHC scholarships available!
(See our Facebook page for links and details.) The Ohio Paint Horse Club offers three $500 college scholarships each year! Applications are due by December 31, 2025.
Submit online at https://www. cognitoforms.com/
To qualify for scholoraship:
1. Be 23 years of age or younger.
2. Be a high school junior or senior or an active college undergraduate student enrolled in a two- or four-year college or a trade school as a full-time student.
3. Be a current member of the Ohio Paint Horse Club
Established in 1988, the Equicizer offers a unique, fun and effective alternative to standard exercise equipment.
From beginners to professionals, the Equicizer is being used in all riding disciplines and is a training tool used by instructors.
The Equicizer also serves as a great addition to many therapy programs, centers, and private homes offering a safe and effective core exercise for everyone!
4. Have participated in at least one Ohio Paint Horse Club activity in the current calendar year (January 1 through December 31).
*Past recipients can apply as well, if you meet the requirements above.
See the ophc.org website or Facebook to stay up to date and for more information!
Pep Talk and Kisses
Jordyn Jones giving a pep talk and kisses to her horse Twisted Whiskers (aka Mags) before going up on the course at Creek Side Mountain Trail.
Equicizer Creator Frank Lovato Jr.
Hand-crafted
The Cowboy Perseverance Ranch
A Gentle Answer
by Rob and Tanya Corzatt
Afamily had purchased a 13-year-old horse, Velvet, from a rescue. They were told she had only been a pasture pet and had minimal groundwork done at the rescue. The family contacted me about lessons for their daughter and training for their new horse. Before committing to training a new horse, I do an assessment to determine if it is worth the time and money for the owner. When they brought her here for me to evaluate, I did a variety of groundwork exercises to see her reactions and how quickly she would catch on. For being in a new place, she started off a little nervous but quickly became calm, attentive, and picked up on the groundwork quickly. I liked her disposition and felt confident that I could work with her.
Velvet came a couple months later to begin what Rob and I call ‘Horsie Boot Camp’. When beginning training with a horse
that is green, I do a minimum of one month of groundwork to establish a good foundation. Part of the training program is to build their confidence with cues during groundwork for walk, trot and canter. I have experienced with most horses that when given a kiss cue to begin the canter it is a much higher level of energy and they sometimes have big reactions. Years ago, I made the mistake of not preparing a horse well enough from the ground with a kiss cue for the canter, and it was caught off guard and took off in a very excited manner when I was on her back. When I started the canter cue from the ground with Velvet her reaction was surprisingly different from most of the horses I’ve worked with.
During the foundational work, Velvet’s disposition had been pretty calm with a few minor indications of being a bit frustrated. When we worked up to the kiss cue to transition from the trot into the canter she displayed some strong emotions. She
immediately stopped, reared up and when she came down she did a one step lunge forward towards me as if to threaten me. I quickly asked for her to begin lunging around me again and once I kissed and asked for the canter she responded in the same threatening manner. I became bigger and added using my stick and string. It served two purposes. It was an extension of my arm to get her in the direction I needed her to go. It also was needed to protect myself from her if she charged me. As her emotions escalated, so did mine and it had adverse effects. I became frustrated and I know she was frustrated. Things were not going well and I realized I needed to do something else.
Tanya and Rob Corzatt
her think. We did this a couple more times then stopped for the day. Within a couple of days her attitude with me had improved greatly. It wasn’t perfect but was so much better.
You always want to find a good place to stop when working with a horse. In this situation that didn’t happen. She and I were both at a point where we were sweating and exhausted. I needed to mentally regroup and knew I needed to help her in a different manner. No one was around for me to consult but that turned out to not be what I needed. I stopped, closed my eyes and prayed. I asked God to give me discernment and wisdom and show me what I needed to do. Immediately what came to my mind was Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” After that God also made me remember a podcast by Stacy Westfall I had listened to a while back. Both of these reflections inspired me to handle things differently. So, we started again.
To change it up a little I decided to have Velvet liberty lunge. She did pretty well with it. We quit on a good note for that day. The next day I did more liberty lunging before putting her on the lead line again. When she didn’t want to go the direction I was sending her I used the stick and string and just cast the string towards her left shoulder to ask her to lunge to the left. I then cued for the canter. She went to rear but it wasn’t as animated as before. I also used a little pressure with the lead line to bump on her nose when she reared. I continued to do this in an annoying but consistent manner instead of making myself bigger and bigger. When she gave me my desired response going to the left, and started nicely in the canter, I stopped her when she completed one circle and let
Velvet and I continued in this manner not only with the groundwork but also while riding her. She definitely isn’t afraid to tell me when she isn’t happy with something. But I also understand that her emotions are due to her frustration with not understanding. There are people who may have a tendency to react in a defensive manner when something is confusing and not understood. I loved the explanation of Proverbs 15:1 in my Life Application Bible. It says “Have you ever tried to argue in a whisper? It is equally hard to argue with someone who insists on answering gently. On the other hand, a rising voice and harsh words almost always trigger an angry response.”
There are times in horse training that you need to make yourself big with the horse and correct them. However, you don’t want to linger on it and do it out of anger. Just like horses, not everyone is the same and reactions may vary. If you are in a situation with someone that may begin escalating, try the gentle answer approach and see if you may be able to achieve better results.
As always my friends, may you be blessed on your ride!
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.
Western Dressage
Mastering Ring Geometry for Perfect Serpentines in Western Dressage
by Kelley Bitter
As the summer show season winds down, it’s a great time to reflect on our rides and identify areas for improvement. This year, I noticed a consistent challenge for many riders in the western dressage court: the serpentine. While it may look like a simple series of loops, a well-executed serpentine is a true test of a horse and rider’s partnership, precision, and control. Too often, I saw loops that were uneven, turns that were abrupt, and riders who seemed to lose their way, resulting in lost points and a disrupted flow.
One common reason for these problems is riders underestimating how much planning and attention to detail serpentines require. Instead of riding symmetrical, round loops, many drift off center, make one loop larger than another, or lose track of their intended line completely. I frequently see horses stumbling into corners or riders looking down at their horse’s neck rather than ahead, which often leads to inconsistent shapes.
The most common mistakes often stem from a single root cause: a misunderstanding of the arena’s geometry. Riders would cut corners, drift off the centerline, or make their loops egg-shaped instead of perfectly round half-circles. These issues show a need for better planning and use of the entire space. Mastering the serpentine isn’t just about bending your horse; it’s about navigating the court like a strategist, using every letter and line to your advantage.
Why Ring Geometry is Your Secret Weapon
Think of the dressage court as your canvas and the letters as your
guideposts. A standard small court (20m x 40m) or large court (20m x 60m) is designed with mathematical precision. The distance between letters is consistent, and the centerline is your anchor. When you use these markers, you stop guessing and start riding with intention.
For example, in a small (20m x 40m) court, the distance between long-side letters (e.g., A to K, K to E) is 6 meters. Knowing the exact locations of these letters and the precise width of the ring helps you plan each loop and crossing with confidence. Practicing at home by walking the court and placing cones at key points can give you a better sense of these measurements.
For a serpentine, this means knowing exactly where each loop should cross the centerline and how deep each loop should be. Precision demonstrates your ability to control your horse’s shoulders and hips, maintain a steady rhythm, and prepare for each change of bend. In western dressage, where harmony and partnership are key, a precise serpentine shows a horse that is responsive, balanced, and willingly guided.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Better Serpentine
Let’s break down how to practice and perfect this movement. We’ll start with a simple three-loop serpentine in a small (20m x 40m) court, a common pattern in introductory and basic level tests.
The Goal: A three-loop serpentine starting at A will cross the centerline twice—at X and at the G-D line—and finish at C. Each loop should be a uniform, symmetrical half-circle, not oval or lopsided.
Step 1: Plan Your Path. Before you even ask your horse to move, visualize the pattern in your mind.
• First loop: Start at A, angle toward the long side, and touch the rail at its deepest point halfway between the corner and E (or B). Mark this spot with a cone if you need extra guidance.
• First crossing: Arrive at X on the centerline. Be sure you are riding straight for at least one stride as you pass X; this helps set up your horse for the change of bend that is coming.
• Second loop: Mirror the path of your first loop, heading toward the opposite rail and touching it halfway between the corner and B (or E).
• Second crossing: Cross the centerline again, this time on the line between G and D.
• Final loop: Guide your horse back toward C, again touching the rail at the halfway point before entering or exiting the corner.
Extra Tip: Riders often find it helpful to trace the intended path on a diagram or in the actual arena using cones or poles. Walking the pattern on foot can also build spatial awareness.
Step 2: Master the Half-Circle. The serpentine is a string of perfect, connected half-circles. To master these, focus on riding beautifully shaped circles first.
• Circle clarity drill: Set up a 20-meter circle at E or B, using cones at the quarter points. Practice riding the circle in both directions until you can maintain an even bend, steady rhythm, and precise path each time.
• Aids breakdown:
—Use your inside leg at the girth to ask for bend and suppleness.
—Maintain a gentle but present outside rein to keep the circle from drifting.
—Use your outside leg slightly behind the girth to encourage the haunches to follow the shoulder and maintain the arc.
• Focus points: Keep your head up and look ahead to where you’re going next; your horse follows your line of sight and body position.
• Ride from point to point: Use arena letters and a mental map (or physical cones) to hit the same spots on your circle every time. If your circle stays the same shape and size, your loops will be more consistent.
Western Dressage
Extra Drill: Have a friend video your ride or set up a phone to record. Watch afterwards and make notes: are your loops the same size? Do you start turning too early or late? Are you drifting?
Step 3: Connect the Loops. Now, build your serpentines from a series of controlled half-circles with confident transitions between them.
• Practice with cones: Set up cones or pylons not just at X and the G-D line, but also at the peaks of your loops along the arena walls. These serve as visual anchors, helping you ride truly round arcs.
• Smooth change of bend: Before your horse crosses the centerline, prepare by sitting tall and momentarily straightening your horse for one stride, then softly switching your bend aids as you start the second loop. Avoid collapsing your shoulders or looking down; your straightness and gentle cue for the new bend sets the quality of the transition.
• Gait consistency: The horse’s tempo (the 1-2, 1-2 of the jog, or the three-beat lope) should never change—even as you bend, straighten, and bend again. If your horse rushes through the changes, go back to walking the pattern until they stay calm and balanced.
Additional Exercise: Serpentine at the walk: If your horse or you are struggling, ride the whole serpentine at a walk. Focus on maintaining the shape and the smoothness of your transitions. The slower pace takes the pressure off and helps you refine your cues.
Tips for Different Skill Levels
For the Developing Rider:
• Two-loop exercise: Start with a two-loop serpentine from one short side to the other. This is less complex and allows you to focus just on smooth changes of bend.
• Shallow loops: Practice with shallow serpentines along one long side, coming just off the track and back. This builds your confidence in steering without a drastic change in direction.
• Frequent breaks: If you or your horse become frustrated, take breaks. Praise small improvements and use repetition to build muscle memory.
For the Intermediate Rider:
• 10-meter half-circle drill: Ride a 10-meter half-circle from the centerline to the rail, straighten for a few strides, then return with another 10-meter half-circle. This isolates and perfects your ability to ride exact arcs, which makes your loops cleaner.
• Focused transitions: Add walk transitions as you cross the centerline—maintain impulsion through the transition, then pick up jog just as smoothly. Gradually increase the number of serpentines without a break.
• Track corrections: If your loops start or finish off the expected line, pause and realign. Practicing with mirrors, videos, or even asking a friend to call out letters as you ride can greatly improve spatial accuracy.
• Pattern mix-up: Try riding serpentines in both directions, or varying the number of loops to keep both you and your horse thinking and engaged.
For the Advanced Rider:
• Lope serpentine and flying changes: The hallmark of advanced serpentines is the perfectly timed lead change at each centerline crossing. Practice straight lines and lead changes on the diagonal before putting them together in a serpentine.
• Increase challenge: In a large (20m x 60m) court, attempt four- or five-loop serpentines, or add ground poles to mark the centerline and loop peaks. The more guidance you have at first, the smoother your practice sessions will be.
• Adjustable stride: Work on collecting and lengthening the stride between loops, always returning to the correct rhythm and frame.
This develops your horse’s adjustability and balance—a huge asset for upper-level competition.
• Visualize the test: Many advanced riders benefit from riding the actual western dressage test patterns regularly. Ride with the precision required in the show ring every time you practice so nerves don’t upend your accuracy during competition.
The Impact of Geometry on Competition Performance
Understanding the arena’s layout is your advantage in any pattern, but it’s essential for serpentines. When it comes to western dressage competition, judges evaluate serpentines with a specific set of criteria in mind, and scores reflect how well horse and rider demonstrate mastery over these fundamentals.
What Judges Look For:
• Symmetry and Accuracy: Judges want to see serpentines with even, symmetrical loops that are mirror images of each other. Each loop should reach an identical depth on the long side, and the points where the horse crosses the centerline must be correctly placed, often at specified arena markers.
• Balance and Bend: The horse’s frame should remain balanced throughout, with correct flexion and bend appropriate to each loop. There should be a visible, smooth change of bend as the horse crosses the centerline—never abrupt, never forced.
• Rhythm and Tempo: The horse’s gait should remain consistent and regular, showing clear, steady rhythm whether you’re riding at the walk, jog, or lope. Loss of tempo, quickening around turns, or breaking gait can incur marks down.
• Straightness and Fluidity: As you briefly straighten over the centerline after each loop, the horse should move straight, with the rider’s aids nearly invisible. Transitions between loops should be seamless, without hesitation or tension.
• Rider’s Use of Aids and Positioning: Judges reward riders who demonstrate deliberate use of arena geometry—reaching loop peaks at the correct locations and using markers to guide accuracy. Clear, effective aids with minimal visible correction show mastery and partnership.
How It’s Scored:
Serpentines are typically marked on a scale from 0 to 10, with scores awarded based on precision, accuracy, harmony, and overall execution of the pattern. A score of 10 signifies an exemplary performance: perfect geometry, impeccable rhythm, accurate changes of bend, and visible partnership. A lower score reflects minor errors such as loops varying in size, unbalanced changes of bend, or loss of rhythm. Significant mistakes, such as missed markers, breaking gait, or poorly shaped turns, will be marked down accordingly and may receive comments from the judge to guide your improvement.
Breakdown practice sessions by focusing on one key goal at a time. First, ride smooth, even loops. Next, work on straight, balanced changes of bend at the centerline. Finally, combine both aspects with a consistent rhythm and confident use of the whole arena.
By shifting your focus to the geometry of the ring, you transform the serpentine from a challenge into an opportunity. It becomes a chance to show off your horse’s suppleness, your precise control, and the strong partnership you’ve built. Start thinking about your arena as a map, and you’ll find the path to a perfect serpentine is clearer than ever. With regular, mindful practice and careful attention to detail, you will see smoother, rounder, and more polished serpentines in both your daily rides and your next competition. Happy riding!
Located in Ravenna, Ohio, Eagles Nest Equestrian Center is committed to helping riders of all levels achieve their horsemanship goals. We offer comprehensive lessons tailored to individual needs, and we are excited to announce the formation of our new show team. This dedicated team provides a supportive and goal-oriented environment for competitors looking to advance their skills and succeed in the show ring. Whether you are just starting or are ready to compete, we have a program for you. Contact us today for more information and to join our community. www.Eaglesnestequestrian.com or https://www. facebook.com/EaglesNestEquestrianPerformance/
Tri-County Trail Association
PRESIDENT, Jim Mike
VICE
PRESIDENT, Cindy Krumm
SECRETARY,
Bev Mills
TREASURER,
Lydia Fox
WEBSITE, www.tri-cotrails.com
by Kelly Jo Heffner
It’s been another great season at Tri-County Trail Association that
Give Thanks
had a lot of good times and great events. It’s the time of the year when the campground closes for the winter and we prepare for the holidays, as they are approaching fast.
November is the time when friends and family gather and celebrate Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect time of year to say what we are thankful for. We wish to say thank you to each and every one of our members and visitors, as you all are the reasons that this
Buckeye Equestrian Association
PRESIDENT, Patricia Andio
VICE PRESIDENT, Susan Smith-Gordan
SECRETARY, Jennifer Milliner
TREASURER, William Milliner
FACEBOOK, Buckeye Equestrian Association
by Jane Malmsberry
It’s October in Ohio! That means two things: 1. Best time of
club of horsemen exists. It’s been a great season at TriCo with many people coming and enjoying the annual events. The trails looked great all year (when it stopped raining), and the events had some spectacular event planners and great people attending. The campgrounds always looked its best with everything being cleaned, mowed, and in tip-top shape!
The Halloween Event was a fun time with so many costumes and
Looking for Organizations to Sponsor
the year to hit the trails! And this year has been exceptionally nice! Wonder how the fall colors are going to be, though. 2. And of course, Quarter Horse Congress! What an opportunity! Ohio is lucky to have the location of this huge event. Let’s support it to be sure to keep it here.
Also this time of year, Buckeye Equestrian Association starts thinking of worthy candidates to sponsor. If you aren’t aware, each year we pick several organizations to receive a generous contribution. We try to stay pretty much in the
We have come to the end of another shooting season. I hope everyone had a good time. The last shoot ‘Outlaws Reckoning’ started with flags being presented on Saturday by Cole Caster, Deb Harris, Devon Copper, and Georgia Treas. After the last shot we went to the dining hall for awards.
Overall mens and overall overall was Sylvio Pellegrino, reserve mens Jordan Tschiegg, cowgirl overall Emily Carroll, reserve cowgirl Tammy Angeletti, shotgun ladies limited Brooke
so much fun! The kids enjoyed painting pumpkins, and games while the adults enjoyed watching the kids have a great time. After the kids fun was finished, the adults had a little fun of their own with costume contests and the DJ to finish off the evening. It was a fabulous time for everyone who was able to attend!
Tri-County Trail Association wish a happy Thanksgiving to all. Look for our newest schedule of events to come out soon!
NE Ohio area but could consider crossing the state line into NW Pennsylvania. Is there one that enters your mind?
Another thing Buckeye Equestrian Association does is host clinics. In keeping with our mission to educate horsemen, we try to put on a couple clinics each year. Is there a topic you would like to see covered? Let us know! Message us on Facebook or email me and I will be happy to bring it up at our meetings.
Janemalmsberry@aol.com Ride on!
A Birthday Surprise for a Special Man
Carpico, open Tammy Angeletti, mens limited Cale Staver, mens open Ronald Kiko. This win for Brooke makes her Shotgun Queen. Wranglers limited Arden Sloan, wranglers limited Lily Treas. Move-ups: Deb Harris L2-L3, Kierstin Fritsch L4-L5. After the awards we had a wonderful celebration for Jimmy Bussell’s 80th birthday. Lots of memories were shared. Friends and family came from far and near to surprise and help Jimmy show how loved he is. Dog races and games followed. Sunday flags were carried by
Amanda Katz, Georgia Treas, and Kamille Huff.
Winners on Sunday were mens overall and over overall Paul Treas, reserve mens David Vrh, overall cowgirl Janessa Hill, reserve cowgirl Emily Carroll. Wrangler open Lily Treas, wrangler limited Arden Sloan. Move-ups: Amanda Katz L2L3, Dora Psiakis L4-L5, Scott Gobley M1-M2.
We would like to thank Custom Concho and Tack for their sponsorship of this shoot. We have added one more sponsor to our list, Lanes Liniment. Next up we will be electing our new board members.
TREASURER Margaret Hite 740/407-6986 treasurer@ohconline.com
Greetings From Your President
If you’re not a member of the Ohio Horseman’s Council, please consider joining. Your membership fee remains with the Horseman’s Council and its county chapters to support equine-related activities and trail maintenance that would not occur without the hundreds of volunteers in the Ohio Horseman’s Council. Join or renew today at ohconline.com and be ready for 2026. You won’t regret the minimal investment
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ASHTABULA
Our club’s recent Fall Dice Ride was a huge success! It was all thanks to the huge amount of hard work and effort put in by a few specific club members that this ride was able to happen. Hopefully this will be only the first of many events hosted at Buccaneer Campgrounds. Riders and horses alike enjoyed a fantastic turnout and autumn day on the trails. With warm sunshine, golden leaves, and plenty of laughter, it was everything we love about the fall riding season. Participants gathered in high spirits, rolling dice at each checkpoint to test their luck and compete for generous cash prizes. Whether you rode for the thrill of the game or just to enjoy the scenery, everyone came back with big smiles and great stories. We all then enjoyed yummy food and had a chance to win some very nice auction items. The camaraderie was as bright as the fall foliage, and it was wonderful to see both familiar faces and a few new ones joining in the fun. As we wrap up another great club event, excitement is already building for the upcoming trail ride season. Cooler temperatures and colorful views make autumn one of the best times to get out and explore new paths with our equine partners. Keep an eye on
you’re making in Ohio’s bridle trails and equine industry.
Current members say they joined because they wanted to:
1) Support Ohio’s bridle trails and the volunteers who maintain the trails.
2) Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
3) Find others with similar interests.
4) Make a difference through volunteer contributions.
5) Share and enjoy the equine experience.
the calendar. We hope to have several more trail rides planned in the coming weeks, and we can’t wait to ride together again! If you ever want to learn more about who we are and what we
PRESIDENT Mary Alice Kuhn 330/413-6589 president@ohconline.com
6) Attend events for all ages of riders, disciplines of riding, and breeds of equine.
If you’re already a member, I’m sure you know someone who could benefit from membership. Invite them to an event. Let’s share the reasons we belong to Ohio’s largest all-volunteer nonprofit organization.
Our next state membership meeting is scheduled for November 8 at the Elks in Newark. All are invited.
VICE PRESIDENT Nancy Strayer 740/694-1007 vicepresident@ohconline.com
OHC COUNTY LINES EDITOR Kirstie Seeger 937/974-3345 countylineeditor@ohconline.com
This same time period marks the state OHC and county chapters’ election of officers and subsequent meetings to plan for 2026 events. The regional meetings in February are where we all come together and finalize our goals for the upcoming year. It’s going to be a busy year, so don’t be left out. Make a difference and be a part of the Ohio Horseman’s Council.
~Mary Alice Kuhn
do, please reach out to us. Our 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! Here’s to more miles, more memories, and more saddle time this fall.
~Kat Ring
AUGLAIZE
Hi everyone, hopefully your fall season was fun and exciting! I’m sorry that the year is coming to an end soon, but I’m reminded about how much fun we had this year and the memories we’ve made. I know Auglaize County for one had its ups and downs with our fair for our equines being rained out, but the memories we made playing in the mud and taking advantage of what we had been given was amazing. The Denim and T show went off without a hitch. We were able to provide an opportunity for the kids to ride and compete with their horses. Everyone enjoyed themselves and it went well. Furthermore, we also were able to do our fan favorite musical freestyle. This is an event that I especially enjoy. Both kids and adults alike pick a favorite song and perform a series of patterns. This includes side
stepping, barrel patterns, poles, galloping, trotting, and so much more. Our two-time reigning champion and coincidentally, our queen Harley Mertz won in the senior group along with Cece Nagel in the junior age group and Shelby Crider in the open group. All participants did an excellent job and were really creative. This event was a little late this year as we normally conduct it the same week as the fair, but due to the rain we received, it had to be pushed back. In addition, Auglaize County has been so fortunate to meet
Ashtabula County OHC
Harley Mertz, Musical Freestyle.
Cece Nagel, Musical Freestyle.
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Eden, an exchange student from France. Her riding discipline is dressage and hunter jumping, yet for her first horse show in the United States, she did her first ever speed show! She received a warm welcome as she entered the arena for the pole exhibition. She won a blue ribbon and an Ohio State bag as a prize. Our junior ambassadors, Olivia Herron and Gunnar Smith along with both junior ambassador and equine queen, Harley Mertz, were also presented with the amazing opportunity to meet her. They along with Mercer County Special Olympic helpers presented Eden with horse bag treats. They were thrilled to meet and talk with her. We wish you the best of luck with the rest of your stay in the United States, Eden!
Finally, we will be participating in the Oktoberfest parade. It’s a great event to be a part of, and the kids always have so much fun. With this I would like to point out some events happening within our month of November and the following months so that hopefully you can join us! Unfortunately, with wrapping our year up to a close we don’t have much left to offer with the days getting colder, but we have our bi-yearly meeting for the Ohio Horseman’s Council on November 8, and the Mayberry Market is November 7 and 8. Along with that, the hometown holiday parade on December 6. More information can be found on our Facebook page, Auglaize County Ohio Horseman’s Council Inc. Thank you for all your support this year, and Happy Thanksgiving!
~Veronica Mertz
CLARK
Fall weather this year has been fantastic for riding. It finally cooled off in September and left us with beautiful blue skies and white puffy clouds. Before it cooled off Anne Demmy, Polly Agle, Kailene Wells, and myself from Clark County and Anne Hunter from At Large spent a steamy day at The Little Brown Jug. We spent the day eating
fair food and using our equine expertise to pick horses based on names and favorite colors. The grey horses were always picked but never won. Anne Hunter was the big winner walking away with $90 and I myself won 60 cents. The big wins were not in dollars but fun and camaraderie.
On another adventure we camped at East Fork State Park. The weather report was not encouraging but we decided to risk it anyway. Our first couple of rides we managed to plan around the rain but, the third day we pushed our luck. We met a couple of riders that told us a storm was about 30 minutes away. We did try to get back to camp but were a little too far out. The sky got dark, and the wind picked up like crazy. It was a beautiful storm of leaves blowing and swirling around until the skies opened up. We slowly moved back towards camp and were quickly soaked through. All at once all four horses stopped and turned their butts to the storm. I have never experienced that on a horse on a trail. They were definitely communicating that we needed to wait out the worst part which we did and then made it safely back to camp.
Clark County’s next adventure is our fall campout where we have lots of fun activities planned. The next meeting is scheduled for November 12 at 6:30 p.m. location to be determined. Come ride with Clark County!
~Jonna Ledyard
CLERMONT
We hope everyone has been enjoying this beautiful riding
weather through September and October. September 18-21 we were able to enjoy a beautiful weekend with Fairfield County, at the Tim Applegate Horseman’s Area East Fork State Park. I think we had about eight or 10 trailers from Fairfield and five to six from Clermont. A community meal was enjoyed by all with Fairfield City providing chicken for our evening meal on Saturday.
The reviews on the Blue Trail are nothing but outstanding! The Blue Trail is now seeing a lot of traffic due to the improvements. Thank you to all those who worked on the Blue Trail, and Ohio State Parks for channeling the money to East Fork State Park for OHC Clermont County and volunteers to complete the work needed to repair this trail. The three big factors here would be Clermont city volunteers, Ohio State Parks and East Fork State Park.
I got to spend a week at Elkins Creek Horsecamp, riding 76 miles on the Sheltowee Trail Ride in Wayne National Forest, with 100 other horse enthusiasts. People from all over the United States, Texas, Louisiana Missouri, Florida, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and even New York.
With the crisp fall air setting in and winter just around the corner, stay safe as you enjoy the beautiful trails of Ohio, or wherever your adventures may lead you!
~LaWana Bogard
CLINTON
Hello fellow horseman and woman. I hope you have been taking advantage of the beautiful weather! It has been a dry summer, not good for the hay but awesome for the trails here in Ohio.
We arranged a ride with Vicki Bornhorst who lives over by the Sugar Creek State Park, for a guided trail ride. The trails are amazing there, well kept, easy to follow, you do have to watch for hikers even though it states at trail heads no hiking.
We took some photos at the creek crossing; one photo is Hopper and Neo getting a drink, it is a beautiful area photo. Another is Vicki Bornhorst at the creek crossing and the last photo is Amanda Snell on Jax. We had an amazing ride.
Some of us are going to Tennessee at the end of October to the Big South Fork, one of my most favorite places to ride! I have never had a boring ride there—beautiful overlooks, and
the trails are amazing. If you have never been, you need to plan a trip!
Fall is upon us, we’re getting ready for lots of riding, There maybe a campout or two left in me! Watch our Facebook page for upcoming rides, and meetings. Take a kid riding and see the future, meaningful way to pass on the joy and responsibility of horsemanship.
~Sue Lamb
COLUMBIANA
Hello everyone, what a beautiful summer in northeast Ohio. We couldn’t have asked for a better summer except for a little more rain. Not much to report from Columbiana just a couple club rides which everyone who went had a great time as reported. Also, by the time everyone reads this article we will have had our well-known Halloween ride at Beaver Creek. The last I checked almost all the spots have been reserved. In my next article I will report of the events and success of this ride.
I am happy to announce we have gained in membership, and we are currently at 78 members here at Columbiana OHC. I credit our increase of membership to the humble courteous and grateful members of the Columbiana OHC. In our membership no one is left out, and everyone is welcomed to attend and participate in any
Eden, foreign exchange student.
Clark County OHC
Clinton County OHC
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event which is going on without criticism. If asked most members will tell you how welcomed, they feel in our chapter. Finally, I would like to highlight one of our exemplary members. He is our present vice president and the head of trail maintenance. Our member Rick Haldiman for the last five years has overwhelmingly spearheaded the upkeep maintenance and reconstruction of the trails at Beaver Creek. His understanding and experience in construction has made him a valuable asset to our trails and to our chapter. Please don’t get me wrong there are many people in our chapter who participate in trail maintenance including Ricks wife Alice. But it is Rick Haldiman who takes the reins and leads the cavalry into the maintenance of our trail system. Thank you Rick Haldiman for all you’ve done! Speaking of maintenance, better drainage has been put in at the horse wash bay. We were getting a lot of mud at the bay and had to make some improvements. Plus, the handicap ramp has been painted and the flower beds at the pavilion have been reconstructed and improved. Thanks everyone for all the hard work. Until next time be safe.
~Doug Johnson
CUYAHOGA
Our three-day State Ride in September, held jointly with Cuyahoga, Medina and Summit Counties saw a beautiful sun filled weekend of riding. Trails were dry and enjoyed by all those attending. The camping area had potable water, electric hookups, a large pavilion and great fun activities. The Friday evening program was a presentation by Centera Feed and those attending raved about what they learned. On Saturday, Cleveland Metroparks Mounted Police presented a creative obstacle course with a challenge run at the end. There was a delicious beef dinner with all the fixings on Saturday night along with drawings and an auction of really nice items. We thank everyone who attended and bid as well as visiting our bargain tables of goods. All in all, it was a fine weekend of activities with wonderful members and guests participating. It was good to get to know our visitors from other counties. Saturday evening drew to a close with many participating in line dancing where even the beginners could follow
after wonderful instructions by our dancing leader. This was followed by a campfire and enthusiastic chatter from those sitting around it. Sunday campers left the grounds spotless as they headed for home with hopefully memories of a good time. Special thanks go to the members of the three chapters who stepped up and saw that everyone had a great time. You are special people, and you pulled it off beautifully.
Many chapters have lost members through death, illness or the passing of horses. We are so lucky to have lived a time with such wonderful friends and animals. We share this passion for horses and this binds us together. As the riding season starts to wind down make every ride your most memorable. And cherish your friends.
~Penny
DELAWARE
Happy November from your friends in Delaware Chapter! As Thanksgiving approaches, it is fitting that we take a moment to reflect and say thank you to all those individuals in our life be they family, friends, colleagues, etc, that have helped make our own lives better and brighter. Focusing on our OHC ‘family’ for the moment, I want to personally thank my fellow officers: secretary Bobbi Arters, vice-president Kim Vorbau, and treasurer Jim Vorbau, for their support, understanding and patience as they took on more responsibilities with our chapter when my role as caregiver prevented my full participation. In addition, I want to publicly thank all our members, chapter friends, guests, and our awesome lineup of guest speakers for their contributions to a very successful 2025 year for our chapter!
Thank you to our October guest speakers from the Columbus Police Horse Unit, Ms. Sandy Silva and member, Deann Trionfante. What an informative and interesting presentation to learn about our own Columbus equine law enforcement division!
We look forward to welcoming member, Dan Chambers, as our guest speaker for our Friday November 7 chapter meeting, when he will share his experience and insights learned during his recently completed Ken McNabe certification program. Come join us beginning at 7 p.m. at the Kilbourne United Methodist Church on SR 521. Light
refreshments and our business meeting will follow Dan’s presentation.
Our meeting agenda focus will be 2026 officer nominations and election. If you are considering running for an office, please do not hesitate to reach out to the current officer with any questions you may have about the role. For Delaware Chapter to remain vibrant, motivated, and relevant for our members, we welcome all member input and encourage new members to step into leadership roles be it as an officer or committee leader. Speaking of committees, a huge thank you is extended to all of our members who volunteer on a weekly basis maintaining our bridle trails at Alum Creek State Park. These awesome volunteers, with Bobbi Arters as crew leader, have done an outstanding job again this year. The trails have been in superb condition for our peak fall riding season.
With the year nearing its end, we are still working to carry out our community service project of litter collection along our one mile stretch of SR 36/37 near the Delaware Humane Society. This ‘Adopt-A-Highway’ service project is spearheaded by member Gelene Heinlen. A minimum of six volunteers is needed for each of three collection events. The work takes approximately one to one-and-a-half hours to complete. Your participation is greatly appreciated. We encourage you to reach out to Gelene for more information. Thank you, Gelene! Please mark your calendars to attend our chapter Christmas party, scheduled for Friday, December 5. Come wearing your best ‘ugliest Christmas sweater’ for a chance to win a prize! Enjoy delicious potluck and an evening full of fun and camaraderie. A
secret Santa gift exchange will be featured again this year!
Wishing everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
~Theresa Burke
ERIE
Greetings from Erie County! It has been a great year of riding and camping. I think the best is in the fall. Colorful views, campfires, horses and good friends. Life is good.
Awesome weather greeted our riders for our annual poker ride! Lots of raffles, door prizes, music and a delicious luncheon entertained guests until the final hands were drawn. This year Fred Myerholtz, ECOHC member, drew the lucky hand and won the men’s division. Lisa F. won the ladies division and Baylor won the youth division. Congratulations to all! Excitement was in the air as ticket numbers were called. Our 50/50 winner was totally surprised and then graciously returned his winnings to the club. Thank you, Jack! (Fulton County)
Thank you to Cheryl Everman and ECOHC members for organizing and creating such a fun day for fellow horse lovers. The funds we raise and the work we do help keep our parks and horse trails open for us and future generations.
Erie Metro Parks Fall Fest, held at Osbourne Park was next on the agenda. Our club sets up a petting zoo and adds a Paint the Pony event. The ‘Paint the Pony’ event is a sensory experience for children and adults alike. Participants are allowed to put their hands in their favorite color and touch a horse. Leaving their presence visually behind. Even Mark, Erie Metro Parks ranger got in on the fun. Thanks goes out to Kim McCurdy, chairperson and her committee: Dan, Dian, Colleen, Fred, Sherri, Gary, Marcia, Cynthia, Donna, and Rebecca with her paint horse, Echo. Cynthia Malcolm picked up the petting zoo animals from ‘The Wild Hooves Farm’. Thank you, Betsy Thayer, for letting us share the love of your animals. We sure were busy in September as we attended the NW regional ride at Van Buren State Park. We couldn’t have asked for better weather or riding. It was great seeing old and new friends as we helped with the dinner Saturday night. Horse people know how to have fun. Our monthly campout at Smokey Road the end of the
CPD Horse Unit Sandy Silva and Deann Trionfante.
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month turned out a new overnight experience for Lynn Sparks’ 3-year-old, Moxy. She did great hanging out next to her mentor, Farley under the stars. Looks like camping and trail riding is in her future!
November 13 is the date for our monthly meeting and 2026 calendar planning. The location is to be determined. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Life is better on the trail!
~Shelley Hayes
FAIRFIELD
I am sitting here starting to write my newsletter wondering where the year has gone. This month and the next brings the end to 2025. I seemed to have had little contact with a lot of our members, mostly because of the weather, a small health issue and other members dealing with health and horse problems too. I know a lot of members keep busy with family which is very important and doesn’t always involve horses. I think I pretty much covered our state ride in September that was a big success. I found out at our September meeting more folks showed up than I reported. Just a reminder, we had decided to make our state ride a fundraiser, to go to an organization called Stockhands Horses for Healing—it was a success. I am enclosing a picture of our Vice President Bryan Black and his wife Mischelle presenting a check to founders Mr. Tim Funk, wife Lisa and Stacia Naquin of 10TV a board member. The picture also shows our chapter banner hanging in their barn acknowledging our contribution to their cause.
Our September meeting involved a lot of discussion on next year’s state ride, we need more input from our members. I didn’t attend the ride at East Fork, so I have no news to report about it. Except some of our riders came across a big black snake laying across the trail sunning its self. It didn’t mind the horses, just kept doing its thing. Mother Nature could not have given us better weather for our Halloween ride. Sunny days, cool nights, hardly any flies, what more could you want? I have to report on a few things that happened. We heard that Jamie McGuire and Pam got married, congratulations to them. There was a rumor passed on to me that Barb Berry was given recognition at the Lancaster Fair for her partition years ago leading the fair with the flag. Now for a little fun stuff that happened. Keith and Donna were riding down the trail and through the bushes comes a baby kitten probably around three weeks
old. Being the kind of people they are, the kitten ended back at their camp and became the camp entertainment. I am including a picture of Keith on horseback holding this little hand size baby. Believe it or not a home was found for this little, lucky kitty. As you all know June and Tanna love to paint rocks and put them out on the trail. Guess who found it...me and a prize came with it! Thank you. To finish this up if you lost a pink pig he’s down at the artesian well.
~Anita Hoon
FULTON
As I sit here on an 84-degree day in October, I still can’t wait for fall to start! In spite of the persistent heat, members were busy in September with events including the Edison Woods Poker Run and the state ride at Mohican. Polly represented our chapter at the chili cookoff, and several members were there. Some members camped at Farmlane and rode at Waterloo and others camped at Reed Road and rode at Oak Openings. And, of course, there were day rides at Oak Openings and the Maumee State Forest. A few members camped and rode at the NW state ride at Van Buren September 1921 while other members came for day rides or activities. It was a fantastic weekend weather wise, and there were plenty of activities for the young and not so young. The trails were in great shape and easily accommodated the large number of riders.
Our Oktoberfest camping weekend was October 3-5 at Reed Road Ranglers. Our main meal, dessert auction and chapter meeting were October 4. Our dessert auction, which we have done for several years, generates funds which we donate to area food banks and community groups. Over 70 members, perspective members, and guests enjoyed the boiled dinner organized by Polly and the dessert
auction orchestrated by Dalton, Jerry, Tami, Christine and Jo. At the meeting, 2025 officers were reaffirmed for 2026: President Jack Collins, Vice President Kathy Brown, Secretary Connie Bauer and Treasurer Jo Neeley. Meetings will be moved back indoors in November to The Bunker Bar in Holland. Jack has some exciting ideas for next year and will be organizing a planning committee to handle our schedule.
The Harry Hughes Equestrian Center held their ride-a-thon fundraiser the same weekend as Oktoberfest, on Sunday, and many of our members and guests participated. It is their main fundraiser to support the HHYEC. Lunch was provided and there were raffles and auction items.
After having such a good time riding in the Swanton Corn Festival parade in August and the Delaware All Horse parade in September, some members planned to ride in the Rossford Halloween parade on October 26. They invited anyone interested to join them.
Chapter meetings are usually on the first Tuesday of the month and will be at The Bunker Bar in Holland, November through April. Our website www.fcohc. com, our Facebook group Fulton County OHC and our Facebook page Fulton County Ohio Horseman’s Council can reveal what we’re up to in real time. Be safe and we hope to see you on the trails!
~Kathy Brown
Erie County OHC
Keith with the kitten found on the trail.
Fairfield County OHC
Chili cook off.
Fulton County OHC
Boot branding.
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GALLIA
Hello, I hope everyone is enjoying the cooler weather. In Gallia County our members met up to support a couple benefit rides. September 20 they were able to support the St. Jude trail ride at the Dill Farm in Rutland, Ohio. We had 10 members attend this ride. September 27, we came together for the Shriners Ride at O.O. McIntyre Raccoon Creek Country Park. We had six members attend that ride. At our meeting we discussed our November 1 ride and had a planning session. We also had shirts made for the Gallia County Chapter that was available for purchase. Our chapter ambassadors have been working hard getting things checked off the list.
Our next meeting is November 11 at 6 p.m. at Kali’s Pizza in Rio Grande, Ohio. We hope to see you there.
~Angie Jones
GREENE
It’s already Thanksgiving and hard to believe that the year is almost over. Time with family and friends is special. Take the time to enjoy it and ride with your friends. Time flies when you are busy and doing what we love. Trail riding during the fall has been spectacular, weatherwise. While the drought made the leaves fall from the trees sooner and less colorful in our area, the weather was perfect for riding. Caesar Ford held another pumpkin glow that gives a whole new meaning to glow with pumpkins hand-painted in blacklight-reflective paint. The trails
of Caesar Ford Park were lined with hundreds of hand-painted pumpkins covering everything from cartoons to music to horror shows, animals, and more. Once illuminated with the black light, the pumpkin comes to life! One of our members, Cindra Phillips, painted several pumpkins for the Pumpkin Glow.
Greene County OHC held a Friendsgiving ride at Caesar Ford. Donations of non-perishable food items were gathered and will be given to families in need within our community. Several OHC members from neighboring chapters are involved with the Sugarcreek Collaborative, ensuring that we continue to have equine trails remain at Sugarcreek MetroPark in Bellbrook, Ohio. We have been communicating and working with park officials and other equine enthusiasts regarding this important aspect of all our lives. After our meeting with park officials in late September, the trail map was redrawn and the equestrian loops were put back in, as well as the connector loop. Some of these trails will then be shared use.
A few ladies from GCOHC attended Quarter Horse Congress and had a fabulous time shopping, going to see the shows and admiring all the horses. Good deals and good times were had by all who attended. Thanks to William Schmidt, GCOHC is holding a fundraiser by selling Mike’s Car Wash tickets. To purchase the tickets, please contact Bill for information. 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
The first of the month of September, Darla, Lynn and Bob Werry and I went to Elkins Creek Horse Camp for the annual Cowboys for Christ Fall Gathering. Duane and Rhonda Parcell met us there. Bob and Darla visited around camp while the rest of us rode. We rode a little over 30 miles. It was very dry, we only had pesky horse flies one day, and then only for a short while. I was bringing up the rear on Saturday, when I hollered out to Lynn to hold back and let Duane and Rhonda get ahead of us. The dust was chocking me out and filling my eyes with grit! That slight change made a big difference.
I’m very sad to say, I brought home some very nasty friends who are just now leaving; after three and a half weeks! I counted 65 chigger bites on me the morning after we got back! You don’t know the definition of itch, till you’ve endured chigger bites! Little demons from the pit of Hell, I tell you! Other than that, it was an awesome weekend. Great riding, music, preaching, food and fellowship. It was like an oldfashioned revival camp meeting.
On the home front, the club installed a hitching rail, at the Tucker House on the White Trail – B Loop (just before the 3-mile marker). In the first picture, on the boat, is David Thompson, Maintenance Supervisor of Salt Fork State Park. If you look closely, you can see the hitching
rail strapped down to the boat. Next, Bob Werry is on the post hole digger, while Don McIntyre mans the spud bar! The finished product in the last picture. Thank you to Salt Fork for the use of their boat and for hauling the hitching rail to the picnic spot at the Tucker House. If all goes as planned, Dee Dee and I will be riding and camping with some friends at Hocking Hills in the middle of October. I can’t wait! Hope to see you on the trail soon.
~Lee Randolph
HAMILTON
Hello and welcome to wonderful November, an entire month dedicated to gratitude and giving thanks. We appreciate our wholly volunteer state and county club officers, committee leaders, and club members. Without these fine people, there would be no rides, trail work, engaging activities, youth programs, educational experiences, communications and people to enjoy the fruits of the work. We are thankful for our agricultural and medical professionals and partner organizations who have donated their time, talent and treasures in providing exceptional speakers and materials for our educational programs. You make us all better horse owners. We are grateful to the owners of Horsemen’s Corral magazine and OHC’s editors
Gallia County OHC
A few Friendsgiving riders.
Jellyfish pumpkin glow.
Montgomery and Greene OHC members at Congress.
Guernsey County OHC
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Martie Ackerman and Kirstie Seeger for facilitating our club with the means to have a written, public voice through Horsemen’s Corral’s ‘County Lines’ section. Through your efforts, you connect us all. We are grateful to count four Junior Ambassadors as members of Hamilton County OHC. These four young people are smart, engaged, and eager equestrians. Your commitment to the Junior Ambassador program shines a bright light forward for the equine industry. We are thankful for Great Parks of Hamilton County staff members who are leading and supporting the partnership between Great Parks of Hamilton County and Hamilton County OHC members. These two dynamic groups are responsible for organizing multiple Miami Whitewater Forest horse trail cleanup events and are truly an equestrian’s best friend. We appreciate Hamilton County OHC’s one-man horse trail maintenance crew, whose consistent, day-to-day efforts maintaining Miami Whitewater Forest’s horse trails A, B, and C make riding these trails a pleasure. We are grateful to Great Parks of Hamilton County who, once again, granted our special request for Hamilton County OHC members to hold four moonlight rides on the Miami Whitewater Forest Shaker Trace Trail. Moonlight rides are wonderful. A mind settling, soul
healing, riding experience of watching the sun set over flower filled fields and the moon slowly rise in the night sky.
HC-OHC members are deeply grateful for the beautiful October weather and bone-dry horse trails we experienced during Hamilton County OHC’s very first weekend camping trip to Hocking Hills. We are going back next year.
Lastly, dear reader I appreciate you reading what I have written. If you are a member of OHC, thank you for being a member. If you are not an OHC member, I implore you to join and share yourself. OHC does terrific work for the equine community. To find out more about HC-OHC 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! November is a month to reflect and be thankful for all our many blessings. I am thankful for my friends and family and for living in such a beautiful country where I can enjoy my horses and the great outdoors. I hope the weather allows everyone some end of the season rides. This past weekend was beautiful, and HCOHC member Cindy’s granddaughter Haylee had some gorgeous homecoming pictures taken with her horse. Haylee has been on the back of Cindy’s horses since she was three and I have had the pleasure of watching her grow up with them. She now shows in 4H and has become an excellent rider. All that wouldn’t have happened without her grandmother’s efforts. Nowadays, kids are pulled in so many more directions it is tougher to boast their interest in horses. As adults we must work together to pull our youth out of the cyber world and back into the real world anyway we can. Horses are one sure way of doing that. Learning how to work hard and seeing the rewards for their efforts are lessons all kids need to learn. I applaud Cindy and all the parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles out there who are investing in our youth. Horses helped produce some of the best folks I know. I encourage
you all to put the effort into our youth anyway you can. Kids may not show it now, but they will appreciate it in the future. I know I am more grateful now than ever that I was able to grow up with horses. I wish I had thanked my parents and grandparents for making that happen. Mine are gone now but if you still have yours, Thank them! This is the perfect time of year to do that. May you all have a wonderful and happy Thanksgiving! As always, our club welcomes new members, whether you ride or not, to come out and share your horse stories. Also don’t forget to renew your memberships so you keep getting this awesome magazine!
~Sherrie Hart
HOCKING
Camping season is about finished, but riding, with the correct attire, doesn’t have to end! Just be careful out there with the various hunting seasons. Be sure to know the area where you ride, the season that it is, and the correct clothing for visibility to hunters. Personally, I wouldn’t venture out at all during deer season with firearms. Hunters only have a few weeks to bag that venison. Riders have all year, so I say, let them have the woods for that couple of weeks.
All American Quarter Horse Congress.
Before we get all wrapped up in the upcoming holiday season, it’s important to cherish the memories of fall.
In the beginning of September, a group of our club members took a ride to Ash Cave from Three Reasons Farm. This was the second time the group had done this. It was discussed and agreed that this should be a yearly event. We were pleasantly surprised to see that the section of trail between Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls was clear and mowed. It has always been a tricky trail to navigate due to the neglect of the trail past Old Man’s cave. It was easy to get turned around and hard to find the markers again, if you did. With this most recent trail work, it is darn near impossible to get lost!
Another yearly event is the OHC Regional Ride. This year it was in McConnelsville. We had a few of our members attend, and they had a wonderful time. Chili Cook-off at Mohican is also an event that people mark on their calendar’s way in advance. I don’t know if we had any of our primary members there, but I do know that we had a few
Hamilton County OHC
Haylee, homecoming.
Faye’s niece, Remy.
Ash Cave ride.
Regional ride.
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secondary members attending. This last yearly event has people who attend from all over the world. This, of course is the Quarter Horse Congress, in Columbus, Ohio. Here in Hocking we are lucky enough to have our feet in both worlds. We are surrounded by many trail systems which are close to home. And, we also have a few worldrenowned equestrian centers who host high profile events, within a few hours drive.
It is exciting for me to watch one of our members, who had shown last year at Congress, take a couple of younger members under her wing. The kindness and generosity of this young lady is setting the stage for the future of our horse world. The motto of OHC is “Horseman Helping Horseman”. Everyone likes to say it, but very few practice it. I love knowing that many of our members in the Hocking chapter really do ‘walk the walk’, instead of just ‘talking the talk’.
Our club is very family friendly and meet at the Home Tavern in Logan the third Sunday of every month at 7 p.m. Come in earlier for dinner and relaxed conversation prior to the meeting. Watch our Facebook page for more information about our club and upcoming events!
~Donna Shade HOLMES
Welcome to November. We have a double helping of news this month. Our Labor Day camp was a success. We had great weather and awesome rides at Mohican. We had three nights to camp and four excellent rides. The Saturday evening get-together was highlighted by our raffle for a mounting block and a manure basket with caddy. Member Cheryl Schneider won both! The 50/50 was won by Marie Duncan. The silent auction went well. Our haystack cover dish included chicken and beef with various toppings and, of course, many desserts. Thank you to Bob Picklesimer for morning coffee and some breakfasts.
Our work weekend was held September 19-21. There is now a grate over the hole going onto the trail downhill out of camp. The camping areas and alcoves were cleaned up and the restrooms cleaned. Just a reminder to anyone who camps at Mohican, hay must be picked up and not thrown into the woods as set out by Forestry in the permit
rules. Thank you for your help in complying. Of course there was plenty of great riding and eating at camp. Thank you to the Jamison’s and the Jacobsen’s for weed whacking the Teepee area and some other spots. We appreciate it very much. Thank you to all who came and worked. Mohican is a treasure, and it takes many hands to help maintain it for horsemen. A special highlight was Vickie’s granddaughter’s first official trail ride. We are very fortunate to have some great young riders in our club.
We would like to wish member Diane Tankred well on her continued recovery from hip replacement and to send our deepest sympathies to our treasurer, Sue Rhodes, on the passing of her mother at 101 years of age. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sue and her family. There was a camp at Mohican October 31 through November 2 hosted by Bob Picklesimer and Cowboys 4 Jesus. This was the camp closing camp.
Several of us plan to attend the state meeting in November and stay up to date on our organization. It should be a good time.
We have gotten some riding in since the heat broke last month. We have been to Mohican a couple times and camped at Beaver Creek with Wayne County. That was a beautiful camp. Thank you, Wayne. We also attended the Coshocton OHC Hog Roast. Wow...great trails and great rides. We had a meal Saturday and attended an auction and raffle. Thank you, Coshocton, for the wellorganized camp. Bruce’s young mare gets a little better with each ride and camp. Paso is doing a good job of being a trail mentor. Enjoy your rides!
~Bev Hanna
KNOX
Happy trails and greetings from Knox County! September saw many of our members doing some traveling with campouts at Deam Lake in Indiana, Shawnee State Park in Illinois and Mike and Teresa Smith on the Red Rock Ride in Utah. I am happy to report that our much delayed shelter house at Thayer Ridge Park has been completed and looks great! We want to thank again the Knox Foundation and Knox Park Director David Heithaus for all they did to make this possible. The club has voted
and approved the purchase of six wood and aluminum picnic tables that are now proudly sitting inside the shelter, just in time for our event that was held in October. Thanks to all who helped with these tables!
In the next article, I will hopefully have details about our Scavenger Hunt-Obstacle Challenge that was held October 11.
We meet the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Pizza Cottage in Mt Vernon. Come join us for a meeting, an event, or riding down Ohio’s beautiful trails!
~Cindy Cossin
LAKE
Our Lake chapter members look forward to the coming holidays with much joy and gratitude.
We have been quite diverse in our equine activities because of our varied interests. Right before Labor Day Rosemary and Ken Morgan spent time helping the Geauga County OHC assemble their Great Geauga County Fair exhibit on equestrian happenings in Northeast Ohio. Many persons found it interesting and informative. Barbara J. worked three days at the Great Geauga County Fair attending to mules
and donkeys. She belongs to the National Mule and Donkey Association because she has her own donkey named Elinor Barb did not exhibit Elinor because her manners are a work in progress. We wish her well next year. Cheyanne loves barrel racing. She has been competing in numerous fun shows with her young horse, Tatiana, who loves running barrels. In between runs Cheyanne has Oaklyn, her daughter, sitting high in the saddle. Barbara M. continues to do groundwork with her minihorse, Bingo. Barb also feels privileged to have introduced her friend, Callen, to trail riding at Pleasant Valley Park in Lake County. Barbara J. competed her mare in the Geauga Park Trail Challenge at Swine Creek where they did very well. There were no donkeys or mules competing, but they would have been welcome. I manned the final station of that trail challenge, which consisted of putting trash, a dixie cup, in the large wooden container provided by the park system. Sounds easy, doesn’t it? Some horses did not want to step up to the trash lid to open it. Some horses wanted no part of being near the container. And the bravest stepped right up beside the ‘Big Scary Box’ and tried to open the trash door themselves. There was never a dull moment. Dottie Drockton is the person in charge and put on a great trail challenge.
Ingrid N. and I rode both Geauga’s West Woods and Lake’s North Chagrin trails
Members at Deam Lake.
Members at Shawnee.
Terry, Phil, Kim and Kathy sitting at the new picnic table.
Barb and Bingo.
Rayneen and Red.
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together in September. We met a lovely couple in West Woods who admired both our horses, Romeo and Hannah. We wished them a great walk and in return, they replied that their travels had been made lovelier by sharing the trail with them.
Speaking of trails...I experienced the magnificence of some of our Western National Parks in Utah, Arizona and Nevada in August. I traveled with Geauga County’s Senior Citizens to the Grand Canyon, Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park, Bryce National Park and Zion National Park. While the other seniors were walking to a scenic view, I went to the stables at Zion where the horses and mules were stationed for those daring enough to ride out on a guided trail ride. Riding was not offered on my tour, but I found the equines anyways. One particular horse, Rodeo Red, could have been my horse, Hannah’s twin; same breed, same color, same temperament, and same hug-loving soul. His background was similar too; reining horse turned trail horse. The young lady in charge shared many stories with me about our horses. What a pleasant way to immerse one’s experience in the awesome majesty and beauty of Bryce and Zion. Marianne from Perry County OHC wrote about her rides in Bryce and Zion with some other ladies. We are all blessed to share these magnificent lands unique to the United States.
The Tri-County OHC State ride in September was wellattended. Kriss Ropp and myself took Hannah, my sweet, aged mare and a big bright buckskin gelding, whose name is yet to be determined, to the Cleveland Metroparks Mounted Police
Obstacle course on Saturday morning. Hannah is an old hand at obstacles, but we wanted to expose the big guy to different things. He did well. He was also great on a short trail ride. Rosemary, Ken, Michelle S., Barb M., and Lisa W. sat together enjoying a finetasting dinner along with Kris R. Paul A. and myself. Many friendly folks from the other OHC chapters liked the dinner and desserts too. Chris and Lou Slavik did a commendable job minding the sale tables and veterans’ donations space. My niece, Paula H., an Army Veteran herself, donated several hand-knitted scarves and hats to the Veterans collection. She once had horses and may yet try riding again. Line-dancing followed dinner. The dancing was fun for those who tried. Kris and Paul joined the other dancers and really seemed to be enjoying themselves. I was filming. What a joyous time all seemed to be having. Kathy King joined in with some banter. We left as others relaxed by a large campfire warming themselves in the chilly night air.
We from Lake County, but really from all the participating counties, wish to thank Big D’s and Schneiders Saddlery for everything you do in sponsoring our horse events. We appreciate all the items that have been donated as prizes or awards. It’s definitely fun spending the bonus bucks while shopping.
The nameless Big Guy and I are doing the Geauga Park Headwaters horse rides in October. We are going to do the Buckeye and Maple Bridle trails. Then we will try the Moonlight ride later that evening. In my next writing the Big Guy will hopefully have a real name and have his own adventures as Hannah’s buddy.
Many happy adventures to you and yours!
~Rayneen Tisovic
LICKING
Happy Fall y’all! The Licking County OHC annual fun show was held on September 6. We had great weather, decent attendance and lots of fun. The fried chicken ride at Infirmary Mound was held on September 27. It was a gorgeous day for a ride with quite a few of our members hitting the trails and enjoying a great potluck lunch afterwards. The annual Oktoberfest camping
weekend was held October 1719 at Dillon State Park. Bill and Linda Bering hosted a trail ride at Lobdell November 1, followed by a brown bag lunch.
It’s that time of year to renew your Licking County OHC membership for 2026. You can renew anytime by mail or online. All current forms are on the state OHC webpage. If you carry the equine liability insurance through the OHC, be sure to renew before the end of the year so there is no lapse in your coverage. If you are renewing online, click on the PayPal option to pay. It will then give you the option to pay by debit or with credit card as guest.
Hopefully you have been keeping track of your trail miles to turn in at the end of the year. These miles are incredibly beneficial in showing the use of our parks and trails.
Let’s get out there and enjoy this beautiful fall with our friends and equine buddies on our amazing trails!
~Crystal Kirk
LOGAN
The State Parks and Forests were getting hit hard by Logan County OHC members in August and September. The State Parks that
miles were logged; Alum Creek, Buck Creek, Mohican, Van Buren and Kiser Lake to name a few. I personally finally got to knock off my list Kiser Lake and Mohican.
We had two members attend the State Chili Cookoff and three that attended our Logan County OHC ride on August 30 in Van Buren. Terry and Becky Martin hosted our Logan County OHC meeting September 16. Terry grilled up hotdogs and hamburgers with all the fixings and had a potluck for side dishes. Thank you both for hosting the meeting.
For our October meeting we did something different. We met October 21 at 5 p.m. at Spirwood Standard Bred Farm in Raymond. We were shown how the breeding farm operation works, it was very interesting. We ate after the meeting at Old Stone Haus in Broadway. November 9, Marmon Valley is hosting a ride at their place at 12:30 p.m. It looks as though everyone is taking advantage of these wonderful dry trails in Ohio, it doesn’t get any better than this. Have a great rest of fall, enjoy!
~Cynthia Orr
LORAIN
Hello horse lovers! We do hope you have been enjoying this
Cheyanne and Oaklyn.
Potluck.
Fried chicken ride.
Fun show.
Logan County OHC
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autumn riding. Our scheduled camping season has come to a close. We have had some great rides throughout Ohio and out of state, as well. Some of the hardy folks in our council will continue to ride throughout the winter months; you just may not recognize them with three extra layers. It goes to show you that with the proper winter attire, it can be invigorating and a good way to keep your horse fit. Of course, an indoor arena is another great option, if you happen to have access to one.
This November, Willow Creek Veterinary Service is our sponsor for our calendar. Lorain County OHC much appreciates your sponsorship.
This past September, we had scheduled rides and activities each weekend! September 6, we had several members attend the Spur for the Cure benefit ride located at Camp Manatoc in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. September 12-14 The State Ride at Mohican for the Chili Cook Off was very pleasant. Ashland was very organized with many of their members working very hard to help make it the great success that it was. All of the chili was outstanding and so was the potluck dinner. I’m thankful that I wore stretchy pants as I certainly was stuffed by the end of the dinner. This year, Lorain County won first place, and we received a very nice sized trophy. Thanks to Cheryl and Billy Garn who prepared the chili and to
Vince and Sue for assisting. There were many great items auctioned off and many fine door prizes. The money raised helps to keep Pleasant Hills trails and horse tie lines in good order.
Our September Lorain County OHC meeting featured an obstacle course. Monica H. and Lara M. organized the course with many others in our council assisting. It was a great opportunity for horses and riders to experience a variety of obstacles to help desensitize their horses to spooky things and to challenge their minds and bodies.
The third week, some in our council attended the Northwest Area Regional Ride at Van Buren State Park while others attended a ride at AEP Conesville Horse Area. Both weekend rides were found to be enjoyable by the members of Lorain in attendance. The last week, some left for Big Elk Lick Horse Camp, roaming around the Allegheny Mountains in search of Elk and/or peace and quiet.
Our Lorain County OHC membership meeting will be held November 17 at the Carlisle Visitor Center in the Black River room at 7 p.m. On Saturday, November 29, please join us for our annual Turkey Trot day ride at Wellington Reservation. Remember, it is nearing time to turn in miles to our Ohio State OHC so that we may demonstrate to our state representatives how often we utilize them and appreciate them. This is how they help determine the funding they will approve for our horse trails to keep up and running. Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
~Kathy Duncan MADISON
All is well in the world when we can ride in great weather, our horses are not too hot, and the horse flies are gone. Writing
this in early October, life is great for those who trail ride, although not great for the farmers who have faced drought. Madison County members have been busy riding, traveling, competing, and rehabbing horses. Four of our members traveled in September to Wyoming to the R Lazy S Ranch, which is a dude ranch located adjacent to the entrance to Teton National Park and looks out on the Tetons and Jackson Ski mountain. Judy Chambers and Jan Maki have enjoyed stays at this ranch for many years, and make it an annual vacation to ride great horses in amazing scenery. They enjoy beautiful accommodations and exceptional food. Members Susan Day and Janet Nelson also went there this year; Susan for her second year and Janet for her first. Both have registered to return next year with spouses, having loved the experience. Riding in the Tetons and adjacent areas is a rare treat, and having horses ready to go when you walk to the corral is quite luxurious. For all day rides, the staff packs your choice of lunch. It’s back to normal when you return home and get dirty doing it all yourself. We look forward to hearing stories of the wildlife encountered (elk, bear, coyotes, and sometimes moose) and beautiful rides taken. See the accompanying photos. Other members have been busy riding Buck Creek State Park, Deer Creek State Park, Elkins Creek, Hocking State Forest, East Fork State Park, Alum Creek State Park, Caesar’s Ford, Van Buren State Park, and Pike State Forest. Some involved camping, which has been rewarding and lots of fun. One memorable
camping and riding experience for me was at East Fork State Park, when we were sure it would not rain, only to be caught in a huge thunderstorm and a leaf whirlwind. Our horses stopped in unison and turned their rumps to the wind, so we just stood there for a bit, getting soaked to the bone. I poured water out of my boots when we got back to camp having learned the lesson to watch the radar and always carry rain gear. We tried to be grateful for much-needed rain.
One of our members, Izzy Walker, participated in an Endurance Ride at Caesar’s Creek in October. Natalie Mirick and Jeff Lieb are competing in Hunter Jumper events, and many of our members are competing in our Gymkhana series. We are a diverse group with a common bond of a love of horse activities. Madison County along with Clark County have a second Buck Creek camp-out and obstacle course scheduled at the end of of October. We hope to have a great turn out to test our horses and ourselves with simple trail obstacles on the honor system as well as trying out the What 3 Words app for pinpointing a location and navigating to it. Most of the State parks use What 3 Words for communicating to staff about maintenance issues or to help find someone who is lost. Try it out! This app has the world mapped into a grid of 10-foot squares, with each square having a unique combination of 3 words. You then send that information through to another person (or park rangers) to identify exactly where you are or where you want them to look. It is a marvelous tool.
For the Deer Creek State Park update, the horse camp is now open! There is a water line installed for water for your horses as well as new pit latrines. Be sure to reserve your site via reserveohio.com. The day use
Ava at Carlisle.
Adriana on Skip at Obstacle course.
Lorain County wins Chili Cook Off.
Janet Nelson in Wyoming at R Lazy S Ranch.
Susan Day in Wyoming at R Lazy S Ranch.
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parking is still at the park office until the old day use area is readied for use again. Our trails are clear—as of today—and ready to ride! Come and enjoy the work that has been done to mitigate mud and clear the trails. Our Gymkhana Series has ended with an average of nearly 70 riders at each of the five events. It was a great year, with many returning riders and lots of happy first-timers. We are a fun event that is open to all abilities and ages. Some people just walk their horses through the course, while others ride all-out and go for the high points. Whatever your goal is, we are happy to cheer you on and congratulate you on completing the run. We will start again in May with monthly events.
Enjoy the gift of your horse and your companions as you move through life. Enjoy all that nature provides to us as healing that we need. Remember to be grateful for it all.
~Lisa Reynolds
MEDINA
Big shout out to Mother Nature who provided us with fabulous weather for our third annual combined state ride with Cuyahoga and Summit chapters. Another big thanks to our volunteers who helped set up the auction and ‘treasures’ tables, sold treasures and 50/50 tickets, worked the auction and obstacle ride and served dinner on Saturday. Folks like Chris and Lou Slavik, Lee Hendrickson, Linda Golding, Barb Vega, Sandy Bauer, Maureen Mizerak and Kathy King. It takes many people to stage an event like this, and we always need all the help we can get. Kathi Green and Warren Soergel of Centerra/ Purina gave a ‘gut-wrenching’ (excuse the pun) presentation on equine digestion. On Saturday 18 participants challenged their horse and themselves at an
obstacle course staged by the Cleveland Metroparks Mounted Police. We topped off the day with a live auction with a couple of lively auctioneers, Kathy King and Mike Carano. Their efforts helped us raise more money than last year’s auction. Great job! We topped the evening off with line-dancing instructions from Marie Wood, who had us boot-scooting into the night. Thanks to all who came and a big thanks to committee members Joani, Carole, Christa, Molly, Cathy, Carolyn, Raydeen and Rosemary, we couldn’t have done it without you!
It is membership renewal time for 2026, and Medina has already welcomed two new members, Diane McConnel and Mary Jeffery. Our numbers are strong, but like most chapters we need more involvement. Like most chapters we need good communication. Medina newsletter editor Kathy Schmidt sends out via email or post mail our newsletter each month. But members need to read it! If you are reading this article, be sure and check your email for our newsletter. Kathy includes our schedule as well as forms for other chapters rides and events. Don’t read email? Maybe make it a point to start.
Lastly, it’s the season to be thankful. Thank your chapter friends who make sure there are rides and events that interest you and support your trails. Be thankful for friends who lend you their horse so you can enjoy the fall trails. Be thankful for your vet, your farrier and that guy that sells you hay for a price you can afford. And of course, be thankful for Ohio Horseman’s Council, for horsemen helping horsemen. Being thankful down in the valley!
~Rosemary
PERRY
Winner, winner chicken dinner! New members, but not new faces
Michaela James and Doug Childs of New York represented the club as first-time competitors at the annual Chili Cookoff at Mohican in September. Doug whipped up a delicious pot of chili and earned third place honors. Great job!
Donna Shade led a small group of ladies from Three Reasons Farm to Ash Cave for a spectacular ride. The trails were wide open thanks to the new forest manager at Hocking. It was great to be able to see the trail
and not be fighting multiflora. This is a really nice ride, but you need a lot of daylight. Though we predominantly walked, with a few breaks and not really wasting time it took nine hours to traverse the 20 plus miles.
The Perry club was well represented at the SE Regional Ride hosted by Morgan County at the Appalachian Wildlife area. The weather couldn’t have been better which was reflected by the attendance. Don and Vicki Wagner did a great job as hosts. The trails were in good shape, and everyone went home with a full belly and a door prize.
As we slide into fall riding, we have folks headed to Beaver Creek to join Knox and Licking Counties as well as all the local riding areas. It’s one of the best times to enjoy riding as the leaves turn and the air becomes brisk.
The holiday party date has been confirmed for February 7, 2026. As planning information evolves, details will be announced but save this date because this is always a fun time.
It’s that time for officer nominations and elections. This year’s officers did a great job and are very much appreciated. It’s been a good year and there’s more to come so please join us on the second Tuesday of the month at The Pizza Place in New Lexington. Happy Fall y’all!
~Marianne
for getting in last minute riding and camping this year.
One important thing to think about is how you can help your chapter. The success of a chapter is having everyone help in any way you can. Attending meetings and events is important but consider running for an office. It is not as hard as you would think. A good leader is someone who learns to delegate and lets others do the work! A job that is shared by many is less work and a lot of fun. Think about how you can help.
Hopefully you have remembered to renew your OHC dues for the coming year and are making plans for 2026 so you don’t miss anything.
Happy Thanksgiving to all! Enjoy the rest of the year.
~Jo Ellen
SUMMIT
First and foremost, SCOHC wishes to thank everyone who participated in the State Ride at South Chagrin in October. This was a coordinated effort by Cuyahoga, Medina and Summit County clubs to sponsor a camping weekend fundraiser. Miraculously, the weather cooperated this year. Special thanks to all those who attended and camped. So many people behind the scenes worked tirelessly to make this a special weekend for you. From planning, setup, coordinating activities, food prep, cleanup, record keeping, it all contributed to our collective successes.
From the photos shared on Facebook, there were a lot of smiling faces throughout the weekend on and off the trails. There may not have been any scouts for Dancing with the Stars or America’s Got Talent lurking about but that did not stop some pretty high stepping gents and fillies on the dance floor from working off dessert or just feeling their oats. Food and fellowship were in generous supply whether sharing some of the great riding opportunities in Ohio or high adventures to be had out west. It’s been a great year for riding weather and looks like there is more to come.
STARK
Happy fall season! Cooler nights and much warmer than normal days gave us good times
Work was completed on the new corral fencing and gates at the Richfield Heritage Preserve. SCOHC partnered with the former Girl Scout Camp to replace barn and fencing material at the former Summer Barn. With funds raised from
Jan Maki and Judy Chambers at R Lazy S Ranch.
Jeff at Mohican.
Michaela and Doug, chili cookoff.
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previous events we were able to put on a new roof on the barn. With additional fundraisers we purchased materials to replace the old, dilapidated corral. Partnering with RHP volunteers, SCOHC members were able to remove rotted posts and rails and replace them with new wood material. Mounting the metal gates finished the project. Thank you to all the volunteers who worked to make this project such a success and an asset to our community.
One of the special events of our riding year is the Annual Fall Prayer Ride at Richfield Heritage Preserve. This annual event is a solitary or group opportunity to ride silently, reflecting on the beauty and serenity found on the trails through the splendor of creation. The ride is followed by fellowship of a shared fireside meal and uplifting music provided by our talented musicians and anyone wishing to lift their voice in praise.
Hunting season is under way so remember to wear reflective clothing or make your presence known if you don’t. We need each and every one of you to keep our numbers strong and horse trails open in Ohio.
~Joann Ulichney
UNION
Howdy, everyone. Fall is my favorite time of year to ride, and I hope everyone has had the opportunity to hit the trails and ride. Jim and I attended the Autumn at Alum Trail Ride potluck in September. We had a good time as always. Thank you Delaware County for an awesome event.
I attended the Delaware County Chapter Meeting in October. Members of the Columbus Police Horse Unit gave an informative presentation on the horse unit. The Tuesday maintenance crew at Alum Creek State Park
continued to work on the trails. The trails are in great shape and ready to ride. Happy trails.
~Debbie Strayton
WARREN
We had a good time at our Founders Day dinner. Thanks to everyone who came and brought wonderful food. I chaired the event and went low-key. We ate, we visited, and then we had a communal campfire. The weather was perfect, everyone got a door prize thanks to Belinda and Ramona for helping with those, it was a great night. Thanks also to everyone who helped with door prizes, firewood, etc, and especially to Ramona for helping decorate. My SO Bill jumped in with both feet to help make it a memorable night, and I even got a chance to ride. I’m including a few photos this month, two of the decorations, and one of members enjoying themselves.
Meanwhile, your Over the Hill Gang is still trying to get things cleared back. We meet the first and third Wednesdays of each month, weather permitting, from January through the beginning of November. After the first Wednesday in November, we knock off for the holidays, though we’ll sometimes get a chance to do a specific task or two.
This year we decided to drop the August work day since the AbiKhan+ Challenge is no longer held. There is an Endurance ride November 1. The ride manager wanted to schedule a Saturday work day before that so that endurance riders who worked through the week could help. We scheduled that for October 11, with a rain date of the 18. I’ll hopefully have a report on that next month.
Speaking of riding, it was brought to my attention that many people might not know why there are fences along the ends of some camp sites at Caesar Creek. The park did this to help prevent people from encroaching
on our mounting blocks and such. Several times members were camping there, only to find tents tied to a mounting block or having it otherwise unavailable, so we thank the park staff for that.
That’s it for this month. Happy riding, and Happy Thanksgiving since the next article won’t be out until after that.
~Mickie
WASHINGTON
Happy fall greetings fellow equestrians. I hope your trails have been full of fun and good times. We at the Washington County chapter have been enjoying the fall weather, the changes in the leaves and cooler temperatures which make for great rides. God is great and has blessed us with some very beautiful trails to enjoy with new and old friends alike. I do hope you have been blessed as well and are doing the same.
Our chapter Vice President Darrell McKay is pictured riding his horse Gunner, as well as Jr. Ambassador Zayden Sandy on Tricky with friends showing that all ages can enjoy a pleasant ride any day of the year.
The Ohio State extension office in Washington County agent T.J. Wells was the guest speaker at our November meeting. The main topic of discussion was the care and growth of the hay we raise or buy to feed our horses. One needs to be sure it is of good quality, free of molds, deceased animals, foxtail, poison hemlock or other
harmful plants for the safety and wellbeing of our horses through the winter months ahead. Several of our chapter members attended the Morgan County Regional ride at the Appalachian Hills trails. What a nice fall day to ride their fantastic trails. Everyone had a good time from riding the trails to camping with lots of food and visiting friends. Thank you to the Morgan County chapter for a good time. Our chapter trail ride and children’s ride at Kinderhook for Wayne National was October 18. We had a good turnout for the ride, along with chapter members to walk the horses for the children to ride in the afternoon. Thank you to all members who attended and helped make this a great day for possible future horsemen and women to learn to ride and enjoy horses. One never knows when horse fever may strike and spark a flame for the future love of horses in our younger generation. Help keep the flames alive so they can dream about owning their own horse, and one day they may make that dream a reality. Keep your blanket wet, your saddle warm, your bridle handy, the trails cleared and ride on. Stay safe and count your blessings.
~Rita V. Schultheis
WAYNE
Warm days and cool nights with friends on horseback and around a campfire make wonderful memories of this September and early October.
Summit County OHC
Jim enjoying potluck at the Autumn at Alum Trail Ride.
Founders Day.
Warren County OHC
Darrell McKay
Zayden, Lady, and Brenda.
County Lines
As autumn arrives, we are still in full camping and trail riding mode. We had a week long campout planned for Pine Creek in Hocking Hills for the second week in October as well as a few other weekend campouts closer to home.
We started the month with a week long fundraiser, selling tickets at the Wayne County Fair. Our gate was directly across from the Clydesdales which was a big plus. The weather was very warm and dry so turnout for the ‘Greatest Junior County Fair’ in the state of Ohio was extremely good. Taran Tate had a good fair. He was chosen to serve as an attendant on the King and Queen’s court. He also won Senor Ground Roping Champion and had a lot of success showing Gus and Doc in western pleasure and contest classes. Tammy Burkhart and Jody Jackson rode their horses, Alibi and Cortez and Phineas to park cars at the fair. They were a great representation of what a help horsemen can render.
The Tuesday rides at Mohican have been well attended as this dry weather has continued. A friendly reminder, all Tuesday rides will be held at noon until the trails close. The Blue Trail will remain partially closed until next spring. Please be respectful of this closure as it is for our safety. There will be logging in the closed area with lots of large equipment that can spook a horse and cause an accident. The trail can be partially ridden as an out and back trail.
The camp out at Beaver Creek was well attended with eight rigs. Thanks to Kim Scarborough for hosting. The trails are in
excellent condition and wellmarked. Thank you to the Beaver Creek club for all your hard work! The trails are beautiful and challenging and the campground improvements are awesome. Janis Moore was our camp host, and it was nice to catch up with her over our potluck dinner. Thanks to Sheila Haury for hosting a camp out at Malabar. Those weekend campouts close to home let us enjoy the fruits of our hard trail work and are so convenient for those who work.
We had another fundraiser with our annual pony rides at Heritage Days. We had seven horses and two ponies working for five hours on Saturday and four on Sunday. The volunteers were greatly appreciated as it takes a small army to have enough people for each horse to have a leader and a side walker for safety. Denver and her friend Chloe helped out with clean up and water duty. Jet, Zoey, Taren and Eden helped with side walking. It was nice to see the young people pitching in and having a good time. Those young legs were sure helpful! Elsie’s horse Diva did double duty this month as she gave pony rides for four hours at Elsie’s church fall festival the week before Heritage Days.
The month ended with a camp out at Salt Fork, hosted by Bev and Bruce Hanna. Twelve people attended October 2-5. The trails were challenging but in great shape. There was a triathlon on Saturday, so the Purple Trail was closed. Even with the plethora of bikes and runners, we still had good trails to ride, and everyone had a safe and fun time.
I will end with a sad note, long time member Tammy Burkhart’s husband, Tony, passed away October 2. Our prayers and thoughts are with her and her family.
Stay safe and hope to see you on the trails soon.
~Sue Baker
WOOD
Whew! Wood County OHC has been quite active these past couple of months. I’m not saying by any means that I am excited about being done with our camping season, but I think my horse is ready for some rest. I had promised a quick review and evaluation of our stay at the Hickory Creek Wilderness Ranch, a business which has advertised right here in the Corral, that’s how our club found the location. Due to some family emergencies, a
few of the originally planned attendees could not make the trip out to Pennsylvania in early September; however, the six Wood County OHC members who made the five-hour trip had a wonderful time and would highly recommend a visit. Camp host Shar was absolutely amazing and went well above and beyond her job description in helping us to have an outstanding and memorable stay. The accommodations for both horse and rider were very comfortable, and all of our horses enjoyed the generous turnout areas, although I will mention that if the weather had been warmer, some shade for the horses would have been welcomed. All in all, it was a fantastic visit, with the trails in wonderful condition—although we never saw a bear (insert sad face). Be sure to patronize locations and businesses who advertise in the Corral and make sure to mention that you saw their ad!
Later September brought the Northwest Regional State Ride, which was held at Van Buren State Park. Several pictures were posted on Facebook, along with comments about this wonderful event, but I just want to add some notes specific to Wood County. First, thanks to Al Sidel, our regional representative, and his wife Marla, who planned a spectacular event. While Al will be the first one to say that “it takes everyone to help out to make this event happen”, every circus needs a ringleader! So, thanks again Al and Marla for doing it again.
Along that same line, I would like to mention how wonderful it is to be a member of Wood County OHC, and to be involved with the Northwest Region. We have so many members who are willing to step up and participate and contribute and just do. There were so many activities and opportunities to get to know other horse lovers during the
weekend, not to mention all the delicious food that was prepared and available for devouring! If you’ve never taken the time to attend your local State Ride, you are definitely missing out. And if you are not yet involved and contributing to your local chapter, make plans to do so now! Whether you are an artist, self-proclaimed chef, good at cleaning, work with kids, or whatever, there’s sure to be a need that you can contribute to or help with. Speaking of contributing skills and creativity, we had a Scarecrow Contest during the State Ride, with each local chapter being responsible for designing and building a scarecrow. These were then voted on by attendees, who put coins or dollars in a jar with the scarecrow’s entry number on it. The money earned was to be used for trail work and improvements at State Parks. The scarecrows were later auctioned during our live auction on Saturday evening. I am very proud to announce that Wood County OHC’s scarecrow won first place! A big thanks to Dawn and Cindy for their hard work in designing and building the cute guy. Rumor has it that Cindy based her design from a picture of Wood County OHC president Jon Myers. Thanks also to Jon himself and Jeff who helped to put together ‘Big Jon’s’
Wayne County OHC
Juliann and Merida enjoying an amazing view.
Enjoying the Overlook at Hickory Creek Wilderness area.
Dawn and Cindy with their new Beau.
County Lines
base and to carry him from Dawn’s campsite to the display area. On a personal side note, another thanks to Erie County for their super-cute scarecrow, which is currently in residence in my front yard, helping to make my house festive and fall-like. The second weekend of October brought our annual Hobo Stew, renamed this year as the Hobo Stew and Soup Fest. Along the same line as above, a big thanks to Shirley and Amy for their hard work in planning and preparing for this always-anticipated event. A fantastic time and amazing food was enjoyed by everyone in attendance. It is also
worth mentioning that we had a sold-out campground for this weekend, and this was another great event to share a fun time with ‘non-horsey’ people, since we included family campers in the poker ride/hike, auction and raffles, costume parade, movies, free popcorn, trick or treating, and hayrides. This is yet another example of one of the ways that we as OHC members can contribute to making Ohio better, one hoof beat at a time!
During the weekend of October 24-26, Wood County OHC members went south to Sycamore State Park for the last trip of the season. While the fall
Place Mailing Label Here (from last issue)
New Address
City State Zip Mail to: Horsemen’s Corral, PO Box 32, Lodi, OH 44254 or email address change to: michelle@thehorsemenscorral.com
colors weren’t as spectacular as usual, it was overall a very nice time and a terrific getaway. We are fortunate to live in Ohio where there are so many horse camping options. Sometimes it is easy to get critical of ODNR for not restricting our horse sites to just ‘horse people’ but we need to remember that there are many states where riders don’t even have a camping option outside of privately owned locations. Communication with the state is one of OHC’s purposes and functions; if you have concerns or comments about our state facilities, you really need to get involved with your local chapter and attend the state OHC meetings.
Looking ahead, as I said at the entry of this article, we are technically finished with the camping season for 2025, but several of our members frequently get together for ‘pop up’ rides at various locations as
weather permits. Please check out our Facebook page to get involved and join in the fun and camaraderie.
Our monthly meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month, with the exception of holidays and in November, Election Day, when we meet on the following Tuesday, or a date mentioned on our Facebook page. We gather at Mi Tequila’s in Fostoria (1659 N. Countyline Street) at 6:30 p.m. We encourage all horse-minded persons to come out and join us. We are a fun, diverse group and we would love to meet you!
During this season of Thanksgiving, I hope that you and your family (including of course all four-legged members!) can take a few minutes or hours to pause and remember all the blessings that you have. Stay safe and right side up in the saddle!
