The Horsemen’s Corral is the official publication for
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
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: 2019 AQHA Champion Stallion, Trashy Affair, demonstrating the sliding stop in reining competition. Using specialized shoes, the sliding stop is less jarring and damaging to the horse’s legs and joints than an abrupt stop where the hooves stick in the ground. Learn more about Trashy Affair on page 18 in this issue or contact DeGraff Stables at www.DeGraffStablesMarketPlace.com.
Photo by Chelsea Schneider Media.
Ride In Sync
Training Tip Part 3: Developing Overall Body Control
by Terry Myers
In last month’s article I talked about teaching the horse to give to pressure. Once I have my horse giving well to both rein and leg pressure, it’s time start developing control of all the body parts. Remember last month we talked about the three different parts of the horse; the head/neck, the shoulder/ribcage and the hip. Most of what I do with a horse is to develop control of the shoulders. If I do that, my horse will not kick, rear or buck (keeping me out of the dirt). However, softness in all three parts of the horse’s body builds the overall performance of the horse. The basis for the training described below, and most training, is applying pressure and then making a clear way out of that pressure. If you are asking your horse to move, you apply pressure...as well as a way out of that pressure. I think of it as opening and closing doors, giving your horse the opportunity to move away from the pressure.
Early on in a horse’s training, I start with teaching the horse to move their hip while keeping their shoulders relatively still. In other words, teach your horse to do a forehand turn while staying soft in the bridle. Start by shortening your left rein by running your hand down the rein to the point that you are about 15-18 inches from the bit. Do not pull back, but pick up your arm, bringing your horse’s nose toward their left shoulder. Lean forward in the saddle (this in one of the few times I will advocate leaning forward!), but still keeping your butt in the saddle. Take your right leg off your horse (opening the door). Move your left leg back (close to back girth) and start bouncing your left leg (closing the door). This is not a kick, but rather bouncing
Tipping the nose and leaning forward to start pushing the hip.
your whole leg, making contact with your calf on the horse. As soon as you feel your horse start to take a step over with his hind leg, you reward you horse by releasing all pressure. This is not about pulling him around by the mouth; you are pushing him around with your leg pressure. If your horse is moving too much in the front end, open your left rein wider. If your horse is just walking in a circle, lift you left rein hand higher. Once your horse will readily take one step over, ask for two steps. With practice, you can have your horse doing 360 degree turns on the forehand in about a week. If done properly, you are not only teaching the horse to move their hip, you are also teaching them to soften their shoulders. Be sure to work both directions equally by reversing the above directions.
Now we can teach the horse to move their shoulders over while keeping their hips stationary, basically a pivot on the haunches. Start by sitting back in the saddle. This is not necessarily leaning back as it is rolling your hips back into the saddle and ‘sitting on your pockets.’ Ask your horse to pivot towards the left by opening the left rein (opening the door in the direction we want the nose to go) and tip the nose to
the left. Hopefully you have done your homework from last month so that your horse will tip their nose toward that slightest amount of pressure. Take your left leg off of the horse and move it a little forward, which helps you sit back. Apply slight pressure with your right rein, positioning your hand near the pommel of the saddle. Drive with your right leg back by the back cinch. You are looking for your horse to keep their back legs stationary and move their front end to the left. Reward one step in the front end toward the left. If you horse starts backing up, you have too much rein pressure. If he walks forward, you don’t have enough pressure. If done properly and consistently, you can have your horse doing a nice and even 360 pivot within a few weeks. I’m not talking reining spin, but an even and consistent turn. You horse wants to be comfortable. By applying pressure (closing the door) and making a clear direction toward the release of pressure (opening door), your horse can learn these maneuvers without a fight. The importance of these maneuvers cannot be understated. They are the basis of body control and the beginning to learning many things including; lead changes, the side passing, working a gate or back thru in a trail class, cow work and control out on the trail when encountering challenges situations, just to name a few. 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.
Tyler Vrh and Stacy Thacker
Mid-Ohio Marauders
Melissa Shaner, Tyler Vrh, Marcy Luttrell.
August wranglers.
Mid-Ohio Marauders August Wait, Cock, Shoot
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
The Saturday and Sunday results from the Wait, Cock, Shoot I:
SATURDAY
LIMITED WRANGLER, Nathaniel Hewitt
OPEN WRANGLER, Raielon Evans
LIMITED RIFLE, Alex Gornichec
OPEN RIFLE, John Roach
LIMITED SHOTGUN, Olivia Boysel
OPEN SHOTGUN, Stacy Thacker
RES. SENIOR COWGIRL, Marcy Luttrell
SENIOR COWGIRL, Renee Calvin
RES. SR. COWBOY, Clayton Lightfield
RESERVE COWBOY, Steve Keech
RESERVE COWGIRL, Kayla Lightfield
OVERALL COWGIRL, Stacy Thacker
OVERALL OVERALL, Tyler Vrh
SUNDAY
LIMITED WRANGLER, Nathaniel Hewitt
RES. SR. COWGIRL, Connie Ricketts
RESERVE SENIOR COWBOY, Tim Calvin
RESERVE COWBOY, Eric Nelson
RESERVE COWGIRL, Marcy Luttrell
OVERALL COWGIRL, Melissa Shaner OVERALL OVERALL, Tyler Vrh
We also celebrated several move ups, Jeff Gornichec from M1 to M2, Nicholas Hall from M2 to M3, and Mike Maris from SM2 to SM3. Look for dance videos on Facebook!
As always, if you are interested in joining the Mid-Ohio Marauders, the central Ohio club
for Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association (CMSA), please visit us at Midohiomarauders. com or on Facebook at Mid-Ohio Marauders. See you soon! The Marauders will kick off the 2026 season the weekend of October 24-26 with our Year End Fiesta. We will hold our Year End Awards Banquet on Saturday evening. Check out the CMSA website for details.
Michigan Trail Riders Association, Inc.
Changes Within the MTRA
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, 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 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 Michigan Trail Riders Association at mtra.org
TALL AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE CONGRESS
September 27-October 26, 2025 • Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, Ohio
he All American Quarter Horse Congress is the world’s largest horse show with about 26,000 entries in 2024. Held annually at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, the show attracts more than 650,000 people, and generates over $409 million for the central Ohio economy.
The All American Quarter Horse Congress is hosted by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association, an affiliate of the American
Quarter Horse Association. Our mission is to protect and promote the Quarter Horse and the interests of owners, breeders, exhibitors, and enthusiasts. OQHA is committed to setting the standard in the equine industry by engaging equine enthusiasts through world-class competition, recreational activities, education, and engagement of the next generation of participants and industry leaders.
Congress Ticketed Events
Freestyle Reining Competition and PBR Challenger Series
Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the thrill of the Congress ticketed events!
Often compared to a figure skater’s performance, the
Congress Freestyle Reining competition combines the athletics and finesser of reining maneuvers with the melodies of popular music and costumes in one of the Congress’s most popular, sell-out events. Get your ticket today before they are gone! The Freestyle Reining is scheduled for Friday, October 3 at 7 p.m.
The Congress will once again host a PBR Challenger Series event on Friday, October 10 at 7 p.m. Every seat in the VS Code Red Coliseum puts you right on top of the action, where the world’s toughest bull riders square off against the world’s topranked bulls for $20,000 in cash.
The Congress PBR is one of the last events before the PBR Challenger Series Championship, held in Las Veags. The Columbus event will showcase some of the nation’s top riders as they work to earn those last couple points to qualify them!
The Congress also has a new experience available for PBR fans. Become a PBR VIP and get a pre-event, backstage tour of the Congress PBR. Meet some of the riders and some of the world’s most rank bulls as you
learn what goes into producing a top-tier event.
Purchase tickets for events online at www. quarterhorsecongress.com!
Admission and Parking Information
Admission to the All American Quarter Horse Congress is free with the exception of special events.
Parking Passes
Daily parking is $25 Thursday through Sunday and $15 Monday and Tuesday. You may obtain an entire event parking pass at any time during the show for $75. Due to the generosity of sponsors, parking is free every Wednesday.
Attendees who purchase onetime admissions must park north of 17th Avenue. All whole-show pass holders may park south of 17th Avenue. These individuals with whole-show passes may also park trucks and cars on top of the Gilligan Barn, but no trailers are permitted on top of the barn.
There will be only one-way traffic around the Gilligan Barn.
Any vehicle, including trailers, trucks, cars, or golf carts, that parks in an unauthorized area, or without proper permits, will be towed at the owner’s expense. Contact SP+ Parking with any questions.
PLEASE NOTE: Admission and restricted parking rules will be enforced beginning September 25.
Horse Trailer Parking
All horse trailers parked south of 17th Avenue will be subject to the daily camping fee of $60 per day from the date of arrival. Trailers not being used for camping may park in the designated parking area north of 17th Avenue at no charge.
Other Motorized Vehicles
No small, motorized vehicles (except golf carts or handicapped scooters) are allowed on the Ohio Expo Center grounds.
No Gators, Mules, segways, mopeds, scooters, or similar type vehicles are permitted on the show grounds by nonapproved show personnel. Golf carts will not be allowed in barns or in restricted areas after the beginning of the show. A golf cart permit is required for all golf carts, and a valid driver’s license is required. Golf carts will have limited access in some areas, and signs will be posted. Those violating the golf cart rules will be subject to a fine. Golf carts may only be rented from the exclusive provider, Eagle Golf Cars. No outside
solicitation permitted for golf cart rentals. Golf carts may be rented through Eagle Golf Cars, www. eaglegolfcars.net, 888/432-3059, 740/756-0518.
Trade Show Information
The All American Quarter Horse Congress offers more than 200 commercial exhibit spaces over 20 acres of indoor and outdoor areas, creating a one-stop shopping destination. Commercial exhibitors offer everything from show clothing and tack to trucks, trailers, art, jewelry, furniture, western wear, and so much more!
The 2025 trade show runs daily September 27 through October 26, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. SundayThursday and 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
OHIO EXPO CENTER MAP
Space is first come, first serve. All personal items must be removed from the building overnight.
Requirements
Participants are required to display dogs in the designated
Puppy Alley and Rescue Row area only. Participants will occupy individual spaces. No dogs less than 8 weeks of age will be permitted. All dogs must have a current health certificate prior to arriving onsite, and certificates must be available
for inspection every day the dog is onsite. All dogs are subject to examination by a Congressdesignated veterinarian. The Congress-designated veterinarian will have the final say as to a dog’s suitability to participate in Puppy Alley or Rescue Row.
Participants will be charged $20 per dog, per day.
Interested participants should contact Joanne Taylor, JTaylor@ oqha.com, 614/505-7200 ext 127 to receive an application.
ALL AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE CONGRESS
September 27-October 26, 2025 • Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, Ohio
Important Dates to Remember
September 27 Horse Show Begins and Trade Show Opens
Sept. 30-Oct. 5 Congress Cutting (Bullen Equestrian Center)
October 3
Freestyle Reining presented by dac Vitamins and Minerals
October 4 NRHA Open Reining and All Star Futurity Finals (Level 3 and 4) presented by Friends of Congress Reining and All Star Reining Stakes
October 10 Heroes on Horses presented by Title Sponsor Angela Wade Supporting Sponsors Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition and The Janis Family
October 10 Congress Professional Bull Riding presented by Western Edge
October 15 Intercollegiate and Youth Judging Contest
October 18 Congress Super Sale
October 19 NYATT Competition presented by NSBA Smart Points
October 25 Open Versatility Stakes presented by Gerri Leigh Pratt
Heroes on Horses
The Congress will offer a special event ‘Heroes On Horses’ to honor our service men and women and the horses helping them heal. Riders in PATH Intl. Equine Services for Heroes programs are invited to participate in the All American Quarter Horse Congress ‘Heroes on Horses’ competition. Exhibitors must be disabled veterans or active duty ‘wounded warriors’ who are participating in PATH Intl. Equine Services for
Heroes programs or who have a Department of Veteran Affairs disability rating. The PATH facility will be responsible for verifying the eligibility of riders participating in Equine Services for Heroes programs. Horses do not need to be registered or owned by the rider or facility. For information on guidelines and requirements, please contact Joanne Taylor at jtaylor@oqha. com or 614-505-7200, ext. 127.
National Youth Activity Team Tournament
The All American Quarter Horse Congress hosts the largest National Youth Activity Team Tournament competition in the world, bringing together many youth from state and regional Quarter Horse association across the U.S. and Canada.
Team Requirements
Teams consist of one to 16 members and must be sponsored by a state or regional Quarter Horse Association. Youth associations are not permitted to sponsor teams. Teams must be endorsed by their state affiliate as well.
Teams may participate in the following eight classes: Barrel Racing, Hunt Seat Equitation, Hunter Under Saddler, Ranch Riding, Reining, Showmanship, Western Horsemanship, and
Western Pleasure. A maximum of two team members may compete in any one class.
Only contestants 18 years or younger as of January 1, showing registered Quarter Horses, and sponsored by a state or regionals Quarter Horse association may compete. Individual contestants may compete in up to two classes.
NSBA-Dual Approved
NYATT Hunt Seat Equitation, Hunter Under Saddle, Ranch Riding, Showmanship, Western Horsemanship, and Western Pleasure classes are dual-approved by NSBA. Contact your NYATT advisor for entry information.
Awards NYATT awards will be presented shortly after the conclusion of the last NYATT
class on Sunday, October 19. Awards will be presented to the top 10 teams in Division I and Division II. The top 15 places in each class receive awards and points. For more information, contact Joanne Taylor, JTaylor@ oqha.com, 614/505-7200 ext 127.
PRESIDENT, Gale Davis
Congratulations to OWHA Youth at Fair
VICE PRESIDENTS, Marc Beck, Cinda Bame
SECRETARY, Jeremy Reed
TREASURER, Eric Haudenschield
WEBSITE, www.owha.org
Hello Corral readers! Ohio Western Horse Association (OWHA) hopes you had a great summer with your family and friends, both human and equine!
OWHA held their monthly board meeting on September 11. The board worked on some last minute preparations for their Fall Round Up. We are looking forward to ending our show season on a high note. We wanted to share some celebrations about a couple of our youth. Nine year old Bella Conyers placed first in junior barrels, junior poles, and junior stakes and second in junior keyhole at the 2025 Hardin County Fair on her big buckskin, Stormy (Bella’s late aunt Kar
Kar’s horse). This earned her the title of High Point Junior Contest Horse. Congratulations Bella!
Bella’s little sister, Kalani Conyers, age 7, won the Kiddie Tractor Pull for the third year in a row. Way to go Kalani!
Noah Reed and his horse Lil MS Sure Shot won the 9-13 western and English showmanships, western horsemanship, and western pleasure at the 2025 Hardin County Fair winning them the title of High Point
Junior Western Division. His other horse, Slipped Around, was bestowed the honor of 2025 Super Horse, an award given in honor of Sarah Fackler’s horse, Thunder. Nice job Noah and his hard working mares!
If you are interested in joining OWHA to take advantage of the award opportunities at the annual banquet as well as scholarship opportunities, please reach out to a board member. We would love to have you be a part of OWHA.
DeGraff Stables is proud to welcome Trashy Affair, a 2019 chestnut stallion by the legendary Gunnatrashya and out of Memorable Walla Whiz, to our stallion roster. With proven success in the arena and bloodlines that define reining royalty, he marks a new chapter as our very first western performance sire to stand at stud.
Under the guidance of NRHA Professional Matt Flarida Of Purcell, Oklahoma, Trashy Affair has built an impressive show record with money earnings of over $42,000 and earned the title of 2023 AQHA World Show Level 2 Junior Reining Champion. Matt and Trashy Affair were also:
2023 Lazy E Red Dirt Reining Level 2 Open Derby Champion and Level 4 Top 5
2023 NRHA Derby Level 2 Open Finalist
2023 l00X Reining Classic Stakes Level 2 Open Reserve Champion, Level 3 Top 10
2023 AQHA World Champion - Junior Reining Level 2
2023 AQHA World Show - Level 3 Top 5
Trashy Affair’s sire, Gunnatrashya, is an NRHA Hall of Fame inductee, Open NRHA Futurity Champion, Congress Open Futurity Champion, with lifetime earnings over $233,000, and a producer of over $17.8 Million. While the majority of his offspring have competed in reining, many others have achieved notable success in various disciplines. These include earnings of $589,000 in working cow horse events, more than $655,000 in roping competitions, and over $350,000 in ranch horse contests. Additionally, there have been money-earners in cutting, barrel racing, and halter classes.
Trashy Affair’s dam side is one of proven success as well. His mother, sired by $5.5 Million Sire, Walla Walla Whiz, won over $18,000 herself and has produced close to $80,000 with every foal of show-age winning money so far. Her dam, Memorable Affair, won $118,000, produced over $300,000 and is still going.
Daughters of Walla Walla Whiz have over $4.3 Million in produce earnings, and the “magic cross” has undoubtedly been the “Gunner” bloodlines. The first horse in NRHA history to win over a million dollars (Down Right Amazing) is sired by Colonels Smoking Gun “Gunner” and out of a daughter of Walla Walla Whiz. Five others out of the top ten money-earners out of Walla Walla Whiz dams were sired by either Gunnatrashya or one of his sons.
With his pedigree, performance, and presence, Trashy Affair is destined to carry on the tradition of greatness and help shape the next generation of versatile, competitive reining and western performance horses. We are grateful for the guidance and expertise of Matt, Sarah and his team at Matt Flarida Reining horses for leading DeGraff Stables into a new adventure in the equine industry. It’s been an exciting ride and we can’t wait to see what the future holds .
Trashy Affair will stand the 2026 breeding season at DeGraff Stables, Inc., Ocala, FL.
Ohio High School Rodeo Association
Membership Portal Open for 2025-2026 Season
NATIONAL DIRECTOR, Nikki McCarty
PRESIDENT, Chelsea Schoch
SECRETARY, Holly Rowe
PHONE, 419/651-0111
WEBSITE, www.ohiohighschoolrodeo.org
by Abigail Nisonger
The September Ohio High School Rodeo in Urbana was a success! With new members still joining us, contestants continue to meet new people and make memories of a lifetime, both in and out of the arena. Contestants are only getting more competitive with every rodeo in both the high school and junior high school division! It’s never too late to get started.
All of the Ohio contestants brought the heat to start out the season! In the high school pole bending Jaelee Winkleman and in the junior high Dixie Keim came in smoking to win the first round of the season. In the high school breakaway Blakeleigh
Anderson and in the junior high Elle George came to play in the first round getting them the win for their divisions. And for the high school barrel racing Isla Corzatt and for the junior high Zoe Bloss started off the season with a bang to secure the win for the first round. Lastly, in the high school team roping header Jaelee Winkleman and heeler
Wesley Gardner shared their first win of the season.
With that being said, all the Ohio members are resting up for the next rodeo. We’re always looking forward to seeing everyone at the next rodeo of the season, and meeting all the new members!
If you’re interested in joining the rodeo community, extending your time with the association,
or simply curious about how to sign up, visit our website at https://ohiohighschoolrodeo.org/ or check out our Facebook page: Ohio High School and Junior High Rodeo Association.
The membership portal for the 2025-2026 season opened on July 1, and this rodeo family is always looking to grow!
2025-2026 Student officers: President Abigail Nisonger, Queen Daphne Lanctot, Vice President Emery Scott, and Secretary Jaelee Winkleman.
Our 2025-26 Queen Daphne Lanctot.
Geauga Horse and Pony Association
Feedback and Suggestions Welcome for the 2026 Show Season
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
As we reflect on the 2025 showing season, we want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for making this show season a great one! From the competition to the camaraderie and dedication that defines this association, it truly was a great season.
Thank you for making this season not only possible but enjoyable for all involved. We couldn’t have done it without the wonderful people who are a part of this association.
Your passion, hard work, and commitment to the sport not only made this year successful but also continued to build a strong, vibrant community. Whether you competed, volunteered, or supported behind the scenes, your contributions were invaluable and deeply appreciated.
We hope that we can all carry the memories and lessons of this year forward as we continue to grow in our shared love for horses and the sport of showing.
We’re already looking ahead to the 2026 season, and we’d love to hear from you! Your feedback and suggestions are essential in shaping the future of our events, and we want to ensure that next season is even better than the last. Whether it’s new ideas for classes, improvements to the show experience, or any other thoughts you might have—this is your chance to help make the 2026 season something special
for all of us. We’re eager to hear your insights, so please feel free to share your suggestions by becoming a part of the show committee!
Please join us at our monthly meetings on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Geauga County Fairgrounds. While the weather is nice, we will meet at the pavilion at the East Show Ring. We will be electing new officers and board members at our November meeting. All nominations will need to be made at our October meeting.
A huge congratulations to all of our Youth members who participated at The Great Geauga
County Fair. We are incredibly proud of all of you and the way you represent GHPA. Keep up the great work!
Stay up to date on the current news, events, and show dates within our organization by visiting www.ghpa.us, or following us on Facebook
GHPA thanks Big Dee’s Tack for their generous support of our organization through their Bonus Buck’s program. Likewise, thank you to Schneiders Saddlery for their generous support. We greatly appreciate all that these two wonderful companies provide for our organization.
My Search for Deer Fly Solutions
There is nothing more pleasurable than a cool morning trail ride through the woods, sun streaming through the trees, dew still on the fern leaves and wildlife running around...until—BUZZ!
Pesky deer flies start to attack your horse’s neck, face and ears. Then you have an agitated horse throwing their head around ruining the serene environment you hoped for. This happened to me a few days ago, so I set out to learn more about deer flies and seek the best prevention so my Kentucky Mountain horse riding buddy, Blue’s Clues, can enjoy the ride as much as I do.
FUN FACTS ABOUT DEER FLIES (TABANIDAE)
• Deer flies prefer outdoor environments, are mostly pasture pests and do not frequent barns and paddock areas.
• Deer flies prefer wooded areas, especially near wet soil such as marshes, bogs or streams.
• Since they are attracted to moist areas, deer flies target horses’ faces, mouths, ears and eyes and other areas that collect perspiration.
• Deer flies are aggressive biters, particularly in June and July. And
by Gina Fortunato
sadly, for Blue’s Clues, who is all black with one white sock, they prefer dark colors.
• It is estimated that deer flies cost our industry about $700,000 to $1 million yearly.
HORSE OWNER HACKS
I find the horse community to be a close-knit group, and members are always willing to share what is on their minds…sometimes even when advice is not needed! Querying horse friends around the U.S. using social media I asked them if they had any favorite hacks for preventing deer fly attacks. Here are three of the top recommendations:
• Lucky Braid shampoo. Several horse owners reported this shampoo also helped with tail rubbing and deterred bugs and flies.
• Dragon Fly clips. Deer flies are known to avoid dragon flies, clipping a dragon fly in motion on the top of the bridle may scare away deer flies.
• Bug balls. I’ve seen mixed reviews online for bug balls but a few horse owners say they work well. One provided a DIY approach that may help with the cost: either spray a beach ball black or put it in a black garbage bag (my favorite as that seems easy!), cover it with Tanglefoot and hang it in your pasture or on trails.
One size does not fit all when it comes to horses. Sometimes multiple approaches may work best. In addition to what I’m doing (using a fly mask under the bridle and carrying a horse tail fly whisk, I’m looking forward to trying one (or all) of the above. After all, I want Blue’s Clues to have a buzz-free ride as much as I do. Happy trails!
The suggestions in this article are intended to provide information only based on horse owner experience. If you need scientific data on flies, please visit the AAEP website and download their 2024 External Parasite and Vector Control Guidelines. Here is the section specific to flies: https://aaep.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Flies.pdf
Sources: Illinois Department of Public Health https://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/pcbitingflies.htm and Bug Guide https://bugguide.net/node/view/117
U0925_GFEquine: Insurance products are underwritten by either Independence American Insurance Company (NAIC #26581), or United States Fire Insurance Company (NAIC #21113); please refer to your policy forms to determine the underwriter for your policy. All policies are produced by PTZ Insurance Agency, Ltd, domiciled in Illinois with corporate offices at Scottsdale, AZ (NPN: 5328528) and PTZ Insurance Agency, Ltd, d.b.a. PIA Insurance Agency in California (CA #0E36937).
After 15 or more years Dave Davis is stepping down as the president of the Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros. He and John Truman are the remaining founders of the Vaqueros. Dave has worn many hats as president. He has been a Range Master. He is the person who has dragged the arena, watered it if there was no one else to help. He set up the courses and any other jobs where there was a need. He would use his vacation time to be at the fairgrounds to set up the gates, timer, office, and speakers. On Mondays he took vacation days to clean stalls used for the shoot when we no longer had outside help for that job. He has always
been a stickler for the rules, sometimes making someone unhappy because of it, which has not always made him popular. Dave even competed while doing all these things until the loss of his horse. Whoever takes his place has some big boots to fill. We thank Dave for all the years of hard work and hope he has time for some fun.
Our last shoot for the season was held September 20 and 21.
The winners from the August shoot:
SATURDAY
OVERALL CHAMPION AND OVERALL
COWBOY: George Hampe
RESERVE OVERALL AND RESERVE
COWBOY: Justin Carroll
OVERALL SENIOR COWBOY: Ron Kiko
RES. SR. COWBOY: Ralph Soehnlen
OVERALL SR. LADIES: Colleen Kelly
RESERVE SENIOR LADIES: Cheri Stady
OVERALL LADIES: Stephanie Berry
RESERVE LADIES: Emily Carroll
SHOTGUN: Cheri Stady
CLASS WINNERS: L1 Kylee Kitzmiller, L2 Maria Haefner, L3 Stephanie Berry, L4 Emily Reynolds, L5 Emily Carroll, L6
Carla Rae Spackman, M2 Justin Carroll, L3 Mike Sheets, L4 Austin Spackman, L5
CLASS WINNERS: L1 Dallas Acker, L2 Maria Haefner, L3 Stephanie Berry, L5 Emily Carroll, L6 Carla Rae Spackman, M2 Justin Carroll, M3 Mike Sheets, M4 Austin Spackman, M5 Ralphie Soehnlen, M6 George Hampe, SL4 Cheri Stady, SL5 Colleen Kelly, SM1 Denis Cooper, SM 4 Dwayne Joyner, SM6 Ralph Soehnlen.
Thank you to our sponsors for their continued support: Big Dees Tack, Kiko Meats, Agile Equine Bodywork, Parkside Trailer Sales and Service, Inc., Siracki Realty, Jefferson Milling, Altmeyers Trailer Sale.
in
OVERALL SENIOR COWBOY: Ralph Soehnlen
Sarah Modic Maria Haefner
Justin Carroll
Equicizer Creator Frank Lovato Jr.
Reservation Deadline for Year End Award Banquet November 6
PRESIDENT, Leanne; VICE PRESIDENT (CONTEST), Anna; VICE PRESIDENT (PLEASURE), Samantha; SECRETARY, Francine; TREASURER, Ruth
EMAIL, massillonsaddleclub@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.massillonsaddleclub.org
Hello, everyone! Congratulations to all of the 2025 Massillon Saddle Club (MSC) 4H participants. The cooler fall weather still leaves ample time to schedule more outdoor ride time. October brings to a close the last few show dates for the 2025 MSC show season. The last point show of 2025 is October 5. If you have not yet completed your volunteer hours for year end award eligibility, please complete them no later than October 5. MSC wants to include as many recipients as possible in the year end awards. MSC has chosen some fantastic prizes and would like to be able to provide an award to you. If you cannot attend the last contest show, please contact Leanne or any officer. There are a few
unfinished projects that can be done to complete your volunteer hours for award eligibility. Many of the small projects can be done on days other than show dates. One small project is gathering the rocks that have multiplied in the practice and main arena.
The Buckle Series last show of the season will be a Congress warm up show October 19. This show will not be a BBR sanctioned show or Great Lakes.
Trail program participants, please don’t forget to submit your trail program hours/miles no later than October 5 to Ruth to be considered for year end awards. Year end trail awards will be presented to the top three overall at the 2025 MSC year end awards banquet.
The 2025 year end awards banquet and election of 2026 officers will be held November 20 at Nickajack Farms. The deadline for reservations is November 6. Please see the MSC Facebook page for reservation forms, or, pick up a copy at one of the shows. 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 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!
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 October 29. Please see the MSC Facebook page for additional program details. Many thanks for any returned medallions! Please let us know what events you would like to see in 2026. If you enjoyed the trail program and would like to see it return in 2026 or if you have an idea for a different event, let us know. If you are willing to help make your idea possible, please let us know.
Massillon Saddle Club, Inc is in the process of making some updates to the website and Facebook pages. Please bear with us as the updates are made. If you need a form that you can’t locate, message the Facebook page. Watch the MSC Facebook page for updates on upcoming events, classes, and fundraisers. Until next month, MSC hopes everyone enjoys fall trail rides, time with family and friends, and have amazing rides. May each of your days be filled with happy horse adventures!
~Your Friends with Massillon Saddle Club, Inc.
by Lisa Kiley
It’s hard to find a horse person who doesn’t enjoy talking about their horses. It’s just something people with horses love to do.
If you have horses long enough, there is always a good story to share. On a warm night in Delaware County this September, over 100 horse lovers from across the area came together to do just that. The Delaware County Historical Society created a program presented by Maggie Snyder, society volunteer, called ‘The Horse World in Delaware County—1940s to 2000’. This is just one of the many programs put on by the Delaware County Historical Society throughout the year, but the only one specifically dedicated to horse history in the area. The location was perfect for the event as the home of the Historical Society is in the Barn at Stratford which was constructed in 1848. The barn had once housed draft horses. The original Dutch doors on the exterior of the barn, which is now utilized as event and programming space, calls back to the days when horses hung their heads out those windows looking over the fields where they spent their days working and grazing.
It’s important for the equine community to support local equine events, youth programs, and businesses...
The road has several historic barns with similar construction that remain; a nod to the past in this county that has been shaped by the equine industry in many ways.
Upon arrival guests of the program were welcomed into the venue with beautiful equine artwork from local artists, Patricia Geth, David W. Groff, Meridith Martin, Diane Hodges and Debra Rosario. 4-H projects and exhibits gave guests insight into the different parts of horse history in Delaware County. This included everything from information on different farms in the area to historic costs of horse items and information on the the famous Little Brown Jug known as The Great American Harness Race, which has a rich history in Delaware County marking it’s 80th run this September at the Delaware County Fairgrounds.
The first speaker of the evening was Marilyn Evans Fogle who has been involved with horses in the area for most of her life. She recounted some of her favorite memories of the horse clubs she was part of and later led. Evans Fogle has been a constant supporter of 4-H in Delaware County volunteering and organizing to continually improve the experience for youth showing horses in the county. She shared how she and her husband worked to get an arena for the horses after having shown on grass for many years. In addition to her work supporting youth horse programs, she was also an outrider for The Little Brown Jug for 18 years with her equine partner whom she raised, Silver Tomahawk JR.
Next, Diane Winters, a Delaware native and impressive horsewoman shared the connection that she too had been an outrider for The Little Brown Jug for many years. She shared stories of growing up in this county and the fun times she had with horses and friends over the years. Winters continues to be actively involved in the equine community as owner of All-Win Stables in Delaware, a boarding barn with horses and riders of all disciplines. Winters is the chairman of the All-Horse
Parade which has been taking place every year on the Sunday before the start of the fair for the last 39 years. She works tirelessly to organize the highly anticipated event that is enjoyed by spectators who line the streets in anticipation of seeing this highly popular event each year. In addition to this, she is also a member of the Delaware County Agricultural Society and the Delaware County Fair Board. Pat Cashman, who was also raised in Delaware, was the next
Please
Marilyn Evans Fogle
speaker. He shared how his father became interested in breeding Morgan horses and bringing the great stallion Kingston to Ohio. He even recounted that at one time in his younger years he took out a loan to buy a horse.
Having spent quite a bit of time around the equine community he saw an opportunity to provide a more convenient way for horse owners to get feed for their animals, he opened the first drive-thru feed store in the area. Cashmans Horse Equipment is still a thriving business on US
42 North, just outside of town, where you can get everything you need for your horse from feed to fencing.
The last speaker of the night, Bobby Murphy was slated to talk about his father, famous horse trainer, the late Walter Murphy, but was unable to attend. Fortunately, Tom Moxley, a longtime friend of the family, was in the audience and came up to share Walter’s impressive legacy. Known for his work with Saddlebred Horses, Walter Murphy trained over 50 World Championship horses. He was named Ohio Horseman of the Year twice and he is the first and only African American to be inducted into the Saddlebred Hall of Fame in Lexington, Kentucky. He is also featured in the documentary ‘Out of the Shadows, Bringing to Light Black Horseman in Saddlebred History’
which can be seen on YouTube. The evening ended with some questions from the audience and reminiscing over good times shared with horses in the county. Horses have helped shape the lives of many people in this area, but it is the relationships that have been built through the passion and love of horses that were so evident throughout the night. It’s important for the equine community to support local equine events, youth programs, and businesses if we want to continue the rich legacy of horses in Ohio in the future. For more information on the presenters, artists, and programming, check out the Delaware County Ohio Historical Society on their website or Facebook page. www. delawareohiohistory.org, https:// www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100064826223145
Diane Winters, Pat Cashman, and Marilyn Evans Fogle.
The saddle club board members continue to bring outstanding
shows. I am sure 2026 will bring the same opportunity to all.
The Friday Night Buckle Series is winding down with a show on October 3 and the Finals on October 17. The Open Contest show will wrap up on October 11 with a Fun Show on October 19.
The Pleasure shows finished the season with our biggest show in August.
Thank you to everyone who sponsors, supports, works and promotes the Wayne County Saddle Club.
Trail riding at The Hollow is at its best in the fall. We have well marked trails with levels of
challenge for everyone. Become a member and enjoy everything the saddle club has to offer. Our awards banquet and party will be in January. It’s a great way to warm up, meet your board and eat good food. Run for office if you wish, bid on some raffle baskets and dance the night away. See you there!
Colorado Ranger Horse Association
2023 Youth Season Results
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 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. We present youth awards from the previous show season and end with a rousing auction with all kinds of ‘goods’. Results from 2023 youth season (we did not post them earlier, got behind on logging information. We are so sorry!)
SENIOR HIGH POINT YOUTH: Erin Hicks, New York showing Fit to be Dazzled
SENIOR RESERVE HIGH POINT YOUTH: Abigail Goodrich, New York showing Diamond D Cooper Lane
JUNIOR HIGH POINT YOUTH: Isabella LaCount, New York showing Vision of Money and Dazzled in Chocolate Thanks to all our participants. Awards are being sent to those youth members. Youth earn a point for every horse they place above.
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Blood, Sweat, Tears, and Other Water Losses Water For Horses Part 2
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
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.
Water is essential to life and lack of water will kill a horse faster than lack of any other nutrient.
Monitoring Water Loss (output) and Dehydration
Horses lose water through urine, sweat, evaporative loss, feces, respiration, drool, and lactation (Figure 1.1).
Haley Campbell, MS, Lecturer, Ohio State ATI, Wooster, Ohio
A lack of water availability or palatability can quickly lead to dehydration. A dehydrated horse can have dry or tacky mucous membranes, sunken eyes, poor skin elasticity, slowed capillary refill, and more concentrated urine. Weight loss and fatigue can also be the result of dehydration. For these signs to be evident, significant dehydration has to be present. When a horse is dehydrated, they are at more risk for colic. When taking care of horses observe evidence of water loss and note any changes. For example, evaluate fecal quality and the size of wet spots from urine in stalls. Note how much a horse sweats in response to exercise, trailering, or other stress. Horses that have diarrhea or sweat excessively are more likely to become dehydrated. Horses that have stopped sweating, especially during exercise or stressful situations, may be too dehydrated to sweat.
Abnormal Losses
Clover is a common perennial pasture plant with white clover being most common. Clover plants can become stressed (e.g., continuous grazing, drought, hot/humid conditions, etc.), and a Rhizoctonia fungus can proliferate on the plant leaves. The toxin slaframine that the fungus produces stimulates salivary glands causing horses to drool excessively when consumed on pasture or if present on red clover when baled for hay (Lea, 2015). As long as continuous clean, fresh water is supplied, the drooling does not usually result in clinical dehydration.
Horses with Increased Water Needs Effects of Exercise
Muscle exertion creates heat. Internal temperatures due to exercise in horses have been measured at 41°C (106°F) (Jeffcott and Kohn, 1999). The horse’s body cannot function normally for long periods of time at these increased temperatures, so the horse relies on cooling mechanisms. Blood, which is largely water, is circulated through the body redistributing heat generated by the muscles. Hydrated horses will sweat, which further aids in cooling, particularly by the process of evaporation. Horses can lose great volumes of water from exercise. For example, 18 L (or 9 2-liter soda bottles’ worth) of water has been observed to have been lost from a single horse in one day of eventing competition (Jeffcott and Kohn, 1999).
Water is the most essential, and often overlooked, nutrient in your horse’s diet.
Excessive drinking and urination, known as polyuria polydipsia, is a sign that there is an underlying medical problem. Owners with horses that have these symptoms should consider having them screened for pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). Loose manure after being introduced to pasture is generally normal. However, excessive or prolonged diarrhea can cause life threatening dehydration. Owners who notice excessive drinking, urination, or diarrhea should consult their veterinarian.
Evaluating Dehydration
To evaluate a horse for dehydration, check their capillary refill time, mucous membrane color and moisture, and skin pliability (Greene and Mastellar, 2022). The skin pinch test, which evaluates skin pliability, does vary with age of the horse (Pritchard et al., 2008), so knowing what is normal for your horse can be helpful in evaluating their hydration status.
Drinking After Exercise
It is important to let horses drink after exercise, as that is when the thirst response is greatest due to sodium imbalances and hormonal controls within the body (Fitzsimmons, 1998). We could find no reported cases of stomach rupture in horses due to voluntarily drinking too much. The volume of the equine stomach is approximately 3 to 5 gallons or ~ 18 L (Share et al., 2022). For scale, a typical horse water bucket in the U.S. is 5 gallons. Additionally, liquids leave the stomach quickly (Van Weyenberg et al., 2006) and horses allowed to drink an unlimited amount of water after an endurance test suffered no adverse effects (Butudom et al., 2003).
Drinking Before Exercise
Maintaining access to water before exercise is recommended in most cases. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and reduced athletic performance. However, reduced water weight may be advantageous in very short-term speed events, which is why the use of diuretic medications in racehorses is controversial (Gross et al., 1999).
Lactating Horses
As water is the principal component of milk, having enough to drink is extremely important for milk production. Horses used in dairy
Figure 1.1: Water balance in horses and contributing factors for water input and output. Graphic by Sara L. Mastellar.
The Equine Specialty Hospital provides advanced diagnostic, sports medicine, and surgical services for horses, mules, and donkeys of all breeds and disciplines. Board-certified surgeons provide care by appointment or emergency admission. The hospital is staffed 24 hours a day, allowing continuous monitoring of critically ill patients. You may have your veterinarian call and refer your horse, but a referral is not required for elective or emergency services.
Diagnostic Services
• Lameness diagnosis
• Digital X-Ray
• Digital Ultrasound
• MRI
• Nuclear Scintigraphy
• Videoendoscopy
• Dynamic Endoscopy
• Gastroscopy
• Myelography
Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Center
• Cold Compression Therapy
• Therapeutic Laser
• Shockwave Therapy
• Platelet Rich Plasma
• IRAP
• Stem Cells
Medical Services
• Neonatal & Adult ICU
• Neurologic Evaluations
• Ophthalmic Evaluations
• Respiratory Evaluations
• Perinatal Care for High Risk Pregnancies
Surgical Services
• Laparoscopic Surgery
• Arthroscopic Surgery
• Fracture Repair
• Colic Surgery
• Soft Tissue Surgery
• Laser Surgery
—Uterine Cysts
—Upper Airwave
—Skin Tumors
• Dental/Sinus Surgery
Other Services
• Podiatry Center
• Isolation Facility for contagious diseases
• Fully padded stall with dynamic sling support
Neonatal ICU
Colic Surgery
Arthroscopy
Adult ICU
Sling Support
Digital Ultrasound
Black Swamp Driving Club
Halloween Drive Canceled, Banquet in November
PRESIDENT, Julie Emmons
VICE PRESIDENT, Roger Higgins, Jr. TREASURER/SECRETARY, Susan Murray CORRAL REPORTER, Sharon Hayhurst FACEBOOK, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/121257701223196
Hi everyone, happy autumn! I
Water For Horses
Continued from page 38
settings produce about 12 kg (about 3 gallons) of milk per day during days 30 to 180 of lactation (Miraglia et al., 2020). Lactating horses can consume twice as much as what they drink when not lactating.
Transporting Horses
Trailering horses presents unique problems for providing water. Water buckets can slosh, making for wet and slippery floors. Water dishes that horses
am doing the article for the club again this month. Sharon is still on vacation. It’s a vacation to remember I’m sure.
The events for the Black Swamp Driving Club are coming to a close. Here are the remaining events:
OCTOBER 4: Emmons drive and potluck at noon. The drive is at the Parker Bridge near Upper Sandusky, Ohio. This is a very scenic drive, you don’t want to
miss this event.
OCTOBER 25: The Emmons and Owen’s Halloween drive event has been CANCELED, if you have any questions, please give Julie a call.
NOVEMBER 8: This is the annual banquet, located at the Good Hope Lutheran Church in Arlington, Ohio. Potluck as always, we will start the banquet at 4:30 p.m.
Please be thinking about 2026 events. The new year isn’t that far away. There will be officer positions to fill, and other discussions and decisions to be
made. Members, please plan to attend upcoming meetings to keep up to date on moving forward. We have had several members involved in other activities outside of the club; parades, horse and pony shows, etc. Once we get a list prepared, along with pictures if possible, maybe Sharon can post them in the next issue. It’s great to see members in other activities. This will wrap up this month. If you have questions or concerns, contact any board members. Have a great fall season!
~Roger Higgins Jr.
can fill by pressing a paddle or nozzle are an option, but uncommon. For most horse owners/transporters, stopping every 3 to 6 hours to offer fresh clean water is recommended (Houpt and Wickens, 2014).
Take-Home Message
By understanding how and when horses lose water, owners can take proactive steps to keep them hydrated, healthy, and performing at their best. Stay tuned for part 3 of this series!
Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club
More Information to Come
PRESIDENT, Emily Scott VICE PRESIDENT, Brett Hammersmith SECRETARY, Amy Cluse
TREASURER, Terri Rafeld
EMAIL, paintandplaininfo@yahoo.com
WEBSITE, ashlandpaintandplain.com
by Taylor Wheaton
Please keep an eye out for more
information on our upcoming events: banquet to celebrate the 2025 show season and our annual tack swap!
DISCLAIMER: The Horsemen’s Corral has made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this calendar of events. However, the information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. The Corral does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained herein. Where possible, event contact information is provided. Please “Call before you haul”.
OCTOBER 2025
OCT. 1-5 — The 47th All American Buckskin Horse Congress, Michigan State University Livestock Pavilion, Lansing, MI. FMI: www. facebook.com/bhamshow
OCT. 3-4 — Fast Times Fridays Series Open Horse Show, Madison County Fairgrounds Indoor Arena, 3237 Old Irvine Rd., Richmond, KY. FMI: Ronnie, 859-771-3388
OCT. 3 — Wayne County Saddle Club
Friday Nite Fun Show & Buckle Series, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Leanne Louive, 330-844-4041, waynecountysaddleclub.com
OCT. 3 — OHSRA Haunted Hustle Barrel Race, The Show Arena, 1640 Co. Rd. B, Swanton, OH. FMI: 239-537-0620
OCT. 3-5 — Ohio Paint Horse Club Trail Ride, Van Buren State Park, Van Buren, OH. FMI: 419-701-1854, www.ophc.org
OCT. 3-5 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by Preble County, Hueston Woods State Park, 4 Mile Valley Rd., Morning Sun, OH. FMI: 937-417-4358, prebleohc.com
OCT. 4 — 6th Annual Heart of a Warrior Farm Barn Dance and Silent Auction, 6-9 p.m., 6545 Beecher Rd., Granville, OH. FMI: 614-881-2506, info@heartofawarrior farm.org, www.heartofawarriorfarm.org
OCT. 4 — Rough Riders Open Speed Show, Huron County Fairgrounds, 940 Fair Road, Norwalk, OH. FMI: Cathy, 440-935-5040
OCT. 4 — Fun Show, 10 a.m., 696 Bedford Rd. SE, Brookfield, OH. FMI: brookfieldsaddleclub@yahoo.com
OCT. 4 — Cow Horse Show, 2 p.m., Davis Ranch Training & Event Center, 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: Dave, 812-620-5707
OCT. 4 — Circle X Ranch Open Show, 10 a.m., 818 W. 250 N., Winchester, IN. FMI: 317-868-6011
OCT. 4 — Kentuckiana Ranch Horse Association Show, Shelby County Fairgrounds, 1513 Midland Trail, Shelbyville, KY. FMI: kentuckianaranchhorse.weebly.com
OCT. 4 — Just A Small Town Ranch Fun Show, 10 a.m., 297 Bobb Road, Middleburg, PA. FMI: Becky, 570--765-1610, https:// www.facebook.com/justasmalltownranch
OCT. 4-5 — Flamingo Endurance Ride, Salamonie State Park 9214 Lost Bridge Road W., Andrews, IN. FMI: Maureen Fehrs, 219-879-1964, mfehrs@aol.com, www.oaats.org
OCT. 5 — Massillon Saddle Club Contesting Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
OCT. 5 — Harry Hughes Ride-A-Thon, 9 a.m., 5563 Waterville-Swanton Rd. (State Route 64), Swanton, OH. FMI: Al Staler, 419-826-8532
OCT. 11 — Knox County OHC Poker Run/ Obstacle Challenge Scavenger Hunt, 11 a.m., Thayer Ridge Park, 7700 Thayer Road, Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: 614-296-7893, www.facebook.com/groups/knoxohc
OCT. 11 — Wayne County Saddle Club Open Contest Show, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Jamie Carlisle, 330933-3741, waynecountysaddleclub.com
OCT. 11 — Buckeye Mini Horse, Donkey, Pony & Horse Mixed Auction 8:30 a.m., Wayne County Fairgrounds, 199 Vanover St., Wooster, OH. FMI: Daniel Schrock, 330-763-0905
OCT. 11 — Soup Ride hosted by Perry County OHC, Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area Equine Campground, 3400 SR 78, McConnelsville, OH. FMI: perry@ ohconline.com, https://www.facebook. com/groups/358561904209276/
OCT. 11 — Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: 330-674-6188, www.mthopeauction.com
OCT. 11 — Keystone Saddle Club Halloween Buckle Series Fun Show Extravaganza, 5695 Clay City Dr. SE, Uhrichsville, OH. FMI: Heather, 330-795-6888, https://www. facebook.com/groups/202531196595646
OCT. 11 — LCHS Annual Open Fall Fun Show, Carlisle Reservation Equestrian Center, 13630 Diagonal Rd., LaGrange, OH. FMI: Jennifer, 440-323-5219
OCT. 11 — 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
OCT. 11 — Fall Classic Catalog Horse Sale, Farmers & Ranchers Livestock Commission Company, Inc., Salina, KS. FMI: 785-8250211, www.fandrlive.com
OCT. 11-12 — Fall Festival, Knoop Farm, 2385 St. Rt. 41, Troy, OH. FMI: www. facebook.com/Lexie.Renner
OCT. 11-12 — Premier Mount N Trail Virtual Trail Ride. FMI: www.facebook. com/premiermountntrail
OCT. 11-12 — Oak Leaf Run Distance Endurance Ride, Silver Creek Park, Hamilton, MI. FMI: Barb, 616-460-8041, oakleafrun@gmail.com, www.oaats.org
OCT. 15-18 — The Horseman’s Mission, Holmes County Fairgrounds at Harvest Ridge, 8880 OH-39, Millersburg, OH. FMI: Ray Raber, 330-275-2877, thehorsemansmission@gmail.com, https://thehorsemansmission.com
OCT. 17 — Hoover’s 6th Annual Mule & Draft Horse Colt Sale, 9:30 a.m., Logan County Agricultural Arena, 255 John Paul Rd., Russellville, KY. FMI: Jonathan Hoover, 270-305-2807, www.hooverauctions.com
OCT. 17-18 — Congress Prep Barrel Race, The Show Arena, Swanton, OH. FMI: 419290-3700, theshowarena@yahoo.com
OCT. 17-18 — DBDR Spook Run Endurance Ride, Bill Wilson’s Farm, Henryville, IN. FMI: Barb Hubler, 614-946-4889, barbara. hubler@gmail.com, www.oaats.org
OCT. 17-18 — Old Dominion Fort Valley Endurance Ride, George Washington/ Jefferson National Forest, Ft. Valley, VA. FMI: Diane Connolly, 703-505-7132, dcconnolly24@gmail.com, www.oaats.org
OCT. 17-18 — The Magical World of Dancing Horses Dinner Show presents An Enchanting Halloween and Christmas Spectacle, Beaver Run Equestrian Dance Theatre, 3460 Rd. 410, Punxsy, PA. FMI: 814-246-8221, www.imaginedancinghorses.com
OCT. 17-NOV. 2 — Falling Leaves to Frozen Trees Online Open Horse Show (Fall Has Fallen). FMI: Victoria Hill, 812-878-0216
OCT. 18 — Knox County Horse Park High Point Show, 7500 Thayer Road, Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: 740-627-0096, kchp.mtv. ohio@gmail.com, knoxcountyhorsepark. mypixieset.com
OCT. 18 — Dusty Britches Farmer’s Tan Gymkhana, Miami County Fairgrounds, 650 N. County Rd. 25-A, Troy, OH. FMI: dustybritchesequestrian@gmail.com
OCT. 18 — Great Lakes Area Driving Series Play Day, Maple Crest Farm, Brecksville, OH. FMI: staceygiere@gmail.com
OCT. 18 — Davis Ranch Open Horse Show, 10 a.m., 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: David Davis, 812-6205707, dave@daviddavishorsemanship.com
OCT. 31-NOV. 2 — Breakaway From Cancer Cans and Calves For A Cause, Garwood Arena, 2538 Middleton Rd., Columbiana, OH. FMI: Lora White, 412-956-3211
OCT. 31-NOV.2 — Champions All Breed Association Ranch Show, Champions Center, 4122 Laybourne Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: www.championscenterarena.com
OCT. 31-NOV. 2 — Michigan Paint Horse Club Fall Color Classic, MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI. FMI: Bri Slager, 616-610-9326, www.fallcolorclassicfuturity.com
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: 270-646-8495
NOV. 1-2 — Ohio & Indiana Jr. High & High School Rodeo, Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 South Franklin St., Eaton, OH. FMI: Kaylee, 937-603-2197, https://www. facebook.com/bullenequestriancenter
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. 14-30 — 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. 15-16 — Champions All Breed Association Open Show, Champions Center, 4122 Laybourne Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: www.championscenterarena.com
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: Jonathan Cush, 330447-8500
NOV. 21-23 — 21st Cowboy Christmas Open Horse Show, MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI. FMI: 989-763-3276, cowboychristmas@yahoo.com
For More Equine Events, Visit Our Website www.thehorsemenscorral.com
Built, Not Broken
by Robert Eversole
For generations, the goal of horse training was to get a horse ‘broke.’ Broke to ride. Broke to lead. Broke to behave.
But what if I told you I disagree with the whole premise?
Historically, breaking a horse meant precisely what it sounds like: breaking its will, its spirit, and its sense of self. The goal was submission, and the process was often forceful. The same kind of breaking happens in unhealthy relationships between people: when one partner dominates the other until their voice, preferences, and independence are gradually erased.
It doesn’t always look violent. Often, it’s subtle. It happens in a thousand small moments where someone learns it’s safer to stop speaking up. They become technically present but emotionally gone. That’s exactly what I see at some hitching rails. Long lines of mules or horses, heads hanging low, eyes dull, disengaged from the world
around them. They’ve been ridden hard, handled harder, and trained in a way that silenced their spirit. They do what they’re told, but there’s no curiosity left. No spark. They’ve been shut down in the name of being ‘broke.’ And that’s not what I want from my animals.
I Don’t Want Obedience—I Want Engagement
I want my horses and mules to have life in them. Opinions. Expression. Even a little sass if that’s who they are. I like character in an animal. I want a horse that thinks and responds, not one that performs without awareness.
Strip all that away, and you’re left with a lifeless machine. A horse that says “yes” to everything because he’s learned that saying “no” isn’t allowed. It’s the equine version of a partner who mutters “whatever you want” not because they agree but because their opinions have been ignored for so long they’ve stopped offering them.
The Trouble with Desensitizing
One popular trend in horse training today is desensitization. Now, to be clear, done well, it has a place. A horse needs to feel safe when a tarp flaps in the wind or a plastic bag blows across the trail. But we’ve lost the point. Desensitizing isn’t supposed to mean “make the horse feel nothing.”
Too often, it turns into flooding, overwhelming the horse with stimuli until he shuts down. There’s no room for understanding, just compliance. A trainer waves a flag, rattles a bag, and pushes until there’s no reaction left. And then they call that success.
But a horse that doesn’t react isn’t necessarily calm. He might just be numb. Disconnected. Resigned. He’s not learning. He’s coping.
And that’s not partnership. That’s captivity.
The Thinking Horse is the Safe Horse
If I’m riding in the backcountry, down a shale slope, across a logjammed creek, I don’t want a horse that’s just waiting for the next command. I want one that’s thinking. One that feels the terrain and adjusts. A horse that uses his brain, not just his training.
That kind of thinking doesn’t come from fear or repetition. It comes from confidence, built over time through trust, experience, and a training style that encourages independent thought. It takes patience. It takes relationship.
Like a Good Marriage
Training a horse is not unlike a healthy human partnership. You don’t want a spouse who agrees with you just to avoid conflict. You want someone who contributes. Who feels safe being themselves. Who challenges you when needed and listens when it counts.
That’s not obedience. That’s trust. And that’s what I want from the animals I trust with my life in the wilderness.
Built Through Trust, Not Fear
True horsemanship isn’t about dominance. It’s not about forcing a horse into submission. It’s about communication, not control. I
PRESIDENT, Kelly Chapman
VICE PRESIDENT, Stephanie Tarr
SECRETARY, Justin Miller
TREASURER, Susan Croft
EMAIL, premiermountntrail@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.premiermountntrail.com
by Madison Eshelman
Fall is here, and it’s one of the best times of the year to get out and spend time with our horses. We have had a fantastic summer show season and have seen so much progress with all of our competitors. From new riders trying their first obstacle to
Built, Not Broken
want an animal who chooses to work with me, because he trusts what I’m asking and understands what’s expected.
So, no. I don’t want a ‘broke’ horse. I want a horse that’s been built. Built through quiet
Fall is in the Air
seasoned members challenging themselves on tougher courses, every step has been a reminder of why we love this sport and this community.
As the cooler weather is coming our way, now is a perfect time
to hit the trails and spend some quality time with our equine partners and get some hours in for our RIDE program. If you haven’t joined yet, October is the perfect time to get started. The trails are beautiful this season,
and every time you ride or work with your equine partner, it counts toward your goals. All of the hours will be totaled up at the end of the year, and awards will be given at our banquet.
consistency. Through fair leadership. Through a relationship that rewards curiosity and builds confidence. A horse that’s been allowed to remain himself and has learned to engage with the world instead of shutting it out.
When someone asks if my
BLUE LAKES FARM
October 11
November 22
December 13
January 17
February 7
March 7
April: TBA May: TBA
January 4 February 15 March 15 April: TBA May: TBA Continued from page 46
PLEASURE SHOWS
October 19 November 9 December 7
mules are broke, I smile. “No,” I say. “They’re educated. They’re alive. They’re with me.”
And that’s exactly how I want it.
Robert Eversole is the creator of TrailMeister.com, the world’s largest guide to equine camps
and horse trails. He’s also the author of The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping, available on Amazon. For more articles on trail riding, camp cooking, and equine training, visit his website or follow him on social media.
View From the Cheap Seats
Remember to Look Those Gift Horses in the Mouth
by Sarah Vas
Igotta tell you about a horse named Earl. I have personally dubbed him The Most Forgiving Horse Alive. He should have a bronze statue erected at the Kentucky Horse Park right alongside the looming sculptures of industry legends like Man ‘O War, Secretariat, Bask++, and Supreme Sultan just to name a few. That’s a pretty strong statement about a lesson horse I’d only patted on the nose in passing on my way down the boarding barn aisle to my own pony’s stall.
Earl is long past winning any beauty contests. He’s just your average big, tall chestnut gelding with a wide blaze. He looks to be a Quarter Horse of hunter pleasure intentions but I’ve never asked. His conformation is average, and his fitness level is as expected of a lightly used beginner lesson horse. Earl is a senior by industry standards although he’s a long way from
needing full retirement. But what I can’t miss with my experienced eye is the story that he tells.
Earl’s seen some things. Earl’s got scars. Looking at him, I can’t not see the dirty underbelly of the equine industry smeared across his body. He’s endured tough times before finding his current doting owner, before landing softly in the barn owner’s hands as her best lesson-horse-onloan. Wherever he came from, whatever kind of bullying and beat downs he tolerated have left swaths of scarred skin in all the worst places and thickened tissue where delicate nerves have long been crushed and severed. Earl could be the poster child for ill fitting saddles, pressure sores, girth galls, and harsh bits. He’s got white patches of hair as big as your hand along his whole girth line, both sides of his withers, even across his back where the saddle skirt dug into his hide. The corners of his mouth are
fat, fleshy, and pale like lard from repeated injury, thanks to abusive hands and sharp bits held down by gadgets and ties. The worst of it could be missed by the inexperienced bystander. Earl is missing the front of his tongue. Completely gone, severed off at the bars of the jaw forward. This is reason enough why nobody here at this boarding barn ever complains about his feed-dunking, grain-dribbling, hay-wasting stall habits. Those aren’t his fault.
Based on the extent of injuries he has sustained by the hands of humans, Earl. Should. Hate. Everyone. But he doesn’t. He just…doesn’t. He’s the most pleasant gentleman of a horse on the ground and under saddle. He’s the epitome of reliability and adaptability. He’s the babysitter and tolerant pasture companion even as he’s being harassed by a studly weanling or sneered at by a cranky mare. He gets along with everybody, horse and human alike. He never complains, never hesitates, never pauses to express any self-serving opinions. Now, don’t get me wrong. He’s not shut down. He’s not just going along to get along. He’s not existing in learned helplessness as a downtrodden empty shell in an overworked lesson string. He still teaches the kids to use their legs and steer with sensibility despite his obvious history. He’s just…nice. Pleasant. Forgiving. Patient. And here, now, Earl wants for nothing and gets exceptional care and attention. He’s Mr. Lucky.
But recently, it was discovered that he was suffering silently from a disease I nor anyone else at the barn had ever heard of before. Apparently, some horses can develop an odd self-destructive dental disease whereby the teeth begin to decay from the inside out and the body’s response is to essentially ‘cement over’ the damaged enamel and loosening teeth. Because most of us don’t closely examine our horses’ teeth every day, this syndrome isn’t usually apparent until it’s visually very advanced. It’s called EOTRH or Equine Odontotastic Teeth Resorption and Hypercementosis. Ironic that it’s such a mouthful, right!? Here’s a link to an article that
I felt explained it very well for the average horse owner, complete with photos but beware. They’re kind of gross. https://foundationequine.com/ blog/2014/those-arent-old-horseteeth
Most horses are in considerable pain by the time it’s evident what’s happening. Not Earl Stoic. Affable. The only indication caught by the attentive barn owner was that he started hesitating to eat from hay bags. Understandable considering how painful his infected gums and rotten front teeth had become in such a short time as he’d had his spring health exams and his teeth appeared normal in April. This illustrates again how high Earl’s pain tolerance must be. The surgeons said most horses would have been violently unmanageable to ride, off their feed completely, and showing weight loss with the extent of damage shown in Earl’s front teeth.
Earl was quickly scheduled for surgical tooth extraction. He had all of his front teeth removed as well as his canines. He spent the night at the clinic and was home the next afternoon. No questions, no delays, his whole village of people made it happen and shared the aftercare chores so his mouth could heal. Then it was lots of oral flushing and careful food reintroduction. The surgeons cautioned that Earl may get ‘spunky’ as he most definitely would be feeling better now that the source of pain was gone. So far, nobody’s reported any foolish behavior on his part. He’s just Earl, like nothing’s changed. Oh, and even though his gums
Western Dressage
The Harmonious Partnership: Building Confidence and Connection Through Western Dressage
by Kelley Bitter
Western dressage is more than just a competitive discipline; it is a systematic approach to horsemanship that marries the classical principles of dressage with the heritage of the western horse. This unique fusion offers a clear, progressive path for riders of all backgrounds to develop a deeper partnership with their equine athletes. By focusing on correct biomechanics, subtle communication, and mutual trust, western dressage provides the tools to build a more confident, supple, and responsive horse, while simultaneously refining the rider’s balance, seat, and aids. This article explores the profound benefits of this discipline, offering practical exercises and insights to help you and your horse unlock a new level of harmony and performance.
FOSTERING A DEEPER CONNECTION THROUGH COMMUNICATION
At the heart of western dressage is the pursuit of a silent, effortless dialogue between horse and rider. The discipline methodically teaches riders to move away from heavy-handed signals and toward a refined system of communication based on light aids and a balanced seat. This shift from command to conversation is where true partnership begins. The core principle is to ask quietly first. Instead of relying on strong rein pressure to direct your horse, you learn to initiate turns and transitions primarily with your seat and weight. For example, to ask for a right turn, you first think ‘right,’ slightly weighting your right seat bone and turning your core in the direction of the turn.
Your legs remain soft against the horse’s sides, and the reins simply follow the movement, maintaining light, consistent contact. The horse learns to feel these subtle shifts in your center of gravity and responds accordingly. This creates a horse that is listening to your body, not just reacting to rein pressure.
This refined communication builds immense trust. The horse learns that your aids will be clear, consistent, and fair, reducing confusion and anxiety. A horse that understands what is being asked of it is a more willing and confident partner, ready to tackle new challenges without resistance.
BUILDING RIDER AND HORSE CONFIDENCE: PRACTICAL EXERCISES
Confidence is not a given; it is built through a series of successful experiences. Western dressage provides a structured framework of progressive exercises that allows both horse and rider to achieve small victories, which accumulate into a strong foundation of self-assurance.
Rider Confidence Tip: The Independent Seat: A rider’s confidence is directly linked to their balance and stability in the saddle. An independent seat—where your hands, legs, and upper body can move independently of one another—is crucial.
• Exercise: No-Stirrup Work at the Walk. In a safe, enclosed arena on a reliable horse, drop your stirrups and let your legs hang long and heavy around the horse’s barrel. Focus on keeping your seat bones centered and your core engaged as you walk. Practice halting and making large, gentle turns. This exercise forces you to rely on your core for stability rather than your stirrups, dramatically improving your balance and deepening your seat. As you become more comfortable, you can add in work on the longe line to focus solely on your position without needing to steer.
Horse Confidence Tip: The Power of Patterns: Horses are creatures of habit and thrive on predictability. The patterns and tests in western dressage provide a clear structure that helps a horse understand its job, which is a powerful confidence builder. Anxious or green horses, in particular, benefit from knowing what comes next.
• Exercise: The 20-Meter Circle. A perfectly round and balanced 20-meter circle is a foundational exercise with immense benefits. It teaches the horse to bend evenly through its body, step under itself with its inside hind leg, and maintain a consistent rhythm. Start at the walk, focusing on using your inside leg at the girth to ask for the bend and your outside leg slightly behind the girth to prevent the haunches from swinging out. Your outside rein supports the bend and controls the pace. By repeating this simple pattern correctly, the horse learns to balance itself and listen to your guiding aids. This success builds its confidence to tackle more complex movements.
The Physical Benefits: Developing an Equine Athlete: The gymnastic exercises inherent in western dressage are designed to develop a horse’s body symmetrically, improving its suppleness, strength, and longevity. Correct work develops the ‘ring of muscles,’ which includes the abdominals, back, and hindquarters, allowing the horse to carry itself and the rider with lightness and grace.
Enhancing Suppleness and Engagement: Suppleness is the ability of the horse to bend smoothly and evenly in both directions without resistance. This is a cornerstone of western dressage and is crucial for soundness and performance.
• Physical Effect: Exercises like serpentines, leg yields, and shoulder-fore encourage the horse to stretch and release tension in its muscles. For example, a leg yield, where the horse moves forward and sideways simultaneously, requires it to cross its inside legs over its outside legs. This movement stretches the muscles along the side
Knox County Horse Park
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 the month at the Horse Park Shelter during summer.
PARADES
The Knox County Horse Park rode in the Fredericktown Tomato Show Parade and the
Western Dressage
Poker Run, Halloween Show
Delaware All Horse Parade. Following the All Horse Parade the group enjoyed a potluck. Natalie Kulman carried the KCHP Flag for the Tomato Show and the Parade All Horse Parade. John Wenger carried the American Flag for the All Horse Parade. The campout after the Tomato show parade was enjoyed by members and friends.
Our current schedule for the balance of this year is as follows. The fun shows start at 9:30 a.m; with the showmanship classes first and contesting to start at 1 p.m.
OCTOBER 11: Poker Run: supporting breast cancer awareness; starts 10 a.m. with
(continued)
of the horse’s body and encourages the engagement of the inside hind leg, a critical step toward collection. Over time, these exercises build a horse that is equally flexible on both sides, reducing the risk of strain injuries caused by asymmetrical movement.
Building Topline and Core Strength: A strong topline and engaged core are essential for a horse to carry a rider correctly and perform athletic movements. Western dressage focuses on exercises that encourage the horse to lift its back and engage its abdominal muscles.
• Physical Effect: Transitions are a powerful tool for building strength. Frequent and well-ridden transitions between gaits (e.g., walk-trot-walk or trot-halt-trot) act like interval training for the horse. To execute a balanced upward or downward transition, the horse must engage its hindquarters and lift its back, which strengthens the muscles of the topline and abdomen. For instance, in a downward transition from trot to walk, the goal is for the horse to step deeply under its body with its hind legs and shorten its frame, rather than just falling onto its forehand. This action builds the carrying power of the hind end, leading to improved balance, self-carriage, and a more comfortable ride.
A PATH FOR EVERY RIDER
One of the most encouraging aspects of western dressage is its inclusivity. It welcomes all breeds of horses—from stock types to gaited horses and draft crosses—and riders of every skill level. The judging system prioritizes the quality of training, the harmony of the partnership, and the correctness of the horse’s way of going, not a particular breed standard.
This creates a supportive environment where the focus is on personal progress. The structured levels, from Introductory to Level 5, provide clear, achievable goals. Whether you are a beginner aiming to master a 20-meter circle or an advanced rider working on a half-pass, western dressage offers a roadmap for continuous improvement. It provides the theory, the exercises, and the community to help you cultivate a stronger, healthier, and more harmonious partnership with the horse you have today.
At Eagles Nest Equestrian Center, in Ravenna, Ohio, we are committed to supporting you and your horse on your western dressage journey. We offer a variety of training programs and lessons designed to help you advance your skills, strengthen your partnership, and reach new goals together.
Stay tuned for our new show team application, which will be available soon on our Facebook page, as well as updates on upcoming events and clinics. We invite you to join our community and take your next steps in western dressage with us.
last entry out by 11.30 a.m. and all horses back by 1:30 p.m. Following the poker run there will be several fun show classes.
OCTOBER 18: Last point show of the season.
NOVEMBER 1: Halloween show.
Mark your calendars, come and join us for some fun! The cookshack will be open. We would like to thank the following sponsors for the 2025 fun show season: Danville Harness and Shoe, Two Acre Farm and Feed Supply, Strong Land Maintenance, Cosby Heating and Cooling, Travis and Sue Ross, Scarlet Acres, Red Maple Farm, Healthy
Natalie Kulman carried our flag in the Fredericktown Tomato Show parade and the Delaware All Horse Parade.
Center Massage, Therapy andAcupuncture, Sims Sanitation and Lowe’s.
Eagles Nest Equestrian has open lesson times for both private and group sessions! Take the next step in your training journey today. Message us at eaglesnestequestrian@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page: Eagles Nest Equestrian Performance.
The Cowboy Perseverance Ranch
It Could Have Been Worse
by Rob and Tanya Corzatt
Everybody has those moments when they start to feel like the patriarch Job. Unfortunate events just seem to happen and then happen again in a short time span that makes you feel a bit overwhelmed. Job lost all of his family except for his wife. He lost all of his workers, servants and livestock. Job’s wife got so frustrated with all that happened that she told Job to just curse God and die. Job’s friends even started to pile on. But if you know your Bible, you know that Job did exactly the opposite. He continued to praise God and have faith that all was according to His divine plan. For us, there were a few ‘events’ during the months of July and August that seemed somewhat like Job type moments to us. But, I am not focusing on the bad parts of these events, I want to shine the light on the good things that happened during them. At the beginning of July, Tanya took three of our horses and a couple of our lesson students to
a Southeast Ohio Horse Show Organization show not too far from our home. I did not go, and I will explain the reason why later. Anyway, I was on my way home from picking up some horse feed when she called to tell me the truck had broken down on the way to the show. I ran home, unloaded the car and then headed over to where the truck was sitting. You could see the fairgrounds from where the truck stopped. When I got there, our trailer and horses had already been picked up by some other friends that were at the show and ran over to help us out. The families that were following her had unhitched the truck, pushed it up and away from the trailer and then helped get all the horses and tack taken care of. All I had to do was sit and wait for the tow truck and also wonder how much it was going to cost to get our truck fixed. I noticed that the undercarriage and rear bumper of the truck were coated with transmission fluid. I remember sitting there and praying that
it was just a major leak in one of the lines and that the truck didn’t have time to run long or far enough to really damage the transmission. Our son and daughter-in-law were able to pick up T and the horses and get everyone home safely. That whole affair could have been much worse. We could have been much farther from home with none of our friends available to come to our assistance. We also could have broken down on a major highway in heavy traffic with three horses in the trailer. Instead, it happened about 15 miles from home on a country road with limited traffic. Despite the temporary loss of the truck, we were still so thankful that no one, including the horses, was injured and that we were all able to get home safely. It turned out that it was just a massive leak from the transmission coolant lines and a relatively easy, but still a bit pricy, fix. At least we were not replacing the transmission. To add a little insult to injury, I stopped at a local pharmacy on my way home from picking up the truck. I picked up my prescription and went out to the truck only to find out that the starter had decided to give up the ghost. Again, it could have been worse. I was only 15 minutes from home and T was able to pick me up. All told, we were without the truck for almost the entire month of July. Fortunately, our son was able to haul horses for us if necessary and T’s dad let us borrow his old truck to get around. That was a blessing as well, which I will explain in greater detail now.
In 2024, x-rays showed that I had ‘mild’ degenerative arthritis in both hips. Well, mild blew up to ‘advanced’ pretty quickly. The mud or ice of early 2025 did everything it could to cripple me. My left hip began to ache all the time. I began physical therapy in March but did not see any progress or relief. By June, I could not stand long enough to get through the three worship songs on Sunday mornings at church. I could not bear much weight on my left side, and my right side was bearing the brunt of me getting around. I could still walk and put some weight on my left leg but not without using crutches. I had an MRI done in early July and found out that I had avascular necrosis and total
femoral head collapse on my left leg. Basically, loss of blood flow caused the deterioration of the ball of my femur. There was no cartilage in the hip joint, and it was bone on bone. So, the main reason I was not with T the day the truck broke down was that I didn’t feel like going anywhere and having to sit or stand around for any length of time. The reason I was glad to have the use of my father-in-law’s old truck was because it was extremely painful for me to get in and out of our car while we were waiting for our truck to be repaired.
The day after the MRI, July 11, I got a call from the referred orthopedic surgeon’s office to schedule a consultation. They had no openings at any of their offices until August 13. I got off the phone thinking that I wasn’t sure if I could handle waiting that long. I was told that I could check back to see if there had been any cancellations, so I called them the following Monday. I was originally told there were no changes. T had already been praying that something would become available, and I was praying as soon as I made that call. Twenty minutes later, I got a call back that a cancellation had freed up a time slot for the following week! My immediate response was Praise the Lord and Hallelujah, followed by me asking which office and what time! A wait of over a month had been reduced to just over a week and a half.
We met the surgeon on July 22. He confirmed what we already expected, hip replacement surgery for the left hip. He also said that the right hip would be a future candidate as well due to the advanced arthritis. Due to insurance considerations, we were originally told that the earliest we could get in for
Tanya and Rob Corzatt
PRESIDENT, Dwayne Joyner
VICE PRESIDENT, Tony Ruper
SECRETARY, Kelsey Gibson
TREASURER, Mark Maxwell
EMAIL, northernohiooutlawsinfo@ gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.nooutlaws.com
By the time you read this we will be going into our last shoot of the season on September 2726. We are now gearing up for the elections of new officers for the 2026 season. Northern Ohio Outlaws (NOO) members be on the look out for your ballots.
We would like to thank all of our balloon setters for making the shoots run smoother: North Canton 4H, Pegasus Farms, Barvados 4H, Papa and Barn Buddies, Girl Scout Troop 2227, Tom Talient’s group, Weaver’s Amish Boys, County Line Clovers 4H, Richland County Junior Equestrians, County Critters 4H, Sugar Creek 4H, Trail Blazers Summit County, Ashland Crestview boys basketball, The Ellington Family,
Thank You to Balloon Setters
Hartville Showstoppers 4H.
Without you we could not have had the quick balloon changes making for a smooth transition between riders. A special thank you to Bill Hummell from RE/ MAX Realty for providing water for all the balloon setters.
We are wishing everyone who headed out to Easterns safe travels and the best of luck. “Praise The Horse and Pass The Ammunition”.
Once again we would like to thank our sponsors this year for all your support: Kiko Meats, Custom Conchos and Tack,
Centerra Co-Op, John’s Custom Embroidery and Screen-printing, 3-C Horsemanship School, JMF Photos, Pronghorn Custom Leather, Ruggles Arena, Saltwell Western Store, CW Impressions Graphic Designs, Freedom Rein Equine Massage Therapy, Furbay Electric Supply Company,
Kenworth of Ashland, Triple Crown Nutrition, CJ’s Mobile Trailer and Truck Repair, John Roach Horse Shoeing, Leather and Bold, Red Star Veterinary Clinic, Straight A’s, Ranchcity. com, A Stylish Landscaping, Vaughan Insurance.
The Cowboy Perseverance Ranch
Continued from page 54
the surgery was September 11. Knowing the pain I was in, T made a comment that the delay just made her sick. Our surgeon’s secretary said she needed to ask our surgeon a question and left us at her desk. I turned to say something to T, but she was already praying. Less than a couple minutes later, the secretary came back and asked if August 14 would work for us! We obviously said we would make it work! So, after a lot of prayer, my surgery date ended up being only one day after the original date of my consultation.
As I write this in early September, I am about three and a half weeks post-surgery and feel pretty good. In fact, my left leg feels better than my right one. That being the case, we went ahead and scheduled replacement of my right hip in December. My hips have made many things I routinely do pretty uncomfortable. I have not been on a horse since last October when we were on a vacation trail ride out in Wyoming. And it will be several more months before I am able to do so. Some might think getting out of stacking hay is a blessing, but it really bothers me that I have to let others take care of that for now. But again, our barn family is incredible. They have babied me for a few months now and then overwhelmed us
with meals for those first couple weeks after my surgery. I am already putting in requests for the upcoming surgery (Nicole, don’t forget the mashed potatoes next time!).
There were other events that happened during that same time frame that made all of us here at the ranch almost begin to question God’s plan for us. But instead, we focused on all that He had already done and continues to do for us. We are blessed to have our farm, our horses, our business and our wonderful barn family. We thank God for taking care of us when things truly could have been worse. Remember 1Thessolonians 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”. God bless you all.
The Corzatt family owns and operates the Cowboy Perseverance Ranch (CPR) in Marengo, Ohio. CPR is a faith based operation and our mission is to build a strong foundation and relationship with our training horses and students. We are blessed to be able to provide western horsemanship lessons infused with biblical scripture to students of all ages. One student has described her time here as “CPR for the soul!” Visit our website at www.cpranch. wixsite.com/home or follow us on Facebook.
Small arena balloon setters in June.
Setting balloons.
Mid Ohio Dressage Association
East Meets West at Brave Horse
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
The weather was perfect. Sunny days and chilly mornings. Classical and western dressage riders gathered to compete in the annual Mid Ohio Dressage Association (MODA) East Meets West show. A weekend of two rings running and even driven dressage was contested. The scenery was lovely with shiny horses and well-turned riders and drivers enjoying the beautiful Brave Horse grounds. All the hard work the show managers and volunteers put into the show shined through in the fun
contests, organized rings and nice prizes. The judges, Cathy Jacob (L), Fatima Pawlenki-Kranz (WD R) and Karen Winn (R) had many nice rides and drives to enjoy and comment on. Complete results can be found on showsecretary. com and many lovely photos are on the Mid-Ohio Dressage Association Facebook page.
View From the Cheap Seats
Continued from page 50
will firm up and he’ll adapt just fine, he now just sucks the green off the grass with pinched lips like a toothless Grandma cleaning honey off her teaspoon.
Oh, Earl. Dear Earl. I pause a lot longer at his stall to scratch his forehead and stroke his neck. One day, when I am the Queen of Everything, his monument will be my highest priority. Decades from now, historians will verify the legend of Earl the Most Forgiving Horse Alive, and riding instructors will quietly pray to him for guidance and patience
when their own stubborn lesson flunkies buck off another wobbly beginner. Oh, Earl. Dear Earl…
Sarah Vas, a second-generation horse woman, writes about her decades of adventure and mayhem in the equine industry. Her experience encompasses multiple breeds and disciplines. A humble storyteller and educator at heart, her Cheap Seats column is often infused with the spirit of her two favorite philosophies. Laughter is the Breath of Life and Poverty is the Real Mother of Invention.
A closely contested team tournament with teams of two to three riders or drivers were awarded lovely rosettes to the top six teams. Taking the top spot was Sarah Werzinske (71.670 percent) and Kaylee Gingerich (70.190 percent) while the reserve champion team was Team Dunit with Lorna Nagel (66.960 percent), Karen Johnson (74.440 percent) and Dana Hadley (63.650 percent). Congratulations to all the teams! Riders also had fun with egg and spoon, beverage balance, snail race and showmanship. Competitors with registered Quarter Horses earned AQHA points in both the western and classic dressage as this show was an AQHA special event. This was the final prep for some of the western riders heading to the WDAA World Championship Show held September 16-20 in Guthrie, Okla., at the Lazy E Arena. Many of our classical riders were also putting final preparations into their rides as they head to regional finals and the national dressage finals being
held at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio, October 30-November 2. East Meets West concluded the MODA hosted show season. What a successful season all members should be proud to have been a part. The banquet with year end awards will be here sooner than later so please turn in all rotating awards earned in 2024 so they can be presented to the 2025 winners. Year end awards will not be tabulated without the return of any rotating trophies.
The powerful connection between rider and horse inspires countless emotions from peace to pure adrenaline. Enjoy your journey together with your horse.
TREASURER Margaret Hite 740/407-6986 treasurer@ohconline.com
Greetings From Your President
The fall season is my preferred time of year to get in the saddle and ride because flies and bugs are not as bad, and the humidity has dropped to a level where horse and rider can enjoy their respective discipline of riding without all the heat! Soak it all in since we know what comes next! Brr!
As you revel in the cooler temperatures, please remember the many opportunities Ohio offers to equestrians. The Ohio Horseman’s Council, with its devoted, dedicated volunteers, provides a wide range of exciting
County Lines
AUGLAIZE
Welcome back to Auglaize County where we will be hitting it off with our equine queen, Harley Mertz! She participated in the Bremenfest parade in New Bremen and this was a momentous event. It was the first time in years that any horses were included in the parade and the kids loved it. Nora MacWhinney and Olivia Herron, the runners-up, followed along with our honorary equine king, Gunnar Smith, and other participants. However, the equine world is so much more than just winning trophies and placing. It is a community. Our junior ambassador and current equine princess, Cece Nagel, is a great example of this. She has both her grandparents and aunt to help her. This beautiful family affair builds stronger bonds in both her family and riding. It’s an amazing support group that the Nagels have. I wish them all the luck in their future endeavors. In the following months, we will be further winding down as the air cools and winter comes peeking around the corner. We will be participating in the Octoberfest parade on October 5, and an
activities for all ages, disciplines, and breeds of equine. Without these volunteers, we wouldn’t have the freedom to camp, ride trails, compete, or enjoy the company of our equine friends. If you’re not yet a member of this Ohio-dedicated organization, we would like to encourage you to consider joining. October 1 marks the start of the 2026 membership application period. Membership is a modest investment in Ohio’s equestrian community. As a member, you’ll have access to a supportive community, exclusive events, and equine excess liability
PRESIDENT Mary Alice Kuhn 330/413-6589 president@ohconline.com
insurance. The membership fee is just $25 for an individual, $35 for a family, and $40 for an associate member, and it stays with the Ohio Horseman’s Council. Visit ohconline.com, explore the various membership options under the ‘FAQs’, and choose the one that best suits your needs. While there, you can join or renew online.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting to ride, prefer English or western, or own a Quarter Horse, mule, or no equine, you are welcome. The Ohio Horseman’s Council supports
OHC meeting will be held on November 8 and on December 6, we will also be participating in the Hometown Holiday Parade. Any further information
can be found on our Facebook page, Auglaize County Ohio Horseman’s Council Inc. I hope you all have a wonderful rest of your fall season!
~Veronica Mertz
CLERMONT
Greetings from Clermont County. As fall is in the air, we are so thankful we are finally getting some decent riding weather! Hopefully everyone got in a good hay crop this year.
Our August camp and ride was awesome as usual. Twelve rigs camped and quite a few came in for day rides Saturday and
VICE PRESIDENT Nancy Strayer 740/694-1007 vicepresident@ohconline.com
OHC COUNTY LINES EDITOR Kirstie Seeger 937/974-3345 countylineeditor@ohconline.com
everyone who shares a passion for these beautiful animals, loves the great outdoors, and wants to improve the opportunities for Ohio equestrians.
Your participation as a member is crucial to our mission of making Ohio a better place for equestrians. ‘Make Ohio Better, Four Hooves at a Time’ and join the Ohio Horseman’s Council before the fall season is gone and the Brr weather comes next.
~Mary Alice Kuhn
Sunday. Dinner was potluck and if you walked away hungry, it was your own fault. Clermont County knows how to ride and eat.
Three of our members, Tim, Bev, and myself attended Fairfield County state ride at Scioto Trails. A huge thank you to Fairfield County for their hospitality, meals, door prizes, and silent auction items. Fairfield County sure does know how to put on a state ride.
I am pleased to inform you that by the time this article arrives in the Corral in October, the repair work on the Blue Trail, covering 1.2 miles, will be complete. This significant project was carried out with East Fork State Park in collaboration with the dedicated volunteers from OHC Clermont County. Heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who contributed their time, effort, and equipment to make this project a reality. The Blue Trail has been in urgent need of repair for several years, and we are excited to announce that the trail from Loop A to the trailhead at the Tim Applegate Horseman Area is now fully usable once again.
Our next camp and ride is October 10-12. Camping is primitive, so generators are
Cece Nagel with her grandparents, Tracey and Ron Kantner.
Equine queen, Harley Mertz, riding in Bremenfest parade.
Cece Nagel with her aunt, Madi Kantner.
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welcome. Water will be provided for horses. Watch our Facebook page for updates for dinner plans. Come out and enjoy the beautiful trails of East Fork State Park. Until November, ~LaWana Bogard
CLINTON
Hello fellow horsemen and women. We had a fantastic month with some early beautiful fall weather, perfect for riding and camping! Our Labor Day weekend campout was a great success with a strong turnout and lots of fun. Ride highlights include the Saturday morning ride. We hit the trails early to make it back in time for the Ohio State game, and they won! Trail updates include the trail down to the lake has been widened and now includes a new looped trail that connects back to Moonlight Vista, absolutely stunning! We also rode Farmers Trace and Cemetery Circle, all in great shape.
Special thanks to Amanda and John Snell for filling a dangerous hole on Cemetery Circle; it could’ve been a leg breaker!
Club Dinner: The club provided a delicious dinner of Philly steaks and fries, thank you to everyone who cooked and brought side dishes. We truly have an awesome group of folks to ride and camp with!
Ground Bee Alert! It’s that time of year, ground hornets are active! Riders encountered them on Farmers Trace (entering from the left, about ¼ mile in). Rangers have sprayed and marked the area, but please stay alert. Here are some bee safety tips for riders:
• Trust your horse’s instincts, if they change gait or sniff the ground, pay attention.
• Carry bee spray within easy reach and leave the area quickly if bees are encountered.
• Know who has allergies and carry EpiPens on your person, not in saddlebags.
• Drop a marker (like a water bottle) to help land managers locate nests.
• Know your trail and carry a map in case you get separated.
• Keep Benadryl in your saddlebag and trailer.
• Shower after riding to remove venom; use hydrocortisone and Tylenol if stung.
• Wear light colors, yellow jackets are more aggressive toward dark colors (and horseflies too!).
• Best defense? Run and run fast!
Stay Connected. We’ll continue posting upcoming rides and campouts on our Facebook page. Come join us!
And remember, take a kid riding and see the future. Happy trails, ~Sue Lamb
CUYAHOGA
We head into October with great anticipation that we will see many new and returning members joining OHC. This wonderful organization is open to anyone who has a love of horses. There are chapters in most all counties in Ohio, but you do not need to live in the county you join. Or you can choose to be an At Large OHC member not affiliated with any particular chapter. The benefits are many, meet new friends, ride new trails, find people who will encourage you in your equine journey. Liability insurance that is very cost friendly to members and a wealth of programs, potlucks, educational, and just plain fun times. Look for more information at www.ohconline.com. We are waiting to welcome you.
Fall riding is a wonderful time of year. With cooler weather we hit the trails to enjoy the beautiful fall colors atop a steed that has a new attitude enjoying the cooler weather right along with us. Always carry your cell phone with emergency contact information, the person you will call if you end up needing a trailer to get you home for some unexpected reason and the veterinarian you may need to contact. This phone should be carried on your person, not in a saddle pack that may take off with a misbehaved horse. Also put your ID information in your pocket and on your horse including your cell phone number and perhaps trailer plate. Never hurts to be over prepared, that way nothing bad happens.
If you happen to be in the awful position of wondering if it may be time to put a beloved horse that is having serious health issues, down, remember it is better one day early when it may be a good
day rather than one minute late and suffering. It will help your horse but it will break your heart. With the colder weather to come, joints ache, the old have a hard time keeping warm and comfortable, the ill suffer even more. A warm sunny day may be the day to bring unending relief to the one who has carried you loyally for many miles. I had to do just that last month and it was peaceful, he was eating grass, yet he was in great pain that we could not relieve. We had tried everything, and it was the final gift I could give him. Time and knowing it was the best I could do for him will help heal the hurt. We horse lovers are as soft as marshmallows and as tough as nails and we have learned to go on to love again and again. It might mean a new horse in the barn, helping with horse rescue and rehab, volunteering at a therapeutic riding center, but with the help of especially our OHC friends we go on.
~Penny Passalacqua
DELAWARE
Hello from your friends in the Delaware chapter. Welcome October, one of the best horseback riding months of the year in my opinion. Many of our Delaware members have been taking advantage of the opportunity to get outdoors and explore our beautiful bridle trails at Alum Creek State Park. As a result of all the hard work performed by our dedicated trail maintenance volunteers, led by Bobbi Arters, our bridle trails, totaling close to 40 miles, look their very best. The trails are ready to provide visitors with some of the most scenic, well-maintained, and varied trails in the state. When saddling up to ride any of the trails in Ohio, including our Alum Creek bridle trails and you are not an OHC member, would you consider joining us? October marks the start of our Ohio Horseman’s Council 2026 membership drive. Exciting news this year: all new Delaware primary members will receive a $25 gift card to Equus Now!, an equine tack and apparel shop located in Delaware County, courtesy of owner and fellow member, Rosemary Shaeck. We are most appreciative to Rose for her thoughtful and generous gift to encourage new members! All new members will also receive a courtesy Delaware Chapter T-shirt.
Blue Trail before.
Work in progress.
Blue Trail work.
Our guest Linda Armstrong, a former member of Preble CT, who joined us for a night.
Vicki Bornhorst, Amanda Snell, Abby Fox, and Sue Lamb at Buflod’s Lookout off Moonlight Vista.
Sue Lamb and Vicki Bornhorst at the lake.
County Lines
At the time this article was written, our annual Autumn-atAlum Potluck and Trail Ride had not yet occurred. This event, scheduled for September 5-7, is our chapter’s main fundraiser with proceeds from Friday’s festivities, including a live auction, silent auction, and 50/50 raffle going towards future trail maintenance projects at Alum Creek bridle trails. We would like to take this opportunity to thank several of our member and business sponsors (current as of September 1) for their auction item(s) contributions: Cashmans, Champion Feed and Pet Supply, Equus Now, Henmick Farm and Brewery, Ohio State Parks, Dan Chambers, and Tonya Corra. I look forward to sharing highlights of our event in next month’s column.
Mark your calendars to attend this month’s chapter meeting, Friday, October 3, when we welcome members, Deanne Trionfante and Carol Ourant sharing information and their experiences as members with the Columbus Police Department Horse Unit. Our meeting will take place at the Kilbourne United Methodist Church, SR 521, Kilbourne, Ohio, beginning at 7 p.m. Light refreshments and a short business meeting will follow the presentation.
Lastly, save the following dates: Friday, November 7, regular meeting featuring member, Dan Chambers, sharing his experiences during his Ken McNabb certification program. After Dan’s presentation, we will focus on our election of officers for 2026. Our chapter Christmas party and potluck will occur on Friday, December 5 beginning at 7 p.m. Look for more details regarding these upcoming events in our newsletter and Facebook page, Delaware County, Ohio Horseman’s Council.
In closing, congratulations to members Carole Bosich, on her adorable new Aussie puppy, Little
Shane, and Jessica Sheppard, with her newest acquisition, Star, a 2-year-old Percheron/Morgan cross filly. We cannot wait to meet them both soon. Have a wonderful and safe October full of enjoyable riding!
~Theresa Burke
ERIE
Greetings from Erie County! Great weather is here and so is our annual poker ride. Cheryl Everman, our chairperson, and committees have done a fantastic job. It definitely takes the whole club! It seems to get bigger and better every year. However, due to an unforeseen surgery, I had to miss this year’s festivities. Greeting everyone is a beautiful sponsor banner. From what I heard, a bigger one might be needed next year! Lots of club brainstorming added a wagon for manure and hay disposal. Special tie lines are provided for riders coming down from Mason Road to tie up their horses.
New permanent high lines have been added to the Smokey Road trail head. The bridge on N. Creek has been tore down and removed. A new culvert has been added, topped by cloth and stone. S. Ridge and Thornapple have been restored and fabric placed where needed.
Great weather is predicted, and trails are ready. Look for the next issue of Corral to see pictures and details of this epic fall event. We would like to welcome new primary members, Donna Hamann and Tracy Sellers. We will be meeting at the Coupling (11618 State Route 113, Milan, Ohio), October 9. Potluck 6:30 p.m., meeting at 7 p.m.
Our postponed Elkins Creek campout is scheduled October 1619. Host is Marcia Herbkersman. Our Edison Woods campout is scheduled October 24-26. Place to be determined. Life is better on the trail!
~Shelley Hayes
FAIRFIELD
Hot! Hot! Hot! Hopefully not by the time you get to read this news. I just returned from our birthday celebration we hold each year celebrating everyone’s special day. This year we camped at Dillon’s with 11 rigs camping and Chris counting around 25 members attending the pizza party we furnished. There were cupcakes, cookies, cheesecake and homemade blackberry cobbler, with ice cream. The highlight was of course, Warren’s homemade brownies I think I need to forewarn you about having Chris as your trail guide. The rumor is he had to buy ice cream at the Marina for his followers. Another interesting thing was observed at Brians campsite. Seems he brought his brother-in-law to come riding and camping. According to what I was told he wasn’t letting him sleep with him. Poor guy had to sleep outside on a cot. Brian said there were lines he didn’t cross.
Next, I am going to report on myself which shows people my age can’t walk and chew gum at the same time. I wasn’t sure I was going to make camping because I have been dealing with my first kidney stone. There has to be a medal for everyone who has battled these things. Anyway, I rushed to get ready got halfway to the park and realized I left my cooler home and the back door open with the house key in the lock. See what I mean, chew, walk, duh! A couple of thank you’s from me to Donna and Keith for being trail guide, and Teresa for helping me at the pit stop I had to make.
Next was our state ride at Scioto Trails. First off thank you Mother Nature for giving us fall
weather in August. We had 47 campers plus day riders show up for the weekend. We also had seven different chapters attend. I want to report that one of our members, Art Crist, was able to get another sponsor donation for our ride also. We want to thank Transmet Corporation. I really want to give a big special shout out to June who goes out every year rounding up door prizes. One of the business’s she contacted was Home Depot. They presented her with an outdoor table and chairs that we are going to raffle off. If you are the lucky winner bring your truck. Friday night was attended by over 60plus people who came to eat the dinner we provided. Chris informed me there was only one piece of chicken left. After dinner we were entertained by Mr. Brian Westskittle. He informed us that he has a CD coming out with his number one song being about firefighters. Saturday saw practically everyone riding out for that day. In that group were seven young riders under the age of ten on their own horses. I also want to mention that Brian took out a group of young girls who came for a day ride. I counted ten riders. Saturday included our cookie contest and poker run contest, which was held under the big tent this year instead of out on the trail. We had 34 people who played and guess who won, yours truly. Because we were doing this ride for a charity, I gave the money back to the club.
Star
Carol with Little Shane.
Poker ride banner.
Labor Day at Smokie Road.
Fairfield County OHC
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On Saturday night we provided hamburgers for the potluck dinner and Chris reported there were 70 hamburgers consumed along with all the other food brought to eat by our members. A 50/50 drawing was also held that evening and a gentleman from Morrow County, John Nolan won and turned his winnings back to the club. Thank you! I forgot to mention that this year we included having a yard sale. I have included a picture of some of our guests making the rounds. On Saturday night we were given a surprise. Brycen Blair, a 16-year-old student at Logan Elm school, sang for three hours. I believe he is friends with the McGuire clan. I don’t want to leave out our poet Brian who provided us again with one of his poems. Sunday morning we provided a pancake and sausage breakfast. Another big thank you to our members who did the cooking. I won’t mention names because I will miss someone. I also want to mention that I got to pet that gray horse I like but Shelly has him now and I am not competition. That wraps up this column now because my brain is tired.
~Anita Hoon
FULTON
Fall is officially here! That means riding and camping for many of our members. We were busy in August, but the weather was often a limiting factor. Some members did go camping and a few others did day trips. We expected a lot more in September. Our August camping trip to Mohican was fantastic. We had ten rigs with 19 people make the trip. The weather was great even though it was hot and humid back home. The riding was superb, the food was awesome as always and we had a great time. We had the pleasure of meeting fellow trail rider Wade Spencer. Wade introduced himself, and we spent some time getting to know him and learning about his TV show, Life’s Highway. He shared that he was in the process of legging up his horses in preparation for an elk hunting trip out west. We thoroughly enjoyed our conversation with Wade and extended an invitation to him to join us for dinner. He and his wife, Teresa, graciously accepted. After a delicious meal, Wade treated us to a few songs around the campfire. We were all impressed by his incredible voice. Theresa’s homemade pickles and
rhubarb crisp was a hit as well. It was a memorable evening filled with great company, heartfelt music, and wonderful food.
The following weekend, August 15-17, we had our chili cookoff camping weekend at Reed Road Ranglers. Forty-five members and four guests attended. Nine chilis were entered; they were all really good and it was hard to choose a favorite. By popular vote, first place went to Polly Alvarez, second to Patty Solak and third to Connie Bauer. Polly planned to represent our chapter at the state chili cookoff at Mohican in September. The chapter meeting and chili cookoff were hosted by Jack Collins and Donna McHaffie. August saw some repairs and cleaning done at Reed Road Ranglers. Connie, Tim, LeRoy and Jerry fixed a highline and Connie and Lisa power washed the pavilion and picnic tables. Now we need to paint. There has been a lot of cleaning and fixing going on there this summer with a few making it nice for the many.
Our September chapter meeting was September 2 and was a corn roast hosted by Jack and Patty Solak. Forty-three members and guests attended at Reed Road Ranglers. At the meeting, Jack presented some exciting ideas for next year starting with forming a planning committee. Details to follow. Some of our adventurous members planned to ride in another parade. After having such a good time riding in the Swanton Corn Festival Parade in August, Tami, Polly and Kate planned to ride in the Delaware All Horse Parade on September 8, and Christine planned to join them. Many of us planned to camp and ride at the NW state ride at Van Buren September 19-21. Our Oktoberfest camping weekend was planned for October 3-5 with our main meal, dessert auction and chapter meeting October 4. Our dessert auction, which we have done for several years, generates funds
which we donate to area food banks and community groups. The Harry Hughes Equestrian Center planned to hold their ride-a-thon fundraiser that same weekend on Sunday and many of our members participate in that. Chapter meetings are usually on the first Tuesday of the month and will be at Reed Road Ranglers from May through October. Our website www.fcohc.com, our Facebook group Fulton County OHC and our Facebook page Fulton County Ohio 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
GALLIA
Hello, I hope everyone has been enjoying the summer. Down in our neck of the woods we have had a very dry, hot summer but, that has not stopped us from enjoying the trails. On August 9 we had a trail ride called Beat the Heat at Raccoon Creek Country Park. We had nine horse and riders with a total of about 30 in attendance. We also set up a trail obstacle challenge and had a stick horse race for those who did not bring horses. We grilled hotdogs and enjoyed some good desserts and fellowship. We are planning a trail ride/ scavenger hunt on November 1 with a chili potluck to follow. We will have the trail obstacle set up for riders to practice with their horses after the ride. We would love to have you all join us. If questions please feel free to contact Eddie Wolfe at 740/4163531 or Angie Jones at 740/2083972.
In other news, our county fair
was also held in July. Several of our members did really well at the fair. Gallia OHC Chapter sponsors the extreme trail for the 4-H exhibitors at the Gallia County Fair. This award is a belt buckle for the first place exhibitors in the junior and senior divisions. This year the junior winner was Kalley White and the senior winner was Alexis Carter. Our next meeting is October 14 at 6 p.m. at Kali’s Pizza in Rio Grande, Ohio. We hope to see you there.
~Angie Jones
GREENE
Fall is in the air, and it is beautiful to ride. The trails have been cleared, and the fall colors are brilliant. The Bubble Wrap Easy Peasy (BWEP) riders are making their way back to the trails slowly but surely and we are making progress. Many of us have had a few setbacks, such as broken bones and double mastectomy and then chemotherapy. We are strong and getting back in the saddle is the best therapy around. We go slow but steady. We thank you all for your continued support.
Connie, Tim, LeRoy and Jerry at Reed Road Ranglers.
Swanton Parade.
Riders leaving for the ride.
Mike O’Bryan helping Morgan and her horse with the trail obstacles.
Eddie Wolfe and Kalley White with her buckle.
County Lines
A few of our Greene County Ohio Horseman’s Council rode on Halloween at Sugar Creek Metro Park and a couple of us dressed up our horses for the ride. It was a blast, and we had a lot of fun. Horses are the best therapy for all things. To make everyone aware, Henry is missing his left eye, so the eye patch does not hurt him, and he is fine with dressing up. He makes a great pirate. Carole Cornwell and Mingo dressed as witches. Happy Halloween to all. 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
My hay season is done and I’m a happy man! I put 1,600 bales in the barn. The bad part of the summer was four straight weeks of ‘air that you wear!’ The humidly was so high I’d be soaked to the underwear before noon every day! Not much riding was done by anyone in the club during those weeks. But wash your eyes out with this, a picture of Don McIntyre on his horse, Doc. They are on Rocky’s Rock, which is at Salt Fork State Park on the White Trail—A Loop, just past the cemetery. I was with Don the
day we rode the trail and he was riding Rocky. When we got to the rock, you see in the picture, Don said, “If this horse will get up on that rock, I’m going to name him Rocky!” Just a few weeks before, Don bought Rocky from one of our club members; Jack Preece. Don had Rocky for 17 years. Don and Marcy, my wife Darla and I went to Caney Mountain Horse Camp located in Arkansas, back in April of 2022. Rocky died while we were there. Needless to say, that threw a wet blanket on the trip. Just a few short weeks after we got back, Don located Doc in Hamilton County, Ohio. It was love at first sight and Don brought Doc home. They’ve been inseparable ever since.
The blazed-face horse you see, was my first horse, a Paso Fino mare that I called Blaze. She was an awesome horse. The sad part was, she got ‘the heaves’ at the age of eight and I had to retire her. She lived to be 17 and died on the farm. She has a headstone on her grave. I miss her a lot. We rode everywhere!
When she got ‘the heaves’, my horse Ben was just a fluff-tailed baby. You can’t ride Pasos until they are four years old. Their knees need to fully mature. So, for four years I walked Ben everywhere. Took him to town, to the exit and entrance ramps of I-77 at Stone Creek to get him used to traffic. People on their porches would holler, “Lee, you ever going to ride that horse?”
When graduation day finally came, we took our first official ride. I rode him on the road in front of our house to Stone Creek. Where my pasture fence ends, alongside the road, the berm is only three feet wide, from there it is 110 feet to the bottom. When Ben and I got right beside that ravine, some guy in a one-ton panel van pulled up alongside of me and laid on
the horn. I thought, “Well Ben, this is either going to be a very good day, or I’m a dead man!” Ben never flinched! Let me tell you, I was one happy Papa! All that training paid off!
Dee Dee and I hope to see you on the trail!
~Lee Randolph
HAMILTON
Hello and welcome to the fall riding season. OHC state rides and camping trips are filling calendars. Speaking of camping trips, if you have not heard, Hamilton County OHC members are gathering for a laid back, get together, camping weekend at Pine Creek Horse Camp to ride and enjoy Hocking Hills State Park. Dates are Thursday through Sunday, October 2-5, with everyone making their own reservations online at pinecreekhockinghills. com or calling 740/478-2520. Check out our Facebook page for more information at Ohio Horseman’s Council Hamilton County Chapter. We hope to see you there!
In addition, Hamilton County OHC is blessed with having four, absolutely lovely, Junior Ambassador members: Elizabeth Landfried, Emma Schultz, Kenlie Shartzer and Reese Stuart. This month we will highlight Emma Schultz. Emma Schultz is a 14-year-old, ninth grader who attends Badin School. Emma
has been a member of 4-H for three years, currently holds the position of vice president for the 4-H group Hamilton County Livestock Club and works with her family’s cows. This summer, Emma and her farm raised steer ‘Stink A Lot’ enjoyed a couple of big Hamilton County Community Fair wins: Grand Champion Market Steer, Grand Champion Showmanship Beef and Reserve Grand Champion Beef Breeding. In addition, Emma enjoys riding horses and just completed Purdue University’s week-long Veterinarian Camp, choosing to be a member of the ‘Horse Team’. In her spare time, Emma enjoys caring for and working with her cows, riding horses and wants to become a veterinarian when she grows up.
To find out more about HCOHC and access our membership application link, please go to ohconline.com, ‘find chapter’ and type in ‘Hamilton County’in the search bar. You can also follow us on Facebook at ‘Ohio Horseman’s Council Hamilton County Chapter’~Ann Frederick
HARRISON
Hello OHC! I hope everyone is enjoying the fall riding season after our hot summer. The weather has been fantastic this week as I write this. Sympathies to our members Faye and Cindy who lost horses this summer. It is never easy to say goodbye, especially to the good ones. Many of us had ridden Cindy’s Tess, who was one of those horses you could put anyone on.
Henry and his pirate costume.
Don on Doc on Rockys Rock.
Ben
Blaze
Emma Schultz
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Tess was Cindy’s go to horse when she wanted a safe but fun ride. It had to be rough losing her. Poor Faye lost two at once this summer. Double loss hard to imagine but understand when it is time. It makes me value my barn time and horses even more.
HCOHC is planning our Dorothy Glover Memorial Ride scheduled for October 18 around 10 a.m. at Harrison State Forest. The trails offer great fall riding, and everyone is invited. The ride is in honor not only of our previous president Dorothy, but all club members who have passed. I have fond memories of the rides I shared with Dorothy as well as Bruce, Nancy and Alan. A true friend is never really gone. Their spirit lives on in those who loved them. We will have food and refreshments available after the ride in the
Dorothy Pavilion if you wish to join us. Please come even if you don’t ride. Eat time is around 2 p.m. after the riders are back. Hope to see you there!
~Sherrie Hart
HOCKING
Boy, for as miserable hot as it was this summer, it sure did fly by quickly! The kids are back to school and the days are getting shorter. This doesn’t mean that the horse activities are slowing down. Just the opposite in fact! It is the height of the riding season—fall! Bees have been reported, same as they are every year. By the time this article comes out though, bee season will be over and all that we will have left are the good memories; 4-H competitions, the rodeos at the county fairs and all the fun we had camping with our horse friends. Quarter Horse Congress will be in full swing.
Many of our club members have been camping this fall. We have a good group that represented our club at the Gibby Ride, Salt Fork, Scioto Trails and Hocking, just to name a few. Our youth have also done a fine job representing our club through local 4-H programs. We also have other members competing in open shows and mounted shooting.
No matter what your interest, we probably have a member who ‘does that’! If not, we know someone, who knows someone. We always welcome visitors and hope that you will join our club!
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
KNOX
Happy trails and greetings from Knox County! August has been another busy month for KCOHC members. At the Barkcamp campout, members enjoyed perfect weather as well as the Gibby dinner and award ceremonies. I was told they played a cut-throat game of Yellowstone Uno and did a little dancing too. Congratulations to Laurie Murdick who was awarded ‘most improved in trail maintenance’. I’m sure she cherishes her award. That was followed by our club ride and campout at Mohican State Park. We had 14 riders, and 28 members and guests come together on Saturday for pizza and the evening’s entertainment, the music of Nancy Strayer and friends. Thank you Nancy! And another big thank you to Phil Rauch for acting as our host for the weekend and treating us to fun games and prizes.
The event planning committee has been busy plotting and planning our next fundraising event which is a combined scavenger hunt and obstacle challenge. It is on October 11 at Thayer Ridge Park in Mt. Vernon. Sign in starts at 11 a.m.
with last horse out at noon. Our theme for this event is ‘The Four Seasons’ and all the scavenger hunt items and obstacles will reflect spring, summer, fall and winter. Check our Facebook page or look for our ad in the Corral for more details. You can also contact Cindy at 614/296-7893. 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
LICKING
It’s not too late to join in on the Oktoberfest fun at Dillon State Park on October 17-19.
Many thanks to Rick and Todd Patterson, Charlene and Craig Santee, Keith White, Kirk Lloyd and Chris Streitenberger for completing the new mounting block at Dillon, your hard work and efforts are appreciated. Go check it out!
Pine Ridge Equine Playground will be holding the Fall Finale Training Clinic, October 4 and Challenge, Novice and Advanced, October 5. Reservations may be made by Facebook messenger or text, Deena, 740/503-4781.
Licking Park District has hired a new maintenance worker, James Holiday. Look for continued improvements to our parks and trails.
The late Nancy VanCuren on Cocoa.
The late Dorothy Glover on Cody.
Bob Glover’s last year’s Dorothy Ride.
County fair rodeos.
4-H show.
Salt Fork.
Laurie Murdick with her award.
On the tie line at Malabar Farm.
Nancy and friends at Mohican campout.
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Just a reminder that dog mushing rules at Licking County Parks remain the same this year. Be safe out there and enjoy this beautiful riding weather!
~Crystal Kirk
LORAIN
Hello all! We at Lorain County hope we all have some sunny days to showcase the fall foliage we cherish this time of year. Personally, I especially enjoy the crunch of the leaves and the cooler air that helps to invigorate my steed as well as myself. At the end of the ride, a crisp apple is a treat for both of us to top off a fun day.
This October, Harrison Trailers has sponsored our calendar, and we greatly appreciate this. He carries a variety of new and used trailers including Featherlite, Exiss, Sooner and Elite. Harrison Trailers is in Wellington, Ohio. You will find details about all the trailers when you search Harrisontrailers.com.
A good-sized group of Lorain members enjoyed their time in Bennezette, Pa., this August. They were able to cross the creek and enjoyed the logging trails in the Allegheny Mountains. A large bull elk was spotted by 12 riders on the last day: a great finale to a wonderful camping trip!
Our annual trip to Hocking Hills is set for mid-October. We will be camping at the Pine Creek Horse Camp. Attendees needed to pay ahead for their clams and chicken. The Horseman’s Mission at Holmes County Fairgrounds is October 15-18. We will hold our membership meeting and clambake on Tuesday, October 21. The clambake will begin at 6 p.m. with the meeting following at 7 p.m. at the Monyak’s home. Last year everything was delicious. We thank Lara and Tony for hosting it again this year. Those able to help choose activities for our 2026 calendar of events, please plan to meet at Calvery Baptist Church in Oberlin on Thursday, October 23 at 6:30 p.m. Sandy Shudy is the contact for this meeting. A Halloween day ride is scheduled for Saturday, October 25 at Carlisle Equestrian Center. Plan to dress up for the ride if you’d like to and be ready to ride at 1 p.m.
Looking ahead to the beginning of November, we plan to ride through a corn maze at Derthick Farm located at 5182 Twinsburg Warren Road in Mantua, Ohio. We had a great time last year, so we decided to do it again. You can bring your own horses to this fun event. The maze spans around 17 acres and takes approximately two hours. The maze has a different theme each year. More information may be found on their website at derthickcornmaze. com. Lara Monyak is the contact for Lorain horse council members. We will plan to ride at Bedford Reservation on Sunday, November 2 for a ride beginning at 11 a.m. We will meet at Jack’s
Place Trailhead located at 14505 Button Road, Walton Hills, Ohio. If you’d like to attend the State OHC meeting at Elk’s Lodge in Newark, Ohio, it is on Saturday, November 8. It will begin at 10:30 a.m. Please contact Jim Wallace with inquires. Be extra cautious as there may be frightful creatures roaming the trails this Halloween.
~Kathy Duncan MEDINA
First, I have a correction from the August Corral article. Some of our members were participants in the Wadsworth Blue Tip Festival Parade back in June. Raydeen Ryden, our president, and Joyce Tretow long time parade alumni, brought along some of students and friends and their horses to march along with Julie Croston and Helen Knapper. They participated with the Dry Lot Crew, founded by Julie Croston and Ashley Todich of Stark OHC. The Dry Lot Crew are a group of friends and fellow members of various OHC chapters who like to ride in parades to showcase our horses and their abilities.
I’ve included more pictures this month of our members doing what we do, getting out and about sharing our horses with others at various fairs and events. Joyce Tretow, who is our premier ambassador of all things equestrian was at Peninsula Live with one of her minis. Another great ambassador, Cheryl Hess was at Horses in the Valley at Hunt Farm in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, sharing a horse snuggle with a visitor. All summer you’ll find us at fairs, festivals and anywhere we can show off our four-footed friends. We continue this all through the holiday season. Watch for us!
Ah, wilderness! Our last meeting of the year at Robinson provided us with a lovely evening to relax and hear about the latest adventures of our members.
Amy O’Neil had just returned from a great pack trip in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Along with Raydeen Ryden, Michelle Crew, Lee Hendrickson (of Summit) and our own OHC president, Mary Alice Kuhn, they logged many an hour in the saddle and enjoyed camping in the great outdoors. It’s Montana, folks, so there is an emphasis on ‘great’. The good news? No bears!
Only a few opportunities left to come help us trail busters show the CVNP beavers who’s boss!
Yeah, it’s the beavers. But we keep trying anyway and the Valley trail will be a lot more enjoyable if we continue our efforts. Next session is October 11 and the last will be November 8 or 15 (weather permitting). Contact Raydeen Ryden (raysden2@ gmail.com or 334/663-7361) or Greg Monsanty (330/352-5737 or (blackhorsebridge@aol.com) for details on the dates and where and when to meet. The park provides tools and equipment. Fall is a great time to ride. Where? Down in the valley of course!
~Rosemary
MEIGS
The Meigs Chapter would like to invite all riders and non-riders to our Festival of the Leaves Annual Trail Ride on October 18. We moved it a week later in the month this year so our riders could attend another ride that is usually on the same date. There will be a memorial service at the camp before the ride at 10 a.m. with the ride beginning after. After the ride stay for a potluck dinner, door prizes, games and lots of fun. Can’t wait to see you at the ride!
We love seeing everyone come out and enjoy their ponies at our monthly fun shows! The competition is on so keep coming to get your points in for the yearend buckles! Remember you must come to half of the shows to
Licking County OHC
Billy crossing river, Bennezzette.
Sue at Big Elk Lick campground, Bennezette.
Elk at Bennezzette.
Horses in the Valley with Cheryl Hess.
Peninsula Live with Joyce Tretow.
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qualify to win a buckle. We also want to thank all our members who come out and help set up the obstacles and keep track of points and placings, announce, open and close gates, supply and cook the food, mow the trails and prepare the arena. Without you the shows wouldn’t happen, you’re all amazing!
Just a reminder to keep track of your trail miles because we will award the top two trail mile riders buckles and the third and fourth place riders will receive halters at the year end Christmas party. Also, if you ride at the AEP camp in Langsville, you can double your miles ridden there for year end totals!
The Meigs chapter meets each month on the third Tuesday (October 21) with the exception of December. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. at Fox’s Pizza Den in Pomeroy, Ohio. Visitors are welcome, please join us to learn more about OHC and see how you can become a member.
~Jocelyn Wilson PERRY
Our club had a fantastic turnout
and beautiful weather for our August ride at Salt Fork. Despite an accident which sidelined our hosts, the event was as perfect as you can imagine. Many thanks to Heather and Ben Stengle for the tremendous amount of work they put into this chapter ride which they unfortunately didn’t even get to enjoy. The Stengles not only supplied the scavenger hunt figurines but also hid them, so well in fact that two were not found! The handmade crocheted prizes courtesy of Heather, which were totally awesome, included two horse holiday hats, a couple ‘human’ Santa hats and several hand towels. And did I mention the food? Ben prepared smoked meats while Heather put together her delicious crockpot cheesy potatoes. Outstanding! The trivia game also was a hit though three or four members netted most of the prizes.
As to the accident, Heather had an involuntary dismount from her 3-year old mule, Delilah. We wish her a speedy recovery. I hear she will be back on her feet in a few weeks and back on her trusted steed, Buddy, shortly thereafter.
During August many members joined in on the fun at the state Gibby Ride at Barkcamp which was at full capacity for the event. The music was great as was the entertainment by the dancers, a couple of whom were celebrating birthdays. We were fortunate that the weather was phenomenal for that weekend only, with temps in the low 80s. It was a welcome relief.
Labor Day weekend found several members participating in the state ride at Scioto Trails hosted by Fairfield OHC. The weather was exceptional, and Fairfield members put on a wonderful event complete with a chicken dinner and two nights of
music as well as door prizes. It was awesome. Saturday night’s entertainment was a 16-year-old young man who sang his heart out with a great repertoire of hits. We did have an incident that left one of our riders stinging more than a little bit after being attacked by bees. She sustained several stings to her face, legs, and arms. It’s no fun being stung, especially in the face. She has since recovered but will never forget that unfortunate event.
Congrats to Jeff and Jayme Coakley on the purchase of their new Lakota living quarters trailer. I took a tour, and it is so nice! It’s always fun to see fellow members get new horses and trailers. Next time I would advise Jeff to put the jack up before he starts backing! Luckily no damage was done.
Our soup ride on October 10 has been moved to the Appalachian Wildlife area, formerly McConnelsville AEP. With the camping area still closed at Burr Oak we felt this was the best venue for the ride. We hope to see other chapters join in on the fun.
We have many upcoming fall rides on the schedule including Beaver Creek so join us as we hope for some welcome crisp weather. October begins renewal season as well as nominations for the 2026 officers so think about stepping up to the plate to move the club forward. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at the Pizza Place, New Lex.
It’s that time of year so ‘bee’ safe and happy trails!
~Marianne
PREBLE
Fall is here and we are in the prime trail riding season. Soon the color of fall will be here. That also means hunting season is approaching. Make sure you are safe on the trails and dress in bright colors.
The members of Preble County OHC would like to thank everyone for their support in our Labor Day fun show.
The state ride is upon us. The first weekend of October. We would like to welcome everyone to come ride our trails at Hueston Woods. Enjoy a fun filled weekend. Starting off with Friday we will provide a free soup dinner come taste them all. Saturday we will have group trail rides, fun show, a pulled pork dinner, live band, and silent auction with door prizes. Lots of activities! Please come and show your support to Preble County OHC. Don’t forget to follow our Facebook page to get your 2025 State ride T-shirt. We can’t wait to see you all there.
We want to acknowledge our Junior Ambassadors all have been working hard putting in those trail miles and show points. We want to give a special shout out to Ari and her Gypsy’s. She has accomplished so much this year, she does not just show one but three. Congratulations Ari! The month of October we will be having a work month. Check our Facebook page for days and times. We have lots of work planned and would like any volunteers that is willing to help. Enjoy your fall trail riding and be careful.
STARK
Welcome to the fall months and much cooler weather. A great time to get our horses out and ride.
At the end of August two of our members, Joyce and Ron Wilson, invited our chapter to their home for a hamburger and hot dog roast plus covered dish dinner. It was so nice getting together and visiting. We do not normally have chapter meetings during the summer. Everyone had a great time! Thanks Joyce and Ron for your hospitality.
This past month Mary Alice Kuhn and her husband Steve made their trip to Montana again, and took several members of other OHC chapters with them. They go to the Bob Marshall Wilderness and pack out for a week. They have been attending the same horse camp for many years and have gone on different trails. She shared some pictures on Facebook and when I thought about writing this article, I could not find them. She said some of the trails were very rough and it was where you learned to trust
Everyone cheering at the fun show.
Fun show shenanigans.
Beka Setzer and Wiskey
Salt Fork prizes.
Salt Fork ride.
Brian and Tex.
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your horse. Hopefully, she will share the pictures with us as they were breath-taking. Enjoy the rest of the year.
~Jo Ellen
SUMMIT
I saw the first sign of autumn mid-August with a few orangegold tips on maples driving south of Ashland on 71. It is like a relief that most of the sweltering summer is gone but it also means the riding season is winding down for another year. If you still are looking for an opportunity to savor the camping experience yet this fall, Summit OHC has a camping weekend scheduled at Mohican State Park. There will be something to please just about everyone. Of course we can’t guarantee the weather but the fall colors will be out to impress. There will be basket raffles and some surprise values if you are in the shopping mode. The event will be limited to (25) trailers due to space limitations. Riders can arrive at 9 a.m. on Friday, October 17 to set up camp. Please note that riders must bring their own high line ropes and rigging. Also, if you bring your dog along, it must be on a leash for everyone’s safety. No meals will be provided on Friday. Before heading out, be sure to check if there are any trail closings or warnings in the area. Riders can enjoy the trails and return for the evening campfire which starts around 6 p.m. That gives everyone time to settle in and get ready for the weekend. Saturday will be another opportunity to ride with your friends or make new ones to enjoy the autumn colors and vistas throughout the day. Pulled pork will be provided at the 6 p.m. evening meal with a covered dish to replenish all those calories you burned. Those with last names starting with A-M are asked to bring a special side dish while those N-Z bring desserts. After the meal, an
evening of campfire camaraderie, and swapping tales of this year’s hair-raising rides, everyone can settle in for a good night’s rest and ride again Sunday before heading for home. If you would like to join us, please contact Molly Eastwood at 330/603-0820 or mke514@aol.com.
For those who like to live vicariously through others’ adventures, we have been lucky enough to follow Leigh Hendrickson and Amy O’Neil on their riding vacation to the 7LazyP ranch and the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area in Montana. It takes a real element of trust and confidence to climb on a new horse and head out with a pack string for over a week in the mountains roughing it. We could only marvel at the scenery and precarious trails that would have given most of us a nosebleed. Congratulations ladies and thanks for sharing your adventures.
Plans for the new mounting block station at Silver Creek Metro Parks are in the final stages. Summit OHC has provided funds for materials needed and the parks will provide the labor to erect and install it. This project has been years in the making and will provide a safer option to the picnic table or large rocks riders have been using. Thanks to all the members who have worked on this project over the years and seeing it through to completion. Our best wishes go out to Joy Scala on her acquisition of a new Morgan Horse. This young horse will be the latest in her line of Morgan show horses Joy carefully nurtures to develop their
awe inspiring abilities whether in halter classes, riding or driving. We wish you every success. We want to send out our words of encouragement to Mary Forsch who has health issues greatly limiting riding her young Quarter Horse this year. We hope that with care, Mary will grow strong enough to log a few more saddle hours before year’s end. Stay strong; we are all pulling for you.
Take every opportunity to enjoy riding out 2025. Who knows where the trails will take you.
~Joann Ulichney UNION
Howdy!. I hope everyone had an awesome summer and racked up those trail miles and saddle hours. I am definitely looking forward to autumn, which is the best time of year to hit the trails. Jim and I enjoyed working on the Tuesday maintenance crew at Alum Creek State Park this summer. The trails at Alum Creek State Park are in awesome shape and ready to ride. Happy trails.
~Debbie Strayton
WARREN
This year we tried something different as an outreach to the 4-H kids. We already help by providing food at the Warren County fun show, but we wanted to give more of them an opportunity to see the trails. So, we held an event where they could either camp or day ride with guides. One family camped, along with a Warren County member. But quite a few came to ride and enjoyed themselves. Hopefully we can keep this up. It was unfortunately, very hot that weekend, or more would have probably camped/shown up, but that’s the way our summer has
gone. Two of the photos this month are from that ride. I’m not sure of who took them, but I got them from Belinda Snell and Barb Pfantz, so thanks to them. You’re Over the Hill Gang has continued to work on the trails. We’ve been concentrating around camp, because of the 4-H Competitive Trail Ride on September 6. But the contractor has also been out working on the heavy spots, and the park was able to get the mini-excavator to clear a big tangle of trees just above the boat ramp that would have taken us forever to do. The trails down to the lake have been widened and improved. The aim is for my UTV to be able to fit easily. It’s been mostly successful, though there was a mishap where it slid and got trapped between two trees. It took Tom Prudhoe and Harold McKeehan and both their chain saws plus quite a bit of work to get me free, but they got it done. And that spot is wider now. As of this year, we’re no longer having an August Saturday workday. Since the Abi-Khan+ Challenge endurance ride is no longer, we felt there was no need to hold one when it was sweltering (but as ride manager, I appreciate all the years it was held!). We talked about holding one in the fall, and since there’s an endurance ride at the park on November 1, we’re holding it on October 11, with a rain date
Don’t step back!
Amy wrangling strays.
Leigh at Heavens Gate.
Jim working on the trails at Alum Creek State Park.
Warren County OHC
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of October 18. We’ll meet at 9 a.m. at the horse camp as we do for Green Up Day. We’d love to have as many people join us as possible. Bring loppers, chain saws, ATVs or whatever you have, and we’ll find a job for you. If you planned a camping trip there that weekend, you may not want to ride before noon. More information will follow. That’s it for this month. Happy riding! ~Mickie
WASHINGTON
Greetings, ghouls and boils. It’s hard to believe that it is already October. Riding season is in full swing and almost over for the year. That’s a scary thought for our chapter members because we do love to ride, along with eating and having fun.
We had a wonderful corn roast ride in August along with a scavenger hunt, poker ride, a 50/50 game, several door prizes, a lot of good corn and other delicious food. Including two types of homemade ice cream, vanilla, and cherry nut. Followed by a fantastic auction with very nice items donated by several feed stores, tack stores, and chapter members. We had 16 riders and over 32 members attend the dinner, making it a very successful, fun-filled day along with a profit for our chapter. Thank you to all who attended. Pass the word to those who were unable to attend that they missed a wonderful time and should plan to come next year.
On a sadder note, we lost a couple of past members in August. Long time member Ray Tidd passed away at age 87 after a long battle with cancer. Karen Szabo’s husband, Tim also passed away after some health issues. Karen and Tim moved to Florida a few years back and have been missed by many in our chapter who enjoyed riding trails with Karen. We also had a couple of members who have had to put their horses down due to health problems. Our hearts and prayers go out to all who have lost loved ones, be they two or four legged.
As horse lovers and owners, we all have or will have the day come we too will have to make the decision as to how long should we keep trying to save our beloved horse or pet before we give in and help them escape the pain this life can become for them when they are ill or older with failing health.
May we all be strong enough to make the correct decision at the proper time for the sake of our much-loved pets. As a chapter we are sorry for their loss and understand the difficulty they had in making such decisions. As well as the pain of loss they feel afterwards.
May you all enjoy riding the trails and stay safe this fall.
~Rita Schultheis
WAYNE
As the sweltering days and hot nights of summer melt into the warm days and cool nights of fall, we look forward to many more days of riding, camping, and camaraderie. It also heralds the start of forest management and trail disruption. At Mohican, the North Blue trail will be partially closed from now until reopening in the spring of 2026. You can still ride out and back from the ball diamond to just past the Fire Tower. You will need to turn around before you get to State Route 95. This closure is to keep riders safe during active forest management. Malabar will see road work near the bridge on the road going up to the Visitor Center. You can still ride the road but use caution.
Members enjoyed camping at Pleasant Hill during the month of August. Sheila Haury hosted the camp out and members met up with folks they had camped with in years past for an enjoyable weekend of riding, eating, and catching up on old times. Tuesday rides at Mohican continued with a few interruptions for stormy weather. There were as many as 12 riders for some of the noon rides. Other members headed out on their own as Jen Petersen traveled back to Summer’s Allegheny Trail ride for a weekend of riding with friends and family. Some of our members took advantage of their secondary membership to enjoy a beautiful Labor Day weekend of camping hosted by Holmes County OHC. Day rides abounded as Jody Jackson and Rachel Gardner took Jody’s young horse Ace on his first ‘trail ride.’ Rachel ponied him off Jody’s horse Cortez and he was a champion, even mastering a water crossing. Mohican was the favorite trail for Lucinda Arnold and Martha Parrot both for Tuesday rides and other days. Charlene Schnarr was able to get back in the saddle again after a long recovery from her accident this spring and
shoulder surgery. The trails are in great shape with all the dry weather we have enjoyed. It is not good for growing hay but is great for riding!
Our junior members are preparing for the Wayne County Fair, and we look forward to congratulating them on their success and hard work this summer. Members will again man the ticket booth at the fair as a fundraiser. It is always nice to see people you seem to only meet up with once a year at the fair!
As we move into fall there are still plenty of opportunities to ride and camp with the club. We look forward to camping at Beaver Creek, Pine Creek at Hocking Hills and Salt Fork so, pack those saddles up and join us for the weekend or week as you are able. Happy trails.
~Susan Baker
WOOD
October! The month where we take on different personas and dress to scare or entertain. The month when the candy companies encourage all to sample their wares, while generously passing out the same to all the little ghouls and goblins. And the reason most of us are truly
interested in, the month when riding our equine partners becomes extremely pleasant due to cooler temperatures and the lack of annoying insects!
While fall tends to bring the end of the camping season, it certainly doesn’t have to be the end of riding for the year; especially with all the trail improvements that many OHC clubs, Wood County included, have been working on. In early August, despite some pretty hot and sticky days, Wood County members provided trail work at our ‘home base’ of Van Buren State Park. We laid several rolls of Geotech and well over 112 tons of gravel on the white trail, as well as the newer access trail (going from the day area to the equine campground). We had a wonderful crew every day for five days straight, including members from Fulton, Hancock and Sandusky Counties. This was truly a cooperative effort, with everyone pitching in and contributing as they were able. Yours truly even refreshed her skills operating one of the stone buggies, while others worked
Elsie and Diva at Pleasant Hill.
Taren Tate
Jody, Rachel and Ace.
Trail work: Jim, Jon and Jeff.
This is what you do with leftover Geotech rolls!
Rebel wants Barb to share her sandwich!
Buckeye Equestrian Association
Rose Watt Confidence Clinic Well
Attended
PRESIDENT, Patricia Andio
VICE PRESIDENT, Susan Smith-Gordan
SECRETARY, Jennifer Milliner
TREASURER, Sally Kish
FACEBOOK, Buckeye Equestrian Association
The Confidence Clinic was held August 9 at Pure Gold Equestrian Center in Salem, Ohio. This was for adults to overcome anxiety, stress, overthinking, muscle tension or just doubting your
riding abilities. The theme of the day was ‘There are plenty of obstacles in your path. Don’t let yourself be one of them.’
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
Welcome to October everyone! It’s been a wonderful camping season for us all at Tri-County. The leaves are changing colors and falling into beautiful piles of red, yellow, orange and green
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the Bobcat or laid the Geotech or raked gravel—a task I can definitely tell you is not for the faint of heart, or shoulders! It was a great time of comradery and fellowship while we worked together to make our trails more usable during all seasons. The results speak for themselves, as I’m sure you will see if you join us here in northwest Ohio.
Recent Wood County activities have included camping at Salamonie State Forest in Indiana and Barkcamp State Park in southeast Ohio. We were blessed with wonderful weather for both trips. Despite being a little warm, it did not prevent us from enjoying several miles daily with our friends, equine and human. We did have to modify our campfires though; Matt runs a terrific fire pit, but we had personal fans available to offset
Watt was the instructor. Breakfast, lunch and supper was provided by Buckeye members. Those who attended learned a lot
Halloween Event Details
indicating that this camping season is nearing its end. TriCo’s camping season doesn’t end until November 1 and there’s still the Halloween event for everyone to enjoy!
The Halloween event is scheduled for October 10-12 this year and has many activities for everyone of all ages! The meals for this weekend are supplied when you purchase the weekend package, and include Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as Sunday breakfast! There will be costume contests for all ages, as well as horse and rider costume
contests, kids’ games, trick or treat around the campground, and pumpkin carving! On Saturday, the ‘spooky desserts’ come out for a competition to see which is the spookiest one of all! The trails are looking great this year for the Halloween event weekend. There are several trails to choose from and all are well marked and maintained. Our trails are made up of all our local landowners who graciously allow us to use their properties to have a gorgeous trail system! Some of our landowners have used their own equipment and time to keep our trails looking
great. We have some great trail managers who have taken many hours to clean trails, cut trees, and fix and repair bridges on the trails. Halloween is the best time to get out on the trails and enjoy the fall foliage and scenery here at Tri-County Trail Association! If you haven’t been able to visit us at Tri-County yet, there’s no better time than the present to gather up some treats for the kids and come out and spend a great weekend with great people and make some new friends as well as enjoy camping and costumes! We here at Tri-Co welcome one and all. Have a great October!
the heat! Slightly ridiculous, yes, but we were camping! I’m pretty sure it’s written somewhere that you have to have a campfire when you’re camping! We enjoy each other’s company and have a lot of fun laughing at and with each other too.
We have a few upcoming events for Wood County OHC, including our (almost) annual Hobo Stew, renamed this year as the Hobo Stew Soup Fest, to be held on October 11-12. Numerous activities are scheduled, including several for kids. There are still a few campsites available at Van Buren State Park if you would like to join in the fun. Please refer to our Facebook page (Wood Co OHC) for more information and times. And even if you choose not to participate in the events, you will want to take advantage of the deals to be had at the
Chinese auction and the silliness of the costume parade.
Later October (24-26) has a trip to Sycamore State Park. And I neglected to mention that on October 5, there is a Ride-AThon at Harry Hughes near Oak Openings. Several Wood County members regularly participate in this very worthy fundraiser and report having a wonderful time supporting a great cause and adding miles to their totals. Check
Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Act of August 12, 1970; Section 3685, Title 39, United States Code) dated October 1, 2025, of The Horsemen’s Corral, published monthly at 8283 Richman Road, Medina County, Lodi, Ohio 44254. The names and addresses of the Publisher, Editor, and Business Manager of The Horsemen’s Corral are: Publisher: Horsemen’s Corral, LLC, 8283 Richman Road, Medina County, Lodi, Ohio 44254. Editor: Roberta L. Coalter, P.O. Box 32, Lodi, Ohio 44254. Business Manager: L. Joe Coalter, P.O. Box 32, Lodi, Ohio 44254. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders, owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities: None. The average number of copies of each issue this publication sold or distributed through the mails or otherwise paid subscribers during the (12) months preceding the date shown is 5,000.
the Harry Hughes Facebook page for more information and to get registered.
Wood County OHC sincerely hopes that you and yours are able to take opportunities to enjoy the fall weather. Even though it is the entrance to cooler times, which I know many are not a fan of, there are wonderful sights to see and rides to take. Stay right side up and watch out for those spooks and goblins!
39 W.S.C. 3626 provides in pertinent: “No person who would have been entitled to mail matter under former section 4359 of this title shall mail such matter at the rates provided under this sub-section unless he files annually with the Postal Service a written request for permission to mail matter at such rates.” In accordance with the provisions of this statute, I hereby request permission to mail the publication named at the reduced postal rates presently authorized by 39 W.S.C. 3626. Horsemen’s Corral, LLC, Publisher I certify to the best of my knowledge and believe this is a true statement of ownership, management, etc. of aforesaid publication for the date shown in the above caption required by the Act of August 21, 1970 embodied in Section 3685, Title 39, United States Code. L. Joe Coalter, G.M. September 22, 2025.
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and had a great time. For the love of horses and riders.
