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
Features: Kelley Bitter, Rob and Tanya Corzatt Robert Eversole, Terry Myers, Sarah Vas
Guests:
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.
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The Horsemen’s Corral cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.
MAILING ADDRESS & PHONE:
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OFFICE: 330/635-4145
ABOUT THE COVER: She may be just shy of her second birthday, but Cora Finley isn’t shy on the course! Cora rides her pony, Princess Penelope, across the obstacles at Creek Side Horse Park in her first ever Extreme Cowboy Race! Photo by Shae O’Hara of ShaeMar Snap and Customs, www.Sms-customs.com.
Ride In Sync
Training Tip Part 2 — Teaching a Horse to ‘Give’ to Pressure
by Terry Myers
Last month’s article was regarding the first rides on a horse. Now we can talk about the next training steps. This is the point in a young horse’s development when they will accept a rider and move forward at the walk, trot and canter. The only thing I have asked of the horse, other than to not buck me off, is to move forward and start to give to rein pressure. Now it’s time for the next steps, getting the horse to bend and give to rein and leg pressure.
Here is a big training secret I’m going to share with you…your horse is just like you, he wants to be comfortable. Shocking, right? In order to keep him comfortable, you have to help him be balanced and to do that you have to ride in a balanced manner. All horses and particularly young horses are most likely to be balanced if they are allowed to follow their nose. In other words, they need to be able to look where they are going, just like us. Whenever
you see a horse riding around an arena with their nose turned toward the outside, they are out of balance.
A horse can be broken down into three parts: the head/neck, the shoulder/ribcage and the hip. We have to teach the horse that we ultimately control all parts of their body both together and separately. That goes back to the rider, if you only ride with your hands, you only control the front third of your horse. Ride with your entire body and you can develop control of the entire horse.
Starting the young horse at a walk, lift the inside rein (do not pull it back) and bump with the calf of your inside leg. Here’s a trick…when you use your inside leg, bump in the same rhythm as your horse’s walk. As soon as you feel your horse start to give and move outward (away from your inside leg) even slightly, you release both rein and leg pressure as the reward. The key here is to use your leg in a soft
bumping motion using your calf (or as I like to say, use your boot top), not your heel. This will keep you in a balance position. Do not squeeze your inside leg. Be patient and if you are not getting any reaction use your leg bigger, not harder. Got it? Now do this about a thousand times on each side! Do this same technique at the walk, trot and canter. Once the young horse will respond to inside rein and leg pressure (this will take about 30 to 45 days of training), it’s time to think about adding the outside rein to start squaring the horse’s shoulders. If the shoulders aren’t square, the horse will never be able to get off their front end and drive from behind in a collected manner. You will hopefully start to realize that once you can get a bend on your inside rein/leg, your outside rein is actually much more important in terms of the effect it creates. The reason the outside rein works has to do with the biomechanics of the horse. All horses are bilateral, what happens on one side in the front causes a reaction of the opposite side in the back. The reason this is of critical importance is that all of the horse’s power and drive comes from the back end. Think about it, so many of the different equine disciplines that we admire, i.e. barrel racing, dressage, jumping, reining, cutting, all involve propulsion and power from the hind end. If we pull the horse around the arena on the inside rein, we actually cause the outside opposite hind leg to step out and create a decrease in the power because the horse is pulling themselves along instead pushing themselves from behind. To start using the outside rein… get the bend on the inside rein/ leg that you have been diligently practicing and perfecting, then take steady pressure on the outside rein with your outside hand position back by the pommel of the saddle. With your inside rein keep a ‘feel’ on the horse’s mouth without pulling. What you should expect to feel is a change in the rhythm of the horse’s feet, with their stride getting slightly
longer and slower. Once you feel this, reward your horse by letting go of all leg and rein pressure. Make sure with your release that you are giving total release, no rein pressure. What you are accomplishing with this maneuver is squaring the horse’s body and controlling their shoulders. Over time, you will build up your horse’s top line, their back and loin muscles, which will give them the strength to move in a collected frame. 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. Last tip…if your horse is heavy and pulling in your hands, remember it takes two to pull.
Terry Myers is a national clinician and champion horse trainer with a depth of knowledge developed from over 50 years in the horse industry. Myers has been a popular clinician at multiple expos in the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Myers’ Ride-InSync methods as well as clinic and training services available, visit www.tmtrainingcenter.com or on Facebook.
Knox County Horse Park
Join us for the Remaining Shows
PRESIDENT, Lauren Smith
VICE PRESIDENTS, Travis Ross and Claude Robinson
TREASURER, Pam Niner
SECRETARY, Madisyn Weekley
PHONE, 740/398-5366 (call or text) WEBSITE, knoxcountyhorsepark.mypixieset.com
by Anna Chadwick
The monthly meeting is held the second Monday of the month at the Horse Park Shelter during summer.
Fairs and summer are over. Come and enjoy time with us during the balance of this years schedule and starting to look at next year. All the fun shows start at 9:30 a.m.; with the showmanship classes first and contesting to start at 1 p.m.
SEPTEMBER 6: Campout at the Campground
SEPTEMBER 20: High point show
OCTOBER 11: Poker Run: supporting Breast Cancer
Awareness; registration starts 10 a.m; with last horse out by 11.30 a.m. 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.
If you would like to host a show, we have available weekends open for people to rent the arena. We would like to thank the following sponsors for the 2025 fun show season: Danville Harness and Shoe, Two Acre Farm and Feed Supply, Strong Land Maintenance, Cosby Heating and Cooling, Travis and Sue Ross, Scarlet Acres, Red Maple Farm, Healthy Center Massage, Therapy and Acupuncture. The open house held August 7 was successful. We enjoyed a potluck at 7:30 p.m. and the ride in the moonlight from 9-10 p.m. The moonlight ride was attended by at least 15 riders.
Western Reserve Carriage Association Fun Summer for WRCA Members
Many of our members have taken advantage of offerings from other venues. Michigan Horse Drawn Vehicle had a pleasure drive in early June. Lorenzo and Orleton are two pleasure shows found in eastern US. And of course our Medina show in July aligned with GLADS. August 9 there was a pleasure drive at Carlisle. Due to heat, we only had three turnouts; Mary Thomas with Becca Rich, Barbara King and Dan Speese, and Cathy Rhoades. Thanks to Michele Steven and Pam Bassick for your companionship and great food!
At this writing we have two more drives left: Swine Creek August 24 and Observatory Park September 28.
Our end of year event is November 16 at Brushwood Lodge. If you have any ideas for a speaker or entertainment, please reach out. The club will provide main dishes and beverages along with place settings. As always we will have some great door prizes from your Big Dee Bucks. The National Drive is coming up October 7-12 at Hoosier Horse Park. This is a great venue to get your horse some exposure and the opportunity for lessons with experienced clinicians. It is not limited to driving; riding is also welcomed. Food, fun, friends! Check out their website for registration and schedules. Carlisle open driving dates September 2, September 6, September 11, September 14, October 2, October 5, October 7, and October 11.
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.
Fall Round Up has $1500 Guaranteed Money
PRESIDENT, Gale Davis VICE PRESIDENTS, Marc Beck, Cinda Bame SECRETARY, Jeremy Reed TREASURER, Eric Haudenschield WEBSITE, www.owha.org
Hello Corral readers! Ohio Western Horse Association (OWHA) hopes that you are out there and enjoying the summer options and hitting your local open show circuits.
OWHA held their monthly board meeting on August 7. The board heard a report about our scholarship award winners.
Plans for our annual banquet are starting to happen to award scholarships for college students as well as division award winners for our summer shows. Final plans were also discussed for the Board and Directors Show in Ada, Ohio, on August 10. We then moved on to talking about the Fall Round Up that will be held in Mt. Gilead on September 19-21. Over $1500 have been added for guaranteed money for our annual Fall Round Up. How exciting!
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’d love to have you be a part of OWHA.
Buckeye Equestrian Association
Supporting the First Polo Match for United Way
PRESIDENT, Patricia Andio
VICE PRESIDENT, Susan Smith-Gordan
SECRETARY, Jennifer Milliner
TREASURER, Sally Kish
FACEBOOK, Buckeye Equestrian Association
On August 2 Buckeye Equestrian Association attended the first annual Polo Match for United Way. Andrea and Michael Groubert own Willowbrook Polo Farms on South Turner Road, Canfield, and they not only train polo horses but also play the game. It was their idea to bring Polo back to the Mahoning Valley. It was a beautiful day, sunny with a nice breeze. It was open to
the public as well as supporters who purchased tents with tables and chairs that were set up right in front of the polo field. They had food trucks and T-shirts for sale. Attendees could also bring their own beverages and food.
The Grouberts have always been supporters of Buckeye so we
Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club
wanted to support their event. Some of us had never seen a polo match. At the start of the match they gave a demonstration of Polo for the people new to Polo. The good news is they plan on making
It’s a Wrap for the 2025 Show Season
this an annual event. It was very well attended and the crowd was enthusiastic.
For the love of horses and riders.
PRESIDENT, Emily Scott
VICE PRESIDENT, Brett Hammersmith
SECRETARY, Amy Cluse
TREASURER, Terri Rafeld
EMAIL, paintandplaininfo@yahoo.com
WEBSITE, ashlandpaintandplain.com
by Taylor Wheaton
That’s a wrap for the 2025 Ashland Paint & Plain Show Series! I’d to thank our 2025 gold sponsors: Stateline Tack, Berry’s
Blacksmithing Service, Wooster Color Point, HoldIt Equestrian, Harrison Trailers, Hometown Dental Seville, T&E Performance Horses, Hammersmith Farms, and Holcombs Classic Popcorn.
Banquet information to follow where our year end awards will be given out! Thank you for a great season!
~Sally Kish
PRESIDENT, Dwayne Joyner
VICE PRESIDENT, Tony Ruper
SECRETARY, Kelsey Gibson
TREASURER, Mark Maxwell
EMAIL, northernohiooutlawsinfo@ gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.nooutlaws.com
The Ohio State Shoot sponsored by Kiko Meats is in the books. The flag presentation was done by the Northern Ohio Outlaws board of directors. Joyce Higgins sponsored a best outfit contest voted on by their fellow shooters. The winners were Mens, Kenny Pence; Ladies, Colleen Kelly; Wranglers, Riley Weisel; Cavalry, James Higgins.
The move ups were: Jayme Stiglish from L2 to L3; Chrissy Ramsey from L5 to L6; Cale Staver from M2 to M3.
SATURDAY RESULTS
WRANGLER: Open, Paisley Zugga; Wrangler Limited, Tesen Hennebert Jr.
CAVALRY: Drew Wallace.
SHOTGUN: Ladies Open, Courtney Eberle; Ladies Limited, Leanne Louvie;
Ohio State Shoot Results
Mens Open, Drew Wallace; Mens Limited, Joseph Anderson.
RIFLE: Ladies Open, Amanda Rinz; Mens Limited, Joseph Anderson; Mens Open, Drew Wallace.
OVERALL COWBOY, Jared Penley
OVERALL COWGIRL, Cara Penley
RESERVE COWBOY, Drew Wallace
RESERVE COWGIRL, Chrissy Ramsey
After a wonderful meal provided by Kiko Meats and the awards ceremony, Pam and Alan Cornett held the dogs races. Followed by games for everyone.
The next day we had the Sunday Cool Down shoot. John Truman aka ‘Buckeye Johnny’ lead the wranglers in the flag presentation. John then started the shoot borrowing Lynn Bussell’s good horse Cole. It was wonderful to see an almost 90 year old can still shoot with the best of them.
The move ups on Sunday were Travis Gibson M2-M3; Jeanette Black SL4-SL5.
SUNDAY RESULTS
WRANGLER: Limited, Tesen Hennbert Jr.; Open, Lane Bushmire.
MENS OVERALL AND OVERALL
OVERALL, Drew Wallace
RESERVE MENS, Brad Bandy
OVERALL LADIES, Chrissy Ramsey
RESERVE LADIES, Kierstin Fritsch
We would like to give a shout out to Brad Bandy for coming in from Kansas to shoot with us.
On August 2-3 we held our Outlaws and Bandits shoots. With no move ups on Saturday.
WRANGLER: Limited, Tesen Hennebert Jr.; Open wrangler, Kamille Huff
OVERALL OVERALL COWGIRL AND OVERALL COWGIRL, Courtney Eberle
DOG RACE WINNERS
JUNE: Small dog, Lane Bushmire and Tito; Large dog, Jayne Maxwell and Sadie; Champion Sadie.
JULY: Small dog, Lane Bushmire and Tito; Large dog, Courtney Eberle and Trigger; Champion Trigger.
AUGUST: Small dog, Lane Bushmire and Tito; Large dog, Courtney Eberle and Trigger; Champion Tito.
Saltwell Western Store is now one of our sponsors thank you.
OVERALL COWBOY, Christopher Himes RESERVE COWBOY, Justin Carroll
John, Lynn and Coal.
Jimm and Brad, rough riders.
The Cowboy Perseverance Ranch
From The Inside Out
by Rob and Tanya Corzatt
One day in mid-May Rob and I got up early to begin our morning feed routine. We begin with setting all the grain and then I go to the back gate of our arena to let the lesson herd in from the sacrifice lot. They anxiously wait for me to open the gate so they can come in for their grain. As I open the gate, I hold up a dressage stick to cue the herd to wait so they don’t rush past me. Once I lower the stick and go off to the side they are allowed to come in. It works very well. On this particular morning, one of the horses, Eli, who is one of the alpha horses, decided to be a little more impatient which led to an unfortunate mishap. Eli decided that he didn’t want to come in calmly and he became extra excited. With pent up energy he bolted past me, veering off to one side to avoid me, and proceeded to catch a 12’ corral panel with his shoulder. The corral panel was blocking an opening between the fence and our barn.
He hit it with such force that it made an extremely loud clammer and bent the panel in half. Once in the barn all the horses go to the front of the arena where we have gates separating the arena from the stalls. I go through the same process of holding up the dressage stick, open the gate, wait for them to continue to stand quietly as I back out of the way, then lower the stick to cue them to enter. Eli and the other alpha horse typically trot in first. The rest of them follow close behind and all go to their respective stalls. But on this particular morning, Eli stayed in the middle of the arena as the rest of the herd entered and was standing there shaking his head. This behavior was very abnormal, which was not a good sign. After the herd was in their stalls Rob and I shut all their doors, but Eli still proceeded to stand in the middle of the arena. When I went out to check on him, I immediately saw blood coming out of his left shoulder from a concerning 2” gash that I could tell was going to need
stitches. I led him into his stall, took a photo of his wound and proceeded to send it to our vet and his owner. The vet immediately contacted me back and made us her first stop that morning. She confirmed what I thought and began to stitch him up. She first stitched the muscle and skin from the inside then stapled him back together on the outside. It all went relatively smoothly with the help of that wonderful sedation medicine. Let the healing begin, so we thought. But it didn’t end up to be that simple.
experienced the need for that type of healing. Jonah, Job, King David, the woman at the well, Rahab and Mary Magdalene. In Mark 5:28-34 Jesus healed the bleeding woman. She had suffered for 12 years. It says, “because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes I will be healed.” Immediately her bleeding stopped, and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.
At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked. “Who touched my clothes?” “You see the people crowding against you, “his disciples answered, “and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?”
Eli’s owner got a shoulder guard to help protect the sutures from him licking at it and protect him from flies. Each day the injury began to swell, and fluid built up so much that it left a path that led down under his barrel. Then I noticed there was a small amount of puss starting to come out of a tiny pinhole that developed at the top of the staples. We got him on antibiotics, ice and pain relievers. The puss was accumulating quickly and causing the staples to come apart at the top of his injury. When consulting our vet, she instructed me to push on the infected area to see if we could get the puss to express out. We had success! The hole broke open more, the puss shot out of the hole as if there was a small hose on the inside that was turned on. It kept coming out in streams. I had to do this for quite a few days, twice a day, until we weren’t able to express as much. Each day there was less. It seemed we were nearing the end. Or were we?
Not long after that all the staples ended up coming out by themselves. The staples were supposed to stay in for 10 to 14 days, but they only lasted a week. There was a very large hole exposed when the staples came out. Our vet came out again to examine the site and said it actually looked good but now we needed to take a hose and flush the wound from the inside out. Eli was not a big fan of this so with help I flushed it daily for about a week. Each day I was actually very amazed at how quickly the injury site began to heal and close. This had been an amazing process and inspired the topic for this article about how we need to heal from the inside out.
There are so many Biblical examples of people who
But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. Then the woman knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” Fear, anxiety, and other difficult emotions are a normal part of our human lives. These are all things that we experience inside of us. No matter what type of distress we may experience, like the bleeding woman, we need to reach out to God. When we rely on God to flush out our wounds, we can experience the incredible healing from the inside out in order to be freed from suffering. As always, may you be blessed on your ride!
The Corzatt family owns and operates the Cowboy Perseverance Ranch (CPR) in Marengo, Ohio. CPR is a faith based operation and our mission is to build a strong foundation and relationship with our training horses and students. We are blessed to be able to provide western horsemanship lessons infused with biblical scripture to students of all ages. One student has described her time here as “CPR for the soul!” Visit our website at www.cpranch. wixsite.com/home or follow us on Facebook.
Tanya and Rob Corzatt
Flatlanders Dressage & Combined Training Association, Inc.
Demonstration of Gaits Within the Gaits
PRESIDENT, Pat Boutwell
VICE PRESIDENT, LeeAnn Kagy
TREASURER, Lisa Gross
SECRETARY, Jill Christopher
EMAIL, fdcta@aol.com
FACEBOOK, www.facebook.com/ groups/FDCTA
by Heather Bonifas
For the month of August, the Flatlanders Dressage club enjoyed their meeting at Allison Schmidbauer’s beautiful facility near Fostoria, Ohio. Thank you Allison for not only hosting but providing the club with another relevant and entertaining program. Allison did a live demonstration of ‘gaits within the gaits’ on her fabulous, 14-yearold Oldenburg gelding, Romeo As our members looked on, gathered around her outdoor arena, Allison put Romeo through the paces demonstrating the gaits within the gaits. Walk, trot, and canter are just the general terms
used for the three foundation gaits in training. Each gait can and is then explored more with collection and extension. If you look up dressage gait rules online, you would find something like this:
Rhythm: The gaits must demonstrate a regularity and tempo, which is essential for evaluating the horse’s performance.
Purity of Footfall: Gaits must show absolute purity of footfall, meaning each foot should land correctly according to the gait being performed.
Suppleness: The horse should exhibit elasticity and freedom from anxiety in its movements, which is crucial for a good performance.
Impulsion: There should be engagement and a desire to move forward, which is important for the quality of the gaits.
Collection: The horse should maintain balance and lightness of the forehand, which is achieved through proper engagement. These elements are critical for assessing the quality of gaits in dressage competitions.
Who knew that the basics could be so ‘not-basic’? As usual, Romeo performed with suppleness and grace as Allison gave the club some tips to achieve perfection on their own horses.
After the demonstration, the members moved in to the house, enjoyed a delicious carry in style meal, held the business meeting and discussed the myriad of activities each member has been (or will be shortly) engaged in.
Several of the members are enjoying the program known as the EquestriON Challenge. Becky, Allison, and Jill shared all the excitement and ribbons earned by participating in this individualized, self-paced way to expand their skills and have fun.
Their enthusiasm was so contagious another member, Margie, decided she had to join in on the challenge! Go ladies, get it!
Looking ahead, Jonna Schumway will be hosting a ridea-test event at her farm featuring Jill Jewett as the judge. The event takes place in early September. Pray for great early fall weather. Thank you in advance, Jonna! Later on in September, we may be able to squeak in a make-up day for the events that had to be postponed or cancelled this summer season.
Until next month, stay hydrated, take time for family and friends and count your blessings.
“A fabulous, revealing book that everyone in equine sports should read. I give copies to all my friends.”
—George Morris Legendary equestrian and coach
“It’s a clear, fact-based glimpse inside the toney, insular world of equestrian competition riven by wokeness.”
—Bruce Tucker Smith in AmericanThinker
—Peggy Fackrell, H/J show producer, manager and judge ORDER YOUR COPY
Commentary on USEF, SafeSport, DEI, horse industry problems, and future of equine sports in America. Available at Amazon as ebook and paperback Facebook: Off Course: the saga continues Email: offcourseusef@gmail.com
“Off Course takes on subjects other people are afraid to say out loud.”
Buckets, Troughs, and Beyond Water For Horses Part 1
Written by Sara L. Mastellar, PhD, Associate Professor and Equine Programs Coordinator at Ohio State ATI, Wooster, Ohio
Elizabeth Share, PhD, Livestock Specialist, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Haley Campbell, MS, Lecturer, Ohio State ATI, Wooster, Ohio
The following is excerpted from the factsheet ‘Water for Horses’. The full text and references, along with other resources, can be found here: https://ansci.osu. edu/extension/factsheets-0.
Water is essential to life and lack of water will kill a horse faster than lack of any other nutrient.
Sources of water and water intake
The best practice is to always have clean, fresh water available for horses whenever possible. Drinking water accounts for the greatest source of water in the horse’s diet. Other sources of water include water within feed (e.g., from grass or apples), water created from chemical reactions in the body (i.e., metabolic water), and in special cases, fluids given intravenously or subcutaneously (Figure 1.1). In cases where water availability is limited (e.g., travel or evacuation situations), knowing how much water a horse needs is helpful for planning purposes. Also, if a horse consumes much less or much more than anticipated, something could be amiss. Horses’ water needs vary greatly and are dependent upon a variety of factors. Body weight (BW) is the greatest factor in estimating water intake, and on average, an idle adult horse in thermoneutral conditions will require 50 mL/ kg BW/day (0.006 gal/lb BW/day). A typical American Quarter Horse weighing 1,100 lb (500 kg) would require 6.6 gal (25 L) per day (Cymbaluk, 2013).
Monitoring intake
sources. If a permanent location is preferred, consider a heavy use pad to mitigate mud around the water source.
Troughs must be checked daily for water level and cleaned regularly to ensure water is fresh and uncontaminated, and in cold months, free of ice. Troughs or tanks can attract wildlife, which can contaminate water, especially if wildlife drowns when unable to scale vertical sides of the trough.
The most straightforward way to monitor water intake is to pay attention to how much water your horse drinks from their bucket between refills. Some automatic waterers can be fitted with sensors that send alerts to managers. Ultimately, communication between barn staff will be key in catching when a horse has stopped drinking. If a horse has decreased water intake, dig further to discover the cause to prevent colic or other complications.
Water is the most essential, and often overlooked, nutrient in your horse’s diet.
Water provision (Buckets, troughs, and waterers)
Bucket/waterer color: In a study conducted at Ohio State ATI, horses did not demonstrate a preference for drinking out of a particular color of bucket when the buckets were not in direct sunlight (Brown, 2022). Light colored buckets can make it easier to see when the buckets need to be cleaned and dark buckets may slow algae growth by blocking/ absorbing more sunlight (Kondzior and Butarewicz, 2021).
Pasture troughs and stock tanks: Large troughs are excellent options to water horses in a pasture setting without the costs of automatic waterers. Changing the location of water sources can encourage grazing in different areas of large pastures and spread out the soil compaction associated with horses congregating around water
Automatic waterers: Automatic waterers can be a convenient method to provide water without having to drag hoses around the barn or a water tank to the field each day, as well as keeping water fluid in freezing temperatures. Automatic waterer costs include the watering unit itself, water lines, electricity, and labor costs for installment. Some waterers keep the water below the frost line until activated. Managers should ensure that horses are acclimated to this time delay. A high traffic pad surrounding automatic waterers in pastures is recommended to reduce mud. There are also automatic waterers made for individual stalls. Any leaks in the unit or horses that like to play with the waterer valve can soak bedding quickly. Many times, the rate at which a horse drinks is faster than an automatic waterer fills and horses may not wait for it to refill. Waterers that have noisy water valves or do not provide a large reservoir of water may be unappealing to the horses. Watch horses being introduced to automatic waterers to ensure that dehydration does not occur. Automatic waterers should be in good repair as electrical shorts, called stray voltage, can be a deterrent to drinking. Stray voltage can cause either the water or metal troughs to have an electric current. Always make sure to use electric wiring that meets or exceeds code for intended use. Regularly check automatic waterers and water heaters to make sure they are in good repair, the water they provide is shock free, and fire risks are minimized.
Natural water sources (ponds, streams, springs): Some pastures contain natural water features, which can be a cheap and convenient source of water. However, natural water bodies support insects,
Please
Figure 1.1: Water balance in horses and contributing factors for water input and output. Graphic by Sara L. Mastellar.
Mid Ohio Dressage Association
Dancing at the Classic
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
Wow, it has been a blazing hot summer and now it is September!
All MODA (Mid Ohio Dressage Association) members are wishing for beautiful fall weather to enjoy rides with their horses.
Under the blazing sun and heat the Mid Ohio Classic ran beautifully thanks to the hard working volunteers, dedicated competitors, generous sponsors and the lovely Brave Horse facility.
Over 100 horses and over 425 rides were held during the threeday show, July 11-13. Storms on Saturday created a few breaks in the schedule but all rides were completed. Participants also
enjoyed a Lemon Aid bar held during the annual fundraiser that benefited Not One More Vet (NOMV) an organization helping veterinarians who are struggling with work related anxiety and mental health issues. $835 were raised through raffle baskets donated by MODA members and sponsors. Thank you to the basket donors and to Andrea and Jessica Klingelhafer for
organizing and hosting the raffle. Many awards were handed out during the MODA Classic including two special awards: the Chuck Grant Perpetual award earned by Elena Golubitsky riding Duke Of Wellington and the MODA Founder’s award earned by Tracy Hamilton riding Cocoa Chanel. Congratulations to these two ladies for earning these special recognition awards that honor MODA history. See the Mid Ohio Dressage Facebook page and showsecretary.com for class results and breed organization winners.
Moving into September, MODA members will return to Brave Horse September 6-7 for the always fun East Meets West show. There will be two days of showing featuring classical and western dressage. The western dressage is WDAA recognized and both classical and western dressage are an AQHA special event for those riding Quarter Horses and seeking AQHA points. Fun classes and championship classes as well as
a team tournament will all be event highlights. See results on the Mid Ohio Facebook page and showsecretary.com, with more coverage of the event in the October Corral issue.
Now is a good time to check on your volunteer hours and sign up for more to ensure you are eligible for MODA year end awards. It will be banquet time before we know it! Also, all rotating trophies earned in 2024 will need to be returned before you can apply for 2025 awards. Enjoy the ride because every ride with our horses is a gift.
Buckets, Troughs, and Beyond
Continued from page 26
such as mosquitoes, which can carry disease. When horses, or other large livestock, drink from the water’s edge, they trample vegetation and can create mud. This soil erosion can contaminate the water and have negative environmental impacts. Consider limiting access to natural bodies of water and/or creating livestock crossings to minimize erosion. Springs and running water tend to have fewer contaminants than stagnant bodies of water (e.g., ponds, marsh).
Take-Home Message
Water is the most essential— and often overlooked—nutrient in your horse’s diet. Understanding how much water your horse needs, how to provide it safely, and how to monitor intake can make a major difference in their health, performance, and wellbeing. Whether you are using buckets, troughs, or automatic waterers, consistency and cleanliness are key. Stay tuned for part 2 of this series!
Tracy Hamilton and Cocoa Chanel. Photo credit: Reality Studios Ohio.
Elene Golubitsky and Duke Of Wellington. Photo credit: Reality Studios Ohio.
Benefit raffle for Not One More Vet. Photo credit: Reality Studios Ohio.
Last Show and Trail Ride for the Season
PRESIDENT, Tim Snapp
VICE PRESIDENT, Mark Peterson
TREASURER, Jill Davis
SECRETARY, Heather Collins
WEBSITE, www.ophc.org
by Tim Snapp
We still have one more Ohio Paint Horse Club (OPHC) show in Springfield in September!
The Ohio Paint Horse Amateur Club;s APHA and All Breed Open Show will be held at the Champions Center (outdoor covered pen) in Springfield, Ohio, September 6-7 (four judges). Adult, youth, walktrot, and ranch all breed classes, $100 all breed classes, and more! Sponsors are needed for the High Point champion awards and all breed $100 added money classes. Contact a club officer or through Facebook for more information! We will have an OPHC officers and directors meeting following the show on Saturday.
We had over 200 stalls reserved for the Buckeye Bonanza PaintO-Rama at World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio, July 26-27 with $10,000 Chrome Cash given away and 16 beautiful buckles awarded for all Hi-Point divisions! Everyone who purchased a stall was given a cool T-shirt. Man, it was a hot one, but we were able to cool off with snow cones on Saturday provided by the OPHYC! There
was a wonderful silent auction that raised nearly $1100 to offset show expenses too!
The APHA Eastern National Championship Show was held August 21-24 at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio (eight judges). More to come in the next issue.
The last OPHC Trail Ride for the season will be October 3-5 at Van Buren State Park. Open to all breeds. Ride for the day or
all weekend. Stalls or highlines, water, and electric at every site. For more information contact Elaine Fry Bennett phone/ text: 419/701-1854. To reserve camping visit reserveohio.com Look for more information about the general membership meeting in November in the next issue. Visit our website, ophc.org, or our Facebook page to stay up to date and for more information! Get out and ride!
TrailMeister
Where the Trail Teaches: Notes from Sisters Cow Camp
by Robert Eversole
The sound of hooves crunching across lava rock, ancient, black, and sunbaked, reminds you that this land remembers fire. And at the Back Country Horsemen of Oregon’s Wilderness Skills Clinic, held at Sisters Cow Camp just outside of Sisters, Oregon, I was reminded that riding through history takes more than just a steady mule beneath you.
It takes preparation, grit, and a community that rides as hard as it listens.
This wasn’t just a weekend getaway. It was a deep dive immersion into what it means to ride, camp, and live well in the backcountry.
Coffee
and Conversations
I came to teach. Sessions on practical camp setup, avoiding emergencies, and troubleshooting problems before they escalate. But as is often the case in the backcountry, I learned just as much.
I was honored to be invited as a clinician and speaker, sharing what I’ve learned about horse camping with a passionate crowd of riders, campers, and packers who live for the sound of hooves on dirt and the quiet that comes after the fire dies down. From seasoned backcountry pros to folks pitching their first tent beside a trailer, the group reminded me why I keep hauling out, dust and all, for events like this: no egos, no gatekeeping, just a shared reverence for the land, the animals, and each other.
Where the Lava Remembers
One of the standout moments was riding the Metolius-Windigo Trail. If you’ve never been on it, you owe yourself the ride. The trail weaves through towering Ponderosa pine, skirts groves of manzanita and sage, and then spills out onto surreal jumbles of ancient lava.
It’s the kind of trail that quiets you. The terrain tells stories older than roads and railroads, stories your horse hears through their feet. You don’t need narration out there. The landscape speaks for itself. No one’s checking their phones. You’re listening for your mule’s breath and the wind through the trees. Out there, presence isn’t a choice, it’s a condition.
The best lessons didn’t happen during the clinics. They happened afterward, around tailgates and campfires. Riders swapping hobbling tips, testing knots, comparing the snacks they actually eat after a hard day’s pull. This is the kind of knowledge that doesn’t show up in books. It shows up in conversations over coffee.
There’s something uniquely grounding about the people who ride out where the map blurs and the signal dies. These are the riders who know that comfort sometimes looks like a well-tied highline and a hot cup of cowboy coffee.
No Shortcuts, No Excuses
In a world that’s getting louder, faster, and more paved by the minute, events like this matter more than ever. Wilderness skills aren’t some nostalgic throwback, they’re essential tools for riding responsibly and confidently.
Knowing how to balance a pannier or set up a safe camp isn’t just good horsemanship, it’s good citizenship. These skills are the difference between a good trip and a search-and-rescue headline. And perhaps just as importantly, they reflect our respect for the animals and the places we travel through.
47th Annual Fall
Mid-Ohio Draft Horse & Carriage Sale
October 6-10, 2025
Mt. Hope Auction, Mt. Hope, OH
Catalog will be available at www.mthopeauction.com
MID-OHIO DRAFT HORSE EXPO
October 6-10 in the Event Center. Contact Paul Money: 330-473-7046
MONDAY, OCTOBER 6
1:00 PM — Cataloged Pony Sale
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7
8:00 AM — Mixed Breed Horses
1:00 PM — Special Standardbred Breeder Sale followed by Weanling/Yearling Sale
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8
Tack, Carriages, Field Equipment & Antiques 6:00 PM — Haflingers
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9
8:00 AM — Cataloged Percheron Sale followed by cataloged Pulling Bred Belgians
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10
8:00 AM — Cataloged Belgians followed by Uncataloged Draft & Crossbred Horses
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11
7:30 AM — Regular Horse Sale 1:00 PM — Riding Horse & Pony Sale
2025 Spring Highlights
Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros
PRESIDENT, R. David Davis
TREASURER, Jessica Sheets
SECRETARY, Nancy Virzi
EMAIL, nvirzi@yahoo.com
WEBSITE, www.lakeerievaqueros.net
by Nancy Virzi (Go Forward Virzi)
The July shoot is history. There was not a big turnout, but we had a lot of fun. We saw some old friends and made some new friends.
Sylvio Pellegrino has started the Two Person Posse. It takes two random shooters and puts them together as a team. Their combined times makes them either a winner or a loser. It was a lot of fun watching the competition. The winner taking the whole pot. We got to use some of the new course patterns; some are quite challenging. It is always interesting to see the different ways riders choose to attack the patterns. Sometimes trying to
Two Person Posse
save time doesn’t always turn out to be the best way. Congratulations to all from the July shoot.
JULY SATURDAY RESULTS
OVERALL OVERALL: Melissa Shaner
RESERVE OVERALL: Jared Penly
OVERALL COWBOY: Jared Penly
RESERVE COWBOY: Ed Haefner
OVERALL SR. COWGIRL: Cheri Stady
RES. SENIOR COWGIRL: Colleen Kelly
OVERALL SR. COWBOY: Ralph Soehnlen
RES. OVERALL SR. COWBOY: Denis Cooper
SATURDAY CLASS WINNERS
M6 Jared Penly, M5 Ralphie Soehnlen, M4 Christopher Himes, M3 Sylvio Pellegrino, M2 Ed Haefner, Sr M6
Soehnlen, SM1 Denis Cooper, L6 Carla Rae Spackman, L5 Emily Carroll, L4 Melissa Shaner, L3 Stephanie Berry, L2 Maria Haefner, L1 Natalie Sewell, Sr L5 Colleen Kelly, SrL4 Cheri Stady, SrL1 Terry Robb.
JULY SUNDAY RESULTS
OVERALL OVERALL: Brad Bandy
RESERVE OVERALL: Chris Himes
OVERALL COWBOY: Brad Bandy
RESERVE COWBOY: Chris Himes
OVERALL COWGIRL: Carla Rae Spackman
RESERVE COWGIRL: Cara Penly
OVERALL SR COWBOY: Chuck Cline
RESERVE SR COWBOY: Denis Cooper
OVERALL SR COWGIRL: Amie Cline
RESERVE SR COWGIRL: Cheri Stady
SUNDAY CLASS WINNERS
M6 Brad Bandy, M4 Chris Himes, M3
Sylvio Pelegrino, M2 Ed Haefner, L6 Carla Rae Spackman, L4 Melissa Shaner, L3 Stephanie Berry, L1 Dallas Acker, Sr M2 Chuck Cline, Sr M1 Denis Cooper, Sr L5 Colleen Kelly, Sr L4 Cheri Stady, Sr L3 Amie Cline, Sr L1 Terri Robb.
Our next shoot was August 16 and 17.
Thank you to our great sponsors: Big Dees Tack and Vet, Siracki Realty, Kiko Meats, Parkside Trailer Sales and Service, The Horsemen’s Corral, Curly’s Ammo, Equine Bodyworks, Altmeyer Western Wear and Trailer Sales, Jefferson Milling. Hope to see you all runnin’ and gunnin’!
Where the Trail Teaches
Continued from page 32
Backcountry riding doesn’t come with shortcuts. That’s the point. The trail tests your preparation and rewards your patience. It doesn’t care about likes or follows. It cares whether your cinch holds and your horse stays calm when the wind shifts.
A Tip of the Hat to BCHO
My thanks to the folks at Back Country Horsemen of Oregon for keeping this clinic about what really matters, education, dirtearned wisdom, and community. Sisters Cow Camp, once a working cow camp, now serves as a hub for equine adventurers who want a little less pavement and a lot more sky.
If you haven’t been, go. Whether for a day ride or a clinic weekend, it’s the kind of place where time slows down, the stars shine a little brighter, and the air smells like pine and possibility.
Looking Back to Look Ahead
As I hauled out of camp, trailer coated in volcanic grit, mule a little more trail-tested, I found myself thinking about what this kind of weekend really gives us.
Yes, it’s about skills. But it’s also about confidence. It’s about knowing you can navigate the unknown.
It’s about helping the next rider feel ready to take that unmarked trail. It’s about learning how to set up a secure camp and how to leave no trace when you move on. But more than anything, it’s about the people. This looseknit, dust-covered, laugh-tooloud group who understands that ‘wilderness’ isn’t just a place. It’s a mindset. One built on humility, respect, and a willingness to learn. Wilderness doesn’t just test you. It changes you. It pares things down to what matters: a good animal, a tight knot, and people who’ll ride the rough parts with you.
Here’s to more trails, more campfires, and more dirt under the hooves. See you out there!
Want to explore more about wilderness horse camping, trailtested gear, and find the world’s largest guide to equine camps and trails? Visit me at www. TrailMeister.com, or pick up my best-selling book, The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping, available now on Amazon.
Ralph
Kylie Kitzmiller
Christ Pellegrino
Ralphie Soehnlen
WHY BUY FROM HARRISON TRAILERS
Ohio High School Rodeo Association
Membership Portal Open for 2025-2026 Season
NATIONAL DIRECTOR, Nikki McCarty
PRESIDENT, Chelsea Schoch
SECRETARY, Holly Rowe
PHONE, 614-432-0177
WEBSITE, www.ohiohighschoolrodeo.org
by Abigail Nisonger
That’s a wrap on the 2024–2025 season for the Ohio High School and Junior High Rodeo team! This season was filled with tough competition, pushing each and every athlete to strive for their best. In doing so, several athletes rose to the top, and thanks to their incredible talent and achievements!
It’s been a busy month for the high school kids! They competed in Rock Springs, Wyoming, from July 13-19. First off we want to congratulate all the Ohio kids for representing our state well. We had 30 Ohio contestants compete. Our Queen Daphne Lanctot did
an amazing job of representing team Ohio!
Congratulations to our Ohio performance winners, bull rider Henry Pinnick for winning the 2nd performance and being 14th in the first go, having some tough luck in the second go but still ending up 22nd in the average. Also Elvis Bishop and Wyatt Asbury for winning the 11th performance
and ending up 23rd in the average for the team roping!
With that being said, all the Ohio members are resting up for the new season to begin. We’re always looking forward to seeing everyone at the first 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!
Team Ohio in Rock Springs, Wyoming.
Our 2025-26 Queen, Daphne Lanctot at the NHSFR talent show!
PRESIDENT, Kelly Chapman
VICE PRESIDENT, Stephanie Tarr
SECRETARY, Justin Miller
TREASURER, Susan Croft
EMAIL, premiermountntrail@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.premiermountntrail.com
by Madison Eshelman
Keep Earning RIDE Hours
It is always a good time to keep earning RIDE hours for the program. With just a couple of months left in the season, every
As we head into September, the days grow cooler, the leaves start to turn, and the autumn feel we all love is starting to return. Premier Mount N Trail is ready to make the most of the end of the season with upcoming shows to ride, connect, and enjoy the beauty of fall together!
time you work or play with your horse, those hours can be counted. Be sure to keep track of those hours!
Want to know when our next shows are happening? Find our flyer printed in this magazine
with the show dates for the rest of the show season! Also, keep an eye on our Facebook page for the latest event updates and new posts made weekly.
Hello saddle club members and friends. All I can say is it has either been very rainy or very hot! The shows have been well attended in spite of the weather. We still have more shows and events to come.
The Board is working on some fundraising ideas.
The WCSC Fun show at the Wayne County Fair is on again.
Also again an evening fun show. Reminder. If you are a saddle club member you can ride the trails and work your horse on the show grounds anytime. There are closed days before a show so the tractor man or woman can prepare the ring. Check the upcoming show dates. Camping is permitted but notice should be given so the Board knows you will be on the grounds. Keep in mind horse shows are priority to all else. Come enjoy the small wonder in Wayne County.
All your elected Board members work hard to create events for the members. Thank them when you see them in attendance. It is always good to hear. Also ideas, suggestions, feedback are welcome.
• 8 year Buckskin Stallion by HF Mobster, out of daughter of Jacks Electric Spark
Corral Calendar
DISCLAIMER: The Horsemen’s Corral has made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this calendar of events. However, the information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. The Corral does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained herein. Where possible, event contact information is provided. Please “Call before you haul”.
SEPTEMBER 2025
SEPT. 3-6 — Rocky Mountain Horse Association International Grand Championships, Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington, KY. FMI: www.rmhorse.com
SEPT. 4 — Treharne’s Training Center Thursday Night Jackpots, 49053 Fredricktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-692-1271
SEPT. 5 — Fast Times Fridays Series Open Horse Show, Madison County Fairgrounds Indoor Arena, 3237 Old Irvine Rd., Richmond, KY. FMI: Ronnie, 859-771-3388
SEPT. 5-7 — Ranch Horse Association of Michigan Show, Berrien County Youth Fairgrounds, 9122 US Hwy. 31, Berrien Springs, MI. FMI: www.miranchhorse.com
SEPT. 5-14 — Michigan Trail Rider Association September Ride, Stoney Creek Trail Camp, Afton, MI. FMI: mtra.office@ gmail.com, www.mtra.org
SEPT. 6 — Equine First Aid Training, Warrior Equestrian, 6800 Denton Rd., Orient, OH. FMI: 614-214-2588
SEPT. 6 — Gibsonburg Saddle Club Speed Show, Gisbsonburg Saddle Club Saddle Grounds, 961 N. Main Street, Gibsonburg, OH. FMI: Jerry Heaps, 419-351-9716, gibsonburgsaddleclub@gmail.com, https://gibsonburgsaddleclub.org
SEPT. 6 — SAGA Farm Schooling Show Series, Morrow County Fairgrounds, 195 S. Main St., Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: 419-5641205, sagasporthorses@gmail.com
SEPT. 6 — Southern Kentucky Team Penning Association Show, 10:30 a.m., WKU L.D. Brown Ag Expo Center, 406 Elrod Rd., Bowling Green, KY. FMI: Greg, 270646-8495
SEPT. 6 — Kentuckiana Ranch Horse Association Show, Shelby County Fairgrounds, 1513 Midland Trail, Shelbyville, KY. FMI: kentuckianaranchhorse.weebly.com
SEPT. 6 — New Covenant FFA Purchase Region Horse Show, Wranglers Riding Club, 3385 State Highway 80 E., Murray, KY. FMI: newcovenantffa@gmail.com
SEPT. 6 — Cow Horse Show, 2 p.m., Davis Ranch Training & Event Center, 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: Dave, 812-620-5707
SEPT. 6 — Circle X Ranch Open Show, 10 a.m., 818 W. 250 N., Winchester, IN. FMI: 317-868-6011
SEPT. 6-7 — OPHC Amateur Club Show, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: ohiophc@gmail.com, ophc.org
SEPT. 6-7 — Premier Mount N Trail Obstacle Competition Series, Phoenix on Killian, Killian Rd., Akron, OH. FMI: www. premiermountntrail.com
Buckeye Mini Horse, Donkey, Pony & Horse Mixed Auction
SEPT. 6-7 — Mid Ohio Dressage Association East Meets West Schooling Show, Brave Horse Ohio, 1029 S. County Line Rd. NW, Johnstown, OH. FMI: midohiodressage@ gmail.com, www.midohiodressage.com, showsecretary.com
SEPT. 6-7 — Ponies of America, Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 South Franklin St., Eaton, OH. FMI: 937-603-2197, https:// www.facebook.com/bullenequestriancenter
SEPT. 6-7 — Central West Virginia Mule and Donkey Show, Holly Gray Park, Sutton, WV. FMI: 304-532-5206, WVCentralMule@ gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/ WVMuleandDonkeyShow
SEPT. 7 — Steubenville Saddle Club Horse Show, 9 a.m., 8675 State Route 152, Richmond, OH. FMI: https://www. facebook.com/SteubenvilleSaddleClub
SEPT. 7 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812447-9579
SEPT. 8 — BBR Monday Night Jackpot, The Show Arena, 1640 CR B, Swanton, OH. FMI: 419-290-3700, theshowarena@yahoo.com
SEPT. 12 — Cross Country Saddle Club 2025 Buckle Series, 96 Finey Rd., Glasgow, KY. FMI: Brianna, 270-590-3104
SEPT. 12-14 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by Ashland County, Mohican State Forest, OH. FMI: Tim Tuttle, 419-5121216, timtuttle59@yahoo.com, https:// ohconline.com/
SEPT. 14 — Lawrence County Horseman’s Association Show, 1 p.m., 475 Commerce Drive, Ironton, OH. FMI: 304-360-0013
SEPT. 14 — Indiana Miniature Equine Club Show, 10 a.m., Hendricks County Fairgrounds Horse Arena & Barn, Danville, IN. FMI: Lori Benge, 317-289-4284, Lori. Benge25@yahoo.com, www.imecnews.com
SEPT. 14 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812447-9579
SEPT. 18 — BBR Thursday Night Jackpot, The Show Arena, 1640 CR B, Swanton, OH. FMI: Joe, 419-290-3700, theshowarena@ yahoo.com
SEPT. 18 — Treharne’s Training Center Thursday Night Jackpots, 49053 Fredricktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-692-1271
SEPT. 19-20 — Iron Horse Endurance Ride, Elkins Creek Horse Camp, Pedro, OH. FMI: Mollie Smith, 513-315-5907, mkrumlaw@ webcincy.com, www.oaats.org
SEPT. 19-20 — Mid-Eastern Farriers Association 2025 Annual Competition and Clinic, Hocking College, 3301 Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH. FMI: Levi Runnion, 740-255-2375
SEPT. 19-21 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by NW Region, Van Buren State Park, OH. FMI: Al Sidell, 419-680-2036, sidellandco@ yahoo.com, https://ohconline.com/
SEPT. 19-21 — Mid Ohio Marauders Year End Shoot, Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: 740-2067214, www.midohiomarauders.com
SEPT. 19-21 — Wayne County Saddle Club Friday Nite Fun Show & Buckle Series (19th) & The Roundup (20th & 21st), The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Leanne (fun show) 330-8444041, Stan (Roundup) 330-607-5206, waynecountysaddleclub.com
SEPT. 19-21 — OWHA Fall Round Up Open Show, Morrow County Fairgrounds, Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: Ashley, 740360-6816, www.facebook.com/ ohiowesternhorseassociation
SEPT. 13 — Fall Trail Ride, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 4075 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY. FMI: Kentucky Horse Park Foundation, 859255-5727, khpfoundation.org
SEPT. 20 — 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
SEPT. 20 — Dusty Britches Farmer’s Tan Gymkhana, 9 a.m., Miami County Fairgrounds, 650 N. County Rd. 25-A, Troy, OH. FMI: dustybritchesequestrian@gmail. com
SEPT. 20 — Davis Ranch Open Horse Show, 10 a.m., 385 East U.S. Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: David Davis, 812-6205707, dave@daviddavishorsemanship.com
SEPT. 20 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812447-9579
SEPT. 20 — Venango County Open Fun and Pleasure Horse Show, Venango County Fairgrounds Horse Barn, 867 Mercer Rd., Franklin, PA. FMI: Jessica, 814-573-6638
SEPT. 20 — Just A Small Town Ranch Fun Show, 10 a.m., 297 Bobb Road, Middleburg, PA. FMI: Becky Bobb, 570-765-1610, https://www.facebook.com/ justasmalltownranch
SEPT. 20-21 — Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros Autumn Trail I & II, Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, 107 Poplar St., Jefferson, OH. FMI: 330-719-3290, www. lakeerievaqueros.net
SEPT. 20-21 — Jec Aristotle Ballou Equine Fitness and Performance Clinic, Sand Hill Stable, Mantua, OH. FMI: horseofadifferentcolor.org
SEPT. 20-21 — INPHC Freedom Reins & All Breed Invitational, Jasper County Fairgrounds, Rensselaer, IN. FMI: www. inphc.club
SEPT. 21 — Massillon Saddle Club Contesting Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
SEPT. 25 — BBR Thursday Night Jackpot, The Show Arena, 1640 CR B, Swanton, OH. FMI: Joe, 419-290-3700, theshowarena@ yahoo.com
SEPT. 25-28 — Tough Enough To Wear Pink Horse Show, 8 a.m., Champions Center, 4122 Laybourne Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: Kay, 740-606-7640, www.tetwphs.com
SEPT. 26-27 — Madison County Equine Committee Open Horse Show Series/Tack Sale, 205 Elem Street, London, OH. FMI: Morgan Krebs, 740-506-1429
SEPT. 26-27 — LBL/Region 14 AHA 50 Endurance Ride, Land Between the Lakes Recreational Area, Golden Pond, KY. FMI: Eric Beene, 901-647-5793, 5windsranch@ aol.com, www.oaats.org
SEPT. 26-28 — OHC State Trail Ride hosted by Cuyahoga, Medina & Summit County OHC Chapters, Cleveland Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation Polo Field, Chagrin Falls, OH. FMI: Joani Hedderick, 330-730-4652, joani.hedderick@gmail. com, https://ohconline.com/
SEPT. 26-28 — Western Pennsylvania Mule & Donkey Days (26-28th) & 1st Annual Western Pennsylvania Mule & Donkey Show (27-28th), WPQHA Show Grounds, 3670 Harlansburg Rd., Harlansburg, PA. FMI: Brittany, 724-854-2650, https://www. facebook.com/WPAmuleanddonkeydays
SEPT. 27 — Wayne County Saddle Club Open Contest Show, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Jamie Carlisle, 330-933-3741, waynecountysaddleclub.com
SEPT. 27 — OVTPA Sorting, Treharne Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown/ Clarkson Rd., Negly, OH. FMI: John May, 814-397-3265
SEPT. 27 — Large Animal Auction, BLT Livestock Auction, 19340 Raymond Rd., Marysville, OH. FMI: Tom, 937-5370910, bltlivestockauction@gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100057160642514
SEPT. 27-28 — Northern Ohio Outlaw Shoot, Wayne County Fairgrounds, Wooster, OH. FMI: northernohiooutlawsinfo@gmail.com, www.nooutlaws.com
SEPT. 27-28 — Battle In The Arena, The Show Arena, 1640 Co. Rd. B, Swanton, OH. FMI: 419-290-3700, theshowarena@ yahoo.com, theshowarena.com
SEPT. 27-28 — Team Roping, Breakaway, Barrel Racing Buckle Series, 12 p.m., Tuff Creek, 11502 S 100 W, Flat Rock, IN. FMI: Joe, 812-447-9579
SEPT. 27-28 — Clay County 4H Open Show, Clay County Fairgrounds, 6659 State Road 59, Brazil, IN. FMI: Travis, 812-605-3201
SEPT. 27-OCT. 26 — All American Quarter Horse Congress, Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. FMI: www. quarterhorsecongress.com
SEPT. 28 — Massillon Saddle Club Fun Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, massillonsaddleclub.org
SEPT. 28 — Premier Mount N Trail Obstacle Competition Series, Kal-Val Saddle Club, 9853 S. 34th St., Scotts, MI. FMI: www. premiermountntrail.com
SEPT. 29 — BBR Monday Night Jackpot, The Show Arena, 1640 CR B, Swanton, OH. FMI: Joe, 419-290-3700, theshowarena@ yahoo.com
SEPT. 29-OCT. 4 — All American Quarter Horse Congress Cutting, Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 South Franklin St., Eaton, OH. FMI: Kaylee, 937-603-2197, https://www. facebook.com/bullenequestriancenter
SEPT. 30-OCT. 5 — RSTPA National Finals, Garwood Arena, Columbiana, OH. FMI: Paul Pilnik, 516-639-6666
OCTOBER 2025
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. 3-5 — Ohio Paint Horse Club Trail Ride, Van Buren State Park, Van Buren, OH. FMI: Elaine Fry Bennett, 419-7011854, 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: Donn Buckingham, 937-417-4358, donnb@bright.net, prebleohc.com
OCT. 4 — Fun Show, 10 a.m., 696 Bedford Rd. SE, Brookfield, OH. FMI: brookfieldsaddleclub@yahoo.com
OCT. 4 — Circle X Ranch Open Show, 10 a.m., 818 W. 250 N., Winchester, IN. FMI: 317-868-6011
Please turn to page 46
Corral Calendar
Continued from page 44
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 — 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 Bobb, 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. 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, 330-7630905, schrocksauctioneering@gmail.com
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 — 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: Greg, 270646-8495
OCT. 11 — Fall Classic Catalog Horse Sale, Farmers & Ranchers Livestock Commission Company, Inc., Salina, KS. FMI: 785-8250211, www.fandrlive.com
OCT. 11-12 — Oak Leaf Run Distance Endurance Ride, Silver Creek Park, Hamilton, MI. FMI: Barb Kurti, 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, 1640 CR B, Swanton, OH. FMI: 419-290-3700, 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. 17-19 — Cowboy Fall Classic - 1st Ohio Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Bullen Equestrian Center, 722 South Franklin St., Eaton, OH. FMI: 937-603-2197, https:// www.facebook.com/bullenequestriancenter
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, 9 a.m., Miami County Fairgrounds, 650 N. County Rd. 25-A, Troy, OH. FMI: dustybritchesequestrian@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. 18 — Spooky Trail Ride, 10:30 a.m., 3558 White Oak Rd., London, KY. FMI: Rustling Pines Campground, 606-6574949, info@rustlingpinesky.com
OCT. 18-19 — East Coast Outlaws Shoot, Keystone Horse Center, Bloomsburg, PA. FMI: ecoshooters@gmail.com, eastcoastoutlaws.com
OCT. 19 — Wayne County Saddle Club Sunday Fun Show, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Rachael Adamson, 419-606-9712, waynecountysaddleclub.com
Please turn to page 48
• *23 blue roan filly granddaughter of Streak of Fling - ranching heritage F&R, Royal Crown Roping eligible
• 21 sorrel gelding grandson of Playgun - gentle, ranch, started heading
• 22 red roan mare granddaughter of Grays Starlight- started cutter
• 19 sorrel mare by Paddy Socks - heel horse, ranch
• 23 red roan mare - granddaughter of Once In a Blu Boon - Futurity eligible
• 19 dun gelding grandson of Fair fax Jay - ranch broke
• 20 dun gelding grandson of Fair fax Jay - ranch broke
• 20 gray mare granddaughter of Streak of Fling - broodmare broke to ride
• 22 bay gelding grandson of Paddys Irish Whiskey - well started
• 22 palomino gelding by grandson of Shining Spark - used on the ranch
• 10 gray mare granddaughter of Smart Mate - in foal to son of Highbrow Cat
• 19 red roan mare by Royal CD- in foal to Malice In Chains
• 22 bay gelding grandson of Streak of Fling
• 16 grullo gelding by Ranger Cookie
• 22 bay gelding grandson of Shooter Cat - ranch horse
• 16 buckskin gelding grandson of Sun Frost - head horse
• 20 black gelding double bred Two Eyed Red Buck - team rope
• 22 bay gelding grandson of Corona Cartel - ranch horse
• 23 sorrel mare granddaughter of Metallic Malice - futurity eligible
Selling 250 baby colts and yearlings representing great bloodlines like: Smart Chic Olena, Peptoboonsmal, Dash Ta Fame, Dash For Cash, High Brow Cat, Playgun, Docs Hickor y, Docs Oak, Paddys Irish Whiskey, Sophisticated Cat, Shining Spark, Metalic Cat, Dual Pep just to name a few
Black Swamp Driving Club
Two Drives Remaining in 2025
PRESIDENT, Julie Emmons
VICE PRESIDENT, Roger Higgins, Jr.
TREASURER/SECRETARY, Susan Murray
CORRAL REPORTER, Sharon Hayhurst
FACEBOOK,
https://www.facebook.com/ groups/121257701223196
Greetings everyone! I am doing the article for Sharon, she is on a great vacation. I hope she is taking lots of pictures to share.
Here is a list of remaining events for the club.
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: Emmons and Owen’s Halloween drive, potluck
at noon. This drive location is France Lake near Kenton, Ohio. This is a nice drive location as well. Dressing up for Halloween is always fun.
NOVEMBER 8: Annual banquet, located at the Good Hope Lutheran Church in Arlington, Ohio. Potluck as always, but I don’t have any information on the time. We will get that for the next issue.
The club had a great time at the Ice Cream Social held at the Wyandot Historical Society Museum. I had my 1893 McMurray road cart on exhibit, and Julie Emmons had the carriage rides. It was a great time until the weather changed and we closed early due to a thunderstorm. The food was good and the ice cream with toppings was delicious! The Upper Sandusky Community band had an hour long music presentation, it was truly amazing!
This is an 1893 McMurray road cart made in Marion. Ohio. It was on display in Upper Sandusky at the Ice Cream Social by Roger Higgins Jr.
This year’s events are winding down, but we still have events coming up that will be fun for all of us. If you have any questions, photos, or news feel free to reach out to any club officer or contact Sharon our reporter. Club members please be thinking
about how you would like 2026 to be for the BSDC. Members make the club a success.
We hope everyone had a good summer, and wishing everyone a great autumn season!
~Roger
Higgins Jr.
Corral Calendar
Continued from page 46
OCT. 25 — Impressive 104 Acre Farm Live Auction w/Online Bidding, 11 a.m. FMI: Andy White, 419-651-2152, https://www. res.bid/
OCT. 25 — SAGA Farm Schooling Show Series, Morrow County Fairgrounds, 195 S. Main St., Mt. Gilead, OH. FMI: 419-5641205, sagasporthorses@gmail.com
OCT. 25 — Kentuckiana Ranch Horse Association Show 2 & 3 Yr. Old Challenge, Shelby County Fairgrounds, 1513 Midland Trail, Shelbyville, KY. FMI: kentuckianaranchhorse.weebly.com
NOV. 1 — Halloween Fun Show, Knox County Horse Park, 7500 Thayer Rd., Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: kchp.mtv.ohio@ gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/ KnoxCountyHorseParkMountVernonOH
NOV. 1 — Old Geezer Endurance Ride, Caesars Creek State Park, Waynesville, OH. FMI: Tina Ponder, 937-974-4063, tina. ponder@khnetwork.org, www.oaats.org
NOV. 1 — Southern Kentucky Team Penning Association Show, 10:30 a.m., WKU L.D. Brown Ag Expo Center, 406 Elrod Rd., Bowling Green, KY. FMI: Greg, 270646-8495
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. 9 — Winter Barrels Award Series, Buckhorn Ranch Arena, 108 Simmons Lane, West Sunbury, PA. FMI: Dave, 724290-6949, buckhornoffice.108@gmail.com
Include Your Equine Event in the Corral Calender. Email your event to michelle@thehorsemenscorral.com
View From the Cheap Seats
I Need a Meeting
by Sarah Vas
I’m still struggling to disperse a healthy pile of totes full of equine miscellany as per my mention in last month’s column. I’m getting a little desperate, ready to start leaving unwanted surprises on front porches like the neighbor lady offloading her ginormous inedible zucchini babies on us. Seriously, these things are like small hippos. Anyway, I think we need a Tack Maximalists support group. I’ll be the president. No membership fee, just bring snacks and leather cleaner. How do you know if you should join our group? Come here. Sit a while. I’ve got some things to show you.
The most basic level of Tack Maximalism is the common hoarding of bits, breeches, saddle pads, and leg protection. Saddle pads in every color. Bits in every size, shape, and metal type. Bonus points if your stack of saddle pads comes with a matched set of polo wraps, splint
boots, or bell boots. Have you found the perfect pair of breeches and now have a calendar alarm set for the next sale? Do you immediately purchase three new pair when the alarm goes off?
Let’s consider the condition of said saddle pads. Do you struggle to toss a worn-out pad? Or do you have a whole stack of dead pads that the barn cat used for her last litter? Bits? What about bits for horses you don’t even have anymore? Or bits you used once even though you knew they wouldn’t work but you keep them as ‘examples’ for your lesson students? Have you sewn the blown crotch of your breeches only to have your neophyte sewing skills leave you with nothing more than a chafing lump of knotted thread and frayed fabric in your nethers but still keep those breeches tucked in the back of your closet? Why? Throw Them Away!
What about grooming tools?
Hoof picks. How many can one person wear out in a lifetime? Or frazzled, fur clogged body brushes with water-warped wooden handles? Or that experimental new shedding tool that was all the rage but couldn’t pull a hair off bathroom tile? Seriously, if I’ve never purchased any old fashion serrated shedding blades of the past, how did I end up with five of them? And why can’t I purge the too-big-formy-hand curry combs or the 17 hairbrushes or the scissors that never cut well or the dull clipper blades rusted to the bottom of the box? What’s wrong with me?
Tack. Oh my gawd, tack. Every manner of bridle pieces, many just impulse grabs at a midnight sale, several odd pairs of cheekpieces or random browbands or oh, the curb chains. The Curb Chains! And the piles of leather driving harness. I don’t even remember when or why I chose to purchase second hand full collars in graduated sizes or whole bins of trace pairs. All I know is that at some point, I started hoarding harness pieces in sizes or buckle widths I would never use. And keepers. I’ve amassed a metric ton of miscellaneous keepers. Brown leather keepers for bridles or belts. Black leather keepers for driving harness or the occasional experimental cobbled together training gear. And biothane keepers, the ones that turn brittle and crack. I can’t stand those cheap things and yet, I have several. The sad reality is that there are scant few keepers with a matching pair in the pile. Just a coffee can overflowing with every random size keeper imaginable and not a single sound way to find a use for them. Or a use for the rings and buckles cut from any halter I did manage to throw out over the years.
And the weird stuff! Grain scoops. Multiple. I don’t even own a barn anymore. Folding saddle racks, convertible saddle racks, over the fence rail saddle racks, multi-saddle racks on wheels. I only own one saddle anymore! At least I’m down to the last oddball girths, of which they’ll probably bury with me. And that ancient stallion guard that came in a box lot at an auction. If you don’t know what a stallion guard is, just know it’s
a type of chastity belt to prevent stallions from getting randy. Envision a metal cribbing muzzle with G-string straps. I mean, it’s a conversation starter! How can I let it go?
Horsewear. Horsewear! The bloomin’ horsewear! Blankets and scrims and sheets, oh my! Blankets and scrims and sheets, Oh MY! Somehow, I’m still staring at several neck covers, full hoods, and huge wool coolers. None of these will fit my 12-hand pony. Heck, the coolers could serve as luxury tents! I’ve even tried to liquidate such specific but vital necessities like those garage clip lights with the metal shade that we all use at horse shows. I have a heated muck tub that can’t seem to find a buyer. What use is it to advertise a whole bin of random fleece tubes? Some are for girths. Some are for halters. Many are matted and itchy from years of washing while others are mere remnants left over from my custom-fitting a fleece tube to this girth billet or that halter poll strap. Whyyyyyyy? Why can’t I purge that box!?
And the leather gloves. Not one but three pair each in black, white, brown, and faux leather. I ONLY HAVE TWO HANDS! The white lab coat for lead line leaders or pleasure driving headers. Jackets and blazers for dressage and carriage driving, none of which fit me. Two pairs of dressage boots, one pair of hunt boots, and a pair of brandnew square toe paddock boots that don’t even fit me right. Gah! The totes have wandered around my home while hanging firmly
Mid-Ohio Marauders
Mid-Ohio Marauders July Ohio State Fair Shoots
PRESIDENT, Tim Calvin
VICE PRESIDENT, Missy DeForest
SECRETARY, Judy Foster
TREASURER, Laurie Maris
PHONE, 740/206-7214
EMAIL, midohiomarauders@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.midohiomarauders.com
by Steve Keech
The Mid-Ohio Marauders had another very successful shoot at The Ohio State Fair! The crowd was amazing, a packed house to cheer on the competitors. Below are results from the shoot. Photographs are courtesy of Rose Creations, LLC, https:// www.myrosecreationstory.com/
OHIO STATE FAIR SHOOT
SATURDAY RESULTS
LIMITED WRANGLER, Nathaniel Hewitt
OPEN WRANGLER, Lane Bushmire
LIMITED RIFLE, Alex Gornichec
OPEN RIFLE, JD Hughes
LIMITED SHOTGUN, Dale Goebel
OPEN SHOTGUN, JD Hughes
RES. SENIOR COWGIRL, Amie Cline
SENIOR COWGIRL, Tammy Angeletti
RESERVE SENIOR COWBOY, JD Hughes
RESERVE COWBOY, Cary Barrow
RESERVE COWGIRL, Amanda Rinz
OVERALL COWBOY, Robert Bernhardt
OVERALL OVERALL, Stacy Thacker
OHIO STATE FAIR SHOOT II
SUNDAY RESULTS
LIMITED WRANGLER, Nathaniel Hewitt
OPEN WRANGLER, Lane Bushmire
RES. SENIOR COWGIRL, Amie Cline
RES. SENIOR COWBOY, Mike Maris
SENIOR COWBOY, JD Hughes
RESERVE COWBOY, Robert Bernhardt
RESERVE COWGIRL, Tammy Angeletti
OVERALL COWGIRL, Chrissy Ramsey
OVERALL OVERALL, Travis Gibson
We also celebrated several move ups, Myra Miles from L1 to L2; Alex Gornichec from M1 to M2; and Darrel Hewitt from
As always, if you are interested in joining the Mid-Ohio Marauders, the central Ohio club for CMSA, please visit us at Midohiomarauders.com or on Facebook at Mid-Ohio Marauders. See you soon!
2025 SHOOT SCHEDULE SEPT. 19-21: Marauders Club Shoot at Madison Co. Fairgrounds
View From the Cheap Seats
Continued from page 50
around my neck like albatrosses of torment. And you Tack Minimalists...I have no idea. Only have one of everything? Only have items that actually fit the horse you own, that you actually use on the regular? Sell, donate, or heaven help me, THROW AWAY something! I don’t understand, I have no idea. That group meets next door, so I’ve been told. Don’t ask me who moderates that group. Some psycho, I’m sure.
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.
SM1 to SM2. Look for dance videos on Facebook!
Nathaniel Hewitt
Amie Cline
Travis Gibson
Western Dressage
Mastering Trust and Communication in Western Dressage: Building Lasting Harmony with Your Horse
by Kelley Bitter
Western dressage is more than a sport—it’s a unique journey of partnership built on trust and open communication between rider and horse. By blending the principles of classical dressage with the practical grace of western riding, Western dressage celebrates the authenticity, reliability, and mutual understanding that define outstanding equestrian teams. At its heart, trust is the silent foundation beneath every successful cue, transition, and maneuver. When horse and rider trust each other, communication becomes effortless and harmonious, resulting in performances that are both technically impressive and deeply moving.
Understanding
Western Dressage
and
the Role of Trust
Western dressage combines classical discipline with the relaxed, attentive feel of Western horsemanship. Competing in traditional Western tack and highlighting breeds best suited to the western arena, riders are judged on subtlety, harmony, and correctness—but most importantly, on the authentic connection they forge with their equine partner.
Trust is what distinguishes a mechanical ride from a masterful one. In Western dressage, it’s not just about giving cues or performing patterns, but about embodying a true partnership. The horse learns to trust the rider’s guidance, responding without tension or uncertainty, while the rider develops faith in the horse’s willingness and intuition. This trust allows for softer aids, lighter contact, and a performance that flows with genuine unity.
Why Trust and Communication Impact Scores
Communication and trust go hand in hand—one cannot exist meaningfully without the other. Judges are trained to look for these key elements:
• Calm Responsiveness: A horse that trusts its rider accepts aids with confidence, remaining calm even in new situations.
• Consistency in Transitions: Trusted cues result in smooth, accurate transitions; the horse isn’t guessing or second-guessing the rider.
• Harmony and Relaxation: True partnership is evident when horse and rider look relaxed together, with ears, eyes, and posture reflecting attention and ease.
• Accuracy and Subtlety: When trust exists, even the lightest aid elicits a precise response, viewed favorably by judges seeking a ‘conversation’ rather than a ‘command.’
A team lacking trust might show nervous hesitations or resistant movement, which dent overall scores and detract from the performance’s beauty.
Communicating with Trust: Specific Aids and Real Successes
Aids are not just technical signals—they only reach full potential when filtered through mutual trust. A trusting horse doesn’t brace against the bit or guard against the leg, but accepts gentle, sometimes nearly invisible, cues.
How Trust Transforms Aids
1. Transitioning Gaits with Confidence
• Aid: Use your seat and gentle leg pressure.
• With Trust: Your horse moves up or down a gait eagerly, knowing your cue will always be fair and predictable.
• Example: Sarah’s gelding, Trickster, once rushed his lope transitions. By spending time at the walk and jog, rewarding his efforts, and never rushing corrections, Sarah built Trickster’s trust. Later, her transitions became seamless—she barely had to close her calf for Trickster to willingly lift into the lope.
2. Executing Accurate Figures
• Aid: Inside leg at the girth and light rein support.
• With Trust: Your horse bends and follows your direction without resistance, confident there’s no abrupt or unclear ask coming.
• Example: Ben practiced slow-motion circles at a walk, focusing on breathing and relaxed aids. Over weeks, his mare started to seek the bend naturally, reflecting her growing trust and resulting in glowing remarks from judges.
3. Performing Lateral Movements Together
• Aid: Inside leg pressure and steady outside rein.
• With Trust: Horse crosses over willingly, staying balanced and relaxed, attentive to small shifts instead of strong correction.
• Example: Emily’s young mustang was wary of leg yields. She started on the ground with gentle yields, lots of pets, and no rush. As trust grew, the mustang began to offer sideways steps under saddle, understanding new communication in a supportive way.
Trust in Action: More Illustrative Stories
• Natalia and Oakley: Oakley, a sensitive mare, was easily startled by applause at shows. Natalia knew that forcing the issue would break their bond, so she practiced clapping quietly around Oakley at home, stopped riding to pet and reassure her, and kept sessions low pressure. Eventually, Oakley learned that Natalia’s presence meant safety— even in the noisiest arenas. Their performances soon displayed a calm connection that judges rewarded for harmony and poise.
• Derek and Sam: Sam developed arena anxiety after a bad fall with a previous owner. Derek spent months walking Sam in-hand around the space, letting Sam look, sniff, and relax. It was only after Sam routinely lowered his head and breathed deeply with Derek nearby that they resumed training. The trust built in these sessions paid off: Sam became attentive and steady under saddle, earning commendations for submission and flow.
• Lisa and Jasper: Jasper had a habit of ‘freezing’ at new objects on pattern. Lisa made it a fun game, walking to the object, letting him sniff, then rewarding with praise or a treat. Over time, Jasper would approach scary objects, look to Lisa for reassurance, and move on—demonstrating how trust turned a hesitancy into a confident communication tool.
Building Trust and Communication: Practical Exercises
Here are targeted exercises designed to strengthen trust and communication for every level:
Groundwork for Trust. Practice leading, backing, and yielding the hindquarters and forehand with a soft halter and lead rope. Use gentle pressure—and immediate release—for desired responses. This teaches your horse to trust your guidance without fear or frustration.
The Hand-to-Rein Softness Drill. From a halt, hold your reins lightly and ask for a single step backward with your seat and a soft cue. Wait for a ‘try,’ then release all pressure. This instantly rewards effort and uses clarity, not force, strengthening trust that cues are always fair.
The ‘No Reins, No Worry’ Circle. Drop your reins onto your horse’s neck at a walk or jog, guiding only with seat and leg. Let your horse know mistakes aren’t punished—just calmly redirect. This builds a calm, confident horse that trusts your body language far more than your hands.
‘Follow My Focus’ Game. Pick a spot in the arena and direct all your energy, eyes, and seat toward it; ask your horse to move there.
FRY’S EQUINE INSURANCE AGENCY
Praise any effort to read your intent. This enhances communication while teaching your horse to trust your direction, not just your aids. Sharing the Scary. Introduce unusual objects (tarps, cones) in hand. Allow your horse to investigate without force. Scratch the withers and reward each small curiosity. Later, re-introduce these objects under saddle to show your horse you’ll always keep them safe—building confidence in your leadership.
Trust-based Transitions. Ask for transitions (walk-halt, halt-back, jog-lope) with the softest cues you can. If your horse hesitates, wait, breathe, and repeat your aid more softly, giving plenty of praise when your horse responds. Over time, your horse will seek your quietest cue, knowing it’s always consistent.
Quiet Time Together. End at least one session a week with quiet, unstructured time—grooming, hand grazing, or simply standing together. The best communication is as much about listening as it is about speaking. Trust grows in these quiet moments.
Mirroring Confidence Exercise. When riding, consciously relax your body, exhale softly, and ‘mirror’ the confidence you wish your horse to feel. Horses pick up tension from their riders, so purposeful relaxation can build your horse’s trust in your leadership.
Routine Change-up Rides. Occasionally ride a relaxed route that breaks from your standard schooling routine—explore the edge of the arena, go over a pole, or meander in a field (if safe). By guiding your horse through new experiences gently and reassuringly, you strengthen your bond and prove yourself as a reliable leader.
Positive Reinforcement Training. Use a favorite treat or gentle verbal praise immediately after your horse answers a new or challenging cue. Done consistently, this builds an association between listening to your cues and positive outcomes—making communication based on trust and encouragement.
Inspiring Confidence and Connection
Making trust the heart of your western dressage partnership will lift every aspect of performance. Be patient—trust is earned one step at a time. Relish every small victory: the softening of a neck, the lowering of a head, the flicker of an ear. These are signs your horse is tuning in not just to your aids, but to your intent and emotion.
With each session, you and your horse are writing your own language. Communicate openly, reward generously, and let trust lead the dance. In western dressage, the marks that matter most come not just from circles and transitions, but from the invisible thread of trust pulling horse and rider ever closer—stride by stride, heart to heart.
When trust and communication work hand in hand, the bond between you and your horse is visible to all—judges, spectators, and most importantly, to each other. This is the true art of western dressage, where real connection takes center stage.
Want help with these and other exercises? Contact us at Eagles Nest Equestrian Center, Ravenna, Ohio, on Facebook or www. eaglesnestequestrian.com
Eagles Nest Equestrian has open lesson times for both private and group sessions! Take the next step in your training journey today. Message us at eaglesnestequestrian@gmail.com or visit our Facebook page: Eagles Nest Equestrian Performance.
TREASURER Margaret Hite 740/407-6986 treasurer@ohconline.com
Greetings From Your President
You might say Mother Nature hasn’t been the best of friends with us this year—rain, heat, humidity, and the list goes on. However, fingers crossed, as we enter the fall, she gives us some great weather for riding, competing, working on trails, holding fundraisers, and the list goes on, because our volunteers never stop looking for ways to give back to the equine community, no matter the weather or time of year.
This year has gone too fast, and our November 8 state membership meeting at the Elks
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ASHTABULA
As summer winds down, we’re wrapping up another successful show season here in Ashtabula!
A huge thank you goes out to all the volunteers, participants, and supporters who helped make our summer horse shows a success. It was a lot of work, but the rewards were even greater— fun,
in Newark will be upon us. The NE region is hosting, and I’m sure we’ll have a full house, as we have in the past. If you’re a chapter officer, plan on attending so you can share the current and upcoming status of OHC with your chapter’s membership. If you’re not an OHC chapter officer, you are welcome to join us to experience how the organization works and meet others who enjoy their equine friends. Perhaps you’ll gain ideas from others or be inspired to take a step and volunteer your time in a more active role. If you’re
fellowship, and fantastic horses all around!
Now, we’re switching gears and heading into trail riding season. Get ready for some exciting upcoming Dice Rides and planned trail rides throughout the fall. These events are a great way to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with fellow riders in our OHC community. Stay tuned for dates and details on our Facebook page and at upcoming meetings. Whether you’ve been riding all summer or just getting back in the saddle, there’s something for everyone coming up. If you ever want to learn more about who we are and what we do, please reach out to us. Our Facebook page is a fantastic way to contact us. Just
PRESIDENT Mary Alice Kuhn 330/413-6589 president@ohconline.com
a Junior Ambassador, please attend, as you are the future, and we encourage your attendance and involvement! If you’ve never participated in a meeting, I encourage you to stop in. We have plenty of space, especially for the homemade desserts from our hosting region.
Other upcoming dates to note include membership renewals and joining the Ohio Horseman’s Council for 2026, which begins on October 1, as well as grant money applications due by November 1. To renew your membership, you’ll receive a
VICE PRESIDENT Nancy Strayer 740/694-1007 vicepresident@ohconline.com
OHC COUNTY LINES EDITOR Kirstie Seeger 937/974-3345 countylineeditor@ohconline.com
reminder in the mail around October 1. You can also invite a friend to join online at ohconline. com or via an application from the chapter. To apply for grant money, please visit ohconline. com/member-documents and locate the application at the top of the page. The Ohio Horseman’s Council is committed to making Ohio Better, Four Hooves at a Time, through our volunteers’ efforts in partnerships, membership engagement, and youth members and their families. Happy Riding!
~Mary Alice Kuhn
search Ohio Horseman’s Council Ashtabula Chapter. Another option is to attend a meeting. We have our meetings on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. We really hope you will join us! Looking forward to catching up with everyone on some good group rides!
~Kat Ring
ATHENS
Come join our meetings held on Thursdays every six weeks. Starting at 6 p.m. for chit chat and by 6:30 take a seat. Gather upstairs on the second floor of The Eclipse Store. Order yourself some wings, salad, drinks, and more. We follow an agenda with Robert Rules of order, or at least we try. Supporting equine neighbors of youth, seasoned riders, and beginners is our cry. Sharing information of what is happening, stories of past rides, making plans, and goals. All are welcome to attend, geldings, mules, mares, donkeys, even foals.
We encourage tracking saddle miles of groups both large and small. Sweat and blisters from performing trail maintenance work becomes a ball. Various events, we do like offering
pony rides giving back to the community. Riding jointly together of all levels from walk, to trot, to lope we support with humility. Education opportunities abound like management of pasture. We mold friendship connections with ease like carving in alabaster. So come out and join us at a meeting by yourself or in pairs. Follow our Facebook page Athens Chapter of Ohio Horseman’s Council, hope to see you there!
~Todd Hess
AUGLAIZE
Hello once again! We had some turbulent events happen in the last couple of months to recap. In July, we had Harley Mertz, Nora MacWhinney and Olivia Herron compete for equine queen. They had to do an essay written test, impromptu and public speaking, personal interview and horsemanship. I wished them the best of luck as they had to wait until fair for the winners to be announced. It was a grueling, long wait but it was well worth it! Our new equine queen, Harley Mertz, was crowned July 27 as well as equine princess Blaire
Ashtabula County OHC
Ashtabula County OHC
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Stauffer. Furthermore, our junior ambassador, Gunnar Smith, was named the honorary equine king after all the dedication and time he has shown and done in the past years for our organization. Additionally, Auglaize County state qualifiers kicked some butt at state with 11 out of 16 placing in the top ten! Some highlights were Reese Rable getting the grand in barrels 16-18 with a time of 15.5, Joslynne Hawkins got a reserve in poles and a placed 5 in barrels, Blair Stauffer getting two top ten 2 place awards, Tyler Young three top ten awards 3, 5 and 8, Cece Nagle three top ten awards 5, 6 and 8 and Audrey Reineke getting two top ten 5 place awards. Our junior ambassadors who participated were Audrey Reineke, Cece Nagel, Gunnar Smith and Harley Mertz. However, we had quite a bit of additional riders such as Alexis Shade, Anna Hagan, Blair Stauffer, Brooke Craft, Cameron Dammeyer, Elli Thompson, Ellis Wessel, Joslynne Hawkins, Kayleigh Hickman, Reece Mummey, Reese Rable and Tyler Young.
The Summerfest in St. Marys is an event we love to support. We will be participating in the parade, but the Summerfest is an amazing event for all ages with the fireworks, pageants, talent shows, tournaments and so many more events.
In the upcoming months we will be participating in the Octoberfest parade on October 5 and on December 6 we will have
a hometown holiday parade. For more details please check out our Facebook page, Auglaize County Ohio Horseman’s Council Inc. Thank you so much once again!
~Veronica Mertz
CLARK
Clark County had another successful day serving at the Clark County Pork Producers booth at the county fair. We are very fortunate to have this opportunity every year as a fundraiser. The day started slow as it was incredibly hot but, we still ran out of chops around 7:30 that evening. Many thanks to Anne Demmy, Chris Fries, Cheryl Smith, Jodie Childs, Jonna Ledyard, Polly Agle, Anne Hunter, Chris Price, Richard Thibeault, Rebekah Newel, and Chuck LaRosse who all served this year. We really had a lot of participation from our members for which we are grateful and it was fun! Well, it was fun except for the tornado warning where we all had to go to the youth building and wait for the storm to pass.
We are planning our fall campout which is tentatively scheduled for October 4-5. There will be fun games, obstacles and a movie under the stars. We will be having a potluck Saturday night with the main course provided.
The next meeting is scheduled for September 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the Buck Creek Shelter house. Come ride with Clark County!
~Jonna Ledyard
CLERMONT
Yes, I know I missed the article for August, life gets busy, and
I apologize for not having an article submitted. It was just almost too hot to ride. I’m sure we are all saying enough with the heat and humidity we suffered with this past summer. We need a break also from the B52 horse fly bombers.
Only three brave souls rode on July 26 for our July day ride, I suspect due to the heat. I rode 4.5 miles and was home before 12:30 p.m. Thanks to my riding buddies, Tim and Jeni, for braving the temperatures to come out and ride.
The last week in July Clermont County OHC supported our local 4H by sponsoring three classes at Clermont County Fair. Congratulations to Olivia Swaynie and TAV for a first place in trail in hand age group. Olivia tells me she is 11 years old, has owned TAV almost two years, he sure is a cutie. She doesn’t know yet what her plans are for TAV, but she hopes to be able to continue to show him. Congratulations to Grace Pfankuch and Rhoda for a win in trail novice intermediate. Grace is only 10 years old, her horse Rhoda is 18. Her plans are to keep Rhoda forever and to continue to show. Congratulations to Clara Brandenburg with Dixie for her first in trail class age group. Clara is 15 years old and her plans are to continue to show with lots of practice. And congratulations again this year, Josie Purdy wins Jr Trail 9-14 with Ducky (certified lover boy). She says Ducky is an ottb, raced as a 3 year old, was really, really bad. He retired when he was three and then we were the second owner after his race career. Happy Hunters 4H group is very proud of this young lady. This is Josie’s second year winning first place in this class. Congratulations to our very own Elizabeth Brumbach with Equine ETC with Dixie, her 28-yearold mini. Elizabeth also wins in ground roping, and top equine skillathon score.
Trail update: While we are still waiting for the Blue Trail to dry to allow the tons of gravel being held at the day use parking area to be used for upgrading that trail, we have been working to get the perimeter trail cleared for a ride around the lake the first weekend in November. This is not an OHC scheduled ride, however many of our members will likely be riding the 33 miles in one day.
The bricks are finished! As soon as time and manpower
permit, the park plans to use the bricks to complete the kio at the Tim Applegate parking lot. Dates for fall camp and rides are September 18-21 and October 10-13. Gate opens about noon on Friday and is free to any OHC member. Water is provided for horses, and generators are welcome. Watch for details on our Facebook page regarding our monthly rides.
To look into the eye of a horse is to see a reflection of yourself that you might’ve forgotten. Looking forward to our fall riding season.
~LaWana
Bogard
CLINTON
Hello fellow horseman and woman, I hope your summer is going amazing. It has been a hot one, then wham a cool front came in, we had a campout planned so it worked out amazingly! You will see from our August 1 campout the group getting ready to ride out had a great ride. On that ride we ran into members Karen and Rick Johnson. The park came out and widened the trails with the mower, thank you Warren County! We had one of the largest turnouts we have ever
Cece Nagel
Auglaize County OHC
Audrey Reineke
Clark County OHC
Josie Purdy and Ducky.
Grace Pfankuch and Rhoda.
Olivia Swaynie and TAV.
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had. It was great to see so many join in the fun! You can go to our Facebook page to see all the photos, and any updates of our rides and campouts.
One of the photos is myself and my granddaughter and her first ride. She is 4 years old, and it all starts with loving to ride. She had a great time. I believe that we need to introduce our kids/ grandkids to riding—it is the best thing to keep them occupied, out of trouble, learn how to work, and work hard to have the fun we have riding and camping! So many clubs like OHC have a Junior Ambassador club, Junior rodeos, and 4-H—get them involved. Like I always say take a kid riding and see the future! Our next campout is Labor Day weekend, photos in next issue. Have a great summer! ~Sue
COLUMBIANA
Hello everyone, many of our members have been very busy at Beaver Creek State Park making improvements. Down at the main park bad weather damaged many
of the tie lines. We want to thank Ted Todd, Rick Haldiman, Alice Haldiman and Aaron Perkins for all the hard work replacing the tie lines and resetting the tie line poles. I don’t think people realize how much work goes into replacing tie lines and poles. From my understanding most of the tie lines and poles at the main park were damaged form falling trees. Poles had to be set, cable had to be restrung, and anchors placed in the ground to support the cables. This project was a couple days of volunteer labor and donated material. When you visit this park or any other park just remember all of the volunteers that came together to make the improvements that you enjoy.
In July we had our annual ‘Summer Bash’ which was a huge success. The events included a poker run, 50/50 drawing, and tickets for a gift basket. We would like to thank Casey Moore and Danielle Burant for all the time they put into organizing this event, and the OHC volunteers who helped run the event. Finally at the end of the day’s events we all gathered for a covered dish dinner with the chapter supplying the hamburgers and hotdogs. Tending the grill was Chad Bruer and Aaron Perkins, thank you gentlemen for your time tending to the cooking. Remember, all the proceeds from this event and others go back into the park to make improvements.
I would like to put out a quick reminder of the upcoming event in October. It’s our annual Halloween ride on the weekend of October 11-12. Those of you who are coming may want to make your reservations early, this event draws a lot of rider’s and campsites fill up fast. Be safe and ride on!
~Doug Johnson
CUYAHOGA
A month ago, when the temperature was 95+, who would believe we would be pulling on a sweatshirt so soon. But this mean we will be tracking more trail miles and our horses will be more like the enthusiastic wonders they are. We track trail miles so that park authorities will know of our strength in numbers and that the trails are indeed being used. This helps us network with park leaders to show we are an important user group. If you have ever had a horse that suffers from Heaves every year you know how devastating
this can be. Every day presents a challenge to try to keep them comfortable and sometimes the modern medicines just can’t do enough. When steroids become an enemy rather than a help, we try to pull theses horse through fall with every means we can. Antihistamines, Vicks, cough remedies, soaking hay and grain, keeping the barn as dust free as possible and keeping horses in clean well-ventilated areas. Breathing treatments, supplements and prayers. If you have a horse you are trying to support by all these means then you know what a worry each day brings. Will this be the day you must make that awful decision to send your wonderful companion to greener pastures. I have always said better one day too soon than a minute too late but in reality, this is agony. Right now, I don’t know what tomorrow will bring. Make plans now to join Cuyahoga, Medina and Summit chapters for a wonderful State Ride weekend at the beautiful Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field in the South Chagrin Reservation Moreland Hills, Ohio, September 26-28. There are 50 sites available, portable corrals allowed. The fun begins on Friday when you check in anytime after noon. Get set up and take a leisurely trail ride and come back for a cookout and campfire. Saturday will start with a hot breakfast followed by an obstacle clinic presented by the Cleveland Metroparks Mounted Police Unit. You and your horse will learn and have fun at the same time. Saturday night will have a dinner, live auction, line dancing, campfire and a bargain table of interesting items. Sunday there will be a continental breakfast. Contact Rosemary Young 440/382-7980, Molly Eastwood 330/603-0820, Cathy Matonis 216/789-0496 or Raydeen Ryden 334/663-7361 for more information, a flyer and to reserve your site. If time does not allow you to stay the weekend, please join us for the Saturday night dinner and festivities. Day riders and nonriders are also welcome to join this event. This is a friendly group and you will feel right at home.
Joining a chapter of Ohio Horseman’s Council is the best way to protect, expand and learn about bridle trails throughout the State of Ohio. Look up ohconline.com for more information and find a chapter of your choice. Help us ensure
trails are there for us as well as the next generation to enjoy. Make friends, learn more with our educational programs, eat great food at gatherings, and enjoy the trails.
~Penny Passalacqua
DELAWARE
Greetings from Delaware Chapter! Come and join us on Friday, September 5 for our annual Autumn-at-Alum potluck and trail ride. This festive event kicks off at 6 p.m. Friday with a scrumptious array of potluck dishes and a near endless choice of desserts. Immediately following dinner, our live auction, hosted by our very own, auctioneer extraordinaire, Bob Sweeney, will be sure to entertain as you try to outbid your friends for that one special ‘must-have’ item. In addition, other items will be available in our silent auction. Our musical entertainment will be the vocal duo of Chaz and Nicki, returning for their second year. Best of all, we invite all our horseback riding enthusiasts to come and enjoy our beautiful Alum Creek bridle trails. Close to 40 miles of trails await exploration by you and your equine partner. You can choose to come for a day ride or camp for the weekend. Camping reservations are needed and can be made through ReserveOhio.com.
Autumn-at-Alum potluck and trail ride is our main fundraiser for our Delaware Chapter. All proceeds from this event go towards trail improvements at Alum Creek State Park.
In addition to our September 5 festivities, you should mark your calendar to watch and/or take part in this year’s Delaware All-Horse Parade, which kicks off at 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 7 from the Delaware County Fairgrounds. This parade, the largest nonmotorized parade east of the Mississippi river, features a vast array of types and breed of equine, individual riders and riding groups following a two and a half mile route through downtown and historic Delaware, beginning and ending at the fairgrounds. The Ohio Horseman’s Council will be well represented. If you would like to take part with your horse, please contact myself or one of the other Central Region OHC chapter presidents for more information. Line-up with horses begins at noon.
On behalf of all our Delaware Chapter members, I would like
Group ride.
Rick and Karen on the trail.
Riley and myself on her first ride.
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to extend a big thank you to Ms. Jamie Rains for her informative discussion and demonstration of the art and technique of Jin Shin Jyutsu. Thank you also goes to members Sue and Kim for volunteering their equine partners for Jamie’s demonstrations.
October 1 kicks off the OHC membership drive for 2026. Members are encouraged to renew their membership as soon as possible to avoid disruptions in receiving their Horsemen’s Corral magazine and/or their equine liability insurance. We welcome new members and look forward to meeting you in person at our next meeting.
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. Owner and fellow member, Rosemary Staeck, is extending this thoughtful and generous gift to new memberships joining us for 2026.
As you can see, we have lots of fun in store for you as a member of Delaware Chapter. Come and join us! Our meetings are generally held the first Friday of every month at the Kilbourne United Methodist Church on SR 521 beginning at 7 p.m. Friends and guests are always welcome.
~Theresa Burke
ERIE
Greetings from Erie County! It is September already! What a summer it has been. Hot temperatures and lots of rain at times has changed plans but we keep riding, just earlier. Our annual poker ride falls on Saturday, September 6. It is held at the Smokey Road trailhead in Berlin Heights. Check out our ad in the Corral. Weather is usually great. Trails are well marked and ready to ride! Registration is open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Lunch is served from 12-2 p.m. All hands must be turned in by 2 p.m. Auctions, 50/50, and a fun time awaits. Bring the whole family! We finally were able to attend one of the campouts on our calendar. Beavercreek it was! One of my favorite places to ride. You’ve got to love the many water crossings, hill climbs and great views. Throw in a surprise poker tide, a great potluck, and horseback riding. What more could you wish for? The Gibby Ride at Barkcamp was next on our list. Everyone was excited to attend. We are
very excited to share that Tim and Lynn Sparks were selected as the Gibby award recipients for 2025! We can really keep a secret, as they were totally surprised...congratulations!
Congratulations also goes out to Rebecca and Caleb on their wedding. We saw the proposal last year, now they tied the knot! Our Edison Woods campout is scheduled for September 26-28. So much fun—life is better on the trail!
~Shelley Hayes
FAIRFIELD
Hello September, the beginning month for one of our best riding seasons. Here is the catch, I am writing this in July which so far has been either raining or 90 degrees. All we can hope for is that our state ride in this month turns out OK. I will report on it in next month’s Corral
Several of our members went to the big ride I mentioned in last month’s news, and they reported they are ready to go again but in the fall. Another member of our club headed to Texas for fun, no riding involved. I want to mention our one member Bill who just keeps getting better. Keep up the good work. I also want to mention another one of our members, Jim McKenzie, who ended up in the hospital after getting bit by a Lone Star tick. I understand he is doing OK. It was mentioned at the start of the year that ticks were going to be bad.
I didn’t hear too much about the scheduled chapter ride at Zaleski
except Chris had a little problem getting there. Seems that a big pine tree fell across the road getting there and he couldn’t turn around or back up so, it was time for plan B. It seems there is a man who he referred to as the Mayor of Zaleski, Dave Douglas. He was able to call him, and his response was I’m on my way chain saw in hand. The problem was solved, and Chris was on his way. I guess you owe him a beer.
Several of our members attended the regional ride at Fallon Park where again Mother Nature was a factor. Friday was dreary but, got a little riding in. Saturday turned out nice until night rolled in with a pour down. Sunday morning gave everyone a chance to enjoy a breakfast of pancakes and sausage provided by our chapter. I have included a picture of our president Chris and his hard-working helper Donna also a young lady flipping pancakes Misty McDonald from Morrow County.
I guess that’s about all I have to report for now. The weather is still hot, so hopefully it is going to cool down.
FULTON
I have never been so glad to see summer end and fall arrive! July was typical with hopeful plans and subsequent cancellations due to high temperatures and forecasts of rain and storms. Early morning and evening riding was tolerable. I was hugely disappointed when we had to cancel our trip to West Branch, but I look forward to rescheduling it. We’ve never been there, but it looks like a good place to go. Some members did go camping and a few others did day trips. Rod and Michelle participated in a Civil War reenactment in Hastings, Mich., and the Kunkle Fourth of July parade. Patty went to the Allen County Equestrian Course which is something I’d love to do! And some members camped at Reed
Road.
The first three days of August were ideal for riding and camping, and many members were busy. Brian and Marianne attended a Carl Bledsoe gaited horse clinic in Ionia, Mich. LeRoy et al camped at Reed Road Ranglers and rode at Oak Openings where many other members day rode. Rod and Michelle camped and rode at Hocking where Kaiden, our only Jr Ambassador, was vacationing with his family. Member Ann Micka and her family were also at Hocking that weekend. It’s a very popular vacation destination! Our first chapter activity in August was our club camping trip to Mohican. We had 12 rigs plan to go. Then the following weekend, August 15-17, we planned our chili cookoff camping weekend at Reed Road Ranglers. Some of our more adventurous members planned to ride in parades. Tami, Polly and Kate planned to ride in the Swanton Corn Festival Parade on August 9, and Christine planned to join them at the Delaware All Horse Parade on September 8. Some planned camping trips to Malabar and, of course, Reed Road.
Our project to donate stone to Oak Openings Metropark to fix some of the muddy spots on the horse trails was accomplished near the end of July, 47 tons of stone was delivered. It will be installed as soon as possible, weather permitting. We’re also trying to arrange some volunteer time to cleanup trails at Oak Openings or the Maumee State Forest.
Our corn roast meeting at Reed Road Ranglers is planned for
Erie County OHC
Lynn and Tim
Fairfield County OHC
Volunteer Joel working on the trails.
Kunkle Fourth of July parade.
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September 2. Many of us are planning to camp and ride at the NW state ride at Van Buren September 19-21. We look forward to good riding weather and miles on the trails, any trails, anywhere!
Our 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 GREENE
August started out almost fall like. The weather was fabulous during the first part of the month. The Easy Peasy group has endured a few setbacks this summer, such as broken ribs, broken ankle, broken foot, broken collar bone, and breast cancer. However, we are resilient and are finally back in the saddle. We are now known as the Bubble Wrap Easy Peasy group. Ride on!
A few members of our search and rescue team participated in an obstacle play day at a local farm in preparation for the September Colloquium in Lexington, Kentucky.
The fairs over the summer were well attended and many members participated in various events, including horses, cows, llamas, sheep, pigs, rabbits, and chickens. The Greene County Fair was successful for the young 4-H participants. One of our Junior Ambassadors, Lenora Ahrens, was designated as the 2025
Greene County Fair Senior Horse Ambassador. Larkyn Stuckey was designated as the 2025 Junior Horse Ambassador. Another Junior Ambassador, Olivia (Livi) Schmidt-Leon participated in the Clinton County Fair. She and her horse, Jewel, were such a team and showed in English, western, and some contesting.
Our cleanup crews performed tree and trail cleaning at Caesar Ford Park. It takes a crew (village) to do this work, and it is much appreciated. Trail maintenance is continual process.
The All-Horse Parade is one of the largest and longest parades in Ohio and is a blast to attend. Many Greene County members rode their horses or mules in the parade.
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, let’s get out and ride.
~Cindra
GUERNSEY
On July 19 we had an awesome turnout for the sing at Horse Camp, Salt Fork State Park!
Chestnut Hill came and sang a variety of songs for the 55 of us who showed up for the event. Earlier in the day a half dozen of us rode the White Trail – B Loop and took lunch at the new picnic area by the Tucker House, just before the 3-mile marker. The weather was perfect and we had a great ride.
Don McIntyre (of the club) and Bob Meeks (Salt Fork Maintenance) replaced a tie-line post, at Horse Camp! Thanks guys!
The park is paving the road to the Kennedy house and the White Trail – A Loop has been closed for several weeks. It’s slated to be open again, August 11.
I’ve been making hay on all the four-day weather breaks this year. It’s been a miserable hay year. It just won’t stop raining, but I will say this, the hay has been great. I feed the horses a couple of broken bales, from off the elevator, and not one blade of it was in the mangers the next morning! I’ve got 16 acres of second cutting laying on the ground, as I write this.
Have a safe summer. Dee Dee and I hope to see you on the trail!
~Lee Randolph
HARRISON
Hello OHC! As I write this it is still extremely hot, but I am hoping by print time we will be starting to move into fall weather. Fall with the cooler temperatures, drier trails and less bugs have always been my favorite time of year for riding.
Our club is busy planning our
Dorothy Ride which will be on October 18 at Harrison State Forest. This annual memorial ride, which honors all our members who have passed away, was started after we lost our past President Dorothy Glover in 2021. We choose October in honor of Dorothy’s birthday. This year will be especially meaningful as we just lost our current Vice President Alan VanCuren after a courageous battle with cancer. Alan was a quiet man who had a special way with horses. Due to his bum leg, he was unable to ride but he went out of his way to get his late wife Nancy as well as his daughter Brooklyn and grandson Jayce out on horseback. He did all the care, training and hauling for them and anyone who needed it. I remember one time when my horse was down, he hauled his family horse Dewey to the campground so I could ride with some club members. Helped me get him tacked and off then just sat in the campground and waited for us to return. That is the kind of man he was. Most horse folks I know are like him and I feel
Search and rescue.
Lenora Ahrens
Olivia Schmidt-Leon and Jewel at the Clinton County Fair.
Chestnut Hill band.
Bob Meeks and Don McIntyre
Alan with his grandsons.
Monna and Cindy in the creek at Hocking.
Alan and Dewie
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privileged to have several as friends. I’m sure you all feel the same as well. We always invite and welcome all to join us on our Dorothy Memorial ride and stay for chili and hotdogs in Dorothy’s Pavilion afterwards. I hope you will join us, regardless of whether you ride or not, as it is always a meaningful time together. Until next time.
~Sherrie Hart
HOCKING
Hello again! First going back, our club joined with the Perry County OHC club on Father’s Day weekend to ride at Mohican. It was very lightly attended, due to the weather forecast. Those that did attend had a wonderful camping weekend. We were able to squeeze one campfire in, between the rain storms. We also were able to ride each day. Most of us made it back to camp each day without getting wet, but others just embraced the rain. We all agreed that rain was better than bugs. This was the first time that I, personally, had been back to Mohican since the tornado went through a few years back. Oh my, it looks so very different! I am excited to see how the forest rebounds in the future.
Next big event was the clubs annual ride at Cowboy Larry’s in Hocking. It was so hot, but that didn’t stop members and guests from attending! Huge shout-out to Cowboy Larry for filling the campground. Larry is a member of the Hocking County OHC and he made sure to have non-club member guests in attendance. This becomes very important for our once a year fundraiser selling 50/50 tickets and the auction. Without guests, us club members just end up buying stuff from each other, which isn’t as exciting, nor does it raise as much money. In addition to the potluck dinner and auction, we had a Trailer Trot on Friday night. The Trailer Trot is a fun meet and greet opportunity for folks to go from trailer to trailer and try different adult beverages. We had three stops on the trot this year. Everyone had a wonderful time and it will most likely become a yearly tradition. Last up, is the Ohio State Fair. This is an exciting event for me personally, as I compete in the mounted shooting event on my guide horse, Athena. This year it was live-streamed and videos of your runs could be purchased. There were a few club members and their family’s who were able
to watch and cheer me on. It’s always so exhausting and hot, but very much worth it.
Next month be on the look out for photos and updates of some of our youth members as they attend their county fairs and competitions. There will be more trail riding updates as well.
Until then, stay cool and keep riding! Our club is very family friendly and meet at the Home Tavern in Logan the third Sunday of every month at 7 p.m. Come in earlier for dinner and relaxed conversation prior to the meeting.
Watch our Facebook page for more information about our club and upcoming events!
~Donna Shade
HOLMES
Welcome to September! We should be entering into some of the finest riding weather of the year. August is starting out beautifully with some relief from July’s heat and humidity. We did some day riding and some early morning rides at home due to the heat. But we headed out to Mohican for the Wayne County Regional Fourth of July ride for a three night camp. Despite the heat, it was well attended and superbly organized. Mohican has a great deal of shade for campers
and it is always cooler in the woods. It was an interesting evening campfire with campers back about 20 feet from the fire, but we had a good fire. Saturdays catered meal was wonderful. An excellent raffle and silent auction completed the evening. Bruce and I enjoyed the poker ride. If there had been a prize for the worst hand, I think either one of us could have claimed it. It was great to see other riders from various chapters.
We camped with Bob Picklesimer and Cowboys for Jesus at Mohican. Perfect weather with cool nights and pleasant day temps were a welcome change. Thank you to Bob for hosting and providing a great meatloaf to head the Saturday meal. Also Bob makes a great breakfast of pancakes and bacon. We enjoyed camping next to our club secretary Stephanie and her family. My dogs especially enjoyed spending time with her boys. Bruce took his
filly along for her first camping trip and she did very well. In club news, we are getting ready for our Labor Day Camp at Mohican. It will be a three night camp. We are planning a hay stack dinner on Saturday with a raffle and silent auction. We will be raffling a manure basket with caddy and a mounting block. Winner need not be present. Tickets can be purchased from any Holmes County officer. Numbers are listed on the Ohio Horsemen’s Council website under Holmes County chapter. This is a club fundraiser. Aside from expenses, the club supports Holmes County 4-H and Mohican maintenance. Also, the Holmes County Fair is in full swing right now. President Vickie Zook’s granddaughter, Ava, a junior 4-H member, did very well in her canine events. She and her nice young dog, Josie, placed reserve in Agility and Showmanship. I’ll have more results from the Junior fair next month. Other planned camps are the Holmes County work weekend September 19-21 and the Cowboys for Jesus camp closing camp October 31 through November 2.
Thank you to all readers for supporting OHC and horse related recreation. Take care out there. ~Beverly Hanna KNOX
Happy trails and greetings from Knox County! For our July meeting we had a guest speaker. Doug Gifford from the Knox Department of Agriculture gave a very interesting and informative talk on pasture management and then answered our many questions. A big thank you to Doug and to Ashley Ross for making this happen. Knox County was well represented with 14 members attending the Central Region Ride at Fallon Park AEP Conesville. In spite of some rain, everyone enjoyed the trails, the Saturday potluck and fried chicken dinner and mingling with friends from other chapters. Each campsite even won a door prize! Coming up is the state ride at Bark Camp and a club camp/ ride at Mohican State Park where we will be entertained with music and stories from Nancy Strayer and friends. Maybe even a little dancing. Save the date! On October 11 we are having a combined Scavenger Hunt and
Cowboy Larry’s
Trailer Trot
Ohio State Fair, mounted shooting.
Secretary Stephanie Yerian and family at Bob’s camp.
Bob Picklesimer
Vickie Zook and Ava with Josie at the Holmes County Junior Fair.
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Obstacle Challenge at Thayer Ridge Park in Mt. Vernon. Sign up starts at 11 a.m. with the last horse out at noon. Cost is $25 per rider and includes the scavenger hunt on approximately three miles of trail and two separate rings of fun and challenging obstacles. Our theme this year is ‘The Four Seasons’ and our scavenger hunt items and obstacles will reflect this theme. Riders will have the option to be judged on the obstacles or to do them just for fun. We are giving out prizes for first and second places. There will also be food available, a 50/50 raffle and lots of other raffle prizes. Look for our flyer on Facebook at the Knox County Chapter-Ohio Horseman’s Council and also look for our ad in this issue of the Corral. For more information you can call Cindy at 614/296-7893.
We meet the third Monday of each month at the Pizza Cottage in Mt. Vernon at 7 p.m. Come join us for a meeting, an event, or riding down Ohio’s beautiful trails!
~Cindy Cossin
LAKE
July proved hot as usual. The heat made us more aware of staying hydrated and keeping our horses comfortable. Ingrid on Romeo, a Mustang, and myself on Hannah, a Quarter Horse, rode Bear Town Reservation trails on a really balmy day after the high heat and humidity of most of the month. The lakes were refreshing to view, while the well-kept trails through the woods were quite enjoyable. Both horses liked the meadows, as well as the cool shade of the trees. Many people were friendly and respectful as they enjoyed the park. Some asked to pet our horses. Romeo and Hannah beamed with the attention. This was trail riding at its most pleasant. A lovely day, calm horses, gracious people, controlled dogs, and clear trails. Kris Ropp’s Introduction
to Horses program continues through the summer. Hannah has become part of her program. Several inner-city children came to Free Spirit Farm to become involved with ponies and horses. They learned to groom Fancy, Buck, Tony, and Hannah with appropriate curry combs and brushes. Next, they were shown how to tack up a horse. Then they were taught how to lead a horse. Some rode while being led by other students. The students also switched places and the ones riding the horses led the horses, while the ones leading the horses became the riders. The students were very conscientious taking turns with each other. I was one of the volunteers helping. The following week at Free Spirit, Loki and Pork Chop, two creamcolored mini horses, were given baths by some of the boys and girls. Loki had such a lavish amount of shampoo on him that he became a huge floating soap bubble. After much, much rinsing and children’s laughter, Loki was found again. Pork Chop was nickering, or was it snickering?
Barb M, found a mini horse named Bingo. She welcomed the little Paint mini as a companion for her Mustang, Dilly. No horse should be alone. Another member of our Lake chapter, Wendy P. shared her Mustang, Loba, with friends at Legacy Farm. We seem to love sharing the joys of horses with others.
As you share your journey with horses, be strong, be safe, and have fun.
~Rayneen Tisovic
LICKING
Do yourself and your equine partner a favor and check out Pine Ridge Equine Playground. Contact Deena McPherson through Facebook to book a time at this phenomenal obstacle course, 6979 Pine Ridge Road, Newark, Ohio.
Licking County was well represented at the Gibby ride, held at Barkcamp State Park on August 2-4, along with 14 other counties. It was a wonderful weekend of fun, food, trail riding, games, entertainment and fellowship. Congratulations to Tim and Lynn Sparks, Erie County Chapter, Gibby award recipients for 2025.
The Licking County Fun Show was rescheduled to September 6 due to weather. Head on over to Infirmary Mound Park on Saturday, September 27 for our fried chicken ride. We ride out at 10 a.m. There’s still time to reserve your campsite and join us for our Oktoberfest weekend at Dillon State Park October 17-19. Due to the holiday weekend our monthly meeting has been moved up to Sunday, August 24, 6 p.m., bring a friend.
Enjoy the trails with this beautiful fall weather coming up!
~Crystal Kirk
LOGAN
Logan County OHC members have been busy logging hours on our state parks and forests trails. I’m hoping to get cracking on that as well. I don’t know that I can catch up now, but I’ll try.
Logan County had just two members this year show up for the Central Region Ride. Becky and John Porter went and had a great time.
On August 3 Logan County OHC had their annual canoe/ kayaking trip on Mad River. We had nine members, and four guests show up, the oldest was 84 and the youngest Penelope 18
months, we all made it down the six miles successfully, whew!
The following are upcoming activities for September.
SEPT. 12: Chili cookoff, Mohican State Forest, make reservations online
SEPT. 16: Meeting and cookout at Becky Martins place, 5:30 p.m.
SEPT. 19: Van Buren State Ride ~Cynthia Orr
LORAIN
Greetings all horse riders! Lorain has been sizzling but we have become creative with our methods to beat the heat, i.e. riding inflatable horses in a cool lake. We’d like to thank Tack N More for sponsoring our September calendar page this year.
Those of us who attended the Northeast Area Regional Ride July 3-6 at Mohican had a blast, no pun intended, although it was over the Fourth of July holiday. Wayne County spoiled us with great meals, fun activities and entertainment. All were very welcoming and helpful. This was a five-star event in my humble opinion!
Some members attended the July Rocky River day ride, meeting at Lewis Road. It sounded like a perfect day for river crossings as it was very hot. Reportedly, the first crossing was deep, so it may be wise to be sure the river is safe for crossing before plunging in.
Central Region ride. Avery at Free Spirit Farm.
Ingrid and Rayneen
Romeo, Bear Town Reservation.
Logan County OHC
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West Branch is a popular ride in the summer for many of us from Lorain County. What adds to the appeal, I believe, is swimming with our inflatable horse buddies, especially with the heat wave we’ve had in northeast Ohio this summer.
Vince and Ken from our horse council have worked hard tidying up Charlemont Reservation; clearing fallen trees out of the way for riders. We are very thankful for their time volunteering for this job. The only thing they requested was folks bring nippers to keep the briars at bay.
Carole, who attended the Alum Creek campout in August, shared that she had a wonderful weekend, with beautiful weather and well-groomed trails. She shared that she rode to the tunnel one day, to Henmick Farm for lunch another day and also took a ride to Kilbourne Market for ice cream. It sounds like these are fantastic destinations to put on your must do list while camping at Alum Creek.
In September, Lorain has several events on our calendar. The chili cook-off camping and/ or day ride at Mohican State Forest will be September 1214. The camping is hosted by Ashland OHC. Day riders from Lorain plan on riding Saturday at 11 a.m. Our membership meeting on September 15 time and place may change as we are considering adding an obstacle course. We will have nominations for officers for 2026. If you are a Lorain OHC member, please give it some thought as to who might be a good fit for a position and know that it is totally acceptable to nominate yourself as a candidate. September 19-21, the AEP
Poker run fundraiser, NE Area Regional Ride.
Conesville Horse Area campout will be held at Fallon Park in Coshocton, Ohio. The ride is on 20 miles of reclaimed mining land. A hog roast sponsored by Coshocton OHC will be held on Saturday. Also September 1921, the Northwest Area Regional Ride is being held at Van Buren State Park. September 26-28 the Medina, Summit and Cuyahoga OHC’s State Ride will be held at the South Chagrin Polo Fields. The Quarter Horse Congress, held in Columbus, Ohio, will run from September 27-October 26. The All-American Quarter Horse Congress is hosted by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association. Please check their website to learn more about it.
Some of our council will be camping at Big Elk Lick Horse Camp in Benezette, Pa., from September 30-October 5. The Allegheny Mountains keep calling us back as we have had this camping trip on our agenda twice annually now for several years! There are many miles of trails that are primarily logging, gas and mining roads. Wild elk roam throughout the area and are a site to behold. If you would like to be a part of all of this, please consider joining our council; we would love to have you!
~Kathy Duncan
MADISON
Hello! I hope your summer has turned out as wonderful in your part of the state as ours finally has. Except for the horse flies, of course. Drat them all! Madison County members have been busy this summer. We had two members complete the Virtual Tevis 100 miles in 100 days; Susan Day and Lisa Reynolds. It is great to see on the Tevis map where you would be after each mileage entry—you should try it next year!
Izzy Walker is training for the 25 mile endurance ride this fall at Caesar’s Creek, and Natalie Mirick and Jeff Lieb are active with hunter jumper events. The
rest of us are busy on the trails, enjoying the beautiful, drier, weather. When you are out on the trails, please remember to pack your clippers and a small saw to help with any overgrowth you come across, all of the rain has turned some of the trails into jungles!
If we use the trails, we need also to help maintain them. Ohio State Parks funding has been drastically cut, so there are fewer people available to do any of the maintenance and the ‘people’ parts of the parks come first. It takes all of us working to keep the trails open and passable!
Deer Creek State Park horse camp area is nearing re-opening, but not yet. The new toilet has been delivered, and the water line for horses is run, but neither are yet operational. There is hope that it may be ready for fall riding. Check before you go. Until then, the day parking is still at the park office, the first right turn after you enter the park. There is ample parking, a porta-potty, and a water hose at the park office. It’s a great temporary set-up, and we are grateful to the park for making it so nice.
Our July meeting was a potluck and pool party at the home of Susan and Dave Day, and that was perfect on such a hot day. We had lots of great food, and discovered that Dave is a great smoked-meat master. Thanks to you both! Our August meeting was with the Tribute Feed rep giving a presentation on equine nutrition through various horse life stages as well as a discussion on hay quality and if there is a need for supplementation. Thanks to Tribute for making this possible.
Our gymkhana events are winding down, with the last ones in September and October. It is a ton of fun, a great way to let your horse and you experience something different, and a great way to work on trust between you and your horse as well as control in an exciting venue. All events are held at the Madison County Fairgrounds. Check the Madison County OHC Gymkhana Facebook page for information and registration. Love on your horses, love on yourself, and be kind to all to make this world a better place for each of us.
~Lisa Reynolds
MEDINA
August is the season for fairs
and more parades. Our members make sure we are represented at them all. A tip of the hat to Joyce Tretow for not only ferrying her horses and others to these events, but also giving me a nice play by play. The Summit County Fair is a great place to show horses, see horses and get to know them up close. Joyce as well as other Summit and Medina members have taken their horses here for the past several years at the invitation of Chris Wokojance, a Medina 4H leader. Joyce, Molly Eastwood, Cheryl Hess, Karen Crist, Carolyn Sullivan, and Raydeen Ryden hosted the meet and the great petting pavilion this year. Thanks for their dedication and patience in showing youngsters the joys of equine ownership. Also at the fair, Joyce provided Jackie Kristeck a young 4H student with one of Joyce’s own horses, Celtic Moon Rising so she could compete in the ranch class. Jackie took first, third, fifth and sevength in the ranch class and took two thirds and a fifth in the championship class. Congratulations, Jackie! Now let’s swing over to the Medina County Fair. A big shout out to Mack O’Neil, vice president Amy’s son who won Grand Champion Market Broiler Pair, and Best of Show for his impressive chickens. Way to go, Mack! Not to be outdone by chicken skin, Raydeen Ryden represented us at a pigskin parade. That’s the National Football Hall of Fame parade in Canton for the 2025 induction ceremony of football greats. Raydeen and Levi were all decked out for the beautiful weekend.
We now take you to our own beloved valley and August 1 for Peninsula Live and Joyce Tretow and her amazing mini horses! Followed by Horses in the Valley (Cuyahoga Valley National Park), a favorite with our chapter and another opportunity for kids to get up close and personal with our four-legged buddies. Cheryl Hess, complete with brand new hip shines at this event. I will have more pictures next month of these activities.
Our Back In The Saddle report shows Sally Zavodney back from a horrible mishap and facial surgery from a kick to her face. Ride on, Sally, ride on!
Our next work session is tentatively scheduled for September 13 followed by October 11. Join us if you can, we can really use the help this year. The rains and storms have
West Branch campout.
Swimming with my horse (inflatable that is).
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left us with a jungle of brush and downed trees to work on. 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. Leaves will be falling down in the valley!
~Rosemary MEIGS
Our Festival of the Leaves Annual Trail Ride is coming up on October 18. It has been moved a week later in the month this year as to not coincide with another ride the weekend we usually have it. Mark your calendars and come join us! We’ll be having a memorial service at the camp before the
ride at 10 a.m. with the ride beginning after. Then after the ride we’ll have a potluck dinner, door prizes, games and lots of fun. Hope to see you all there!
We’ve been having so much fun at our monthly fun show. It’s not too late to come join in on the fun. The address of the camp is 30225 State Route 124, Langsville, Ohio. The next fun show which is a makeup show and trail ride is scheduled for September 7 with the trail ride starting at 12 p.m. and fun show at 3 p.m. Then we will have our regularly scheduled September show on September 28 with the trail ride starting at 12 p.m. and fun show at 3 p.m. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
Don’t forget we have two trail riding buckles up for grabs at the year-end Christmas party! Get those ponies saddled up and get
them out on the trails. Just to make sure everyone knows, all miles ridden at the Langsville, AEP Camp are doubled for yearend totals!
The Meigs chapter meets each month on the third Tuesday (September 16) 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 the OHC and see how you can become a member.
PERRY
Do I dare talk about soup with the soupy summer we’ve had? How about just a quick reminder that our annual soup ride plans are in full swing with the event to be held October 11-12 at Burr Oak. There will be activities and camping available on the 10th as well for anyone who wishes to come early. More details to follow.
There was no July meeting so other than our upcoming rides, I can say club members are out trying to get some saddle time despite the heat. Several members attended the annual ride with Hocking at Cowboy Larry’s. It was fun and the auction a great success. Unfortunately, the trails were muddier than I’ve ever experienced.
A half a dozen ladies traveled to Bryce Canyon, Utah, in July and I have to report the weather there was outstanding. Sun for seven days, six of which were spent in the saddle exploring Zion National Park and Bryce. It was the most stunning scenery and riding ever. Talk about a trip of a lifetime and feeling like you were part of one of the old western flicks. I swear I saw John Wayne ride past, haha! We did actually ride a portion of the Butch Cassidy trail along with Slot Canyon which was really cool.
Part of what we traversed were the trails that are included in the infamous Red Rock Ride and none of it failed to amaze us. I would encourage everyone to put Bryce Canyon on their bucket list. We predominantly rode mules which was a new experience for most of us. I loved mine and even had a wine glass imprinted with her photo.
August found us at our annual Salt Fork ride hosted by the Stengles along with the Labor Day ride hosted by Fairfield OHC at Scioto Trails. That ride was cancelled last year due to
severe storms.
Looking forward to some cooler temps and shenanigans out on the trails. Hope to see everyone at the September meeting to make plans for the remainder of the year and post year. Til then, happy trails to you!
~Marianne
STARK
On August 2 the Hall of Fame parade was held in Canton, Ohio. Several members from our Stark County chapter and several from adjoining chapters put together a unit to ride in the parade. This was headed up by Julie Croston who did a tremendous job. I am including Julie’s comments and thank you to those who helped... Now that I’ve had time to gather my thoughts after what was such an amazing parade, I’m ready to post! Seriously though, this parade was a pipe dream for a lot of us. We took on the challenge, and we did it! So now, I need to give my thank you speech. Ashley Todich your dedication with communicating to the parade committee and the videos/pics you sent to them is what got us accepted. You kept us all informed and got the questions answered that we had. Your knowledge of the parade route helped with coordinating everyone to get where they needed to be. I’m so glad we did this together Thank you so much! Stark County Ohio Horsemans
Summit County Fair
Mack O’Neil
Jackie and Celtic
Annalyn Setzer, Emmalee Setzer and Hayley Mitchell at the fun show.
Andy Pyles giving a hi-five to Dixie Pyles after her run.
Kelli Wilson and her horse Remi.
Bryce Canyon.
Slot Canyon.
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Council, thank you for backing us and believing we could get a group together to represent OHC! Thank you to Ida Crum and Valerie Stroh Kline for your advice and talks when I needed guidance. Forever grateful Raydeen Ryden, Kat Slavik, thank you for being my Northern liaison contacts and putting the word out. I know it was a haul for you to come, and I am ever so thankful you both helped me when I needed it. Valerie Woodburn, Doug Woodburn and Jamie Rae, thank you for your knowledge and willingness to participate with us. I’m glad you were there to share your past experiences because they set my mind at ease. The walkers and banner carriers, Jill Mallon, Jess Crihfield, Linda Misko, Michele Harris, Valerie Stroh Kline, Janice Noel and Ida Crum. You guys were amazing! You guys helped with everything, staging, picture taking, signature getting, horse holding. If we asked, you were there to help. Thank you so much for everything you guys did. Having a ground crew is good, and you guys were the best! So thankful for all of you. Thank you to all the riders and ground crew who committed and showed up. We represented OHC well! Be proud! Thank you to my husband, Mike and Ida’s husband, Jake for helping with shuttling trailers and riders to needed locations. And thanks be to God for providing such a great day, great horses and great people to experience such an amazing opportunity. He kept us all safe and sane so we could enjoy the day!
By far the most memorable parade Murfee and I have done. I thank God for giving me this mare and the family and friends I have because of her. Truly blessed and grateful and thank you, Julie Croston for doing this and I am so glad you guys had a great time!
Our President, Mary Alice Kuhn share with us information regarding additional funds from the $5 million award OTP received in November from Ohio’s capital budget. She said BTA wanted to allocate approximately $270,000 to the horse community. She reached
out to other OHC regions to see about project sponsors and projects for this money. She said Stark Parks District in our Stark County area has three projects that fit the criteria required by the State of Ohio to access this money: Pike Ridge, realignment and improvement of existing horse trails; Sippo Valley share use trail for bridge #8; Quail Hollow for the Buckeye Trail there needing improvement and another trail near Lake High School for a walking trail improvement Therefore, the horse community will benefit along with Buckeye Trail Association. These projects will be completed in 2026.
A few of us just returned from the Gibby Ride held at Barkcamp State Park. It was exciting to see Lynn and Tim Sparks being award the Gibby Award for this year. It was very much deserved. Stacy McGill with our Stark OHC always takes along the bird houses she makes from leftover lumber her neighbor (Doug Woodyard, who is also a Stark OHC member) gives her from where he works. She puts them together and decorates them with flowers, horses and cats and sells them as a fundraiser for our chapter. She had a lot of fellow campers walking by her trailer and was able to sell quite a few. She does a terrific job and they are only $8. They make great gifts. Enjoy the rest of the year.
~Jo Ellen
SUMMIT
The OHC State Ride and camping weekend will be September 26-28 at the South Chagrin Polo Field (polo shirts and polo ponies are optional). This event is jointly sponsored by Cuyahoga, Medina and Summit OHC chapters and promises to be a weekend to remember. The Cleveland Mounted Police Unit has confirmed their reservation. Either our reputations have preceded us or the food and good company are just too good to pass up. Thankfully Gordon Ramsey won’t be making any surprise visit so a little horse hair or dust just comes with the territory. Don’t miss showing off your prowess line dancing Saturday night especially after a full day in the saddle, a hearty meal, and multiple trips to the dessert table. For those looking to do some gambling, there will be prizes, baskets, and used tack for sale. Attention members! Don’t miss
this great opportunity to clean out the trailer or that annex storing all the equipment you have saved since you got your first horse. Proceeds will support horse trails, equine programs, new youth activities and equine trail work in our counties. In closing remember that the blood sucking flies, mosquitoes and ticks bites spread diseases to you and your horse. Keep the insect spray handy throughout your day. For those highly allergic to bees, hornets and wasps, keep your Epi pen on you and not on your horse in case of separation: let your riding companion know where it is and what to do. Hopefully we can enjoy the ride but be ready if we need to take action.
~Joann Ulichney WARREN
Anyone riding the Farmer’s Trace trail lately will have noticed a huge difference. At the June meeting, we voted to let the officers get bids on having a contractor come out with heavy equipment to clear out the brush, and use their judgement in hiring one. The Over the Hill Gang has been trying our best, but there’s just been more work than we can keep up with. Add to that the fact that this year has been the perfect combination of heat and rain to make everything grow like mad, and we needed help! We’re trying to work on other areas as well. Some of the major clearing may wait until winter, when it’s easier to see what is being done. We’ll have the contractor do it, unless the park is able. Park manager Tiffany told us they have some equipment that could help, and will work with us to schedule that as time allows. They took care of a huge tangle of trees on Farmer’s a couple months ago, which made our lives much better. Seems like most of our time is spent trying to clear downed trees. Mother Nature is not playing nice this year, but we’ll keep trying. Don’t forget that September 27 is Founders Day. Dinner will start at 6 p.m. We’ll have door prizes and a 50/50. The club will provide pulled pork, and probably slaw and baked beans as well. Please bring a dish to share. We’re not having organized entertainment. There will likely be background music, low enough that people can talk to each other. We’ll have a communal campfire afterwards. All very low-key, just a nice way
to get together and visit. There will be a Halloween theme, because I volunteered to chair the event, and I’m big on Halloween. Some of us also plan to camp for the weekend if the weather is good. Hope to see you there!
~Mickie
WASHINGTON
Hello fellow horse folk, September is the beginning of the ‘ber’ months, (October, November, December) the beginning of the end of the year for horse riding folks. Yes, the temps are cooler, the foliage will be beautiful, but it is the slow steady march of shorter days and colder temps till winter slows or stops our riding till spring. What should we do about this terrible tragedy? Ride while we can! We have noticed that there are rides all over the state this time of year and we plan to take advantage of as many as possible and hope you will too. It is a great encouragement when you show up to someone else’s ride! In Washington County, we continue to ride. Grateful for the lack of bees throughout the summer and hope they stay away this fall as well. We continue to work with Wayne National Forest on our Kinderhook trails. It is difficult with the Forest Service present financial policies to get a lot done. However, they are willing and are very good to work with. Our sawyer team keeps plugging away at the trails
2025 Hall of Fame parade.
Mickie singing Karaoke.
Ramona and Cyrus
County Lines
so if you come and ride you will find them in good shape.
Seven Washington County chapter members rode in the Newport, Ohio Fourth of July parade. It was a hot ride but, we all enjoyed the crowds standing along the parade route cheering and commenting on how beautiful our horses were. We are grateful to those who showed up at our August Corn Ride. Thanks to all who helped with the food, corn and other activities. It is truly a joint effort anytime we do anything as a club. The horse club business can be quite difficult from time to time, but Washington County has a great club and we are working to make it better and better! We hope to see you on the trail!
~Rita V. Schultheis
WAYNE
July, with its long daylight hours and warm, gentle breezes, proved to be an ideal month for riders and their equine companions to explore new trails, learn new skills, and forge deeper bonds within the community. From sunrise rides to moonlit treks, the month was filled with stories worth retelling and moments that captured the spirit of our club. We kicked off the month with a festive bang, hosting our annual Regional Ride at Mohican State Forest. We had 31 rigs and participants from at least six different OHC clubs. We had an interesting scavenger hunt on horseback and a ‘high stakes’ poker run. Thanks to everyone who ran the games. It was a hot afternoon to sit out there for four hours letting riders choose
their cards as they rode through the stations. Friday night Dave Smalley was the campfire king! He cooked up a delicious round of hot dogs over the fire which were complimented by various side dishes from members and of course Pam Bachman’s famous cookies for dessert. Saturday night was catered by On the Rise Barbeque, and we were entertained by Bill Bauer who sang songs to which even us ‘oldsters’ could sing along. Sunday’s Cowboy Church led by Ernie Kaufman was inspiring and highlighted our blessings of being able to live in a country where we can worship and fellowship in such a beautiful place with our horses and good friends. Most impressive was the fact that it did not rain all four days! I cannot remember a Regional Ride in the last five years when we didn’t get at least one day of rain. Thanks to Marline and Dave Smalley, Kim Scarborough, and Leigh Litman, our officers, who worked so hard to make the weekend a success. It was great to have Dave Schmidt join us in his new camper. It made the weekend complete. Several club members were right back in their camping rigs the next weekend, July 11-12, as they camped and rode 21 miles at Malabar State Park. Of course, there was a Tuesday ride on July 8 for those who couldn’t make the Regional Ride or just had not had enough time to ride every trail at Mohican during the Regional Ride. July 17-20, six members
of our club were joined by three from Medina County to camp out at Two Mile Run County Park in Franklin, Pa. Thank you, Jen Petersen, for hosting. The weather was perfect, and trails were challenging and in great shape. Everyone rode 27 miles over three days, except poor Erine who was with me on the ‘Baker ride’. We rode 31 miles over the course of the three days. We were never lost, we just couldn’t get to where we wanted to be! July 30 through August 3, three members headed to Summer’s Allegheny Trail Ride camp, also referred to as CCC camp, for a five day, four night camping and trail riding trip. The camp is an old Conservation Corp Camp with lots of history. The weather was impossibly hot the first day but cooled down after the rain in the afternoon of the second day. We were able to get in 37 miles of mountain riding over three days, with time for an afternoon nap each day! We ended the month with a work weekend at Mohican. Although the weather was not cooperative, the camp was still in good shape after the Regional Ride and didn’t require much work. There was a tree down on the trails that our faithful and skilled tree removal gang, Dave, Ernie, Marline and Tom, were able to remove.
Heather and Taran Tate had a great show at the Massillon Saddle Club July 27. Heather won her trail class. They also did well at the Valley City Saddle Club show, July 20, winning several second and third place ribbons.
July was a month that beautifully demonstrated the mission and reason we belong to OHC, to encourage responsible horsemanship, to steward our natural spaces, and to build a vibrant, supportive community. From sun washed rides to early-morning trail work, every event brought us together in meaningful ways. As we look ahead to the coming months, we carry with us the memories of July’s adventures and the anticipation of many more to come. Whether you’re riding the highest ridge or lending a helping hand on a workday, your presence is what makes our club truly special. Here’s to many more miles, smiles, and stories shared on the trail.
~Sue Baker
WOOD
Greetings fellow horse lovers!
It seems like summer has flown by, although my electric bill has certainly shown that we have had a doozy of a season this year. Wood County OHC members decided to cancel our scheduled trip to Great Seal State Park in mid-July due to the predicted high temperatures and humidity; as I’ve been saying frequently this summer, “If I wanted to live in Florida, I would’ve moved there!” With September here, it is really time to get ready for our annual regional State Ride, to be held September 19-20 at Van Buren State Park. Numerous activities are planned, along of course, with abundant food! Please check the Northwest Region’s Facebook site for details, and contact members to purchase a raffle ticket, or several tickets. There are three separate prizes up for grabs, including a custom-made campfire ring designed specifically to fit Ohio State campground fire circles. It includes a cook rack and a Dutch oven too! There’s also a gorgeous handmade quilt (thanks Diane!) and a really cute wooden rocking horse that I’m pretty sure I will be testing out at some point during the weekend. Tickets are only $5 each or six for $20. You do not have to be present to win, but it would be more fun for you to join us! Funds raised will be divided between all OHC clubs in the Northwest region and the trails fund.
Several Wood County members are planning a week-long trip to Pennsylvania for the second week of this month. We look forward to sharing photos and our reviews of Hickory Creek Wilderness Campground in further articles. Another exciting upcoming fall event is our annual Hobo Stew extravaganza, renamed this year as Hobo Stew/Soup Fest. Wood County members definitely need to mark their calendars for October 1012 and plan on being at Van Buren State Park for an amazing weekend of fun and food. New this year is a modified menu of stews, chili and soups, rather than the single pot of stew, which required several members to have to tend a fire and a huge kettle all day. This way, everyone will be able to join in the fun of the day. Planned activities include a Chinese auction, a poker ride, movies and kids activities. Please plan on bringing one of the aforementioned menu items to share, along with a side. Since our park now has electric
Parade riders.
Zayden and Tricky
Wayne County OHC
County Lines
on all sites, even people like me without a self-contained camper will be able to participate with a hot dish!
T-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts with this year’s design were sold last month. If any are available after the deadline, Kathy Myers can let you know. Of course, even if you aren’t (yet) an official member of Wood County OHC, we welcome you to join us. Camping is a great way to get to know others and to enjoy our
beautiful park and try out the fun obstacle course with your horse. Please stop by a campsite and introduce yourself if we don’t beat you to it. We look forward to seeing you, and sharing all about the fun activities and trail work that we participate in. We sincerely hope you will attend! Until next month, enjoy every minute you can with your loved ones—two and four-legged! ~Juliann Flage
