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
Tri-County Trail Association
Tri-State Rodeo Association
Wayne County Saddle Club
Western Reserve Carriage Association
The Corral Staff
Editor Bobbie Coalter
Advertising Sales & General Manager Joe Coalter email joe@thehorsemenscorral.com
THE HORSEMEN’S CORRAL is published monthly by Horsemen’s Corral, 8283 Richman Road, Lodi, Ohio 44254. (ISSN 0164-6591). Published as Periodicals at the Lodi Post Office USPS 889-180 with additional entry points of Cleveland, OH 44101 and New Philadelphia, OH 44663. Periodicals postage paid at Lodi, Ohio, and additional entry offices. Subscriptions may only be purchased through Horsemen’s Corral member clubs. Single copies, $3.00 at select distributors. For subscriptions, address changes, and adjustments, write to: Horsemen’s Corral, P.O. Box 32, Lodi, Ohio 44254. Manuscripts, drawings, and other material submitted must be accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope.
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MAILING ADDRESS & PHONE:
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OFFICE: 330/635-4145
Ride In Sync
Ride Like You Walk
by Terry Myers
Anyone who has ever ridden with me in clinics or lessons know that I talk about ‘ride like you walk’ as a way of illustrating some of my riding philosophies. The position of your body when walking should be the same as when in the saddle. This simple principle helps the rider understand how to position their body in a way that will help their horse rather than be a road block for their horse.
To explain, let’s begin with understanding how a horse works. Horses are rear engine models (like the old Volkswagon bugs), they are designed to push or propel themselves from their hind quarters rather than pull themselves with their front end. It is our job as riders to enable a horse to move properly.
Think about how your body is positioned when you walk. When a person walks, their arms move freely and loosely from the shoulders. When you turn, you lead through the shoulder that is
in the direction that you are going. Try this; watch someone walk in a circle. Their inside shoulder is ahead of their outside shoulder. As well, their inside hip is slightly ahead of their outside hip. To be balanced and comfortable when walking in a circle, this body position comes very naturally. To further illustrate, try this. While walking a straight line, pick up your right arm and point to the right. Feel how your body wants to move in that direction.
This same thing happens when you ride. Here is the reason why… as you point to the right, your weight sifts slightly to the right hip while your right shoulder lifts and shifts ahead of the left. This causes the horse to bend around your inside hip, they lift their shoulder and get more engaged in the hind end. Your horse will start to tip their nose to the right and move in that direction. Unfortunately here is how most people try to turn their horse. They pull back on the rein, which pulls
their shoulder back (which drops their shoulder), elbow clamped to their side and the rider’s seat shifts to the opposite side. The horse’s natural reaction is to throw their hip to the outside, drop their inside shoulder, lose their drive from behind and become forehand heavy. This creates an awkward and unbalanced turn. Let’s take the rider off the horse and ask them to walk the same turn with their body in the same position. Try this, walk a circle to the left and take you left arm and pull it way back and clamp in at your side. Notice how awkward and downright uncomfortable it becomes to walk the circle. The reason…you are no longer balanced.
You head plays a large part in being balanced both when you are walking and riding. I’m not calling you a ‘fat’ head, but your head controls an average of 60 percent of your body weight. If your head is out of position, it can put you out of position and throw your horse out of balance. I’ll explain…the rider’s eyes should be focused ahead looking between the horse’s ears, with the head up, not looking down. If the rider tips the head forward, it will distribute the rider’s weight forward and the horse will be heavier on their forehand. The tipping of a forward head will also cause a reaction in the rider’s seat. The pelvis will roll slightly forward impeding forward movement of the horse.
Not convinced? Try walking while looking down. Feel what happens to your body. You will feel your body tip forward as you look down. Tilt your head to
the right and left while walking; feel what happens to your body. Guess what, your horse feels all of that shifting of weight.
To summarize, when you or I walk, we walk with limbs loose and relaxed, move with our head up, looking the direction in which we are going with arms swinging at our sides. When we turn we lead with the inside shoulder, looking the direction we are going. So go ride your horse with these same principles and feel the difference in how your horse moves. When you are balanced, your horse will be balanced. Your horse will usually be a mirror of you.
One final thing to remember… horses don’t make mistakes, people do. If you try to keep this philosophy in the forefront of your mind when working with your horse, you will be a more effective partner.
Questions about this or any of our articles can be emailed to us at myers5000@aol.com.
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.
Western Reserve Carriage Association
National Drive, April 23-26
PRESIDENT, Cathy Rhoades
VICE PRESIDENT, Michele Steven TREASURER, Ann Petersen
SECRETARY, Cathy Rhoades
WEBSITE, Westernreservecarriage.com
by Barb King
As I write this it’s raining, foggy and 55 degrees. To say the least, this winter in Ohio has been a challenge. Do we wear coveralls, winter coat, mud boots, choose from five pairs of gloves and five different hats? Welcome spring!
We had our winter meeting on February 22 at Fieldstone Farm in Chagrin Falls. Always a beautiful venue, we started our meeting with Vice President Michele Steven welcoming us and sharing with us the loss of two long time members, Eleanor (Polly) Peterson and Sunny
Jones. We learned the next day that a beloved member, Kay Rish passed away. We are all saddened by these losses and wishing the families peace and comfort. Our guest speaker this year was Dr. Michael Geiger, speaking about winter care for horses. He is extremely knowledgeable and lots of notes were taken.
We will be having a raffle at each of our events this year for Big Dee $25-$50 gift certificates. In addition, each event you attend will give you a chance at a $250 certificate at the end of the year. April 12 will be an Alternative Vet Clinic at Golden Horse Farm. Gather at 11:30 a.m., eat at noon and clinic starts at 12:30 p.m. You can bring your horse for PEMF treatment. Contact Barb King for more information. There will be a GLADS clinic April 16-19 and the Spring National Drive will be April 2326.
Western Dressage Train the Western Dressage Horse in Front of You
by Kelley Bitter
Every western dressage rider visualizes the perfect test. You picture a horse that moves with ultimate lightness, executing seamless transitions and maintaining a soft, relaxed frame. We memorize our tests, study the judges’ scorecards, and set ambitious goals for the show season. But what happens when the horse you saddle up doesn’t match the harmonious partner in your imagination? The answer is simple and deeply rooted in classical horsemanship: you must train the horse in front of you.
This core principle forms the foundation of western dressage. It requires you to release rigid expectations and embrace the unique stock horse, Arabian, or draft cross standing in your barn. It means evaluating their specific strengths, understanding their physical challenges, and designing a training program that is flexible and progressive.
Today we explore how to set realistic goals and adapt your training to build a brilliant western dressage partnership. You will learn practical exercises for relaxation, understand how to navigate setbacks, and discover the importance of finding the right support.
Acknowledging Your Starting Point
Before you ride down the centerline, you must know exactly where your training currently stands. Complete honesty is your best tool. Evaluating your horse’s current abilities and your own riding skills is never a judgment. It is simply the baseline for your journey.
Consider Tom, an amateur rider who recently transitioned to western dressage with his Quarter Horse, Buster. Tom watched videos of top riders gliding through Level 2 tests with one-handed turnarounds and collected lopes. He wanted that immediate harmony. However, Buster
was a former barrel horse. He was quick, anxious, and naturally hollow in his back. When Tom picked up the reins and asked for a slow, cadenced jog, Buster threw his head up and rushed. Tom’s frustration grew, and the dream of riding a smooth western dressage test felt impossible.
Tom had to pause and rethink his approach. He realized Buster was not the relaxed, balanced horse he wanted him to be just yet. Buster was an athletic, sensitive gelding who needed to learn a completely new way of carrying his body. Tom also admitted his own hands were too quick, causing Buster to brace. Their true starting point was not a Level 2 test. Their starting point was finding a relaxed walk on a draped rein.
Setting Realistic and Progressive Goals
Once you establish a clear starting point, you can map out your training goals. The secret is to make these goals progressive. You must break down complex movements into small, highly achievable steps. If your goal is a balanced, collected lope, but your horse rushes into the jog, you cannot skip the foundational steps.
Your progression in western dressage might look like this:
First, focus entirely on rhythm and relaxation at the walk. Ask your horse to stretch over their topline and seek the bit without rushing.
Second, introduce the working jog on a large 20-meter circle. Prioritize a steady rhythm over the exact head carriage.
Third, ask for simple transitions between the walk and the jog. Ensure the horse stays soft in the bridle and responsive to your seat. Finally, once the jog is balanced and relaxed, begin preparing for the lope departure using clear half-halts and correct bend.
Each small step builds upon the previous one. This creates a solid foundation of success that boosts your horse’s confidence and willingness to work. You are still aiming for that perfect lope, but you are building the physical strength and mental trust required to achieve it.
Western Dressage Exercises for Harmony
To help your horse progress, you need practical exercises tailored to the demands of western dressage. These exercises focus on suppleness, relaxation, and responsiveness to your seat and legs.
Exercise 1: Mastering Downward Transitions
Transitions are the lifeblood of a good western dressage test. They test your horse’s balance and your ability to ride from your seat rather than your hands.
Start tracking right at a working jog on the rail. As you approach a specific letter, prepare for a downward transition to the walk. Deepen your seat, exhale loudly, and close your thighs slightly. Keep your hands soft. If your horse does not respond to your seat, close your fingers gently on the reins until they walk, then immediately soften. Repeat this exercise frequently. Your goal is to have the horse step smoothly down into the walk purely off your seat and breathing, eliminating any brace in the jaw or neck.
Exercise 2: Introduction to Lateral Work
Lateral work improves suppleness and helps the horse step deeper under their body. The leg-yield is a perfect starting point for western dressage horses.
Begin at an active, marching walk down the quarter line. If you are tracking left, apply your right leg slightly behind the girth to ask the horse to step sideways toward the rail. Keep your horse’s body relatively straight, with a slight flexion away from the direction of travel.
Ask for just two or three quality sideways steps, then ride straight forward. Reward your horse for their effort. This exercise teaches the horse to move away from leg pressure while remaining relaxed in their topline.
The Art of Flexibility: Adapting to Change
Horses have good days, bad days, and days where they feel completely uncoordinated. A rigid training schedule fails because it ignores the reality of working with a living animal. True horsemanship requires flexibility.
Imagine you planned to school the lope departures for your upcoming Intro Level test, but your horse feels stiff and distracted during the warm-up. Forcing the lope will only create tension and a hollow frame. A flexible rider recognizes this issue immediately. Instead of fighting for the lope, change your plan. Spend the session working on walking serpentines, bending through the ribcage, and practicing backing up softly. You still accomplish a productive ride that addresses your horse’s stiffness, making them better prepared for lope departures the next day.
Knowing when to seek help is equally crucial. A qualified clinician or instructor offers an invaluable perspective from the ground. They spot alignment issues you cannot feel and provide exercises tailored to your horse’s specific conformation.
Tom realized he needed help navigating Buster’s anxiety. He started working with a trainer who specialized in transitioning stock horses to western dressage. The trainer taught Tom how to use his seat more effectively and provided groundwork exercises to build Buster’s trust. This guidance completely transformed their partnership.
True horsemanship requires flexibility.
A year later, Tom and Buster rode down the centerline at their first local show. They rode an Intro Level test. They didn’t have a collected lope or flashy turnarounds. Instead, they showcased a relaxed, rhythmic walk, a soft jog, and a horse that willingly listened to his rider. Tom achieved true harmony by training the horse in front of him.
Tom and Buster relied heavily on this flexibility. Some days, their biggest victory was simply halting squarely without Buster tossing his head. Tom stopped looking at the calendar and started feeling his horse. He adapted his daily goals to match the horse he had underneath him that exact day.
Managing Setbacks and Seeking Guidance
Setbacks happen to every rider. Your horse might develop a resistance to the bit, struggle with a specific lead, or become anxious in new arenas. How you manage these hurdles defines your success as a rider.
Always view setbacks as valuable information. If your horse starts rushing the jog, do not label them as disobedient. Ask yourself why it is happening. Are they off-balance? Is your saddle pinching? Are your reins too tight? Overcoming a setback requires you to find the root cause rather than punishing the symptom.
Take the Next Step in Your Western Dressage Journey
Training the horse in front of you is a lifelong process of patience, education, and adaptability. It demands that you celebrate the small, quiet victories. If you are ready to refine your aids, improve your horse’s suppleness, and achieve your goals in the western dressage arena, professional guidance makes all the difference.
Eagles Nest Equestrian in Ravenna, Ohio, is dedicated to helping you build that perfect partnership. We offer monthly clinics specifically designed for Western dressage riders of all levels. Our experienced instructors will help you assess your current foundation, set realistic training goals, and gain the confidence you need to shine in the show ring. Check out our Facebook page for upcoming events and visit our website at eaglesnestequestrian.com to secure your spot in our next clinic. Let us help you and your horse reach your full potential together.
Wayne County Saddle Club
Added Shows to Reach a Broader Audience
PRESIDENT, Keith Holcombe VICE PRESIDENTS, Jamie Carlisle, Angel Bonewitz; SECRETARY, Andrea Paolucci; TREASURER, Beth Eikleberry WEBSITE, www.waynecountysaddleclub.com
by Jamie Carlisle
In our last article, we highlighted some of our early spring offerings and traditional shows. This year the Wayne County Saddle Club (WCSC) Board decided to branch out and add shows that would not only reach a broader audience but provide greater opportunities for our horse-riding community to compete.
One such example is our upcoming 4H PAS Show. We’ll hold this show at our arena on Saturday, May 16 starting at 9 a.m. Vicky Dunn will be the judge for the day. We reached out to another local show judge, Alex DeWitt, and asked for her
thoughts, “Hosting a PAS show at the WCSC is an exciting opportunity for youth in our area to compete, grow, and show the hard work they put into their horses. The Hollow has always been a place that supports riders and encourages them to keep learning and improving, so it’s a great fit for an event like this.”
Just as Alex pointed out, we find it important to provide this qualifying event for our local youth so that they don’t have to travel too far from home to qualify for State.
In an effort to support our horse community, we’ll keep entry fees affordable and provide classes that range from western and English showmanship, to ranch,
to trail, to barrels and poles. Keep an eye out for our showbill which we’ll be posting soon on our Facebook page. Alex also stated, “Because PAS is a state qualifying show, it also gives riders the chance to work toward a bigger goal and represent their hard work at the next level.” The PAS show layers nicely with our other offerings. Contestants can participate in our pleasure and contest shows to practice their horsemanship and/or running skills. We want youth to use our club as a stepping block along their journey. It is also our hope in the future that we can offer other high-level shows for riders to show off their skills and compete.
Staying true to our commitment to offering good horsemanship opportunities, we have three clinics this spring. Our Britney Butzer Breakaway Roping Clinic held March 29 was sold out. Spots remain for the Janessa Hill ‘Go Back to Basics’ Clinic on May 17. This clinic focuses on collection, a balanced seat, and tack adjustments. Lastly, Brady Hart is offering a two-day pole bending clinic at our arena. We hope to see you at The Hollow soon!
The arena at The Hollow.
We want to make horse adoption just as commonplace as dog and cat adoption—in our opinion, it’s the smartest way to go about adding a horse to your life! Please read on to learn about the many benefits and advantages to adoption.
(If you’re already convinced that adopting a horse is right for you, go to the head of the class by visiting My Right Horse to browse hundreds of adoptable horses nationwide.) [https://www. myrighthorse.org/]
You get a horse! Forgive us for stating the obvious, but when you adopt a horse you end up with a horse and that’s undoubtedly the best part of adoption! Whether you want to learn to ride and hit the trails with your new equine best friend, or want to bond with your new pal during a long grooming session, adopting a horse will undoubtedly bring joy into your life. There are so many amazing benefits to owning horses, and adoption is a great way to experience them all!
You help other horses! You likely already know how important adoption is to improving the lives of vulnerable animals. It’s the same for horses: by adopting a horse, you’re freeing up a stall and resources for the rescue to be able to help the next at-risk horse. Adoption is a sustainable, and lifesaving, way to acquire a horse.
You find the Right Match! Making the right match between a horse and their owner is critical for the success and happiness of all involved. Fortunately, adopting a horse is the perfect way to ensure you’re finding the #RightHorse for your needs. The ASPCA’s Right Horse Adoption Partners are experts at matching good people with good horses. They’re transparent about their horse’s personalities, medical history and training, and are genuinely invested in making sure that their adopters and horses are appropriately suited for each other.
You become part of the community! When you adopt from one of ASPCA’s Right Horse Adoption Partners, you enter a community of adopters and passionate horse people. If you’re new to horses, the adoption group will be an invaluable resource if you have questions or need support during your horse-ownership journey. Likewise, many of our partners facilitate community events between adopters so you can quickly meet some like-minded barn buddies.
You have support! Similar to the support that the ASPCA’s Right Horse Adoption Partners will provide if you ever have questions, they’ll also assist in rehoming your horse if your life circumstances ever change. Our Adoption Partners provide a life-long safety net for their horses, so if for some reason you’re no longer able to care for your horse, you can rest easy knowing that the rescue will be able to place him into another loving home.
Your Right Horse can do it all! Adoptable horses are as versatile as the general horse population. Whether you’ve got blue ribbon ambitions and are an experienced rider looking for a competitive prospect, or are new to caring for horses, you can find your #RightHorse through adoption. Adoptable horses come in every breed, age, experience level and size, ensuring that you’ll be able to find the right horse to fit you and your family’s needs. [https://www.myrighthorse.org/]
Do we have you convinced and ready to adopt a horse? Great! If you’re ready to learn more about equine adoption and support at-risk horses, visit My Right Horse. There you can browse hundreds of adoptable horses, learn more about the adoption process, and easily share your favorite horses on social media to help connect the right horse to the right person. Plus, access the Horse Illustrated Resource Hub to learn more about horses.
Ohio High School Rodeo Association
Starting the Spring Season
NATIONAL DIRECTOR, Nikki McCarty
PRESIDENT, Chelsea Schoch
SECRETARY, Holly Rowe
PHONE, 419/651-0111
WEBSITE, www.ohiohighschoolrodeo.org
by Emery Scott Student Vice President
Ohio High School Rodeo Association (OHSRA) is starting its spring season in just a few weeks. Members of OHSRA are gearing up to compete, reconnect, and set the tone for a strong finish to the season. To start off our spring season Cowboy Prom will be hosted that Saturday night, bringing everyone together after a long day of competition.
The association just hosted the State Mid-Winter Meeting. We got to elect new officers through different districts. We were also able to discuss where nationals will be held for the next few years. Our National Director,
Nikki McCarty, was able to bring helpful information back from the National Mid-Winter Meeting. We took the time to learn about new rules for the association.
The high school officers got the opportunity to raffle off a national book and a lavish gift basket; the money raised will go to help fund Cowboy Prom. High school officers were also able to introduce themselves as well as the junior high officers. They each got the chance to say what they do in their officer position if anyone was interested in running this coming year. Members were able to spend time bowling and having a good time with others.
If you are interested in joining the rodeo community, extending your time with the association, or simply curious about how to sign up, visit our website at www.ohiohighschoolrodeo.org or check out our F acebook 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.
Eliminate the flies, mosquitos, spiders and pests once and for all!
by Kelly Jo Heffner
Happy spring to everyone in the reading area. It’s finally looking like spring here in Northeast Ohio! The grass is turning greener by the day, the daffodils have all broken through the ground and are getting ready to bloom, and the campground is now open for campers and visitors!
Tri-County has many trail projects going on this year, including some bridge repair projects and trail maintenance projects that will include laying down a layer of gravel in some
of the areas that had been washed away in the wetter weather. These trail improvements will be very nice for our riders. This season will be one of the best to come and check out the camp and all the trails that we have to offer!
Our ‘Spring Fling’ event is coming up in May. This event has new hosts and is being introduced similar to a carnival! There will be entertainment after the dinner service on Saturday. There will be games for the kids, as well as face painting and other fun things to do for everyone of all ages! Please make sure to visit our webpage at TriCoTrails.com to see the flyer and pre-register! This event will be one of the best this year!
Tri-County Trail is looking forward to seeing all those familiar faces this season as well as meeting some new people. And a very happy spring to one and all!
40’x64’x14’ 1-20’x14’ Slide Door 1-3’x6’ Walk-In Door Trusses 4’ O.C. $29,775 Erected
60’x96’x16’ 1-20’x14’ Slide Door 1-24’x16’ Slide Door
Erected
70’x120’x16’ 1-20’x14’ Slide Door 1-24’x16’ Slide Door 1 Walk-In Door Trusses 4’ O.C. $87,500 Erected
Flatlanders Dressage & Combined Training Association, Inc.
Make a Positive Change
PRESIDENT, Margie Shoop
VICE PRESIDENT, Heather Bonifas
TREASURER, Lisa Gross
SECRETARY, Lee Ann Kagy
EMAIL, fdcta@aol.com
FACEBOOK, www.facebook.com/ groups/FDCTA
by Heather Bonifas
“The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”—Saint Bernard of Clairvaux
Now that I have your attention, let me give you some context of where I am coming from. Our club is in the process of planning the year with fun days, clinics, programs, and the like. We have a few dates written down and are looking forward to another riding season. We have entered the Equine Affaire, Ohio, on the calendar for some learning opportunities, shopping, selling, and just plain enjoyment of the equine world. There are a myriad of other equestrian events in the coming weeks and months that
would be a great day trip, show, or fulfilling educational challenge. The University of Findlay is hosting several different events, for example. Check out the calendar section of this publication so discover several to commit to this spring, summer and autumn. If you are blessed to have a trainer that is available, book them. Here is the rub! If you want to make a positive change in your relationship with the horse or horses in your life and you want to learn more skills to make that happen, you actually have to commit to getting to these types of events. Just wanting to ‘maybe get to something’ is not going to materialize into you making it into anything. Really planning your schedule, writing it in ink on paper, and letting others know about your intentions will make those plans happen more readily. Grab a buddy. Go together. Make it happen. Good riding weather will slip away faster than ever. Our last meeting on March 3 was hosted by a newer member, Michelle Clay. She invited the club members to her stunning home outside of Ada, Ohio.
Thank you Michelle! Two of her grown sons gave the presentation that evening highlighting how being involved with horses while growing up (specifically through the local 4-H program) had impacted their lives in a positive way. Dawson and Derrick were quick to give their personal perspectives on their experiences living with, training, and learning on the selection of horses they were provided by their parents. During and after their presentation, they invited the attending members to share their own most poignant memories and pivotal moments involving horses. Everyone shared their love of horses by relating personal stories of beloved equines in their histories. Some began from a very
young age of owning and growing up with them, others wanted, but had to wait much longer before they were able to have one to call their own. No matter the length of time, all of the members related their deep love and appreciation for having been afforded the grace of horse ownership and interactions. The connections run deep for all of us, that’s why we enjoy having a club like the Flatlanders to share that joy. We had our business meeting after another delicious carry-in style meal. Thank you to all for being generous with your time, talents and commitment. God bless your spring with great riding weather, health, and many enrichment activities. Until next month, ride with gratitude.
Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Association
Congratulations to 2025 Season Class Champions
PRESIDENT, Donnie Uffner
VICE PRESIDENT, Justin Miller
TREASURER, Kris Geiger
SECRETARY, Charlotte Miller
PHONE, 740/877-7993
EMAIL, ofqhashows@gmail.com
WEBSITE, http://ohfqha.com
by Charlotte Miller
On March 14 Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Association (OFQHA) hosted their 2025 awards banquet celebrating all the hard work of members and directors. The event was held at the Southgate Hotel in Cambridge, Ohio, with an amazing catered dinner provided by Shirley and Ron Goodpaster.
Congratulations to our 2025 season class champions:
MODIFIED RANCH RIDERS: Ben Dryer, Kyle Frizzell, Russell Law, Grayson King
CUTTING: Jim Colopy
GREEN CUTTING: Debbie Roenigk
NOVICE CUTTING: Dean Dryer
YOUTH CUTTING: Jt Dryer
RANCH ROPING: Tom Karr
YOUTH RANCH ROPING: Daxton Farr
YOUTH RANCH CUTTING: Jt Dryer
GREEN RANCH CUTTING: Dave Watt
NOVICE RANCH CUTTING: Dean
Dryer & Paige Watt
RANCH CUTTING: Melissa Miller
BOXING: Sam Parkinson
BOX DRIVE BOX: Melissa Miller
GREEN BOXING: Dave Watt
NOVICE BOXING: Paige Watt
YOUTH BOXING: Lauren Morris
GREEN BOX DRIVE BOX: Dave Watt
NOVICE BOX DRIVE BOX: Dean Dryer
YOUTH BOX DRIVE BOX: Lauren Morris
RANCH BOXING: Melissa Miller
WALK/TROT RANCH RIDING: Kris Geiger
YOUTH WALK/TROT RANCH RIDING: Andrea Simmons
NOVICE WALK/TROT RANCH RIDING: Deb Lowenstein
RANCH RIDING: Tiffany Schweitzer
YOUTH RANCH RIDING: Daxton Farr
RANCH REINING: Janice Wilson
YOUTH REINING: Analiese Eshler
GREEN REINING: Lisa Kreis
NOVICE REINING: Dean Dryer
RANCH CONFORMATION: Lisa Kreis
YOUTH CONFORMATION: Daxton Farr
2&UNDER CONFORMATION: Lisa Kreis
RANCH TRAIL: Sam Parkinson
YOUTH RANCH TRAIL: Annaliesse Eshler
W/T RANCH TRAIL: Jody Atkinson
NOVICE W/T TRAIL: Paige Watt
W/T YOUTH TRAIL: Andrea Simmons
IN-HAND TRAIL: Lisa Kreis
RANCHMANSHIP: Dale Brennemen
YOUTH RANCHMANSHIP: Annaliese Eshler
W/T RANCHMANSHIP: Bill Herder
NOVICE W/T RANCHMANSHIP: Stacy Herder
YOUTH W/T RANCHMANSHIP: Andrea Simmons
Additional congratulations to the Over-All Champions: HIGH POINT YOUTH: Annaliese Eshler HIGH POINT ADULT: Sam Parkinson
Special thanks to our amazing gatekeeper Kyle Frizzell. We look forward to seeing everyone at our first show on May 2!
Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros
PRESIDENT, Mike Sheets
VICE PRESIDENT, John Truman
TREASURER, Jessica Sheets
SECRETARY, Christy Pellegrino
EMAIL, nvirzi@yahoo.com
WEBSITE, www.lakeerievaqueros.net
by Nancy Virzi (Go
Congratulations to Ed Heafner. His logo design was chosen to be our new logo. We had a number of really good ideas. Thank you to everyone who submitted an idea. It looks like spring is here! The tulips are coming up. The crocuses are blooming, and the birds are singing. Time to get practicing running and gunning. I had the opportunity to take
The new logo for LEMV.
a couple of courses at Penley Horsemanship and they were great. If you’re looking to get better at shooting I would suggest getting a hold of them and taking some of their classes.
The banquet is coming up. The banquet committee has been working hard to make it a success. I hope to see good friends and eat some really good food.
Thank you to our great sponsors: Big Dee’s Tack, Kiko Meat, Agile Equine Bodywork’s, Siracki Realty and Jefferson Mill. Thank you for your support.
PRESIDENT, Holly Carr
Dusty Boots Riding Club Annual Awards Banquet
1st VICE PRESIDENT, Dana Johnson
TREASURER, Donna Rohrer
SECRETARY, Harley Buckley
EMAIL, dustyboots@dustybootsridingclub.com
WEBSITE, dustybootsridingclub.com
by Sarah Fabian
The Dusty Boots Riding Club’s awards banquet was a spectacular wrap to an incredible year! Riders beamed with pride as they celebrated their achievements from show season wins to personal milestones. We would like to give a huge congratulations to our eight division winners for the 2025 season!
OPEN: Maebree Fabian
NOVICE: Makayla Olsen
19 & OVER: Jessica Slansky
18 & UNDER: Riley Edwards
WALK TROT 13 & UNDER: Mia Carr
RANCH 18 & UNDER: Gavin Coelho
RANCH 19 & OVER: Allison Redman
As we looked back on the laughter, learning, and
accomplishments, we are already buzzing with excitement for the coming season. With new skills to master and new classes to conquer, we’re geared up and ready to saddle up. Bring on the new show season and mark your calendars—2026 show dates are live!
MAY 24: Blue Lakes, Newbury, Ohio
JUNE 13-14: Jefferson, Ohio
JUNE 27-28: Trumbull County Fairgrounds
AUG. 22-23: Jefferson, Ohio
SEPT. 12-13: Trumbull County Fairgrounds
We look forward to seeing everyone this coming season. We have worked tirelessly on providing a great a show. The amazing team behind all the decisions makes all the difference!
runs smoothly. Here’s to our incredible crew—we couldn’t do it without you! Our 2026 team—President Holly Carr, First Vice President Dana Johnson, Second Vice President Dawn Allison, Treasurer Donna Rhorer, Secretary Harley Buckley.
Directors: Dana Johnson, Darlene Morrison, Kim Brewster, Sarah Fabian, Josie Nicholas, Caitlyn Visnosky, Dawn Allison, Donna Rohrer, Harley Buckley, Robert Blakemore.
Show Stewards: Donna Rohrer, Holly Carr, Robert Blakemore. We always welcome our members to attend the monthly meetings. Feel free to catch us at McDonald’s with new ideas (Jefferson, Ohio) on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Stay updated on Facebook: NEOHA
Visit our website for our showbill, rules, membership and more: dustybootsridingclub.com
Big shoutout to Big Dee’s and Schneiders Saddlery for rockin’ our 2025 show season and banquet!
The Dusty Boots Riding Club is blessed with dedicated leaders and members who donate their time to make sure everything
Check back next month as we congratulate and recognize our newly crowned queen and princess for 2026! We will be highlighting our 2025 junior and senior royalty contestants!
Spring symbolizes the beginning of the show season. No doubt some have been showing since January in Florida and virtually at home, but the real show season begins in the spring. Are you feeling the excitement of the new season?
A fun aspect about equestrian sport is it renewed each year just like the seasons. It doesn’t matter what you have done the year before, the slate is clean for the new year. We have all the chance to win or experience the event at local, regional and
national shows, we enjoyed year end awards and seeing our names in GMO associations year end awards books and on the national leaderboards of USEF, WDAA and AQHA. That magical feeling keeps us coming back to begin a new season and attracts new participants to our sport. The opportunity that lies ahead is unknown but attainable. We all have a shot at our 15 minutes of greatness. It’s time to make the most of it. Renew your memberships and optismism while looking forward to a great year. You are all champions in the making and you will have shots at greatness. Make the best of 2026!
OUR SHOW DATES
JUNE 7: Schooling show, Strawberry Moon
JUNE 20: June Jubilation, WDAA/AQAH
JULY 10-12: The Classic
SEPT. 5-6: East Meets West
by Robert Eversole
IDon’t Ride Without Nerves: Fear, Focus, and the Trail Between. About six months after I discovered gravity in the Three Sisters Wilderness, and after surgeons had put me back together, I swung a leg over my mule and realized something had changed.
Anxiety
That was nine years ago now. Time sands down the sharp edges of a story, but it doesn’t erase the lesson. The bones in my shoulder healed into something that resembles a jigsaw puzzle on X-ray. Surgeons rebuilt it. Time reinforced it. My mind and confidence, however, did not rebound so easily.
That first ride back is still a sharp memory. My arm felt unreliable, but that wasn’t the real issue; my anxiety was. The challenge was the surge that hit my chest before I even settled into the saddle. My heart pounded. My breathing stalled. My vision narrowed. My brain, eager to protect me, began replaying worst-case scenarios like a film I hadn’t agreed to watch. The joy that I remembered feeling in the saddle was replaced with fear. I’ve always been tightly sprung, that wasn’t new. But this level of anxiousness and fear in the saddle was. The backcountry isn’t a groomed arena. Terrain shifts.
Weather arrives unannounced. Wildlife appears. Horses spook. Help is measured in miles. Your brain registers those variables long before your ego does.
When the alarm system engages, adrenaline follows. Heart rate rises. Breathing quickens. Attention sharpens. These aren’t flaws in the design. They’re survival features.
Anxiety is not a weakness. It is awareness created to protect. Without it, we take foolish risks. We skip checking cinches. We ride into storms without rain gear. We forget to tell anyone where we’re headed. A healthy edge makes you pause at the trailhead. It makes you study a narrow stretch of trail. It motivates you to prepare and be better. It makes you pack what you hope you won’t need.
nervous system settle. Confidence isn’t bravado. It’s familiarity. The brain calms when it recognizes something as known instead of unknown.
Preparation became my antidote to uncertainty. I checked tack carefully. Carried what I might need. Let someone know my route. Practiced obstacles at home before meeting them miles from the truck. Each uneventful ride told my brain, you’ve handled this before and you can do it again. It was slow. Slower than pride prefers. Humbling like only the backcountry and equines can.
Anxiety often grows from thoughts rather than facts and what ifs, but when left unchecked multiplies the what ifs to disasters and insurmountable situations. I learned to answer them with evidence instead of imagination. I know I have the skills and learned to talk myself into believing I did to answer those questions. I have prepared. I have handled difficult rides before. That isn’t blind optimism. It’s a disciplined and reasonable fact.
But there is a tipping point. When fear climbs too high, the brain shifts from thoughtful decision-making to raw survival mode. Tunnel vision sets in. Fine motor skills degrade. Riders who have handled difficult terrain for years suddenly say, “I just locked up.” It transforms a once fun and joyful experience into a terrifying and painful one.
Understanding the machinery takes some of the power out of it. You stop being afraid of the reaction itself.
There’s also a difference between instinct and panic. Instinct is calm and clear. It says, “This trail is too slick today,” or “My horse feels off.” Panic is loud and vague. It says, “Everything is dangerous.”
“You can’t do this.” Experience teaches the difference when we’re paying attention.
After my fall, I didn’t try to overpower fear. I rebuilt confidence the same way I teach riders to build skill: preparation and repetition. Baby steps to being stronger than before.
My first rides back were short and deliberate. Sometimes, they were nothing more than sitting quietly in the saddle and letting my
Breathing helps. Slow inhale through the nose. Slow exhale through the mouth. That simple act nudges the nervous system toward calm. Grounding helps too. Notice what you see. What you hear. What you feel under the saddle. Using all your senses. Anxiety lives in future uncertainty. Competence lives in present awareness.
Recently, while leading trail riding and expo clinics, I met Carol von Michaelis, PhD, PAC, a medical provider and a rider who has also dealt with a history of riding anxiety. Part of her focus has looked at the science behind fear and how to overcome it when it stops you from doing what you love to do. Over coffee and conversation, we realized I’m not the only rider who has wrestled with anxiety in the saddle.
So, we’re putting together a trial run of talks at some upcoming clinics. Not to eliminate nerves. To understand them. To help
Please turn to page 32 S
If you want the deeper dive, thinking through trail safety, preparation, and decision-making from A to Z, my books are available through Amazon and on the site: The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping, It’s a Cinch!, and Daily Wisdom from the Saddle. They’re not about shortcuts or silver bullets. They’re about what works, lessons learned the hard way, and the long view that only comes from miles in the saddle. Same work. Just written down for when you need a reminder.
PRESIDENT, Leanne
Saddle Club
VICE PRESIDENT (PLEASURE), Alyssa
SECRETARY, Francine
TREASURER, Kathy
EMAIL, massillonsaddleclub@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.massillonsaddleclub.org
Happy spring! The Massillon Saddle Club (MSC) show season has not yet started, however plans for shows, programs, and events have. Plans are still pending on a few items. Listed here are the shows and events that are already posted to the MSC Facebook page.
Watch the MSC Facebook page for all updates as well as the 2026 showbills. Please note that the early spring events could be postponed/rescheduled if the ground conditions at the show grounds will not support the weight of a truck/trailer.
The VP Pleasure, Alyssa, has added some classes, and, brought back some of the classic ones. Training classes will return, as well as the Quarter Horse classes.
Fuzzy Show Scheduled for May
Additional Small Fry and Youth classes have been added, including a Ranch leadline class, and a Ranch Small Fry class. The trail classes will return, but, will be run at the end of the show after the Western Pleasure and Ranch classes. Also added is a ‘Fuzzy’ show. This show will not be a point show; there will not be a judge, and, it will not count towards year end awards. The ‘Fuzzy’ show is a way to get your horse in the arena before a point show. No show clothes or show tack needed. The showbill also includes a trail/obstacle course, with the option of choosing to ride the obstacle course only. The course can also be done in hand for anyone. There will be an ‘all day’ fee for those who want to ride in multiple classes. Class fees are similar to fun show fees. See the MSC Facebook page for specifics. Here are the show dates, events, and proposed show grounds clean up dates for 2026:
APRIL 4: Joint MSC and Wayne County Saddle Club Tack Swap at the Wayne County Fairgrounds from 9 a.m. to 2
p.m. Our Facebook page contains information about the event.
MAY 9: An Equine Health Day. Buckeye Feeds will have a presentation before the June 1 meeting.
New this year is the Spring Trailer Day to help you get your trailer road ready for 2026. The event will have pressure washing of the interior, exterior, or, both interior and exterior of the trailer. A physical walk around can be scheduled to determine if tires or bearings may need to be checked. There will be vendors on site if you would like to speak to someone about rubber flooring for the trailer interior, as well as a beginner trailer how-to. Please see the MSC Facebook page for the re-scheduled date.
Plans are being made for a Horseless Horse Rodeo with stick horse races, instruction on ground roping, sled roping, rope and run, and, goat tying. This is open to the public, with an invitation for the neighborhood children. Date to be determined.
APRIL 11: Cleanup date and if needed, April 18. Both days begin at 11 a.m.
MAY 24: Fuzzy Show
2026 Fun Show dates are April 19, May 31, and October 18 for the Fun Show/Halloween Show.
2026 Contest Shows are June 28, July 26, August 23, September 27 and October 4.
Anxiety
Continued from page 30
embrace them. To help riders work with them instead of fighting them. To help get back to enjoying your ride.
Nine years out, I don’t ride without nerves. I ride with them. Some days are better than others; some nerves are more understandable than others.
Anxiety didn’t end my riding. It refined and sharpened it. It
2026 Pleasure Shows are June 7, June 14, July 12, August 9, and, September 6.
Jackpot Barrels and Poles Buckle Series show dates are May 30, June 13, August 15 and August 29.
2026 will bring the continuation of the trail riding program, and, the medal buy back. For more information, please see the MSC website and Facebook page
The Junior Trustees have scheduled a few events: Versatility Show on September 19 will begin at 11 a.m. with a pay out for each class with 10 or more entries. August 1 will be the Back To School Fun Show with unlimited runs at $2 each. Show begins at noon. There will also be a Thursday night expo of poles and barrels once each month. Unlimited runs are $2 each. Watch the MSC Facebook page as dates are pending. Watch the MSC Facebook page for additional events; the MSC Junior Trustees are finalizing plans for an event or two.
MSC hopes everyone has a happy April, and is able to enjoy the more spring-like days to attend some of the horse events as well as to spend time with your family, friends, and horses. May each of your days be filled with happy horse adventures! ~Your Friends with Massillon Saddle Club, Inc.
made me slower at the trailhead and steadier in the saddle. It made me less impressed with confidence and more respectful of preparation.
Courage, I’ve learned, isn’t the absence of fear. It’s the decision to move forward, prepared and steady anyway.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a mule to saddle.
The Cowboy Perseverance Ranch
Five Out of Five
by Rob and Tanya Corzatt
Cowboy Perseverance Ranch began back in Sunbury around 2013 with a few students taking lessons on the two horses we owned. We used our neighbor’s indoor arena when the weather was bad. Thirteen years later at our place in Marengo, it is rare if there are less than 20 horses here at any given time. Half of them belong to us or our son and daughter-in-law and all of them are used routinely for groundwork or time in the saddle. All the students have their favorites and that certainly adds to their experience when they find out they get to work with their favorites. When we first started, most of our new business came from our clients talking to their horse acquaintances. As the business grew, so did the wordof-mouth recommendations. As a family owned and operated small business, we essentially live or die by the quality of the services we provide. I am not a particular fan or user of any of the social media
platforms. But they have their use and T started a Facebook page and webpage for the business many years ago. We started getting calls from people that just happened to find us on the Internet. We started getting reviews on Google and Facebook and they were all positive. That plus the fact that we made it clear that we were a God-fearing barn that would share scripture at every lesson, evidently appealed to a lot of people. We currently have scheduled lessons with over 40 different students throughout the week and clinics once a month. That does not include the additional lessons and clinics our son and daughter-inlaw conduct with the ranch roping and cow work. Our barn is a very, very busy place! Up until this past January, I don’t believe we had ever gotten a negative public review.
A little context is necessary before I provide some of the details of the negative review. Because we have grown so much, it became necessary for us to implement a universal payment
and cancellation policy. In our early days, it was not uncommon for a student/parent to contact us the day of a lesson and say they wouldn’t be there that day. Others didn’t even contact us. We reserved a time slot each week that could not be filled on such short notice. Chances are we spent a bit of time getting a horse ready and getting the arena floor prepped. Regardless, we still had to pay to feed the horses and turn the lights on. And we had, and still have, a waiting list of others that want to begin lessons here. Hence, the necessity for the policies. Now our policy is that payment is made at the beginning of each month for the entire month. We certainly understand that events occur that prevent our students attending from time to time and if that happens, we do try to make up that lesson at another time during the week or double up on a following week. We do not expect people to try to get here during severe weather when travel on the roads is unsafe. However, we don’t let extreme heat or cold from stopping us. At those times, when it is too hot or too cold to safely work with the horses, we undertake other learning activities in the comfort of our climate-controlled tack room or inside our house. Most all of our students want to be future horse owners, trainers, exhibitors, etc. There is more to horsemanship than just riding a horse. The younger students may spend a session learning the parts of a horse or the names and parts of the tack they might use. The older kids and adults may come into the house and watch assorted videos on ranch riding, reining, advanced horse care and nutrition, etc. We are blessed with a bunch of students that really want to learn all they can and so it was never an issue when they didn’t get to physically work with a horse.
If you recall, we had some bitterly cold weather here in central Ohio in January. We cancelled lessons for a couple of days because the roads were still in pretty bad shape around here. But once the roads were cleared, we let everyone know we were still going to have lessons but that they were going to be inside because of the cold. Apparently, the parents of a fairly recent student reached out to let us know
Tanya and Rob Corzatt
that if they weren’t riding, they weren’t coming and wanted their money back. After explaining our policy again, they became very frustrated and we haven’t seen them since. Although we did not offer to reimburse them for that day, we did try to reach out and let them know we would refund the remainder of the month’s lessons if they had no intention of returning. It was a situation where some better communication up front about our policies would have prevented the unpleasant situation in the first place. However, in this case the student was old enough to drive themself to the lessons. We never got to meet the parents that had to sign the waiver and the checks for the lesson payment. Unfortunately, we got a negative review from them shortly afterwards.
As I said before, I don’t spend any time on social media, and I couldn’t tell you what platform it showed up on. I never read the actual review, but T and my daughter-in-law told me about it. People are entitled to their opinions and we sincerely respect them, but it seemed to us that the review didn’t stop with their frustration about the initial refund. It became a bit vindictive. They questioned whether we had the appropriate insurance and safety measures in place to ensure the safety of our students and workers. Rest assured we certainly do. Personally, I think those are questions I would have asked up front before allowing my child to take the lessons in the first place.
We do welcome constructive criticism. At first, we (mostly me) had no intention of responding because we did not feel we were in the wrong and it routinely leads to escalation
Please
Premier Mount N Trail
Join the PMT Ride Hour Program
PRESIDENT, Kelly Chapman
VICE PRESIDENT, Carla Kline
SECRETARY, Stephanie Reaves
TREASURER, Susan Croft
EMAIL, premiermountntrail@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.premiermountntrail.com
by Madison Eshelman
As the days grow longer and the weather begins to warm, horse enthusiasts everywhere know what that means—it’s time to welcome another exciting season with the Premier Mount N Trail Association (PMT). Spring is always a refreshing time for riders as we bring our horses back into regular work, set new goals, and look forward to the many rides and events ahead.
Five Out of Five
One program that helps encourage members to spend more time riding and working with their horses is PMT’s Ride Hour Program. This program allows members to track the hours they spend riding or working their horses throughout the year.
(Continued from page 34)
of the matter. However, we did respond a few days later. No apologies were offered. We simply pointed out that better upfront communication would
have likely prevented the whole unpleasant affair. We again extended the offer to refund the remaining month’s lesson fees but have yet to hear back from
Whether those hours come from practicing obstacles, trail riding, or groundwork with your horse, each activity counts towards your total. It’s a great way to stay motivated, set personal goals, and celebrate the dedication riders put into their horses all year long.
We have many fundraising opportunities coming up in the next few months. Come show your support at the next event! In this magazine, you will find our summer show schedule at our parks in Ohio and Michigan. We would love to see you there!
Established in 1988, the Equicizer offers a unique, fun and effective alternative to standard exercise equipment.
From beginners to professionals, the Equicizer is being used in all riding disciplines and is a training tool used by instructors.
The Equicizer also serves as a great addition to many therapy programs, centers, and private homes offering a safe and effective core exercise for everyone!
them. We also made it clear that we would miss their child because they had such a pleasant personality and desire to learn.
business either. We get calls regularly about potential lessons or training.
The Bible says that the more good work you are doing for the Kingdom, the harder the Devil is going to attack you. I would not call this negative review a fullon Satanic assault, but it still did sting us a bit. Even though we felt we were not in the wrong, it still hurt at that time to think someone is not happy with our services. Keyboards in the hands of unhappy people can ultimately cause lots of problems.
Hand-crafted and custom painted faces.
Visitors are welcome to visit our shop! Visit www.equicizer.com for more information.
James 1:2-4 (NIV) reads “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Now we aren’t going to actively wish for more trials, but we know they are coming and they could be much more significant than a bad review on Google. But we are firm in our faith that God will be right there with us to get through them. It wasn’t very long after that review was posted that many of our current students and barn family rushed to our defense and posted some of the most glowing reviews we could have ever hoped for. So why are we going to focus on that one negative review, when there were so many positive reviews. It apparently hasn’t affected our
Finally, I always wonder if I am writing about the right thing? Well, on the very day that I started to write this article, we got a notice in the mail from an organization called Business Rate indicating that Cowboy Perseverance Ranch had been “officially recognized as the Best of 2025 Marengo Award winner in the horse training category”. How is that for confirmation? God is awesome! Apparently, the award was based on Google reviews. Now, we aren’t puffing ourselves up about the award as much as we might have if it said Central Ohio instead of Marengo! The point is that more people out there seem to love us than those that dislike us. We will continue to do the work for the Lord and maybe we will be back to five out of five! God bless you all!
The Corzatt family owns and operates the Cowboy Perseverance Ranch (CPR) in Marengo, Ohio. CPR is a faith based operation and our mission is to build a strong foundation and relationship with our training horses and students. We are blessed to be able to provide western horsemanship lessons infused with biblical scripture to students of all ages. One student has described her time here as “CPR for the soul!” Visit our website at www.cpranch. wixsite.com/home or follow us on Facebook.
Equicizer Creator Frank Lovato Jr.
Rare opportunity! Discover this well-established equine facility nestled in a private, picturesque setting on over 7 scenic acres in the heart of Solon. Enjoy direct access to the Metroparks bridle trails — an ideal location for horse lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The property features a spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with comfortable living spaces and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Outside, you’ll find a wellequipped barn, indoor arena, and multiple outbuildings with a total of 32 stalls designed to support a variety of
$1,500,00
equestrian activities or hobby farm uses. There is well water to the barns, city water to the house. Whether you’re looking to operate a horse boarding business, train, or simply enjoy your own private riding retreat, this exceptional property offers endless possibilities in a serene, convenient location close to city amenities.
PRESIDENT, Tim Snapp
VICE PRESIDENT, Mark Peterson
TREASURER, Jill Davis
SECRETARY, Heather Collins
WEBSITE, www.ophc.org
by Jennifer Peterson
The APHA Leadership Gathering concluded at the end of February. Tim Snapp, Cindy Snapp, and Sue Johnson represented Ohio Paint Horse Club as National Directors. Natalie Snapp, the AJPHA President, represented OPHC Youth Club and presented her
Highlights from Leadership Gathering
plan for “The 3 Y’s” for youth. Those being Youth connection, Youth retention and Youth involvement. We are so proud of Natalie’s hard work and commitment at our shows, and she is now leading the youth of APHA!
Highlights from the Leadership Gathering:
• Paynt Points paid out $877,000 last year with approximately 70 percent of those showing receiving a payout
• Open classes and color bonus were added for 2026! More information on enrolling your horse in the color incentive can be found here: Paynt Points: Color Bonus Eligibility Declaration
• Another $1 million was added
this year by APHA to the Paynt Points program
• $2.6 million in awards and payouts were awarded by APHA in 2025 in various events
• Numbers in 2025 were down in APHA memberships, World Show, Halter Million, and the Eastern/Western National show entries
• 30 rules were passed at the Leadership Gathering. Find out more about the rules here: 30 rules passed following 2026 APHA Leadership GatheringAPHA: American Paint Horse Association
Despite lower numbers in 2-25, APHA is working hard to bring positive changes for the breed and members by continuing to invest in programs that will encourage growth in 2026 and beyond!
OPHC HIGHLIGHTS
The Ohio Paint Horse Club wrapped up our second annual joint awards banquet on February 21 in Ann Arbor, Mich. The Ohio Paint Horse Club and the Ohio Youth Paint Horse Club handed
out approximately $10,000 in awards which were absolutely amazing! A huge thank you to all who attended, planned behind the scenes, and helped at the banquet. We couldn’t do it without all of you!
Ohio Paint Horse Club also awarded $4,000 in scholarships this year. Each recipient received a $1,000 scholarship. Congratulations to these hardworking young ladies: Allison Kratzer, Georgetown, Ohio; Lucy Berghorst, Zeeland, Mich.; Makeen Noon, Oxford, Ohio; and Natalie Snapp, Bellefontaine, Ohio.
Our first show of the season is right around the corner! The Buckeye Extravaganza at The Champions Center in the indoor arena. We will offer APHA and all breed classes, including some money classes! This is a four-judged show with points approved for APHA, OPHC, and PAC. Find more information on our Facebook page and/ or website OPHC—Ohio Paint Horse Club.
Knox County Horse Park
KCHP: Celebrating 25 Years of Community and Trails
PRESIDENT, Lauren Smith
VICE PRESIDENT, Travis Ross
SECRETARY, Madisyn Weekley
TREASURER, Pam Niner
PHONE, 740/398-5366 (call or text)
WEBSITE, knoxcountyhorsepark.mypixieset.com
by Lauren Smith
MAY 2026 SNEAK PEEK
As we shake off the last of the winter chill, the air at the Horse Park is buzzing with anticipation. This year isn’t just another season; it marks the 25th anniversary of the Knox County Horse Park (KCHP) being open to the public. For a quarter of a century, these trails and arenas have been a home for riders of all disciplines, and we are ready to celebrate that legacy with our biggest season yet.
KICKOFF CELEBRATION:
MAY 16
Our official season opener kicks off on May 16. This isn’t
just a competition; it’s a party. We are hosting our High Point shows alongside a special 25th anniversary celebration. Between classes, you can browse our local vendor row (still have a few open spots for vendors), grab a ‘Meal Deal’ at the concession stand, and pick up limited-edition 25th-anniversary merchandise. Whether you’re competing for a ribbon or just soaking up the atmosphere, this is a day you won’t want to miss.
RIDING FOR A CAUSE:
POKER RUN ON MAY 30
Later in the month, we are switching gears for our first poker run of the season on May 30. This year, we are proud to announce that the event will benefit the local cat shelter. We have curated a fantastic selection of raffle baskets tailored for both horse and cat lovers. The best part? You don’t need a horse to participate! We invite the entire community to join us at the park, participate in the raffle, and enjoy lunch with us. It’s a great way to support our feline friends while enjoying the beauty of the park. Watch our
Facebook page for items that can be donated though the horse park for the local cat shelter.
OTHER IMPORTANT DATES COMING UP
APRIL 13: Meeting at 7 p.m. If the weather is nice we will be meeting at the KCHP
campgrounds. If the weather does not want to cooperate with us we will meet at 411 Pittsburg Avenue, Mount Vernon, Ohio.
Our 2026 show fliers are now available! Be sure to check out our website and Facebook page. For the 2026 show season, we are offering two two-day shows, consisting of jumping, English, contesting, ranch, western and trail, two Friday Night contesting shows, and two Sunday pleasure shows. You can sign up for our shows using horseshowing.com.
Our upcoming show season is shaping up to be the best one yet, but we cannot run it without help! We are currently looking for volunteers to join our Grounds Committee as well as day of horse show help. Please keep an eye out on our social media pages to learn more about volunteer opportunities, you can also contact one of our board members.
Our Boot Scootin’ awards banquet on March 14 was an evening full of fun, laughter, awards, and dancing! Photos from the banquet will be posted to our Facebook page. Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated with us!
Our youth groups Saddles and Spurs, and Tails and Trails are working together to host more educational clinics. Schneiders Saddlery put on a tack clinic cleaning, and it was very informative!
Saddles and Spurs is hoping to plan a trip to the Kentucky Horse Park this summer.
If you are interested in joining one of our youth clubs, please reach out to Kelli Burns (kelliburns86@ gmail.com), Frank Muellnar (f-muellner@sbcglobal.net) or Jaimie Olson (jaimiesutter230@ gmail.com).
If anyone is looking for opportunities to help out with our shows, or helping out with the club in general, we have committees.
Please join us at our monthly meetings on the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Geauga County Fairgrounds in the lounge attached to the school building.
Stay connected! Visit our website (GHPA.US) and follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and announcements.
Geauga Horse and Pony Association thanks Big Dee’s Tack for their generous support of our organization through their Bonus Buck’s program. We greatly appreciate all that this wonderful company provides for our organization.
Plan on attending the 40th ANNUAL ALL HORSE PARADE
September
13,
2026 • 3 p.m. • Delaware, Ohio
The All-Horse Parade Committee invites you to participate in the ALL HORSE PARADE.
We are recognized as one of the largest and most unique, non-motorized parades east of the Mississippi. We have thousands of spectators in attendance, and our Horse and Band Parade is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate our community pride. Our Horse Parade has over 120 Units, including hundreds of horses, mules, donkeys, and bands parading through our town.
PLEASE THANK OUR SPONSORS – BYERS AUTOMOTIVE and VFW POST 3294
Contact Person:
Address:
Phone:
Approx. Number in Group?
Entry Name:
City, State, Zip:
Email:
Approx. Number of Years in Parade:
ARE YOU A NEW ENTRY TO THE PARADE? IF YES, WE NEED A PHOTO OF YOUR ENTRY DOES YOUR ENTRY HAVE ANY MINIS OR DONKEYS, IF YES HOW MANY? __________ DOES YOUR ENTRY HAVE ANY PEOPLE WALKING/LEADING, IF YES HOW MANY? __________ DO YOU HAVE ROOM FOR EXTRA VIP/ TV PEOPLE, IF YES, HOW MANY? __________ PLEASE PROVIDE DESCRIPTION OF YOUR ENTRY SO YOU WILL RECEIVE PROPER RECOGNITION FROM PARADE REVIEW STANDS.
Mail entries to All Horse Parade, c/o Diane Winters, PO Box 1403, Delaware, OH 43015. There is no charge to enter the Parade. For all entries postmarked after the deadline, a $25.00 LATE FEE will be charged.
Please make checks for LATE FEES payable to ALL HORSE PARADE. No Late Entries will be accepted the day of Parade. QUESTIONS? Contact Diane Winters 740-272-7636; Debbie Winters Bergandine 740-816-2542; Monty Harris 740-815-7801; Jeff Wolfe 937-844-2549; Pat Allen 614-507-7463.
E-MAIL both addresses: Jugoutrider7636@gmail.com or DelawareAllHorseParade@gmail.com
**INSURANCE WAIVER MUST BE SIGNED BEFORE ENTRY CAN BE ACCEPTED.** In consideration of the acceptance of this entry to the All Horse Parade, the Group/ Organization/ Individual named as “Entry” and as authorized by all participants in this entry or their legal representatives, agrees and understands that the All Horse Parade including any of its agents, officials, employees and/or volunteers assumes no responsibility for any personal and/or bodily injury and/or property damage suffered by and/or caused by “Entry” and/or property owned and/or used by “Entry” including but not limited to vehicles, equipment, and horses in connection with the All Horse Parade. Adult parents or guardians of minor children participating hereby agree to indemnify the All Horse Parade, its agents, officials, employees and volunteers from any claim made by said parents of minor children for injuries they might receive herein.
**ALL RIDERS UNDER 18 YEARS OLD MUST WEAR HELMETS (4-H Rules). **
GROUP REPRESENTED, PRINTED
SIGNATURE OF INDIVIDUAL IN CHARGE or Parent if Minor DATE
We are a CIRCLE PARADE. The Parade begins and ends at the Delaware County Fairgrounds. You can always dress in your favorite Red, White & Blue apparel and you are encouraged to dress your horse as may be appropriate. The Line-Up Position and Parking Position will be mailed out around Labor Day. The information in the packet is sent to the CONTACT PERSON and is for ALL PARTICIPANTS. It is the responsibility of the CONTACT PERSON to make the ENTIRE GROUP aware of the RULES ALL RIDERS UNDER 18 YEARS OLD MUST WEAR HELMETS (4-H Rules). Please make sure to get your ALL HORSE PARADE T-SHIRTS. T-Shirts are available for Purchase on Parade Day at the Fairgrounds. We accept cash or checks only for T-shirts. Checks are payable to ALL HORSE PARADE T-SHIRTS.
View From the Cheap Seats
Eight Reasons Why Carriage Drivers are the Safest Equestrians
by Sarah Vas
Lots of people say carriage driving is too scary or that their horse will ‘freak out’ if it saw a carriage. That’s really nonsense. Think of all the weird, crazy stuff our horses see and do! Yes, carriage accidents are usually really bad but they are few and far between compared to under saddle accidents. Because that risk is higher, I’d argue that those of us up on the box seat are some of the safest equestrians you’ll ever see. That’s right, I said it!
It’s expensive. Yeah, I know. All horseback activities cost a lot. But just like riding tack, there’s quality harness and there’s garbage harness. Garbage harness is not worth the bargain basement price. Too much room for error, accidents, and broken gear. Whether it’s wash-and-go biothane or good quality leather,
you get what you pay for, and then there’s the fit. Not all offthe-shelf harness fits every horse. Then there’s the cost of a driving vehicle. Just like any equipment, the variety goes far and wide. So do the prices. Most drivers don’t ‘collect’ vehicles but it’s common to have more than one for different purposes. And even if you only drive for recreation, if you want to take your horse and vehicle anywhere, you’ve got to have a trailer that fits both the horse and carriage. Add up all these price tags over the life of any carriage driver worth his or her salt and yeah, you bet we’re all going to be extra safe when we’re using it.
We’re old. Many of us had riding backgrounds before getting into driving. Sometimes, we take up driving because we
Equestrian Sports...
Because other sports only require one ball.
can’t physically handle riding any more. Sitting back there behind your horse takes far less athleticism than riding. That’s great for folks who still have horses in their blood but no more miles left in the saddle. OK, not all carriage drivers are getting senior discounts but the numbers definitely lean towards Mature.
Accidents are often ugly. Remember what I just said about expensive gear and old people? Yeah, getting dumped out of a carriage is not like getting bucked off. In fact, the unwritten rule of driving is that you Don’t Bail Out when things get wonky. You are the captain of the ship, the man behind the wheel. Your horse needs you to sit tight, stay in, and drive! If a driver is ejected from a carriage, it’s usually because the carriage has tipped over somehow, often at speed. With no driver and a now Catty-whompus Clackity Clack dragging twisted behind the horse, it’s scary and they usually bolt until someone or something gets them stopped. Harness straps get torn, shafts split or break through, carriages get bent and broken. And then, there’s the possibility that the scare of it never leaves the horse and it won’t safely drive again. Good driving horses. In driving, the most important speed is Whoa. Driving horses need to stand still. Wiggling around between the shafts is a no-no because we need way more space to get straightened out. Driving multiple horses hitched together increases the expectations of each horse exponentially. So, the training is extensive. It often covers lots of things that most under saddle horses never learn. My driving trainees learn to canter in the vehicle even if competition never requires it. They need to feel that motion of the carriage at a canter so, if and when it happens, it’s not a
surprise. Rubbing wheel hubs on walls, getting a wheel caught on a corner or bumping over door sills; all things that good horses learn to accept at home. A true driving horse is a broke, broke, broke horse.
We don’t want to upset your horse. I have the solid habit of calling out ahead to others that I’m coming by. Your startled horse may scare my driving horse! We get it. We take up a lot of space. We’re rattly and jingly and squeaky. We try very hard to be polite about practice ring times and because we share showbills and ring space with lots of other riding disciplines, we will often opt to drive in open grassy fields rather than tight riding arenas full of competitors on horseback.
We have safety meetings before horse shows and events. It’s very, very common for there to be a Driver’s Meeting held before any driving classes commence. Often, the presiding carriage judge will be at this meeting to reiterate important safety rules or discuss times in a show schedule when we can have access to the ring. There’s also what we call a Safety Check at just about any organized driving
S Please turn to page 46
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.
Gorgeous home with 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 2 half baths. Separate In-Law suite with private deck. Barn with 18 stalls, 60x100 indoor arena. 100x120 outdoor arena and 8 separate turnouts, 20 acres + free gas plus royalties.
Located in the desirable community of Roaming Shores, with access to Lake Roaming Rock — ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The community also offers two pools, two playgrounds and a marina.
• 2-Horse Slant Load
• Air Flow Dividers
• Saddle Rack
• Blanket Bars
Structural Warranty
10Year Structural Warranty
Black Swamp Driving Club
Mark Your Calendars for Activities this Summer
PRESIDENT, Julie Emmons
VICE PRESIDENT, Roger Higgins, Jr.
TREASURER, Greg Liedel
CORRAL REPORTER, Sharon Hayhurst
FACEBOOK,
https://www.facebook.com/ groups/121257701223196
by Sharon Hayhurst
March 8 was a wonderful planning meeting for the Black Swamp Driving Club (BSDC). We now have several April activities for everyone to attend as well as others planned for the rest of the summer.
If you are planning on attending Fantasia at Equine Affaire on April 10, please contact Julie
Emmons, 740/361-3885, to see if you can join the group to get a discount on your ticket. April 11 we will be going to the Draft Horse Museum in Auburn, Ind. Meet at 5873 County Road 427 at 10 a.m. to join the free tour and later go out to a restaurant in the area for lunch (at your own expense).
May has two events scheduled. May 2 was given a full write up in March’s Corral. Please refer to it for all the locations we will be visiting in the Kenton, Ohio, area. If you are attending, please let Julie E. know ASAP. (Number listed above).
On May 16, bring your horse and carriage for the Parker Bridge drive in upper Sandusky. Potluck lunch at noon followed by a 5 mile drive. Or if your pony can’t do that long, you can shorten it
View From the Cheap Seats
event even if it’s just a club drive. There’s never too many eyes on anyone’s full turnout,
(continued from page 42)
checking for proper harnessing, undiscovered carriage failures, or proper driver’s etiquette.
and enjoy the bridge several times and the surrounding area.
A drive is being planned for June 6. More information will be published in the May Corral, so keep the date open!
June 27-28 is Cowboy Days at the 1880s era—Ghost Town, 10630 County Raod 40, Findlay, Ohio. This is a great family event! No horses please as this is not open driving. Tour the old buildings and get acquainted with some history from America’s cowboy days. You may even find some real cowboys there sharing some of their stories of days out on the range with the cattle.
On July 11 come view the Wyandot County Museum and enjoy the antiques on display as well as enjoying some ice cream at the ice cream social. This is an excellent opportunity to get
acquainted with some of the 250 years of the USA’s history.
Johnny Appleseed Days at Ghost Town, 10630 County Road 40, Findlay, Ohio, will be September 12-13.
The club has suffered the loss of several of its members, some due to illnesses and inabilities to participate and others by leaving this earth for greener pastures. To all who can no longer join us we want you to know you are missed!
For anyone looking for a variety of fun activities...look no further, we are here for you. From sharing our fun with and knowledge of horses, to learning about great places to explore in the Ohio/Indiana areas, we are what you are looking for!
President Julie Emmoms is awaiting your call!
We help others get hitched. At events, it’s much more common to have help putting a horse to a vehicle rather than wrangling it all by yourself. With multiples, you need even more people. Sure, lots of driving horses learn to stand without a header or being tied while getting hitched. But for all the reasons I mentioned regarding cost, age, and scary accidents, we are “all in, for all there.”
Driving is a social event. Often, a properly outfitted horse can pull a vehicle that carries more than one person. Maybe it’s a side-by-side bench seat on a stout Meadowbrook. Maybe it’s the Groom’s back step on a marathon vehicle. Unlike riding,
two or more people can enjoy the same drive with one turnout. And there’s always food! At club events, we eat. At horse shows, we have potlucks and buffets. We even have a class that is judged around eating! The Picnic class! Competitors drive a normal rail class together, then the horses are unhitched and drivers get to stage a picnic for the judges. We get to show off our vehicles to spectators and enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres before they pin the class!
Check the Equine Affaire schedule for driving clinics. Walk the stables and meet the drivers, too. The more, the merrier!
PRESIDENT, Ron Kiko
VICE PRESIDENT, Deb Harris
SECRETARY, Kelsey Gibson
TREASURER, Mark Maxwell
EMAIL, northernohiooutlawsinfo@gmail.com
WEBSITE, www.nooutlaws.com
by Joyce Higgins
The Northern Ohio Outlaws closes the books on the 2025 season with the awards banquet held at The Amish Door. John Roach acted as Master of Ceremonies. It was great to see everyone decked out. Lynn Bussell and Chuck Bushmire won best dressed.
Awards started with Pam and Alan Cornett doing the wrangler awards. Overall winner, Lane Bushmire; Limited, Tesen Heneburt. Devin Copper won the youth saddle given for anyone under 18 that shows what good horsemanship is all about.
Mens winners were: mens 1,
2025 Awards Banquet
Scott Gobly; Sr. Mens 1, Chris Thomazin; Mens 2, Justin Carroll; Sr. Mens 2, Mark Maxwell; Mens 3, Chuck Bushmire; Sr. Mens 3, Greg Bryan; Mens 4, Jordan Tschiegg; Sr. Mens 4, Dwayne Joyner; Mens 5, David Vrh; Sr. Mens 5, Robert Koniak; Mens 6, Chirs Heald; Sr. Mens 6, Ralph Soehnlen.
Long Guns winners were: Rifle Overall, John Roach; Open Shotgun Ladies Overall, Tammy Angletti; Open Mens Overall, Ron Kiko.
Special shout outs to: Hall of Fame winners Diana and Jon Bernhardt. Rookie of the Year, Scott Gobley.
Most Improved Cowgirl
and
Michigan Trail Riders Association, Inc.
Blossom
Ride Kicks Off the Season for Michigan Trail Riders
PRESIDENT, Dug Jordan 1st VICE PRESIDENT, Jimmy Corlew SECRETARY, Jan Gould TREASURER, Cindy Lawrence WEBSITE, www.mtra.org EMAIL, mtra.office@gmail.com PHONE, 989/324-8549
• 2484 Sq. Ft. Custom Brick Ranch
• 3 Beds and 3 1/2 Baths
• 5.5 Acres with 2 Acres of Fenced Pasture
• 48’ x 32’ Pole Barn with 3 Stalls, Electric and Water
• Brand New 1/2 Acre of Chain Link Fence for the Dogs and Kids
The Michigan Trail Riders Association (MTRA) is welcoming riders back to the trails with its annual Blossom Ride, the organization’s first event of the riding season. This year’s ride runs May 7–11 at Luzerne Trail Camp, located in the scenic Huron-Manistee National Forests near the small village of Luzerne between Grayling and Mio. Riders are invited to attend for the full event or simply come for a day or two. The camp sits in the beautiful northeast region of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and offers access to miles of trails winding through forest landscapes. Visitors will also have the chance to check out the area’s newly reconstructed boardwalk, adding another highlight to the many trails surrounding camp.
A new addition to this year’s event is a camp yard sale on May 9, where participants can set up at their campsites to sell horserelated items for $25. Many horse owners have tack and equipment they no longer use, making this a perfect opportunity to clear out unused gear while helping fellow riders find a bargain. The yard sale will be open to the public, offering a great chance for the community to support the MTRA, meet fellow horse enthusiasts, and pick up some useful items.
The day’s activities will continue with a potluck dinner on the evening of May 9, giving riders and visitors a chance to relax, share food, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes trail riding events special.
Whether you come for the entire ride or just part of the weekend, the Blossom Ride promises great trails, good company, and a fun start to the riding season.
For more information about the Michigan Trail Riders Association, visit mtra.org. Questions can be directed to the MTRA secretary at mtra.office@ gmail.com.
Saddle up and join the fun this May!
Amanda Katz. Most Improved Cowboy Kenny Pence. Looking forward to seeing new people
old friends as we start the 2026 season.
Photo credit: Joyce Higgins
Photo credit: Susie Wise
Photo credit: JMF Photos
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”.
APRIL 2026
APRIL 1-5 — MQHA Easter Eggstravaganza, MSU Pavilion, East Lansing, MI. FMI: 616225-8211, miquarterhorse.com
APRIL 3-6 — Premier Mount N Trail Winter Series Mt. Trail Show and Trail Open Schooling, Shenanigans Stables, 7310 Abbey Rd. NE, Carrollton, OH. FMI: Laura, 814-434-0914, https:// premiermountntrail.com/
APRIL 4 — Massillon Saddle Club & Wayne County Saddle Club 2nd Annual Tack Swap & Craft Show, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wayne County Fairgrounds, 199 Vanover St., Wooster, OH. FMI: Leanne, 330-844-4041
APRIL 4 — Foster Equine 25-26 Fun Show, Stonegate Equine Facility, 26236 Smith Rd., Coolville, OH. FMI: 740-291-3556, FosterEquineRescue@gmail.com
APRIL 4 — Bluegrass Saddle Club, 365 W. 1st St., Shephersville, KY. FMI: 859-588-8156, www.facebook.com/bluegrasssaddleclub
APRIL 10 — Horse Sale, Sugarcreek Stockyards, Sugarcreek, OH. FMI: 330-8311720
APRIL 10-11 — The Jackson Flyer Futurity, Hendersons Arena, 800 Van Fossan West Rd., Jackson, OH. FMI: Kelsie, 937-728-9422
APRIL 11 — New Shooter Clinic: How To Become A Cowboy Mounted Shooter, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Ruggles Arena, 2651 Township Road 155, Cardington, OH. FMI: 330-858-1236, northernohiooutlawsinfo@gmail.com, nooutlaws.com
APRIL 11 — Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: 330-674-6188, www.mthopeauction.com
APRIL 11 — L&B Knox County Horse Show, Legion Field, 6 p.m., 250 Pitzer Street, Barbourville, KY. FMI: Larry Brown, 606546-2092
APRIL 11 — West KY Flatshod Annual Spring Horse Sale, 10 a.m., WKU L.D. Brown Ag Expo Center, 406 Elrod Road, Bowling Green, KY. FMI: Katrina, 870-703-9996, bevbulle@scrtc.com, https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100057332085108
APRIL 11-12 — Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club Show, Ashland County Fairgrounds, 2042 Claremont Ave., Ashland, OH. FMI: www.ashlandpaintandplain.com
APRIL 11-12 — Lower Michigan Horse Association Horse Show, Ingham County Fairgrounds, 700 E. Ash St., Mason, MI. FMI: lmhastalls@gmail.com, www. facebook.com/LMHAHorseShows
Buckeye Mini Horse, Donkey, Pony & Horse Mixed Auction
APRIL 12 — Wayne County Saddle Club Cleanup Day, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Keith Holcombe, 330-201-1229, https:// waynecountysaddleclub.com/
APRIL 12 — Chilled Classic Series Barrel Race, Garwood Arena, 2538 Middleton Rd., Columbiana, OH. FMI: 724-679-0816, chilledclassic@gmail.com
APRIL 12 — KLS Equine Rescue Quartermania, 12 p.m., American Legion, Sandusky, OH. FMI: Betsy, 419-573-9614
APRIL 12 — Back In The Burg Show Series, Greene County Fairgrounds, 107 Fairgrounds Rd., Waynesburg, PA. FMI: waynesburgbarrelshows@gmail.com
APRIL 16-19 — Premier Mount N Trail Winter Series Mt. Trail Show and Trail Open Schooling, Phoenix On Killian, 1571 Killian Rd., Akron, OH. FMI: showphoenixinfo@gmail.com, https:// premiermountntrail.com/
APRIL 16-19 — GLADS Clinic with Tracey Morgan, Maple Crest Farm, Brecksville, OH. FMI: staceygiere@gmail.com, https:// www.facebook.com/arenadrivingtrials
APRIL 17-19 — Rockin R Ranch Youth Rodeo, 10 a.m., Rodeo Run Arena, Canal Winchester, OH. FMI: 740-538-1491
APRIL 18 — 1-Day Ride-In-Sync Clinic, Terry Myers Training Center, Ostrander, OH. FMI: 740-666-1162, www. TMTraiingCenter.com
APRIL 18 — 1st Annual Northwest Ohio Spring Horse & Tack Auction, The Show Arena, 1640 Co. Rd. B, Swanton, OH. FMI: DC Auctions, 419-591-8297, deltaconsignmentauction@gmail.com
APRIL 18 — Conscious Leadership Clinic, Eagles Nest Equestrian Center, 4748 St. Rt. 303, Ravenna, OH. FMI: 330-701-6227, eaglesnestequestrian@ gmail.com, facebook.com/ eaglesnestequestrianperformance
APRIL 18 — Ohio Valley Team Penning Association Sorting, Treharnes Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown/Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: John May, 814-387-3265
APRIL 18 — Tack Sale, Heart of a Warrior Farm, 6545 Beecher Rd., Granville, OH. FMI: 614-881-2506, https:// heartofawarriorfarm.org
APRIL 18 — Davis Ranch Open Show, 385 East US Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: David Davis, 812-620-5707, dave@ daviddavishorsemanship.com
APRIL 18 — Boyd County Saddle Club Open 4-H Benefit Show, 12 p.m., Boyd County Extension Education Center, Ashland, KY. FMI: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/296933253669231/announcements
APRIL 19 — Massillon Saddle Club Fun Show, 11 a.m., 12680 Sally St., Massillon OH. FMI: Leanne Louive, 330844-4041, https://www.facebook.com/ MassillonSaddleClub
Please turn to page 54
Corral Calendar
Continued from page 52
APRIL 19 — Wayne County Saddle Club Cleanup Day, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Keith Holcombe, 330-201-1229, https:// waynecountysaddleclub.com/
APRIL 19 — Bluegrass Saddle Club, 365 W. 1st St., Shephersville, KY. FMI: 859-588-8156
APRIL 23-26 — The National Drive Spring Drive, Hoosier Horse Park, Edinburgh, IN. FMI: Felena Chandler, 317-534-7781, nationaldrive.net
APRIL 24-26 — Ohio Ranch Horse Association, Henderson’s Arena, 800 Van Fossan Rd., Jackson, OH. FMI: Andy Paston, 740-817-3848, ohioranchhorse@outlook. com, ohioranchhorseassociation.com
APRIL 25 — Wayne County Saddle Club Open Pleasure Show, 1 p.m., The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Angel Bonewitz, 330-465-8386, https:// waynecountysaddleclub.com/
APRIL 25 — Get Your Ranch On Clinic with Brenda Hanson, Eagles Nest Equestrian, Ravenna, OH. FMI: eaglesnestequestrian@ gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/ EaglesNestEquestrianPerformance
APRIL 25 — Foster Equine 25-26 Fun Show, Stonegate Equine Facility, 26236 Smith Rd., Coolville, OH. FMI: 740-291-3556, FosterEquineRescue@gmail.com
APRIL 25 — Carroll Co. Jr. Fair Horse Committee Tack Swap, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Carroll Co. Fairground Grandstands, 160 Kensington Rd., Carrollton, OH. FMI: 330340-1506 (text)
APRIL 25 — Grove City Tack Swap, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pine Twp. Engine Company, 1252 S. Center St., Grove City, PA. FMI: https:// www.facebook.com/share/17A1EHVffH/
APRIL 25 — Ramblen Farm Open Shows, 9 a.m., Kentucky Cowtown Arena, Williamstown, KY. FMI: showjumper1978@ yahoo.com, https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61584240691888
APRIL 25-26 — Buckeye Extravaganza, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: www.ophc.org
APRIL 25-26 — Northern Ohio Outlaws Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Wayne County Fairgrounds, 199 Vanover St., Wooster, OH. FMI: www.nooutlaws.com
APRIL 25-26 — Ottawa County Horse Foundation Points On The Portage Circuit #1 (Performance/25th, Speed/26th), Ottawa County Fairgrounds, Oak Harbor, OH. FMI: ottawacountyhorsefoundation@ gmail.com, ochf.net
APRIL 25-26 — Buckskin Horse Association of Michigan Ridin’ Fuzzy Show, Shiawassee County Fairgrounds, 2900 E. Hibbard Rd., Corunna, MI. FMI: michiganbuckskin.org
APRIL 26 — 2026 Youth Timed Event Series Finals, Garwood Arena, 2538 Middleton Rd., Columbiana, OH. FMI: 330-717-4329, garwoodarena.com
MAY 2026
MAY 1-2 — 20th Annual Superior Friesian Sale and Inaugural Superior Driving Pony Sale, Mt. Hope Auction, Mt. Hope, OH. FMI: www.mthopeauction.com
MAY 1-3 — Zone 8 Show, C Bar C, 253 W. Stardust Rd., Cloverdale, IN. FMI: Tim Snapp, 937-308-1611, tsnapp@ americanbus.com, www.ophc.org
MAY 1-3 — Miami County Horse Association 4th Annual 5 Rides to the Prize, 650 N. Co. Rd. 25A, Troy, OH. FMI: miamicountyhorseassociation@gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/MCHA4H
MAY 1-3 — Developing Performance through Western Dressage Principles Clinic with Kayla Bossler Schlabach, Rivermist Farms, Church Hill, TN. FMI: www.krshorsemanship.com
MAY 2 — The Superior Friesian Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: Harry, 330-231-4548
MAY 2 — Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Association Ranch Horse Show, 9 a.m., Guernsey Co. Fairgrounds, 335 Old National Rd., Lore City, OH. FMI: ofqhashows@ gmail.com, www.ohfqha.com
MAY 2 — Summit County Open Show Series, Summit County Fairgrounds, Tallmadge, OH. FMI: summitopenshows@ gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/ SummitCountyOpenShow
MAY 2 — Franklin Co. Spring Equine Youth Clinic, Franklin County Fairgrounds, Hilliard, OH. FMI: Colleen Bingaman, 614906-6591, https://sites.google.com/view/ fchorse/events/equine-clinic
MAY 2 — Portage County Tack Swap, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Portage County Fairgrounds, 4215 Fairgrounds Road, Randolph, OH. FMI: Megan Kline, 330-730-5859, portagecountytackswap@gmail.com
MAY 2 — Green River Gaited Horse Classic, 678 Wallace Wilkinson Blvd., Liberty, KY. FMI: Clayton Ryan, 270-766-2641
MAY 2-3 — South Eastern Ohio Horse Show Organization Pleasure Show, 4028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH. FMI:614-2033153, seohso2023@gmail.com
MAY 2-3 — Lower Michigan Horse Association Horse Show, Ingham County Fairgrounds, 700 E. Ash St., Mason, MI. FMI: lmhastalls@gmail.com, www. facebook.com/LMHAHorseShows
MAY 3 — The Mane Event Open Show Series, Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: jdshowhorses@ yahoo.com, jdshowhorses.com
MAY 3 — Franklin County 4-H Horse Advisory Committee Youth Horse Show Circuit, Franklin County Fairgrounds, Hilliard, OH. FMI: Gary, 614-563-5901
MAY 5-7 — Joe Beaver Clinic, Terry Shetrons Arena, 4565 Horse Valley Rd., East Waterford, PA. FMI: Jayme Myers, 717-887-4576, jrbreakaways@gmail.com
MAY 7-10 — All American Youth Horse Show, Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. FMI: youthhorseshow@gmail.com, aayhshow.com
MAY 8 — Horse Sale, Sugarcreek Stockyards, 102 Buckeye St., Sugarcreek, OH. FMI: 330-831-1720, www.facebook. com/sugarcreekstockyards
MAY 8-9 — Yoder Bros. Spring Horse & Carriage Auction, Midland County Fairgrounds, 6905 Eastman Ave., Midland, MI. FMI: 989-386-9082
MAY 8-9 — OAATS Shake It Up, Shaker Village, 3501 Lexington Rd., Harrisburg, KY. FMI: Amy Whelen, 606-638-4852, arabsrun@lycommonline.com, oaats.org
MAY 8-10 — Central Ohio Reining Horse Association Show, The University of Findlay, 14700 US Rt. 68, Findlay, OH. FMI: info@centralohioreining.com, centralohioreining.com
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Corral Calendar
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MAY 9 — Ohio Horseman’s Council Ashtabula Chapter Gaming Buckle Series, Ashtabula County Fairgrounds, 127 N. Elm St., Jefferson, OH. FMI: Kat Ring, 440-2014122 (call/text)
MAY 9 — Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Event Center, 8076 SR 241, Millersburg, OH. FMI: 330-674-6188, www.mthopeauction.com
MAY 9 — Ohio Valley Team Penning Association Sorting, Treharnes Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown/Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: John May, 814-387-3265
MAY 9 — Improve Your Horsemanship Skills Clinic with Mike Schmidt, 9 a.m., Belmont County Saddle Club, 41901 National Rd., Belmont, OH. FMI: Desirae, 304-780-1326
MAY 9 — Open Pleasure Show Series, Holland Western Horse Park, 3856 61st St., Holland, MI. FMI: info@hollandwestern. com, https://www.facebook.com/ HollandWesternHorsePark
MAY 9 — L&B Knox County Horse Show, Legion Field, 6 p.m., 250 Pitzer Street, Barbourville, KY. FMI: Larry Brown, 606546-2092
MAY 9 — RMHA Youth Spring Fling, 3 p.m., Richardson Arena at MSU Derrickson Agricultural Complex, Morehead, KY. FMI: rmhorse.com
MAY 9-10 — Northern Ohio Dressage Association Dressage 2026 & Encore 2026, Chagrin Valley Farms, Chagrin Falls, OH. FMI: nodarider.org
MAY 10 — South Eastern Ohio Horse Show Organization Contesting Show, 4028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH. FMI: 614-2033153, seohso2023@gmail.com
MAY 14 — Holland Western Speed Series, 6 p.m., Holland Western Horse Park, 3856 61st St., Holland, MI. FMI: https://www. facebook.com/HollandWesternHorsePark
MAY 15 — Wayne County Saddle Club Friday Night Fun Show Buckle Series, 6:30 p.m., The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Leanne, 330-844-4041, https://waynecountysaddleclub.com/
MAY 15-16 — Golden Summer Classic Mini Show/Contesting Show (15th) & Buckle Series (16th), Lawrence County Fairgrounds, 11261 US Highway 50W, Bedford, IN. FMI: Savannah, 812-277-6441
MAY 15-16 — Bluegrass Saddle Club, 365 W. 1st St., Shephersville, KY. FMI: 859-588-8156, www.facebook.com/ bluegrasssaddleclub
MAY 15-17 — Pinto Horse Association of Ohio Summer Warm Up, University of Findlay, 14700 US Rte. 68, Findlay, OH. FMI: ohiopinto.net
MAY 16 — Mike Schmidt Mountain Trail Clinic & Liberty Clinic with Bella Sweigard, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Creekside Horse Park, 7369 Mottice Dr. SE, Waynesburg, OH. FMI: Cynthia Bauman (text) 330-3233559, creeksidehorsepark.com
MAY 16 — 1-Day Ranch Clinic, Terry Myers Training Center, Ostrander, OH. FMI: 740666-1162, www.TMTraiingCenter.com
MAY 16 — 25th Anniversary Celebration Show & Open House (Contesting/Ranch), 9:30 a.m., Knox County Horse Park, 7500 Thayer Rd., Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: Lauren Smith, 740-398-5366, https://www. facebook.com/groups/420822485270892
MAY 16 — PSA Show, The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Sheena Holcombe, 300-600-0284, https:// waynecountysaddleclub.com/
MAY 16 — Chasing Dreams Fun Show, 1 p.m., Union County Kentucky Expo Center, 125 Pryor Blvd., Sturgis, KY. FMI: 270704-1721, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/3507747492820456/
MAY 16-17 — Equine Health & Emergency First Aid (16th)/Disaster Planning & Emergency Preparedness, Eagles Nest Equestrian Center, 4748 St. Rt. 303, Ravenna, OH. FMI: 330-701-6227, facebook. com/eaglesnestequestrianperformance
MAY 16 — NBHA KY 03, NPBA, Hometown Barrel Squad Show, Grayson County Saddle Club, 4783 Shrewsbury Rd., Leitchfield, KY. FMI: gcsaddleclub@gmail.com
MAY 16 — Davis Ranch Open Show, 385 East US Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: David Davis, 812-620-5707, dave@ daviddavishorsemanship.com
MAY 16-17 — Mounted Archery Competition Open Practice, Creekside Horse Park, 7369 Mottice Dr. SE, Waynesburg, OH. FMI: Cynthia, 330-3233559, creeksidehorsepark@gmail.com, creeksidehorsepark.com
MAY 16-17 — Tri-State Miniature Horse Club Spring Fling Show, Lorain County Fairgrounds, 23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, OH. FMI: Donna Phillips, 859-265-1196, www. highmountainequestrianevents.com
MAY 16-17 — Valley City Saddle Club 2026 Summer Series, 9 a.m., Medina County Fairgrounds (Route 42 Entrance), 720 W. Smith Rd., Medina, OH. FMI: Kristina Phillips, 440-334-6434
MAY 16-18 — Carl Bledsoe Horsemanship Clinic, Rising Star Ranch, 11337 Watkins Rd. SW, Pataskala, OH. FMI: 502-4945314, risingstarranchohio.com, https:// www.facebook.com/Risingstarranchohio
MAY 17 — Wayne County Saddle Club Fun Show & Horsemanship Clinic with Janessa Hill, 12 p.m., The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Rachel, 419-606-9712, https://waynecountysaddleclub.com/
MAY 17 — Back In The Burg Show Series, Greene County Fairgrounds, 107 Fairgrounds Rd., Waynesburg, PA. FMI: waynesburgbarrelshows@gmail.com
MAY 21 — Twistn B Ranch Indiana & Kentucky IBRA Show, 7 p.m., 3435 S. Pleasant Ridge Rd., Scottsburg, IN. FMI: Penny Barth, 812-406-8512
MAY 22-24 — Team Josey Barrel Racing and Horsemanship Clinic, The Show Arena, 1640 County Road B, Swanton, OH. FMI: 903-935-5358, barrelracers.com
MAY 22-24 — Inter-County Horsemen’s Association Ride, White & Blue Horse Show, Canfield Fairgrounds, Canfield, OH. FMI: i-cha.org
Please turn to page 58
Corral Calendar
MAY 22-24 — Michigan Paint Horse Club Memorial Day Bonanza, Ingham County Fairgrounds, Mason, MI. FMI: Bri Slager, 616-610-9326, michiganphc@gmail.com
MAY 22-25 — MQHA Summer Series, Midland County Fairgrounds, Midland, MI. FMI: 616-225-8211, info@miquarterhorse. com, miquarterhorse.com
MAY 23 — Wayne County Saddle Club Open Pleasure Show, 1 p.m., The Hollow, 4200 Overton Rd., Wooster, OH. FMI: Angel Bonewitz, 330-465-8386, https:// waynecountysaddleclub.com/
MAY 23 — Confidence in the Show Ring, Eagles Nest Equestrian Center, 4748 St. Rt. 303, Ravenna, OH. FMI: 330-701-6227, facebook.com/ eaglesnestequestrianperformance
MAY 23 — Turtle Lake Campground Equestrian Speed Show Series, 854 Miller Rd., Beulah, MI. FMI: Roger Knapp, 231360-9985, turtlelakecampground.com
MAY 23 — Crosswind Stables Open Mountain Horse Fun Show, Old KEC, Winchester, KY. FMI: Andrea Crawford, 606-643-5130, andrewcrawford1996@gmail.com
MAY 23-24 — Ottawa County Horse Foundation Points On The Portage Circuit #2 (Performance/23rd, Speed/24th), Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 7870 W. State Route 163, Oak Harbor, OH. FMI: ottawacountyhorsefoundation@gmail. com, ochf.net www.miphc.com
MAY 23-24 — Butler County Saddle Horse Association Horse Show, 9 a.m., Preble County Fairgrounds, Eaton, OH. FMI: bcsaddlehorse.com
MAY 23-24 — Tom Wilson Memorial Open Horse Show, Fulton County 4-H Equestrian Center, 1157 W. 3rd St., Rochester, IN. FMI: 260-403-9670, www.iqha.com
MAY 23-24 — Michigan Paint Horse Club Memorial Day Bonanza, Ingham County Fairgrounds & Expo Center, 700 E. Ash St., Mason, MI. FMI: Bri Slager, 616-610-9326, http://www.miphc.com/
MAY 24 — NEOHA Show, Blue Lakes Farm, Newbury, OH. FMI: www. dustybootsridingclub.com
MAY 25 — Edmonson County 4-H Pony Express Fun Horse Show, Fairgrounds, Lions Lane, Brownsville, KY. FMI: Tracy Mitchell, 615-970-0413
MAY 27-31 — The Buckeye Reining Spectacular, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: buckeyereiningseries@yahoo. com, buckeyereiningseries.com
MAY 29-30 — 4R Sales Summer Sizzler Sale, United Producers Livestock Barn, 4350 Louisville Road, Bowling Green, KY. FMI: 270-723-5855, https://www.facebook. com/groups/664248660375098/
MAY 29-30 — OAATS Summer Breeze Ride, Dream Lake State Park, Clark Forest, Borden, IN. FMI: Lois McAfee, 812-7523211, loismcafee@yahoo.com, oaats.org
MAY 29-31 — Miami County Horse Association 4th Annual 5 Rides to the Prize, 650 N. Co. Rd. 25A, Troy, OH. FMI: https:// www.facebook.com/MCHA4H
MAY 29-31 — Eastern Upper Peninsula Horseman’s Association Speed & Pleasure Show, Chippewa County Fairgrounds, 124 S. Fair Rd., Kinross, MI. FMI: carie921@ gmail.com, eupha.weebly.com
MAY 30 — Mike Schmidt Mountain Trail Clinic and Terry Myers Ride In Sync Clinic, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Creekside Horse Park, 7369 Mottice Dr. SE, Waynesburg, OH. FMI: Cynthia Bauman (text) 330-3233559, creeksidehorsepark.com
MAY 30 — Poker Run, 10 a.m., Knox County Horse Park, 7500 Thayer Rd., Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: Lauren Smith, 740398-5366, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/420822485270892
MAY 30 — The Mane Event Open Show Series, Madison County Fairgrounds, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: jdshowhorses@ yahoo.com, jdshowhorses.com
MAY 30 — BAC Speed Show, Show Arena, 475 Commerce Drive, Ironton, OH. FMI: Teresa Roberts, 937-441-1506
MAY 30 — Wranglers Riding Club Show, 1 p.m., 3385 KY-80 E., Murray, KY. FMI: 270-227-8649, wranglersridingclubinc@ gmail.com, wranglersmurray.wixsite.com/ wranglers
MAY 30 — Will Eckert and Brian Bannerman Speed Clinic, Chippewa County Fairgrounds, 124 Fair Road, Kinross, MI. FMI: shelbyleveille@hotmail.com
MAY 30-31 — Mounted Archery Competition, Creek Side Horse Park, 7369 Mottice Dr. SE, Waynesburg, OH. FMI: Cynthia Bauman, 330-3233559, creeksidehorsepark@gmail.com, creeksidehorsepark.com
May 30-31 — Fulton County Saddle Club Show, Fulton County Fairgrounds, 8514 State Route 108, Wauseon, OH. FMI: www.fultoncountysaddleclub.com
MAY 30-31 — Northern Ohio Saddle Club Show, Medina County Fairgrounds, 735 Lafayette Rd., Medina, OH. FMI: northernohiosaddleclub@gmail.com, https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61587236287836
MAY 30-31 — Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club Show, Ashland County Fairgrounds, 2042 Claremont Ave., Ashland, OH. FMI: www.ashlandpaintandplain.com
MAY 30-31 — Buckskin Memorial Classic, Bullen Equestrian Center at Preble County Fairgrounds, Eaton, OH. FMI: ohiobuckskins.org
MAY 31 — Massillon Saddle Club Fun Show, 11 a.m., 12680 Sally St., Massillon OH. FMI: Leanne Louive, 330-8444041, https://www.facebook.com/ MassillonSaddleClub
It’s free to list your Equine Event in the Corral Calendar. Email your event to michelle@thehorsemenscorral.com
*
*
INDOOR
Davis Ranc h Open Hor se Show 2026
Ranch
APRIL 18
Judge: Jenny Nor ton Schamber
JULY 18
Judge: Car a Stewar t
1. English Walk/Trot
2. Pee Wee English Pleasure (0-11)
3. Youth English Pleasure (12-18)
4. Open English Pleasure
AUGUS T
MAY
16
Judge: Pam Wilson
15
Judge: Ange Reed
39. Obstacle Driving
JUNE
Judge: T im
20
SEPTEMBER
19
OCTOBER 17
5. Youth English Equitation (18 & Under)
6. Open English Equitation
7. Western/English Dressage
8. English Halter
9. Weanling & Yearling Halter
10. Yearling Challenge
11. 2 & 3 Year Old Halter
12. In Hand Challenge Halter
13. Pony/Mini Halter (under 56”)
14. Mare Halter
15. Gelding Halter
16. Stallion Halter
17. AQHA Halter
18. APHA/Pinto/App Halter
19. Junior Horse Halter
20. Senior Horse Halter
21. Ranch Mare Halter
22. Gelding/Stallion Ranch Halter
23. Other Breed Halter
24. Draft Horse Halter
25. Color Halter
26. Pee Wee Halter (11 & Under)
27. Youth Halter (12-18)
28. Adult Halter (19 & over)
29. Open Halter (Payback)
30. GRAND & RESERVE HALTER
31. Pee Wee Showmanship (11 & Under)
32. Youth Showmanship (12-18)
33. Adult Showmanship (19 & Over)
34. Open Lungeline (All ages)
35. Yearling Challenge Lungeline
36. In Hand Challenge Lungeline
37. Open Driving
38. Cones Course Driving
40. In Hand Challenge Ground Driving
41. Leadline
42. Costume
43. Freestyle/Liberty
44. Bareback Walk/Trot
45. Open Walk/Trot (Payback)
46. Pee Wee Walk/Trot
47. Youth Walk/Trot
48. Adult Walk/Trot
49. Over The Hill Walk/Trot
50. Open Western Pleasure (Payback)
51. Pee Wee Western Pleasure (11 & Under)
52. Youth Western Pleasure (12-18)
53. Adult Western Pleasure (19 & Over)
54. Country Pleasure (Favorite Gait)
55. Gaited Pleasure
56. Junior Pleasure
57. Senior Pleasure
58. Ranch Horse Walk/Trot
59. Ranch Horse Pleasure (Rail)
60. Ranchmanship (Pattern)
61. GRAND & RESERVE WESTERN PLEASURE
62. Pee Wee Horsemanship (11 & Under)
63. Youth Horsemanship (12-18)
64. Open Horsemanship (Payback)
65. Open Reining All Ages
BREAK
66. Obstacle in Hand
67. Yearling Challenge Obstacle in Hand
68. In Hand Challenge Obstacle in Hand
69. Pee Wee Trail (11 & Under)
70. Youth Trail (12-18)
71. Adult Trail (19 & Over)
72. Open Trail
Limited Stall Availability $37 Call or Text (812) 620-5707 to reserve a stall.
BREED CATEGORIES AQHA/Quarter Type Paint/Pinto/Appaloosa Pony/Mini, Other, Draft
• All classes $7 except Payback Classes which are $10.
• $7.00 Fee Per Horse • Stalls $37
• JUDGE’S DECISION FINAL.
• NO REFUNDS ARE GIVEN. Once you pay you must show or lose your entry fee.
• Paybacks are 50%, pays to 3rd place. 10 or more in payback classes for $50 added.
• HELMETS REQUIRED FOR ALL RIDERS 18 & UNDER.
• Must compete in a minimum of 4 shows and complete nomination form and pay $20 dues to qualify for year-end awards.
• Breakfast and Lunch Concession on grounds.
• Special Award given for perfect attendance.
• Ask about our Ranch Versatility Award!
Davis Ranch is not responsible for accidents, injuries, thefts, fire, deaths, human or animal.
YOU RIDE AT YOUR OWN RISK. NO SMOKING IN THE BARNS AND NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ALLOWED ON THE PROPERTY.
High Point Awards at the end of the year for each group within each breed. Year End Awards Banquet November 21, 2026
Jackson
Judge: Pam Wilson
Judge: Paula Gatewood
JUNE
Jackpot Classes pay to 3 places Judge’s Decision is Final
Saturday, June 6, 2026 • 9 am
•
•
•
•
•
•
• Entry Booth Opens 1 Hr. prior to show
• Stalls available upon request
• All 4H-ers must wear helmets
• Peewee classes age 9 and under
•
•
• Covered
Sunday, June 7, 2026 • 9 am
January 25 — Indoor March 22 — Indoor
April 19 — Indoor June 6 & 7
July 18 — Double Points
July 19 — PMT Fundraiser Show/Double Points
August 15 & 16
September 12 & 13
January 3 February 7
March 7 — Double Points
April 4
June 13 & 14
July 11 & 12
August 8 & 9 (Double Points 9th)
May 16 & 17 (Clinic 16th)
July 24-26 (Clinic 24th/Double Points 26th)
August 23
September 27
Fulton County 4-H Equestrian Center 1157 W 3rd Street • Rochester, IN 46975
May 23-24, 2026
RANCH HORSE SHOWS
SERIES CLASSES
Versatility = 8, 16, 22, 30, 35, 39 Novice & Green Declarations available online
a.m.
Trail and Ranchmanship will be shown At-Will in the infield. Trail Pattern Walk through with the judge at 9:45 a.m.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner available on grounds. Camping with Electric/Water Check OHFQHA.COM for when to contact for Stall Reservations.
NEW JACKPOT CLASS: RANCH RIDING Watch for Additional Jackpot Offerings!
W/T Ranch Riding
29. Modified Ranch Riding
30. Ranch Reining
31. Youth Reining
32. Green Reining
33. Novice Reining
34. Jackpot Barrels
35. Ranch Conformation 3+
36. Y-Ranch Conformation
37. Ranch Conformation 2 & Under
38. Modified Conformation
Ranch Trail**
Y Ranch Trail**
W/T Ranch Trail** 42. Novice W/T Ranch Trail
Y W/T Ranch Trail** 44. In Hand Trail (2 y.o. & younger)
14. Open Ranch Showmanship (All May C/E) Drag (15 minute break)
15. **Schooling Class W/T, E/W (not judged)
16. Small Fry Pleasure E/W 12 & under
17. Small Fry Eq. E/W 12 & under
*Small Fry - No cross enter from other age groups*
18. Jackpot W/T E/W Pleasure May C/E
19. English Pleasure W/T All Ages No C/E
20. English Equitation W/T All Ages No C/E
21. Open Jackpot English Pleasure
22. English Pleasure 19 & over
23. English Pleasure 14-18
24. English Pleasure 13 & under
25. Quarter Horse English Pleasure
26. English Pleasure (No Quarter Horse)
27. Open Jackpot English Equitation
28. English Equitation 19 & over
29. English Equitation 14-18
FEES:
Entry Fee: Member $5; Non Member $7
Grounds Fee: Member $4; Non Member $7
Office Fee: Member $0; Non Member $3
Jackpot: Member $10; Non Member $10
30. English Equitation 13 & under
31. Jackpot W/T/E Pleasure (MSC Only)
32. Open Jack Benny W/T E/W 39 & over
33. Generation Gap W/T (10 yr gap)
34. **Open Golf Ball & Spoon W/T E/W
35. **Cake/Food Walk — $1 Entry Drag (15 minute break)
36. **Schooling Class W/T/C (not judged)
37. Ranch Pleasure Small Fry 12 & under
38. Jackpot Ranch Pleasure
39. Ranch Pleasure W/T No C/E From Canter
40. Ranch Pleasure 13 & under
41. Ranch Pleasure 14-18
42. Ranch Pleasure 19+
43. Open Ranch Pleasure
44. Ranch Riding W/T No C/E From Canter
45. Open Ranch Riding
46. Jackpot E/W Pleasure W/T No C/E
47. Western Pleasure W/T All Ages No C/E
48. Western Horsemanship W/T All Ages No C/E
49. Jackpot Western Pleasure No C/E
50. Western Pleasure 19 & over
51. Western Pleasure 14-18
52. Western Pleasure 13 & under
53. Open QH Western Pleasure
54. Open Western Pleasure (No QH)
55. Western Horsemanship 19 & over
56. Western Horsemanship 14-18
57. Western Horsemanship 13 & under Drag
58. Trail Walk Trot
59. Trail Walk Trot Canter
60. Trail In Hand
Small Fry riders may not cross enter into other age designated, Walk/Trot or Open Classes but may enter class #33 Walk/Trot Generation Gap class and #34 Walk/Trot Golf Ball & Spoon and Walk Trot classes without any age designation. Ranch class placings based on the horse’s ranch style movement (or conformation for Class #2 only), not traditional Ranch attire/tack. Ranch class entrants may show
in proper E/W attire/equipment/banding/braiding/tail extensions, hoof polish etc without penalty. Must show minimum 4 shows to qualify for points and complete volunteer hours by second to last Pleasure show. Points begin to accumulate with paid membership. Must be a member in good standing. Jackets optional based on judge’s preference. View Facebook page for updates.
BUCKLE SERIES
Massillon Saddle Club 2026 Show Dates
CONTESTING POINT SHOWBILL
Youth Poles
Small Fry Poles
17. Jackpot 3D Poles (1
18. Open Fig. 8
19. Youth Fig. 8
20. Small Fry Fig. 8
21. Open Keyhole
22. Youth Keyhole
23. Small Fry Keyhole
24. Open Down & Back
25. Open Flags
26. Open Scurry
27. Open Stakes
28. Youth Stakes
29. Small Fry Stakes
FUN SHOW
APRIL 19 • MAY 31 • OCTOBER 18
Fulton County Saddle Club
$1600 in ADDED Money!!
1. *** $150 ALL BREED/SEX Halter
2. YA Performance Geldings/NSBA (302)
3. Amt Performance Geldings/NSBA (303)
4. Performance Geldings/NSBA (304)
5. YA Performance Mares/NSBA (305)
6. Amt Performance Mares/NSBA (306)
7. Performance Mares/NSBA (307)
8. Amt Performance Stallions/NSBA (308)
9. Performance Stallions/NSBA (309)
10. YA Yearling Geldings
11. YA Two-Year-Old Geldings
12. YA Three-Year-Old Geldings
13. YA Aged Geldings
Grand & Reserve YA Geldings
14. Amt Yearling Geldings
15. Amt Two-Year-Old Geldings
16. Amt Three-Year-Old Geldings
17. Amt Aged Geldings
Grand & Reserve Amt Geldings
18. Yearling Geldings
19. Two-Year-Old Geldings
20. Three-Year-Old Geldings
21. Aged Geldings
Grand & Reserve Geldings
22. YA Yearling Mares
23. YA Two-Year-Old Mares
24. YA Three-Year-Old Mares
25. YA Aged Mares
Grand & Reserve YA Mares
Approved by: AQHA, OQHA, NOQHA, NSBA & APHA PAC Fulton County Fairgrounds ● 8514 State Route 108 ● Wauseon, Ohio
May 30th & 31st, 2026
Judges: Amy Watkins, Lori Gordon, Tom Robertson
Saturday, May 30th, 2026 • 8:00 am
26. Amt Yearling Mares
27. Amt Two-Year-Old Mares
28. Amt Three-Year-Old Mares
29. Amt Aged Mares
Grand & Reserve Amt Mares
30. Yearling Mares
31. Two-Year-Old Mares
32. Three-Year-Old Mares
33. Aged Mares
Grand & Reserve Mares
34. Amt Yearling Stallions
35. Amt Two-Year-Old Stallions
36. Amt Three-Year-Old Stallions
37. Amt Aged Stallions
Grand & Reserve Amt Stallions
38. Yearling Stallions
39. Two-Year-Old Stallions
40. Three-Year-Old Stallions
41. Aged Stallions
Grand & Reserve Stallions
42. ***$150 ALL BREED Showmanship
43. Level 1 YA Showmanship/NSBA (343)
44. Rookie YA Showmanship
45. YA Showmanship 13 & U/NSBA (345)
46. YA Showmanship 14-18/ NSBA (346)
47. Level 1 Amt Showmanship/NSBA (347)
48. Rookie Amt Showmanship
49. Amt Select Showmanship/NSBA (349)
50. Amt Showmanship/NSBA (350)
51. Small Fry Showmanship/NSBA (351)
52. ***$100 ALL BREED HUS
53. Level 1 HUS/NSBA (353)
54. Level 1 YA HUS/NSBA (354)
55. Rookie YA HUS
56. Jr. HUS/NSBA (356)
57. YA HUS 13 & Under/NSBA (357)
58. YA HUS 14-18/NSBA (358)
59. Level 1 Amt HUS/NSBA (359)
60. Rookie Amt HUS
61. Amt Select HUS/NSBA (361)
62. Amt HUS/NSBA (362)
63. Sr. HUS/NSBA (363)
64. Small Fry HUS/NSBA (364)
65. Small Fry Equitation/NSBA (365)
66. ***$100 ALL BREED W/T HUS
67. Level 1 Amt W/T HUS/NSBA (367)
68. ***$100 ALL BREED W/T Equitation
69. Level 1 Amt W/T Equitation/NSBA (369)
70. Level 1 YA W/T HUS/NSBA (370)
71. Level 1 YA W/T Equitation/NSBA (371)
72. ***$100 ALL BREED Equitation
73. Level 1 YA Equitation/NSBA (373)
74. Rookie YA Equitation
75. YA Equitation 13 & U/NSBA (375)
76. YA Equitation 14 & 18/NSBA (376)
77. Level 1 Amt Equitation/NSBA (377)
78. Rookie Amt Equitation
79. Amt Select Equitation/NSBA (379)
80. Amt Equitation/NSBA (380)
Twelve High Point All-Around Awards AQHA Classes: Amateur, L1 Amateur, Amateur Select, Small Fry, YA 13& under, YA 14-18, L1 Youth, Rookie Youth, Rookie Amateur, Amateur Ranch Horse, Youth Ranch Horse, & All Breed (Must show corresponding halter class except in Small Fry, Level 1, and Rookie)
Sunday, May 31st, 2026 • 8:00 am
81. ***$100 ALL BREED TRAIL
82. AQHA Level 1 Trail /NSBA (382)
83. Level 1 YA Trail/NSBA (383)
84. YA Trail/NSBA (384)
85. Level 1 Amt Trail/NSBA (385)
86. Amt Select Trail/NSBA (386)
87. Amt Trail/NSBA (387)
88. AQHA Trail/NSBA (388)
89. Small Fry Trail/NSBA (389)
90. ***$100 ALL BREED W/T Trail
91. Level 1 Amt W/T Trail/NSBA (391)
92. Level 1 YA W/T Trail/NSBA (392)
93. ***$100 ALL BREED Ranch Trail
94. Open Ranch Trail/NSBA (394)
95. Amt Ranch Trail/NSBA (395)
96. Youth Ranch Trail/NSBA (396)
97. ***$100 ALL BREED RANCH RIDING
98. AQHA L1 Ranch Riding/NSBA (398)
99. AQHA Ranch Riding/NSBA (399)
100. L1 YA Ranch Riding/NSBA (400)
CASH AND CHECKS ONLY
AQHA ENTRY FEES: $14.00 Per Judge Open, Youth, Amateur
NSBA DUAL APPROVED CLASSES: $12.00 per class–1 set of points
NSBA FLAT RATE: $50.00 Per Horse/Per Set of Points
$8.00 Lead Line Per Judge
$8.00 Small Fry Classes Per Judge or $25.00 All Day Fee Per Judge
$50.00 All Day Level 1 YA, Rookie and Youth Classes Per Judge
$50.00 All Day Level 1 AMT, Rookie and AMT Classes Per Judge ***$$$ ALL BREED classes: $15. Open to all breeds/all age exhibitors; Show to 1 judge/rotates; W/T entries cannot cross enter canter classes. 5 entries to pay back $$. Four places 40%30%-20%-10%
101. YA Ranch Riding/NSBA (401)
102. L1 Amt Ranch Riding/NSBA (402)
103. Amt Ranch Riding/NSBA (403)
104. Small Fry Ranch Riding/NSBA (404)
105. ***$100 ALL BREED WORKING WESTERN RAIL
106. AQHA Working Western Rail/NSBA (406)
107. YA Working Western Rail/NSBA (407)
108. Amt Working Western Rail/NSBA (408)
109. Lead Line 6 & Under
110. ***$100 ALL BREED WESTERN PLEASURE
111. Level 1 Western Pleasure/NSBA (411)
112. Level 1 YA Western Pleasure/NSBA (412)
113. Rookie YA Western Pleasure
114. Jr. Western Pleasure/NSBA (414)
115. YA Western Pleasure 13 & U/NSBA (415)
116. YA Western Pleasure 14 – 18/NSBA (416)
117. Level 1 Amt Western Pleasure/NSBA (417)
118. Rookie Amt Western Pleasure
119. Amt Select Western Pleasure/NSBA (419)
120. Amt Western Pleasure/NSBA (420)
AQHA One Fee Package Deal $250 Includes: Office Fees, AQHA Fees, Unlimited AQHA Entry Fees for 3 judges / 1 Horse - Multiple Riders. Does NOT include Stall, Shavings, Grounds Fee, Trail Fee, NSBA or All Breed classes.
● NSF Check Fee $35.00
● Concessions and services must have FCSC approval.
● Rookie pattern classes will run concurrent with AQHA classes.
● All Small Fry classes are 9 and under.
● All dogs must be leashed on grounds.
● FCSC is not responsible for loss, injury or damage
● No arrivals before 11:00 Friday May 29th
121. Sr. Western Pleasure/NSBA (421)
122. Small Fry Western Pleasure/NSBA (422)
123. Small Fry Horsemanship/NSBA (423)
124. ***$100 ALL BREED W/T WESTERN PLEASURE
125. Level 1 Amt W/T Western Pleasure/NSBA (425)
126. ***$100 ALL BREED W/T HORSEMANSHIP
127. Level 1 Amt W/T Horsemanship/NSBA (427)
128. Level 1 YA W/T Western Pleasure/NSBA (428)
129. Level 1 YA W/T Horsemanship/NSBA (429)
130. ***$100 ALL BREED HORSEMANSHIP
131. Level 1 YA Horsemanship/NSBA (431)
132. Rookie YA Horsemanship
133. YA Horsemanship 13 & Under/NSBA (433)
134. YA Horsemanship 14 – 18/NSBA (434)
135. Level 1 Amt Horsemanship/NSBA (435)
136. Rookie Amt Horsemanship
137. Amt Select Horsemanship/NSBA (437)
138. Amt Horsemanship/NSBA (438)
OFFICE FEE: $18.00 Per Horse
AQHA PROCESSING FEE: $10.00 Per Horse Per Judge GROUNDS FEE: $20.00 Per Horse Per Day with no stall TRAIL EQUIPMENT FEE: $15.00 Per Horse
ELECTRIC HOOKUP: Reservations Required
$80.00 Weekend Paid by 5/8/26; $100.00 On or after 5/9/26
STALLS: $100.00 Paid by 5/8/26 (3 bags shavings included)
$125.00 On or after 5/9/26
$80.00 stall only – bring your own shavings
Limited shavings available weekend of show - $10.00 bag. STALL RESERVATIONS: Stalls are not considered reserved until payment is received. Call 419-340-8288 to make reservations Checks only – NO STALL REFUNDS AFTER 5/9/26
Wayne County Saddle Club
2026 Open Contest Shows
Walk Trot Classes Start at 10 a.m.
June 27 • July 18 • August 8
August 22 • September 26
1. Walk,Trot Stakes (A, Y, L)
2. Walk Trot Poles (A, Y, L)
3. Walk Trot Ball Race (A, Y, L)
4. Walk Trot Barrels (A, Y, L)
5. Expo Barrels (2 min. time limit)
6. Open Barrels*
7. Small Fry Barrels*
8. Youth Barrels*
9. 30 & Over Barrels*
10. $50 Jackpot 3D Barrels*
11. Expo Poles (2 min. time limit)
12. Open Poles*
13. Small Fry Poles*
14. Youth Poles*
15. 30 & Over Poles*
16. $50 Jackpot 3D Poles*
17. Open Figure 8
18. Open Keyhole
19. Open Stakes*
20. Small Fry Stakes*
21. Youth Stakes*
22. 30 & Over Stakes*
23. Open Flags
24. Open Down & Back
25. Open Ball Race
26. Small Fry Ball Race
27. Youth Ball Race
*Denotes roll over classes. Must declare on both entry slips.
Leadline W, T: $4
Youth W, T: $4
Adult W, T: $6
Small Fry: $4
Youth: $5
PAYOUTS
Running Classes not before noon
Open: $6
30 & Over: $6
Exhibition: $3
3D Jackpot: $15
Leadline & Youth, W, T: Ribbons for 1st-5th
Small Fry: $1, 40%-30%-20%-10%
Youth: $2, 40%-30%-20%-10%
$4 Grounds Fee, per horse for non-members
Open/30 & Over/Adult W, T: $3, 40%-30%-20%-10%
*5th Place—Points Only
AGE DIVISION
(as of Jan. 1)
Leadline: 9 & under
Small Fry: 12 & under
Youth: 18 & under
Adult: 19 & older
Open: All ages
Show Attire: No sleeveless shirts, crop tops or shorts. Proper riding attire: Shirts w/sleeves, jeans, riding shoes. No Hey Dudes or Tennis Shoes.
To qualify for year-end awards: 1. Must be a 2026 WCSC member; 2. Must show in at least 3 of the 5 shows; 3. Must complete 4 hours of volunteering or pay a $125 sponsorship fee in leiu of hours.
Show Begins 6:30 p.m.
BUCKLE SERIES RULES
$50 3D JACKPOT: Extra $50 added per class w/a minimum of 15 entries for added $ $50 GUARANTEED 70% Payout - 1 sec. split
NIGHT FUN SHOW BUCKLE SERIES
• Must be a current WCSC member
• Must pay a one-time Buckle Series membership fee of $20 per horse and rider combo, per Jackpot
• Points do not count until membership is paid.
• Awards to top 3 in each division.
• Applies to classes 1 & 2 Only
• Must have 20 people to payout added money.
• Payout 50% Added Money may vary depending on sponsor.
• Must have T-Shirt, Long Pants, and Boots. NO TANK TOPS OR CUT OFFS!
1. $$ Added Jackpot 3D Barrels (1 sec. split) Side Pots: Pee Wee (12 & under), Youth (18 & under), Adult (19+) Class 1 only $5
2. $$ Added Jackpot 3D Poles (1 sec. split)
Must have 20 people to payout added money. Payout 50% Added money may vary depending on sponsor.
3. Stakes
4. Flags
5. Down & Back 6. Cake Walk 7. Mystery 8. Poles 9. Barrels
Must have 10 entries to
Wayne County Saddle Club
2026 Open Pleasure Shows
April
**For Year-End Awards: Must be a member. Must show more than half of the shows in that class. Must work 4 hours in any of the WCSC shows and events, or pay a $125 or more sponsorship per member. Points will accumulate per horse/rider combination. Same horse-same rider in each division. Proper show attire required. Western Classes: Western shirt, jeans, boots and western hat or hard hat. English Classes: Polo shirt or English shirt, breaches or jeans, hard hat and boots. Horses should be presented groomed and in good health.
Questions? Contact Angela Bonewitz (330) 465-8386
1. JACKPOT Open Halter H/P/M
2. Open Halter Stock Type
3. Open Halter Non-Stock Type
4. Ranch Halter
5. Small Fry / Leadline Halter
6. Small Fry / Leadline Showmanship
7. Showmanship 9-13 E/W
8. Showmanship 14-18 E/W
9. Showmanship 19 & Over E/W
10. Open Showmanship
11. JACKPOT Open Showmanship
* Break *
12. Leadline Pleasure
13. Small Fry W/T Pleasure E/W
14. English Pleasure 9-13
15. English Pleasure 14-18
16. English Pleasure 19 & Over
17. Open English Pleasure
Small Fry/Leadline $6 EF Ribbons for 1st thru 5th place Walk/Trot
18. W/T English Pleasure
19. JACKPOT Open English Pleasure * Break *
20. JACKPOT Open Western Pleasure
21. W/T Western Pleasure
22. Western Pleasure 9-13
23. Western Pleasure 14-18
24. Western Pleasure 19 & Over
25. JACKPOT Open Ranch Pleasure
26. W/T Ranch Pleasure
27. Ranch Pleasure 9-13
28. Ranch Pleasure 14-18
29. Ranch Pleasure 19 & Over
30. Ranch Pattern 9-13
31. Ranch Pattern 14-18
32. Ranch Pattern 19 & Over
33. Open Ranch Pattern
34. W/T Ranch Pattern
40%-30%-20%-10% Fifth place for
$6 EF $3, 40%-30%-20%-10% Fifth place for points only Youth 9-13
Lewis Road Riding Ring Show Grounds • Cleveland Metroparks, Olmsted Falls
SUNDAY, JULY 12
Lewis Rd. Show Grounds Judge: Jay Lanzer
&
SUNDAY, AUGUST 9
Carlisle Equestrian Center Judge: Dave Riedel
CORPORATE SPONSOR: Horsemen’s Corral
DRILL TEAM SPONSOR: Creative Embroidery by Design
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Lewis Rd. Show Grounds Judge: Amber Wise
TROPHIES and HIGH POINT RIBBON SPONSOR: Gold Star Awards
FOR
SERIES FOR EQUITATION CLASSES (2 at Carlisle Equestrian and 2 at Lewis Road) • Qualified Classes are indictated with **
1. Halter Class - all breeds
2. Jr. Showmanship 17 & Under
3. Showmanship 18 & Over 10 Minute Break for Tack Change and Warm Up for Under Saddle Classes
4. Open English Equitation **18 & Over
5. Open English Pleasure 18 & Over
6. Leadline Equitation** English and Western 8 & Under
7. Pre Walk/Trot Equitation** English and Western
8. Open English Equitation** 17 & Under
9. Open English Pleasure 17 & Under
10. Walk/Trot Equitation** English and Western 18 & Over
11. Walk/Trot Pleasure English and Western 18 & Over
12. Walk/Trot Equitation** English and Western 13-17
13. Walk/Trot Pleasure English and Western 13-17
14. Walk/Trot Equitation** English and Western 12 & Under
15. Walk/Trot Pleasure English and Western 12 & Under
16. Open Bareback Equitation**
17. Walk/Trot Bareback Equitation**
18. Walk/Trot Road Hack English and Western (Riders can cross enter) — INTERMISSION —
Entry Fees: $5 per class or $35 for 7 classes or more. MUST BE THE SAME HORSE/EXHIBITOR TEAM.
Riders, spectators & volunteers are welcome at all our events. Food will be onsite.
SHOW RULES
1. Registration must be made at least two (2) classes prior to your class - for a refund, you must cancel two (2) classes prior to your class.
2. Proper show attire is optional - long pants and boots required. Helmets are mandatory for anyone under 18 on a horse on the show grounds.
3. Riders may only compete in one division throughout the show. Some classes are also restricted by rider age.
• Leadline: Rider has never shown riding on their own.
• Pre Walk/Trot: Rider has never shown in a class requiring canter. A trainer is allowed in the ring on foot.
19. Walk/Trot Generation Gap
Riders must have a 10 year age difference; oldest rides first. (Riders can cross enter)
20. Walk/Trot Jackpot Equitation (Riders can cross enter) ($10 entry fee; $100 payout for top 3 riders)
21. Open Western Equitation** 18 & Over
22. Open Western Pleasure 18 & Over
23. Open Western Equitation** 17 & Under
24. Open Western Pleasure 17 & Under
25. Walk/Trot Jack Benny Pleasure 39 and Over (Riders can cross enter)
26. Walk/Trot Musical Sacks (Riders can cross enter)
27. Pre Walk/Trot Keyhole
28. Walk/Trot Keyhole
29. Open Keyhole
30. Pre Walk/Trot Barrel Racing
31. Walk/Trot Barrel Racing
32. Open Barrel Racing
33. Walk/Trot Egg and Spoon (Riders can cross enter)
34. Pre Walk/Trot Pole Bending
35. Walk/Trot Pole Bending
36. Open Pole Bending
• Walk/Trot: Rider has never shown in a class requiring canter.
• Open: Rider has cantered (loped) in competition.
• Open riders wishing to school a horse in a lower division must still pay an entry fee and enter with no number so they are not judged.
4. Dogs must be leashed at all times and spectators and participants must follow Metroparks rules.
Proceeds to benefit Angels Haven Horse Rescue to aid in the care and comfort of their rescue horses and to the Cleveland Metroparks for improving the show grounds.
Cleveland Metroparks and Angels Haven Horse Rescue or anyone connected with the show, will not assume responsibility for accident, injury, loss or damage to persons, animals or property. Angels Haven Horse Rescue is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit volunteer based organization.
IBRA Rules Apply. $5 Grounds Fee. $5 Pee Wee. $10 Youth. $12 Adult. $5 Exhibition Barrels and Poles. 70% payback with 10 or more entries.
of 100 entries)
1. New Moon Pee Wee 8 & under 2. Crescent Youth Barrels 9-18 3. Twilight
*Aug 8 Fair Show (IBRA) added $ enhanced starts at 10 AM $10 gate admission, no grounds fee. FRIDAY NIGHT SPEED SHOW SHOW STARTS AT 6 PM (except for Aug. 8 Fair Show)
MOONBEAM EXHIBITION POLES (Maximum of 50 entries)
5. New Moon Pee Wee Poles 8 & under
6. Crescent Youth Poles 9-18
7. Twilight Adult Poles
8. Moonlight Open Poles
9. Crescent Youth Keyhole 18 & under
AQHA Rules Apply. All Breeds and Disciplines Welcomed. $5 Small Fry, $10 Youth Classes, $10 Equestrian with Disabilities (bring their own horses), $12 Adult Classes. $20 For Added Money Classes (fair show) 33, 46, & 55 with 10 entries Pays 3 Places. 70% Payback with 10 entries. Same horse / rider combo cannot show W/T & 3 gait. Western Pleasure – No cross entry in Ranch Rail & Ranch Riding. Ranch Rail & Ranch Riding – No cross entry in Western Pleasure. Classes may be combined at show committee discretion.
TREASURER Margaret Hite 740/407-6986 treasurer@ohconline.com
Greetings From Your President
Charlene Santee, our newly elected vice president, and I attended all the regional meetings and had the opportunity to share our goals for the Horseman’s Council and to hear from the respective chapters about their goals for 2026. Almost every chapter officer attended, so thank you to those who felt this was a good use of time learning about the Council’s plans for the future and sharing their chapter’s plans for 2026.
Information sharing in these smaller meetings is a major benefit, as chapters can partner to complete activities, discuss ideas that pique interest, learn from others what worked and what didn’t, and organize events
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ASHTABULA
Hello everyone, hopefully this finicky weather is treating you all well! Here in Auglaize County, we are eager to get the season of fun started as I’m sure you all are too. We have started looking at some dates for future shows, so hopefully you can all attend!
In the past month, Auglaize County held a junior ambassadors awards event with pizza, wings and ‘showmanship’ bowling. This ranged from the junior ambassadors ‘trotting’ to the cone and shaking their fake tails, spinning, rolling the ball between their legs backward, and a freefor-all. The kids had a lot of fun and won some pretty cool prizes. In one activity, the kids all picked a cupcake and inside a few of the cupcakes there was food coloring. Whatever color was inside was the color of the gift bag. These prizes were all sorts of fun and goofy items with some of them being a hat with upside-down writing and horsehair socks. These kids deserved some fun after successfully
that benefit their local equine community.
Further, during these meetings I was able to introduce some volunteers who have stepped up to take on leadership positions within the state OHC structure: Brent DeWees, Washington County member is OHC Foundation President; Sue Zinni, Delaware County member is Nominations Chair; Carole Cornwell, Greene County member is the Finance Chair; Becky Porter, Logan County member is the Awards Chair; Holly Fitzgerald, At Large member is the Equine Affaire Chair and Terry Johnson, Preble County member the Webmaster. Thanks to these folks, OHC remains strong, with
Katie and Harley Mertz, ‘showmanship’ bowling.
being top in the state! The first place winner was Harley Mertz, our 2025 equine queen. She won the Northwestern Region belt buckle. Second was Olivia Herron and third was Veronica
PRESIDENT Mary Alice Kuhn 330/413-6589 president@ohconline.com
dedicated leadership in place for the future. To see everyone who comprises the OHC state leadership team, visit ohconline. com and select ‘leadership’ at the top of the homepage. And not to be overlooked, if a new chapter officer took the reins this year, everyone would thank you and be grateful for taking on this role, as chapter officers keep their local equine enthusiasts engaged. To find a chapter contact, select ‘find chapter’ at the top of the OHC website homepage. As spring starts to sprout, we begin a new round of tracking trail miles and saddle hours, as well as the hundreds of hours our volunteers will spend maintaining Ohio’s trails. In
Mertz. Thank you so much for your support to our county!
~Veronica Mertz
BELMONT
Belmont County chapter of the OHC is planning a cleanup of the riding trails at Barkcamp the week of July 27. From Monday, July 27 through Sunday, August 2 trailer parking will be $30 at the horse campsite on a first come
VICE PRESIDENT Charlene Santee 740/670-3470 vicepresident@ohconline.com
OHC COUNTY LINES EDITOR Kirstie Seeger 937/974-3345 countylineeditor@ohconline.com
April, OHC will have a booth in its usual place at Equine Affaire, and in the months that follow, our state, regional, and chapter rides begin. I can’t end without a shoutout to the youth members who have already embarked on a year of new, unique activities in the Junior Ambassador program. We’re done planning, now it’s time to enjoy our equines in the great outdoors, no matter your age, discipline of riding, or breed of equine. Have a fun time wherever you ride, and know that as an OHC member, you are “Making Ohio Better, Four Hooves at a Time.”
~Mary Alice Kuhn
basis. Contact Sharon at 951/7128921 to reserve your spot! Work projects commence Tuesday morning and will finish up on Friday with a night ride planned for Friday. Five dollars per rider for a light stick, tentatively planning on the purple trail.
Saturday, ride at leisure with a potluck dinner at 5:30 p.m. The silent auction items will be available to peruse and put in your bids. There are also tickets available for the 50/50 raffle which concludes Sunday evening. The silent auction items will conclude Sunday as well. Any questions or for more information contact Jim Bolon at 740/391-3396
CLARK
Bring on spring! The weather is warming but with it are torrential down pours. However, this too shall pass. Clark County has had a very quiet winter. We decided last fall to postpone meetings during January and February. Our Christmas party was also delayed
Junior Ambassadors at the awards banquet.
Harley Mertz with her 2025 belt buckle.
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due to freezing temperatures and we had a fun potluck at the first meeting in March.
The opportunity to be outside with your horse has arrived. One day in late February the sun was out and the temperature was around 60 degrees. Social media was full of pictures and reports of riders out on the trails. I had a beautiful ride with friends at Sycamore State Park which was only my third time to Sycamore. The trails and footing were in great shape and the creeks were a little high which make them fun to cross. Prior to that I had been hand walking my horse when possible and doing some in hand pole work telling myself that every little bit helps.
Buck Creek State park is getting some TLC this spring. This park is ridden by many people in the surrounding areas. If you have not been to Buck Creek it is flat and dries quickly in the spring. The perfect spot for early season riding and conditioning. Clark County OHC is very grateful to have received a grant from the state OHC to hire a Fecon machine and operator to push the overgrowth way back. We are also extremely grateful to Madison County OHC for contributing to our cause with a very generous donation. If that isn’t enough our gratitude continues to Buck Creek State park who is helping to get the work completed. It takes a village!
The regional meeting was attended by Anne Demmy, Kailene Wells and Jonna Ledyard. Each chapter gave a report on what plans they have for summer and plans for the Central Region ride were discussed.
Equus Now has been having
informative seminars on Saturdays which have been perfect for inclement weather. Equine Affaire is April 9-12 and offers opportunities to volunteer either setting up on Wednesday or taking a turn at the booth informing people about OHC. Of course there is always shopping. It is a great event to support any way you choose.
Come ride with Clark County!
~Jonna Ledyard
CLINTON
Hello fellow horsemen and horsewomen! It’s been a busy start to the season for many of our members, with new four legged additions, chilly trail rides, and a few unexpected equine adventures.
Member Abby Fox and I recently attended an adoption event in Cincinnati in search of the perfect camping partner. While I’m still on the hunt for a new pup, Abby found her match! Jazzy, an energetic little terrier mix, stole her heart right away. She’s full of spark but sweet as can be, we’re excited to see her settling into her new home. With the weather teasing us with brief warmups, Amanda Snell, Diana Spencer, and I seized the moment for a ride at CCSP. The ‘moment’ turned out to be a windy day with a high of 32 degrees, but despite the chill we had a wonderful outing. Fresh air, good horses, and good company make even the coldest ride worthwhile.
As the temperatures warm, the mud returns—and with it, the occasional slip. Nakota found a muddy patch and zigged when she should’ve zagged, resulting in an inverted pelvis. After a quick call to the vet and treatment with bute and Banamine, she was more comfortable, but still not quite right. Thankfully, equine chiropractor Greg Neuman was able to come out. He worked with her for nearly an hour, and when her pelvis finally went back into place, the pop was
clear. The good news: Nakota is already 90 percent improved and should be back to 100 percent in just a few days.
This incident is a good reminder of just how beneficial equine chiropractic care can be. Horse chiropractors use non invasive, manual adjustments to relieve restrictions in the spine and joints, which can help with: performance enhancement, injury rehabilitation and prevention, improved mobility, behavioral improvements and common conditions treated. As always, it’s vital to use a licensed veterinarian or certified equine chiropractor with specialized training in equine anatomy to ensure safe, effective treatment. When you read this spring will be here, see you on the trails! Take a kid riding and see the future.
~Sue Lamb
CUYAHOGA
Can it be? We survived a brutal winter and are now enjoying April showers. Get your rain gear out and hit the trails—don’t let anything get in your way of riding. You only live once and you have to grab the happiness that a good trail ride brings. Then you can go on to tackle all the other things on your list.
Have a new horse? Get a good helmet as the safety factor of a helmet is about 5 to 6 years and then it should be replaced. Check the inside for the date of your helmet, it may save your life. How about a vest, yes this is another expense but compared to a broken whatever, it is a
bargain. Do your research and consider this your insurance policy. Besides you may influence another to do the same and you may protect them as well. Have you set any goals yet? Remember how last year after the ice and snow melted you said you would ride more and let the world function a little bit without you? Did you do that? Well this is a brand new, chance because you will never live again the year 2026 and once it is December 31 it is gone forever. Grab the saddle, pad and bridle and live the year. If you don’t, then someday when the opportunity, for what ever reason, is gone, you will have regrets instead of a memory full of wonder.
Track your miles, as they are turned into the parks to prove we do use trails and would appreciate more. Volunteer to help make this happen and you will be glad you did.
If you are not an OHC member, please consider becoming one. We are a friendly, fun loving group of riders or were riders and we welcome you! You don’t even have to have a horse right now. You will find all sorts of great activities or learning opportunities for you to enjoy. Go to www.ohconline.com and hit ‘Find a Chapter’. All the information will be at your fingertips on the website. Cuyahoga County Chapter rides Cleveland Metropark trails and well beyond. Now go wallow in the mud, covered with horse hair and other good stuff and enjoy today.
The sun may even be shinning.
~Penny Passalacqua
DELAWARE
Happy April to everyone from your Delaware Chapter friends! March and April are two busy months for our chapter and the OHC organization as a whole. Our State OHC Membership Meeting, slated for March 14, had not yet occurred at the time of this article’s submission. Details from this meeting will be shared in next month’s column. Some preliminary highlights from this meeting include the recognition of some of our Delaware members, specifically our trail maintenance volunteers. Congratulations to member, Pat O’Connell, for winning one of the OHC State Trail Maintenance $25 gift cards for his volunteer hours working on the Alum Creek trails. Pat was one of 20 volunteers who were
Clark County OHC
Abby and Jazzy
Nakota before chiroprator.
Sue, Amanda, and Diana, winter ride.
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randomly selected to receive a $25 gift card from either Tractor Supply, Cracker Barrel, Ohio State Parks, or ODNR camping passes. Our trail maintenance crew leader, Bobbi Arters, along with her sister, Carole Bosich, achieved the ‘Top Twenty’ for most volunteer hours. Their names will be included in a drawing for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift certificate to be announced during the Spring OHC membership meeting.
This month’s chapter meeting is scheduled for Friday, April 3 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Kilbourne United Methodist Church on SR 521, Delaware, Ohio. We welcome guests, invite your friends and family to join us. The highlight of our business meeting will be our awards ceremony to recognize those members who achieved milestones in trail mileage and/ or saddle hours for 2025.
Horse lovers everywhere will again converge on Columbus, Ohio, for the 2026 Equine Affaire, April 9-12 at the Ohio Expo Center. Enjoy four action-packed, entertaining, and informative days focused on the beloved equine. For those Delaware members planning to attend, consider inviting a fellow member(s) for an impromptu meetup for lunch or a shopping expedition. Text, call, or post on our Delaware Facebook page to communicate with friends. The more the merrier!
Our chapter is looking forward to April 14, when employees from IGS Energy will once again lend support to our trail maintenance efforts at Alum Creek State Park. For the past several years, many IGS Energy employees have graciously volunteered their time and efforts on several bridle trail projects in fulfillment of their volunteer day commitment. This year’s project will involve the construction of a new mounting station and kiosk at the horse camp. Member Rosemary Staeck, owner of Equus Now!, has generously offered to pay for the mounting station materials.
We look forward to seeing lots of our OHC friends enjoy our Alum Creek bridle trails as this year’s riding season gets into full swing. We invite you to reach out to our trail maintenance crew leader, Bobbi Arters, for current trail conditions before leaving home.
Happy Trails to all,
~Theresa Burke
FAIRFIELD
I’m hoping that spring has arrived and we have all been able to shake off winter. This is going to be a pretty small article since I haven’t heard any exciting news. I do know that a couple of members were able to enjoy a vacation someplace warmer than Ohio. I did see Chip showing off his dancing abilities while on his and Becky’s cruise. I am not sure where Sue and Chuck ended up as they were just getting in the car and heading south. Anyway, onto nothing really newsworthy. Our meeting in February was very short as it was on Super Bowl night. We discussed upcoming trail projects as soon as weather cooperates.
Chris posted some work that was done at Hocking with sites three and four pull throughs being extended by management. With help from some of our members new picnic tables were put where needed. Since it is now April and the trails are open, go and see the improvements.
A worksheet was passed around for the AAYS in May—that is our money-making project, please help out.
In my running around I have run into some of the McGuire family. I can tell you right now they have put in more miles already than I probably turned in for the last five years. I happened to go to a horse auction in March that if I had been in the market one might have come home with me. She was an all-black beauty with the kindest eyes and disposition. I hope she ended up in a good home. I have to add to this story that I don’t normally go to auctions but, was dropping off a friend. Do you want to look like a duck out of water; just try and blend into an Amish auction.
~Anita Hoon
FULTON
Our February first aid class at the Swanton fire department was remarkably interesting and informative. Twenty members and guests attended and Chief Cuyler Kepling did a fantastic job presenting a lot of information in two hours.
In March, we had a chapter meeting on March 3 at Bunkers where 31 members attended. We made a couple of adjustments to the calendar, confirmed our Winter Blues brunch and awarded prizes drawn from all members who turned in trail miles, saddle
hours and volunteer hours. Our members totaled 13,655 trail miles, 655 saddle hours and 38 volunteer trail cleanup hours in 2025. We also started forming committees for 2026 activities.
In April, we have a chapter meeting planned for April 7, probably at Bunkers, but time will tell. After this winter, I am sure everyone will be anxious to get outside as much as possible. We maybe could go to Reed Road. Harry Hughes Youth Equestrian Center has scheduled their spring cleanup for April 11 a.m. starting at 9 a.m. Dalton is hosting a horse and tack sale at WB Ranch in Swanton on April 18. We continue to seek a venue for our Cowboy Christmas Shopping/Tack Swap in December of 2026. Chapter meetings are currently on the first Tuesday of the month at The Bunker Bar in Holland, November through April. During warmer months, we meet at Reed Road Ranglers usually during a camping weekend. 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.
~Kathy Brown
GALLIA
As we move into April, we are hopeful for beautiful weather so we can begin riding again.
In March, a few families attended the chapter meeting for OHC. Later this month, several families are planning to attend the state meeting. Our junior ambassadors have been working hard to attend new things to get points for the ambassador award. Currently, there is not much activity due to ongoing rain. Once we get some dry weather, we plan to begin working on the trails to prepare for the riding season.
If anyone has questions, please feel free to reach out.
~Angie
GEAUGA
There has been a length of time since someone has written for the Geauga County OHC chapter. It is a wonderful, active chapter with warm, friendly riders. And so I have volunteered to report their journey.
At the February board meeting the officers gathered to present plans for 2026. Several secondary members were also present. Much was discussed.
President Donna Kennedy has sent out her March newsletter. In her issue are included the officers and their position; President Donna Kennedy, Vice President Linda Golding, Secretary Jennifer Salo, Treasurer Cindy Orben, Trail Miles Coordinator Linda Golding, Web Designer Cindy Wynne, Park Liaison Michelle Rossman, Liaison to the Foundation for Geauga Parks Sue Lundstrom.
Donna shares her enthusiasm for upcoming functions and invites others to volunteer. She notes horseback programs offered by the Geauga parks, and points specifically to the Geauga Park’s use of Geauga OHC photos in the Ohio Park and Recreation Association’s Annual Photo Contest. Way to go, riders! She also mentions a trailer safety seminar offered at Big D’s. Yes, Geauga OHC is thankful for Big D’s and its sponsorship.
Donna and Linda attended the Northeastern Ohio Regional meeting hosted by Penny P. OHC state president Mary Alice Kuhn welcomed everyone, and then the various chapters shared their stories and projects.
Barbara Jurgens, a recent member of Geauga OHC, has been recognized by the state for her trail work at Headwaters Park. She received a gift certificate for a one-night stay at any Ohio State Park. Congratulations, Barbara. I look forward to many good times with the Geauga OHC chapter, and to sharing with readers all the fun rides and events they have. Come join Geauga riders as they enjoy the ambiance of Geauga County.
~R. Reynolds
GUERNSEY
Trail Work-R-US at Salt Fork! As of this article we have covered 21 miles of trail, with
Bartholomule, Rod’s mule, rest easy partner.
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five crew members, totaling 136 hours worked. In those miles, we had to cut our way out of three major tree wrecks. The trees in the pictures with this article represent the biggest pile-up of the year! It took us about one and a half hours to clear the trail. The pile-up was just before the 6-mile marker, and the end of the Red Trail. In the first picture you see Mike M. and I cutting up the last bits of the carnage.
In the second picture Bob W. and Mike M. walking under ‘London Bridge!’ It’s a red oak and because it’s off the ground it won’t rot in any of our lifetimes, and will make a cool landmark! Besides, we didn’t want to spend the hour it would have taken to get it off the trail. It’s well over 75 feet long and about 12 feet off the ground on a fairly steep hillside. We stopped for lunch at the picnic table, which is at the 3-mile marker and the halfway point of the trail. It was an awesome weather day and we were having some even more awesome conversation, as we ate our sandwiches! You can see I’m making a point about something as I hold my hands out (I’ve got no idea, what that was!) And Dave took the selfie style pic as Bob and Mike listen in!
If you would like to help, look for our work day announcements on: Salt Fork Bridle Trails, on Facebook. We could use your help! Most of our work time is consumed in removing the cut-up tree from the trail. If you want to talk to me personally about the trail work, reach out to me on our Facebook page.
Mark your calendars for our annual Salt Fork trail work day
on Saturday, April 25. Work assignment will be handed out at 8 a.m., while we share donuts and coffee. We head-out on the trail at 9 a.m. If you’re not able to physically work, but would like to help out, we could use 12 riders (in sets of two), to ride all the trails with trash bags to pick up litter. Meaning, your horse will need to tolerate the trash bag! Lunch will be provided for all. A campfire will be held Saturday evening.
Counting the days till warmer weather. Dee Dee and I look forward to seeing you on the trail!
~Lee Randolph
HAMILTON
Woohoo! April is finally here and our calendar is now filling up with warm weather adventures. Before we get ahead of ourselves, Let’s start a quick lookback at prior month’s activities.
We had a full house for Ask the Veterinarian, a fun, open microphone night where the audience spontaneously creates the program by asking their burning questions to a panel of veterinarians. No questions are off the table. Three microphones, three brilliant equine veterinarians, three capable veterinarian assistants, and one engaged audience created a terrific night for our third winter educational program. Topics included: how to treat rain rot; equine telehealth visits; dentistry; vitamin E supplementation; biologics; chiropractic care; body work; leptospirosis; moon blindness; and what to use/not use on wounds.
Thank you Miamitown Equine Veterinary Service’s Drs. Anna Hood DVM, CVMMP, Jamie Nickels DVM, and Emily Crawford DVM for answering all of our questions. One question at a time you make us more knowledgeable horse owners. Thank you Veterinary Assistants Jade Krimmer, Megan Scarth, and Mandy Burman-Smith, for supporting the ‘For More Information’ handout and display tables. You help the learning
continue. Thank you audience members for bringing your questions. Without you there would be no program. To all, your time, knowledge, talents, questions and answers were very much appreciated. Thank you for a wonderful evening.
Hamilton County OHC’s, Ann Frederick traveled to Wilmington to attend OHC’s Southwest Regional President’s meeting where regional county presidents gather to network and share information specific to their county. Topics include: club activities; trail maintain; trail rides; trail miles; the Jr. Ambassador program; club successes and failures; and membership growth. Additionally, OHC President, Mary Alice Kuhn was present along with members of her OHC state leadership team to answer any questions the presidents may have. Excellent meeting. Looking ahead, to complete our winter educational series, we happily anticipate Jennifer McCullough, Native Plant Nursery Coordinator from Great Parks of Hamilton County presentation on the history of Miami Whitewater Forest and her speaking on ‘What’s Going on at the Miami Whitewater Forest Shaker Trace Seed Nursery?’.
Kicking off our warm weather activities include: Saturday, April 25 Moonlight Ride #1 at the Shaker Trace Trail; Sunday, May 24 Crosby Memorial Day Parade; and Monday, May 25 Cheviot Memorial Day Parade. All should be a good time.
Come join us! Check out HCOHC on Facebook at ‘Ohio Horseman’s Council Hamilton County Chapter’. To access our website and membership application link, go to ohconline. com, ‘find chapter’ and type in ‘Hamilton County’ in the search bar. We would love to have you in our herd.
~Ann Frederick HARRISON
Hello OHC! April showers bring May flowers. I am thankful as we get into warmer weather, but did
I ever mention I hate mud! My horse looks like a mud ball most of the time, and it seems pointless to clean him. He just enjoys rolling in the mud. Not a good look on a paint, but he apparently doesn’t care. I am more than ready for drier weather, and it can’t come to soon. We had a nice club meeting in February. I must apologize for mentioning last month our ride was tentatively set for the second weekend in June. At the February meeting, the decision was made to host our regional ride on the first weekend in June this year. Some of our members had conflicts and it was felt that to have enough help, the first weekend in June was going to work better this year. Again, I am sorry for any miscommunication and hope this move doesn’t mess up too many summer plans. As the ride gets closer, I will announce our planned activities, but I think Dusty Carpenter will be back to play and sing on that Saturday night! He is so talented and gave us a great show last year. Faye is working on getting coverage for the Scavenger Hunt this year. It has been a big success the last two years and we hope to keep it going by making it a little better each year. I hear Renee and Bob are stepping up to help. Thank you both and all our volunteers who put together our awesome ride. We couldn’t do it without you all! I know Cindy is already working on some children’s activities, and I have no doubt Bill P. will be hosting a fishing tournament for the kids! What a great bunch we have!
Mike and Lee
Mike and Bob Lunch break.
Drs. Jamie Nickels, Anna Hood and Emily Crawford.
Jeanette’s horses waiting on spring.
Renee’s spring wreath creation.
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Mark recently sent out an ODNR volunteer release form for those who help maintain the trails and campground at Harrison State Forest. Please get these filled out and back to him. It sounds like ODNR is going to monitor these a little more closely than in years past. I guess even if you ride and snip, they want one on file. Speaking of which, be sure to keep track of your volunteer hours. It is important that our time gets counted and turned in each year. There is also going to be a chainsaw certification class that is required if you plan to use one at the forest. Please contact Mark for more information on the class if you want to attend.
Lori and I discussed our club hosting a lead line obstacle class for non-riders or riders looking for something fun to try. She is brainstorming on obstacle building. If you have any ideas or want to help, please contact Lori. It sounds like fun and I am looking forward to it. Any time you can spend with your horse is a good time. As always, we welcome new folks to join our club and get involved in horse activities in our area. Shoot us an email at harrisoncountyohc@ gmail.com for more information.
~Sherrie Hart
HOCKING
If you haven’t done so yet, it’s time to touch base with our favorite equine professionals. You know who I mean, the farrier and the vet!
Spring has sprung and the trails are open. Many of us are eager to start logging trail miles, saddle hours, and volunteer time to keep our trails open and enjoyable. It’s important to get your horses examined by the professionals. Not a whole lot to report this month from our club. Once again, we will be having a club ride in Hocking at Cowboy Larry’s. The date is July 17-19. We will be having a potluck dinner followed
by some sort of auction, as our once-a-year fundraiser. As of now, we are debating on changing some things up. A silent auction has been suggested as well as only allowing new items to be donated to the auction. Perhaps even non-horse items seen how we all seem to have more than enough as it is. I will be posting more information as the date becomes closer.
The next big event is Equine Affaire. I get a kick out of going because every year I seem to run into more people whom I recognize than I did the year before. If you see me, be sure to wave “hello”!
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
April! It is 20 degrees on March 2 here, so that seems about right. Spring is always a little unpredictable, but thank goodness it is here. It’s been a long winter. We got our horses out on a couple warm days at the end of February. Mine looks like an overgrown Shetland pony. Let the shedding begin. By now we will have had our spring banquet. It was hard to
schedule this year with Easter and the Equine Affaire pushing back our usual date. Next month I will have mileage and raffle results, and some pictures. Our March 2 meeting had a great turnout and a guest speaker. Member Ramona Stoner discussed Legacy Point and arranged for manager Jason Blitz to speak to our group. Legacy Point is a 2-3 mile bridle trail with the potential for more miles in the future. It is located on State Route 241 on the old Holmes County Landfill site. Trail parking is located near TR 326. There is a map on the Holmes County Facebook page. While this is a work in progress, it is great to see a new trail in the area. There will be a work weekend with camping for members and secondary members May 15-17 with work time scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon. Mohican will be opening April 1. While our new manager, Will, does not ride, he is very committed to having the trails ready for the opening. Can’t wait to get back to Mohican! And, one of our members, Diane Tankred has a new mule. Not only is he a beautiful tall red mule, he is gaited! Can’t wait to see him. Bruce and I went to Malabar on a warm Tuesday at the end of February. We had both horses out for a ride up and down the lane a few days before that. It was over 50 degrees both days and it felt great. The old horse felt good and the young one behaved herself. Bruce also met his buddies Rodney and Ron up at Hinkley a few days later, then
the warm weather was gone and the snow was back. The snow is gone and it is warming up. Even the rain is welcome after the cold this winter.
It’s time to clean things up here and get ready to ride. Ride on and enjoy Equine Affaire!
~Bev Hanna LAKE
April is here, along with mud, mud, and more mud. We have been working on our May presentation about horses for the Willoughby Hills Library at the Willoughby Hills Community Center in Willoughby Hills, Lake County. It will be Tuesday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m. on the lower level of the community center. Join us...come and cheer us on! Donna is bringing grooming aids and tack for a short ‘show and tell’. She is also talking about costs of horses and horserelated issues such as boarding your horse. Michelle S. will offer a history and purpose of the Ohio Horse Council with its many chapters. She will explain how the OHC helps the state of Ohio. Rayneen will discuss the various ways to experience horses. Barbara will share her experiences with her mini-horse. Cheyanne will explain choosing the right horse for your purpose. Rosemary, Michelle, and myself went to Big D’s for purchasing gift cards as rewards for those who turned in their trail miles for 2025. The staff at Big D’s was warm and welcoming. They were quite helpful as we shopped for items for ourselves too. They also informed us of upcoming events to be held at Big D’s such as intense tack cleaning, or proper posture and body alignment while riding. Thank you for your continuing support, Big D’s. Four of our members Rosemary, Michelle, Char, and Barbara, rented stations at Blue
Cindy and Faye at Phoenix Horse Show.
Blacksmith
Between the ears.
Ron, Rodney, and Bruce.
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Lakes Farm’s tack sale. They sold many of their horse items as well as three saddles.
Four of our members attended Cuyahoga chapter’s banquet in Independence on March 1. Rosemary and Ken Barbara, and myself enjoyed good food and good times with members of OHC from Summit and Medina Counties along with Cuyahoga members. I ended up buying a helmet from their auction. Joe Coalter, the auctioneer, handsome as always, loves his job and is certainly persuasive and entertaining. The helmet that I bought will be donated to Kris Ropp’s Introduction to Horses program.
Again come join us in May at the Willoughby Hills Community Center for our Lake County OHC presentation on horses. You’ll get to meet some of these people about whom I have been writing. Stay strong, stay safe, enjoy the ride.
~Rayneen Tisovic LAWRENCE
Hi gang, now that the snow and ice are gone, we now face the trials and tribulations of the eternal mud. As soon as you clean the horses up they turn around and find the blackest deepest muddy spot and roll like there is no tomorrow. This is a never-ending battle that lasts until way into May. I think they do this on purpose.
Our club is gearing up for a new and productive year. Cheryl and I attended the regional meeting and sat with Gallia County and had a great time. We are going to try to plan some events with them in the future which hopefully will help both clubs increase membership.
The club meets every second Monday at the Wayne National Forest’s Nature Building across from the dam at Lake Vesuvius.
Meetings usually start around 6:30 p.m. During the summer months we like to combine the meetings with workdays at Paddle Creek Horse Camp. We always have a great time and of course there is always food involved. Everyone is always welcome to our meetings and workdays. Happy Trails, ~Susan White
LICKING
Spring is officially here! State forest trails opened April 1 but please be mindful of trail integrity with the wet muddy conditions. As always, with Licking County park trails, please ‘call before you haul’ for trail status, 740/349-4823.
Mark your calendars for our monthly chapter trail rides as follows: Earth day ride, Wednesday, April 22, 4 p.m., Infirmary Mound and Sunday, April 26, 10 a.m., Infirmary Mound; Derby day ride, Sunday, May 3, 10 a.m., Taft north and Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. Infirmary Mound; Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m., Infirmary Mound and Sunday, June 28, 10 a.m., Lobdell; Back to school ride, Sunday, August 16, 10 a.m., Taft north; Fried chicken ride, Saturday, September 12, 10 a.m., Infirmary Mound and Sunday, September 27, 10 a.m., Lobdell; Fall ride, Sunday, November 1, 10 a.m., Lobdell. Reminders will be posted monthly and will also be posted on Facebook.
The central region ride will be held at AEP Fallon Park, July 17-19. The Gibby State Ride will be the first week of August at Barkcamp. Our Dillon State Park ‘Year of the Horse’ campout weekend will be October 16-18. Our chapter has been approved for the Mohican State Forest camping May 8-10. More details to follow.
Congratulations to our top 10 trail riders of the year with mileage as follows: Leah Palestrant 657 miles, Linda Paterson 536 miles, Sandy Witherspoon 480 miles, Liz Shiplet 646 miles, Nancy Radebaugh 461 miles, Sigrid Batten 404 miles, Kirk Lloyd 323 miles, Bill Jacksom 229 miles, Lisa Jackson 229 miles, Theresa Nikodym 206 miles. 200 miles patches were presented to Dustin Batten, Bill Jackson and Lisa Jackson. 500 mile patches were presented to Nancy Radebaugh and Theresa Nikodym. 1000 mile patch was presented to Kirk Lloyd.
A monthly dryland musher user schedule will be posted on both the Licking Park District website and Facebook. This will enable safe usage by both equine riders and dryland mushers.
Congratulations to Rubi Lechuga, Jr. Ambassador representative! Rubi won high point and was awarded a belt buckle.
An updated Dillon trail map is now available online on the state OHC webpage under our chapter. Thanks to Craig Santee for maintenance completed at Dillon. 20-30 carsonite sign posts have been placed on the horse trails. Downed trees have been removed from the top loop and another trail maintenance day will be scheduled.
Diana Wheatley will be taking over the organization of our annual Fun Show scheduled for July 25 at Infirmary Mound. OHC members $30 all day, non-members $35 all day. More details to follow.
The annual Christmas party brunch will be held on Sunday December 6, 1 p.m. at the Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound.
2025 charitable donations totaled $161 to Trap Neuter Release (TNR) program of Licking County, $161 to the food pantry network of Licking County and $100 to Dillon State Park.
We will be recycling items for Friends of Dillon State Park. Please bring the following items to the monthly meeting: grocery bags, bread bags, bubble wrap, dry cleaner bags, newspaper sleeves, ice bags, plastic and other recloseable food storage bags, water bottle case overwrap, salt bags, plastic wrap/stretch film, wood pellet bags and produce bags. These items are used to make the plastic benches throughout the park.
Please send healing thoughts and prayers to Bill Jackson as he recovers from surgery. Looking forward to seeing him and everyone out on the trails again!
LOGAN
Spring has arrived, bringing longer days, warmer weather, and endless shedding. Logan County OHC members are embracing the change in season as we spend more daylight hours with our horses and create plans for the year ahead.
Our March meeting included a tour of Spurwood Farm to learn more about Standardbred foaling and breeding seasons. We
also sent representatives to the Central Region and State General Membership meetings where we learned of some exciting updates for 2026.
Our first club ride of the season will be at Buck Creek State Park on April 18, we look forward to hitting the trails together.
LORAIN
April showers bring May flowers. Speaking of buttercup, it was good to see Shaun and his family at the Valentines Day ride. Denise is back in the saddle in record time after her little incident and doing great. We had a good showing that day and some nice treats after. Vince came through with the hot coffee and we all surely appreciated that.
Thank you to our April sponsor Harrison Trailers. They have supported our club for many years and we can’t thank them enough. Don’t forget about the April Fools Ride on the 4th at Edison and North Chagrin Ride on the 24th. We also have a day trip to the Merry-Go-Round Museum in Sandusky on the 8th followed by the Equine Affaire that weekend. Membership meeting will be held on the 20th, 7 p.m. at the Wellington Reservation Visitor Center. I hope to see everyone there. May 1 we have an Amish Country Tour and May 3 our Pie and Derby Day ride at Carlisle. Bring your favorite pie and showoff them fancy Derby Hats.
As we get our trailers ready for the first campout weekend in May at Van Buren, I thought maybe we could talk about prep for the season. We had a tire blow out coming home from Tennessee last year and I was glad I was prepared. If you don’t have trailer insurance or roadside assistance, you need to have the right tools for the job. A steel trailer helper ramp and a battery impact gun will make quick work of a tire change. Maybe keep a small 12v compressor under the seat. Check all tire pressures and inspect tire wear. What I missed was the very inside of our tires were wore completely down, even though there was plenty of visible thread on the outsides. Don’t forget to check the pressure on that spare tire. Having three emergency triangles to set up or even some flares will help warn oncoming traffic to move over. I had Lara jump up and down waving her hands, which also works. Check battery water levels, fill with distilled water
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only, and power them full with a charger. Inspect plug, clean and apply Dielectric connector protector. Lastly, grease wheel bearings, goose neck and ball. If all else fails, phone a friend and someone from the club will be on the way to help. Hopefully one of these reminders helps everyone have a safe and fun camping season.
MADISON
Welcome to spring! At least I hope it is, finally, since we write at least a month ahead of publication. Hope is what I have right now, with a dollop of happiness for the occasionally sunny day. I hope we see each other out and about soon. Some members enjoyed our snowy days for a great ride, as evidenced by the attached photos. Vincent and his grandmother, Laura Glier, as well as Susan Day. Love the horse hats!
Madison County had our annual chili cook off at our February meeting, judged by Deer Creek Maintenance Manager Bob Kruse as well as Jennifer Pfauth. Winners this year were: first place, Lisa Reynolds; second place, Jean Kritner; third place, Lorna Kenyon. Fabulous prizes were left-over gifts/prizes from our Christmas party, which were greatly appreciated. Thanks to all who participated!
For our March 12 meeting, we will celebrate Pi Day, and we will have a pie potluck with both sweet and savory pies for all to enjoy. This is a new endeavor, so we will see photos next month. For our April meeting, Izzy Walker will do a presentation on endurance riding and competition. We look forward to learning about this interesting sport, from conditioning to the check-in points required.
At Deer Creek, we are moving forward with additional trail markings which are numbered posts that you will find on a map provided at the day parking and
horse camp. This should make it simple to see where you are as you ride, along with the existing, colored posts. We hope you find this helpful.
It is time to get ready for riding season, inspect your tack, truck and tires to be sure everything is safe and ready to go when our inevitable mud season is over. Safe rides lead to lots more fun. Happy trails!
~Lisa Reynolds
MEDINA
Another tidbit of our 40-year history, Medina was one of the first chapters in Northeast Ohio. “Help us make a dream…a reality. Our goal is to create an equestrian trail system through the magnificent Cuyahoga Valley National Park. By forming an Ohio Horseman’s Council chapter in our area, we will have the strength of the OHC to accomplish our goal.” George Windate 1986. And Medina chapter encouraged members from other counties to form their own chapters. Cuyahoga, Lorain, Wayne, Lake, and Summit are sister chapters that we are proud to call our close member friends.
A park volunteer open house event was held at the Happy Days Lodge in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park on February 28 to encourage people to join the various volunteer groups that
help out in the park, like Medina OHC. Beyond trail maintenance there is tree-planting, invasive plant removal and assistance on the scenic railroad that runs through the park. Raydeen Ryden and Rosemary Young took questions and lots of names (yeah we’re takin’ names here!). Many people recently retired are looking for constructive ways to make a difference. We are looking forward to having some new faces swinging a shovel or a weedwhacker in our work sessions. We might even get some new members!
Our first meeting of the Year of the Fire Horse was March 4 with pizza and planning. As part of our 40th anniversary highlights we chose one of our own to honor that night. Joyce Tretow has devoted countless hours promoting riding and representing OHC at every parade and park event. Many people have been treated to rides on her horses. She is a dedicated elf at the North Pole Christmas festivities in Peninsula, bringing smiles to children (and adults) with her minis and pups. We could never thank her enough, but showed our appreciation with a gift anyway. We are so lucky to have members like Joyce! Save the date, better yet, sign up! June 20 is our anniversary ride staged at the one and only Robinson Field. Join old friends and make some new ones. Enjoy coffee and pastry in the morning, ride our well-maintained trails and get back for a hearty meal. Besides the good food, there will be prizes and lots of other fun. The flyer is on our Facebook page (OHC Medina County Chapter Group), in our newsletter or by contacting Louise Harting at 440/263-9924 or Barb Vega at 330/461-8299. If you are a former member, we would love to see you! Are you ready to party like it’s 1986? Well hold on to your raspberry beret or cowboy hat and get ready for 21st century fun in a nostalgic venue. Remember Valley Tack? Remember all those hundreds (thousands) of dollars you spent there? Well, it’s now a great rustic banquet venue, lovingly renovated to host events of all kinds. Sorry, those incredible saddles you liked to go up to just to smell the leather are gone, but the site still has that old feel of comfort. We will be holding our 40th anniversary banquet there on November 7. So save the date! Plans are
underway and more information is coming. Spring means work sessions will be back! We will be working on specific projects instead of the usual scheduled sessions. Information will come in email blasts or contact Raydeen Ryden (raysden2@gmail.com or 334/663-7361) or Greg Monsanty (330/352- 5737 or (blackhorsebridge@aol.com). Come be a part of 40 years of great trails. Spring is coming (we promise!) down in the valley!
~Rosemary
MEIGS
The Meigs AEP Horse Camp is officially open as of April 1! We will be sponsoring a new Trail Miles Challenge this year. It runs from January 1 to October 31, 2026. Keep track of your miles and you can double any miles ridden at the Meigs AEP camp! Prizes will be buckles for first and second place and halters for third and fourth place. We are raising money to buy buckles for our fun show series this year. If you would like to donate, please contact Beka Setzer or Jocelyn Wilson at meigs@ohconline.com or see one of us at a meeting or fun show! The first fun show of the year is scheduled for May 17. Sign-ups start at 4 p.m. with the show starting at 5 p.m. Everyone is welcome to participate but for insurance purposes you must be a member of OHC. To qualify for year-end awards, you must be a Meigs OHC member or secondary member. You can join at the show!
Come see us at the Equine Affaire! Ohio Horseman’s Council will have a booth April 9-12. We would love to see you out on the trails!
The Meigs chapter meets each month on the third Tuesday (April 21) with the exception of December. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. at Fox’s Pizza Den
Buttercup, Denise, and Sasquach.
Vincent Glier and Susan Day.
Laura Lyle Glier
Melissa Angel and Cindy Baker-Blosser out on the trails
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in Pomeroy, Ohio. Visitors are welcome so please join us to learn more about the OHC and see how you can become a member.
~Jocelyn Wilson
PERRY
Don and Vicki Wagner were presented with a Certification of Appreciation and a check during our annual holiday party for their contributions to the trail development at the Appalachian Equine Center near McConnelsville. The duo, along with some assistance from Morgan County OHC and various other chapters, were instrumental in the re-opening of these nearly lost trails. We applaud them for their efforts not only here but throughout the state over the years.
Speaking of trails, Connie King reported on trail mileage for 2025. The club reported 6,403 miles for last year with Laura Owings coming in as our top rider with 1512 miles. Our saddle hours for 2025 totaled 988 with Lynda Klingler coming in first place with 864 hours. Thanks to everyone who turned in miles which in turn help keep our trails open.
The after Christmas party was a success, especially the food. The Year of the Horse theme was carried out in bingo style and decorations. Door prizes
included candy, painted wooden horse heads and lighted mason jars that touted western artwork. Party goers hung around for quite some time after the musical chair gift exchange. The after party was as fun as the main party for those who stayed a little later but you know what they say, what happens at the party, stays at the party!
The chairs for the trail ride committee announced that club rides will take place the second Saturday of each month with the location to be determined by whomever steps up to the plate and volunteers to host a ride. The incentive to host a ride is you get to pick where the group rides and you are encouraged to incorporate something fun to do to make your ride the one that everyone talks about. How cool is that?
A clean up at Burr Oak will be taking place in March. Plans for the annual soup ride also were made with this year’s ride to tentatively take place at the Hocking Forest group camp. This will be a big change of venue over the last decade and one in which we hope brings more people to the event. Details to be determined as plans get approved.
Chapter president Carla Marshall and OHC Committee Chair for SE and SW Trails, Don Wagner, met with three employees of the Athens Unit of the Wayne National Forest in February. Many topics were discussed including trail cleanup and trail marking at Stone Church as well as possible future projects to benefit trail riders. Stay tuned for more information.
It has been reported that the frigid temps did not kill many of the ticks. Those who’ve had a chance to get back out in the woods are saying that those small pests are rampant so be tick aware.
As members prepare for better weather and riding opportunities, some have purchased new
equine partners. Congrats to Sheri Humphrey on her new rocky mountain mare and to Laura Owings for her 3-year-old youngster. Looking forward to seeing both on the trail this year. While waiting for better weather our club has been out in support of various functions hosted by area chapters including tack auctions hosted by Gallia, Knox and Meigs. Our ride schedule includes events hosted by Coshocton, Fairfield and Hocking chapters. That’s the true meaning of horsemen helping horsemen and we hope that our annual soup ride receives the same type of support.
Please join us for good food and trail development talks at our next meeting. We meet the second Tuesday of each month at The Pizza Place in New Lexington. Happy spring! ~Marianne
PREBLE
The Preble County Ohio Horseman’s Council trail season has officially kicked off! Now we just need the rain to subside so everyone can get out and enjoy our wonderful trails.
We do have a few changes for this season: Camping at the Hueston Woods Horseman Camp will be open until September for camping and riding. We have a new Spring Fling date in May— check out our Facebook page for more details. Unfortunately, we will be forced to cancel our State Ride this year due to the park being closed, but don’t worry— we’re planning something new!
To replace the State Ride, we will be hosting a Labor Day Extravaganza. We’ll be kicking things off with some new ideas, so be sure to follow us for more details as they’re announced.
Finally, Preble County would like to congratulate Arianna, our very own Ohio Horseman’s Council Scholarship winner and the 2025 High Point Junior Ambassador belt buckle winner. We are very proud of you! To have your chance to become the 2026 Junior Ambassador please
reach out to Ohio Horseman’s Council for more information.
To become a Preble County OHC member please reach out via the website https://ohconline. com/chapter/preblecounty/.
STARK
As I write this, it is so nice to see the sun shining, giving us warmer weather and no snow. We held our first meeting for 2026 on February 23 and were able to make some plans for the year. Working on trails will begin in March to get them ready for riding time that will begin shortly afterwards. Always an exciting time.
Over Memorial weekend we are planning to camp at Fallon Park plus we have reserved the camping area at Mohican Memorial Forest for the weekend of June 5-7, which is one of our favorite places too.
This year one of our goals is to encourage more members to keep track of the miles they ride and to report them at the end of the year.
Julie Croston is working on the parade schedule that she started last year and was a big hit for many. She has been asked again to have a group ride in the Hall of Fame Parade that is held towards the end of July or first of August each year. Our chapter needs to provide insurance so it is opened to any OHC member. If you are interested, the requirements are you must have ridden in other parades to get your horse used to the excitement plus wear a helmet. Julie can be reached at jcroston1231@gmail.com.
Enjoy our the trails and your equine!
~Jo Ellen
SUMMIT
Just in case you missed this last month, we are reposting the 2026 camping schedule shown below. This is the latest news from our Camping and Trail Riding Committee’s Facebook Post:
“This 2026 season we thought it would be fun to experience Ohio’s bridle trails by visiting our old favorites mixed in with ‘new to us’ Ohio parks. Many of our camping trips combine two or more parks so you can join us for all or part of the trip. Additionally, Most are scheduled mid-week so it’s easy to book a site last minute. We’ll get details out soon but as for now you can start saving dates.”
Kevin Sheppard and Cowboy
Jennifer Smathers and Poco
Don and Vicki Wagner receive Certificate of Appreciation.
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APRIL: TBA Oak Openings, as soon as the weather allows. Van Buren (two nights)
MAY 18-25: Sycamore State Park
MAY 20-23: East Fork State Park
MAY 23-25: Paint Creek State Park
JUNE 9-12: Fallon Park
JUNE 10-12: Blue Rock
JUNE 27: Murder Mystery, Richfield Heritage Preserve
JULY 2-5: Mohican Regional Ride (Wayne County)
JULY 14-17: Jefferson Lake
AUG. 11-14: Two Mile, Franklin, Pa.
AUG. 15-17: Camp Tuscazoar
AUG. 18-20: Beaver Creek
AUG. 20-21: West Branch
SEPT. 2-7: Pike Lake, Scioto State Ride, Scioto State Park
OCT. 5-9: Salt Fork and Barkcamp
OCT. 20-22: Alum Creek
So if you are inclined to day dream about the season ahead, mark your calendars now with the details above so you won’t miss an opportunity to make 2026 the year to remember. We hope to see many of you at this year’s Equine Affaire or out on the trails. We resumed our regular monthly meetings in March. Be sure to check Facebook for locations, times and dates as they vary due to location availability and weather.
~Joann Ulichney
TUSCARAWAS
Tuscarawas County OHC enjoyed a magnificent spread and a joyous evening of comradery at JT Bourbon’s Steak House on the first Saturday of January.
We were honored with several new members’ participation and a couple friends who we were hoping would join the OHC sometime in the near future. Believe me, we are really a fun group of people. With numerous aspects of horse experience and trail riding skills. Camping and amazing campfire chefs, ranking second to our true purpose. The diversity of our horse and riders only fuels the conversations in the glow from the campfire.
Annually we share an exciting a vocally stimulating discussion relating to trail rides we have every intention to attend. The written schedule developed is a reasonable guide, a star to wish upon, a goal, which often becomes a ‘fallen star’, when alterations are made to the prepared schedule. We are a spontaneous group and really view the rides as a horse experience. We want to ride, first and foremost. Inevitably, should a change occur, most take it in stride and proceed. Information has been exchanged pertaining to details of in or out of state trail rides and camping and stall arrangements. We analyze the facilities, as well as the quality of scenery and challenges of the trails. Join us for an experimental dinner meeting. Your opinions and thoughts are important to us. Your horse history is always a method to encourage conversation, laughter and friendship! You may find our club is just what is missing in your world. The enthusiasm of horse people is a rare wonder. Monthly dinner meetings are the second Monday at 7 p.m., are often held at different locations.
We welcome your attendance.
~Holly Waldenmyer
WARREN
My apologies for the lack of an article last month. Time just got away from me, despite Corral editor Kirstie sending her timely reminder. So this month I’ll include photos from the membership appreciation dinner in January that I was supposed to include last month.
Not much else has happened, except of course for gearing up for the Great Tack Exchange. Any of you who didn’t come by, or especially those who didn’t volunteer, please consider it next year. Even if you don’t really need to shop, it’s always fun to catch up with people when we’ve been buried in snow or flooded
with rain (or sometimes both!). And since it’s our fundraiser to raise money for the Caesar Creek horse trails, it’s a great way to give back.
The Over the Hill Gang hasn’t had much luck so far this year. We managed to get in our first scheduled work day, though mostly in the camp as the trails were a bit wet so we only got Moonlight and Rosebriar done. The second scheduled day didn’t happen due to cold, the third due to snow, and the next two due to mud. Only time will tell about the next few.
This will be my last time writing for you. At the last meeting, I apologized for missing the last article. Kathleen Girgis teasingly said “You’re fired, to which I responded “No such luck” or something similar. Then a couple days later, she asked if I wanted her to take over the job. I told her I’d be delighted. I’ve enjoyed doing it, but I think it’s always good to have a different perspective. So I’ll pass the reins to her, and let her introduce herself next month. I imagine she’ll have news from the GTE and I’ll try to help supply her with the news and photos as I can. I know she’ll appreciate anyone else doing the same.
Stay warm, cool, dry or whatever is appropriate by the time you get this!
~Mickie
WASHINGTON
Hello horse people, welcome to riding season! In Washington County we are excited our
Kinderhook Trail in Wayne National Forest is open again. We are in the process and hope to finish our major revamping of the trails very soon. All new signs, new mounting block at trail head and picnic area, fire rings, new tables, trails fixed in the major muddy spots were all on the agenda and if not finished will be soon! We have renamed some of our trails as well so make sure to take a picture of the map at the trailhead kiosk before you head out so you know just where you are. A new addition to the system is a letter designation at each trail junction. It is our hope this will make finding your place much easier and where to go next and how far that will be. The Kinderhook trail system is really two parts. The Cemetery and Ravine trail comprise what was the old short loop. That area contains three other trails; Paw Paw, Campfire and council, that we call the ‘in the park’ trails. Any combination of those trails will be a nice day ride. From Cemetery to Kinderhook ridge, to Butler to Renolds run it is another much longer loop. If you follow the entire loop you will cover about 26 miles. We invite you to come and ride, if you let us know you are coming, we will try to join you on the trail or at least meet you and give you the full lay of the land. It is our goal to have all of these miles open and in good shape by the end of April; it is a big job. It needs to be mentioned this is only possible because of the OHC grants. Washington County got a lot of grants this year for one reason; we applied. All of the clubs that applied got what they asked for, then we asked for and got what was left. If you want to improve your trails, and are willing to do the work, apply!
We are fortunate that Kinderhook is an equine trail only. Hikers can use it as well. We do not have any other trails in our vicinity so we do not conflict with mountain bikes or ATV’s. However, each meeting we have with Wayne, it is apparent there is a lot of competition for space in other parts of the forest. The horses, bikers, and motorized riders are very protective of their trails, for good reason. And since they are late coming to the dinner they would like what we have already built. In our campgrounds, we are fighting for our spots, feeling pressure from others wanting what has been ours for a long time. If you are in one of those
Water + Sun = Fun
Two miles = Smiles
Warren County OHC
County Lines
spots with overlapping trails, and user groups, please be respectful of the boundaries. We used to rule the woods, no longer! If we are disrespectful to the other groups we will get what we deserve and lose our trails and campgrounds. Do not be part of the problem, stay on horse trails and keep others there too! We all have to work together to build, maintain and preserve our trails. Be respectful of them. Stay off if it is too muddy, help trim where you can, join in with the ‘Horsemen Helping Horsemen’ motto!
We had a very interesting guest speaker at our March meeting named Roger Crowley. Mr. Crowley spoke about his business career starting out as a gun case maker and how it led him to meeting hundreds of the western stars we have watched through the years in movies and TV series. As well as having some rolls in the movies himself. He met and became friends with the actor’s stunt doubles as well as the actors and was on set for several movies being filmed on locations out west as well as overseas. He has written books and published his own magazine over the years. He owns and operates the Old West Shop in Vienna, WV. The photo album he brought to our meeting had lots of famous western stars he got to know over the years and pictures of him on sets of movies
we have all watched many times over the years. Mr. Crowley was a very engaging and interesting speaker. We were honored to have him meet with us and share his memories. Zayden Sandy one of our Jr. Ambassadors requested an interview and autograph from him.
See you on the trail!
~Rita V. Schultheis
WAYNE
While it isn’t quite California Dreaming, it is time to start seriously thinking about spring riding in Ohio. We held our trail planning meeting in February, which was well attended by both primary and secondary members. We have something on the calendar for most weekends this summer and are always ready for an impromptu ride or camp out. All you need to do is join as a primary or secondary member to get access to our Facebook page and then throw an invite or suggestion out and you will find plenty of like-minded riders.
Not one to waste any opportunity to ride, our junior ambassador, Denver cleaned up at YEDA this past month. She is working hard to take her riding to the next level, and we are very proud of her accomplishments. At our ride planning meeting we honored Jody Shaw for her service as treasurer. Denver’s grandmother and a member of our club, Charlene Scharr painted a beautiful wood plaque featuring head shots of Jody’s three horses.
We were pleased to partner with the Equine Club at ATI, OSU Wooster, for their Equine Workshop event. It was a clinic and informational event. We had a table with lots of information about OHC. It was well attended despite the foggy weather and many people expressed interest in joining our chapter. Thank you to our officers for setting up and manning the table and to Shayla Hysell, President of the Equine Club for inviting us to participate. Trail work has begun in earnest. Thank you to Dave and Marline Smalley, Ernie Kauffman, Kim Scarborough and her grandson Jett, Martha Parrott and Tom and Sharon Bahl for all the work they did at Malabar. They cleared 24 trees off the trail the last weekend in February. This hard winter was pretty damaging to the trails and with Mohican closed until April 1, Malabar will get a lot
of use as the weather improves. Most of this work is done on an ad hoc basis so if you live close and can jump in occasionally to help, let Dave and Marline know you are available. Many hands make light work.
It will be warm enough to ride on at least the Metroparks trails soon, so get that tack cleaned up, your camping sites reserved and your horses legged up! Hope to see you on the trails soon.
~Susan Baker
WOOD
April showers bring…the ‘official’ start of horse camping season! Members from the Wood County OHC chapter are eagerly looking forward to our first scheduled trip of the 2026 season. Since April temperatures can be fickle, we have chosen a private campground that has electricity available, along with trails that are a bit more forgiving and less strenuous for our first outing. As mentioned in previous articles, we’re headed to Farmlane Equestrian and Family Campground in Grass Lake, Mich., which is adjacent to the beautiful grounds of Waterloo State Park. This ‘first trip of 2026’ is scheduled for April 2426, with some members choosing to go up on the 22nd or 23rd to take advantage of the full week. As always, we hope anyone who may be interested will come and join us!
In March, Wood County members celebrated accomplishments from 2025 at our monthly meeting.
Trail miles and work hours were feted, and appropriate awards were distributed in recognition. Receiving mileage awards were: first place Dawn Gomez with 566 miles, second place Jo Saam 479 miles, third place Matt Saam 457 miles, fourth place Elaine Bennett 396 miles, fifth place Barb Oberhaus 338 miles, sixth place Deta Miller 265 miles, seventh place Deb McDonald 262 miles, eighth place Juliann Flage 257 miles, ninth place Jim Spero 240 miles, and tenth place Clara Pargeon 235 miles. Total miles ridden (as reported) by Wood County members were 5,822! There were 25 members who reported mileage. Our top three favorite trail locations were Van Buren (2974), Oak Openings (662) and Waterloo, Mich. (473).
In addition to all those trail miles ridden, Wood County OHC chapter members contributed a whopping 618 reported hours of labor at Van Buren State Park. Conservative estimates show this labor saved the state up to $104,918! And if you haven’t ridden at our ‘home park’ of Van Buren State Park lately, or at all, you really need to come and check out all of the improvements that we have made. Those labor hours really show in trails that are incredibly well taken care of and cleared. And the obstacle course is a fun challenge for you and your horse too.
As the weather gets warmer, we hope that you can see past all the horsehair and enjoy some sunshine. If you look close enough, there might even be some green sprouting up here and there. Be sure to get some stretching exercises in for you, and your horse and get out there and remember again why you did all those chores this past winter when you couldn’t feel your fingers, nose or toes.
If you would like to get to know members of Wood County OHC, we would enjoy meeting you at our monthly meetings; the first Tuesday of every month at Mi Tequila’s, Fostoria, Ohio, at 6:30 p.m. This would be an excellent opportunity to get connected! Wood County OHC sends our hopes for a safe and enjoyable riding season. We also wish you plentiful jellybeans and chocolate in your Easter baskets!
Stay sunny side up in the saddle and take advantage of every opportunity to spend with your friends, both four and two legged.
