Rodeo weekend was a time for many equestrians to strut their stuff at the Estevan Exhibition Grounds, with the light horse show that took place on Sept. 3. The show featured over 50 riders from across southern Saskatchewan and parts of Manitoba, demonstrating their proficiency with horses in a number of assorted riding categories. Riders participated in a variety of classes including showmanship, novice and open English and Western pleasure events, equitation, driving and gymkhana.
“I always see improvement in the riders. Every time a child or adult gets on a horse, they learn things,” said event secretary Linda Molyneaux. “Some of the locals showed improvement this year, like Brenda Noble, a longtime rider who was on a new horse. We also have a number of children who participate. It’s fun to watch them grow as riders and develop their skills.”
Participants guided their horses around obstacles, riding in patterns and through set courses. Many events entailed riding over, around and through some obstacles. Feats ranged from the dynamic, with horses jumping over poles or maneuvering around barrels, to more nuanced, with participants closing gates and carefully navigating complex courses on horseback.
“Our local riders did pretty well in some of their classes. Not first place, necessarily, but they’re improving, and it also depends on the competition, what the judges notice and how the horse is reacting every day,” said Molyneaux. “We had one adult competitor who was taking a long time, because her horse was acting up, so she removed it from the classes, and said ‘He doesn’t want to do this today.’”
In the high point awards for seniors 18 years and older, Theresa Herbert of Moosomin took first place, and Tracy Olson of Maryfield, Sask. earned second place.
In the junior A division for youth 15-17 years old, Tory Frankl of Regina got first place, while second place went to Sarah Moore of Estevan.
In the junior B division for youth 12-14, first place went to Shayla Moore of Weyburn, while Holly Carter of Regina took second place.
Abby Goddard of Swift Current placed first in the junior C division for youth aged 11 years and older, while Sheradyn Griffith of Maryfield took second place.
