麻豆社国产rider Alysha Russell walked away from the 麻豆社国产Valley Equestrian Association (SVEA) season opener show Sunday (May 16) with a bunch of prizes and more ribbons than she could hold.
Thirteen-year-old Russell competed in nine riding categories earning herself - and her horse Wind Wauk Her - seven first place ribbons.
"It feels great," said the Grade 8 Don Ross Secondary student, who calls her horse Breezie.
"I never expected I would win [the open show hack] class because that's not really the type of horse Breezie is."
Alysha's parents Doanne and Brian said Alysha spends 20 hours a week training with Breezie.
"I am so proud of her because she works hard," said Doanne.
Lots of training and teamwork seemed to be a key to success at the show.
Plenty of Sea to Sky Corridor equestrians trotted their way into town for the first SVEA show of the season.
Approximately 35 riders competed before judges and spectators at the one-day show on the Loggers Lane equestrian grounds.
SVEA event co-ordinator Kristy Pakstas said the show went really well.
"It was my first one in 麻豆社国产but from what everyone was telling me, the attendance was great. There were lots more people there and everyone was really happy we added the dressage component - which in turn attracted a lot more riders to the area."
Pakstas said the participants seemed quite happy to receive so many horse related prizes.
"I think they were really surprised to get so much stuff."
Whistler rider Garnet Shuker put in a team effort with his horse Tully to win a few ribbons including a first place finish in the test of choice walk/trot category.
"Me and my horse worked together as a great friend team," said Shuker, who has only been riding for two years.
In the future, Pakstas said she hopes to shorten the time in between tests and increase the jump heights on a few of the tests.
Anyone interested in volunteering with the SVEA, buying ad space in the show programs or donating prizes can contact Pakstas at 778-888-3744 or via email at [email protected].
