Savvy Equestrian - Educational Horse Articles

This year, I had the one-in-a-lifetime experience of competing at the 2007 Pony Club Nationals on a fantastic team of wonderfully unique girls.

We all somehow knew each other, whether from scramble teams or inter-rally mingles throughout the years. Our team consisted of Kristen Wilkins and Emily Yslas from Rolling Rock Pony Club; Sydney Pinkerton and Mary Hooser (sm) from Bath; and me, Mary Wray, representing Brush Run.

We all equally divided the responsibilities for equipment kits, stall cards, and decor for our highly popular tack room. When we all arrived, everyone helped each other, and constantly offered their assistance. When all was finished and the horses were settled in; we had also impressed a few horse management judges with our rainbow colored tack room.

I love these girls so much, and they will always mean the world to me. Whether we were cleaning tack intensely from six o' clock in the morning till 1 o' clock, or taking muck bucket shifts, we all found time to joke around and enjoy the time we had together. Emily was by far the best official tack cleaning inspector, and the most fantastic team leader ever! Kristen was our spiritual leader and confidence builder. She would always find something positive or uplifting to help us feel better. Sydney was our powerhouse, she was always there to offer advice or get us pumped up. Each girl played a significant role in helping the team achieve so much at Nationals.

Even though receiving a second place medal and ribbon were rewarding, I will always remember the amazing amount of team spirit and support we received through out the competition. After every phase, we would all rush to greet and congratulate our teammates as soon as they left the arena. Many people approached me and said how wonderful it was to see a region so supportive of each other. Many others of our friends came from other disciplines to cheer us on as well, and we would make a point to cheer them on too.

Being part of such a wonderful region means so much to me, and I hope we all remember those who have worked night and day to make sure everything run so smoothly. A HUGE thanks to the amazing Robyn Fillman, who has done so much for the members of this region, and her legacy will live on.