FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Clouds of dust could be seen and sounds of neighing could be heard at the Fort Rucker Riding Stables Sept. 4.
The inaugural Happy Horses Fun Show allowed post residents and local community members a chance to visit the stables and participate in a variety of events, with or without horses.
"The whole event was meant to be something fun for everyone," Kathy Simmons, Fort Rucker Riding Stables business manager, said. "There were several new faces here, but we're hoping the word will get out about this first event and attract more people for the next one."
One new face at the stables was also celebrating her birthday. Samantha Payton, 4, daughter of Sheri and Master Sgt. Jeremy Payton, 164th Theater Aviation Operations Group, experienced riding and leading horses for the first time. Her mother said it was a rewarding experience for both of them.
"She was so excited the night before that she almost couldn't get to sleep," Sheri said. "This is a great event for the post and the community. It's giving us a chance to get to know the stables and other people in the area who have similar interests."
The Family event also attracted more experienced riders who were already familiar with the stables, but try to take every riding opportunity they can.
"We went to the last open horse show here and had a great time, so we all wanted to come back anytime something like this is happening," Sgt. 1st Class Scott Schiffer, C Company, 1st Battalion, 13th Aviation Regiment Combat Skills Training branch chief, said. "My (children) really practiced a lot for (this event). Riding is something we all enjoy as a Family."
Schiffer said his son, Madison, didn't enjoy being around horses until the Family found its newest addition, Bojangles.
"Originally, it was going to be my wife, Carie's, horse," Schiffer said. "The first time Madison rode him, it became his horse. They formed a really strong bond very quickly."
Having riding stables on post made some of the participants even more excited about taking part in Saturday's show.
"It's really great to be able to do something like this without having to drive so far," WO1 Ben Conner, B Company, 1st Battalion, 145th Aviation Regiment, said. "My wife, Laura, and I use to live in places where it would take at least 15 minutes or longer to get to a good riding place. Having a good place so close by has been a huge help."
Conner said he grew up around horses, but didn't get into riding until he met Laura.
"She was really into it and I decided to give it a chance and I wound up really enjoying it," he said. "We keep our horse, Diamond, here at the stables and try to get out here as often as possible."
Classes for the event ran throughout the day and included events for both riders and non-riders. Those without horses were still able to participate in events like dummy calf roping, stick horse jumping and stick horse racing.
Events for riders of all experience levels included a walk/trot race, obstacle race, barrels, leadline, bareback equitation and ball racing.
For more information about upcoming Riding Stables events, call 598-3384.
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