Story by Rita Thompson-Tinsley (All Photos by Horses with Heart)
The National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) Foundation presented their 2nd annual Heroes on Horses at Westworld in Scottsdale on March 7-8. Proudly in attendance were our veteran representatives from locally operated Horses with Heart therapeutic horsemanship, along with many of their truly dedicated and hardworking volunteers.
With the familiar sound of Alan Jackson performing the national anthem, a passion-filled plethora of American flags were held by volunteers. The Parade of Heroes led the way through the Westworld Equine Chronicle Arena, celebrating and honoring our nation’s finest veterans.
NSBA Foundation Director Lynn Campbell is passionate about her role with Heroes on Horses and has worked to coordinate the program in several other cities. As part of the NSBA Equestrians with Disabilities division, this program is a catalyst for recognition and gratitude to our military service men and women who ride and compete.
The Sun City Circuit NSBA Heroes on Horses is supported by the Bob and Ingrid Miller family of Mesa, who has graciously donated funds for a three-year commitment.
Although this was the first venture into competing on horseback for a few of our Heroes, they all did well and had a great time. The riders were coached by trainer Kim McElroy who shared her skills and knowledge without hesitation and Therapeutic
Riding Instructor Pam Berry trained also. It was, however, very challenging for them to find practice days when the weather would cooperate.
Of the veterans participating in the event, four equestrians represented Horses with Heart on horseback in the Western Pleasure competition: Kris Vollrath, Jackie Boyd, Pete Sanders, and Ron Bowen.
Horses with Heart was abundantly represented by volunteers who marched, held flags, and assisted in equestrian needs.
Marching Veterans: Jim Radley, Bill Arsenault, Margaret Killian, Sandy Meadowcroft, Frank Rochon.
Flag Bearers: Marcia Gagnon, Sherry Hoover, Bonnie Moreau, Kris Dockum, Lisa Lucidi, Trudy Chapman-Radley, Mary Smith, Jan Grise, Chelsea Barth, Anna Boyd.
Arena Assistance: Pam Berry, Horses with Heart Director Angelique LeVell.
Horse Care Crew: Marcia Gagnon, Bonnie Moreau, Lisa Lucidi, Pam Berry, Angelique LeVell, Kris Dockum, Sherry Hoover, Anna Boyd
Cheering Section: Heidi Harvey, Jill Underwood, Lynn Valenti, Teresa Rochon.
A final thought and appropriately delivered words by NSBA Foundation Director Lynn Campbell, summing up the Heroes on Horses: “What makes this event so inspiring is not necessarily the competition, it’s the comradery.”
Salute.
Hometown Heroes and Horses
~ Rita Thompson-Tinsley ~
