Region 5 benefit Ride

Martin Dawson competed on his Arab gelding, Beau, in the one-day novice division, and Robin South competed on her Arab mare, Gu, in the two-day novice division. Martin and Beau took second place in their division. Congratulations, guys! Robin and Gu had some equipment issues, and Robin pulled Gu from the competition near the end of the second day. Though Gu held up well, some things just aren’t worth putting your horse through! They’ll try again at the Troy ride.

Martin and Robin were supported in camp by Tessa South, Chad Bowman and Amy Farley. These guys took great care of our competitors and did some pleasure riding of their own. The competitors couldn’t make it without this support and were very grateful.

The high point of this ride for both the competitors and the non-competitors was getting to cross the river. We’re not sure the horses thought all that much of the experience, but they were troopers and handled this very daunting obstacle with wonderful grace.

NATRC Ride, Dawsonville, GA

Date: 09/02/06

Chad’s gotten really good and getting camp set up in no time flat!

Robin & Tessa playing around with their ponies on Friday evening

Such dignified folk...

Robin and Martin wave from the other side of the river during Saturday’s ride.

...they were two silly peas in a pod and got along famously!

Chad finally gets to be in a pic...

Robin and Martin coming back into camp on Saturday after a grueling 23 miles

Martin and Beau waiting in line for their vet out on Saturday

Beau gets his once over from the vet.

After 23 miles, Beau wasn’t all that excited about his mandatory trot-out.

The Arntsons, long-time friends of Robin and Tessa who live in Atlanta, visited for dinner

Aidan Arntson, three years old, gets his first ride on a horse, courtesy of Sylvia.

Martin gives the kids a different—and much funnier—sort of ride.

Sylvia also treated Skylar Arntson to a ride. Skylar has decided she should just move in with the Souths!

Amy and Diamond playing around before dinner on Saturday

Sylvia shows her opinion of the whole thing—”Thpthpthpthp!” ...

Amy and Tessa engage in a giggle fest

...but Tessa makes it up to her with a hug

She also gets in good with Beau.