RIDE HOST ACCOLADES
ACTHA Monthly | 12
As a ride host, to encourage the participation of gaited
horse riders in Texas, Val put together a high point series
with special prizes for the highest placing gaited horse.
The beautiful camp chairs were, at the end of the series
awarded to Joe Petronella on his lovely Mountain
Horse.
When selecting judges for the events Val hosts,
she makes certain that she selects people
who are well versed in horsemanship in all
breeds, including gaited. She also makes
sure to cover what to look for when she
does her judges’ briefings. After all, to
be an expert in gaited horses requires
years, if not a lifetime, of study but, if
the person is knowledgeable in
horsemanship and understands foot fall,
timing, balance and impulsion, they can
judge any breed. Val also select judges
who have trail riding experience so
that they understand the challenges
that can be encountered on the
trail and not just in the show
pen.
RIDE HOST SPOTLIGHT
Val Delana with her TWH gelding, Duster