Gary and Carole Wilder, high school sweethearts of 50 years have hosted 36 ACTHA rides to date, with many more on the horizon.
By Judy Ellis and Becky Orahood
Between Gary's enthusiasm and Carole's organizational skills, they make a perfect team. Both also have a great sense of humor and care that each and every one of the riders has a great time. They go out of their way to create a social atmosphere so, as a result, have fostered a riding community of people who have become friends.
From a competitive stand point, efforts are always made to have well trained judges and helpers. Gary has recently started putting on affordable clinics with judges coaching participants on what they are looking for on each obstacle. This is a great way for horses and riders to improve their skills and fills the gap between the scores on the judges' sheet and the riders' concept of their actual performance. Arizona is very fortunate to have Gary and Carole who always put on quality rides.