Lakota’s Arab side speaks to variety while her quarter-horse heart is enduring and strong. Knowing this, they edged toward the idea of endurance with an eye on obstacles that are so commonplace in life. While searching for suitable events in University Google, Cordula stumbled upon ACTHA and knew that would be her next project. And it would not just be for the two of them given that ACTHA offers opportunities to Ride for a Cause, to host events and raise money for a charity of choice while promoting the charity’s name and having fun. Suffice it to say, Cordula and her Pegasus had hit their jackpot. It was their chance to pay it forward to Strongwater Farm, where the central concept of obstacles is so relevant to their therapeutic clients. And really all journeys come with them.
Cordula hosted her first ride in November 2013 on the scenic 450 acres of Strongwater Park. This picturesque property that is also home to Strongwater Farm not only offers miles of trails but multiple parking areas, two large show rings with competition quality footing and warm up areas. Thanks to the equestrian community, Strongwater Park is becoming a suitable venue for national- level equestrian competitions for riders of all abilities. Hosting two fun themed events a year, one in the spring and one in the fall, Cordula’s CTC’s attract trail riders of all ages and levels from as far away as Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire. With local enterprises stepping in to offer prizes the feeling of community
Cordula has had a very positive experience working with ACTHA to benefit her chosen charity, Strongwater Farm. In her own words: “ACTHA guides a ride host through the ride setup, including a timeline of when certain tasks need to be completed, and provides a Facebook forum for ride hosts to discuss their ideas. They offer direct contacts with sponsors who lend their products and name to an event, along with marketing tutorials, template fliers and contact leads. ACTHA rocks and has a super model established to follow and raise funds for a center of your choice, all done in awareness. It is very inspiring”.
spirit and generosity resounds, making the events not only welcoming and enjoyable but events to save the date for.
While Cordula cannot participate in her own rides, Lakota, her horse, does. With riders carefully appointed, Lakota does her best for them. On the last ride, she brought in the blue without horse or rider knowing or practicing the obstacles in advance. It was heart-warming for Cordula. Not wanting to miss out on all the fun, Cordula recently had the opportunity to compete in her first ACTHA ride as a competitor with Lakota in Loudon, N.H. And once again, Lakota’s affinity for CTC’s shined brightly as she and Cordula earned a blue ribbon in the competitive pleasure division.
RIDE HOST SPOTLIGHT
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