Classes are arranged by age and ability. The junior classes are generally for kids ages 8-12. (Photo submitted)
WESTFIELD – The Westfield Riding Club (WRC) hosts its first show of the season on Sunday, June 1 beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the club grounds located at 29 Fowler Road in Westfield. More than 55 riders are pre-registered for Sunday’s event and spectators are welcome.
WRC is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The club is a non-profit organization founded on the eve of World War II in 1939 by a group of horse enthusiasts whose intent was “fostering interest in the use, care, breeding and protection of horses.”
“WRC’s active presence today is no small feat considering how riding and the world has changed since the club was founded. Even though today’s families face a lot of constraints on their time and resources, our members continue to make membership and participation in WRC a priority,” said club president Sarah Bonini. “We think the real winners are, of course, the horses who make our lives so much happier and interesting.”
In honor of its Diamond Anniversary, the show will feature new classes and prizes for horses and riders of all ages and disciplines including the return of the Founder’s Day Pleasure Classic, a Pro-Am Challenge, Jackpot Showmanship & Jackpot Versatility Classic, “Bareback Eq” Challenge and the Wildfire Farm Equine Rescue Challenge. Three perpetual trophies will be awarded.
Mayor Daniel M. Knapik will be on hand Sunday to present members with a citation recognizing the club’s 75th anniversary.
The club organizes educational activities, programs, shows, trail rides, and other events to enhance the understanding of correct horse management and riding, as well as appreciation of the horse with particular emphasis on youth participation at all levels.
“We believe that by offering an opportunity for devoted horse owners to come together to socialize and build their skills, we can develop a community with strong bonds that will allow us to help each other and our horses grow, learn and have fun doing it,” said Bonini.
Show photography and photo booth will be provided by Paige Cerulli and Stone Arbor Mobile Tack will provide onsite support. Rache’s Catering will be operating the cook shack.
To learn more about the WRC, www.westfieldridingclub.org or for latest news and information visit us on Facebook.
