ManeGait Therapeutic Horsemanship Horse Show 2015

On Saturday, Oct. 17, ManeGait Therapeutic Horsemanship will host its 7th Annual Horse Show at its 14-acre location in McKinney, Texas. The ManeGait Horse Show provides 80 adults and children with disabilities the opportunity to showcase their equestrian skills and knowledge gained through weekly therapeutic horsemanship sessions. Riders strive for personal bests as they compete to win ribbons and trophies in a supportive environment focused on ability rather than disability.

“The ManeGait Horse Show is an extraordinary opportunity to witness the life-changing effects of therapeutic horsemanship on our riders,” said Tricia Nelson, ManeGait’s executive director. “The riders are the stars of the show, demonstrating not only their skills but also growth in their confidence, strength and independence.”

Therapeutic riding lessons focus on skill development and progression while improving the rider’s physical, cognitive, emotional and/or social skills. The goal of the instruction team, which includes certified therapeutic riding instructors and volunteer aids, is to help each rider achieve his or her full potential.

In addition to celebrating the riders, the ManeGait Horse Show recognizes the horses that are central to helping riders achieve progress. At this year’s event, the Carrot Award will be presented to the horse that helps the largest number of riders to achieve success during the show. In addition, a special ceremony will be held in honor of the retirement of Pinot, one of ManeGait’s longtime therapy horses.

The ManeGait Horse Show will be held on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3160 N. Custer in McKinney. Admission is free to the public. The community is invited to cheer on the riders, see first-hand the benefits of therapeutic horsemanship and learn about volunteer opportunities. For information, visit www.manegait.org or call Tricia Nelson at (469) 422-6734.