The Acreage Landowners’ Association and Western Equestrian Shows & Trails (WEST), an ALA sub-committee, held its first equestrian event on Saturday, Aug. 15 at the Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park, with several dozen attendees and horses taking advantage of low-cost veterinary services and clinics.
“We had a nice turnout for it being our initial clinic and obtained many memberships,” ALA President Bob Morgan said.
The event followed a long hiatus of activities at the park, which was noticed by many. “Several positive comments were made about the park being back in business,” Morgan said.
Micro-chipping, Coggins and other vaccine services were provided by Palm Beach Equine Clinic. Kim Emmons of Palm Beach Equine Clinic, clinic director for WEST, gave instruction on hurricane preparedness. Several vendors attended, including tack and hay purveyors and food trucks.
“We had a couple of dozen people with horses and a pony,” said WEST President Dixie Thiery, also an ALA board member. “They could get discounted vaccines. We’re going to do clinics throughout the year. This was our first one. We have another one scheduled for Sept. 19, which will be basic first-aid.”
Most of the horses were trucked in, but there was plenty of parking, and the event was well organized.
“Indian Trail did a great job of cleaning up the park,” Thiery said. “They pressure washed everything.”
At least a dozen horses were there, as well as a group of mini horses brought in by a local resident who breeds them. “They were adorable,” Thiery said. “People don’t ride them, but they show them.”
WEST’s next event will be the beginning of the Buckle Barrel Series on Sept. 6. Cowboy Church will begin at 8:30 a.m. with Pastor Joseph DiBari, and the barrel event will begin at 9 a.m. It will continue the first Sunday of every month through next May.
The ALA and WEST are looking for volunteers and corporate sponsors. Banners can be placed on arena fencing and barrels. Call Thiery at (561) 644-5410 or Morgan at (305) 975-4392 for more information or to become a member. Find the group on Facebook @westernequestrianshowsNtrails for future events and updates.
Morgan thanked ITID for use of the park and hospitality of the board members and employees. All events will be held at the Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park, located at 14780 Hamlin Blvd. in The Acreage, weather permitting.
