I grew up in Burlington, VT and the extent of my horseback riding was rocking horse on the playground at South Park (now Callahan Park).  The posse of kids that I grew up with rode bicycles, not 1,200 pound animals, so this photography event was a new experience for me.   There are some things that are common to any event when children compete, and one is the presence of supportive parents.  It was a bright, muddy and beautiful day, contrary to the crazy (tornado warning) storm we had the night before.  The equestrians were gathering at the ring to compete and the parents were doting on both the horses and the riders.  They were so friendly and helpful in educating me what to expect.  I was struck by the maturity and cordiality of the young men and women. I was also moved by the unspoken level of trust between the animal and rider, and the beauty of this sport.  While I have rarely been around horses, everyone made it easy for me to feel comfortable and even entertained.  One horse would smile on demand.  Too funny!!  

Overall, it was great to meet new people and to capture competition moments for this horse loving community.  Thank you, Steeple Ridge Farm and Ashley Meacham for providing me with this wonderful experience!  I look forward to more shows in the future.