Young riders experience Horsmanship Challenge

Local equestrians have been horsing around in mule country thanks to the Wahkiakum County Fair Board and the Island Riders 4-H Club.

Grandparents, grandchildren and a plethora of people in between donned cowboy hats and belt buckles last Saturday to take part in the second Horsemanship Challenge of the summer. Participants enjoyed two speed events, two trail events and two ranch events.

A smiling Landon Luce said, “This is my first year and I love it!”

The third grade student at JA Wendt Elementary, clad in a green plaid shirt and a helmet for safety, was just one of several to compete for a daily high point award. The finals, held August 18, will determine the winner of the series overall high point winners in different 4H age groups. Winners will take home coveted saddles donated by Shawn and Tina Merz, Bill and Debby Merz, and Jason and Christy Delamarter. L & J Feed Store sponsored other event prizes.

For many of the participants riding horseback is more than recreational; it is a tradition and a lifestyle. But at the challenge and through the Island Riders 4H Club, families are sharing their love of riding with children who do not yet have horses of their own.

“Shawn and Tina (Merz) let Anna ride their horses Prince and Montana. She had a wonderful time and is anxiously awaiting the challenge in August as well as signing up for 4H Horse,” said Susan Kuhn whose daughter Anna, 13, participated in Saturday’s event, herding young calves and galloping around barrels “I am thankful for the wonderful work they have done with the Horsemanship Challenge We really appreciate having the Merz family here in Wahkiakum County.”

“It’s nice to see smiles on kids riding horses,” said a humble Tina Merz who was the adult champion at the June 16 event.

Also taking top honors that day was junior champion Jansi Merz, intermediate champion Levi Delamarter, and senior champion Cody Vik. “It was a great day,” recalled Merz.

Horsemanship challenge winners on July 14 included junior champion Landon Luce, intermediate champion Levi Delamarter, senior champion Mercedes and adult champion Ashlee Olsen. “Everyone did a wonderful job,” Merz said.

“We are helping to raise money for our wonderful Wahkiakum County Fair,” explained Merz. Proceeds from the event are also meant to benefit Island Riders 4H club. “We are always looking for area businesses to join the fun. If people are interested in a little bit of friendly completion and a chance to advertise in the arena on the last day of the fair, I hope they’ll contact us.” The final challenge in the series will be held August 18 at the Wahkiakum County Fairgrounds.