Corrales, NM: Ditch Pony Promenade 2007!

Horse-friendly Corrales, NM has just completed its 5th annual version of one of the events that makes Corrales such a great home for horses and horse-owners: the Ditch Pony Promenade!

Last June 20th, one hundred fifty three (153!) children showed up at the Top Form Arena in Corrales for what may be the biggest children's horse event in New Mexico. Sponsored by Dan's Boots and Saddles, this no-cost event is specifically for children, from toddlers to teens, and combines fun activities with serious classes promoting good horsemanship.

According to The Horsemens Voice, event organizers are pleased that the level of riding seems to get better every year. Other positive signs for the future that they notice is that there seem to be increasing numbers of older children coming in as novice riders, as was evidenced by more requests for lead line rides for older children. Melanie Scholer, who heads the event, noted these as "good signs for the horse industry."

ONe of the things that makes the Ditch Pony Promenade most picturesque for spectators is that it always features spectacular costumes, with chilren and their parents becoming highly creative with costuming. Examples included Lila Baca outfitted as Little Red Riding Hood while her horse played the "Big Bad Wolf," and two little girls dressed up as princesses from India riding the "Tiger" horse!

Unfortunately, the show had to be cut short, with classes closed down at 3:00 p.m. because of lightning. However, plans have already been made to complete the rest of the classes on August 29th at the Lefty Converse Memorial Senior Show, also at Top Form Arena in Corrales. Unlike the Ditch Pony Promenade, which is limited to children 18 and under, the Left Converse Show is for senior horses 15 and older and horse lovers of any age. So if you're free on August 29th, come out and check out our young equestrians, older horses, and horse enthusiasts of all ages at the Top Form Arena in Corrales, New Mexico!

For more information about New Mexico and horses, don't miss my website, www.LauraWarden.com ! If you're interested in buying or selling horse property, contact me any time: laura@laurawarden.com.