The morning was beautiful. Volunteers were buzzing around the barn, braiding the horses’ manes and tails with ribbons and giving them glitter hearts on their hips. The finishing touches were being put on the arena and observation room, Hopalong Cassidy had arrived,things were just falling into place and the weather! Put simply, it was heaven-sent.
The Mane Event was off to a great start! As the morning went on, the horses were tacked and warmed up in the arena as students and their families were filing in and the “parking lot” pasture was filling up. It was going to be a magical day! As the show began, Agape’s executive director, Amanda, and founder, Cheryl welcomed guests and prayed a blessing over the day. The show ran without a hitch, and smiles were abundant around the barn.
The Mane Event was a chance for our riders to showcase their skills for their family and friends. Those not participating in the show could enjoy meeting our very own Hopalong Cassidy, dress-up our miniature horses, play ring toss with our “cows” and peruse Agape apparel available for purchase. Awards ceremonies were held right after each class in our peaceful amphitheater, where each student received a ribbon.
Kim Dodson’s perspective of the day was twofold. Not only did she have children participating in the show, but she also donated food and volunteered as a horse leader.
“My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the 1st Annual Mane Event. The whole event was thoroughly planned and it showed in every aspect of the day.,” Kim said. “Our kids had a great time. The appreciation for all the hard work that each member of the staff put into this event showed on all the children’s faces throughout the day.”
We are so grateful for all of the time our volunteers put in, the preparation and effort that our staff contributed, and for the families and friends who came out to support and cheer on their favorite riders. None of this would have been possible without everyone rallying together, and we are continuously humbled by the outpouring of love and support that is supplied to us.
We would like to thank Hoosier Park Racing & Casino for sponsoring The Mane Event, and Cowpokes for donating the amazing Mane Event t-shirts.
Take a peek at more photos from the show here.
Want to be a part of this magic? We’re always looking for new volunteers to help in our classes each week! If you’re interested, head on over to our website here and fill out a volunteer application. Don’t have the time to commit each week, but want to help somehow? One of our largest annual fundraising events, Par for the Horse, is coming up and there are many ways you can help. Check them out on the event site here. Get plugged in with us and make an impact in your community!