| Brannon Barnsters Youth Club |
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| Some of the youngest of the Brannon Barnsters participated Sunday July 21st, 2007 in the Lexington Bluegrass Academy Show held at Masterson Station. Everyone received blue ribbons for riding. Pictured top to bottom clockwise: Jayna and Fancy, Kelsey and Strawberry Heather, Josh and Liz with Fancy, Alexandra and Strawberry. |
| September 9, 2007: The Brannon Barnsters took a field trip to The Kentucky Horse Park, where they toured the American Saddlebred Museum, had a picnic during the meeting, and watched the Parade of Breeds. As seen in the photos, every participant wanted to sit atop the lovely wooden ASB rocking horses and pretend to show. |
| The October 2008 Barnsters horse games day was a tremendous success. So many youngsters showed up to learn and practice skills to improve their balance, coordination, and guiding while riding. The proceeds go to vet bills for Poker's leg growth (Poker is an ASB rescue Nancy adopted three years ago). Games included those taught at Horses and Hot Chocolate, the winter games held at the Kentucky Horse Park. In addition, club members and students practiced two-point at the trot over ground poles. Many thanks to Kelsea Rookard for organizing the event and to Deb Rateri, the club sponsor, for providing refreshments and awards. Of course, we must thank the equine ambassadors of the day: Lucky, Meredith's Horse, Watcheyes, Trixie, Bacardi, and Fancy. |
| February, 2008: Pictures above and to the right feature the field trip in which the Brannon Barnsters participated during the ASHA Youth Conference. They saw not only American Saddlebreds, but Friesians as well. Thanks to Deb Rateri for chaperoning the day for the participants. |
| The Barnsters hold monthly meetings intended to educate and encourage learners about all things equine. Deb Rateri is the sponsor, and can be reached at debrateri@aol.com with any questions. Membership is free, and all riders, whether showing or not, are encouraged to participate. We usually have demonstrations, crafts, and snacks at every meeting. Often, some form of riding is incorporated as well. |
| October 5th, 2008 - The Brannon Barnsters traveled to Taylorsville Lake for a two hour trail ride. The opportunity provided club members training in seat and balance as they traversed some moderately steep inclines/declines. The day was clear and breezy. Riders and horses had a good time. |
| On September 30th, 2008, the Barnsters visited Old Friends Farm to learn about the thoroughbred retirement industry. Highlights included meeting record holders in turf racing, as well as meeting one of the stars of Seabiscuit (see him at left attempting to eat Nancy's hood). The girls also enjoyed hearing about the cute half minature stallion who demonstrated his soccer skills for his audience! |
