Horsefeathers Therapeutic Riding 2015 Illinois Special Olympics

I've practiced very hard this year.

Special Olympics is almost here.

I've got my riding clothes and gear.

I'm so excited mommy dear.

Wheelchairs and walkers put aside,

Get on your horse, it's time to ride.

My tummy's doing flips inside

With nervousness I cannot hide.

My horse is wise, he seems to know,

The time has come for me to glow

I'm riding forward, here we go.

Will I do well? I just hope so.

Mommy watch me! Daddy too!

Look and see what I can do.

Oh my gosh I'm almost through.

Honey, we're so proud of you.

Up on my horse I have more height.

So many more things are in my sight.

I won a medal. I did it right!

I'm wearing it to bed tonight.

These bonds we make, no one can sever.

Until you've done this, you will never

See a more worthwhile endeavor.

A heartfelt good deed lasts forever.

Special Olympics is a yearly event made even more challenging with the involvement of a horse. We at Horsefeathers are proud and honored to serve as a bridge, bringing riders and horses together for an enriching weekend. We challenge our riders to set goals that can be met and achieved or exceeded, giving new hope to and elevating the spirit of our special needs friends and families.

Congratulations to all of our 2015 Special Olympic State of Illinois Equestrian Championship Riders. This year was the largest Horse Show in history, with 156 total riders. 17 Horsefeathers' riders competed in Showmanship and/or English Equitation. 7 gold medals, 4 silver, 2 bronze, 5 fourth place ribbons, and 2 fifth place ribbons were well earned. Gold medals were won by Quinley B., Carly D., Amber S., Mackenzie G., Katie G., and Charles W. Silver medals were won by Charles W., Jacob E., Aaron D., and Jordan P. Bronze medals were won by Hana G., and Nick K. 4th place ribbons were awarded to Stephanie P., Sahara T., Eion J., and Stacey K. 5th place ribbons were awarded to Rebecca M., and Samuel G.

Thanks to all the wonderful volunteers and horses who made this year a great success! Horsefeathers would especially like to thank the Weeden Family for their great kindness and generosity in trailering our horses. Ice, Apollo, Ernie, Red Rover, Chance, Scooby Doo and Captain thoroughly enjoyed their Olympic experience.

For further information about Horsefeathers, or to make a donation to a registered IRS 501 (c) (3) charitable organization, please see our website (www.horsefeatherscenter.org).