Saddle Club holds first meeting of 2026

Organizers of the Stratford and District Saddle Club gather for a photo at its first meeting. In front: Martin Switzer, Murray Schlotzhauer and Helen Thomson. In back: Todd Fawcett, Pearl Fawcett, Calvin Jacobs, Sarah Jacobs, Martin Ritsma, Mike Jacobs, Brianne Crawford and Bonnie Jacobs.

Members of the Stratford and District Saddle Club held their first organizational meeting of the year at the John Thomson Tack Shop on Vivian Line, near Stratford.

There was good discussion on the upcoming season that begins near the end of May, pertaining to judges and number of classes for young riders with their horses and ponies. The location will again be on the Schlotzhauer Riding Facility east of Stratford in North Easthope Township on Line 37.

They recognized and appreciated the work put in by father Murray and son Trevor Schlotzhauer, owners of the riding complex.

Points again will be tabulated as those who ride in all the shows and the higher the placing, the more points that individuals can accumulate.

At the riding club’s year end award’s banquet, those who participate are given trophies for their accomplishments, while the top points obtained by an individual will receive a large fancy cowboy belt buckle for their efforts.

Talk also took place on allowing English riders to compete and they would be happy to see more young riders wanting to bring their horses and ponies out for the summer of competition as a learning experience.

This year’s show dates include, May 24, June 7, June 21, July 12 and Aug. 16, with Aug. 23 as a make up rain date.

All start at 10 a.m. on the Sundays specified and classes are over by 3 p.m.

There will be barbecued food and drinks on the grounds, at a minimal cost, for family, spectators and riders.

This club has been part of the horse-riding community for decades. Anyone interested in learning more can contact stratfordsaddleclub@gmail.com.