Stratford and District Saddle Club celebrates a successful season at annual awards banquet

Smiles all around for this year’s award winners. From left are Carley Berger, Hailey Bell, Colton Darling, Ben Bell (front), Luke Bell (lying on stage), Averie Jacobs, Lennon Jacobs and Savannah Jacobs. Standing, from left, are Natalie Woods, Charlotte Fisher, Pearl Fawcett, Annan Murphy, Kayla Topan, Megan Hachborn and Martin Switzer. Gary West photo

By Gary West

The Stratford and District Saddle Club capped off another successful year on the weekend with its annual awards banquet, recognizing the dedication and accomplishments of young riders who competed throughout the summer.

Club president Martin Ritsma opened the evening by commending the youth involved in the organization, noting how programs like this help build valuable life skills.

“As an educator, I’ve seen firsthand how clubs like this can shape young people and give them experiences that last a lifetime,” Ritsma said.

Throughout the summer, riders took part in multiple competitions at the Schlotzhauer Riding Facility east of Stratford on Line 37 in North Easthope Township, showcasing their horsemanship and teamwork in a variety of classes.

Trophies and awards were presented to riders of all ages, recognizing excellence in showmanship, games and western riding categories.

The Stratford and District Saddle Club would like to thank its generous sponsors: Ellice Optimist Club, Shakespeare Optimist Club, Stratford Optimist Club, Bill’s Quality Flooring, Berger Plumbing, A&A Auto, Colton Darling Family and the Mary Murphy Family.