Girls loving Horse Camp at CL Equestrian Center

By Donna Kupke
Canyon Lake Equestrian Center

The Canyon Lake Equestrian Center held its second Summer Horse Camp last week under the expertise of Canyon Lake resident horse trainer and riding instructor, Michell Stubbs. Despite the hot and sometimes humid weather, 12 young ladies enjoyed a truly memorable experience of riding and caring for their equine charges.

The camp took place Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to noon each day. Horse Camp participants each had a turn at three different “stations” that consisted of a daily craft, a live equestrian learning experience, and horseback games or riding lessons.

The participants learned about the care and maintenance of the horses. They did their own grooming before and after riding, as well as bathing, feeding and “tacking up” or putting the various forms of equipment called “tack” (such as halters, bridles and saddles) on the horses.

They also learned about various parts of equine anatomy, colors and markings. They were taught about parts of a saddle and bridle as well as how to take one apart for cleaning and then putting it back together.

Part of each day was making a horse-related craft. They made horseshoe photo frames, horsie bookmarks, and more. There were snacks, home projects and even a birthday party.

Each day was a new and fun experience for each of the girls, all while bonding with new friends and participating in amazing horse experiences. All the kids walked and trotted on horseback, while those with some experience were able to canter and even do a little jumping.

They all learned balancing exercises, control and how to properly “sit” while riding. Most importantly, the girls learned about proper safety practices when around horses.

“We all had so much fun,” Michelle said. “I’m thankful for the support of boarders lending their horses to allow more kids for this July Horse Camp. The August camp is sold out, but I’m hopeful to welcome even more community members for a Winter Holiday Horse Camp.”

Those participating in the camp last week were Michelle Kelly, 10, Isabella Peperizzi, 10, Kayelynn Schwarzmann, 10, Kyla Easterly, 11, Audrina Raham, 9, Taylor Schoessow, 10, Summer Morrison, 10, Vivi Tello, 9, Johanna Parslow, 9, Sadie McDowell, 10, Charlotte Moore, 10, and Emily Gluck, 8.

The horses that participated were “GiGi” and “Noel,” both owned by Michelle Stubbs, “Malibu” owned by Amber Paugh-Alderson and “Filly” owned by Kathy Mulkahy.

“A special thank you to volunteers Donna Kupke, McKenna Hayes, Eliana Ruyle, Rylee Anderson and Lexi Smith for their time and effort to make this a special event for the Camp Kids,” Michelle said.

Michelle is a certified horse trainer and riding instructor who is also a wife, mom and Canyon Lake resident. She offers private and semi private lessons to residents of any ability from age 3 and up. Horses are provided. To reserve a spot or for more information regarding future camps and/or horseback riding lessons at the CLEC, contact Michelle at 949-412-2927.

Photo by Donna Kupke

Photo by Donna Kupke

Photo by Donna Kupke

Charlotte Moore on GiGi

Photo by Donna Kupke

Photo by Donna Kupke

Photo by Donna Kupke

Michelle Kelly and Malibu

Charlotte Moore, Emily Gluck, Michelle Kelly and Johanna Parslow stay cool in the shade while learning about equine body parts from Volunteer Donna Kupke.

Photo by Donna Kupke

Photo by Donna Kupke

Photo by Donna Kupke

Photo by Donna Kupke