The event highlights the Rocky Mountain horse, a breed that has been in Kentucky for more than 100 years and is known for its mild demeanor, which makes it a very good breed for events like The Bonanza, Lawson said.
“Rocky Mountain horses are gaited horses which makes it a good pleasure and trail riding horse because it is such a smooth ride,” Lawson said. “The overwhelming characteristic of this horse is its temperament. It is a real docile, easy horse to handle which makes it a good family horse.”
The event isn’t strictly for Rocky Mountain horses, though. For $25, riders can bring their horses of any breed and work with professional trainers.
Dan James of Double Dan Horsemanship will present shows today and Saturday that are both educational and entertaining as he rides “Roman style,” riding two horses simultaneously with one foot on each horse.
James, a native Australian now living in Lexington, has competed in competitions worldwide and now conducts clinics sharing his horsemanship techniques and relationship building methods.
Today at 6 p.m., there will be a Spot Light Horse Sale and Auction featuring 30 premier horses as well as tack and other items.
Saturday’s events include an obstacle trail ride with open, pleasure and youth divisions, a corn hole tournament and a fun horse show. Sunday offers the American Trail Horse Association ride.
While The Bonanza is a fundraiser, Lawson said, it is also a way of showcasing the Rocky Mountain Horse and the Equestrian Center.
“This event brings in money that we give to charities that we work with. But we also want to use it to educate people about the Rocky Mountain breed and to increase participation in our events and shows,” Lawson said. “Another thing we want to do is to draw attention to the Kentucky Equestrian Center and let people know that it’s here. This is a beautiful facility and a beautiful show grounds. It’s a real asset to the horse people and to this community. I think it is one of the best kept secrets in Clark County and we want to share it with everyone and this is a way of hopefully getting people out who may not have ever been out there.”
Shows like The Bonanza are not breed specific, Lawson said, to encourage more participation.
“The whole show is open to all breeds, we’re just putting it on,” Lawson said. “We wanted to include everybody in the community or surrounding communities or anywhere they want to come from. It’s just a great way for horse lovers to come out and have a fun weekend, maybe learn something they didn’t know, and support the UMHA and the Equestrian Center.”
Contact Bob Flynn at bflynn@winchestersun.com.
