2022 President's Message
Activities in the club continued to flourish this year with weekly meet ups for lessons, Drill Team practices, Working Equitation (WE) lessons and drop in riding for those schooling their horses. On Sundays from May to October the Farmers Market is open to a host of visitors whose curiosity draws them over to the MES ring to watch, talk and sometimes pat a horse. This has been a great opportunity for us to promote our sport as people of all ages can meet a horse and rider up close where it is safe and supervised. A place to ask questions, learn and engage with our members who are equally as thrilled to share their passion on all things related to horses including the history of our wonderful facility. As a point of interest, plans for the ring started in 1987 and the Grand Opening took place at Metchosin Day in 1991. Check out the “About Us” section of this website for more information.
Several projects were tackled this year: refurbishing and building obstacles for our “WE” practices, replacing the wooden manure bin with a concrete block bin and repairing the serious leak in the lower clubhouse. We’re grateful for the efforts of the William Head Work Release personnel who, over several mornings attended to painting the ring rails and fence posts for the main ring.
Four of our members trained and participated in the 55+ BC Games held at the Saanich Fair Grounds this past fall. Riders from all over Vancouver Island competed in the “Working Equitation” discipline which was featured for the first time at the games. Many of these riders trained together at schooling shows leading up to the games where much camaraderie was fostered by the enthusiasm of the riders. I had the privilege of qualifying as a senior and competing alongside my peers making new friends and memories.
Being the President of MES has been memorable and I’m grateful for all I’ve learned from the horse community. I’m leaving my post as a leader in the club as I will be taking a leadership role as a Municipal Councillor in Metchosin. I won’t be far as I’ve committed to working on club projects and riding with you all either in drills, clinics, through obstacle courses or ambling the serene, forested trails.
Kindest regards,
Shelly Donaldson