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Special Olympics for Equestrians included local riders The Special Olympics for Equestrians Regional Games were held n September 6 and the State Games on October 4, at Lehman Farms in Mendon. Olympians from Everybody Rides Therapeutic Riding Program in Newark and other area therapeutic riding programs participated in Equitation classes judged on the riders position in the saddle and ability to direct the horse, and Trail classes where the rider had to negotiate his or her way over poles, around obstacles and perform a few easy tasks from the back of the therapy horse. The riders compete in categories suitable to their ability. Some riders are independent and perform in the classes without assistance. Other riders receive varying degrees of assistance, from the horse being led by a handler to the addition of side walkers to assist a rider who may have balance problems. Regardless of the assistance received, these equestrians were all very proud of their accomplishments. Competing in the Regional Games were Brittany Merritt of Williamson, Rachael Herman and Kyle Johnson of Marion, Jamie Hennessey of Geneva, Leslie Kenyon of Newark, Richard Gunthner of Geneva, and Molly Sepala of Canandaigua. Competing in the State Games were Brittany Merritt, Rachael Herman, Jamie Hennessey, Richard Gunthner and Molly Sepala. The instructors and volunteers from Everybody Rides make these opportunities happen. Jo Anderson, Lisa Williams and Jessie Howe are dedicated to their students and work hard to provide them with the instruction to maximize their potential and enjoyment from this wonderful therapy. Haley Shears volunteered at the Regional Games and Linda Carter volunteered as a handler at both Games leading horses and assisting the instructors with their students. Copyright
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