by Mary Marshall

Tracey Burchell, riding Blue Moon’s Southern Belle, out navigated eight other riders from throughout Kentucky to win the novice division of the first KMSHA competitive trail ride held on July 21 at John Haddix’s Summer Shade Farm in Winchester, Kentucky.

Burchell, a member of the KMSHA advisory board, was competing in her first competitive trail ride on Belle. Burchell broke and trained the blue roan mare, who seems to enjoy her new role as a competitive trail mount. "I was absolutely thrilled with the win," said an enthusiastic Burchell. "I’ve shown Belle in the ring and out, and she really seems to enjoy the trail competition more than anything. We’re planning on riding at the East Fork competitive ride and the KMSHA ride on November 3. I’m really looking forward to it."

Haddix, coordinator of the new competitive trail riding program, was pleased with the turn-out, and expects more participation at the November 3 ride.

"We had nine eager riders and their horses show up for the first novice ride, which was the only division we offered this time." said Haddix. "Our next ride will be held on November 3, and we hope to draw riders from other states to compete for the coveted $1,000 first place prize."

Competitor James Alexander, who joined the KMSHA just to participate in the ride, finished eighth aboard A Gentleman’s Secret in their first competitive trail experience.

The trail ride was held over 800 acres, and consisted of mostly natural obstacles. Riders were also required to perform simple trail-related tasks, such as putting on and taking off a raincoat, and mounting and dismounting while the horse stands quietly.

"The competitive trail riding program emphasizes good horsemanship skills, trail and camping etiquette, and the partnership between horse and rider," Haddix stated. "It is an exciting opportunity for riders of all ages to compete in a friendly environment while putting their trail and camping skills to the test."

Haddix emphasized that competitive trail riding is a growing sport that allows riders from all walks of life to participate and compete.

"The KMSHA program is strictly for Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horses," he continued. "We decided to start out with novice divisions in order to make everyone comfortable. We will add more divisions as the interest and skill level grows."

The two KMSHA competitive rides will pay through tenth place. Three-thousand dollars of Kentucky Breeder’s Incentive money has been included in the purse structure for both rides this year.

The next competitive trail ride will be held on November 3 at Summer Shade Farm, with a demonstration ride on November 2. For more information on the ride and how to enter, contact Haddix at 859-842-4604 or 859-595-6414, or the KMSHA office at office@kmsha.com.