Charity saddles up to help horse event, and themselves

It's not always about receiving the medal. Sometimes the experience itself is worth its weight in gold.

When Lamplight Equestrian Center and Pratts Wayne Forest Preserve hosted the annual Wayne DuPage Horse Trials recently, 280 horses and riders from all over the Midwest came out to compete in the three-discipline tournament.

"It was such a successful event," said Dan Kowalewski, organizer of the trials. "Everybody was friendly and left happy, even if their attempt didn't turn out the way they had hoped."

One group in particular was especially pleased with the event. The Friends for Therapeutic Equine Activities was not only a major benefactor to the trials, but also the primary charity. Friends organized more than 70 volunteers to help with judging and setting up obstacles, and, in return, a portion of the competitors' entrance fees was donated to the cause.

"It became a natural partnership," said Nancy Winkelman, program director and instructor for Friends. "Both groups are not-for-profit organizations who rely heavily on volunteers who appreciate and are interested in horses."

At the event, Friends presented a demonstration on the basic components of their program for the audience. Riders illustrated the exercises and explained the specific purposes of their actions.

The Friends works with individuals, ranging from children as young as 3 to adults, who have suffered traumatic injuries or struggle with lifelong disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome.

Through carefully designed exercises with trained instructors, participants are able to enjoy the benefits of horse riding, which include increased strength, self-confidence and independence. Michelle Terry of Geneva has experienced those merits first hand.

She came to the group seven years ago to find a sport she could handle with her multiple sclerosis. After taking years of therapeutic lessons, she now takes regular lessons and rides independently.

"I cannot say enough good about FTEA," she remarked. "It's such a great program that has brought strength, balance, and fun into my life."

Terry gave back by volunteering for the horse trials with her two young daughters. It's an event the family looks forward to every year.

"Our riders enjoy volunteering because it gives them the best seats in the house," said Winkelman. "They get to be up close and personal at the events, and gain insight into the previous lives of our program horses."

Watching the horses perform is definitely the biggest draw. The event, which was open free to the public, drew many curious onlookers.

"It's unusual to see horses jumping over logs and water," said Kowalewski. "Most people can't look away."

The Wayne DuPage Horse Trials are held annually. Visit www.waynedupageht.com.

Friends of Therapeutic Equine Activities is based in Winfield. For information on program offerings, visit www.ftea.org.