Non-Stop Horse Events At Northeast Equine Expo, Memorial Day Weekend
May 26, 2010
(Elmont, N.Y.)-Rescued horses and equine movie stars, along with dozens of clinics and demonstrations, make for a family-friendly Memorial Weekend.
Horses from the Disney movie Hidalgo will perform at the Northeast Equine Expo, the largest equine expo on Long Island, at prestigious Belmont Park, May 29-30.
Tori Lockhart, 15, was given Oscar when Hidalgo’s screenwriter saw how closely she and the horse bonded. The original Hidalgo was a Colonial Spanish Mustang, one of the oldest and rarest breeds in the Americas. Stephanie Lockhart, active in preserving the breed, will present two of her Spanish Mustangs, giving visitors a chance to see America’s first horse.
Jessica Walsh, Expo President, said, “This is a perfect way for families to enjoy a weekend of wholesome entertainment that will appeal to all ages. For horse enthusiasts as well as people looking for a different experience, this is unique opportunity to celebrate all things equine. Expo will feature dozens of breeds, continuous demonstrations of equine sports, and hundreds of vendors of horse-related equipment and gifts.”
Natural Horseman trainer Sonny Garguilo has challenged other trainers to a competition at the Expo. Garguilo, who has appeared on the covers of leading horse journals, will show how the perfect relationship is one that is based on mutual trust. Along with his horse and partner, Sis, he will show how much can be achieved when the rider becomes a partner, not a passenger.
Demonstrations and clinics will take place throughout both days, and between the thoroughbred races. The Spirit of Long Island, a highly acclaimed precision drill team, will perform their intricate maneuvers to patriotic music and massed mounted police units from throughout Nassau County will put on a stirring show.
The Island Long Riders will demonstrate the Cowboy Mounted Shooting, the fastest growing equestrian sport in the nation. Mounted contestants compete in this fast-action timed event using two .45 caliber single action revolvers each loaded with five rounds of specially prepared blank ammunition. Mounted Shooting is like barrel racing with the rider shooting blank from .45 caliber pistols at balloons.
If horse racing is considered the sport of kings, then polo is the sport played by kings. Visitors can see a polo match put on by Meadowbrook Polo Club of Long Island, the oldest in the nation. College teams will also compete in this fast-moving sport.
From Crystal Brook Stables, Cindy Laskow will show horses’ raw strength and athleticism as they jump brightly colored fences. Dressage is considered the ballet of riding, demanding precise footwork and movement of four-legged athletes. Lorraine Burke will show how a horse weighing more than a thousand pounds can follow subtle cues.
Compared to refined and quiet dressage, reining is more exuberant. Tina McBride and Patricia Barbato will demonstrate their horses’ tremendous agility as they guide them through circles, spins, and sliding stops.
On Saturday, May 29, Susan Richards, New York Times best-selling author of Chosen By a Horse, will read from her latest memoir, Saddled, depicting the life-changing relationship she had with her horse.
A spectacular Parade of Horses will be held on Sunday, May 30. Between events, families can picnic on Belmont’s manicured grounds. Belmont also has a duck pond and playground for children.
All local students from ages 5 to 16 have been invited to participate in the art competition, based on the theme, “Horses Bring Us Joy.” Students who submitted artwork will receive complimentary tickets to the Equine Expo. Judging the competition is award-winning illustrator, Ruth Sanderson, whose work includes the Horse Diaries series and the original Black Stallion paperback book. Winners will be announced on Sunday, May 30.
Jessica Walsh, said “We are proud to partner with outstanding organizations like the New York Racing Association, Inc.” The association oversees Belmont Park, host of the Belmont Stakes, the third jewel in the Triple Crown. It is home to some of the finest horses in the world.
Walsh said, “For a brief shining moment, formerly abused horses will parade on the same track as their multi-million dollar cousins. We appreciate NYRA, along with Amaryllis Farms and Project Sage Horse Rescue, for giving these horses the opportunity to find their forever home. We are also honored to have Ronald McDonald House, many other charities, and horse rescue associations participating in our event.”
The first ever Spirit Award will be given to a local hero who has shown great passion and perseverance to improving the welfare of horses.
Tickets, $18 for one day, and $25 for both days, are available online at http://neequineexpo.com and at Belmont Park. Children under age 10, Boy and Girl Scouts in uniform, as well as active members of the armed forces with identification will be admitted without charge.
For more information about Expo schedule, exhibitors, and tickets, please call (877) 778-EXPO or visit www.neequineexpo.com.
Posted by News LI Editor · Filed Under Entertainment
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