March 18, 2015 · 0 Comments
The first fundraiser of the newly formed ‘The Greater Dufferin Saddle Club’ is set to take place this Sunday, March 22, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The event is just the first of many events planned by the Club, with a focus on making equine competition accessible to all – regardless of economic circumstances or ability.
With the support of the Shelburne Fall Fair Board, The Greater Dufferin Saddle Club will utilize the Agricultural Hall (377 William Street, Shelburne) for regular meetings and special events – including the Championships, which will be held during the Fall Fair.
The aim of this first fundraiser for The Greater Dufferin Saddle Club – run by board members: President: Afton Bishop; Vice-President and Marketing: Cheryl Devlin-Blasioli; Secretary & Welfare of Animals: Dawn Bishop; Youth Representative: Emily Devlin; Grounds keeper: Justin Gravel – or (GDSC) is to start saving money for fencing at the fairgrounds, which will be necessary as they kick-off their 2015 season.
A second fundraiser is already being planned for Sunday, May 3rd, – and this event will feature a tack swap (tack being equine equipment such as saddles, bridles, and even clothing), as well as vendors and local home-based business owners selling their wares (many items with horse themes). The launch of the ‘Poor Little Monkey’ jewellery line will also debut at this event.
“We started this on the premise that not everyone can afford to ride in certain circuits, based on the registration costs,” said Cheryl Devlin-Blasioli, Vice-President and Director of Marketing for the GDSC. “We also really want to get the message out there that this is about community. Having a chance to ride and compete close to home, for reasonable rates, is really going to open this sport up to everyone. That’s really important to our Club.”
Devlin-Blasioli also told the Free Press that the benefits for local vendors and high school volunteers can be endless.
The first show of the GDSC is set for May 17th, with monthly shows to follow thereafter.
“The Fair board is very proud that a equestrian club will be returning to the grounds, and the monthly series will encourage more use of the grounds through out the year,” said Jason Yarwood, 2nd VP Shelburne Fair Board.
Shows will feature a wide-range of events, including: hunter jumper, halter, and pleasure in both youth and adult categories.
There’s one thing that GDSC members want to make clear: “We’re not in this for the money,” said Devlin-Blasioli.
Putting her bridle where her mouth is, Devlin-Blasioli told the Citizen the highest registration fee for any event so far has been set at just $5.
And membership is open to all.
“As long as you have a horse and know how to ride – come on out!” Devlin-Blasioli said.
For more information regarding membership, volunteer opportunities and sponsorship packages ‘Like’ The Greater Dufferin Saddle Club on Facebook at www.facebook.com/greaterdufferinsaddleclub or e-mail greaterdufferinsaddleclub@yahoo.ca