Horse riding for 68 people with disabilities

Emmy has taken riding lessons at Happy Trails Riding Center since 2010. Last year she joined the Lake Oswego High School Equestrian team. She showed mini horses in hand. She really wanted to ride, but we didn't have a horse appropriate for her to use to show. This year she again showed the mini horses in hand, but really wanted to ride in her senior ceremony at Yamhill County Fairgrounds in April. Her mom contacted me to see if we had any ideas for a horse for her ride. One of our horses, Dixey was showing for West Linn High School Equestrian team and we decided to have Emmy try her. I wasn't sure it would be a fit, but Emmy was determined to be riding a horse in her senior ceremony.  When we practiced at the fairgrounds, Emmy rode beautifully, she was so very proud to show her teammates and coach she could ride. Her team coach was impressed and approved her to ride in the senior ceremony.

When asked if she'd like to thank those who have supported her in OHSET Emmy said, "Miss Nicole (Happy Trails Riding Instructor) for teaching me and letting me finally make my dream come true by riding Dixie in the open practice arena."

On April 16th Emmy rode with the other high school seniors in the Oregon High School Equestrian Team Senior Ceremony. Her goals are to take art classes and hang out with friends after finishing high school. She would like to illustrate childrens books.

At Happy Trails we teach riding and provide social opportunities for people with disabilities and special needs. Sometimes we even help make dreams come true and we are so very proud to be part of that.