Julia Magsombol

Lakeside Leader

The Traildusters Horse Club of Smith held their final gymkhana on Sept. 7.

“I love when people come out, especially kids. They become good friends, riding together, helping and cheering each other on. It makes me happy,” says Danielle Geddes, the club president for 17 years.

She led the last gymkhana.

The horse club began in 1979, making it a 46 years old club.

“I want to keep it going,” adds Geddes.

The event was held at the Traildusters outdoor riding arena in the Smith Community Complex from noon to 3 p.m.

The club is full of people eager to join the gymkhana, a day of competitions between horse riders.

They timed as they rode their horses and went through various challenges, including barrels, poles, flags, keyholes, and stakes. Gymkhana starts in May and concludes in mid-September.

Geddes explained the club is open to all ages, from babies to seniors. The youngest member of the club was three years old.

“I want to grow the club, bring more families and kids, and see how much they support one another. I just want everyone to have fun and be smiling,” adds Geddes.

For people interested in joining the club, please visit slavelakeregion.ca/directory/recreation/outdoor/traildusters-horse-club-of-smith/.