For Children, Summer on Island Will Be Enhanced by Equestrian Events
by Candice C. Dunnigan

"The horses are back! The horses are back at the barn."

- Mackinac Island youth,

June 2006

For many a child the fullness of spring and summer are intertwined with the arrival of the 4-H horses at the Mission Hill Barn. It's that time again, and summer riding lessons begin. The last seven years of June arrivals of horses at this quaint little barn seems to mean even more.

The advent of these horses also symbolizes something to the adults who are members of the Mackinac Island Horsemen's Association. This organization has grown. MHA is a varied group comprised of year-around residents, cottage families, new families, business people, and professionals. Having the 4-H horses returning again this month also means something to those who are not riders. Many people like the animals from afar; they're interested and inquisitive about them and their role here on the Island.

During Memorial Day weekend in May, I was again asked, "What are the events this summer? Can my child or grandchild sign up for lessons? Do you have any activities for non-riders?" The questions go on.

Nokona (left) and Andante, two of the horses used in the Mackinac Horsemen's Association and 4-H programs.

I am happy to be able to give answers. June will be a busy month. 4-H lessons will begin this upcoming week. For details, contact Leanne Brodeur, who is the director of the Mackinac Island 4H summer riding program. A child may sign up for a series of group lessons that are held (in age and ability rank) at Great Turtle Park. The horses, which are stabled at the Mission Hill Barn, are horses used in the program and they're leased on a seasonal basis. (They are not for commercial use). The second Blessing of the Animals will be at the Barn in conjunction with the Feast of Epona. Pastor Vincent Carroll from Little Stone Church will do the honors. Please have your horses on a lead; dogs, cats, and all other critters on a leash. Check the local informational television cable station for the Island, or stop by the Visitors Bureau for details.

Thursday, June 29, the Mackinac Island Public Library will hold an exhibit of painter Elizabeth Pollie's art. Ms. Pollie has donated an equine painting for the MHA that will be raffled off later this summer. The event is free and open to the public. A reception will follow, and it should be a special occasion.

July has varied equine affairs for Mackinac. Friday, July 7, Mackinac's carriage set is invited

for a twilight rally drive commencing behind Fort Mackinac at 6:30 p.m. (weather permitting). Prior to the drive, goodies will be on hand. Plans are for a 45minute to one-hour route through the main interior roads. A saddle fitting and clinic will be held Thursday, July 20, through Saturday, July 22, at Turtle Park. Monday, July 24, and Tuesday, July 25, will offer a Grooming and Showmanship clinic at the park. All of these events are free of charge. The 4-H youth will hold barn tours and a lemonade sale at the Mission Barn during the afternoon of Sunday, July 30. If you want to become a part of the Mackinac Island Horsemen's Association, membership forms will be on hand.

August begins with the Hunter Pace, Saturday, August 5. Sunday, August 6, the Fun and Games Show will be held at the ring in Great Turtle Park. The Annual Horse Show is slated for Sunday, August 13, with a rain date the following Sunday, August 20. MHAlessons end Friday, August 25.

Saturday, September 2, is reserved for MHA adults, as the annual Formal Labor Day ride begins in front of Donnybrook Cottage at 9 a.m. on the East Bluff. During this month some of the horses will remain at the Barn. For further details and an extended calendar, visit the MHA Web site: www.mackinachorses.com.

If you're just visiting the Island, we hope that you have a great time. Perhaps this June you may become as enthralled by these beasts as many of us continue to be. Please remember, be considerate. Do not pet the horses, unless you've asked. Give them the right of way, and the benefit of the doubt.

Candice Dunnigan is an active member of the American Equestrian Association, the Waterloo Hunt, and the Mackinac Island Horsemen's Association. Seasonally she resides at Easterly Cottage.