Rider Awards 2016

Anne Overwater Memborial Trophy

Most Improved Independent Rider

Bonnie G.

Anne Overwater was born in 1958 in Parkdale, MB, and moved to Didsbury in 1962. She attended school in Didsbury and graduated from Horizon School in Olds. She worked at the Olds Bottle Depot, and the Didsbury Hospital as a volunteer in the recycling program. Anne's first love was bowling but her second love was horse back riding. She loved all animals and the company of her fellow riders and volunteers. Anne passed away in 1994 from heart complications. Her spirit lives on in the spirits of all the riders and volunteers at MVSRA. Ride on!

Don Lynch Memorial Trophy

Most Outstanding Volunteer

Barb Jans

Don Lynch was a volunteer for MVSRA for many years, holding the treasurer position and helping out wherever possible. Don was an amazing man who gave of himself and his time to make our community a better place. All those who knew Don will remember him fondly as being very caring and understanding. The outstanding volunteer of the year award is given to an individual who, like Don, has made contributions in time and energy to MVSRA over and above what is expected. The decision of who gets such an award is always a difficult one, as all of our volunteers are so important to us.

Clarke Owens Memorial Trophy

Most Sportsmanlike Rider

Jesse H.

This award is presented to the rider who exhibits the most sportsmanlike attitude towards their fellow riders with their encouragement and helpfulness. Clarke Owens was a faithful volunteer at the MVSRA, bringing two or three horses each week. Clarke and his family also supplied a team and wagon for parades for many years. No matter the weather, Clarke could be seen riding and trailering his horses down the road to the Cow Palace. Clarke's dedication and quiet good humour was an encouragement to volunteers and riders alike. Clarke was an integral part of MVSRA for many years.

Ryan Boutwell Memorial Trophy

Achievement In The Face of Challenge

Nolan H.

This memorial trophy is presented to the rider who has overcome a significant challenge to enjoy and improve their riding skills. Ryan Boutwell was a little boy who started riding with MVSRA when he was eight years old. Ryan could not walk or talk and was also hearing and visually impaired. When he first started to ride he required total support from his side walkers, but by his third year, he could balance himself for several rounds about the arena. Ryan loved to ride and cuddle his pony and you could often hear him giggling as he experienced the freedom of movement. He was especially proud the summer he rode Blondie in the Olds Parade. Many of our riders are faced with similar challenges that Ryan had, and have also been able to succeed and make achievements in their riding ability in spite of those challenges.

Earl Stewart Memorial Trophy

Horsemanship

Sheila D.

Earl Stewart was a long time resident of Mountain View County. He enjoyed all aspects of country living, with riding being a particular favourite - in part to his involvement with the Canadian Cavalry in WWII. He worked on many farms and ranches to be near the horses. After becoming a long term resident of Didsbury Hospital, Earl was able to continue riding with MVSRA. Earl always took the time to brush, pet, and chat with his horse, and because of his love for horses, this Horsemanship Award is given in his name. Thank you to the Didsbury Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion for providing the perpetual trophy, and Bob and Mary Foster for the keeper trophy.

Fall 2016 Class Winners

Pumpkins and Buckets:

Jesse H.
Nolan H.
Sheila D.
Anthony S.

Musical Pylons:

Jesse H.
Nolan H.
Anthony S.
Sheila D.

Ring Toss:

Izak
Mathias L.
Jakob
Dawsyn H.

Mr. Wolf:

Izak
Dawsyn H.
Jakob
Mathias L.

Pole Bending:

Nathan H.
Bonnie G.
Tiffany M.
Kim.

Red Light / Green Light:

Nathan H.
Tiffany M.
Kim.
Bonnie G.