More classes, more riders…more fun!

If a horse show class list has the word “ranch” in it, chances are that it has a growing number of entries.

There are five different ranch riding classes now sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association, and they are frequently among the most popular at Southern California western shows.

The explosion in popularity has multiple causes, not the least of which is that ranch riding rewards a solid, well-broke horse that shows most suitable for getting the job done on a working ranch—a horse that rides and works with purpose.

A look at some of the region’s best boarding facilities

Anaheim Equestrian Center & Rancho Del Rio Stable
1370 S. Sanderson Ave. • Anaheim, CA 92806
(714) 535-3510 • RanchoDelRioStable.com

These stables are committed to their mission to offer support and training to every person interested in learning more about the magnificent horse. They strive for a partnership between people, horses, community and environment and to provide a safe, fun place for horses and people of all ages where they can learn the skill and art of horsemanship. This is a learning center, similar to a school, with the privilege of being in a park-like setting that has access to many miles of riding trails along the Santa Ana riverbed. The center has a 64-stall barn, 12’ x 12’ box stalls, and 12’ x 24’ full covered stalls for over 140 stalls from which to choose. An on-site tack and feed store, which provides free delivery to your stall, is open to the public. Be sure to check out the list of many trainers of all disciplines. See ad on page 18

DEL MAR—The annual Del Mar National Horse Show has a rich history of showcasing some of the most exciting and prestigious world-class equestrian competitions in the western region. The three-week event, now in its 74th year, is a Southern California tradition.

This year, the excitement and pageantry of the event will thrill crowds in the Del Mar Arena at the Del Mar Fairgrounds from April 16-May 5. The show features three separate weeks of equestrian competition. Western Week runs from April 16-20, Dressage Week is April 25-28 and Hunter/Jumper week is April 30-May 5.

Each week of the Del Mar National features a distinct discipline—Western, Dressage and Hunter-jumper—and closes with a special event highlighting that segment on Saturday evenings. “Night of the Horse” presented by Mary’s Tack & Feed on April 20, is the exclamation point of Western Week where you’ll be dazzled with daring feats during a truly unique musical equestrian theatrical performance.

Hawthorne Country Store will host a Purina® Check-R-Board® Day & BIG, FAT, HUGE SALE on Saturday, August 25 from 9 am to 5 pm. EVERYTHING WILL BE ON SALE from small discounts to serious yard-sale-pricing blow-out discounts! There will be back-to-school specials on kid’s clothing including boots and jeans. Come check out the sale in our extensive department for harvest prep, canning and food dehydration! Now is the time to get ready for your next FFA and 4-H project with great deals on equipment and supplies. PREPAY FOR FEED & COMMODITY PRODUCTS on sale this day and collect your discounted product for months to come! You’ll find manufacturer reps to talk about your favorite products, giveaways, samples and multiple fantastic raffle prizes! The sale is happening at both Hawthorne Country Store locations in Escondido and Fallbrook. Hawthorne Country Store is a Purina® Expert Dealer.