On March 17, 2002, the equine mecca of Ocala, Florida will be the site of an exciting Symphony Of Horses. The event will be held for the benefit of the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association which provides physically, mentally and emotionally challenged people with the ability to ride and drive horses. Kathy Gray, who has been riding with the Marion Therapeutic Riding Association for 17 years, was recently named UPHA Exceptional Challenge Cup Finals Champion at the American Royal riding the Morgan Castlebar Knickee.
The Symphony Of Horses will feature an evening of world class horses and riders performing to the live blend of classical and pop music from the Central Florida Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Susan Robinson. Announcer Peter Fenton will make the trip from California to serve as master of ceremonies for the evening. World and National Champions from more than 15 different breeds and disciplines will be presented in this showcase. The presentation will include; Olympic & U.S.E.T. riders and drivers, coaching, dressage, jumping, reining, National and International Champion Horses, drill team performances, and an array of world caliber stallions. Our Morgan and Saddlebred performers will include the great stallion Tug Hill Commando with Cheri Barber handling and a variety of champion Saddlebreds under the direction of Maria Gilman and Don Judd.
The Morgan and Saddlebred communities have been great supporters with many generous sponsorships for this event. To date they include; Misdee Wrigley, Deborah Butler, Mary Gaylord, David Freedman, Katrina Wood, The Bay Foundation, Drs. Jerome and Shirley Modell, Bruce Ekstrom, and one of the association's valued volunteers Sally Ann Lyle, who created the logo. It's not too late to have your name added to this sponsorship list. "Few things in life are more rewarding than the smile of pride and joy on the face of a physically, emotionally or mentally challenged person after just a few minutes riding a horse."
An array of dignitaries from the political, educational and equine industries will be on hand for this eagerly anticipated event. Included on this list will be Florida Secretary of State Katherine Harris and University of Florida President Dr. Charles E. Young.
The symphony will take place at 7:00pm on Sunday, March 17, 2002, at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion. A limited number of VIP Box Seating is available for $100 and includes cocktails and a 5:00pm dinner. General admission seats are available for $20.
For more information on the Marion Therapeutic Riding Assoc. and the Symphony Of Horses, please contact Earleen Kenyon at (352)351-8165 or Betty Gray at (352)591-1486.