Serious Certification Seminars

Well, when the Root Farm staff goes out for Certification, we do it up right!

Over the weekend of October 24 Kim and Pete Senn traveled to Ohio to test for their CHA (Certified Horseman's Association) certification as Barn Managers.

Not that they weren't already doing the job . . . but we all know how much a piece of paper with a professional signature can mean when it comes down to the nitty gritty.

Kim and Pete spent a good three days reviewing all the tasks and responsibilities of farm managers at Pegasus Farm in Hartville, Ohio. Kim tested out at level ll Equine Facility Management (Stable manager), while Pete was confirmed at level lll (Herd Manager).

Three cheers for Root Farm's barn managers!

The same weekend, our fearless leader, Alice, found herself at a posh driving establishment in Kentucky, Galyla Driving Center, that is host to United States Driving for the Disabled. she attended three days of NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped Association) sponsored driving workshop and then another three days testing for her driving instructor certification.

Yeah for Root Farm's certified therapeutic driving instructor!

So, all in all, it was a big week, with another five intense days to follow at the Syracuse Invitational.

Never a dull moment!

First Annual Hunter Pace Benefit

First Annual Hunter Pace Benefit

Root Farm held its first annual benefit hunter pace on October 20th, and everything went according to plan, with mother nature cooperating with a rainless day. Jack Buschmann of MKJ Farm in Deansboro generously offered his 300 acre farm for the event. The Root Farm folks spent the summer clearing a lovely five-mile trail across fields and through woods, up and down hills with spectacular views of the Mohawk Valley. When the horses came back from the trail ride, they were treated to the sounds of a local band, "Draft Horse," and a body and soul-warming barbecue. Awards were given for the best time as well as other fun categories such as oldest, youngest, best and worst matched, and even "worst helmet hair!" 45 riders, some from as far away as Albany, came for the hunter pace, and everyone was enthusiastic about both the trail and the entertainment. The farm expects that next year will bring out even greater numbers.

All proceeds from the event went for the benefit of the Farm, and we are very grateful to all who participated. To view some great photos of the hunter pace and the horses and riders -- not to mentions views of our beautiful valley! -- go to www.rootfarm.org and click on "hunter pace pictures."

August Activities

August activites:

Chance and Stella performed with JD Winslow at Chenango County Fair for two days.

They also participated with the team at Rootin Tootin Horseplay days at Erie Canal Village.

$10,000 grant from Dave Townsend!

Root Farm is delighted to receive a grant from Dave Townsend that will assist us in serving the autistic population. The funds will go mainly towards scholarships and equipment. For more details, please read the following article: http://www.oneidacountycourier.com/vernon-new-york-news/root-farm-thanks-townsend-for-program-fund/