According to officials at the center, “This is the first year all monies raised are staying here in Cleveland. With the money, the Riding Center is starting the ‘Horses for Heroes’ program for our veterans.”
Some of the most regal and beautiful horses from across the nation are making their way to Cleveland for the show.
Participants from across the South will attend what is the largest saddlebred show in Tennessee.
“There is something for everyone,” said Robert DeBord, show manager. “From the beautiful, athletic saddlebred, to speeding roadsters or high-stepping hackney ponies, you don’t have to know anything about horses to enjoy this event. Many people just love to bring their families out here and watch the show. And, for those who have never been, this show is really a hidden part of Bradley County’s beauty you need to discover.”
The Therapeutic Riding Center is dedicated to children and adults with mental or physical impairments.
“It is amazing to see how someone who faces these challenges on a daily basis can grow so quickly when they ride a horse,” said Denise Wright, Therapeutic Riding Center director. “They might not speak much. Then they learn to say commands and direct their horse, and it really makes a difference in their lives. They smile more, move more, and develop control that they were lacking before coming here.”
That program is named the Reinbow Riders and pointed at helping special needs applicants.
The show runs Wednesday through Saturday, with main events starting at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 at the gate, but kids 10 and under are free. Dinner and snacks are available at the Tri-State Kitchen each evening, according to officials.
This is the 11th year TSEC has been in operation and hosts equestrian, arts, music and other community shows in the over 70,000-square-foot covered arena.
For more information, contact Tri-State Exhibition Center at 423-476-9310, or www.tsec.org.
For more information on the Chattanooga/Cleveland Charity Horse or The Therapeutic Riding Center, contact Denise Wright at 339-2517.
