The Cariboo Cowgirls Drill Team Ride with Pride dazzled spectators in October at the Mane Event Equine Expedition Horse and Equine Show in Chilliwack.
The cowgirls performed their “electrifying” Shot in the Dark performance both Friday and Saturday at the event.
“In the darkened arena we showcased horse and rider illuminated by glow sticks while representing our beautiful city of Williams Lake,” said Cariboo Cowgirls Drill Team president Tammy Ward.
Each evening they opened the show in the grand entry featuring senior rider Brandy Young, riding Sam, accompanied by junior rider Trinity Fraser, 10, riding her horse, Kaz, in her very first performance.
“We entered the arena with the lights on showcasing our flag as each set of lights went out one by one revealing the horse and rider illuminated by close sticks finishing our grand entry lap in a darkened arena as the crowd stomped its feet and cheered,” Ward said. “We entered the arena at full speed performing our amazing show and received a standing ovation.”
Ward said the team appreciates the work Young did in taking its youngest member, Trinity, under her wing and for keeping her safe.
“We’d also like to extend a huge thank you to Gail Barker, Ron and Rod and all their committee members for their sponsorship, kindness and generosity,” she said. “We’d like to thank Tammy Foot for housing our horses, as well as the Williams Lake Stampede Association and Allison Everett and Doug White for the use of their arenas to prepare for this event.”
She added the City of Williams Lake, the GOAT FM and Cariboo Country and the Williams Lake Tribune were all great in their support.
Lastly, Ward gave huge praise to the team’s coach, John Young of Young’s Performance Horses, for all his help and leadership.
The Mane Events runs every October with up to 22,000 people attending each year.
With several events already lined up 2015 is shaping up to be an active year for the cowgirls.
“We’re looking forward to our already busy 2015 rodeo season,” Ward said.