SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KLTV) – With their ponies kicking up dirt as they practiced in the summer heat at Texas Rose Horse Park Wednesday, a team of seven East Texans is getting ready to compete in the Pony Finals in Lexington, Kentucky.
The group participated in multiple shows to make it to the finals.
Caroline Gerner said it was a “really special moment” when she learned she was going to the Bluegrass State.
“We were on my last round before the due date to get into Pony Finals… we got a round clear, so it was pretty fun,” added Gerner.
The group of East Texans competing at the Pony Finals. From left to right: Brooklyn Hester, Alexandra Shinn, Kolbi Horton, Kiya Ross, Addison Stewart, Harper Comer, and Caroline Gerner.(Michael Richardson/KLTV)
Getting to this point has been a years-long aspiration for Addison Stewart.
“I’m so excited to compete with my trainer and my friends and it’s just going to be such a great opportunity,” Stewart said.
Kimberly Brunson, who coaches the group, said there will be an individual and a team part of the competition, and winners receive items such as medals and blankets.
“We are so lucky to be able to ride these ponies,” Brunson said. “We are very, very blessed and thank God for every opportunity for us to get here and do this and really enjoy the journey.”
The USEF Pony Finals goes from Aug. 4-9.
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