SFEA Trail Challenge Obstacles found on a trail ride By Tommy Brannon Trail Challenge, what's that? If it is supposed to be a realistic representation of obstacles found on a trail ride, when do you encounter a drunken hiker? These are some of the light-hearted questions asked by spectators and participants at the second annual Shelby Farms Equestrian Alliance (SFEA) Trail Challenge, November 27, 2010 at Shelby Farms in Memphis, TN. The fun, but competitive mood was contagious among the riders, led by the example of organizer Rick Richardson, aka Ranger Rick. Rick structured the Trail Challenge for amateur riders of all riding disciplines and various breeds of horses, although he did receive some inquiries about how much added prize money was offered. Maybe next year’s Trail Challenge will be finding sponsors for that “added money.” There were 38 entries in the competition with riders from a variety of disciplines, ranging from experienced trail horses, ranch sorting horses, Tennessee Walking Horses, eventers, fox hunters, and even a rescued Mustang. Classes were divided according to age group and experience, with English and western tack represented in all classes. The course was designed similarly to a trail class in a Quarter Horse show with challenges such as opening a gate, backing around a large obstacle, crossing bridges and a teeter totter, and going through curtains and tunnels. Set up in the open rolling terrain of Shelby Farms, it was much larger in scope than an arena trail class and included additional challenges such as crossing open water and jumping down a riveted embankment. Riders could opt out of any obstacle they did not think their horse could manage, but would receive a score of zero for that obstacle. Only one class was timed. All in all it was a fun experience on a clear, crisp autumn day. SFEA is planning next year’s Trail Challenge for the Saturday after Thanksgiving. For more information about Shelby Farms Equestrian Alliance and its role in keeping horseback riding on Shelby Farms, visit www.sfeaonline.org