Special Olympics North Carolina athletes will compete in showmanship, dressage, western riding, gymkhana races, equitation and working trails at the SONC Equestrian Tournament when the annual event returns Sept. 19-21 to Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring.
The competition returns to the Indoor Complex at TIEC, providing athletes from across North Carolina the opportunity to showcase their riding skills at one of the nation’s premier equestrian facilities.
The tournament features six competitive disciplines designed to highlight different aspects of horsemanship. Athletes will demonstrate their abilities in showmanship, which emphasizes the presentation and handling of horses, as well as dressage, often called “the highest expression of horse training.” Western riding events will showcase traditional ranch-style horsemanship, while gymkhana races will test speed and agility.
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Equitation competitions focus on the rider’s form and technique, and working trails events challenge horse-and-rider teams to navigate various obstacles that simulate real-world riding scenarios.
This event is free and open to the public for spectators, offering the community a chance to support the athletes as they compete. TIEC, which has hosted the event in previous years, provides world-class facilities for the competition.
Volunteers are needed for the event, providing community members an opportunity to support the athletes and help ensure the tournament’s success. Those interested in volunteering can register online.
