WNYCCA – new organization shares the excitement of driving! - submitted by Debbie North
New organization having a great time on wheels.
Western New York Combined Carriage Association was formed in early spring of 2017 with the mission of promoting education, safety, and fun for the sport of driving. Information on this new organization can be found at www.wnycca.org. Officers are President Bruce Jones, Vice President Ken Perkins, Secretary Danny Harter, and Treasurer Debbie North.
Our first event was a winter rally and while there was no snow, we had a great time on wheels! It was held on February 4 at High Hopes Farm in Honeoye Falls, New York. Everyone enjoyed spirited competition, good friends, and good food. Many thanks to Fred Merriam for judging.
May 5 – 7 saw a spring training camp with a clinic with Fred Merriam on Friday, followed by a combined training event on Saturday and HDT on Sunday. High Hopes Farm once again hosted and the following championships were awarded:
Training Division/Horse: Lindsay LaBella, Champion
Training/Pairs: Champion Brenda Lester, Reserve Michele Johnson
Preliminary: Champion Ken Perkins, Reserve Carol Sax
Intermediate: Tricia Anselm, Champion
On Sunday, June 25, WNYCCA members joined the TriCounty Draft Horse Club for a drive through beautiful Mendon Ponds Park near Rochester. Thank you for inviting us.
Save the date – August 5, 2017! Our next event will be a fantastic clinic featuring Paul T. Haefer, Ph.D., of Riding Far LLC. Dr. Haefner is a licensed clinical psychologist and avid equestrian in private practice in Virginia. He provides a wide range of sports psychology consultation services to riders, instructors, and trainers. Dr. Haefner will have a discussion for the attendees and be available for one on one sessions. Other activities will include a driving fashion show and driving demonstrations. Whether you are a seasoned whip or ‘driving curious’ there will be something for everyone at this exciting event. Details can be found on the WNYCCA Facebook page or by viewing updates at www.highhopesfarms.com. Our host is High Hopes Farm and questions can be directed to Sarah Bates at 585-350-6495. Join us for a fun filled and informative day in the beautiful Rochester area. Vendor spots are available, so please contact Sarah for more information.
Looking forward, WNYCCA is partnering with Genesee Valley Riding and Driving Club for their 35th annual HDT and CT, September 9 and 10 in Geneseo, New York. Information available at www.gvrdc.org.
Explore the excitement of driving with WNYCCA. We’d love to share our sport with you!