Christine Barsema and Sonny's Golden EFX (FL)
Team #902: Christine Barsema and Sonny’s Golden EFX
From: Tarpon Springs, Florida
Ages: 71 & 30
Combined Ages: 101
Test: WDAA Introductory Level Test 1
My love of riding began when I was a child and dreamed of having a horse of my own.
At 50 years old, I purchased Sonny’s Golden EFX (Sonny) sight unseen through a local trainer. He was a registered Paint and Quarter Horse, nine years old, gelded late in life, and had been ridden on trails, as well as shown in English. He was strong and confident. We have been a team for twenty-one years. We spent years happily riding on trails and learning Western riding skills. Trails teach you to be a confident rider. He also packed my young grandchildren around safely and successfully in lessons and horse shows.
Years later, I moved him to Avalon Stables in Lutz, Florida. They are primarily a Saddlebred show barn and are active in lessons and showing. I never had an interest in showing, but I wanted to improve my riding skills and balance. I started taking lessons and was eventually encouraged by Avalon owner, Pam Roush, to try an entry-level Western show class. I enjoyed it and participated in additional shows. When I learned about the Century Club, I made it my goal to accomplish it. Sonny is in outstanding condition for his age, and we enjoyed taking lessons and improving our skills in Western dressage. The Century Club ride brought me so much happiness, and I was proud we were able to successfully complete it together.
