Elizabeth Walton and Saundra (TN)
Team #895: Elizabeth Walton and Saundra
From: Clarksville, Tennessee
Ages: 79 & 27
Combined Ages: 106
Test: Introductory Level Test B
I was so excited to finally have a date to do my Century Club ride – May 17, 2025! A Century Club ride had been my dream for years. I got my first horse for myself for my 50th birthday. My two daughters, Vanessa and Margaret, and I learned to ride at the same time.
My husband, Rick, and I drove from Clarksville, Tennessee, to Oregon/Washington, where I would ride my test. It was a long drive, but my excitement made it go fast. I hadn’t ridden in a couple of years, so I was nervous about riding again and didn’t want to look ridiculous! I was able to ride Saundra, my friend Kristin Miller’s Norwegian Fjord mare, for a couple of days before my test. Once I got on, I felt comfortable in the saddle and was grateful for that time before the test. On May 17, we all drove to Olympia, Washington, to my friend (and judge) Anne Appleby’s farm.
My son, Sam, and his partner, Joe da Fonseca, came from Portland, Oregon, and my niece, Emelie Servin, came from Tumwater, Washington. My good friends Ursula Jensen and Wanda Gammel came from British Columbia, Canada, and my friend Jeri Froelich came from Snohomish, Washington. Anne Appleby was my judge for the ride and is an old friend. I used to scribe for her when I lived in Oregon.
It was a cloudy, rainy day, but a sunny patch appeared just in time for my ride. I felt so good about Saundra, and she was a gem. Any bobbles in the test were totally due to me. I felt so proud to give the final salute to the judge.
There was the ribbon and flowers, and a gold “100” balloon, along with champagne and snacks to celebrate.
My Century Club ride was definitely a high point in my life that I will always remember with joy and thanks giving. Sincere thanks to all who made this day possible: my husband Rick, my judge and friend Anne, and my friends Kristin and Rory, Ursula, Wanda, and Jeri.
