Kathi Roof and Light The Lights (FL)
Team #888: Kathi Roof and Light The Lights
From: Geneva, Florida
Ages: 75 & 28
Combined Age: 103
Test: Introductory Level Test C
On March 14, 2025, at the Ocala Winter II USEA Horse Trials at the Florida Horse Park, Kathi Roof and her Quarter Horse Paint gelding Light the Lights—affectionately known as Chico—marked a remarkable milestone by joining the Century Club. Their successful completion of a dressage test, judged by Wayne Quarles, earned them a place in this prestigious group.
Chico’s story is one of quiet heroism. A veteran eventer whose career began in 2003 in Texas. He has competed in more than 76 USEA-recognized events, safely guiding riders through Beginner Novice and Novice levels. Chico came into Kathi’s life in 2016, and the pair moved to Florida in 2020. Though now retired, Chico remains full of personality, spending his days grazing and indulging in his favorite pastime: rolling in the sand.
Kathi is equally accomplished outside the arena. A lifelong horsewoman, she’s also a talented musician, performing as a flutist in both a Veteran Band and a flute choir. Her creativity extends to sewing, and her love for family is evident as she happily spends time chauffeuring her grandchild. Despite the demands of retirement, Kathi continues to support the equestrian community by serving as secretary at USEA events in Tennessee, Kansas, Wisconsin, and Texas.
Together, Kathi and Chico exemplify the essence of the Century Club—experience, dedication, and the enduring bond between horse and rider. Their story is an inspiring reminder that the journey in dressage is a lifelong celebration of partnership and passion.
