by Dale Fett
Horse riders had great weather for the fourth annual Thistle Down Run endurance ride near Frazee Aug. 14-15.
The rainy weather Thursday and Friday made marking the trails a challenge, but Saturday and Sunday brought out the sun to keep spirits up. Low humidity, cooler temps, and some wind dried out the trail making it perfect for riders and horses alike.
Minnesota riders made up the bulk of entries with riders also from North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois.
Canadian Rachel Hill made the trek southward and Hatham Albarrak from Dubai rode his first ride in America. This has made Thistle Down Run a true international event.
The only local rider, Teresa Fett placed second both Saturday and Sunday in the 25-mile event riding a different horse each day. Hawley's mother/daughter team of Char Tuhy and Jordanne Bruns took first and second in Saturday's 50-mile event.
Dale and Teresa Fett, ride managers, were allowed to use the farm of Scott and Lisa Piche as event headquarters along with the property of Les, Pat and Ron Kertscher. Veterinarians were Dr. Randall Lindemann of Frazee and Dr. Travis Kuhlka from New Salem, N.D.
Like most events, local volunteers are a key ingredient to be successful. Thanks to the following: Sandy Noonan as assistant ride manager, vet scribes Robin Holmer and Clio Jepson with assistance by Jordan Dretsch, Donna Fett at registration, Orlynn Hanson was official timer, and Joyce Vogler kept everyone fed with a steady supply of food. Troubleshooters Dennis Fett, Trevor Fett and Vinton Vogler took care of miscellaneous details to keep the event running smoothly.
Henry Gruber from Saint Cloud was on hand and took over 500 photos for viewing. These photos plus the complete results can be found at www.mndra.com along with information for anyone interested in horse endurance riding.
[full article at http://www.frazeeforum.com/main.asp?SectionID=18&SubSectionID=110&ArticleID=23580...]
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