A Mission horse has been named the 2016 Horse of the Year.
In November, Horse Council of B.C. president Liz Saunders presented the award to Sandra Mudry, owner of the winning horse, named Benjamin.
This award recognizes a horse that was born and raised in B.C. and used in any form of non-competitive activity (such as school horse or retired competitor).
Benjamin was born in the Hatzic Prairie area of Mission approximately 30 years ago. He was a spunky little dark bay horse with a beautiful white blaze, four white socks and just enough white spots in inconspicuous areas to confirm his heritage – a POA/TB cross.
Benjamin spent an impressive 20 years teaching riders with and without disabilities to ride, before retiring back to Mission, where he served as the stable’s “receptionist/stable greeter” until he sadly passed away earlier this year.
Throughout his life, Benjamin impacted many lives, capturing the hearts of his riders, their parents and the riding school staff. He had incredible patience, standing perfectly still in the cross ties so that riders could gain confidence with him on the ground before getting into the saddle.
He responded perfectly to instructor commands, making him the perfect therapeutic riding horse.
Benjamin’s life was full of giving and teaching and in return he was loved and spoiled by many.
Because of Benjamin’s outstanding impact on so many lives, the Horse Council was proud to honour him with the 2016 Horse of the Year Award.