Lake Metroparks unveils plans for upcoming HorseFest

The public is invited to be transported to a time when horses were vital to transportation, working livestock and power on the farm during HorseFest presented by Ken Ganley Chrysler Painesville from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 21 and 22, at Lake Metroparks Farmpark.

“HorseFest is an opportunity to see various breeds and take part in some Old West traditions,” Farmpark Assistant Administrator Steve Ohmes stated in a news release. “Folks can experience the importance of the animals first-hand and see originally how useful they were to us.”

Chris “the Whip Guy” Camp will showcase his talents with tricks and demonstrations. For over 20 years, Camp has performed his daring, high-energy show filled with stunts, history, physics and lots of lighthearted humor and fun around the country and has been seen on popular TV programs including America’s Got Talent and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, the release stated.

Attendees also can watch riders of all ages compete in an obstacle course and demonstrate the skill and trust between the horse and rider.

Returning this year is the Canadian Governor General’s Horse Guards Cavalry Squadron who will demonstrate the expertise of the riders as they command their horses during their Skill Games and Training. The Horse Guards, a reserve regiment of volunteer citizen-soldiers whose illustrious history dates from 1822, has been serving Canada continuously since the Second World War.

Attendees also can meet characters from the West and watch reenactments of scenes from the past featuring Annie Oakley and a Wild West Jail Break by Sam and Kellie Rittenger from Whispery Pines Percherons.

Visitors also can take the reins and drive a draft horse with the assistance of staff.

The hands-on activity area will feature roping and games, and multiple learning opportunities will be offered as well.

Youths will be able to groom and drive a miniature horse and pose for horse-related photo ops and more.

Pony rides will be available for $6 each, weather permitting.

For event information, visit http://goto.lakemetroparks.com/horsefest.

Farmpark admission, $6 to $8 applies though Farmpark members, children under 2 and active military and their families receive free admission.

Lake Metroparks Farmpark is located at 8800 Euclid Chardon Road in Kirtland.

NEWS-HERALD FILE PHOTO A team of Jefferson-based breeder Hand-Forged Belgians’ Belgian Draft Horses makes a turn in the Lake Metroparks’ Farmpark Arena during a past Horsefest.