Washington County Enterprise-Leader
Regulators Then And Now
DRILL TEAM TO PERFORM DURING LINCOLN RODEO
LINCOLN — During her three years as a member of the Rhinestone Cowgirls, a precision drill team based out of Siloam Springs, a dream took hold deep within Hannah Sanders.
Sanders grew up in Lincoln and maintains membership in Lincoln Riding Club. Developing a precision drill team seemed a natural extension to promote LRC and Lincoln Rodeo. Popularity soared for area groups of cowgirl riders performing stunts on horseback with the Rounders representing Springdale’s Rodeo of the Ozarks and another Northwest Arkansas drill team, the Sky High Angels, filming performances for motion pictures in 2014.
The vision she labored to bring to reality, along with Lincoln Riding Club members Marlana Edgmon and Megan Anderson, entailed so much more.
The trio believed a precision drill team would empower LRC, which hosts the annual Lincoln Rodeo, to showcase its members’ horsemanship skills. They found the parent organization receptive to the idea so the trio founded the group in 2013 with the blessing of Lincoln Riding Club.
“A few of us in Rhinestone Cowgirls thought we have been at it long enough to learn the ropes,” Sanders stated in a June 11, 2014 interview, marking the first time ‘the Regulators’ performed at the Lincoln Rodeo. “I’ve always wanted to have one in Lincoln and Lincoln so graciously gave us a home and an opportunity.”
The initiative was well received within the community. Sanders reported sponsors of all kinds came together quickly. In its infant stages, the group became so busy getting organized and practicing they simply didn’t have time to schedule everything they wanted to do.
Community Involvement
Four years later, ‘The Regulators’ have been able to bring their vision to fruition by involving surrounding communities reaching out to those curious about equine bio mechanics, precision riding, and equine therapy. This spring the drill team hosted a two day equine event billed as a “double dose of learning and fun” April 28–29 at the Courage Therapeutic Riding Center, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization located in Prairie Grove.
Working in conjunction with Kirk Davis, certified equine massage therapist, the group put on an equine bio mechanics clinic. On day one, participants worked to fix problem issues, were instructed in bio mechanics, and focused on their horse. The event was limited to five participants at $150 each.
A special performance by ‘The Regulators’ demonstrating a show the precision drill team would perform at a rodeo concluded the first day.
On day two a mixed package of “hands-on” equine events were offered. Participants could choose between a private hour equine massage and wellness spots conducted by Davis through appointment; or training that included riding with ‘The Regulators’ simulating a drill team exercise to enable riders to experience detailed precision horseback riding. That training was made available for beginners and advanced riders of all ages.
A 3.5 hour session dubbed the ‘Little Regulator’ camp was held for beginners and first-timers, who were given the option of purchasing a T-shirt.
During this same time slot other members of ‘The Regulators’ offered drill pattern lessons at $20-an-hour for one lesson. The purpose was to teach interested riders proper precision drill techniques using ‘Regulator’ horses owned by the drill team. This session was restricted to advanced riders only, those with a basic proficiency in walking, trotting, and cantering. Helmets were required for all riders.
The event included a special appearance and photo opportunity for participants to get their picture taken with ‘Bullseye The Bull Fighter.’
Crew members from the center’s staff answered questions about equine assisted activities and how individuals can become involved with Courage Therapeutic Riding Center.
The purpose of the two-day clinic was to generate a positive impact within the community through equine assisted activities and therapies.
Edgmon said the event had a good turnout and accomplished goals that were part of the original plans in forming ‘The Regulators.’
“We did it to raise money for the Courage Therapeutic Riding Center,” Edgmon said. “Since this is year five (for ‘The Regulators’), we have been able to be more interactive with our fans as well as being able to put that clinic on. We want to put on more and be able to help out local charities. We are all about the kiddos and any way we can to help.”