Howdy All!
It has been a very busy week since our arrival here in Grande Prairie, Alberta at Evergreen Park race track. With only days left to prepare for our first night of Chuckwagon racing, a phone call had come, asking if Rick and I, and “Team 23” were available to have a young 10-year-old boy come and visit us at our barn for a tour of the ponies down on the grounds. The date was set.
A handsome boy named Hinton
Sunday morning arrived, and one very excited young boy arrived at 7 AM.
Mom Robyn and Hinton
Mom Robyn tagged along too. Horses are not new to Hinton, as his family has a few horses on the family farm. This young lad also belongs to a local club, called PARDS (Peace Area Riding for the Disabled). PARDS is a society that is committed to providing high quality Equine Assisted Therapy to individuals. It maximizes their growth and potential; physically cognitively, behavioraly and socially, through equine assisted programs and activities. His heart lies near and dear to the majestic equine animal.
A look down the shed row
Hinton also brought along his Riding mentor Nancy to join in his chuckwagon experience.
One Special Hand Shake
The time arrived to meet the driver. It was exciting for both of them.
Hinton wanted to meet all the horses in the shed row. And that he did. We took him one by one, and introduced him to them all. And then it was time to get to work. We had to harness 4 horses and take them out for an exercise run.
Adjusting the equipment
Securing the headstall
Adjusting the bit
“Team 23” got right to work, brushing and harnessing the four that needed to go. While we were busy preparing for the run, Hinton was quickly making friends with some of the other horses down the way.
A Special Bond
It really is amazing, to step back and see the connection between a child and a horse. The horse senses the openness, sincerity and gentleness of the little ones.
We are one
This was so touching to watch Hinton go on his own to do this. The communication is there, and no words are spoken.
The time had come, and we decided that Hinton could ride out to the track with Rick in the Chuckwagon. Hinton was elated! He kept his emotions under control as he didn’t want to disturb the horses.
Watching from the sidelines
Hinton had a front row view watching Rick come into the barrels for his practice run.
And Away They Go!!!
The horn sounded, the horses jumped forward with a leap and a bounce, around the figure eight and away they went!
Unharnessing the ponies
Back at the barn, the equipment comes off and into the pen they go to cool down, roll in the sand and quench their thirst with fresh cool water.
One More Surprise Hinton
We weren’t done yet!!! We had a few surprises for Hinton to send him on his way.
Would this fit you?
Biggest Smile Ever
A t-shirt, a poster, and a mini chuckwagon too. The reaction of this little boy Hinton, touched our hearts more than you can imagine. This particular morning, a little boy came into our lives and reminded us that life can be so simple. We just need to stop and take the time to see, touch and take in, all that is around us and always look at the world through the eyes of a child.
The Best Gift Ever
Forever Friends
And at the end of the day, this all took place, because it was only a phone call away.
From the Travelin Trailer
Sue with Rick and “Team 23”
Sue
P.S. The law of LOVE could best be understood and learned through little children.
Ghandi
Your team has always been so good with all kids, keep up the good work as I know Hinton will never forget this day with you
Such a heart warming story! Team “23” touches so many lives.
So wonderful that you took time out of your busy schedules to make this little man’s dream come true. He will remember it forever! Your kindness is truly exceptional.
What a day well spent by TEAM 23
You and Rick are two of the most generous, kind and good hearted people. Good luck in GP this year to all the Fraser family, I’ll be listening in and cheering you on. Take care and hopefully I’ll stop by Ponoka and say hi.
You Guys with Team 23 ROCK!!!!!!!
That is so amazing what you folks do in the chuckwagon world To special kids Awesome reading. Thanks Sue.
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Best day ever!! We want to return the favour next year when the PARDs therapy Centre is in full swing!
Thank you so much! He is a real gem!
Oh Sue what you and Rick and crew did for Hinton was so emotional for you all and me too, awesome <3
My heart swells and tears run down my cheeks, Team 23 and Mr. Chuckwagon make miracles happen! Hinton will never forget his special day with you guys! I wish more people would take the time and the patience to make a difference in someone’s life like you guys do! Bless you and I’ll be cheering you on in a little while. Good Luck to all!
Sue, on my brother’s passing in 2009, he left a donation to PARDS
Karen
Thank you for this story. Touched very close to home, we have a special needs grandson and children are the best. Wishing you a successful season.