The sun shone brightly for the Friends of the Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard (2GHG) Spring Trail Ride, Your Horses — Our Trails, and Challenge Course Fundraiser, held May 7, at 4 Wildlife Lane.

A joint fundraising event organized by troopers of 2GHG and members of the Newtown Bridle Lands Association (NBLA), the event welcomed 31 riders and their horses who enjoyed a leisurely stroll along wooded trails known as the Enchanted Forest and grassy fields of the beautiful Catherine Hubbard Sanctuary.

At the completion of the trail ride, riders seeking a bit more adventure were invited to participate in a challenge course designed by members of the NBLA. Various fun obstacles and maneuvers designed to draw the curiosity and test the skills of both the rider and their horse were set up in a large grassy paddock. Riders opened a mailbox, pulled a wagon, manipulated hula hoops, and even coaxed a stuffed fox out of his burrow. The bravery of the horses was challenged by these maneuvers as well as by dancing balloons and scary tarps.

As an added bonus, Corey McDonough of Silver Tree Saddlery was on-site throughout the day offering saddle fitting appointments at a discounted rate. A Smith Worthington Mystic A319 saddle, donated by Silver Tree Saddlery, was one of two wonderful items on-site available as raffle prizes. Laurie Hollywood was the lucky winner of the beautiful saddle.

“The day was a huge success, with smiling riders stating that they look forward to returning to the property in October for the annual Horse Guard Fall Pleasure ride, a timed-event where ribbons will be offered to the teams with the best-timed rides,” noted Corporal Melanie Bonjour, 2GHG fundraising chairperson.

The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard is an all-volunteer unit of the organized state militia. The 2GHG participates in ceremonial functions and service programs throughout Connecticut and at its Newtown facility to promote Connecticut’s rich history. Search 2GHG to learn more or follow them on Facebook.

The Newtown Bridle Lands Association is a nonprofit volunteer organization formed in 1978 to foster an interest in horseback riding as well as preserving, protecting and maintaining riding and hiking trails in the community. Join today to enjoy NBLA members-only trails as well as many free events such as group trail rides and educational talks. Applications and more information is available at nblact.org.

Your Horses — Our Trails is organized for the benefit of and sponsored by the Friends of the Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.