Glen Vienneau
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Apr 26/00) - Yellowknifers interested in saddling up will now be able to ride their way into the sunset thanks to the new Aurora Horse Association.

The association has recently formed and will serve as the first official horse club in the NWT.

Anne Wilson, club treasurer and founding member, said so far the association has 15 members.

The association, Wilson noted, isn't just for experienced riders but will also offer those interested in horses a chance to take part in riding activities.

"That's why we call it a horse association and not riding association, because people don't have to be riders," said Wilson.

The club's goals are to offer educational activities pertaining to horses, enhance riding opportunities in the NWT and to promote the pursuit of safe horsemanship as well as the advancement of good horse care throughout the NWT, said Wilson.

One of the association's assets will be the use of a recently constructed commercial riding stable owned by Yellowknife veterinarian Dr. Tom Pisz.

"All the horses are well looked after," said club member Debra Davis, who adds having a veterinarian at the stable will assure club members that the horses will have access to medical treatment when needed.

Dr. Pisz has been a veterinarian in Yellowknife for the past 13 years.

The club will be making use of the North Country Stables behind Pisz' home on Highway 3 past the airport. It was completed two-and-a-half years ago.

Since the opening of the stables, riders have had the opportunity to develop basic riding skills, said Wilson, adding, the stables have grown to house 11 horses and six boarders.

"Riders have gained enough experience to go beyond basic beginners lessons and take part in activities.

"It means an interest towards the horse riding sport. We definitely welcome it (the club)," said Dr. Pisz.

Through the association experienced riders will now be able to organize various activities including an upcoming barbecue at Long Lake with games and activities, trail rides, advanced horse care teachings, seminars and a spring manure sale. The next meeting will be a video evening on May 27.

Yellowknifers may also see riders in the streets as they prepare their horses for the roads, traffic and people for the Canada Day Parade.

Other association members are Stephanie Laversin, who will serve as first president, Marilee Prues as vice-president and Catherine Holmes as secretary.