Therapeutic Riding Association of VA
(TRAV) Fall Horse Show

Mason Berry & Valentine, and Kim Buseman & Sir Ector, traveled to Lexington, VA to represent Lift Me Up! at the TRAV Horse Show. Mason and Kim were accompanied by their coaches, cheerleaders and supporters: Barbara Hattwick; Kerry Longenecker; Colleen Zanin; Mary Sitnik; Mary Jo Beckman; and Mason's mom, Laura Beaty. Kim and Mason each competed in several events, winning many ribbons including a blue ribbon for each.

It was a very successful and enjoyable experience for all involved. Lift Me Up! is proud that Mary Jo Beckman served as Secretary of the TRAV Show. Mason and Valentine won a blue ribbon in the Futures class and were stars in the Costume class as ballerinas. Mason was pretty in pink and all eyes were focused on all 1000 pounds of Valentine in her pink tutu, veil, and leggings. She was a sight to behold!! Kim and Sir Ector won a blue ribbon in the Dressage class. That was Kim's first Dressage competition and the arena was silent as Ector responded perfectly to Kim's lead. After Kim's final nod to the judge, the crowd broke into applause and Ector knew that he is one special pony. Kim and Mason thank Barbara and Kerry for their help and patience during hours of training and practice.    

Lift Me Up! thanks Mary Sitnik for her continual care and love for the horses. Mary worked very hard to keep Valentine and Ector fit and happy during the events. Thanks also go to Bill Buseman for transporting the horses to Lexington, to Mason's mom for designing and sewing the costumes for Mason and Valentine, and to the Berry family for their generous support toward the expenses. This is the first time Lift Me Up! was represented at the TRAV Show in Lexington. We hope that it will become a regular event.