Tucked away in a cozy box-stall, nuzzled in dry hay, and munching on crispy treats from his extensive fan-base, lays Houghton Equestrian Center’s most prized possession—the 2014 Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) School Horse of the Year, Pumpkin.
The CHA’s Horse of the Year Program is meant to “honor the animals that spend countless hours being patient with new and experienced riders.” Pumpkin has honored this requirement–exceeding expectations and performing with unique personality.
Pumpkin is a 22-year-old Haflinger horse, small in stature and mighty in spirit. He has served as a faithful member of the Houghton College lesson herd since he was donated to the college at the age of five. His chestnut base coat blends him with the autumn landscape and is complimented by a pure white strip that rests down the center of his face. What Pumpkin lacks in height, he makes up for with a sturdy physique built to comfortably hold each rider he meets.
It is Pumpkin’s glowing demeanor that really draws in his fans. “As an instructor in a barn full of horses he is always my first choice,” said equestrian program director, Jo-Anne Young. “Five CHA conference attendees sidled up to me to say that they had purchased an extra plane ticket home so they could take Pumpkin with them! Obviously they were joking, but it is an indication of how quickly that special Haflinger builds his fan club with his sweet personality!”
At the age of 22 (69 in human years), he shows no signs of retirement, continuing his service to riders with cheerful willingness. He shows his riders patience, allowing them to build confidence in their abilities. Like a grandfather ushering a child to his lap to read a story, Pumpkin has an inviting way of putting riders at ease, welcoming any skill level or saddle to his back.
“He’s a favorite because he is so predictable and consistent,” said junior equestrian minor Hannah Henry, “he always seems to be aware of the rider’s safety.”
This semester Henry is working with horsemanship student, Christina Moore, and Pumpkin—brushing him, tacking him for riding, and running/walking beside them to give direction. Because Moore has impaired eyesight it is important that she can trust the animals she is working with. “Pumpkin is so sweet with her and always does what she asks and would never try anything dirty to throw her off or trick her,” said Henry.
Pumpkin is also willing to collaborate with advanced riders, showing western styled riders how to do sophisticated maneuvers like soaring over course jumps. He performs with patience while riders practice a new move–allowing them to try, and try again, but also has the sophistication and experience to execute a maneuver with ease once his rider gets it. He can gallop 400 meters per minute on a cross-country course, light on his feet, and thoughtfully navigating through rocky terrain.
Among his favorite activities of being a lesson horse are pulling the meadowbrook cart, being pampered with love and affection, and being rewarded with treats to which he responds with an approving exhale or delighted whinny. “I’ve been working with horses all my life and I’ve never met a horse who loves his job as much as Pumpkin,” said, senior, Jalene Amling.
“You could truthfully say he is worth his weight in gold to us! It was an honor and a great pleasure to have him recognized as the 2014 CHA School Horse of the Year,” said Young.