Columbia riding academy students compete
By Kathy Blankenbecklor

Photo by Sug Kaiser Front row (l- r): Kaleb Kaiser and Erin Blankenbecklor. Back row (l- r): Evan Hamilton, Kathy Blankenbecklor, Mary Kateres, Raquel Hamilton (trainer), Ashlyn Hamilton, and Clark Blankenbecklor.

Columbia Riding Academy students of Hamilton Stables in Eastover participated in the 14th Annual Blue Ridge Classic Horse Show, July 24- 28, 2007.

The show held in Asheville, N.C. drew riders from all across the U.S.

In the Academy seven to eight year old walk/trot division, Erin Blankenbecklor, riding Beth, took fifth place in the equitation class and fourth in the showmanship class.

Kaleb Kaiser, riding Sultress, took home the fifth place ribbons in both his equitation and showmanship classes.

Showing in the 11- 13 year old division was Mary Kateres riding Sultress. She performed in both the equitation and showmanship classes.

Also riding Sultress, Kathy Blankenbecklor who took home two red ribbons for second place honors in both the adult walk/trot divisions of equitation and showmanship.

The riders train under Raquel and Brian Hamilton, and will participate next at the N.C. State Championship in Raleigh, N.C.