Faced with the possibility of losing their only local GSDHJA recognized show, East County trainers and businesses have stepped up to save the East County Horseshow Organization (ECHO). When skyrocketing costs and the unchecked expansion of the Greater San Diego show calendar threatened to put ECHO, the county’s lowest cost and only not-for-profit show, out of business, trainers Amy Drinco, Katy Boswell, Darcy Edwards and Nancy Reed came to the rescue. Along with Stephanie Jensen, a local realtor and horse woman, these trainers have volunteered to take on the responsibilities of show set up, course design and fund raising. They also pledged to make ECHO attendance a priority for all of their barns.
The East County Horseshow Organization was established in 1996 by Katy Boswell. After the Cedar fire of 2003, Trish Watlington took over as manager. Since its inception the primary mission has been to meet the needs of junior and amateur riders who might not have other horse show opportunities due to finances, inexperience or distance.
Although ECHO draws all levels of riders and trainers, ECHO staff and judges make an extra effort to educate inexperienced riders and show parents. From hand holding to handouts and direct feedback from judges, the management endeavors to make ECHO more educational than a typical show.
ECHO also offers two programs to assist young riders who might not otherwise be able to afford to compete. The work/show cooperative program and the ECHO scholarship fund are available at each show to help worthy juniors nominated by a trainer.
New this year: “Pony Up! – Equestrians Giving Back” will launch its inaugural event at the May show. Founded by Chelsea Vexland, “Pony Up” will raise money for local therapeutic riding programs. The May event will be an Open Pleasure benefit class sponsored by Kelly Covey Training Stable. Exhibitors will solicit pledges instead of a class entry fee and every rider will receive a t-shirt for their participation. All pledges and a grant from ECHO will go to area riding programs for the handicapped.
With some wonderful new improvements, a smoothly run schedule, friendly staff, good food and camaraderie among all competitors, Trish and her staff look forward to a truly fun show season. Thanks to a little help from her friends and neighbors, 2007 should be better than ever. For more information about the East County Horseshow Organization, visit the website at www.echohorseshow.com.