Archive for the ‘Megan Cantrell’ Category
Home Away From Home
Ava, its my home away from home. Its a place I come to twice a year to gather with great friends and spend lots of quality time with my family. I have came here ever since I was born and enjoy every minute of it. Some of my greatest memories have occurred down here. During the summer we have what we call our “horse show family.” We show, compete against each other, and just chill on some weekend trail rides. I could call them up at anytime and they would be here for me. I have lots of second sets of parents. There is always some one helping someone else. That’s what makes Ava so great!
One of my greatest memories from Ava was when I won the first ever Youth Eleven and under World Grand Championship. I had been showing for years before that but always had to show back with the older kids and they always beat us young ones. Ava decided to give everyone a fair shot and let the eleven and under have there own championship! I was ready and determined! My sister Anna had been showing her that year but mom talked to her and she agreed to let me show her. I was excited! Dad was having me practice and mom would give me pep talks! The morning of the day came and I woke up in a good mood! On my way to the barn many wished me luck and told me they would be cheering for me! I got to the warm up arena and “Tilly” was looking good. Dad pulled me in and said “Meg, you go out there and ride this mare like I know you can!”
Up the ramp I go, ready and determined to win this class! The first way I was taking a pretty good ride, but I knew everyone else was too. When they called for the reverse dad said I would have to push her on or I wasn’t going to win. So, here I went kicking with all I had to push her on. They called for the trot and we where off! The butterflies in my stomach where going crazy. I pushed with all I had every step Tilly took in the arena I had someone cheering me on! They called for the walk and the line up. I was waiting anxiously for them to tally the results. Bob came over those loud speakers and said, “In first place is Silver Dollar Tilly C!”
I just about jumped off my horse. My family came running out for the picture and started hugging me! When I took my victory lap I had a smile on my face from ear to ear!
That is an experience from my Home Away from Home that I will definitely never forget!
