from the Green Mountain Horse Association

South Woodstock, VT — Green Mountain Horse Association in South Woodstock, Vermont, has suffered severe damage from flooding by Hurricane Irene. Since it was founded in 1926, GMHA has been instrumental in developing equestrian sports in all disciplines.

GMHA is probably the first place that Standardbred horses were included and welcomed in Combined Driving competition. Over 30 years ago owners were driving pairs of matched bay Standardbred geldings and wowing the crowd. Their easy gaits, gentle manners and fierce speed made them tough to beat in the obstacle and cross-country divisions. Sleigh bells chime every winter at the annual Sleigh Rally. No horse ever out trots a flashy Standardbred pulling a bright red cutter.

From those few pioneers the idea of a Standardbred Pleasure Horse Association was envisioned.

Now it is time for the harness racing community to help other horsemen in need. Log on to the website www.gmhainc.org to view the damage to the quaint facility.

You ask, ”How may I help them rebuild?”

The website has a list of ways to donate, volunteer or send supplies. The point person for fundraising and recovery efforts can be contacted via e-mail at Annie@straffordsaddleryshop.com.