Started in 1963, the Union County Saddle Club serves Union County and the surrounding area. Sara Fraker, Vice President and Show Committee Chair, says their goal is to “provide low cost, family friendly horse shows and clinics. We raise funds for local charities and provide opportunities for people to meet and experience horses.” 

They currently run seven shows a year including three English shows, three Western shows, and a Halloween fun and games show.  The Saddle Club teaches responsibility and to put others first, be it animals or people.  The kids also learn good horsemanship and sportsmanship through horseback riding lessons and shows.

The shows that the Union County Saddle Club holds are all open shows which mean you don’t have to be a member to show.  Their most recent show, a Western, Gaited and Ranch Show, was held on Saturday, September 9, 2017.

“I have a lot of kids who show here.  I’ve been showing here since I was 8.  Today, I brought 13 kids,” said Dominque Morrison, owner of Honeysuckle Riding Academy.  “It is a relaxed and great place for beginner kids to come and show in a supportive environment. We bring school horses and everyone is treated the same.” 

The Saddle Club offers Champion and Reserve year end awards for each division for riders who show at two or more shows a year.  They hold a banquet in November to announce the winners. Prizes vary year to year and are donated by sponsors including Monroe Hardware, Waxhaw Tack Exchange, Carolina Country Store, Mane Street Horse and Pet Supply.  Previous awards have included saddle pads, belt buckles, halters, and blankets which are embroidered by Kim’s Kreations.  

Another one of the goals of the Saddle Club is to provide shows that offer educational experiences for the club members.  Members sit on the show committee as well as work various parts of the show including the in-gate, handing out ribbons, and working with the judge as a ring steward. The judges at the show will take the time to talk to the exhibitors about their patterns and rides so that the kids can grow and do better in their next class. The Saddle Club also offers various riding and safety clinics.  On October 21, they will be holding a Trailer Safety Clinic at the show grounds.  This doesn’t just apply to horse trailers but will also cover general trailer safety.   Topics will include: Which side of the trailer should you haul a single horse; What to look for in a used trailer; Preventative maintenance and suggested maintenance schedules.  You do not need to be a member to attend but pre-registration is required.  The cost will be $50 for the day and includes lunch. 

It’s easy to join the Union County Saddle Club, you just need to attend two meetings and help out at an event.  Meetings are held on a Monday towards the beginning of each month at the Union County Saddle Club grounds.  More information and registration can be found at unioncountysaddleclub.com or Facebook on the Union County Saddle Club Fan Page. 

Show grounds are located at 204 E Sandy Ridge Rd, Monroe, North Carolina