Aaron Ralston takes the reins at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo
Posted on Mon, March 07, 2011
DENVER - Aaron Ralston an international reining superstar and a committed ranching professional who prides himself on celebrating and promoting the traditions of the working cowboy.
So when headliner Jonathan Field had to regretfully cancel his participation at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo due to injuries he suffered in a recent car accident, Ralston offered to take the reins.
"I was so sorry to hear Jonathan wouldn't be able to make it to the Expo, but I'm really pleased I can step in and help," Ralston said. "I'm really proud to be part of a community that comes together to work toward our common goal - creating more and better horsemen and horse women."
Ralston, a Colorado native, led Team USA to a gold medal in reining at the 2006 World Equestrian Games on Smart Paul Olena. He hosts "The Ride," featured on RFD-TV and produced by Cow Horse Productions, which chronicles major equine events, profiles ranches and showcases various riding disciplines.
"We deeply appreciate Aaron's willingness to step up his role on very short notice just days before the Expo kicks off," said Bill Scebbi, executive director of the Colorado Horse Council. "We wish Jonathan a speedy recovery, and we look forward to his return to future Expos."
Ralston will host a pre-Expo horsemanship clinic previously scheduled for Field on Thursday, March 10 at the National Western Complex, which will lead into three more days of education and fun for horse enthusiasts.
Daytime events include clinics and presentations on riding, driving, horsemanship, equine health and more March 11-13. More than 200 vendors will fill the tradeshow floor. Artists will display their works in Equine Art in the Park. A miniature horse show will run throughout the weekend, as will a holistic horse health fair. Friday and Saturday night Mane Event performances will begin at 7 p.m., and will feature solo acts, team demonstrations and more. Daytime entry is $7; the Mane Event is $10.
For more information, visit the event's website, YouTube Channel and Facebook page or contact Scebbi.