31 According to Reese’s mother, Tammy Franqueiro, riding meshes with her daughter’s personality. The horseback riding world is a place where Reese thrives. “Reese is a very active kid,” Tammy said. “She doesn’t like to just sit around. She’s very determined when she decides she wants to do something.” On the day of a show, “it’s like Christmas morning for her, she’s so excited,” Tammy said. Hallie Nelson Her coach, Niki, describes Hallie, a ��fth grader who is home-schooled, as always cheerful and smiling. “She carries her joy and passion into the show ring, making a perfect picture with Casper,” Pasley said. “In her lessons, she welcomes challenges.” For Hallie, her love for horses and riding started at age three, when she began lessons. “From the ��rst time she rode, she was hooked,” said her mother Stacy Nelson. “She had a passion for horses as soon as she could comprehend them.” About Hallie’s white pony Casper (whom Hallie sometimes adorns with a unicorn horn), Stacy said: “I don’t think there’s ever been a pony more loved by a little girl.” When Casper hears Hallie’s voice - or even her car pulling up to the stable - his ears perk up, which is a sign of happiness, and he sticks his head out of his stall to ��nd her. Watching Hallie rub her cheek against Casper’s head and feed him his favorite treat, Lifesavers, it’s apparent the duo has a strong bond. “I like interacting with animals,” Hallie said. “You get to know their personalities. You ��nd out what they’re like and what they like.” According to Stacy, animals connect with her daughter immediately. “Hallie’s probably got the sweetest soul of any girl you’ve ever seen,” Stacy said. “As a rider, she’s more concerned about Casper and how he’s doing than if she’s winning.” Horse Sense Part of what Hallie’s and Reese’s parents love about Equisports is the fact that their girls have not only learned to ride horses, they have learned to care for them. The girls help their trainer out with bathing, feeding and watering the horses. When they come to ride, they groom the horses, put on all their gear (saddle, bridle, etc.) and cool off their horses with the hose afterward. According to Hallie’s mom, Stacy, helping to care for the horses allows her daughter to spend quality time with the animals and bond with them. It also teaches her compassion, respect and responsibility. Reese’s mom, Tammy, agrees. “It’s a good life lesson, teaching her responsibility,” Tammy said. “Horses are animals that need to be respected and taken care of. It’s a privilege to be able to ride.”
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