Manila rider qualifies for state

Dalton Hitchcock and his buckskin pony, Sparkie, placed third in the NEA Horse Show Association (HSA) in Jonesboro. Dalton, eight year old son of Brad and Paige Hitchcock of Manila, has been riding horses since he was four and competing the last two years.

His third place win was in the 6-10 year old Western Pleasure Pony Division. Dalton and Sparky qualified to participate in the upcoming state horseshow at Barton Coliseum in Little Rock. The state show will be held on Labor Day weekend.

Dalton is excited about his first time to ride in a state show. There will be about 50 to 60 riders and horses in his age division from across the state. He will be representing the NEA Association and Manila.

He enjoys being part of the NEA HSA and has made a lot of friends through his riding. The season begins in March and ends in August and most Saturdays he can be found in the arena in Jonesboro.

Dalton also enjoys riding the horses around the pasture and trail rides. He has another pony he rides in the speed events. Dalton said the speed events are his favorite.

Attending the shows and caring for the horses is a family activity. His younger sister, Madison, 3, also enjoys riding and competing. She won third place in the lead line division at Jonesboro.

Dalton plans on competing in some fall shows but will be ready to start back with the NEA HSA in March.