Event Attracts Positive Responses

Horsemanship Clinic

With the encouragement of positive feedback, a horsemanship clinic was conducted through Creator’s Games as part of the Wadopana Celebration on Thursday, Aug. 1.

Carrie Manning, organizer of the event, said youngsters expressed that they wanted more horse activities when evaluations were conducted at the end of previous years.

“We want to re-introduce horses to our youth and our communities,” Manning said.

She added that horses are very cultural significant to Native Americans.

Manning noted that the Creator’s Game event was started in 2017.

“It’s regarded as best practices by the State of Montana,” Manning said.

Instructors during the program, which took place in near 100-degree temperatures, included Emma Gourneau, Clarice Smoker, the Spotted Birds, James Holen and Dustin Hunsaker.

“We’re grateful they are willing to share their knowledge with the youth,” Manning said.

Supporters of the clinic included the Spotted Bull Recovery and Resource Center, Fort Peck Community College, Native Connections, the Nakoda Dakota Oyate Youth Council and Volunteers of America.

Manning explained the NDO youth council served as mentors during the horsemanship clinic.

“That’s how we turn them into leaders,” Manning said.

Stetson Holen, 9, was excited to be one of the riders during the event. He said he has attended clinics many times.

“I like to ride every day,” Holen said.

Additional horse clinics are scheduled in Poplar on Aug. 18, Fort Kipp on Aug. 22 and Poplar on Aug. 29.