Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania National Horse Show is privileged to host the LifeVac Therapeutic Riding Championships each year as part of the PNHS Foundation’s “Foundation Friday.” 

Established in 1999, the PNHS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports equine rescue and therapeutic riding programs, with annual Foundation grants allowing for scholarships for therapy students, care for therapy horses and equipment for horses and riders and much more. 

Friday’s LifeVac Therapeutic Championship riders each qualified for the PNHS by competing in shows throughout the summer at Friendly Horseman’s Club, Walnut Grove Farms and Columbia Riding Club.

During the Championship, riders competed at the walk and trot. Riders in the assisted walk class could have leaders for their mounts and side-walkers if needed. Riders in the unassisted walk/trot class performed without help.

In the walk class, Brendan Budd earned top honors, and in the walk/trot class it was Emily Smith who took the top call.

The 2022 PNHS Foundation Therapy Horse of the Year Award, sponsored by Susan Harmon, was awarded to Walnut Grove Therapeutic Center’s Slam Dunk or “Duncan.”