Giddyup, Cowgirls: Four Participate in Spring Break Western Riding Camp

A vision of Trustee Emerita Povy LaFarge Bigbee ‘51 G’ 03, ’09, ’10, ’11 and family, this “cowgirl camp” allowed Beverly Kucera ‘25, Madeline Parris ‘27, Sophia Richards-Cordell ‘27, and Lainey Risley ‘26 to gain hands-on experience at Armstrong Equine Services.

“Povy really wanted to benefit the Riding Program in a meaningful way. A neighbor of Armstrong Equine Services, together they brainstormed the idea of a ‘cowgirl camp’ so Chatham Hall girls could experience a different type of riding and discipline while continuing to strengthen their horsemanship skills,” said Director of Riding Ally Doyon.  

Interested riders expressed a desire to participate through an application process. Selection was based on individual interest, riding experience, and how they would bring back what they learned to the Chatham Hall community. Four riders were chosen to participate in this pilot-year program.

During their trip from March 24-29, the four riders learned about western riding, cattle work, roping, branding, breeding and husbandry, and much more. 

“Through this experience, I wanted our riders to gain a greater understanding of what horsemanship means in all different disciplines while appreciating how horses can be a way of life in certain areas of our country. What they’re going to take away from the trip can be applied across the board,” Doyon said.

“The ranch had so many things to offer, and I had so many great experiences. The people there were the most inviting and loving I have ever met,” said Parris. “I think this was a valuable trip for me as a rider in getting more confident in a different riding style. It also helped me gain confidence with people who I have never met before and traveling to places I have never been.”

The cowgirls also spent time with the Bigbee family learning about New Mexico  geography, history, and culture. In particular, they learned about homesteading, agriculture, and significant legislative acts. Furthermore, Joe Armstrong took the group to visit the New Mexico State University Horse Farm where Joby Priest gave them an overview of their program. Family members Sam and Diane Calhoun P'03, '09, '11 graciously provided accommodations for the riders for the week including an evening of s’mores around the fire pit with fireworks courtesy of Susannah Calhoun ‘09.  

“We’re so grateful to Povy and John Bigbee and their family for helping facilitate this experience,” added Chief Advancement Officer Christine Knight P’19, who also traveled to New Mexico. “It’s important to surround yourself with strong women, and this trip provided that experience for our students which underscores the value of our greatest asset: our alumnae and family network.”

See more pictures from the trip on the School’s SmugMug.