Patriotic Display at Sun Circuit During Inaugural Heroes On Horses Event

By: Brittany Bevis

A spectacular patriotic display filled The Equine Chronicle arena at the Arizona Sun Circuit yesterday as countless American flags waved in honor of our U.S. military veterans. The inaugural NSBA Foundation Heroes On Horses event took place in The Equine Chronicle Arena and kicked off with a luncheon at 11:00 am, a Parade of Heroes at 11:30 am, and the Heroes on Horses competition shortly thereafter. In a symbolic gesture, a riderless horse, with boots reversed in the stirrups, was led around the arena to serve as a reminder of fallen soldiers.

Scottsdale based, LHM Financial, hosted the outdoor luncheon prior to the event. The financial services company is owned by longtime NSBA non-pro, Chris Lagerblade. “Being able to invite local Arizona residents to be part of this great event is a way for us to support both the Sun Circuit and NSBA in our local community. What better way to enjoy a sunny Phoenix day than having lunch outdoors and recognizing our veterans,” Lagerblade said.

Earlier this month, the NSBA announced a three-year commitment from the Bob and Ingrid Miller Family of Mesa, Arizona that will allow the Heroes On Horses program to expand into the Western United States and to be hosted as part of the 2022 – 2024 Arizona Sun Circuit. “The Miller Family donation is an important milestone to meeting the goal to establish and expand the outreach to veterans beyond its current format at the NSBA World Championship Show and All American Quarter Horse Congress,” NSBA said.

“It is our vision that this financial support will bring additional awareness to the ‘Model of Inclusion’ the NSBA embodies by including veterans who participate in therapeutic riding programs across the country. My husband, Bob, and I feel this is a small way our family can say thank you to the brave men and women whose service and sacrifice allows us the freedom to enjoy and love our show horses” said Ingrid Miller, exhibitor, and lifetime member of the NSBA.

Heroes On Horses is funded as a special project of the NSBA Foundation. For more information about the program, click here.

Scroll below for more great photos from the event, courtesy of Kristin Spinning.