M.A.R.E.S. History
The Beginning
The M.A.R.E.S. Club was founded in 1997 by Marti Coursin, who held the first meetings in her living room. Women participated in planned programs, as well as offered suggestions for future trips, topics, or interests.
Where We're At
The MARES Club had taken a hiatus in 2006 following a huge fundraising event which raised $43,000 for Three Gaits, a therapeutic riding center for children, youth and adults with disabilities and special needs. In September of 2007 we geared back up and are going strong with more years of education, new friendships, networking and fun.
With membership numbers high, representing women equestrians of all ages and disciplines, meetings are held at various venues, including area stables and training facilities, giving members opportunities to participate in hands-on activities as well as seminar-type gatherings. Those members who own horses can learn about resources available to them, current horse health related issues, various riding disciplines, and so much more. For those members who do not have their own horse there are lots of opportunities to interact with horses and get to know them better.
Here are a few of the activities M.A.R.E.S. members have enjoyed over the years:
Foaling Basics
Bits and Bridle Workshop
Basic Horse Training
Polo Clinic
Driving Clinic
Trial Rides (Most recently to Governor Dodge State Park)
Tack Sales
Veterinarian Care 101
Eastern and Western Medicine
Equine Insurance Issues
Winterizing Your Horse
Pilates for Equestrians
Jousting
Barrel Racing
Cross Country Jumping
Hippology and Therapeutic Riding Programs
Saddle Fitting
Chiropractic for the Rider
Braiding: Dressage & Hunter
Rider Etiquette for Trail, Ring, Show and Everyday Riding
Equine Nutrition
Feldenkrais for the Rider
Riding Sidesaddle
Farrier Clinic
An Afternoon of Eventing
Team Penning Workshop
Horses Throughout History
Horse Book and Video Review
The Dressage Technical Delegate
Trail and Endurance Riding
Preparation of the Horse for Professional Photography
The First-Time Horse Owner
Needs and Care of the Older Horse
UW Veterinary School Tour
Equine Massage that You Can Do
Creating a Musical Freestyle Program
Equine Lameness
Building a Barn on a Budget
Chiropractic for Horses
Our Future
You, the members, will help to determine where we go from here. We welcome ideas for future meetings and input from our members. Be an active member of the club, contact us and give us your ideas!