Tina Wilhonen

Photo To Be Entered Soon!

How long have you been in drill:

Starting my 10th fun-filled year

Name & Breed of horse you ride in drill:

First year with Smokey/7 year old Appendix Quarter horse

How many children do you have? Ages:

1 son, Gavin, 4 years old

How many miles do you travel to drill practice:

6 miles one way

Most memorable moment (date & event):

While there are many, I would have to say July 2003 when my motor home broke down on the way to Enumclaw Rodeo. Thank goodness I wasn't riding and just went along to help out and offer my home on wheels. I may have been more of a nuisance than a helper and had to beg, borrow and steal food and clothes for the remainder of the weekend. I learned that I really can get by without all the "extras" (like a shower) and still had the best weekend ever with the worlds greatest friends!

Favorite Rodeo Performance (why):

Again, many to choose from but the Cashmere rodeo during the Chelan County Fair is probably my favorite. The arena footing is always perfect for fast drilling, the rodeo committee and contestants are very friendly and supportive of our event. This is where we discovered the famous chocolate-dipped fruit booth. The Waterville rodeo at the North Central Washington Fair is also a great group of people. Not to mention the big name, concert we always take in! I am sad that we no longer ride at the PNE in Vancouver, BC. That was the experience of a lifetime.

What do you like best about being a member of the Skagit Rein Riders:

It's kind of like all those bits you have hanging in the tack room: There are all kinds of personalities on this team. Each member has her area of expertise and brings something special to the team which makes us very effective in our efforts. We've all had our good times as well as bad. No matter what, we are there for each other. From doctoring horse wounds to birthday kidnappings; you can do them alone but it's not much fun.

What do you think the Skagit Rein Riders have to offer potential members:

We invite you to come and join our "family." What better way to combine your love for horses, the sport of rodeo and a group of gals who can make you laugh so hard your sides split but will be there to hold your hand for the surgery?

Other comments:

We have so many wonderful memories that some of the members have created an ongoing, team scrapbook. It is in these photos, we remember the great times of the past and read some of the exciting and unbelievable stories of our years of travel. Please come see for yourself and we hope to see you at our next practice!

Kristen Vanvalkenburg

Cindee Zastoupil