The Flintridge Riding Club hosted MACH 1’s 15th Annual Musical Horse Show on June 9 when 22 riders with special needs participated in 10 classes from challenged to advance. Over 300 volunteers, families and friends supported the MACH 1 riders’ accomplishments.

Opening the ceremony with the “Star Spangled Banner” was the El Monte Mounted Police. In addition, Flintridge Riding Club members Carter Newman-Milic rode her horse Red to a musical freestyle and Ellen Narver dramatically rode a Prix St. George musical freestyle. Both riders received applause, smiles and tears.

The Demonstration Drill Team of Jeannie Bone, David Johnston, John Harris, Mary Anne De Briyn, Johanna Leovey and Kathy Rittwage then presented. The crowd appreciated the skill and beauty of the riders and horses.

For the 10th year, Felix Lopez and the Broken Horn Ropers mesmerized the audience with their roping skills. The evening ended with a benefit dinner by Captain BBQ and music by Fiddler’s Green.

Executive Director Joy Rittenhouse said, “We wouldn’t be able to keep the program going without the dedicated support of our local businesses and volunteers. The horse show brought in much needed operating costs plus it was the most financially successful show ever.”

All those associated with the event wish to thank the community for donations and gifts. It was a blue ribbon event for all those who were in attendance.

The show was sponsored by Amigos De Los Rios “Emerald Necklace Group,” Capitalsource Bank, Cinedigm Digital Cinema Corp, El Monte Police, Fedde Furniture, Flintridge Riding Club, Interiors & Exteriors by Carolyn Von Der Ahe, Jorge Bran Gardening Services, Nestle USA, Running Horse Studio and Universal Studios.