SADDLE UP: Equestrian remains big draw in north Fulton

By Ryan Peck

rpeck@neighbornewspapers.com

Equestrian events and horse show exhibitions receive plenty of support in north Fulton. Matt Casey – Director of Equestrian at Wills Park in Alpharetta – said his park stays booked with shows for much, if not all, of the season.

“We pretty much have horse shows, that’s our main staple,” said Casey. “The majority of our horse shows are free, for people to come out and watch. We stay so busy out here. About every one-and-a-half days we have an event.”

Casey added Wills Park caters to about 75,000 spectators on an annual basis, and hosted another horse show just last weekend. Casey said the majority of shows are of the hunter-jumper variety, where contestents are judged based on eloquence over minimal jumps (hunter) and speed and clearance of higher fences (jumper).

“At the end of May we had a jumper show where City League International – [entrants] from all around the world – came to compete,” he said. “Obviously, north Fulton is always known for equestrian activities. That’s still strong.”

Richard Fritzler, who owns and operates The Horseback Riding Barn off Shallowford Road in Roswell, has sent past riders and horses to shows at Wills Park, among other hot spots. His land, while a bit on the smaller side by Fritzler’s account, provides a haven for local youths to learn skills and responsibilities in caring for and riding horses, as well as life skills, in general.

“It’s a place where people can come, who like to be around animals and horses,” said Fritzler, who was raised as a western-style rider in Colorado and has been training riders for 15 years in the north Fulton area.“When on a horse, the natural and logical consequences of their own [the rider’s] actions come right back to them immediately. For people or kids that really need that kind of integrated experience, horseback riding does that. This [location] offers team sport activity, but it really is a lot more personal thing.”

His two daughters, Katherine and Emily – both 22 years of age – “occasionally” compete, according to Fritzler. They continue to contribute on their father’s barn, as well as working towards college degrees.“It’s a wonderful place,” said Mary Flynn, whose granddaughter, Taylor, spends time at The Horseback Riding Barn. “It’s more than just about the riding. It’s about training young people to keep responsibility and have a good time. As a neighbor, this place is a fantastic place for young people.”