Michele Aaronson (left) and other riders and horses take part in one of the various games on horseback during the Horsemen’s Association of Millstone Township’s Fun Day held at Thompson Park in Monroe Township on June 27. MONROE — Years ago, horse shows and other equine events were held regularly at Thompson Park.
Some of that history was in evidence on June 27 as members of the Horsemen’s Association of Millstone Township (HAMT) held their annual Fun Day on the grounds. Eighteen riders and several dozen volunteers and friends came out to enjoy games on horseback followed by a potluck lunch.
Monroe resident Carol Strommen, who serves on the committee that put the Fun Day together, said the event is a lot of work, but is worth it in the long run because everyone has a good time.
“Most riders either do trail rides, or Western Pleasure or an obstacle course or the silly games like Simon Says … at one function. We put it together so there is something for everyone,” Strommen said.
It takes a good deal of planning with a lot of different variables, such as footing and rainfall, she said. Fun Day had originally been scheduled for June 20, but was postponed due to the rain. Fortunately, after a night of fierce storms on June 26, sunshine ruled on the rescheduled Fun Day.
PHOTOS BY ERIC SUCAR staff Strommen’s personal favorite activity on Fun Day was the obstacle course, because it is changed each year with new and challenging tasks.
“This year we had jousting and roping stations. It is funny to see how each person gets an opportunity to do stuff on their horses that they wouldn’t normally do,” she said.
Thompson Park, she said, is always very well maintained and kept in excellent condition. Other participants also praised the facility. Valerie Paluzzi of Old Bridge, who serves with Strommen on the Events Committee that put Fun Day together, agreed that the park is beautiful. Paluzzi, pointing out that the horse is the state animal, said she would like to see more horse organizations be able to use the park.
Paluzzi said she is thankful to be part of a group of people like HAMT who can enjoy the outdoors and have a great life full of good people and horses. Strommen said that HAMT is an equestrian organization with common interest in many facets, including fundraising for worthy causes, events and trail rides. It is open to all levels and disciplines of riding.
HAMT’s monthly meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month (excluding July) at 7 p.m. at the Millstone Township Community Center. The meetings keep members updated on all HAMT activities. All horse lovers are welcome, and owning a horse is not a prerequisite for membership. For more information, visit www.hamt.org.