Learn about the art of riding sidesaddle and the history of fox hunting. Meet presenter Tracy Brennan and her horse Beau, and learn about the very elegant British riding habit for women. Plus, listen to a panel of experts discuss the importance of the standardbred horse industry to Monmouth County.
The programs will be held at the Eastern Branch Library, Shrewsbury, and the Monmouth County Library Headquarters, Manal-apan. Check the library’s calendar of events at www.monmouthcountylib.org for special June is Horse Month movie selections.
Each year, the Monmouth County Library celebrates June is Horse Month, according to a press release. The annual observance gives guests an opportunity to focus on New Jersey’s state animal as well as on the recreational, economic, social and therapeutic benefits provided by the equine industry.
June is Horse Month programs include:
Meet Beau and Learn about Riding Sidesaddle, 11 a.m. June 8, Eastern Branch, 1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, 1-886-941- 8188.
Join Tracy Brennan and her horse, Runnin’ Robbo (aka Beau), outside the library for this program. Tracy will teach guests about the progression of women’s riding styles through the ages. The bond between the rider and the horse will come to life as Tracy demonstrates riding sidesaddle.
After the demonstration, Beau will welcome carrots, words of praise, and photos with the audience. In addition, children will be able to mount stationary saddles to experience different riding styles. Rain date is June 15.
The World of Fox Hunting, 7 p.m. June 12, Eastern Branch, 1001 Route 35, Shrewsbury, 1-886-941-8188. Tracy Brennan will take guests back to the early 1900s and explore the sport of fox hunting. Tracy will explain the design and function of each piece of the riding habit. She will also recount the history of fox hunting, explain the roles of the participants, describe the equipment, and teach about the significance the sport played in the Edwardian social scene — particularly for women — and explain how fox hunting is practiced today.
Standardbred Horse Panel Discussion, 7 p.m. June 17, Library Headquarters, 125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan, 732-431-7220. A special panel on standardbred horses will discuss the importance of the horse and the equine industry to Monmouth County.
The panelists include:
Harriet Honigfeld, administrator, Farmland Preservation Program, Monmouth County Planning Board.
Sam Landy, president, Open Space Pace.
Tom Luchento, president, Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey.
Dr. Karyn Malinowski, director, Equine Science Center, Rutgers University.
The moderator of the event will be Dr. William Sciarappa, Rutgers University – New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station.

