Middle School Student Rides To Success

Margaret Wahlert jumped her way to a $225 Library Grant for Culver City Middle School by placing third in the Riding for Reading competition during the Los Angeles Hunter/Jumper benefit show.

The event was held on August 31 at Los Angeles Equestrian Center.

Margaret, a seventh grader at Culver City Middle School, was thrilled to place third in this year's class aboard her horse Audacious.

“This is the second year I have competed, last year I was fourth, The competition is open to riders up to 12th grade, so placing third out of 15 riders was exciting." "I am very happy that CCMS will be receiving another library grant based on my riding."

Margaret also rides in the Interscholastic Equestrian League for Culver City Middle School and trains with Joe Thorpe of Sovereign Place stables located at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.

This special competition allows the youngest rider to compete on an equal basis with the most advanced older riders. In addition, instead of riding just for themselves, the riders are representing their schools and every rider in the event earns a grant for his or her school.

The Riding for Reading competition gave participants the chance to earn grants for their school libraries. $3,500 total prize money was awarded to competitors in Riding for Reading competition.

The non-profit Pacific Equestrians organization runs the Riding For Reading program, which is dedicated to promoting literacy and reading through equestrian sports and activities.