Latigo ‘N Lace team tops off a winning season

Of the equestrian drill teams that are found in Washington, few are as successful as Clark County’s Latigo ‘N Lace.

The team, which gets its name from a type of leather used in horse saddles, recently finished their 2015-16 season on a high note with a performance at the Clark County Fair on Aug. 13.

Latigo ‘N Lace won five competitions this season, which began in May. They also placed first in the Reno Rodeo in June, performing in short program, freestyle, impromptu, compulsory and parade drills.

“We’ve been winning everywhere we go,” said team member Lisa Kuhlman.

Kuhlman, a Camas resident, joined the team this year along with her daughter, McKenzie. They were drawn to Latigo ‘N Lace because they knew it had a successful track record.

“Latigo ‘N Lace was the best team to join in terms of skill,” she said.

McKenzie Kuhlman is a Camas High School graduate, and competed on the Papermaker’s equestrian team for four years.

Latigo ‘N Lace was founded in 1992 out of the desire for adult and youth riders to be able to compete on the same team. For the last few years, it has been one of the most successful equestrian teams in the state.

Tryouts for the 2016-17 team will begin in October and are open to riders ages 15 or older, who have at least three years of riding experience. New riders are selected based on participation in six mandatory practices, horse and rider’s demonstrated skill, pattern memorization, attitude and effort, as well as chemistry with the team.

The season runs October through August, and consists of a weekly practice, monthly business meetings, three annual fundraisers, and approximately five competitions from May to August.

For more information abut the team and tryout requirements, contact team captain Christy Slaby at Lnlgirl92@yahoo.com.