Sitting next to Julie Ann Holmes at the CHJA Annual Awards Banquet, amateur rider Diana Schatz had no idea what was about to happen. Julie Ann had casually put her arm on the program they were sharing to ensure Diana didn’t look ahead to see the special honor that was to be bestowed later in the evening – Diana was to be recognized as the Marv Luttges Adult Amateur Sportsmanship Award.

“To be recognized by CHJA is a very special honor,” Diana said. “CHJA has given has given me motivation to improve my riding, and the CHJA shows are so friendly and fun. The people are the best.”

Diana began riding when she was 12 and rode consistently until she went off to college. She notes this was before all the collegiate riding programs when everybody sold their horses to help pay for tuition. About 25 years later, she had an irresistible need to start riding again.

“I bought Treble as a four-year-old, which was really crazy when you think about it. Then, I fell into the lucky puddle when I stumbled upon Val Williams,” she added. “I have never looked back.”

But her path has not been without its pitfalls. A few years ago, Diana rescued two off-the-track Thoroughbreds from the killer. She was on a trail ride with one of them, Blackie, and began going through a gate.

“The gate only opened toward me, and not even all the way, so I should have dismounted. But, no, I urged Blackie through. My boot got caught on the metal rod that latched the gate. The rod cut through my boot, through my foot and snapped four bones,” she said.

She does add that Blackie “was a saint.” He calmly stopped, backed up and stood quietly while Diana called out for help.

“Like an idiot, I was riding alone with no cellphone,” she lamented.

That was just before the Estes Park Horse Shows in 2015. Determined not to end her season injured, Diana rallied to make it to the last Four Winds show in October.

Most recently, Diana has been showing Godiva, a Belgian warmblood who was bred by Jen Tarr in Wellington, Colo. According to Diana, the 17.2 HH mare is a drama queen who is terrified of paper, plastic and ribbons. But, when she gets down to work, she is “a total blast.”

“Godiva loves attention, and will stand forever if you pet her face. But, try to remove her halter for a turnout and she'll rip your arm off. ” Diana said.

The Marv Luttges Adult Amateur Sportsmanship Award is presented annually to the adult amateur rider who best exemplifies Marv’s love of horses and the camaraderie of horse showing. Recipients are nominated by the membership and selected by the board of directors.

COMING SOON! CHJA TO OFFER SHIRTS, BAGS FOR SALE!

Soon you will be able to show your CHJA pride with a new polo shirt or string bag! The shirts are made of a comfortable blend fabric and moves with you. The string bag is perfect for stowing your gloves, snacks and other show or barn necessities. Both are available for a limited time only. You will be able to purchase items online at chja.org.

KIRSTEN TURNER NAMED MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT MANAGER

Kirsten Turner has been named Membership Support Manager for CHJA. This new position combines responsibilities previously undertaken by the Point Counter and Membership Chairman.