Horse Show to Be Held for Disabled

A fluttering canopy of white homing pigeons will be released Sunday at the Pegasus Creek Equestrian Center, marking the start of an annual horse show for young riders with physical and mental disabilities.

About 85 athletes from throughout Southern California and Arizona will compete in the Tri-Valley Special Olympics Pegasus Creek Invitational Equestrian Competition, organizers said.

The all-day event, now in its fifth year, raises money to support the Special Olympics by purchasing saddles, horse blankets and helmets. It is sponsored by the Warner Center Kiwanis Club in association with other Kiwanis and Key Clubs.

This year, said the club’s incoming president, Howard Miereanu, actor Peter Bergman of “The Young and the Restless” will be on hand to pass out ribbons and trophies.

Athletes ranging in age from 6 to 25 will compete in jumping, racing and horse-handling competitions.

Other attractions include an arts and crafts tent and a silent auction of, among other things, a guitar autographed by singer Neil Diamond.

“They also have a horse and rider costume event, which is always a real kick,” Miereanu said. Last year, participants posed as Zorro, several nursery rhyme characters, and a bride and groom on horseback. “The horses were also dressed up in a tuxedo and bridal veil,” he said. “It was very imaginative.”

The event, which is free to the public, will be from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Pegasus Creek Equestrian Center, 2972 Triunfo Canyon Road.

For more information, call Miereanu at (818) 884-6307.