Chisholm Challenge Athletes Show What’s Possible

For athletes competing in Chisholm Challenge at the stock show and rodeo in Fort Worth this week is big.

“This is their Super Bowl,” said Duane Wheeler, president of the Chisholm Challenge. “I feel free for riders who face challenges every day.”

There are 15 Therapeutic Riding Organizations participating in the competition, which include riders with physical or mental disabilities.

“I have been blessed with the gift of cerebral palsy,” said Kenton Morgan.

Morgan has been participating in the Chisholm Challenge for 16 years.

“I’m riding the Chisholm Challenge at the start of the stock show,” Morgan said. “And in these moments, all the eyes and ears of all those present here are tuned in to you, and there is something very beautiful and strong in this.”

“After my injury, I heard about therapeutic riding and it felt natural,” said Lisa Ramsey.

Ramy, a Fort Worth police officer, was shot and killed in the line of duty in 2003, leaving her paralyzed from the chest down.

“I do a show for riders with disabilities,” Ramsey said. “But for me, I’m just living life.”

Both Ramsey and Morgan have won blue ribbons in their respective western equestrian competitions.

“Cody usually wins first,” Ramsey joked about Cody’s horse. “Be careful, he bites! I bite too.”

The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is donating space use to the Chisholm Challenge, which runs until Wednesday.

FWSSR starts on Friday, January 13th. You can find more information here.