Bakas Horse Wins National Award

Chester, an 18 year old Quarter Horse, lost his right eye a couple of years ago after an injury. But that hasn't stopped him from helping the hundreds who come through the doors of Bakas Equestrian Center each year.

It's a universal message at Bakas.

Chester, a therapeutic horse at the center, was recently rewarded for his persistence as Horse of the Year for Region 5 (Southeast United States) by the  Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. This honor is given to hard-working horses who are the heart of successful therapeutic riding centers.

Bakas Equestrian Center, established in 1987, is a recreational riding center that hosts riding lessons for children four years old through adults that have physical and/or mental disabilities.

Bakas will receive a painting of Chester, and he will be included on the 2012 PATH poster. Chester will be honored at the PATH International Awards Banquet held on Nov. 2 in Bellevue, Wash. As a regional winner, Chester is a finalist for the 2012 PATH International National Horse of the Year Award. The winner will be announced at the banquet.