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Equestrians Ride to Honor Those Who Have Fallen

By: Dana Chicklas

Updated: March 2, 2013

CHAMBERSBURG, PA - "He just was bigger than life," says Kim Battin, Wilson College Alumna of '88.

Wilson College honors Colonel Alfred "Bud" Kitts during this horse show: the teacher who started the school's Equestrian program in the early '80's. He passed away at the age of 87, just days before this show.

"He is the biggest influence on my life besides my own father. He didn't just teach us about horse lessons, he taught us about life lessons: about honor and dignity, and treating people and horses and everybody with respect," adds Battin.

Even if students didn't take the Colonel's classes, they say he was honorable and kind.

"Several of the Alumni have dressed up in riding attire to pay tribute to him," says Sharon Hanna, Wilson College Alumna of '89.

Alongside Colonel Kitts, Wilson students dedicated this show to fund-raise for the Sandy Hook Memorial Fund.

"Here at Wilson we do believe in a tight community. We're family here and we want to share that with others, and really make this a fun event that we could do every single semester and donate towards other important things going on in the United States," says Adrienna Rowe, Wilson College Equestrian student.

Riders wore green and white ribbons to remember the loved ones who were lost at Sandy Hook; and though it does not compare, Equestrian students say working with horses helps them through tough times.

"When I'm having a bad day, they're my only friend sometimes because they never lie to you. They can't lie, they're about as honest as any animal can get," says Allie Veach, Wilson College Equestrian student and team captain.

Just like a mentoring relationship that continues to teach and defy time.

Wilson College hosts its next Equestrian show this coming Fall. Students say they're hoping to dedicate it to an important fund-raising cause.