HORSE SHOW RETURNS WITH COMMUNITY SUPPORT.

Byline: Angela Randazzo Staff Writer

SIMI VALLEY - Bringing horse shows back to Simi Valley was important to Terry Simon - a horse lover since she was 5 years old.

Simon has helped organize a two-day show that will include more than 70 riding class competitions as part of Simi Valley Days on Saturday and Sunday. The event is free to the public.

``The horse show was part of Simi Valley Days in the past, but there wasn't one last year. We're bringing it back bigger and better than ever,'' said Simon, horse show chairwoman of the newly formed Simi Valley Equestrian Trails Inc., Corral 118. ``It's good for the horse community to come together and the whole community as well.''

Simon, who has lived in Simi Valley for 14 years and owns four quarter horses, said the excellent public equestrian facilities in Simi Valley were not being used to their fullest potential.

Her goal, along with members of ETI Corral 118, is to establish a horse show circuit that will culminate in an annual awards banquet.

The weekend events will include English riding classes Saturday and Western riding classes Sunday at the Arroyo Simi Equestrian Center, 3495 Chickory Leaf Place. Entry fees for the riders are $12 per class.

Proceeds will go to ETI Corral 118 for ongoing local shows, horse-care clinics and to help preserve equestrian trails.

Various sponsors have pledged their support, and first-place winners will receive $25 in millennial gold coins. Other awards include a diamond prize from Crescent Jewelers, an English riding saddle from Simi Valley Feed and buckets filled with horse goodies from Theresa's Country Feed & Tack.

``There has been a incredible outpouring of support from local businesses and horse supply companies like Kensington Blankets,'' said Simon. ``This is going to be the largest horse show event that's ever happened in Simi Valley.''

For information, call [phone].