Mini & Pony
ARIZONA TEAM HEADS FOR THE ROSE BOWL PARADE
AZ Mini Mystique driving team members from left to right are: (back row) Ron Souza and Shadow, Roz Sommerville and DC, Craig Zamboni and Concho, Tim Callahan and Chevy, Bob Smith and Calypso; (second row Michelle Perryman and Gemini, Shirlee Callahan and Coughdrop, Barb Gates and Commander, Linda Smith and Nugget; (front row) JoAnne Souza and Bonsai, Jessie Zamboni and Midnight, Ann Kosin and Rocky, Leslie Paradise and Rebel. Not pictured are the hardworking non driving members and sponsors who support the group as well.
The AZ Mini Mystique Precision Drill Team has been given an opportunity of a lifetime, to go to the upcoming 2008 Tournament of Roses Parade as representatives of the American Miniature Horse. They will also perform at the Equestfest event held two days prior to the parade in Pasadena CA. This will be the second time many of the members have participated in these events, but the first time as the AZ Mini Mystique.
The AZ Mini Mystique, a miniature horse driving drill team, is comprised of individuals ranging in age from the mid 20’s to the early 70’s. Their unique performance consists of a military style close order drill set to music. The maneuver called the Suicide Wheel is so close that the horses have to lift their heads to allow the opposing cart to pass by and is united with the precise timing of the eye catching Box Cross, spins, and pinwheels which all draw resounding applause.
Throughout the year the team participates in various parades across the state. Members and their miniatures horses visit nursing homes, schools and hospitals as therapeutic horses and have been showcased in such venues as the upcoming Arizona Horse Festival and Expo (http://www.arizonahorsefestival.com). Many of the team members take part in pleasure driving as well as competitive arena driving trials (known as ADT’s). They are in the process of becoming the first miniature driving unit to compete in drill team competitions.
All of this is possible because of dedicated members of the AZ Mini Mystique and their horses. They get together at least monthly for meetings and practice constantly, weather permitting, sometimes in as far north as Prescott. Their purpose is to entertain and educate the public while promoting the American Miniature Horse.
The AZ Mini Mystique does not charge for their performances. They rely on sponsorships and donations to offset the cost of travel and entry fees. As an independent, incorporated, non-profit (501c3) organization, your donations are tax deducible. In addition to the hours spent practicing, the team members donate their time to raise money for the team by hosting yard sales, soliciting sponsorships, looking for grants and pursuing donations.
You can visit their website for more information and see pictures of the team www.minimystique.org. If you would like to talk to someone about the AZ Mini Mystique, contact Ron Souza at 623-465-5034.
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