Training pays off for local riders

(Top photo) Allie Austin, 10, of Blytheville participated in the West Tennessee Hunter Jumper Association Horseshow at the Germantown Charity Area on Nov. 20, 2010.

(Bottom photo) Austin poses for a photo with trainer Maleigha Light of Lepanto and Megan Jenkins, 11, of Blytheville.

For Austin, it was her first show. She competed in the 10-and-under Cavalletti division, earning a first place, three third places and two fourth-place ribbons.

Allie is the daughter of Jason and Dana Austin.

Jenkins attended several shows last year.

She competed in the 10-and-over cross rails.

She earned grand champion of her division. She also won ribbons for first place, second (three) and third.

She placed fourth all-around for the year.

Megan is the daughter of Norman and Diane Jenkins of Blytheville.

Both girls are looking forward to next year's show circuit, where they will be competing on a regular basis.

Their weekly training lessons paid off through these placings.