The Dunbar daughters ride again
Sierra Dunbar on her horse, Grace, during a dressage test at Colorado Horse Park in Parker this summer.
Article by Kathy Dunker with photos by Jennifer Dunbar
Castle Pines North orthodontist and Forest Park resident, Andrew Dunbar, and his wife, Jennifer, have a lot to brag about with two talented young equestrians in their family. The Dunbar girls, Sierra (16) and Jane (11), competed in a Colorado Hunter/Jumper Association show at Colorado Horse Park in Parker this August. Sierra came home with a fifth place and Jane earned second, third and a sixth place awards.
Sierra, a junior at Rock Canyon High School, began riding at the young age of three, and became a serious equestrian when she was eight years old. Currently leasing a six-year old mare named Grace, Sierra has worked very hard with her horse. Sierra and Grace are strong in eventing, which is a series of three events consisting of dressage, stadium jumping and cross country jumping. Sierra and Grace have finished third, second and second in three of the United States Eventing Association shows that she competed in this summer. Sierra is now qualified to compete in the regional championships this month.
Jane Dunbar donning her awards with pony, Splish Splash, at Savoy Stables in Littleton last month.
Jane, a sixth grader at Rocky Heights Middle School, started riding at the age of five. Jane has competed in local horse shows in the beginner equitation classes jumping two-foot courses, and is also in the United States Pony Club. Jane enjoys stadium jumping most of all. Jane got her pony, Splish Splash, in March of last year and has been teaching the pony the jumping discipline. Jane says, “Riding is exciting and thrilling because I get to jump! I also love to gallop around the arena and out in the open. It makes me feel free!”
As for parents Andrew and Jennifer, they both strongly support their daughters with their riding whether they are competing or just riding for pleasure. As Jennifer says, “The responsibility of having to care for an animal that large is such a benefit; the kids learn patience and feel a huge sense of pride.” Dunbar goes on to say, “Horses are a huge part of our lives. We go to the barn nearly every day.”
