When Dawn Lelakowski’s daughter got married and moved away, it would have been easy to hang up her horse’s halter for good. Instead, show mom Dawn took the reins, saddling up for a new adventure and an epic return to the show ring after a 26-year hiatus.
“In 2016, Tori was moving out of state and told me to go ride her horse and have fun,” Dawn said. “I still miss being a show mom, but I got to enjoy a beautiful horse gifted to me from my daughter, while getting used to an empty nest. I am truly blessed to show such a kind, patient horse that taught me I could get back to the show pen. I rode in pleasure classes for a few years, decided to take a ranch clinic and fell in love with the ranch discipline.”
The horsewoman from Carthage, New York, is still showing her daughter’s horse, Bar Driftin Dot Com, a 2007 black tobiano mare by BHR Jingo Drifter and out of Pretty Dot. “Dottie,” now 19, will likely transition to less-intense competition after this year, Dawn says.
“I am going to be 55 this year, and my horse is 19—we are the old mares club,” she laughed. “After this show, we will compete in one more regional show and then Dottie will retire from me. Hopefully, we will find a walk-trotter for her.”
One Last Hurrah
This is Dawn’s first time competing at the APHA Eastern National Championship. Dawn does most of her training herself and travels with a group of women—they encouraged her to make the trek to Wilmington, Ohio, for the national show.
“My goals at this show are to take in all the classes with clean rides and to enjoy the show,” Dawn said. “I’ve heard what a fun and exciting show this is, so when I leave, I hope to still be laughing and smiling at all the fun I had.”
As their stories turn to new chapters, Dawn will soon be embarking on a new journey. She recently purchased a Paint yearling and hopes to find their way back to the show ring, too.
“Tori gave me the courage that I can do this—a lesson from my own child,” Dawn said. “She has definitely inspired me to follow my own dreams.”
Top photo by Ruehle Photographix; inside photo by Amy Olson
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.