Wild Spirit Vaulters

Hi, my name is Cristi Flynn and I am the club owner and coach for our equestrian vaulting club. First of all, I know there are many venues for you to donate your money to, many causes more worthy than ours, so I appreciate you even reading this far.

Our vaulting club started a couple years ago when our daughter, Kendra, was in need of a club close to home after hers moved out of state. She had a small group of friends who also vaulted with her at the time that also wanted to continue the sport. Knowing this sport has not only given them the athletic component, they have also learned to work with a 1500lb equine partner which involves the physical, mental, and emotional aspect too. So we formed Wild Spirit Vaulters and we started to train my eventing mare, Luna, for the task. We operate at Summerhill Farm in Belton Texas.

Equestrian vaulting is like a combination of gymnastics, dance, and riding. Its a nationally recognized sport under the FEI, USEF, and a recreational sport for associations like Pony Club and Girl Scouts. Most clubs have a non-profit status but we are still working on putting ours together. We have the opportunity to purchase a MWAE (MW Automated Equine) barrel unit prototype, which is a great discounted price before they go into production. Our club does not have any funds in the account because what we charge in lessons/tuition goes straight into the vaulting horses cost of feed, farrier, vet, and body work. We had plans to save for a new surcingle now that we have 2 vaulting horses, but I believe at the moment the MWAE unit is important. We are asking if you love the sport or love our vaulters in the sport, any donation would be helpful in helping fund this piece of equipment.

Why do we want a moving barrel?

1. Having a moving barrel that simulates a horses walk/trot/canter and various speeds will help both new and experienced vaulters practice their moves that are typically only done on the stationary barrel to the moving horse. This allows for a safer experience in preparing training taken to the horse.

2. Having a moving barrel decreases the wear and tear on our vaulting horses. As you know, Luna has stepped up as a part time vaulting horse, but can only handle limited sessions. Pearl is our other vaulting horse whom we've been training for a year. Both mares need maintenance, just as any athletes do.

3. Having a moving barrel means we can practice in inclement weather. We do not have a covered or indoor arena, so if its raining, blasting north wind, or 115 degrees, we can't practice.

With the help of public funding, we plan on offering community events as a thank you. This is still in the works but we will update our club page with more information. Follow the club on Facebook at Wild Spirit Vaulters

We have hard working vaulters and their families. Please help consider donating this holiday seasons and help make dreams come true!