Photo Story: Horseplay is hard work

Hard work is something that Traverse City resident Mariola Power, 20, is used to. She worked tirelessly for good grades at the University of Michigan and as a reward her father purchased her a horse. Now, she is working hard with her horse as she competes in shows around the country.

Most recently in Chicago, Power and her horse For Sure, nicknamed Tubby, won the Washington International Horse Show Adult Jumper Classic, and became the Adult Jumper Champion. Since teaming up, the two have competed in three World Class events.

"It's a lot of work," said Power, who started working with horses in 4-H. "It's almost like taking care of a car, and I am the auto mechanic -- washing, drying and all the other work. But I love it."

Power and Tubby, a 15-year-old 1,300-pound jumper, are currently competing at Horse Shows by the Bay as part of the 25 horses and riders from Northern Pines Farm in Maple City. They are working toward participating at indoor shows in October, which feature only the top 30 horses and riders in each division.

Photos

Power puts a bonnet on Tubby, her 15-year-old, 1,300-pound warmblood jumper. Record-Eagle

Power gives Tubby one of his favorite treats after competing. 'He just loves Gatorade or anything sweet,' said Power. Record-Eagle

Mariola Power and her horse Tubby clear a hurdle during the 2008 Horse Shows by the Bay at Flintfields Horse Park in Williamsburg. Record-Eagle

Melissa Hirt, trainer and owner of Northern Pines Farm in Maple City, watches Power and Tubby warm up before the competition. Record-Eagle

Mariola Power finishes polishing her boots next to her horse Tubby before competition at the 2008 Horse Shows by the Bay in Williamsburg. Story and photos, Page 8A. Record-Eagle

After the competition, Power-s work isn-t done. She has to wash and dry him, and treat his coat. 'It's a lot of work,' said Power. 'But he is worth every minute of it.' Record-Eagle