Horses and riding interest dozens of Hoban students, whether through equestrian competitions or service agencies.

Sophomore Tori Kulwicki owns four horses which she boards at Udulson Horse Barn in Chagrin Falls. She has been riding for 10 years, since she was 5.

"I ride my horses four or five times a week," Kulwicki said. "And I go to competitions about every two months."

In October she went to Washington, D.C., for a national competition at the Verizon Center. Kulwicki finished eighth of 30 contestants in her division, chosen to compete based on their finishes throughout the year.

Junior Danielle Didado also rides and shows horses. She owns a horse, which she boards in Hartville. She takes it to competitions twice a month over the summer and attends at least one competition in the fall.

"I love getting to ride outside," Didado said. "But my favorite part about riding is learning new jumps."

Freshman Shannon Davey's family owns two horses that she and her sister care for. Davey's family built a horse barn five years ago. Davey events her horse, which involves three types of riding, including jumping over short and long distances.

"I hate having to clean the stalls at 6 in the morning," Davey said. "But I love riding my horse on the trails."

Senior Ariel Hoyt takes another route. She volunteers at Here's Hope Horse Farm, a nonprofit organization that offers therapeutic riding programs for physically, mentally and emotionally challenged children.

"I teach the children how to ride," Hoyt said. "It's very rewarding to see the riders do something they never thought they could do."

Victory Gallop, Angel Acres Equitherapy and Pegasus Farm are therapeutic barns. Campus ministry reports that 32 Hoban students volunteer at these farms.

Riding horses helps improve flexibility and increases balance in riders with physical disabilities. The movement of riding mimics the movements of the legs when walking and can increase leg strength. Riders can help take care of the horses, which improves their fine motor skills.

Riding can lead to increased patience, confidence and self-esteem in riders with mental or emotional disorders. The calm, rhythmic movements of riding a horse help the riders relax.

Junior Marco Massoli volunteers at Pegasus Farm.

"Sometimes I have to clean stables," Massoli said. "But I usually help the riders get onto their horses and keep them on as they ride around the ring."