Local equestrian among best in world
By Anne Marie Kyzer Staff Writer

TARA SALTER

A young Waynesboro horsewoman rode her way into the world spotlight recently.

At the prestigious American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Youth World Show in Fort Worth, Texas, Tara Salter placed in the top 10 in her class on her gelding, Cruzin' for Chocolate.

Salter and her horse, affectionately called "Rolo," competed in the Youth Performance Geldings, which included stiff competition from some 45 superior horses.

"You have to qualify just to get there, not just anyone can go," Salter 's trainer Teri Layer explained. "This is a big deal. Not many even qualify, and Tara made the top ten."

After the first round of competition, 15 finalists were pulled from the lot and then the top 10 horses were named. Salter placed 10th.

Salter's supporters in her pursuit of excellence are proud of her accomplishments as an equestrian.

Back in Burke County, signs congratulating Salter and Rolo lined the road approaching Cross Ridge Ranch, Layer's facility where the pair trains. And a week after her return, friends and family surprised Salter with a party to celebrate her World Show performance.

The Edmund Burke Academy senior adds this award to a bushel of honors she's already earned on Rolo. A couple of those include winning the American Quarter Horse Association's Region 10 Experience All-Around title and earning the Youth AQHA Championship.

Salter is the daughter of Phillip and Shirley Salter and the granddaughter of Joyce Salter and the late Avery Salter of Waynesboro, Regis Moore of Millen and Clifford and Kathy Wise of Brooklet.