The Ride of Their Lives

CELINA - Do what's expected, and then do some more.

For those who knew former Celina Middle School Principal Ann Esselstein, these words are familiar. A year after her death following a three-year battle with cancer, a former student took the motto to heart and organized a horse camp fundraiser in Esselstein's name.

About 100 kids participated in the event held Saturday at Circle T Ranch on Hoenie Road near Celina.

Eighth grader Natalie Rider, 14, grew up around horses, and she hoped the weekend horse camp for kids ages 2-13 would help raise money to fight cancer.

The Circle T Ranch Easter Camp was all Natalie's idea, from the group organization to the activities that would be offered, according to Natalie's mother Niki Rider.

Campers were organized into age groups, with 10-11 kids per group who rotated through different stations. At one station, kids could ride a horse. At others, they could learn about horse care, including how to groom horses, how to feed a horse treats and the importance of horse tack - such as saddles, bridles, halters and other items - and how to put the items on.

For $60 per camper, the kids received the beginning of basic equine education mixed in with crafts, physical activities and games. The day also included a visit from the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt followed by hot dogs and cookies for participants.

Originally, there was only going to be one camp session from 8 a.m.-noon, but the interest was so great, another session was added from 4-8 p.m., Niki Rider said.

Natalie hoped to raise $2,000 to donate to the Celina Middle School's Relay for Life, which raises money for the American Cancer Society. Though some money would need to go toward paying workers, with about 100 kids scheduled to attend, Niki Rider estimated her daughter would more than meet her goal, and likely even double it.

Niki Rider said she and her daughter had discussed the possibility of making the event an annual one. Both were more than willing to make it happen, she said.

While Natalie and her fellow volunteers and workers showed campers how to care for their equine partners, a banner with Esselstein's famous words, "Always do what's expected, and then do some more," was on display to remind all who participated of their purpose, and perhaps motivate them to keep going above and beyond.