The Nightmare at Beaver Lake has a signature act and it involves horses.

Since the event began six years ago the High Valley Riders, a state competitive equestrian drill team, have been providing horses and costumed riders for the event. These skilled riders and seasoned horses have enjoyed following patrons down the trail with a snort on the shoulder or by providing the eerie glimpse of a headless horseman along the shadowy trail.

The horse drill team is based right here in Sammamish and does their winter practicing at Rock Meadow Equestrian Center. In the spring, the group moves to Bridle Trails State Park.

The team travels the state on weekends from May to July to competitions. Last year, the team took first place in several drill competitions. You can also see the team perform at the Bridle Trails Party in the Park and at the Evergreen State Fair Rodeo.

The relationship with the Sammamish Rotary Club and the opportunity to participate in the Nightmare came about because Michele Petitti, a member of the team and also a charter member of the Rotary Club, suggested the idea. The first year was a trial run but proved to be very popular and people always want to experience the horses again and again.

Since the event has grown and expanded the number of days it is open, the team has committed to providing this “act” and the Rotary club supports the team with an annual donation. The Rotary club dollars help the team purchase costumes and equipment, bringing the cost of participation down for members.

The High Valley Riders wish to express their thanks to the Rotary club for supporting their equestrian adventures and allowing us to scare the Dickens out of people, too.

Yippee Yahoo,

– Michele Petitti, on behalf of the High Valley Riders Equestrian Drill Team