The Hats ‘n’ Chaps Gymkhana Society near Dawson Creek, B.C., is beloved by many horse riders in the community.

The society operates an arena, providing a place where people can gather, ride their horses in speed events and celebrate sportsmanship.

The not-for-profit club needed help ensuring their arena would last for future generations. Their dreams of an improved arena have become reality thanks to the support of Dawson Co-op and the Communities in Full Colour program.

Heather Moat, President of Hats ‘n’ Chaps, said working with Co-op was an “absolutely amazing” experience.

“They were just a phone call away with any question and even did the calculations on how much paint we would probably need,” said Moat. “One of our members had previous experience with the program through another organization, and recommended we look into it. We’re so happy we did.”

The Hats ‘n’ Chaps Gymkhana Society was founded in 1969, and it’s been operating in its current location since 1981. The club has over 200 members of all ages who meet weekly from May until September to ride. They have welcomed riders as young as two years old, with the most senior riders saddling up well into their 80s! After nearly 40 years of use and enjoyment, the arena was in desperate need of repair.

Karyn Holland of the Dawson Co-op Home Centre said they chose Hats ‘n’ Chaps because it’s an organization that benefits the whole community.

“I loved that the club was full of members of all ages from toddlers learning to ride all the way to grandmas,” Holland said. “The members of the organization feel like a big part of our Co-op family.”

“They’re generous with their space, allowing other organizations to share the ring for their events, as well,” she added, noting how that generosity fits in with the Co-op’s code of co-operation and openness.

A worthy recipient of the program, Dawson Co-op donated 24 gallons of Krylon Farm and Implement Paint to support the upgrades to the Hats ‘n’ Chaps arena.

“Everyone comments on how bright and beautiful the arena is. It is complimented regularly,” said Moat. “We are exceptionally grateful for the Co-op's Communities in Full Colour program, without it we may not have afforded to have the arena painted.”

“It was a pleasure working with the organization,” Holland said, noting that the club provided a beautiful sign thanking the Dawson Co-op for donating the paint. “The absolute best part is that this is helping so many different groups at the same time.”

With the help of volunteers and Co-op’s generous donation, the Hats ‘n’ Chaps Gymkhana Arena was transformed, giving members a refreshed space and many more years of enjoyment to look forward to.