Warwick student honored as equestrian champion

Warwick - Warwick residents James and Jennifer Pasquale fondly describe their daughter Francesca, 15, as being, “Horse crazy.” The Warwick Valley High School sophomore’s passion and love for horses, however, combined with her hard work and determination, have paid off. Having won both the New Jersey Horse Show Association (NJHSA) and the New Jersey Professional Horsemen’s Association (NJPHA) 2005 equestrian championships in her division, Francesca Pasquale is now a double state “Champion.” And, at several recent events sponsored by each organization, she was honored for her hard work, patience and desire to be the best in her sport. Pasquale, who has been riding since she was nine years old, keeps a busy schedule. She’s a member of the Jockey Hollow Pony Club and a junior member of the Windy Hollow Hunt. She also looks after seven horses at home. “I just love being a pony clubber,” she said. “It’s a lot of fun to ride with my friends and learn by helping each other overcome our individual challenges.” In the arena Pasquale usually rides one of her favorite horses, “Una Dos Tres,” under the watchful eye of her dedicated coach and trainer, Linda Mancini, a professional rated rider. The young equestrian also enjoys being out on the trails with another horse, Gina, chasing the foxes. “It’s awesome,” she said. Francesca has two sisters: Gabrielle, 8, and Adrienne, 18, her older sister whom she credits as a role model for the love of this sport and the equine lifestyle. Speaking on behalf of everyone in his family, James Pasquale said, “As you may imagine, Francesca’s devotion to this sport and long hours of training and preparation demand many sacrifices from everyone. Her wonderful achievements make it all worthwhile and we are a very proud family.”