About the NBLA
The NBLA is a nonprofit volunteer organization formed in 1978 by members of the community. The goal is to foster an interest in horseback riding as well as preserving, protecting and maintaining riding and hiking trails within the town of Newtown, Connecticut.
What We Do
The NBLA was formed in 1978 by a small group of riding enthusiasts. The very first Frost on the Pumpkin Hunter Pace took place that year. Newtown was a rural community then and it was easy to ride horses on long enjoyable trail rides. The local landscape and the NBLA has changed and evolved over the years, but our group will always support horseback riding and open space.
The NBLA’s activities encompass preserving and expanding Newtown’s trail system and also offering educational talks, demonstrations and group trail rides.
We work with landowners and developers to maintain crucial links in Newtown’s trail system. Due to the efforts of our members, all town owned open space is available to horseback riders.
We also work with landowners, developers and town land use commissions to raise awareness of existing trails and preserve or create new trails. Working with developers, the NBLA has carved new trails, defined old trails and created links to expand the trail system. Newtown boasts a number of easements within developments that link trails.
Our ultimate goal is to link open space with existing trails for a town-wide trail system. Our goal can be accomplished solely through support from our members and sponsors. Become a member today and receive the many benefits that we have to offer.
The NBLA also hosts educational talks that are almost always free of charge to members. Past presentations have covered topics such as nutrition, first aid, camping with your horse, estate planning for your pet, glue-on shoes, equine dentistry and many others. We have also arranged demonstrations such as energy work and equine communication and safety around horses.
Group trail rides are a very popular activity. Often called “Show and Go’s” we take members on fun trail rides and show them where to ride in Newtown and in other nearby towns.
Our Accomplishments
Opened Trail of Angels on the property of the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary. This trail is in honor of the lives lost at Sandy Hook School in 2012. The trail is open to hikers, dog walkers and horseback riders.
Hosting the annual Frost on the Pumpkin Hunter Pace since 1978.
Worked with the Connecticut Horse Council to create the State Equine Advisory Committee.
Achieved “Designated Greenway” status for the entire Town of Newtown
Constructed “David’s Bridge” dedicated to David McCauley, a former trail master, enabling horses and pedestrians to continue on the Flintlock Trail near Maltbie Road and avoid a trappy water crossing.
The NBLA planned trails, cleared trails and worked with the State of CT on the 100 acre Kazan Property in Sandy Hook, allowing NBLA members to use this beautiful property for trail riding and equine events.
Made a sizable donation to the Newtown Forest Association towards the purchase of Cherry Grove Preserve
Board of Directors
As President, I do my best to fulfill the mission of the NBLA. We are lucky to have such a strong group of talented and dedicated Board members. I also write a monthly column called “NBLA Trail Notes” in the Newtown Bee covering topics of interest for the horse lover. I’ve ridden horses since I was young and have lived in Newtown since 1985. I own a sweet bay quarter horse gelding named Little Bear.
Tracy Van Buskirk
President
NBLA is near and dear to my heart. I’ve been on the NBLA board in several positions from Chair woman, Pace Coordinator, to VP, for over 25 years. I have my Spanish Mustang Cinnamon Girl, and Welsh Cob Cross, Magic Man, at our Newtown home, October Hill Farm, where we ride the beautiful local trails. Contact me for email and P.O Box correspondence, hospitality, social media and anything to do with Membership.
Andrea Brosnan
Vice President
I joined the NBLA in 2005, becoming a Board member and serving as Secretary since 2006.
As such, I make every effort to keep accurate records, and meticulously document the Board’s great works and accomplishments in pursuing the mission of the NBLA. I have also served with several other equine organizations and facilities in various capacities. I’ve had a love of horses all my life. When I walk into a [horse] barn it’s my aromatherapy!
Doreen Chiccarello
Secretary
I am thrilled to be the Treasurer of the NBLA. My first riding experience was my 8th birthday and I have been smitten with horses (and all animals) ever since. I moved to Newtown in 2007 and was excited to learn how Newtown embraces and supports the horse community. I volunteered for the FOTP Hunter Pace and fulfilled my dream of riding my first Hunter Pace in 2021. While I don't own a horse, I am pictured here with two of my loves, Remington and Sebastian. I am grateful to be part of this wonderful organization that is expanding.
Renia Marini
Treasurer
I have been on the NBLA Board for over ten years. I am the Trail Master, so I am responsible for keeping the trail system maintained and open for horse riders year round. I also design the Frost On The Pumpkin Pace route which extends 8-10 miles, depending on the year. I am always looking for volunteers to thrash around in the woods with me to cut back overgrowth, to make note where fallen trees are, and to mark the trail for the pace. Dogs are always welcome!
Stephanie Lennon
Director
My position is as the liaison between the NBLA and the Second Company Governors Horse Guard. The Horse Guard was chartered in 1808 and is an all-volunteer state organized militia unit, originally formed to protect and escort the Governor. As an active Cavalry Unit, 2GHG continues to serve the Governor and the State of Connecticut. The main duties of the unit are as a ceremonial unit, partaking in parades and public educational service to schools, scouting groups, and special needs. We work closely with the NBLA to host joint events and provide outreach to the equine community.
Retired LTC Gordon Johnson
Director
I have lived in Newtown since 2012 and reignited my passion for horses by riding at one of our many local stables, and by rescuing my Missouri Fox Trotter, Opal, who enjoys a natural horsey life at Happy Trails Farm. I joined the NBLA to be part of a like-minded group interested in protecting and preserving our trails and open spaces, a character that makes Newtown a unique and special place. I am a western pleasure rider and grateful for the many trail systems we have available to us, the events we can participate in, and this strong community of horse lovers and landowners that make it all possible.
Kimberly Chabot
Director
I am a longtime member of NBLA and served as President for 3 years. My husband and I own Happy Trails Farm in Danbury where we offer boarding, training and lessons. I am a Western rider, love cowboy dressage, ranch riding and trail riding as well as obstacle events.
Lucy Prybylski
Director
I grew up in New Fairfield, CT and was introduced to horses at a very young age. My mom had horses growing up and she always made sure my sister and I were in a lesson program. I quickly became a barn rat and spent every spare minute at the barn- loving every single part of it.
Fast forward 30 years, and I am now married with two sons, age 4 and almost 7! Horses are still a huge part of my life and I currently own and board my horse, Denali at a barn here in Newtown. I am a Registered Nurse of 13 years, and manage a Community Health and Wellness Department. I recently enrolled for Master’s and am currently working towards my APRN. Looking forward to seeing everyone out on the trails!
Olivia Dovales
Director
I joined the NBLA in 2023 after serving on the Board of the Fairfield Bridle Trails Association. I’ve had a long career training and showing horses and I now own and manage Greenfield Hill Farm in Easton. The farm offers farm visits, pony rides, pony parties, riding lessons, goat walks and more. My horse partner is Cash, a majestic Palomino who takes me wherever I want to go.
Amy Smith
Director
