2012 Youth Nationals II

Another day of Youth Nationals has gone by, and all of a sudden, the show is over halfway through! Before we know it, we'll all back home and out of this blissful Youth Nationals 'bubble' we've all come to love. Today, there were still a few cut ribbons awarded, even more national championships received, and for me, a very informative and interesting experience. After I rode a purebred hunt horse in the YN judge's clinic, I was able to spend a few classes of the Horse Arena's afternoon session in the announcer's booth, taking in the mechanics of various Youth Nationals classes at their most fundamental level. I was able to speak with ring stewards, the music girl, commissioners, judges, and more about their experiences and thoughts on the show. It was an incredibly enlightening and fun afternoon for me!

This Wednesday of the show also offered a more free time for all as there were no evening classes held in either show ring! Because of this uncustomary free time, there were a couple events on the show grounds. These were the 20th anniversary celebration of Youth Nationals and Burkman Training Centre's open house party. Below are some pictures of the event! 

20 years of Youth Nationals Celebration 

Burkman Training Centre Open House Party 

2012 Youth Nationals I

With four days of the 2012 Youth Nationals already behind us, we're at the point where the eventful days have started to mold together seamlessly, cuts have been made and conversely, not made, and several national championships have been awarded as well. Yes, Youth Nationals is in full swing! The summer Albuquerque weather has cooperated wonderfully so far, which always makes for a more enjoyable horse show. Late afternoon showers keep the dust down, and when it's all just too hot to handle, there's always the option of making the trek up to Tingley to chill with an Icee or some cookie dough ice cream! And still, as in years past, the competition is incredible. Every class that I've watched has left me with a sense of pride and inspiration for the future of the Arabian horse. The horses are first-rate and the riders have the skill and talent to match, class after class. But Youth offers so much beyond the competitive classes; it's a show that has events and parties nearly every day to ensure that everyone involved has a great time. Just in case you're not here to be a part of the daily events, here's a recap of what you've missed! 

FRIDAY: AHYA Convention

SUNDAY: Parade of Regions

MONDAY: Stick Horse Contest 

And there's so much more to come! Stay updated on Youth Nationals with pictures, blog posts, tweets, and more from AHT through the week! Thanks for your time and comments are welcome! 

Back to the Office

As my second summer in the Arabian Horse Times offices begins, I find myself in a new place, but with familiar people. The Times has moved to Jordan, Mn, which works for me because I'll be closer to Cedar Ridge, where one of my horses is in training. Although three of my other horses are at home in South Dakota, I am comforted by the fact that I will have at least one horse to ride consistently. Thank goodness!

So here's to a summer of working for an International publication that has given me a great start to the life I hope to lead. I feel so lucky to have found a "job" based in the business I have grown up in and love so dearly. It's been a special journey since the first day I set foot in Performance Plus Arabians in South Dakota at age 6, and now, as an amateur rider and in my professional career as a writer for the Times, the journey continues. Through positivity, hard work, and setting goals, I hope to continue growing personally and professionally. Wish me luck!