Confessions of a First Time Show Go-er: Day 4

For the Love of Arabians

Here’s the thing, I come from a world that considers paying a couple of hundred bucks for a puppy excessive. So it makes sense that this Arabian Horse Showing world seems a little bit overwhelming for the likes of me. Understand, though, that these overwhelmed feelings come from a place of admiration and respect (maybe a touch of longing jealousy, I mean… obviously). What I’ve come to realize and understand is that there is a purpose and reason behind this horse showing business. It’s not just for status (for the most part, it seems. Though, those kids probably circle around just like they do in every other business) but all of this is for the breed, those intelligent little Arabians. Listening to people talk about these most beloved animals, I get the feeling of pure, unadulterated love and passion. It reverberates through the arenas with each and every whoop and whistle, and with every loving clap, smile, and embrace around a horse’s neck when someone you love wins a championship or places top 10 or has a really good ride. That, my darling horse lovin’ friends, is what separates this from every other world I’ve visited. Sure, nice horses can be bought, but what can’t be purchased is everything else; the loving welcomes to this horse show newbie, the real soul-deep laughter shared among new friends, and the echoing happiness. The horses are what bring people into this planet within our planet; the people are what keep everyone around long term. I was allowed an all-access pass into your world, a place I’ve never seen before and might not get to see again (although, let’s be honest, I’m hooked and hope I get to come to many, many more horse shows). I’ve gotten to see the parts of the show world that not a lot of outside kids get to see and the honesty of it all is what I love the most. It’s an honest love, an honest passion, and a group of truth-telling horse lovers who are here for one thing and one thing only: the love of Arabians.

Thanks to everyone who has been so kind and gracious to me and shared their love, passion, and knowledge. I understand a lot more than I did and still have a lot more to learn, but I’m not bored yet, and I think that’s a testament to my teachers and friends. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll get to see you all around at an upcoming horse show or two!

-Lindsay

Lindsay and her new friend Kiss! 

Scottsdale 2013 IV

How is there only two days of horse show left?! Towards the end of a lengthy and incredible show like Scottsdale, I always find myself questioning where in the world the week went. The days are long, sure, but the show always seems to be over before you can process its end. The weather is back to beautiful and sunny, and Wendell is finally dry enough to show in again! At least I've been out of the blizzard-stricken Midwest for the entire week--and for that I am incredibly grateful! Here are a few superb photos of the past few days of the show... Enjoy!

Confessions of a First Time Show Go-er: Day 3

So Far, So Great

For most of you cool horse kids, walking a horse probably seems like a “no duh” situation. Like, y’all probably did that as wee children. I, however, never quite got to that point in my life. So now, my 22-year-old self walking a horse for the first time was super exciting and pretty much the highlight of my life thus far. Considering when I first arrived in Scottsdale I wasn’t even comfortable with touching a horse, walking one around (under the close supervision of her super cool trainer friend) is pretty neat, I’d say. First step... Walking. With this accomplishment under my belt, my becoming an Arabian horse expert is basically just around the corner! All kidding aside, it was a lovely experience with a lovely horse who has earned a place in my heart as the first horse I’ve ever actually liked. That’s not to say that I don’t like any other horse, they’re animals, so they’re pretty cool in my book, but this one in particular just happens to be the first one I actually felt comfortable being close to. That’s pretty special to me. 

-Lindsay