SHELBYVILLE -- The track -- appealing to both Saddlebred and Walking Horse exhibitors alike -- was just one thing that contributed to the World Cup Spring Premier’s successful rebound last week.
The show, held April 18 through April 20, 2002, at the Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville, Tenn. was marked by sunshine, smiles and satisfaction.
“Compliments on the track!” Show Manager Mark Farrar said Saturday evening after the show. Farrar added that he was very pleased with the exhibitor feedback, claiming that incredible amounts of “just really nice people” attended the show.
World Cup Spring Premier kicked off Wednesday evening at the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, Tenn. Exhibitors followed a guided tour of the distillery, learning about the process of making fine whiskey, as well as getting a glimpse of what Old Time Tennessee is all about. The tour was followed by a southern style barbecue, fried catfish and all the fixins’ . Food was accompanied by live music and, naturally, Mr. Jack Daniel himself.
Hospitality continued on Thursday afternoon, prior to the show’s start, with a groom’s cook-out. After the conclusion of Thursday evening’s session, exhibitors enjoyed a taste of breakfast and champagne, prepared by Shelbyville’s own Currant Thymes Cafe.
The Currant Thymes continued to host an array of fine food throughout the show, including Tex Mex Friday afternoon, barbecue Friday evening and an italian-style buffet on Saturday -- not to mention a variety of homemade desserts.
What goes along with fine food? How about a little live music from Absolute Zero Friday evening at the Exhibitors’ Party.
In the mix of, what many exhibitors called fantastic hospitality, the competition took place, alternating classes between American Saddlebred and Tennessee Walking Horses. Rob Byers judged the Saddlebreds, while Sandra Hall captured the moments as show photographer.
For the complete show story, see the printed edition of Saddle Horse Report dated April 2, 2002.