2006 Granite State Morgan Horse Show
Friday, July 14, 2006
by Casey McDonald
DEERFIELD, N.H.- The 41st edition of the Granite State Morgan Horse Show, held June 23-25, in Deerfield, N.H., was once again a first-rate event under the management of Helen Fenton. Held at the country-like Deerfield Fairgrounds, Granite State featured a laid back atmosphere, complemented perfectly by friendly, yet strong competition. Mother Nature provided sunny skies before the rain moved in, but despite the wet weather many top teams graced the outdoor ring.
Several barns enjoyed three fun-filled and competitive days, and for the second year in a row stalls were sold out. Those in attendance included RAND, Moreland Farm, Taylor River, Cabot, Chrislar Farm, Timber Hill Stables, Hillcrest, Amazeen Stables, Northgate, Salem Farm, CPM Stables, Best of Both Worlds, JP Stables at Fox Meadow Farm, Belleweather, S & S Stables, Hunter’s Glen, Elsie Rodney, UVM Morgan Horse Farm, Winged Spur Ranch and Highover Morgans. The dressage and carriage divisions were once again well-attended, and the performance classes were filled with quality entries, many with regional, Grand National and world titles. Granite State also proves to be a wonderful show for young riders to gain experience with a number of lead line and walk/trot classes offered. The Friday night strawberry shortcake party and Saturday evening exhibitors’ party were a big hit, giving everyone a chance to let down and socialize with friends.
Lisa Cunningham Waller traveled north from Tennessee to officiate In-Hand, Saddle Seat Equitation, Park, English Pleasure, Classic Pleasure Saddle, Roadster and Lead Line Equitation, while Lawrence Thurber marked the cards in Classic Pleasure Driving, Hunter Pleasure, Western Pleasure, Hunter/Western Seat Equitation, Pleasure Driving, Road Hack, Lead Line Pleasure and Walk/Trot/Jog Hunt/Western Pleasure. Jane Sheehan was responsible for the dressage scoring and Audrey Bostwick expertly pinned the carriage division. Helen Fenton graciously made sure the event ran smoothly while Mary J. Wahl kept things organized in the office as show secretary. Peter Fenton’s smooth voice was heard over the loudspeaker, the duo of Grace Yaglou and Larry Wahl shared ringmaster duties, Mary Lynn Whitley served as the show steward and Ron Boucher ensured everything was orderly in the barn areas, serving as stable manager. Sara Foy returned as the popular youth contest coordinator, while Shirley Haas worked diligently as the dressage coordinator and Victoria Surr did another wonderful job as the carriage coordinator. Bob Moseder returned to center ring to catch the action on film as show photographer.
As the weekend came to a close, exhibitors and spectators had enjoyed a great combination of fun competition and great camaraderie. Be sure to attend Granite State next year for more of the same!
Complete show results can be found by clicking on SHOW RESULTS.
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