LEXINGTON, Ky. - Autumn is into full swing, with cooler temperatures in the morning and evenings. The leaves are starting to change into rich, deep colors. The brilliance of the season is everywhere, so where would you rather be, than in the heart of horse country?
Held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, the 15th annual Kentucky Fall Classic brought much activity to the horse park. What better place, than the breathtaking rolling hills lined with white fences, to hold a fall horse show?
sponsored by the UPHA Chapter 9 and FOX 56WDKY-TV Lexington, this show benefits Cardinal Hill Rehabilitational Hospital in Lexington. Much work is put into this show to make it an essential part of the fall show circuit. Melissa Moore and Jerry Hutson are two important elements that keep this show up and running as well as the hard work of Show Manager, Scarlett Mattson.
Held October 3-6, this show hosts two very important events for many young riders, the UPHA 10 and Under Walk/Trot Challenge Cup and the UPHA 11 and Under Challenge Cup.
Phase I of the 10 and Under division was held first thing on Saturday morning. The riders were all judged by three judges, William Greenwell, Anne Judd, and Gary Garone, on their rail work. At which time, the top ten were chosen to return later that afternoon in Phase II. Rachel Machamer, Brittany McGinnis, Gabriella Flynn, Lauren Ward, Amber Lynn Lowry, Nelson Gaker, Lauren Pyes, Grace Ann Walker, Elizabeth Dirth and Jenny Franson returned to the rail to be judged in Phase II. This talented young group really showed their stuff...riding their hearts out in both phases.
For the complete show story see the printed edition of Saddle Horse Report dated October 15, 2001.