Raleigh, N.C., - Although Raleigh’s premier spring equine event began on the second day of Spring, it definitely felt like old man winter just wasn’t willing to give it up. Very cold temperatures throughout the weekend made the trip from the barns to the warm up ring uncomfortable but once inside the Governor James B. Hunt Horse Complex at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, the competition in most divisions was hot.
The ninth annual Raleigh Spring Premier Horse Show got off to a busy start on Thursday morning, March 21, and concluded with an exciting five-entry Five-Gaited Championship on Saturday evening, March 23. Merrill Murray judged the Saddlebreds, Hackney ponies and roadster horses and ponies. Anne Judd judged the Morgan divisions and equitation. She also took on the task of marking the card for Saturday afternoon’s academy classes.
Mary Lynn Whitley was the USAE Steward and Wyatt Lilly announced the classes. Dale Stone was the organist and Bob Moseder was the official photographer. Horse Videos, Inc., served as videographers, Steve Wilson was grounds and stable superintendent, and Wayne Murray was the farrier.
Ray Cloninger, show manager, was again ably assisted in the busy horse show office by entry secretary Barbara Woodlief and show secretary Joyce Wilson. Cloninger was pleased with this year’s turnout, “We had a successful show, despite the change in the weather, and thanks to all our exhibitors we’ll be able to contribute to our charities Hospice of Wake County and North Carolina veterinary Medical Foundation, Inc. Being able to cope with the weather is one of the advantages of having an indoor facility.” He continued by saying, “In two years we’ll be able to rotate forward with our dates which should mean warmer weather but we still had a great turnout with almost 800 entries this year.”
True southern hospitality is a trademark of the show and exhibitors again this year were able to enjoy coffee, donuts and pastries each morning courtesy of Harry and Mary Daughtry. The horse show sponsored a welcome party on Thursday evening after the last class. Friday evening’s exhibitor’s party, always a popular event, was sponsored by Currie Horse Transport, Quail Corners Shopping Center, Barnmaster, Inc., and Raleigh Spring Premier. Magnolia Stables sponsored the Saturday afternoon youth pizza party and Ingleside Farm had an ice cream social on Saturday night after the show.
With a full slate of competitive classes for Saddlebreds, Morgans, Hackney’s and roadsters as well as equitation and academy divisions, Raleigh Spring Premier provided something for everyone and showcased the talented horses and riders that compete on the Carolinas circuit.
For the complete show story, see the printed edition of Saddle Horse Report dated April 1, 2002.