by Katherine Hansil
FLETCHER, N.C. - The Asheville Lions Club Benefit Horse Show celebrated its 26th anniversary on May 13-16. Held at the beautiful Western North Carolina Agricultural Center, only minutes from both Asheville and Hendersonville, the show has been touted as little Louisville over the years and this year was no exception as current and past world’s champions came together. It is also a place for new stars to emerge and when you mix that in with the proven champions, Asheville is the place to be as the show season hits high gear.
As always, Ray Cloninger and his terrific staff did a great job kicking off the show on Wednesday evening with a full schedule of classes. With a break in the schedule on Thursday morning, exhibitors enjoyed taking in the sights, shopping and restaurants. Everyone enjoyed the show’s hospitality with coffee jumpstarting the morning and the delicious barbecue during Friday evening’s exhibitors’ party. Once again on Thursday, the avid golf players among the exhibitors and trainers took to the course for the annual Carolina Futurity Golf Tournament. For the last three years, the foursome led by Doug Shiflet claimed the top honor but this year the foursome of Susan Whittington, Carol Addison, Randy James and Chris Bishop unseated them (Doug Shiflet, Shane Shiflet, Rich Smith and Tyler Miles) in a playoff. Shiflet wasn’t left out of the awards as both he and Tyler Miles earned closest to the pin.
During the week, the Carolina Futurity held its silent auction with great items up for bid like trips, artwork, horse equipment and more. Once again, Bill Whitley held center court as the pigs flew during Friday and Saturday evenings’ sessions.
And so it goes, day by day, class after class, some of the favorites from last season as well as new stars from the 26th annual Asheville Lions Club Charity Horse Show set the stage for what we have to look forward to this show season.
Wednesday
Wednesday evening began with the magnificent amateur fine harness horses parading through the gate. With his high head and refined beauty, Joe Friday marched into the winner’s circle with Helen Rosburg. Capturing the reserve title was leg-waving Hoof Prince with Janet Kellett.
Next down victory lane was Chantel Coetzee with Prophet’s Song. The beautiful mare with her long swan-like neck carried out the Three-Gaited 15.2 & Under blue ribbon for owner Joan Hamilton. Kathy Jones garnered the red ribbon with Daimler.
Lynda Freseth had Heartland Expectation in top form in the Open Harness Pony for the unanimous win for Priscilla Gise. Reserve honors went to Seamair Sensation and John Wrather under the direction of Janet Crampton-Herd.
The Amateur-Ladies Three-Gaited entries marched through the gate next with a magnificent class of horses and riders. The well-matched team of Juliette’s Deja Blue and Andrea Athanasuleas earned the top honors unanimously with a flawless performance. Reserve honors went to the multi-titled CH Sue She with Ericka Nelson who was fresh off wins from Bonnie Blue last week. A strong third went to Conway and Sara McDonald in their debut in the division.
Busting into the ring next were the Amateur Road Horse teams. With form and speed, Cookie Monster and Mark Catron garnered the blue ribbon under the direction of Steve Hanks. Hanks was also connected to the reserve titleholder Matt-T-Tup as he brought the fluid moving Standardbred on the scene just a few seasons ago. This night owner David Crockett was on the lines.
The pace slowed down a bit as Maria Gilman had the high headed Master And Commander parading around the ring in the Open Three-Gaited Park. With all three judges approval, they made their way to the winner’s circle for Barbara Woods. Carrying out the reserve ribbon was CH Ya-Ya with Dena Lopez in the irons for Dorothy Anderson and Elizabeth Shatner.
Next through the gate was the Open Five-Gaited Mare with two Callaway’s Blue Norther daughters battling it out for the top spot. Earning the victory was the powerful Callaway’s Winning Ways with Redd Crabtree in the irons for Leatherwood Stud. Debbie Foley presented Callaway’s Karla to the reserve ribbon for Jo Ann Griffin.
The refined Hackney ponies were in next for the Open Hackney Pony with four talented teams making the gate call. John and Charlotte Wrather have a great string of ponies with Janet Crampton-Herd including the magnificent Seamair Simply Awesome who triumphed unanimously with a flawless performance. Carrying the red ribbon back to Crockett Springs was Black Merlin with Deborah Koning.
Five competitive teams hit the ring next for the UPHA Pink Ribbon Ladies Five-Gaited. Deborah Butler and Pour Some Sugar On Me fit the ladies division well. Butler kept the bright and mannered mare racking and trotting with ease to win the class unanimously. Reserve honors went to the elegant CH Diamond’s Hope with Sarah Longworth.
On the schedule next was the Limit Five-Gaited with six competing for the title. In 2008, New York’s Real Magic caught trainer Larry Hodge’s eye after winning the novice class at Midwest with Bob Brison. Just a few months later Hillcroft Farm purchased the flashy chestnut. On Wednesday, he made his first appearance of the season with Neil Visser in the irons to best the competition with a solid performance. Clark Clouse was aboard J. Crew, who was a star in the gaited division at River Ridge a few weeks ago, for the reserve title with a first place vote for Dr. Tina Mayes.
The elegant over two three-gaited horses entered the ring next. He’s A Jim Dandy topped the class with Clark Clouse in the irons for Bullet Concrete. This would the bright chestnut’s only appearance of the show. Reserve honors along with a first place vote went back to Ruth Gimpel Stables with Wee Pee’s Storm and Ali DeGray.
Unanimously Callaway’s Character Counts was next to the winner’s circle in the Junior Park Pleasure with owner Bill Walsh presenting the sporty gray son of Callaway’s Capital News. Nikki Immonen was in the irons for Denese Patch for the reserve title with Madeira’s Fox.
The pace picked up as the Limit Roadster To Bike burst through the gate. Mark Turner was behind the bold moving Raising The Bar for the unanimous win for Raymond Shively. Jon Walker presented the impressive Iamnotacow for new owner Debra Clark to garner the red streamers.
In the Amateur Five-Gaited, it was a battle between some of the best teams in the country. Newcomer Ava Gardner was like a little engine for Ashley Alden as they racked and trotted pass after pass for the win. Always a top performer, CH Callaway’s Banner Headline captured the reserve title along with a first place vote. CH Breaking News earned a strong third, also taking a first place vote.
CH Our Charming Lady is the epitome of a ladies three-gaited horse. Even though she was the lone entry, she did not disappoint as she marched down the rail with Mary Orr for Donna and Jack Finch, never putting a foot or an ear out of place.
The gentlemen had their turn in the spotlight next with four nice entries vying for the Amateur Gentlemen Five-Gaited. With an exceptional performance, the expressive Twilight Maxamillion unanimously captured the blue with Josh Wall in the irons under the direction of Kim and Peter Cowart. Reserve honors went to CH Colonel Hoss and Harold Denton now in their second show together.
The drivers returned to the show ring for the Open Road Pony. Carrying out the blue was the powerful Seize The Moment with Ruth Gimpel on the lines for Helen and James Rosburg. Reserve honors went to Karl Bridgeman’s Sha-Boom with Lewis Eckard.
In the largest class of the session, 10 top entries made the gate call for the Adult Five-Gaited Show Pleasure. For the fifth year in a row, and the third year with Stefanie Sanchez, CH Stonewall’s Stargate owned the ring to win the class unanimously. Reserve honors went to the sporty Midnight Senor. Melody Murphy, who always as the best time while showing, presented the Matt Shiflet-trained entry.
The evening closed out with six stallion/geldings competing in their open five-gaited qualifier. After all the work was done, it was Callaway’s Champ Clark who triumphed over the competition for new owner Harold Denton of Bullet Concrete. Clark Clouse presented the 10-year-old gelding, who is a full brother to the multi-titled Callaway’s Frank James, in his debut appearance. Garnering the red streamers was the always-exciting Thunder Crackin’ with Neil Visser presenting for Elizabeth Goth LLC.
Thursday
Thursday evening began with the elegance of equitation. The NHS Good Hands was first of many for the long evening schedule including 23 classes. After the completion of rail work and pattern work, it was Callie Smith who was called down victory lane. Smith had a polished performance and the win was even more special as she was back aboard Miss Majesticness. Reserve honors went to stablemate Sarah Lawson aboard Feng Shui.
The ladies held court in their fine harness class. Pi’ece De R’esistance lived up to his name as he paraded around the ring with his lofty trot and into the winner’s circle with Patricia Bonati. Reserve honors went to Sharyn Lackey with her new partner, Father McKenzie.
Elegance continued as the Amateur Three-Gaited class made the gate call with seven nice entries. With unanimous consent it was Enough About You and Lynda Norman besting the competition with a solid performance. Reserve honors went to the punchy Size Me Up with Deborah Visser.
Next in was a strong class of Hackney Pleasure Driving Pony contenders. After the work was completed an elated Tamra Arndt drove Heartland Parade Time to the winner’s circle after an exceptional performance. The toppy Heartland Stepaside captured the reserve title along with a first place vote with Helen Rosburg on the lines.
The ponies continued to be in the spotlight as six road pony teams raced through the gate. Showing speed and form, Calvin Hobbs was expertly guided by Kevin Ingram to the winner’s circle for the unanimous amateur blue. Jeoff Bodenhorst was on the lines to accept the red ribbon for Regal’s Star Attraction LF’s performance for the Lenux Stables banner.
In the Junior Three-Gaited Park, it was the refined black son of How Fortunate, Follow The Sun, earning the unanimous win with Chantel Coetzee for James Orr. Reserve honors went to Mountjoy’s Vixen with Clark Clouse in the irons for Charles Campbell.
Five nice gaited ponies were in next with their junior exhibitor riders. Unanimously winning the well-filled class was Our Sonflower with Tyler DeVore catch riding. DeVore had the pony racking and trotting up a storm under the direction of Matt Shiflet and for owner Hickory Hill Farm LLC. Cagle James continues to put together great shows with Little Lord Huntly and this day was not exception as they confidently picked up the red ribbon.
The blue continued for Matt Shiflet Stables as Andrea Athanasuleas directed the handsome grey Jessie Cole to the winner’s circle in the Adult Country Pleasure with a flawless performance. The incomparable CH Riva Diva who always turns in a top performance garnered the red streamers with Donna Finch.
The junior exhibitors returned to the show ring with their three-gaited partners. Earning the unanimous win was the well-matched DeLovely team of A Travelin’ Man and Ellen Medley Wright. Stablemate Show Baby Show with Christina Collis carried out the red streamers while the new team of Heired Up and Kaitlyn Creekmore scored a strong third.
DeLovely continued their successful evening with a winning performance from Arrowhead’s Dreamcatcher and Deborah Butler. Butler had the bright chestnut looking better than ever for the unanimous win in the UPHA Pink Ribbon Amateur Ladies Five-Gaited. (SA) Kalarama’s The Ultimate Choice was a star just a few weeks ago with Neil Visser. This evening, Deborah Visser took over the riding duties and with a bold performance, the team carried out the red streamers for The Ultimate Choice Group.
Marching through the gate next were the three-gaited pony teams. CH The Attache Orchid seems to know her job and do her job every time she hits the ring and this time was no exception as she carried Hunter Chancellor unanimously to the winner’s circle for the third DeLovely win in a row. Reserve honors went to the elegant Faizah. Drew Taylor Hewitt handled the catch riding duties aboard the bay beauty for trainer Suzy Shiflet and owner Linda Weber.
In the Denver Five-Gaited, it was Dena and Alyssa Lopez’s entry Let’s Talk that captured the top spot. The son of Sir William Robert put on an eye-catching performance with Dena Lopez in the irons. The Caramac daughter Callaway’s Annabel Allison garnered the red streamers along with a first place vote with Debbie Foley expertly presenting.
Another set of three-gaited horses made their way to the ring for the novice qualifier and the anticipated debut of The Road Less Traveled under saddle. A star throughout the Carolinas with previous trainer Mark Wilson as a three-year-old, Matt Shiflet selected the It’s Hammertime stallion for Stacey Halloran’s Gaited Inc., in July 2008. Shiflet continued to successfully campaign him in harness in 2008 but this evening he debuted him under saddle and the exquisite liver chestnut did not disappoint as he moved with ease, park-trotting pass after pass and into the winner’s circle unanimously. Bill Waller presented the high-headed black CH Harlem Town son, Harlem’s Black Tie Affair, to the reserve title for Jamie Hitchin.
The junior exhibitors were back for their five-gaited show pleasure qualifier. CH Sunken Treasure and Drew Taylor Hewitt are on a roll, fresh off wins at J.D. Massey and Raleigh Spring, and added the Asheville qualifying blue to their list. CH She’s Gone Blonde and Callie Smith racked into the reserve title and a first place vote in their only appearance of the show.
Four top horses battled it out in the Open Fine Harness. With each bringing his or her own game to the ring, it was Elegant Dreamcatcher topping the class with her high head carriage and dynamic trot. Lynda Freseth presented the Tom Brock-owned entry in her only appearance of the week. Reserve honors went to the exciting Castledream with Misdee Wrigley Miller on the lines.
It is hard to believe that CH Another Bay is 19 years old this season, especially since he always brings his top game into the show ring. He and Sara McDonald confidently rode to victory in the Amateur Three-Gaited Park. Meadowlark Jubilee and Morgan King from Judd Stables put together a solid performance for the reserve title.
The Carolinas witnessed third generation Charles Gassen on the lines of Cappuccino at Raleigh in their debut. This week you could tell they had a few more drives behind them as they showed speed and form for the unanimous AHHS Road Pony Medallion win for proud grandmother Brenda Kelly. Audrey Sigmon partnered up with Sweet Impression under the direction of Lewis Eckard for the reserve for her proud family, Joe and Sharon Cook.
The driving continued with the Show Pleasure Driving qualifier where James Rosburg presented Finest Material to a solid show for the unanimous blue. Reserve honors went to Reedann’s Phine By Me with Dr. Ginger Reagan on the lines for Marion and Hugh Bryan.
Show pleasure continued as the Three-Gaited Show Pleasure 36 & Over entered the ring with nine teams vying for the blue. CH Tax Man debuted in the division just a month ago to make the transition from the park division with ease. He carried Peggy Councilman down victory lane unanimously with a rock-solid performance. Reserve honors went to the flashy Callaway’s Northern Fling with Melody Murphy in the irons.
Switching gears, the Open Roadster To Bike erupted through the gate. Raymond Shively was on the lines with Emerson trotting the turns with ease for the unanimous win. Reserve honors went to the bold moving Trio Bolero and Debbie Foley for Tom Caisse.
Slowing down, the Country Pleasure Driving teams brought a calm to the atmosphere. With her mannered performance, Harlem’s Worldly Lady garnered the blue streamers with Helen Rosburg on the lines in their only appearance. Reserve honors, along with a first place vote, went to the Boone’s Farm team of Startalyst and Ann Cannon.
The younger age group of adults made the way in next for their three-gaited show pleasure qualifier. Topping the 18-35 qualifier unanimously was CH Teuschers. Travis Van Zetten was aboard the handsome chestnut to earn his third win in two shows back to back. Katie Young was thrilled with her reserve performance aboard CH Thundersnow for the High Caliber banner.
The evening closed out with the spectacular Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited qualifier. Platinum’s New Look and Hunter Chancellor were on fire as they moved from gait to gait for the unanimous win. Nipping at their heels, however, was the hard riding Tyler DeVore and his new partner Out With The Ladies. This explosive team carried out the red streamers.
Friday Morning
First through the gate on Friday morning was the Novice Rider Three-Gaited Show Pleasure contenders. Taking home the blue was Classic With A Twist with Jennifer Shell presenting for Deborah Koning. Reserve honors went to the flashy He’s Real Bad with Patricia Bonati.
Topping the Limit Western Country Pleasure was the beautiful gray Magnolia Morning. Suzanne Heizer presented the Winsdown Hi Octane daughter for the unanimous win. Reserve honors went to the gray gelding, also by Winsdown Hi Octane, Gris with owner Kay Marschel aboard.
Ellen Medley Wright proved her talents with a flawless performance in the 14-17 Saddle Seat Equitation for the unanimous win. Meredith Macy, under the direction of Mary Orr, carried out the red streamers.
An Amateur Hackney Pony class was added to the morning schedule with three top entries vying for the title. The high-stepping Black Merlin captured the blue with Deborah Koning on the lines for David Crockett. James Rosburg had Kilbro’s Code Red in top form to earn the reserve along with a first place vote.
It may have only been a one-horse class but Real Action put on a show in the Three-Year-Old Three-Gaited. With a long swan-like neck and four-cornered trot, the Desert’s Supreme Memories son marched to the winner’s circle with Peter Cowart in the irons for the McKenzie/Plunkett partnership.
The young riders were in next for the 12 & Under Walk & Trot Show Pleasure. Topping the class was the bright Miraculous Odds with Alexandria Cedrone under the direction of Boone’s Farm. CH Santana’s Night Moves, with Shea Washburn, garnered the red streamers for the High Caliber banner.
Always a consistent performer, Mo Rhythm never put an ear back has she made her way to the winner’s circle with Maria Gilman in the Open Park Pleasure for Christine Freeman. Trimmed with a flaxen mane and tail, Spooling Up was eye-catching to capture the reserve title with Clark Clouse in the irons for Barbara Gaynor.
Oh So Debonheir earned the next trip down victory lane. With Carol Addison aboard, the Everything Will son won the UPHA Park Pleasure Classic for owner and breeder Asa Stafford and Carol Addison.
Picking up the pace, the Novice Road Pony qualifier sped through the gate next. John Wrather was on the lines with Prince’s Performer for the unanimous win with Steve Gassen presenting Regal’s One More Promise LF to the reserve for Nikki Lawing.
The novice riders were back to the ring for their country pleasure qualifier. In only their second show together, Highpoint’s Grandee and Lisa Austin confidently rode to the blue under the direction of John Whalen. Callaway’s Due North and Debbie Grant earned the reserve title along with a first place vote.
Ashley Stewart was thrilled with her performance aboard The Admiral’s Genie in the English Pleasure Pony. With unanimous approval, they made their way to the winner’s circle. Reserve honors went to the cute team of Sunkissed Supreme and Allie Poovey.
The Wrathers continued their successful morning as Charlotte Wrather had her time to shine in the Amateur Harness Pony. On the lines behind Oliver Twist, they captured the unanimous blue for the Burnscroft banner. Helen Rosburg garnered the red streamers with Rhapsody In Bay.
Carolina owners showed off their three-gaited horses next with the classic looking Callaway’s Paisano triumphing over the competition with Jenna Norton in the irons. Reserve honors went Daimler with Kathy Cook.
The road ponies were back for their junior qualifier. Topping the class was the exciting new contender Heartland Pursuit. Ronnie Graham presented the high-headed, high-stepping pony for Helen Rosburg. Reserve honors went to the eye-catching Heartland Funny Girl with Peter Cowart on the lines for Caitlin Leith.
Speed continued with the Roadster Under Saddle class bursting through the gate. Matt Shiflet had Big N Rich trotting the turns at each gear for the unanimous win for Chappy Chapman. Reserve honors went to the multi-titled Where Are We Now with Dr. Brian Garrett.
In the Carolina Owned Five-Gaited, No Fear racked and trotted up a storm for the win for the second year in a row. This year, Steve Gassen was aboard the expressive chestnut for Doris Crumpler. Fresh off a win at the Asheville Spring Classic, Lewis Eckard presented Rebekah Cloninger’s new purchase, Captain Charisma, for the reserve title along with a first place vote.
Macey Joan Miles confidently proved her skills in the 13 & Under Saddle Seat Equitation for the unanimous win aboard CH Callaway’s Coraleen. Reserve honors went to Ellie Kangur under the direction of Mary Orr.
The session closed out with the Three-Year-Old Park. Fresh of a win at J.D. Massey, the dark bay beauty Harlem’s Simply Irresistible captured the blue unanimously with Cydney Cutchall presenting for Wendy Coley. Reserve honors went back to West Win with Night Out With The Boss and Jackie Ware.
Friday Evening
The evening began with the Road Pony Under Saddle. With blue and red silks flying, Perfect Offering and Jake Butts raced to the winner’s circle. Picking up the reserve and a first place vote were Seamair’s Nobility and Tanner Parham.
The junior exhibitors continued to hold court as the 10 & Under Walk & Trot Equitation made the gate call. Ashley Creekmore debuted last week at Bonnie Blue aboard her sister’s partner for the past few years, Imagination Station, earning two reserves. This evening, with a confident performance, the youngest Hollow Haven star captured the unanimous win. Already enjoying success at Raleigh and J.D. Massey, Cashlyn Lovell carried out the red ribbon.
With her breeding behind her, Sir William Robert x CH Dancing Up A Storm LCC, Roberta Belle is bred to be a harness star. She parade around the ring and into the winner’s circle with Kathy Capsuto on the lines for the unanimous win. Homebred Salemtown’s Irreplaceable, with Deborah Koning, earned the reserve title for David Crockett.
In the Hackney Pleasure Driving Pony Championship, the tables turned as Heartland Stepaside and Helen Rosburg drove down victory lane with an exceptional performance. Heartland Parade Time and Tamra Arndt had a solid drive for the reserve title.
Cloverleaf Turner Jake was in top form for the Junior Three-Gaited. With Quintus VanderSpuy aboard, the Red Hawk Red Hawk son carried out the blue ribbon for Nancy Chauvin.
Willie Angel is quickly making a name for himself in the western division. Already with wins from Kentucky Spring Premier and May Classic, Dave Lopez directed the bay to the win at Asheville. The trimmed in chrome Monsignor with the well-turned out Marie Gwinn earned the reserve title.
The thrill seekers were back for the Youth Roadster To Bike. Unanimously racing to victory was the bold moving Roar Of Thunder with Ali DeGray. Reserve honors went to the multi-titled Royal Count with Rebekah Cloninger.
John Wrather added another title to his list with the winning performance in the Hackney Pony Championship with Seamair Simply Awesome for Charlotte Wrather.
Six nice 14-17 Three-Gaited Show Pleasure teams made their way into the ring next. Capturing the blue in their only appearance was Got No Shame with Rachel Machamer presenting for Jeff and Kelly Williamson. Earning the reserve title with a first place vote was He’s A Royal Pepper and Alexandra Lawson for James Williams.
The junior exhibitors returned to the ring with their park entries. First Class Heir and Brianna Meyer have come together quickly this season. Already with wins at Mid America Spring and Bonnie Blue, the team won this night in unanimous fashion. Always a favorite, CH Justa Rascal captured the reserve title with Camille Cowart.
Matt T Tup moved up a notch, unanimously driving away with the Amateur Roadster To Bike Championship with David Crockett on the lines. Cookie Monster and Mark Catron picked up the reserve title.
Once again it was the battle of the bays in the Amateur Ladies Three-Gaited Championship with Juliette’s Deja Blue and CH Sue-She earning the top two spots. Just as in the qualifier, the refined Juliette’s Deja Blue, with Andrea Athanasuleas, made the victory pass. CH Sue-She powerfully trotted to the reserve title with Ericka Nelson.
Matt Shiflet had quite a night. After directing the last team to the winner’s circle he jumped into the fine harness buggy for the Junior Fine Harness behind Tribeca. With wins from Raleigh and J.D. Massey already, the I’m A New Yorker son unanimously wore the blue for Gaited, Inc. In his debut, Leatherwood’s Sabi (Leatherwood’s Starlight x Candle In The Wind) earned the reserve title with Redd Crabtree handling the driving duties.
The Walk & Trot Country Pleasure is a class that is picking up popularity throughout the Carolinas. Simply Striking and Haley Griffin were cute as a button together for the unanimous win for the Lenux Stables banner. Reserve honors went to the Cash Lovell-trained Kalarama’s Memorable and Emily McKay.
CH Titleist Symbol marches down rail after rail with Rachel Machamer and this night was no exception as they unanimously won the ASHAF Youth Show Pleasure Driving Challenge. Reserve honors went to the Sharon Anderson-owned and bred Breath Of Heir with grandson Jake Butts on the lines.
With poise and precision, Callie Smith captured the next blue ribbon in the USEF Medal. Stablemate Hunter Chancellor aboard Can You Hear Me Now carried out the reserve with a first place vote.
The competitive Adult Five-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship made the next gate call. For the fourth year in a row, CH Stonewall’s Stargate outperformed the competition. With Stefanie Sanchez aboard, he wore the tricolor out unanimously. Jenna Norton was thrilled with her ride aboard Desert’s Supreme Kid to earn them the reserve title.
Master And Commander repeated their winning performance to earn the Three-Gaited Park Championship with Maria Gilman presenting for Barbara Woods. CH Ya-Ya and Dena Lopez garnered the reserve title and first place vote for the Shatner/Anderson owners.
At one point in their lives, the top four horses in the 13 & Under Three-Gaited Show Pleasure have been part of the Hollow Haven show string. Brookhill’s King Of Kool and CH My Grande once showed under the Hollow Haven banner with Heir’s Halo and CH Shamrock’s Asagi currently calling Hollow Haven home. With each one working hard, it was Brookhill’s King Of Kool besting the competitive class with Jessica Wuesthofen riding under the direction of the DeLovely team. CH My Grande and Cagle James continued to enjoy success by taking home the red ribbon with a first place vote. Heir’s Halo with Kaitlyn Creekmore and CH Shamrock’s Asagi with Brianna Meyer rounded out the top four.
The leg-waving Hoof Prince triumphed next, winning the Amateur Fine Harness Championship with Janet Kellett. Reserve honors went to Dark Vader and Sandra Kaiser.
In the Junior Exhibitor Country Pleasure, Uwharrie’s Patriot Sage and Laura Plant had the winning ride for the High Caliber banner. Under the direction of Julia and Steve Joyce, Harlem’s Miss Abigail and Bree Zandy earned the reserve title along with a first place vote.
Mark Turner thrilled the crowd with his death defying drive in the Roadster To Wagon. Turner presented the powerhouse Raising The Bar to the win for DeLovely Farm.
DeLovely added another blue to the banner after Taylor Newton’s performance in the UPHA 14-17 Challenge Cup.
The last class of the evening was the Junior Five-Gaited with five competitive entries. Topping the class was the Treiber Saddlebreds LLC-entry Henry Hudson with Neil Visser in the irons. Redd Crabtree debuted with Callaway’s No More Mr. Nice Guy, a full sibling to Callaway’s Winning Ways, earning the reserve title with a first place vote for Leatherwood Stud LLC.
Saturday Morning
The UPHA Walk & Trot Challenge Cup began the Saturday morning session with a solid performance from Cashlyn Lovell for the blue ribbon aboard CH Aces And Eights. Jennifer Hutson, under the direction of Janet Crampton, earned the reserve.
Equitation continued with the UPHA Pleasure Equitation Challenge Cup. DeLovely-instructed Sarah Lawson was flawless to earn the unanimous victory. Accepting the red ribbon was Meredith Macy under the direction of Mary Orr.
The Show Pleasure Driving Championship was next to make the gate call with four nice teams. The top two horses from the junior exhibitor division battled it out again with CH Titleist Symbol and Rachel Machamer unanimously earning the tricolor. Breath Of Heir drove away with the reserve with Sharon Anderson on the lines for this drive.
Busting through the gate were the junior exhibitor road pony teams for their championship, and just as in the qualifier, Cappuccino and Charles Gassen topped the class with Sweet Impress and Audrey Sigmon garnering the red streamers along with a first place vote.
Hunter Chancellor showed off CH The Attache Orchid not only with her riding skills but also with her new, bright pink day coat. The team won the Three-Gaited Pony Championship unanimously. Reserve honors went back to the DeVore banner with Manhattan’s Irish Cream and Dylan Hines.
Startalyst and Ann Cannon were pleasure perfect for the Country Pleasure Driving Championship title with CH Dr. Deker and Debbie Marcum carrying away the reserve title.
Simply Striking and Haley Griffin made their second victory pass of the show when they won the Junior Exhibitor Walk & Trot Country Pleasure Championship. Kalarama’s Memorable and Emily McKay earned the reserve.
Mary Orr was thrilled to direct Uwharrie’s Patriot Sage and Laura Plant to the Junior Exhibitor Country Pleasure Championship win. Harlem’s Miss Abigail and Bree Zandy captured the reserve with a first place vote.
Rebekah Cloninger and Royal Count hit a new gear as they unanimously raced away with the Youth Roadster To Bike Championship win with Ninety Proof and Jennifer Shell accepting the reserve.
Macey Joan Miles returned to the winner’s circle this time to earn the unanimous win in the UPHA 11 & Under Challenge Cup. Ellie Kangur took the reserve back to the High Caliber banner.
The Admiral’s Genie and Ashley Stewart’s number was called to win the English Pleasure Pony Championship under the direction of Cash Lovell after a solid performance. Earning their second reserve of the week was Sunkissed Supreme and Allie Poovey.
CH Santana’s Night Moves and Shea Washburn moved up a notch to capture the 12 & Under Walk & Trot Pleasure Championship with Miraculous Odds and Alexandria Cedrone claiming the reserve title.
Speeding through the gate next was the highly competitive Roadster Under Saddle Championship. Switching up from the qualifier, Where Are We Now and Dr. Brian Garrett returned for the win while Matt Shiflet directed Big N Rich to the reserve with a first place vote.
For the second year in a row, CH MMMBop and Allie Wellington came back to the Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship, riding harder than ever, and for the second year in a row they scored the unanimous tricolor. CH Sunken Treasure and Drew Taylor Hewitt worked hard for the reserve title.
Matt Shiflet Stables earned another title with the unanimous win from Our Sonflower and Tyler DeVore in the Five-Gaited Pony Championship, while the Drowning Creek-team of Little Lord Huntly and Cagle James captured the reserve.
The road ponies were back for their Road Pony to Wagon class. Ronnie Graham had the 2008 World’s Champion Bud Light stroking for the unanimous win. Reserve honors went to Sugar Daddy and Eddie Case.
Brianna Meyer has had two huge weeks. With another great performance with First Class Heir, she captured her fourth victory pass including two from Bonnie Blue and the qualifier earlier in the week. CH Justa Rascal and Camille Cowart were on fire to earn the reserve title.
The session closed out with the fast-paced Road Pony Under Saddle Championship. Topping the class was Seamair’s Nobility and Tanner Parham in his trademark lightening bolt silks. Perfect Offering and Jake Butts claimed the reserve with a first place vote.
Saturday Afternoon
Saturday afternoon belonged to the academy riders. With Robert Gardiner marking the cards, riders from Boone’s Farm, Cash Lovell, Chestnut Lane, Hickory Lane, High Caliber, Johnny Lucas, Lenux Stables and Wind Crest competed. The following earned titles: Kate Redding, Tiffany Hager, Summer Blackwelder, Melinda Tedder, Carolyn Eanes, Sydney Cearley, Emily Stokes, Olivia Knox, Melissa Chatto, Alexandra Tucci, Carley Packard, Graham Troxell, Tiffany Knox, Chloe Marion, Macy Blake, Mackenzie Todd, Sarah Stanley, Avery Rose McCutcheon, Gracyn Mansfield, Jozy Unal, Mallory Mansfield, Sydney Beason, Claire Badgley, Merrick Semans, Audrey Kim, Ainsley Marion and Parker Todd.
Saturday Evening
Filling the Saddle Seat Equitation Championship were three of DeLovely’s best. With elegance and precision, Ellen Medley Wright captured the tricolor for the second year in a row. Reserve honors went to Taylor Newton while Hunter Chancellor earned a strong yellow ribbon.
The second year in a row theme continued as CH Our Charming Lady captured her second Ladies Three-Gaited Championship at Asheville Lions Club. Lady Avalon and Phyllis Brookshire came back strong for the reserve title under the Matt Shiflet banner.
CH Another Bay turned in another winning performance for the unanimous Amateur Three-Gaited Park Championship with Sara McDonald. In their division debut, More Than Enough and Lynda Norman moved up to capture the reserve title while the bright Meadowlark Jubilee and Morgan King rounded out the top three.
Allie Welling had quite a comeback week with both of her horses. She captured the 14-17 Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship aboard her beloved CH It’s Yabba Dabba Doo Time. Alex Foster was excited with her clean performance to earn a reserve title with CH Over Achiever.
Next up, Kevin Ingram drove Calvin Hobbs to the top ribbon unanimously in the Amateur Road Pony Championship with a dynamic showing. Smackdown and Rebekah Cloninger came back driving hard for the reserve title.
Switching spots, Size Me Up and Deborah Visser bested the competition while Enough About You and Lynda Norman claimed the reserve. Odyssey Mann and Terri Dolan captured a strong third along with a first place vote.
It was a battle to the finish in the Roadster To Bike Championship. In the end it was Emerson and Raymond Shively called to the winner’s circle. The strong Trio Bolero G captured the reserve title along with a first place vote with Debbie Foley on the lines for Tom Caisse.
Megan McClure did her homework from her qualifier and came back with CH Breaking News looking better than ever for the Amateur Five-Gaited Championship win. CH Callaway’s Banner Headline earned his second reserve of the week with Janet Kellett.
Next in was the 13 & Under Three-Gaited Show Pleasure and with unanimous consent, Brookhill’s King Of Kool and Jessica Wuesthofen captured the tricolor. CH My Grande and Cagle James once again captured the reserve in the deep class with Heir’s Halo and Kaitlyn Creekmore garnering a competitive yellow ribbon.
In the Park Pleasure Championship, Mo Rhythm and Maria Gilman had another winning performance to sweep the division unanimously. Harlem’s Lunar Eclipse and Chantel Coetzee moved up for the reserve title for Joan Hamilton.
It has already been quite a season for Jessie Cole and Andrea Athanasuleas, and this evening they won their sixth class in a row with another magnificent performance. CH Riva Diva and Donna Finch earned the reserve title with Carolina Clay and Kaitlin Whatley making a strong ride for the yellow streamers.
The Junior Exhibitor Three-Gaited Championship was in next and A Travelin’ Man and Ellen Medley Wright were flawless for the unanimous win. Show Baby Show and Christina Collis claimed the reserve title to make it a one-two finish for DeLovely.
DeLovely continued to dominate as Arrowhead’s Dreamcatcher and Deborah Butler turned in another huge ride for the Amateur Ladies Five-Gaited Championship title. Hey Joe and Cydni Simmons hit the ring bright and bold for the reserve title under the direction of Tammy DeVore.
Lynda Freseth had Heartland Expectation tuned up for the Harness Pony Championship to earn the unanimous victory for Priscilla Gise. Seamair Sensation and John Wrather came back for the reserve title while Charlotte Wrather and Oliver Twist carried out the yellow streamers.
It was quite a night for Deborah Butler. With a quick change of numbers and horses, she was back for the Ladies Five-Gaited Championship aboard Pour Some Sugar On Me. With a solid performance, the DeLovely team earned the unanimous win. And again it was a DeVore team who earned the reserve spot with Lauren Pope riding Callaway’s Born A Winner for Jennifer Fisher.
The majestic fine harness horses were in next for the Fine Harness Championship. Misdee Wrigley Miller was thrilled with her drive behind Castledream for the win. The Tango Dancer, with his lofty trot, captured the reserve with Ronnie Graham for Helen and James Rosburg.
In the Over 36 Three-Gaited Show Pleasure Championship, CH Tax Man and Peggy Councilman had another exceptional show for the unanimous win. As in the qualifier, Callaway’s Northern Fling and Melody Murphy garnered the red streamers with My One Night Stand and Lisa Schlesinger claiming a strong third.
Marie Gwinn and Monsignor were in top form to move up and claim the next trip to the winner’s circle in the Western Country Pleasure Championship with Magnolia Morning and Suzanne Heizer claiming the reserve title.
The Road Less Traveled was one of the talks of the show after the Novice Three-Gaited qualifier and this evening he did not disappoint as Matt Shiflet had him marching down the rail for the Three-Gaited Championship win for Gaited, Inc. Reserve honors went to the multi-titled Wee Pee’s Storm with Ronnie Graham for Helen and James Rosburg.
The Junior Exhibitor Five-Gaited Championship was a hard fought and hugely competitive class of five horses, including the new contenders Blue Highway and Out With The Ladies and proven contenders Captain Roseridge, Platinum’s New Look and CH What’s The Whoopla. When the work was done it was "Tonto" [Platinum’s New Look] and Hunter Chancellor making their way to the winner’s circle unanimously. A thrilled Caitlin Leith picked up with reserve ribbon with a comeback ride aboard CH What’s The Whoopla while stablemate Captain Roseridge and Camille Cowart claimed the third spot. Blue Highway and Kelsey Olson were strong for the fourth while Out With The Ladies and Tyler DeVore put on a tremendous show for the pink ribbon.
The adults were back for the 18-35 show pleasure championship with CH Teuschers and Travis Van Zetten earning the top spot to sweep the division for the second week in a row. The Last Straw and Kaitlin Whatley came back strong for the reserve in their first year in the adult division.
The ponies made their last appearance of the show to vie for the Road Pony Championship. Once again, it was Seize The Moment in the spotlight as he fluidly moved to the winner’s circle with Ruth Gimpel for Helen and James Rosburg. Reserve honors went to Sha-Boom and Lewis Eckard for Karl Bridgeman.
The show closed out with a full Five-Gaited Championship. Callaway’s Karla and Debbie Foley made it look easy as they racked and trotted rail after rail for the win for Jo Ann Griffin. The sporty CH Carlswald Prince’s Dominoe, with Paul Boone in the irons, earned the reserve with a first place vote for Wendy Troyer with the bright J. Crew and Clark Clouse taking home the yellow ribbon for Dr. Tina Mayes.