I received the final list of results from the Secretary today.  Go to “New England Results” to see them.

(Note:  Sorry about the problem with the link…I just fixed it – BEB – 5:45a 07/29/08)

Here is an edited version of my tape to show most of the horses in the class.[kml_flashembed movie="http://youtube.com/v/qMyATQHsXdk" width="425" height="350" wmode="transparent" /]

I was having an email discussion with a friend and the topic surfaced as to whether Northampton show grounds needed to be updated to be more exhibitor-friendly. 

Although I haven’t been involved in the Morgan horse world for a terribly long time, I have been told that the New England show is steeped with history and tradition and was considered “The National” show for many years.  What I find interesting is that not only the show itself that holds this mystique, but a major contributing factor is the  location.  At one time, I believe, the show was moved to a what was considered a better facility.  However, it was moved back to Northampton at the request of a large percent of exhibitors and owners (Please let me know if this isn’t correct, but I think I heard that story at one time).

More than once, however, I have also heard that, while this show can be magical, it can also be a disaster.  People have told me about such things as flooding of the stalls and main ring, and lack of warm up spaces (especially when it is rainy weather) when the indoor ring is in use.

So I want to know…Do you think that, given the Morgan History it holds, the  grounds deserved some repair and updating?  Or do you think that if any changes are made it will somehow mar those old memories?   Also if you do think updates are needed, what changes would you make if you could?

Hi,

I have a brand-new show horse—two months with us—and one that shows some promise.   But she’s new to us,  and I just started showing again after a long hiatus.  Since this is our “practice year,” we still have some rough edges to smooth off.   I’m not a novice rider nor is she a novice horse.

Here’s what I’m throwing out to the wonderful Morgan community: what do I say to non-horse *friends* who are constantly hounding me about how we placed at a  particular show (all A-rated)?  They don’t understand the ups and downs of competition and are bringing me more down than I surely need to be.  We were reserve grand champions at our first two shows  but fighting to stay alive at world-class New England.  I just don’t know what to tell people and feel like I shouldn’t be under so much outside pressure to win immediately…  I know I ride fairly well and have a fairly nice horse but am having some trouble dealing with John Q.  Public, as well as my family.  Any thoughts or advice from the competitively sports-minded?  Thanks!

Does anyone know of some really good restaurants near the Jubilee show? Are there any “must go” places for either the food or ambience?

With all the excitement over New England going on, I don’t want people to think I forgot about the other shows being held in other parts of the country.  I do have requests in to the various Show Secretaries to have them sent to me but haven’t heard back from anyone as of yet.  I will be sure to post them if and when I get them.