The Cleveland Bay Classic Breed Show

September 17-18 2005
Peters Creek Farm , Social Circle Georgia

The Cleveland Bay Classic Breed Show was enjoyed by all who attended. Because of the light turnout, the event was moved from the International Horse Park in Conyers to Peters Creek Farm owned by Kevin and Margaret Johnson. The change in venue allowed for a more relaxed environment for both exhibitors and horses. We were also able to incorporate time for instruction by the judges for the competitors and spectators.

The judges were: Cecilia Lindsey, Jean Morgan and Marilyn Webster for the In-Hand; Cecilia Lindsey and Jean Morgan for the Hunter Classes; and Mary Lewis for the Dressage.

All three in-hand judges were open to explaining what they looked for and how the exhibitors should conduct themselves as the classes progressed Saturday morning. Following lunch, Cecilia gave an informative talk and demonstration on showing in-hand using Thomsonbrook Queen's Saga.

As the day progressed and everyone made their way to the hunter field, it became very clear that the judges expected a faster pace in the field from horse and rider than we are use to seeing in an American hunter ring. The course consisted of eight jumps. It was designed to give the horses a chance to stride out over natural terrain, mimicking the demands placed on a field hunter. After the second round of jumping the judges asked the competitors to open there horses up along a straight stretch to demonstrate a real hand gallop. Boy, can these CB's cover ground!

Sunday's dressage format allowed riders to ride their first test while Mary Lewis scored each movement. Then the riders were given 15 to 20 minutes of instruction to work on problems. Both riders and spectators could see improvements in the horses immediately. Riders were then scored on their second test.

I would like to thank all who attended, taking time out from their busy schedules to drive or fly down for a first time event.but most especially I would like to recognize Michelle and Rick Bergeron of Baton Rouge for making the 12 hour drive and staying the whole weekend even though events at home seemed to be spiraling out of control! For details call them. However, be aware they maybe "phone shell-shocked" and they may not pick up.

Special thanks to Robert Armstrong for preparing lunch each day, the Atlanta Beverage Company for donating the beer, Faye Mulvey for jumping in to help braid foals and scribing for our dressage judge, Colter Hunter and Scott Smith for being our jump crew, Rick Bergeron for having a fabulous camera with him and taking loads of pictures, Merry Fowler for coming just to work as part of my pit-crew getting horse after horse ready for me, equine massage therapist Diane Duke for evaluating Stainmore Wolfhound and being available for human massages, and to Kevin and Margaret Johnson of Peters Creek Farm for hosting a wonderful event.

Class Sponsors included: Carla O'Connell, Virginia Lynn Allinson, Joseph Smith & Colleen Hall , Frances & Bob Armstrong , The Sunshine Social Club, Gayle Heiring, Godfrey's Warehouse, and Family Chiropractors.

Door prizes were donated by Godfrey's warehouse, Little Creek Veterinary Services, and Scott and Stephanie Smith .

Article as published in the Oct 2005 Baywatch