The colorful flag ceremony presented by Harrison and Bobbie Harden, Cherri Herrell, Jon Hook, Jason Volz, Christi Lemon, Mary Kay Csire and David Fry kicked off the event and was superb!

The Ohio Valley Regional youth versatility winner was Erica Pacholewski taking the gold medal on Fire and Ice, Moon Danzer and Dark Journey. Runners up were Brittany Bean on Hound Hill Sara and Elise Pacholewski on Windjammer.

There were also two special awards this year: Top Female Horse and Top Male Horse of the show. To be eligible for the award, the horse must have participated in all four different events: halter, performance, obstacle and a gaming class. Top Female Horse was won by Hound Hill Sara, owned by Al and Kathy Schaeffner and ridden by their granddaughter, 13 year old Brittany Bean.

Top Male Horse went to Maple’s Fancy owned and ridden by David Fry of Hill Top Farm. Winners of the championship classes were Smokey Joe’s Aunabelle from Windy Rock Farms in the weanling and yearling filly class. First place for the weanling and yearling colt class was MX Wrangler, MX Farm. Maiden Filly winner was Ima Electra, Easy Gait Farm. Matron Mare was Moon Danzer, Tamberlane Farm.

Champion gelding was Dr. Deacon, Easy Gait Farm. Junior Stallion was won by Leonardo, Hound Hill Farm and Senior Stallion was won by Lil Choco Chip owned by Harold Crawford.

Although it was hot, the real heat started after the sun went down as old timers David Fry and Bobbie Harden proved that life begins after 50! David took the first two coveted belt buckles on Maple’s Fancy in the gaited poles and poles for speed. Bobbie rode Little Joe to first place in the gaited barrels and gaited flags. Seasoned 4-H gaming event rider, 19 year old Cherri Herrell from Twelve Mile, Indiana won the barrels for speed and flags for speed on Rocko Jock

Sunday’s kids’ classes were great fun for everyone, young and old alike. The Western and English pleasure classes, along with the kool-aid, egg and spoon and the backin’ back classes were all great opportunities for the kids to exhibit their riding skills while showing off their horses’ smoothness, agility and willingness. Mr. Bill Courtney and his assistance Jeff Bullock had their hands full judging these fine horses and both did an outstanding job. Thanks to all who sponsored and attended the show! See you next year!