by Jennifer Maack-Condren

HUMANSVILLE, Mo. - The weather couldn’t have been better for the eager enthusiasts who kicked off the season at the Midwest Walking Horse Trainers’ Association Spring Fun Show on Saturday, April 26, at the Double J Arena. This was the first time this arena has been used for a walking horse show and was held there as “trial run”. Discussions have been held regarding moving the Association’s fall show to this location. This annual show is used as a fundraiser for the MWHTA Fall Trainers’ show.

Association President Wade Hickman and Secretary Carol Middleton were quite pleased with arena, accommodations and the entries for the show. Many used this chance to get some experience under their belts and debut new horses. The HAWHA affiliated show was judged by Vance Vahle of Bolivar, Mo., and announced by Charles Hightower.

The blue ribbon tally was led by the Hickman Stables with Wade and Margaret Hickman trained horses capturing nine blues. Jim Huffman Stables earned a total of five blues. Ted, Glenda and Brian Nichols received a pair of blues while the Patterson family, Brad Huffman Stables and Tammy Duncan earned individual blues.

With some major showcases soon on the agenda, participants were pleased to have this opportunity to get geared up for the season ahead. Complete results follow and can be found on the web site by clicking here.