by Jennifer Maack-Condren

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The annual Corn Belt Walking Horse Association Spring Show was held in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, May 2 and 3, 2008, on the beautiful campus of Kirkwood Community College. This facility is ranked near the top of the list among Midwest contenders as a quality show facility. Slightly cooler temperatures blew in for much of the weekend, but the outside weather was hardly noticeable inside the climate-controlled building. One hundred fifty-seven entries, an increase over 2006 and 2007, made the gait call for the two-day, three-performance event.

Leland “Mac” McDougal of Lowell, Ark., made the trip to judge the classes. Announcer Dennis Jacobson kept the show moving and did an excellent job in keeping the exhibitors posted on the status of classes. Show Secretary Ruth Bowers kept things organized in the center ring and assisted with entries. Jill J. Wait always works hard behind the scenes as office manager.

Brad Huffman and PJ’s Pusher were named Open Walking Horse Stake Champions for Dean Scott to conclude the 63-class show. This win certainly made the drive back to Billings, Mo., seem shorter especially since Huffman captured two other stake titles as well.

Jim Huffman Stables earned a total of 17 blues for their efforts over the weekend. Brad Huffman Stables and Hickman Stables each earned eight blues. Sue Halvorson received a half-dozen blues. Ted, Glenda and Brian Nichols and Anne Hardin Stables each took three blues home to Ozark and Desoto, Mo.

The Saturday night performance concluded with an exhibitors’ party where the hospitality of the Corn Belt Association was very evident. This show continues to grow each year and many have already marked their calendars for the fall show at the same facility. Office Manager Jill J. Wait was very pleased with the turn out of horses as many exhibitors came many miles, despite gas prices to support the show.

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