by Debbie Graham
MARTIN, Tenn. - The Purchase Area Horseman’s Association sponsored a fall show at the West Tennessee Agricultural Pavilion on the campus of the University of Tennessee at Martin located in Martin, Tenn. The 19th annual event got underway at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 19, 2007. Proceeds from the show benefit the American Cancer Society. Beautiful fall weather prevailed for the event. Traditionally, walking horse enthusiasts attend this show as well as the Martin Racking and Walking Horse Classic that was held the following night and sponsored by the Weakley County Rescue Squad. This year was no exception and both shows were successful events with some of West Tennessee’s finest contenders in attendance providing a weekend of entertainment and excitement.
The highlight of the Purchase Area show was one that every show manager dreams of, but few experience. The crowd was treated to a thrilling exhibition by the 2007 World Grand Champion Master Of Jazz and Jimmy McConnell. The champion’s performance was enjoyed by the “hometown” crowd as Master Of Jazz is stabled and trained at Formac Stables only a few miles away in nearby Union City, Tenn. Lee Wall and Mike McGartland are the proud owners of Master Of Jazz.
The show featured 30 walking and racking classes. A stick horse class was added this year which proved to be a popular choice. Nine entries participated and much to the delight and joy of the young exhibitors, each child was presented with a toy for their efforts. Bill Bobo judged the walking classes. Steve Eli was master of ceremonies. Richard Donner and Brian Hays served as ringmasters. Brian Perry entertained the crowd with his talents on the keyboard and performed many favorite horse show tunes throughout the evening. Leon Forrester and Brian Hays provided farrier services. Sid Abernathy was the official show photographer. Man Of Mine and Marina Barclay presented the nation’s colors.
In the final class of the evening, the Riders’ Cup Walking Horse Stake class, Gen’s Major Event and Jimmy McConnell received the Purchase Area tricolor for John Alford.
Complete results follow and may be viewed at www.walkinghorsereport.com.