It Was A “Royal” Affair at the International
Grizzly Goes Two-For-Two in Park Pleasure Grand Championship

Coverage by Linda Scrivner & Sara Engel • Editorial by Sara Engel

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Multiple changes were made this year to the 31st annual edition of the International Grand Championships Pleasure and Colt Show. The show was changed from the previous seven-day schedule to a more compact five-day event. The usual prize money was also suspended for this show in an effort to try and recover from the financial loss in 2008. Great trophies and ribbons were passed out to all winners.

The show this year was held at the usual beautiful location of the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, Tenn. The show began on Monday, July 27 at 8 a.m. and ran through Friday, July 31. As had become accustom, a progressive barn party was held following the show Tuesday evening where exhibitors and owners were invited to attend, socialize and enjoy the great food from all across the country. Friday morning was scheduled with classes as well, only for a different four-legged friend this time. A dog show was held with nine different classes for people to enjoy with their pets.

Once again trainers, exhibitors and spectators traveled from near and far to participate in and observe the 165-class event. Classes ranged from versatility to rail classes and any sort of class in between you can think of. Of those 165 classes, a total of 66 classes came with unanimous decisions from the judging panel. Serving as the judges for this year’s event was the trio of Frankie Jo Bradley of Glasgow, Ky., Chris Messick of Cape Coral, Fla., and Wendell Kirkpatrick of Charleston, Mo.

The five-day and night event drew to a close with 1,404 entries making the gate calls. "We appreciate all the sponsors and exhibitors for making this show successful," stated Mark Thomas. Tommy Hall added, “We were very pleased with the entire show having over 1,400 entries with no class paybacks, and class sponsorships were even up. We wish to thank everyone for coming and supporting our great show.”

Results and judges’ cards for the event can be viewed, searched and printed by clicking here.