By Lisa Cummings

EASLEY, S.C. - On September 13, 2003, Kenneth and David Nation of Valley Springs Farms hosted the Second annual Southeastern Walking Horse Classic. All proceeds from the show benefitted Prevent Child Abuse Pickens County organization. Kenneth Nation, show chairman, stated that the show was “great!” The show offered a silent auction and a raffle. The silent auction offered 37 items, valued between $25 and $1,500. The raffle was for a chance to win a $1,000 award winning quilt donated by Gail Sexton of the Upcountry Quilters' Guild. Wheeler Buff held the winning ticket for this beautiful piece of art. The grand total raised for Prevent Child Abuse Pickens County was $6,500.

Bill Cantrell of Phenix City, Ala., was on hand to judge the 96 entries presented at the show. Lisa Cummings was the photographer. Johnny Hewitt kept the crowd entertained and the show moving along while serving as the announcer. The ring master for the evening was Stewart Walker.

The opening ceremonies included all children, both young and old in the center ring, waving the beautiful American flag as Courtney Bracken sang the national anthem while Tim Hicks directed Pushover's Dynamite, the official flag horse for the show.

In a class of six competitors, Point's Kentucky Thunder and Tommy Blackwell were crowned champions in the Walking Horse Stake. Point's Kentucky Thunder is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Larry Cooper. Taking home the red ribbon in this class was Sundrop's Delightful Bum and Robert Kellett for Mr. and Mrs. George Martin.

The plantation champion was I'm A Southern Belle and Toni Strickland, riding for Over The Hill Farm. Pride's Lady Di and Beverly McLeod claimed the blue ribbon in the Amateur Championship for proud owner Ed McLeod.

Rae Martin Stables received a check for $300 for exhibiting the most horses at the show. Alvin Strickland came in second, with the vote being determined by who had the most first and second ties. Show chairman Ken Nations said that plans are already being made for next year’s show and that he would like to invite everyone back for another great show.

This highlights the Southeastern Walking Horse Classic. Complete results follow and may be viewed, searched or printed from our web site www.walkinghorsereport.com.