by Jennifer Pack

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - The 25th annual International Grand Championship Horse Show was conducted at the newly erected Miller Colosseum in Murfreesboro, Tenn., and what a silver anniversary it was! With 1850 entries in 45 fewer classes than last year, WHOA director Tommy Hall stated, “We would like to thank all of the sponsors, trainers and exhibitors for making the International a huge success year in and year out.” The three judge panel was compiled of Chris Messick of Bell Buckle, Tenn.; Harold White of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; and Bill Brown of Washington.

Sunday Morning and Afternoon A Day for the Kids!

Sunday morning found the Miller Colosseum scurrying with exhibitors and trainers readying their entries for the days to come. The Sunday morning session began at 10:00 a.m.

The Showmanship Halter, 11 and Under class was filled with talented entries. Moonshot's Beauty and Stephanie Smith walked to first place for Renee Puckett. Generator's Rare Diamond and Alex Bumpus, owner/exhibitor, shined to the top spot in the Showmanship Halter, 12-14 division.

Ashley Beard led Generator's New Dimension into the blue ribbon dimension in the Showmanship Halter, 15-17 class for Reagan Mercer. Ebony's Shining Pride and Emma Renee Jones topped the Equitation, Youth 11 and Under Specialty division. Ebony's Shining Pride is owned by Mary Brannen.

Ebony's Shining Pride returned to the Equitation, Youth 12-17 division, this time with Rachel Jernigan in the irons. Alex Bumpus was reserve aboard Spirit's Whimsey.

Two Dressage classes were held at the 10:00 a.m. session. The first being the Dressage, Green Test Three. Rebelation and Linda Starnes topped the class. Reggie McElroy owns the champion. The Dressage, Green Test Four was up next. Bold Aggression and Cindy Anderson were announced as the winners.

The noon event started with the Youth Trail class. Traveling Time and Catherine Simpson journeyed into the winner's circle for Dan Starnes. Show Me Andy and Leslie Birk showed their stuff to top the Water Glass 11 and Under class. Dixie Whistler and Mathew McMurtrey used their skill and rose to the top of the Water Glass, Youth 12-17 class for Kristen McGregor.

Wild Expectations and Luke Carswell were victors in the Egg and Spoon, Youth 11 and Under class for Gene Carswell. The Egg and Spoon, Youth 12-17 division was mastered by Glory Summer Breeze and Ronance Jackson for Ida Marie Panella. Mama's Hands and Shayna Shaw topped the catalog race for Janis Brown.

Show Me Andy and Leslie Birk rode hard to the Pole Bending, Youth 11 and Under class for Debbie Birk. The Pole Bending, Youth 12-17 was mastered by Katie Kettinger for Lauren Kettinger.

The Youth 11 and Under Barrel Race found Show Me Andy and Leslie Birk in the winner's circle yet again for Debbie Birk. The Barrel Race, Youth 12-17 division, was led by Go Boy's Carbon Dust and Mathew McMurtrey for Vic Gernt.

The evening's events began at 6:00 p.m. starting with the Special Needs Riders class with blue ribbons going to all of these fine riders! What a great way to start the show!

The Country Pleasure Pony class, with riders 17 and under, was topped by Heza Hero and Shayna Shaw for Fred and Lisa Weaver. Prime Time Cotton and Rachel Mercier were reserve for Double Springs Farm. Wired's Steppin' Lady and Jared Carried carried out the third place award for Gobbler's Knob Farm.

Mama's Hands and Amanda Rodriquez cradled the Lite-Shod Youth 11 and Under Specialty title for Janis Brown. Frippery and Courtney DeYoung were reserve for Tamarack Acres. Kendall Hensel directed Go Mister Saturday Night Sam to the yellow ribbon for Allen Taunton.

Making a blue ribbon mark in the Park Pleasure, 11 and Under Specialty class was Gen's Magic Marker and Kasie Caldwell for Cindy Sullivan. Patriot Score and Brittney Ellis claimed reserve for Matt DiCambio. Megan Dillard piloted Strut's Kentucky Senator to the third award for Bill Murral.

The Trail Pleasure Riders 11 and Under Specialty class was next in the line up. Amanda Rodriquez directed Royal Prince Charlie to the winner's circle for Jenny Earhart. Major Alibi and Kendall Hensel were reserve for Fred and Delores Gibbany. Luke Carswell and Wise Impact picked up third for Vic Gernt.

Margaret Trudrune made an stellar performance aboard Marquita By Design for Sara Paul in the Plantation Pleasure, Riders 17 and Under division. Lord Blackwatch and Heather Fitzgerald walked away with the red ribbon for Linda Ramon. Ronance Jackson and Double Pistol collected second for Emily Siciensky.

Prime Time Cotton and Rachel Mercier were in prime form to claim the English Country Pleasure, Riders 17 and Under Specialty class for Double Springs Farm. Copy's Dark Stranger and Amanda Weaver captured the reserve for Fred and Lisa Weaver. Lucky's Dynamo and Michelle Hodne were third for R.D. and Connie Waldo.

Caprice's Lady Gen and Jimmy Civils topped the eight-entry Park Pleasure, Riders 12-17 Specialty class for Berry Coffey. M.G.E.T. and Bethany Martocci received reserve for proud mom Rhonda Martocci. Patriot Score and Brianna Dotson collected the yellow ribbon for Matt DiCambio.

Bethany Martocci and Pride's Smart Alex journeyed to victory lane in the English Trail Pleasure Riders, 12-17 Specialty class for Rhonda Martocci. Tried & True and Lauren Shaw claimed reserve for Bill and Betsy Marzinzik. Major Alibi and Margaret Trudrune rounded out the top three for Fred and Delores Gibbany.

The Country Pleasure, Riders 11 and Under Specialty class contained nine entries. Mark's Man Of War and Paige Bennett topped the class for proud mom Leigh Bennett. Hit & Run and Amanda Rodriquez nabbed reserve for the Rodriquez family. Prime Time Cotton and Chandler Shott collected third for Double Springs Farm.

Current World Champion Trashadeous and Jimmy Civils were on the blue ribbon track to win the Lite-Shod Riders 12-17 Specialty division. Civils owns the champion. WC Mama's Hands and Shayna Shaw collected reserve for Janis Brown. Current World Champion Silver's Spinal Tap and Jared Carrier carried away third for Gobbler's Knob Farm.

Luke Carswell claimed the Stock Seat Equitation 11 and Under division aboard with Wild Expectations. Leslie Birk was reserve directing Show Me Andy. The third place award in the good class was awarded to Hailey McKee and Beam's Smoke Screen.

In the Stock Seat Equitation 12-17 division, nine entries made their way through the gate. Alex Bumpus carried away the first place honor aboard Spirit's Whimsey. Rachel Pulley was reserve riding The Master's Pride. Landimere's Pride was directed by Jessica Blair for the third award.

Hit & Run and Megan Rodriquez hit one out of the park for a Western Country Pleasure 17 and Under Specialty blue for the Rodriquez family. Copy's Dark Stranger and Amanda Weaver were reserve for Fred and Lisa Weaver. Jessica Blair returned aboard Landimere's Pride for the third place award. Blair owns the entry.

Bethany Martocci reintroduced Pride's Smart Alex to the winner's circle, this time in the Western Trail Pleasure, 17 and Under Specialty class for Rhonda Martocci. Michelle Hodne and Royal Sparkling Gen sparkled to the reserve for Doug Toone. To Die For and Shayna Shaw took home third for Janis Brown.

What a great start for this 25th annual show! A day filled with blue ribbons and smiles could only turn into an even better week.

Monday Morning Afternoon to Evening...

Ahh, Monday. The morning session began with eleven classes on the agenda. Smiles and attitudes were fresh and ready for the week to begin.

Starting off the day was the Model Mares class. Honky Tonk Tessie and Roger Richards walked their way to blue ribbon acclaim. Roger Richards and Allen Curtis own the champion. Royal's Vanity Fair and Jeff Givens took the reserve award for Darwin and Linda James. Lady Godiva's Emblem and Wendy Boyd claimed the third award for the MTSU Foundation.

The Model Two and Three-Year-Olds class found Karen McGee and It's Nunya Business in the winner's circle for the MTSU Foundation. Lynn MacGregor led American Legend to the reserve award for Angie Bumpus. She's Pretty Ritzy and Sharon Gueck DeFord collected third for Sanni Mathews.

Papa's Show Off and Lynn Womack showed off in the Flat-Shod Yearling Filly class to take the International title for Russ Thompson. Reba's Black Angel and Robert Nelms were reserve for J.T. and Martha Nelms. Twice The Coins and Lynn MacGregor rounded out the top three for Kathy Hanlon.

Lord Blackwatch and Sharon Gueck DeFord collected the Model Geldings title for Linda Ramon. Generator's Power Pusher and Jeff Givens claimed reserve for Dick and Sally Reiley. Emily George and 2 Tuff 4 U were tough enough for third for Faye Lynn Coffey.

A Spot At The Ritz and Jeff Givens found a spot in the winner's circle in the Model, Spotted Registered TWH class for Liz Hestle Gassaway. Generator's Aurora and Robert Nelms claimed reserve for Wendy and Bryant Morton. Mac's Rising Rebel and Lonnie Kuehn were third for Ida Marie Panella.

AK47 and Jeff Givens shot into the Model Stallions winner's circle for Guylene Ozlanski. Ironman's Mr. Mack and Bobby Richards captured reserve for Dana Douglas and Geri Stewart. Trigger On The Prowl and Russ Keyser collected the yellow ribbon for JoAnn Dowell.

Black Diamond Ritz and Roger Richards shined to the Flat-Shod Yearling Colts title for Bobby and Freda Jones. Darn Near Dangerous and Russ Keyser received the red ribbon honor for TLC Tack. How Dare You and Glenn Nave collected third for Glenn and Lou Nave.

The Mares In Hand class was the next class of the morning. Honky Tonk Tessie and Roger Richards claimed their second blue of the morning for the Roger Richards and Allen Curtis ownership. She's Pretty Ritzy and Sharon Gueck DeFord glimmered to reserve for Sanni Mathews. A Beam Come True and Diane Gueck received the yellow ribbon for Sanni Mathews.

Lord Blackwatch returned to the blue ribbon honor in the Geldings In Hand class for Linda Ramon. Whispers And Rumors and Robert Nelms glided into reserve for the Nelms family. Armed With Charisma and Maggie Moore walked away armed with third. Harvey and Maggie Moore own the entry.

Whispers And Rumor and Robert Nelms turned their reserve award into a blue ribbon title in the Spotted Registered TWH In Hand division for the Nelms family. Gen-U-Wine Power and Anita Ress, owner/handler, powered their way to reserve. Pusher's White Russian and Larry Wood, owner/handler, were third.

Cash In After Dark and Laura Berringer cashed in on blue ribbon honors in the Stallions In Hand division for Judy Berringer. Trigger On The Prowl and Russ Keyser tapped in on the reserve for JoAnn Dowell. Banner's Honor And Glory and Marilynne MacLeod rounded out the top three for the Kathy Owen and Martha Child ownership.

Next was the Versatility Adult divisions in Arena 2 at the Miller Colosseum. A Common Denominator and Laurie Toone divided and conquered for the top honor for Doug Toone. Southern Tapestry and Mary Helen Martin topped the Adult Water Glass class. Martin owns the winner.

Henry's Walking Tall and Tracy Pinson were awarded the blue in the Egg and Spoon Adult class. Kathleen Hetherman owns the champion.

Power's Midnight Delight and Katie Kettinger received the Western Riding Open blue for Lauren Kettinger. All Time Melody and Laurie Toone captured the Basic Reining Open title for Scot and Kathy Potter.

Sanafras's Morning Star and Martha Ann Huck shined to the top spot of the Catalog Race. Huck owns the champion. The Adult Pole Bending blue was nabbed by Lacy's Desert Storm and Sharon Tondreau. Tondreau owns the versatility champion.

Pam Greene and Skyjacker's Sargent rode hard for the Adult Barrel Race title. Pam Greene owns the entry. Wrapping up the adult versatility section was the TWH Over Fences Open class. The Masked Phantom and Catherine Simpson unmasked a flawless performance for an International blue.

Monday Evening “The Nights The Lights Went Out In Murfreesboro”

A severe thunderstorm moved across Murfreesboro near the end of the evening's events. Around 11:00 p.m. the lights flickered, and then went out completely, leaving 27 horses and riders in the ring unable to see anything around them. The entry and exit area was filled with exhibitors trying to avoid the high winds while awaiting the start of the next three classes. The show was called for the night when the backup generators failed to function. With the threatening weather continuing, the remaining classes were rescheduled for the Tuesday afternoon session.

The night began with the Trail Pleasure Driving class. Major Alibi and Maggie Moore drove their way to the winner's circle after a unanimous judging decision. Fred and Delores Gibbany own the entry. The Storm Generator and Larane Moats, owner/driver, received reserve. Jenny Frey directed her Classic Rogue to the third award.

Miss Magic Money and Diane Gueck cashed in on a unanimous blue in the Lite-Shod Novice Horse Specialty division. Gueck and Mathews are the proud owners of the mare. Drop The Hammer was piloted to reserve by Connie Waldo for R.D. and Connie Waldo. The yellow ribbon was picked up by I Believe I Believe and Russ Keyser, owner/driver.

The added Show Pleasure 11 and Under class harvested two entries. Pollack's Silver Spur Ranch had reason to celebrate after Ashley Diamond Pollack and Push-A-Rama made a stellar performance for a unanimous victory. Plum Dandy and Kenall Hensel were reserve for Caroline Barnett.

The equitation division is becoming more and more competitive. The Adult Equitation class contained six entries. Sara Womack topped the class aboard Spirit's Whimsey, owned by Ruskin Falls. Kathy Potter captured reserve riding Solitude's Sugar Babe. Potter owns the entry. Lani Dennis claimed third aboard Ebony's Shining Pride. Mary Brannen owns the entry.

Paris Rain and Jeff Givens made a flawless performance to bring home the Park Pleasure Specialty title for Darwin and Linda James. Dad's Hard Earned Cash and James Conkle earned the reserve spot for Pam Greene. Patriot Score and Dana Kanstul scored third for Dotson, Kanstul and More.

The Lite-Shod Amateur Specialty class found Drop The Hammer and Connie Waldo in the top spot for R.D. and Connie Waldo. Armed With Beauty and Terry Vaught were armed with reserve for Terry and Linda Vaught. Jackie Singleton and Mr. Red Rambler walked away with third. Singleton is the owner.

Suddenly Cher and Belinda Mendenhall topped the Owner/Amateur Trained Junior Trail Pleasure Four and Under class. Jana Anderson owns the champion. Lacy Cash and Kathy Owen were reserve for Double Springs Farm. Eavesdrop and Karen Smith nabbed third for Carol Aldrich-George and Karen Smith.

Miss Magic Money and Diane Gueck returned to the show ring for another blue ribbon performance for the Gueck and Mathews ownership. The team captured the Lite-Shod Open title, chalking up their second win of the afternoon. The Man Of Fashion and Sherrie Szucs were reserve for Jim Todd. Princess Caroline and Adam Hall made a royal performance for the yellow ribbon for Nancy McEwen.

Cindy Womack presented Pearl Jam to the Junior Country Pleasure Four-Year-Old and Under Specialty blue. Womack proudly owns the winner. Generatin' Colors and Hannah Pulvers generated a red ribbon award for Jana Anderson. Ms. Delight Hitman and Maggie Moore scored third for Whitey Whitehead.

Gen's Final Masterpiece and owner Christie Scrivner were elected to the blue ribbon honor in the Bareback Trail Pleasure class. Royal Sparkling Generator and Michelle Hodne shined to the red award for Doug Toone. Ali's Spirit and Shayna Shaw collected third for the Rodriquez family.

Three entries answered the call for the Park Pleasure Amateur Riders class. Rodney Dangerfield and Miles Irby "got some respect" as they made the journey to the blue ribbon presentation for Bert Head. Gen's Magic Marker and Cindy Sullivan were second on the judges' cards. Sullivan owns the entry. Patriot Score and Brianna Dotson rounded out the top three for Dotson, Kanstul and More.

Belinda Mendenhall reintroduced Suddenly Cher in a great performance for the Western Junior Trail Pleasure Four-Year-Old and Under Specialty class. Proud owner Jana Anderson was very pleased with her second win of the afternoon! Kathy Owen directed Lacy Cash to reserve honors for Double Springs Farm. The American Legend and Sandy Harris captured the yellow award for Larry and Sandy Harris.

Push 'N For Pleasure and young Shayna Shaw pushed their way to the top of the nine-entry Western Plantation Pleasure Specialty class for Janis Brown. Russ Keyser and The Ghostdancer were reserve for Double Springs Farm. Sharon Gueck DeFord and Lord Blackwatch walked away with third for Linda Ramon.

The Bareback Country Pleasure Specialty class was up next. Hit & Run and Amanda Rodriquez scored the blue ribbon for the Rodriquez family. Generatin' Colors and Hannah Pulvers were reserve for Jana Anderson. Copy's Dark Stranger and Lisa Weaver received third for Fred and Lisa Weaver.

During the Ladies Western Trail Pleasure class, the storm hit leaving sight nearly impossible. Riders dismounted and led their entries from the ring with the only light being provided by the headlights of a truck. With everyone safe, the last three classes were postponed and rescheduled for the next day.

Tuesday Afternoon The Blues Continue...

After a frightening blackout, hail and severe thunderstorms passed through on Monday night, spirits were still high and the blues continued. The afternoon session began with the Ladies Western Trail Pleasure class that had been interrupted by the blackout. The exhibitors were assured that the back up generators were ready to run in case of another severe storm.

The Janis Brown owned entry, To Die For collected the Western Trail Pleasure Ladies Specialty title with Lisa Weaver in the irons. He's A Wrangler and Maggie Moore rustled up to the reserve spot for Harvey and Maggie Moore. Ali's Spirit and Megan Rodriquez were third for the Rodriquez family.

Dividing themselves from the competition to the Western Lite-Shod Specialty unanimous blue was A Common Denominator and Laurie Toone for Doug Toone. Allen All Around and Lynn MacGregor were reserve for Lee Ritter. A Style File added a yellow ribbon to the stable wall with Jeff Givens directing for Darwin and Linda James.

Three entries journeyed through the gate for the Western Park Pleasure Amateur class. Miles Irby captured another win, this time aboard Bounty Hunter. Proud owners, Bob Lawrence and Caroll Hutto were certainly pleased with the win! Mo Shame On Me and Rebecca Teal were reserve. Teal owns the entry. Brianna Dotson and Patriot Score captured third for Dotson, Kanstul and More.

Sarena Westenhaver and Nite Wind's Bum blew into the winner's circle in the Western Trail Pleasure class. Westenhaver owns the champion. Gen's Final Masterpiece and owner/exhibitor Christie Scrivner were reserve in the good class. Royal Sparkling Generator and Michelle Hodne picked up the yellow ribbon for Doug Toone.

The Mare and Foal class was added to the International schedule this year. Two entries made the call. The class winners were Blue Nun and her colt Our American Idol. Wendy Boyd and Karen McGee were the handlers. The MTSU Foundation owns the champions. Generator's Sunrise, led by Bobby Richards, and Poisonous Lady, led by Lisa Teel, were reserve for the Teel and Butler ownership.

Country Pleasure driving held only two entries. Prime Time Cotton with Kathy Owen at whip, made a prime showing for the International title. Double Springs Farm owns the champion. My Silver Coin Got Rusty and Tracy Pinson were reserve in the class for Elaine McKay.

Jesse Dotson was pleased to lead his entry J.D.'s Miss N R to the top spot of the Weanling Fillies division. Lucky's Encore and Stan Thomas were reserve for Jerrold Pedigo. Striding to third was Striding To The Ritz and Robert Nelms. The filly is owned by Chris and Tami Proctor.

Sarena Westenhaver returned to victory lane aboard Nite Wind's Bum, but this time it was in the Owner/Amateur Trained English Trail Pleasure Specialty class. She's Legal Tender and Dr. Charlene Cook collected the reserve award for Central Georgia Equine Services, Inc. Stacy Avery and One Knight At A Time received third for Karla Massey.

The young weanlings graced the show ring once again, this time with Youth Handlers. Taking home a second International title was Jaron Dotson and J.D.'s Miss N R for proud dad Jesse Dotson. So U Wish and Bradley Richards claimed the red ribbon for Ty and Sue Irby. Big brother Jesse Dotson, III led Stoned To The Bone to the yellow ribbon to round out the top three.

Susan Shemwell made a fantastic performance in the Stock Seat Equitation Adult class. Spirit's Whimsey, owned by Ruskin Falls, carried Shemwell to the winner's circle. Lord Blackwatch served as Sharon Gueck DeFord's mount as she claimed reserve. Sara Womack was third aboard Lady Aurora, owned by Jan White.

Our American Idol and Karen McGee made a great performance to the Weanling Colt class for the MTSU Foundation. So U Wish and Bobby Richards were reserve in the class for Ty and Sue Irby. Xerox Copy and Carla Hurley walked their way to the third award for Margaret Kime.

Owner/Amateur Trained Western Country Pleasure Specialty found Copy's Dark Stranger and Lisa Weaver in the winner's circle. Fred and Lisa Weaver own the champion. Generatin' Colors and Hannah Pulvers were reserve for Jana Anderson. Dangerous Beauty and Kathy Owen nabbed third for Double Springs Farm.

Grand Master Splash and Justin Miller made quite a splash in the Weanling Amateur Handler division to take the blue. Chris and Tami Proctor are proud owners of the little champion. Xerox Copy and Andrea Nelson claimed reserve for Margaret Kime. Bob Nelms led Eisenhower to the third award for Greg Pate.

Returning to the winner's circle with a unanimous decision in the Owner/Amateur Trained Western Lite-Shod Specialty class was Drop The Hammer and Connie Waldo. Waldo and her husband, R.D., own the entry. Silver's Spinal Tap and Jared Carrier carried away second place for Gobbler's Knob Farm. Highway Patrol and Dennis Pennington cruised in to round out the top three spots for Dennis and Becca Pennington.

The Weanling Championship brought the Tuesday afternoon session to a close. Our American Idol and Karen McGee claimed their second title of the day for the MTSU Foundation. So U Wish and Bobby Richards were reserve for Ty and Sue Irby. Jesse Dotson, III led J.D.'s Miss N R to the yellow ribbon for Jesse Dotson.

With just a little less than two hours before the evening performances, many were ready to kick back and enjoy the rest of the afternoon.

Tuesday Evening High Spirits and Big Smiles

Back at the Miller Colosseum, the show began with everyone expecting another night of fellowship and good horses. And indeed, the spectators, owners and exhibitors were delighted with another entertaining night. The International was blessed with more talented entries and a spirited group ready to show.

The Lite-Shod Pleasure Driving class kicked off the night. Drop The Hammer and Connie Waldo made yet another blue ribbon performance for a third International title. What a great day for R.D. and Connie Waldo! Sunfire's Hi Tech and Russ Keyser collected the reserve of the five entries for Double Springs Farm. Royal's Vanity Fair and Jeff Givens were third for Darwin and Linda James.

Laura Brandon and Millennium Sky made their way to victory lane in the Park Pleasure Novice Horse Specialty class. Hickory Hill Farm owns the entry. Heavenly Secret and Ryan Vanatta were no secret as they claimed the reserve for Bill Reed. Extra Pride and Grant Holt were third for Adam Johnson.

Mama's Hands took care of Shayna Shaw as the team collected the Lite-Shod Bareback Specialty class for Janis Brown. Fame's Pushy Woman and Joe London were reserve for Nancy Dukes. Shelby Pegram directed Count Montgomery to the third award for Hal and Martha Bowden.

The Two and Three-Year-Old Trail Pleasure Specialty, English or Western class was up next. Suddenly Cher and Belinda Mendenhall were suddenly back in the winner's circle! Jana Anderson was very happy with her champion. Tried & True and Bill Marzinzik were true to the red ribbon for Bill and Betsy Marzinzik. The American Legend and Rebecca Carroll walked away with third. Carroll owns the entry.

Heza Hero and Lisa Weaver were the champions in the English Country Pleasure Specialty class for Fred and Lisa Weaver. Lucky's Dynamo and Connie Waldo were reserve for R.D. and Connie Waldo. Patti Pollack and Poisonous Delite cruised into third for Susan Marcucci.

Meg Kindree guided Miss Magic Money to her third blue of the day for the Gueck and Mathews ownership in the Lite-Shod Amateur Ladies Specialty class. Gen's Knight Threat and Judy Moore were reserve for Moore and Foust Farm. Majestic Colors and Emily Lewis received the yellow ribbon. Emily was in the saddle for Ted Lewis.

The Plantation Pleasure Open class held six entries. Beaming into the top spot was A Beam Come True and Diane Gueck for Sanni Mathews. Reserve in the class was Lord Blackwatch and Sharon Gueck DeFord for Linda Ramon. Doc's Last Advice and Marilynne MacLeod rounded out the top three for Kim and Jeff Dean.

Kid Rock. Whatchu say? That's right, The Kid Rock and Miles Irby rocked their way to the Western Trail Pleasure Gentlemen Riders Specialty for Billy and Sue Dean. Push It Sister and Dr. Tom Willis were reserve for Tom and Martha Willis. The Ride Of Your Life and Martin Deweese rode to the third award for Lori and Wade Sanders.

A three way tie in the judging led to a three horse workout in the Western Park Pleasure Open class. When all was said and done, the Dotson, Kanstul and More ownership had reason to celebrate as Patriot Score and Dana Kanstul topped the four-entry Western Park Pleasure Open class. Dinero and Jeff Byrom were reserve for the Wayne Hall family. Generator's Power Pusher and Jeff Givens were third for Dick and Sally Reiley.

Filing away another blue ribbon performance was A Style File and Darwin James. The duo captured the Western Lite-Shod Amateur Specialty division title. Darwin and Linda James are the proud owners. Drop The Hammer and Connie Waldo were reserve for R.D. and Connie Waldo. Armed With Beauty and Terry Vaught came away armed with a yellow ribbon for Terry and Linda Vaught.

Rounding third and heading for home was Hit & Run and Megan Rodriquez in the Western Country Pleasure Specialty class for the Rodriquez family. Kathy Owen and Dixie Spirit collected reserve for Double Springs Farm. Lucky's Dynamo and Connie Waldo were third for Mike and Connie Waldo.

A Classic Shot and Laurie Toone cruised to the Two and Three-Year-Old Western Lite-Shod Specialty title for Jim and Terri Naugle. Highway Patrol and Dennis Pennington made their way to reserve for Dennis and Becca Pennington. Ritz Ebony Encore and Russ Keyser claimed the third award for Caitness Croft.

Nite Wind's Bum and Sarena Westenhaver were again crowned champions; this trip they scored the Owner/Amateur Trained Western Trail Pleasure Specialty title. Eavesdrop and Karen Smith were reserve for Carol Aldrich-George and Karen Smith. Royal Prince Charlie and Jenny Earhart, owner/exhibitor, nabbed the third place tie.

Scoring another International title was Patriot Score this time with Dana Kanstul in the irons for Dotson, Kanstul and More. Terry Vaught directed Jubilee's Pushover to the reserve award for Terry and Linda Vaught. Generator's Power Pusher and Jeff Givens powered their way to the third award for Dick and Sally Reiley.

A Common Denominator and Laurie Toone made the winning ride in the five-entry Western Lite-Shod Open class for Doug Toone. A Style File and Jeff Givens were reserve for Darwin and Linda James. Mama's Hands and Lauren Shaw rode to the third award for Janis Brown.

Spirits were high and smiles were big as we departed from the Tuesday evening event with hopes of an even brighter tomorrow. After a good night's rest, all would feel refreshed for the next day's activities.

Wednesday Afternoon And the Rains Came Down...

The Wednesday afternoon session started at noon on another beautiful August day, only to be interrupted by rolling thunder, lightning and heavy rain. The rainfall didn't last long and it certainly didn't dampen the spirits of the owners, trainers or exhibitors. All was well, and off we went to another set of classes.

The afternoon began with the Lite-Shod Amateur Gentlemen Riders Specialty class. The Rhonda Martocci owned entry, Bojangles Diamond Sadie was piloted by Dan Groover to the top honor. Sundrop Country and Dr. Harry Woodall were reserve in the class. Sundrop Country is proudly owned by Dr. Harry and Mary Woodall. Showshine and Bill Harlin received the yellow ribbon. Bill and Barbara Harlin own the entry.

The English Trail Pleasure Lady Riders Specialty class was packed with top competition. Riding to the blue ribbon award was Obsessed With Silver and Kathy Owen. Owen rides for the Double Springs Farm ownership. Reserve was captured by She’s Legal Tender and Dr. Charlene Cook. The entry is owned by Central Georgia Equine Services, Inc. Annie’s Got Her Gun and Jennifer Miller rounded out the top three for Rob and Jennifer Miller.

The Junior Lite-Shod, Four and Under Amateur class was next to journey through the Colosseum gate. Kathy Owen once again returned to the winner’s circle for Double Springs Farms aboard Reved So High. Bojangles Diamond Sadie and Dan Groover made their way to the reserve honor for Rhonda Martocci. Commanding Dakota and Judy Moore were third. Commanding Dakota is owned by Moore and Foust Farm.

Hermano Gold and Bob Lawrence walked their way to blue ribbon acclaim in the Park Pleasure, Amateur 50 and Over Specialty division. This sorrel beauty is owned by Lawrence and Hutto. Millennium Sky and Laura Brandon claimed the red ribbon for Hickory Hill Farm. Judge’s Red Alert and Sue Maze were third in the good class. Maze owns the entry.

Karen Smith found her spot in the winner’s circle aboard Eavesdrop in the Junior English Trail Pleasure, Four and Under Specialty class. Carol Aldrich-George and Karen Smith proudly co-own the entry. Riding to red ribbon honors was Stop’s April Fool with Rita Gilbert directing the Ford Gates owned entry. The American Legend and Sandy Harris claimed the yellow ribbon for Larry and Sandy Harris.

The Show Pleasure Specialty class was added to the International’s lineup early in the week. Wendall Kirkpatrick guided Extenuating Circumstances to the blue ribbon honor for Rick Griffith. Charlie Hilfiger and Tim Smith held the reserve spot for the Nichols and Sleeth ownership. Gen’s Superstroke and Link Webb were third for James and Peggy Vernon.

With an intoxicating performance, Bob Lawrence and Jose Quervo Gold cashed in on an International title. Lawrence and Hutto own the entry. Showshine and Barbara Harlin were reserve for Bill and Barbara Harlin. The Heavenly Star and Ryan Vanatta shined in for the yellow streamer for Bill Reed.

Kib’s Present Danger and Elizabeth Mullins presented themselves in blue ribbon fashion for the Owner/Amateur Trained Park Pleasure Specialty title. Mullins proudly owns the champion. Counselor’s Jewel and Sarah Macrzke nabbed reserve, while F.D.S. Master By Design and Kim Davis captured third. Both entries are owned by Kim Davis of Field of Dreams Stables.

The Trail Pleasure Novice Horse Specialty English or Western class was split into two divisions. Division A of the class was landed by The American Legend and Sandy Harris for Larry and Sandy Harris. Ali’s Spirit and Megan Rodriquez made the ride to the red ribbon for the the Rodriquez family. Eb’s Five Star General and Madeline McCluer received third for Dr. Charley and Carol McCluer. Division B of the class held yet another blue ribbon ride for Kathy Owen of Double Springs Farms. This time her trip to the winner’s circle was celebrated aboard Lacy Cash. Royal Rev and Mi Mi Hickerson were reserve for Bill and Barbara Harlin. Heart Of Mine and Donna Conkle claimed the yellow streamer for James Conkle.

The Two-Year-Old Lite-Shod Specialty class was up next. I Believe I Believe and Russ Keyser had everyone believing as they made their way to the top award. Departing with the reserve was Our Midnight Patriot and Scot MacGregor for Martha Child. Four Way Stop and Wendall Kirkpatrick stopped to pick up the third place ribbon for Lynn Hager.

Wrapping up the afternoon session was the Owner/Amateur Trained Trail Pleasure, English or Western class. Nite Wind’s Bum blew into the winner’s circle for yet another blue ribbon ride with Sarena Westenhaver directing. Gen’s Final Masterpiece and Christie Scrivner, owner/exhibitor, rode to the red ribbon. Royal Prince Charlie and Jenny Earhhart rounded out the top three. Earhart proudly owns the entry.

Wednesday Evening Let The Championships Commence!

The first round of championship classes started late in the line up of classes on another gorgeous August night. Seventeen classes were scheduled with only one being split due to the large number of entries, making the total 18. With the invocation and national anthem completed, the night began.

Connie Waldo let her husband, R.D., share a little of the glory with Drop The Hammer. R.D. Waldo directed "Hammer" to the Plantation Pleasure Driving title. Lord Blackwatch and Diane Gueck were reserve for Linda Ramon. The Gold Collector and Susan Shemwell collected the yellow ribbon for Bethany Martocci.

Chilling out the competition in the Two and Three-Year-Old Park Pleasure Specialty division was Chill, the Danielle Reed owned entry, and Doug Barnes. Duck's Jewel and Willie Cook shined to the reserve award for Joe Fizer. Jeff Givens piloted Pusher's Secret Tiger to the third honor for Mr. and Mrs. Bob Bass.

Armed Lady From Dixie and Wayne Westbrook walked away armed with the Owner/Amateur Trained Junior Lite-Shod Four and Under Specialty title for Robert Westbrook. Razzle Me Dazzle Me and Sandy Harris dazzled the crowd for the reserve title for Larry and Sandy Harris. Highway Patrol and Dennis Pennington cruised into the third spot for Dennis and Becca Pennington.

To Die For and Shayna Shaw conducted a stellar performance for the English Trail Pleasure blue for Janis Brown. Pride's Smart Alex and Bethany Martocci nabbed reserve for Rhonda Martocci. Looking Black and Charles Fulton were looking at third for Charles and Judy Fulton.

The Owner/Amateur Trained English Country Pleasure Specialty class found Copy's Dark Stranger and Lisa Weaver in the winner's circle for Fred and Lisa Weaver. This was the pair's second blue with this champion. Sassy Warlord and Judy Moore strutted to second place for Moore and Foust Farm. Lucky's Dynamo and Connie R.D. Waldo were third for R.D. and Connie Waldo.

Shane and Sarah Hastings were mighty proud of their entry Gen's Sundancer as Jeff Givens directed him to the Park Pleasure Open title. Freedom Of Arms and Jeff Byrom were reserve in the good class for Bert, Cheryl and Landon Head. Heavenly Secret and Bill Reed rounded out the top three. Reed owns the entry.

Armed Lady From Dixie returned to the show ring for another International title. Wayne Westbrook was riding the Robert Westbrook entry. Bojangles Diamond Sadie and Dan Groover took reserve for Rhonda Martocci. Ginny Chapman directed Windowmaker All Over to the third award for Carol Dunaway.

He's back! The Kid Rock and Miles Irby made the ride to victory lane for Billy and Sue Dean in the English Trail Pleasure Gentlemen Riders Specialty class. Looking Black and Charles Fulton claimed the red ribbon honors for Charles and Judy Fulton. Tried & True and Bill Marzinzik received the third place award for Bill and Betsy Marzinzik.

Push 'N For Pleasure, directed by Wendy Shaw, once again graced the winner's circle in the Plantation Pleasure Specialty division for Janis Brown. Rainbow's Good Time and Russ Keyser found the red in the ribbon for Dave Patterson. A Daring Affair and Faye Lynn Coffey, owner/exhibitor, rounded out the top three.

A Beam Come True and Diane Gueck topped the Lite-Shod Specialty division for Sanni Mathews. Allen All Around and Scot MacGregor collected the red ribbon for Lee Ritter. Sundrop Country and Sara Womack were third for Dr. Harry and Mary Woodall.

Captive Heart and Bridget Rush captured the Park Pleasure Amateur Specialty class for Del and Bridget Rush. Guylene Ozlanski directed Extra Pride to the reserve award for Tamarack Acres. M.G.E.T. and Rhonda Martocci took the third honor. Rhonda Martocci owns the entry.

The Two and Three-Year-Old Country Pleasure Specialty English or Western class was up next. Generatin' Colors and Hannah Pulvers generated a blue for Jana Anderson. Connie Waldo piloted Lucky's Dynamo to the reserve award for R.D. and Connie Waldo. Royal Di and Rita Colbert were reserve for Russ Keyser.

The Western Trail Pleasure Specialty Championship was the first championship class of the night. An excited Bethany Martocci topped the class aboard Pride's Smart Alex for Rhonda Martocci. Suddenly Cher and Belinda Mendehall were reserve champions for Jana Anderson. Eavesdrop and Karen Smith dropped in to take the third position for Carol Aldrich-George and Karen Smith.

After two International titles, A Common Demoninator and Laurie Toone returned in the Western Lite-Shod Championship to take the tricolor and roses for Doug Toone. A Style File and Darwin James were reserve grand champions for Darwin and Linda James, while Bojangles Diamond Sadie and Rhonda Martocci rounded out the top three in the championship.

Pushing their way to the Western Park Pleasure Championship in the five-entry class was Generator's Power Pusher and Jeff Givens. Dick and Sally Reiley own the grand champion. Bounty Hunter and Miles Irby secured the reserve championship honors for the Hutto and Lawrence ownership. Dinero and Jeff Byrom cashed in on the third place award for the Wayne Hall family.

The Western Plantation Pleasure class was another of the added classes. Push 'N For Pleasure and Shayna Shaw captured another blue for Janis Brown of the six entries. The Ghostdancer and Russ Keyser were reserve. Keyser owns the entry. Lord Blackwatch was directed to third by Sharon Gueck DeFord for Linda Ramon.

The last class of the night, the Western Trail Pleasure Championship, found Nite Wind's Bum and Sarena Westenhaver receiving the roses and the tricolor. Royal Sparkling Gen and Michelle Hodne were reserve in the championship for Doug Toone. Mr. Pacesetter and owner/exhibitor Tina Singleton picked up the third place award.

Even bigger smiles dominated the night, especially on those who won a set of roses! With no afternoon classes on Thursday, an Exhibitors' Party was held with delicious Whitt's Barbecue and plenty of fun and fellowship. Everyone was ready to get some rest and get themselves and their mounts ready for the 22-class championship night to come.

Thursday Evening "A Good Night For Roses"

Thursday evening commenced with 22 classes lined up for the night. The center ring was dressed with the ten floral horse shoes that would later adorn 10 more International champions.

The Park Pleasure Driving division only held one entry. Taking the blue ribbon was Generator's Power Pusher and Sally Reiley. Dick and Sally Reiley proudly own the champion.

Bobby Richards directed Wicked Leggs to the Yearling Filly blue for Jana Anderson. Tantalizing Touch and Robert Nelms nabbed reserve for Rhonda Bissonette. Mask Kentucky Girl and Susan Shemwell rounded out the top three for Chris and Tami Proctor.

Rainsong and Jeff Givens were singing along to a blue ribbon tune in the Junior Lite-Shod Four and Under class. Rainsong is owned by Mike and Pam Ericson. Reved So High and Sherri Szucs were reserve for Double Springs Farm. Bojangles Diamond Sadie and Susan Shemwell were third for Rhonda Martocci.

Bobby Richards and Black Diamond Ritz shined to the top honor in the Yearling Colts class for Bobby and Freda Jones. Robert Nelms led Power Of Success to the reserve for Everett and Doris Penick. Yippee-Yi-O-Ki-Yay and Susan Shemwell were third for Roger Richards.

The Amateur Show Pleasure class, an added class, hosted seven entries. Bright Star's Forecast and Wayne Westbrook claimed the blue ribbon for Robert Westbrook. Wham Bam Mountain Man and Gary McDowell whammed their way to reserve. McDowell owns the entry. Push-A-Rama and Patti Pollack were third for Pollack's Silver Spur Ranch.

A threat in the Owner/Amateur Trained Lite-Shod Specialty class was Gen's Knight Threat and Dr. Judy Moore. They claimed the blue ribbon for Moore and Foust Farm. Drop The Hammer and Connie Waldo were reserve for R.D. and Connie Waldo. Armed With Beauty and Terry Vaught walked away armed with the yellow ribbon for Terry and Linda Vaught.

Hermano Gold and Bob Lawrence cashed in on the Two and Three-Year-Old Park Pleasure Amateur Specialty blue for the Hutto and Lawrence ownership. Forever Spirit and Sue Dean were reserve for Billy and Sue Dean. Jazz Man Walking and Gary McDowell walked away with the third place ribbon for Whitey Whitehead.

Mask Kentucky Girl and Justin Miller found themselves in the winner's circle of the Yearling Youth Handler class for Chris and Tami Proctor. You're Busted and Logan Goosetree busted through the competition for reserve for Verna Clifford. Yippee-Yi-O-Ki-Yay and Roger Richards were third. Richards owns the entry.

Obsessed With Silver and Kathy Owen powered their way to the English Trail Pleasure Specialty Championship for Double Springs Farm. Tried & True and Jenny Earhart earned reserve for Bill and Betsy Marzinzik. Looking Black and Charles Fulton were looking at the yellow ribbon for Charles and Judy Fulton.

Mask Kentucky Girl returned to the International winner's circle; this time in the Yearling Fillies, Amateur Handler class with Beverly Lamp. Chris and Tami Proctor were sure proud of their baby! Tantalizing Touch and Bob Nelms claimed reserve for Rhonda Bissonette. You're Busted and Laurale Lowery rounded out the top three for Verna Clifford.

Commanding Dakota made quite a commanding performance with Russ Keyser to earn the Three-Year-Old Lite-Shod Specialty title for Moore and Foust Farm. A Classic Shot and Laurie Toone made a classy show for reserve for Jim and Terri Naugle. She's Pretty Ritzy and Diane Gueck took the third award for Sanni Mathews.

Hit & Run knocked another one out of the park with little Amanda Rodriquez in the irons for the Rodriquez family in the Country Pleasure Specialty Championship. Dixie Spirit and Kathy Owen were reserve for Double Springs Farm. Pearl Jam and Cindy Womack took third. Womack owns the entry.

Power Of Success and Bob Nelms powered their way to the Yearling Colts Amateur Handlers blue ribbon honor for Everett and Doris Penick. Yippee-Yi-O-Ki-Yay and Stacey Richards collected reserve for Roger Richards. Chris and Tami Proctor celebrated a third place with Pride Of The Moment and Justin Miller.

Faye Lynn Coffey and A Daring Affair made a dashing show to the Plantation Pleasure Championship title. Coffey proudly owns the champion. Push 'N For Pleasure and Jeff Ray pushed their way to reserve for Janis Brown. Razzle Me Dazzle Me and Sandy Harris dazzled their way to the yellow ribbon for Larry and Sandy Harris.

Walking away armed with the Lite-Shod Amateur Specialty Championship roses was Armed Lady From Dixie and Wayne Westbrook. Robert Westbrook proudly owns the champion. Jose Quervo Gold and Bob Lawrence took reserve honors for the Hutto and Lawrence ownership. Gen's Knight Threat and Dr. Judy Moore captured third for Moore and Foust Farm.

Bridget Rush was one excited lady as she captured the Park Pleasure Amateur Championship aboard Captive Heart for Del and Bridget Rush. Extra Pride and Guylene Ozlanski were extra proud of their reserve championship title. The Lone Gunman and Lauren Williams shot out with the third place honor for Pam Williams.

Wicked Leggs and Bobby Richards returned to the winner's circle; this time for a set of roses in the Yearling Championship for Jana Anderson. Mask Kentucky Girl and Susan Shemwell walked their way to reserve for Chris and Tami Proctor. Verna Clifford's entry, You're Busted and Logan Goosetree claimed third.

To Die For and Shayna Shaw topped the English Trail Pleasure Championship class for Janis Brown. Nite Wind's Bum and owner/exhibitor Sarena Westenhaver were reserve. Delight Of Professor and Hal Bowden rounded out the top three spots in the championship class for Hal and Martha Bowden.

Beaming to the Plantation Pleasure Championship class was Diane Gueck aboard A Beam Come True for Sanni Mathews. Lord Blackwatch and Sharon Gueck DeFord were reserve for Linda Ramon. Double Pistol and Lonnie Kuehn collected third for Emily Siciensky.

Diane Gueck returned for another set of International roses this time aboard Miss Magic Money in the International Lite-Shod Grand Championship class. Gueck and Mathews proudly own the grand champion. The Man Of Fashion and Sherrie Szucs showed their way to reserve for Jim Todd. Get N' Grander and Christy Mauney collected the yellow award for Roger and Christy Mauney.

The Carriage Pleasure Driving class was another of the added classes. Four entries answered the call for the class. Paris Rain and Jeff Givens thundered to the blue for Darwin and Linda James. She's A Double Major and Kathy Owen were reserve for Double Springs Farm. Drop The Hammer and R.D. Waldo were third for R.D. and Connie Waldo.

Only one entry ventured through the gates for the Costume class. "Merlin the Magician" and "Yippee-Yi-O-Ki-Yay Pegasus" made their way to the blue ribbon honor for Roger Richards.

The most coveted set of roses for the night was captured by Gen's Sundancer and Jeff Givens in the International Park Pleasure Grand Championship for Shane and Sarah Hastings. Heavenly Secret and owner/exhibitor Bill Reed were crowned reserve grand champions. Patriot Score and Dana Kanstul rounded out the top three of the championship for Dotson, Kanstul and More.

Yet another successful International completed and what a great silver anniversary it was! This highlights the International Grand Championships. For complete results please visit our web site at www.walkinghorsereport.com.