by Kay Swisher
NEW MARKET, Va. – The Shenandoah Valley Horseman Association and the Virginia Walking Horse Association held a joint banquet at the Johnny Appleseed Restaurant in New Market, Va., to honor their High Point Champions for the 2010 show season. The two groups enjoyed the famous Johnny Appleseed fritters before a delicious dinner buffet. Erie Schlabach provided dinner music and after the awards ceremony the group enjoyed his dancing music.
SVHA President Martin announced a new membership recruiting program. The current member that recruits the most members by the Spring Show scheduled for May 21, 2011, at the Broadway, Va., show grounds, will be given a $150 gift certificate.
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SVHA President Brooke Swecker announced Hanna Jane Upson as the Shenandoah Valley Horseman Association Juvenile Rider of the Year. VWHA President Mary Swecker awarded her with a plaque for the honor.
VWHA Amateur Rider of the Year John Eubank shared the spotlight with his family: soon to be daughter-in-law Kayla Digiovanni, Jesse and Beth. Eubank’s family helped show the champions Rowdy Fred, Mr. 24KT Ritz and The Texas Outlaw for both associations.
John, Mary Jane, Hanna and Samantha Upson earned quite a haul from each association with their horses Power Generated Blaze, Tank Williams and Jazz Bouquet. Hanna was named the SVHA Juvenile Rider of the Year. Tank Williams captured the SVHA Pleasure Horse of the Year honor.
Ann Hawn and Bail Bondsman won the Ladies Specialty with both associations, and was also named as the Performance Horse of the Year with the VWHA. Husband Dan helped to carry all her awards home back to Pennsylvania.
Kay Swisher and The Tiger Tale received the SVWHA Amateur Specialty honor. Kay and Barbados earned the VWHA Amateur Specialty award. Mom Bettie Swisher shared in the glory by receiving the reserve honors for Silver Desperado from both associations in the Park Pleasure division.