November 11, 2025 - ASHBA Youth had a blast this fall at both the Ocala International Horse Show and the National Academy Championship Horse Show, where hands-on learning and fun-filled activities took center stage.

At Ocala, thanks to Youth Council Chair Alexa Dahl, attendees enjoyed a special meet-and-greet with 2x WGC Midd’s Delaney, legendary trainer Smith Lilly, and licensed official Allison Deardorff. Allison shared practical show ring tips—like how not to annoy the judge—just in time for that evening’s Junior Judging session with Christy Parker, which drew 35 enthusiastic participants. Youth also received signed posters from Smith Lilly and met standout Saddlebreds from West Wind Stables, including WCC WC Arrowhead’s Different Breed Of Cat and WCC WC SH Michael Douglas. The excitement continued with a center ring photo and a spirited Disney & American Saddlebred Trivia Night with Avalon Stables at the ASHBA cabin.

 

Meanwhile, at the National Academy Championship, 46 Junior Judges took part in a lively judging contest, while the Youth Council’s Scavenger Hunt kept participants snapping photos and completing challenges all weekend long. Congratulations to Junior Judging winners Keegan Krienke, Addy Gage, Maddie Strube, and Ashlyn Vaughn, who earned the opportunity to judge center ring on Sunday and connect directly with licensed judges for an unforgettable learning experience.