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What Matters? A Work in (Progress) Matters

“Your present circumstances don't determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” So says the president of High Point University, Dr. Nido Qubein. And so it is in our present state of the show horse industry.

Shows have started in earnest all over the country. Sure, there are restrictions and protocols and rules that we are unfamiliar with. Sure, it’s different than it was last year. Sure, it may not be what we want and what we like. But, as surely as it is not as it was three months ago (when we had no shows at all), it is not as it will be in three months from now. There has been lots of discussion on social media (surely the worst place in the world to get accurate information) about what shows will be like, what will Louisville look like, what will be and what can be. All with the requisite amount of wringing of hands and gnashing of teeth. But, remember, as everything inevitably changes, so too is this a work in progress.

Volunteer committees and individuals; horse show management and staff, are working hard to make shows happen at all. And then attempting to live within the regulations. Just watch and listen to the video from this past weekend’s Bonnie Blue Horse Show in Lexington, VA. It tells the story of the monumental efforts led to an incredibly successful horse show. 

But, if there’s one thing we’re certain of right now, it’s this—today, we have horse shows and one month ago we didn’t. It’s a time to be grateful. It’s a time for celebration. It’s a time to see our friends over the masks and know they’re the same people we saw before. We can talk from six feet away. We can keep each other safe by being respectful. And we can keep horse shows happening if we respect what is and not wish for what isn’t, and behave as if nothing changed.

Some things also do not change. And that’s the beauty and athleticism of our wonderful American Saddlebred. And the skill of our riders and drivers. And the talents of our trainers and grooms and instructors and photographers and officials. It’s so gratifying to see. Even if it has to be seen over a mask.

Indeed, this is a Work in Progress where what is true today may not be the same as tomorrow. But what is absolutely true is that, for now, Horse Shows are Back! And, that’s wonderful.

What Matters? A Work in Progress Matters