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Youth Activities Shine at the 2026 Lexington Junior League Horse Show

 

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July 19, 2026: Lexington, KY — The American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association (ASHBA) once again brought a full schedule of youth activities to the Lexington Junior League Horse Show, creating opportunities for young exhibitors to learn, connect, and make lasting memories throughout the week at the Kentucky Horse Park. 

The week's activities kicked off with the Youth Picnic Party & Vision Board Workshop, sponsored by Sally Jackson. This year's "Picnic in the Park" theme transformed the Horseman's Lounge into a welcoming gathering space where youth enjoyed lunch, creative activities, and an inspiring presentation from Sports Performance Coach, Betty Baird Kregor of Straight Shot Inc. The event drew one of its largest crowds to date, with young exhibitors spending the afternoon designing vision boards, making bracelets and keychains, enjoying face painting, and connecting with fellow Saddlebred enthusiasts. The combination of hands-on activities, meaningful conversation, and community made the luncheon one of the week's standout events. 

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Junior Judging continued to be a highlight of the show, welcoming over 60 participants who put their judging skills to the test during the Wednesday evening performance session. Despite rain earlier in the day, young judges filled one of the lower seating sections, carefully evaluating classes alongside expert judges Brooke Jacobs and Kristin Stivers. Junior Judging also featured a Dirty Soda bar that was wildly popular. ASHBA Youth Council members helped check in participants and facilitate the event alongside members from the ASHBA Youth Committee. Thanks to the generous support of Freedman's, participants competed for various fun prizes recognizing their efforts. The contest continues to provide an outstanding educational opportunity, helping youth develop critical evaluation skills that are valuable both inside and outside the show ring. Junior Judging winners Noah Jeffries and Zoe McDonnell were also able to judge from center ring Thursday night as part of their winning prize! They gained additional insight and perspective from this center ring view. Special recognition and thank you to Sally Jackson for her long-standing support and sponsorship of this popular ASHBA Youth Program.  

Misdee.jpgThursday morning featured a special Meet & Greet with one of the industry’s most accomplished riders, Misdee Wrigley Miller and her beloved mare CH Reedann’s Heirloom, aka Luna. The youth participants enjoyed an unforgettable opportunity to visit with one of the industry's best, ask questions, and spend time meeting Luna and taking photos with the pair. The Meet & Greet was fun but created meaningful conversations and memorable moments for the next generation of Saddlebred enthusiasts. 

Throughout the week, youth also had the opportunity to participate in the ASHBA Youth Council Scavenger Hunt, encouraging junior exhibitors to explore the showgrounds while learning more about the Lexington Junior League Horse Show. The activity added another fun and interactive element to the week's youth programming. Congratulations to Maclyn Hairston for winning the 13 & under age group in the Scavenger Hunt and Skyler Jones and Aubrey Walters who tied for first in the 14-21 age group! 

None of these events would have been possible without the support of Sally Jackson and the dedication of the Youth Council & Youth Committee members, volunteers, and ASHBA staff. Their enthusiasm helped create a welcoming environment where young exhibitors could build friendships, develop new skills, and strengthen their connection to the American Saddlebred community. 

From educational opportunities and creative activities to meeting industry leaders and enjoying time with friends, the 2026 Lexington Junior League Horse Show once again demonstrated ASHBA Youth’s commitment to investing in the future of the breed.

 

Lexington Junior League Junior Judging Results:  

13 & Under 

  1. Noah Jeffries  

  1. Taylor Hawkins 

  1. Averie Jensen 

  1. Maclyn Hairston 

  1. Peyton Russell 

  1. Kressa Pugh 

 

14 – 21  

  1. Zoe McDonnell  

  1. Aubrey Walters 

  1. Kaylee Walters 

  1. Kennedy Martin 

  1. Holly Willis 

  1. Addison McDonnell