AHA President, Cynthia Richardson. Judges, l-r: Mike Beethe, Joel Gangi, Vicki Humphrey, Mark Himmel, Jeremy Harper and Chris Culbreth.
Every big horse show is filled with little stories of triumph. This year in Brandon, the Arabian community united around Terri Budd as she rode to a national top ten in Arabian Ladies Side Saddle Open. “It was great to show; I missed showing and it gave me a goal to work towards. I would like to thank Carol Johnson for asking me to show her great horse Vikktor. It is great to have such support from the Arabian community—it really meant a lot to me thank you everyone.” On the show in general, Terri adds, “Canadian Nationals is always a great show; it’s laid back, but there is great and tough competition. It’s nice to see great friends that you don’t see all year. It’s also great to take new clients to experience the great competition. The Canadian National Committee always makes you feel welcome.” A show built on enthusiasm, support, community, horsemanship, and quality, the 2014 Canadian Nationals proved to be one of the top events offered to the Arabian horse community. As usual,
the Canadians welcomed all with enthusiasm and community support. Ann Benson shares, “Showing in Canada is always a great time—it is a national show with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The schedule allows for time with friends and new acquaintances. There is always plenty of staff to meet your needs and help is available when needed. The great weather we had was a bonus.” Now that the 2014 Canadian Nationals is merely a memory, McDonald reflects on the success of the show. “Everyone seemed to be really happy this year. There were different trainers and a lot of first time people who really enjoyed themselves and said they would be back, so that was very positive feedback from the exhibitors. So, overall, the show was a great success; lots of people were very pleased.” McDonald adds, “Canadian Nationals is a fun show and we certainly appreciate all the exhibitors coming to the show and making it what it is. We look forward to people returning in the future.” ■ Volume 45, No. 4 | 225AA