champion wins and placed strong right in the middle of the pack, and ahead of team Quarter Horse! While the second trail ride event saw the return of the same riders from the first trail event, Team Gypsy Vanner decided that the contributions of a team are dependent on all of its members. Clononeen Tullamore Dew returned as anchor for Rollin Thunder Bailey who entered the trail class for the first time ever. At this point in the competition the team had the opportunity to put some valuable experience on all of the horses in preparation for the next battle event. Both Tully and Bailey completed the bonus obstacle of dragging a log around a pylon. The final placing for Team Gypsy Vanner in this Spruce Meadows 2014 Battle of the breeds was 7th which brought them up 5 spots from their 12th place finish at this venue in 2013. The team placed just as they had competed, strong and steady in the middle of the pack against some of the toughest competitors they’ve ever been up against! But the story doesn’t end there!! The absolute highlight of the event was the collective efforts of Gypsy Vanner enthusiasts everywhere uniting to vote Team Gypsy Vanner the Fan Favourite! Clononeen Tullamore Dew, Rollin Thunder Bailey and North Fork Cash entered the coveted International Ring to accept the Fan Favourite award, on National Live Television, from the owner of Spruce Meadows, and Telus CEO event sponsors. Overall team Gypsy Vanner proved themselves to be steady and reliable contenders in a top notch field of competitors, as well as the undisputed crowd favourite! By Jackie Johnson
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