We're counting down the days until next week's USEF Pony Finals! Julie is on the judging panel, and I'll be on site working and selling our book. We're both super excited, as it's been several years since we've attended this special competition.
This will be Julie's fourth time judging Pony Finals, and I believe my 15th year there. During my time working at The Chronicle of the Horse, the Pony Finals was one of my favorite events. I tried to go as often as I could to experience the great competition, excitement and watch children truly enjoying their ponies and making new friends.
My first Pony Finals was a memorable one. It was 1991, and the Pony Finals was held in North Carolina. It was there that I met Liza Towell (now Boyd), who earned the Grand Pony Hunter Champion and Large Pony Championship aboard Tickled Pink. The Towells and I became fast friends afterward, and I rode and trained with them regularly for many years and enjoy our continuing friendship.
This year will be another memorable one, because I'll be able to cheer on Liza's daughter, Elle. While time has flown by, it's wonderful to step back in time and remember when I showed ponies and relive some of that joy through watching another generation of equestrians starting their own journey with the animals we love.
As always,
Tricia
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