See that small covered judge’s booth in between the two rings? That’s where I spent today judging the Bellroy Stables IEA Horse Show. I realized on the drive home that I’d not remembered to take a photo from my spot overlooking the ring as I usually do, so this one from their website must suffice. One reason was that I was most concerned with keeping my hands warm, and my gloves were on most of the time with my phone tucked in the pocket of my much-needed battery-heated coat.
Despite the frigid weather, it was a fun show to judge, with six schools represented and very friendly officials and hosts. I hadn’t worked an IEA show in several years, so when they asked and I was free, I accepted the job. It was a two-hour drive each way, and I enjoyed the relaxing time in the car with the good fortune to time it just right to listen to the Top-40 countdown from 1976 both ways. I had to laugh thinking that the parents cheering on their children showing were not even born in ‘76. Wow, am I old.
Judging IEA shows is quite different than my usual shows, but they are a good reminder about the breadth and depth of our sport. Unlike USEF competitors, most of these riders will never be able to afford to own their own horse. But the IEA program allows them to compete on borrowed horses at shows hosted by schools and private stables where they compete on teams. Their camaraderie is refreshing, and it brings back memories of how I started riding and showing school horses before I had my own. I hope that some of these riders go on to enjoy horses beyond their school years and that their IEA experience ignites a lifelong passion for horses. They’ve enriched my life, and I’m so glad that I can flash back now and then to my youth and remember where I began on similar, scruffy Appaloosas, crossbred ponies and off-the-track Thoroughbreds. They may not beautiful or athletically gifted, but they are blessed with hearts of gold.