From the Publisher – One for the Money, Two For the Show

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14 – March/April, 2023

By Tom Grabe

The completion of the March/April issue of The Equine Chronicle marks the beginning of something bigger than just this magazine. It also serves as the starter’s whistle to the big money show season–the time when the stars turn out with their best horses to compete at the biggest shows in the country in pursuit of big money, coveted prizes and prestigious titles.

Whether you’re talking about the Silver Dollar, the Sun Circuit, the March to the Arch, the Spring Breakout, the Madness, or any of the other big shows held in early spring, they all have something in common. They have something that keeps people coming back year after year. So, here’s the question: What is the ‘something’ that makes people drive or fly across the country to attend these circuits? Is it big payouts, great prizes, and top-notch competition? Is it the the social aspect of coming together with good friends? Is it the desire to see how your horse measures up against the best? Is it a bucket-list item–a once-in-a-lifetime trip to a show you’ve heard about but never attended?

No matter the reason, the fact is that tens of thousands travel long distances with their horses to show at these circuits. They drive right past or fly right over shows that are closer to home in the process. They plan their advertising campaigns around these events. They use their vacation time to ride rather than rest.

Click here to read the complete article
14 – March/April, 2023