Out Of The Box Thinking – Ways Events Are Bringing the Fun Back

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436 – October, 2017

By Kristen Spinning

Horse show organizers around the country have recognized that in a field crowded with options, they must offer something special to keep exhibitors hauling to their events. The result is that shows are becoming more fun with a multitude of fresh ideas that aren’t restricted to competition alone. Is this the future of horse showing? Several successful show organizers share their views on why it’s the experience that matters.

Southeast

Florida’s Gulf Coast and Gold Coast Quarter Horse Circuits in Tampa, combined with the Fox Lea Farms Winter Circuit in Venice, offer a trifecta of prestigious AQHA and NSBA shows that are a highlight of many an exhibitor’s schedule. Florida in December and January? Sun? Beaches? Golf? It seems like a no-brainer. The facilities and location are certainly a draw, and there are plenty of things for the family to do — even for the “non-horsey” members who typically groan about another week spent at a show. Yet, while organizers capitalize on their ideal location, they don’t stop there. They’re determined that everyone has fun, feels genuinely welcomed, and is appreciated. Show Manager Kathy Avolt’s service-centric philosophy is clear, “We know you have a choice. We know you can go elsewhere to a horse show. We want you to know we’re glad you chose us.”

The three Florida shows attract high quality horses and offer some pretty tough competition, yet they retain a welcoming environment for all. They’re known for having some great parties to boot. Standouts include the New Year’s Party, Progressive Dinner Party, and free breakfast offerings. Avolt is grateful for everyone’s enthusiastic sponsorship. She says, “It allows us to offer the parties that benefit everyone. Being able to offer a free breakfast means you don’t have to reach into your own pocket all the time for that extra money. Also, you don’t have to win your class or even place to participate in something nice.” Avolt adds that the free lunches and dinners are also a nice break from concession food without having to leave the grounds.

Avolt manages other shows, both large and small, and has some observations about what makes them successful. She says, “Most shows now strive to do something nice for their exhibitors, because we all know we have to give back. We want exhibitors of all levels to feel appreciated. At the Southern Ohio Quarter Horse Association Futurity, we gave away a show halter to a random draw winner in the Level 1 Amateur Showmanship and the Level 1 Youth Showmanship. It turned out that both exhibitors were new to showing Quarter Horses, and both exhibitors needed new show halters.” It’s an example of how a small giveaway can make a huge and lasting impact.

Click here to read the complete article
436 – October, 2017