By Amanda Palmer
“What a magical show in the most incredible equine facility in the country!” says Amanda Palmer, FPHC President.
The Florida Paint Horse Club hosted a 3 day event at the World Equestrian Center- Ocala this past weekend. The event had 8552 entries, and welcomed not just Paint horses, but all horses to participate in their All Breed divisions. (Click on each photo in the galleries to enlarge):
This event also held a number of special events, some of which included a Yearling Challenge, a Two Year Old Challenge and an Overall Champion and Reserve Champion Halter award in both the mares and geldings divisions. These beautiful crystal Cowboy Bronze halter awards were given out in memory of longtime member, Maryellen James.
On top of the specialty awards, FPHC awarded beautiful custom awards in 14 Highpoint, Reserve Highpoint and third place divisions provided by Cedar Creek Design and Woodworking of North Carolina.
Along with prizes, family fun was an integral part of the weekend long festivities. FPHC provided an ornament station for kids that was available all weekend, a hula hoop contest, and a holiday party on Sunday. Exhibitors were encouraged to show in “ugly” sweaters on Saturday which allowed spectators to enjoy the show even more. WEC provided the Grand Arena for FPHC to share the American Paint Horse with many new people who were there for Winter Wonderland lights.
FPHC Secretary Brittany O’Bannon Siler explains, “For the youth kids in our group, showing under the lights of the grand arena, in front of hundreds of spectators, was the biggest stage they have ever shown in. It was an incredible experience for horses and riders, and a show that none of these kids will forget. Being able to showcase their and their horses talents for people who were there for the Winter Wonderland, really set the stage for a great weekend.”
“Florida Paint Horse Club looks forward to hosting this magical holiday event at the World Equestrian Center in 2023, and welcomes everyone to join them!” Palmer says.
FPHC Holiday Classic High Points and Special Awards
Scribe sheets:
Complete Results:
Holiday Classic Circuit_ High Point Awards 2022
More candid photos of from Florida Paint Horse Club are below!