Jeffrey Johns showed the girls how to get it done this afternoon, making a surprise appearance in L1 Amateur Horsemanship with the 7-year-old gelding, It’s A Good Pleasure. For Jeff, who is typically a Western Riding and Trail specialist, competing in Horsemanship brings with it some unique challenges. Up until a month ago, he wasn’t even planning on competing in the class.

“I put my hand down, and he did his job. All the preparation was worth it.”

“Now, I know exactly how he’s supposed to stand, how to present him, and where he looks the best. He’s helped me learn Hotrod’s buttons.”

“It’s just good sportsmanship. It’s important.”

“I couldn’t watch the scores or any other rides after she went. It was very nerve-wracking!”

“My trainer, Tom Robertson, has definitely gotten my confidence up. When I first started, I was so nervous because they’re so big. He’s helped me to trust the horse, relax, and make it happen. He tells me to come at the young horses easy. Don’t try to fix something right away. You have to ease into it.”

It was by the light of a Columbus harvest moon that Aaron Moses rode A Diva By Moonlight to win Senior Western Pleasure for owner, Jeri Lockwood.

“Maggie has really helped me with control, making sure my horse is listening to my legs, and not being just a passenger. She’s taught me how to communicate with my horse though my legs. I think that’s huge.”

Next, Lori Bucholz drove Larks Happy Days to win Amateur Pleasure Driving. 15-year-old “Fonzi,” aka “Arthur Fonzarelli,” was very excited about his Championship finish, so much so that he gave the camera a big smile following the awards’ presentation! “He really is a happy horse!” says trainer, Lainie DeBoer.

“Words cannot even describe it. It’s something I’ve only dreamt about.”