If you’re new to showing Quarter Horses, or if you’re a Rookie or L1 competitor, you won’t want to miss The Little Buckeye and Buckeye Classic that kicks off today in Wilmington, Ohio. New this year, the Buckeye will be catering to industry newcomers with a variety of opportunities and special events.
First-time exhibitors will receive $200 in Buckeye Bucks as a gift from the show, and Rookie exhibitors will receive $100. This evening from 6-8 pm, there will be a Rookie and Level 1 Overview and Welcome Reception where AQHA’s Manager of Shows, Justin Billings, will explain the Rookie and Leveling programs and be available to answer questions.
Another unique opportunity this year are youth and amateur mentors. Pair up with an experienced youth or amateur who will serve as your horse show guide. Call or text Scott Nemeth at 734-845-2790 to be set up with a mentor. Also, competitors without trainers may take advantage of the Stall With A Trainer program, where you can stall in the same aisle with a Professional Horseman.
On Tuesday, July 18th, at 6 pm, come to the Sanctuary Arena for a clinic, especially for Rookie and Level 1 exhibitors only. Participants can choose one discipline from each group- Session 1: Showmanship, Horsemanship, Western Riding, and Halter or Session 2: Equitation, Trail, Ranch Riding, Open Riding and Q&A. Please text or call Scott Nemeth at 734-845-2790 to reserve a spot.
All competitors will have the opportunity to take advantage of FREE entries during the show. The Little Buckeye will take place July 14-16 and all YOUTH entries will be FREE. The Buckeye Classic will take place July 18-23 and all AMATEUR entries will be FREE.
Judges for The Little Buckeye are Jerry Erickson, Ryan Kail, Gretchen Mathes, Rick Meredith, Allen Mitchels, and Kristy Starnes. Judges for the Buckeye Classic will be Charlene Carter, Clint Fullerton, Lori Gordon, Clay MacLeod, Rob Meneely, Scott Neuman, John Tuckey, Kendra Weis, and Daren Wright.
In between classes, stop by The Equine Chronicle Hospitality Tent, which will be up for the duration of the show providing cold water and snacks, and keep an eye out for the mobile Chronicle Cart for goodies on the go!
There are so many fun special events scheduled for the show. Scroll below to view the schedule.
Friday, July 14- Pizza With Justin and AQHA Leveling Q&A
Monday, July 17- Buckeye Open Golf Outing
Tuesday, July 18- Buckeye Rookie Clinic
Wednesday, July 19- Exhibitors’ Dinner and Donkey Races
Thursday, July 20- Thank You Reception
Sunday, July 16 & 23- Cowboys For Christ
Stay tuned for results, photos, and a blog from Kelly Rauschenbach on EquineChronicle.com.