The Botetourt County Horseman’s Association tried something a little different in returning to the show ring this year, holding an weekday evening fun show on July 13 at Green Hill Equestrian Center in Salem, Virginia.
Stormy weather threatened as the show got under way at 5 p.m., but the thunder never grew close enough to delay the show. About 15 horses competed in flat classes throughout the evening. From Showmanship, Go As You Please Pleasure, Ride-A-Buck and Egg and Spoon, classes were relaxed and offered a lovely place to gain some arena miles. The show, judged by Lynda McGarry, was Blue Ridge Horse Force sanctioned as well.
Riders received ribbons and first-place riders also won a brush and T-shirt. The winner of the BCHA Members Only class also won a beautiful navy blue fleece cooler, a nod to the benefits of being a member of the club. It was surprising to not see more members try to win the gorgeous prize as only three competed in the class although there were many more at the show.
BCHA ran the show with a nod to the community as well. The popular Open Go As You Please benefited Barn Cat Buddies and another class also benefited efforts to upgrade the footing at Green Hill Park Equestrian Center. The club’s concession stand, which served grilled hot dogs with chili, chips, drinks and cookies, donated its profits to the feed fund for the Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue.
Exhibitors seemed to really enjoy the well-run show that ran along quickly and was finished between 8 and 8:30 with plenty of time to load up and go home before the sun set.
Roanoke Equestrian 