editor’s notes
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by Melissa Powell
MINI HOURS PROGRAM
A
fter the awe-inspiring experience of
the World Show, I enjoy coming back
to my cubby-hole office and review-
ing the stories I experienced first hand and
those that were shared by fellow horse en-
thusiasts.
One horse, in particular, caught the eye of
several spectators. Still quick and agile at 27
years of age, this little gelding swept the field
in both age divisions of Hunter and held his
own in the other classes he was shown in as
well. We couldn’t help but share the story
of Fanfares Check My Label written by the
proud owner, Kathy Howard.
Tucked in here and there are other stories
of individuals who aimed high and accom-
plished their goals. Even more importantly,
they touched the lives of others along the
way. Each has its own plot, but the common
element is the love of a Miniature, a subject
near to all of our hearts.
For me, watching winning horses and their
proud owners never get old. Horse show
competition is a drug for which there is no
cure. The thrill and excitement of just watch-
ing is real; whether it’s someone you know
personally or a horse you raised or once
owned. While accolades go to the showman
and the winning horse, let’s remember how
this all began. lt could have started as a de-
cision, a whim, a vision or maybe even just
a dream -to produce that one outstanding
equine. To that end, I want to share this fit-
ting tribute.
Testament to a Horse Breeder
by Carol Steppe
“A trainer can go worldwide looking for horses
to complete the show string. A breeder must
create a show string at home. They must
decide on each breeding, be there for each
birth, worry about each cough, enjoy each
great moment, endure each disappointment,
and celebrate each victory. Breeders cannot
just get another one; they have to make
another one, wait a year to see what will
2 Miniature Horse World
WINTER 2017
happen, try to accomplish greatness year
after year after year, learn patience, learn
bloodlines, learn crosses, learn to stick with
their gut and vision, and learn to persevere.
We also know that in life, there is no greater
reward than walking into a stable and
knowing that each stall contains a unique
example of your work, and hopes, and dreams.
And to make it all perfect, they love you back
and nicker when they hear your voice. This is
the life of a breeder.”
Merry Christmas to each of you and may
your New Year be a happy one,
GET STARTED
logging your
MINI HOURS
today!
See your AMHA horse featured in
the Miniature Horse World
and win some great prizes
along the way!
Application to sign up and
tracking forms are online at
www.amha.org