Day 7
WHOA hosted a “ Meet and Greet ” where any one could come ride a TWH . While light in numbers this year the ones riding were having a blast . The Kona Ice truck pulled in center ring and gave free icies to any and all ! Manna Pro provided this delicious treat . Thank you Manna Pro and the Jason Bachert family ! This night proved to be a night of tearful smiles , many of the winners were crying happy tears as they exited the ring with their gorgeous trophies . Last year Rhonda Martocci ’ s happy tears when she won aboard Side Lined had me concerned as I gave her the ribbon . I asked “ are you ok ”. Rhonda replied , tears still flowing , “ just so so happy !” SOOO tonight when we saw tears we realized what an important moment the riders , trainers and owners were experiencing . I cried once or twice my own self---happy tears .
Day 8
FINAL ROUND !!!!! International High Point winners were announced . The Versatility High Point was : Tuff Night At The Ritz with Tracy Pinson up and reserve was Victory Trip with Linda and Dan Starnes making the good rides , these placings were just reversed from 2016 . The 17 and Under High Point went to Shelby Finch with reserve 17 and Under going to a new International participant , Carter Gleghorn . The 11 and Under Champion was Mallory Johnson , reserve was Savannah Obert . Best In Show , I believe the International is the only TWH Show to offer this class . This is where if you have tied first or second in a Championship you may enter and compete for Best In Show . There are two divisions for the BIS , canter and non canter . The Best In Show Canter went to Twilight Reflection with Scot MacGregor up for Martha Child . Congratulations to Scot , Martha and of course Twilight Reflection . The Non-Canter Best In Show was won by Side Lined with Joe Lester making the ride for the Howard Roberts family of VanBuren , Missouri . Side Lined electrified the late night crowd with his performance . He was just as impressive with Kendra in the saddle or her father , Howard in the Amateur Classes .
14 • Walking On