Click here for resultsThe 83rd edition of the Lexington Junior League Horse Show wrapped up Saturday evening, concluding it’s second successful year at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Kent Moeller, who has managed the show for a number of years, and his staff did a grand job with this event. Opinions abound that he has done a superior job with the logistics of the move to the Horse Park. It was a huge endeavor with many obstacles to cross following the show’s extended tenure at the Red Mile. Numbers for the show were great, with one of the largest groups of participants in recent years. Because of the proximity of the permanent barns to Rolex Stadium, all horses were stabled in temporary tents. This years event was judged by Peggy Alderman, North Clarendon, VT; David and Kristen Cater, Dunbarton, New Hampshire; Jim Cherry, Encinitas, California; and Kristen Stivers, Midway, Kentucky. Photography was handled by Howard Shatzberg. The livestream was by Richfield Video. The ringmasters included Don Baker of Louisville, Kentucky; and John Franzreb III, of Staten Island, New York. Organist Gene Wright returned to the keyboard following back surgery to complete his 44th year with the show. Kicking off the show each evening was the singing of the Star Spangled Banner, in which all in attendance stood in honor of the flag, per protocol. Even those not in sight of the flag stood in respect of the colors. Luckily, for the second year, the show has not been hampered with any rain. However, with the state of the art ring surface at the Rolex Stadium, added moisture would not be a problem. Heat and humidity, typical of July in Lexington, abounded, with temperatures hovering around ninety degrees each day. Rolex Stadium is a lovely venue with picturesque views of a lake and fountain. The stadium’s 6000 seat capacity makes it larger than the Red Mile. Because of the larger size, the crowds were spread out, making the venue feel at times, more empty than it actually was. Although the stadium and grounds are state of the art, the proximity of the busy Kentucky Horse Park posed a few problems. In addition to the Junior League show, a hunter show was also taking place, as well as the extremely popular Breyerfest. During the six night show, several special events took place, including a dog show. Wednesday, the military and first responders were honored, and on Thursday, everyone was encouraged to “paint the Horse Park pink” by wearing pink in support of breast cancer awareness. Elizabeth Goth and the ASHA once again sponsored a Youth Luncheon on Thursday. A fashion show benefitting the American Saddlebred Museum was held at neighboring Spindletop Hall on Saturday afternoon. The grand finale on Saturday saw reigning World Champion, TOP OF THE MARK, take the Five-Gaited Grand Championship with Tre Lee for owners, Golden Creek Farm. Kent Moeller wishes to “Thank all for coming…. We look forward to your return next year at the Kentucky Horse Park for our third year.”