Article and Photos: Jim Drake

HOW DID YOU SPEND YOUR Sunday?? I was at a show with some great horses and those who can really ride them. 

“OFQHA” (Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Assoc.) had its last show of the year in Old Washington, Ohio at the Guernsey County Fairgrounds. The day was just perfect and the completers were saddled and ready for a whole day of fun and fellowship. The day reminded me of a “Fall” ride where the wind and sun met in perfect harmony. If you’ve never competed or had a chance attend this type of show you need to.

This being my first it was an eye opening experience. As you’ll find throughout the country the attendees are as down to earth and friendly as people can be.  It was great to see the versatility and the dedication that these riders and trainers show to carry on the heritage of a great breed of horse.  The flexibility and durability of the Quarter Horse is known but having the chance to see them work and the smiles of the riders is wroth the time and effort in training and loving of these fine animals.

At the foundations shows everyone wins. I mean, those who try still winning even if they do not place. You are judged on the performance, technique, fundamentals and the skill in each event. The riders and the horses are judged and together they work together as a team.  Men, woman, kids and even those first timers competed and had great fun doing it.  They showed their stuff in class’s like, RANCH CUTTING-W/T RANCH RIDING-COW WORKING-RANCH REINING-STEER DAUBING-COW MAZE-BREAKAWAY ROPING-RANCH TRAIL to mention a few.  Naturally seeing each of these will help you to see the basics that form this great breed.