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JoAnn Shannon

Finally, Horseshow Finals - Part 2


An Olympic theme for finals 2024

The best part about horse show finals is that during the parts of the day when you aren’t showing (usually nine hours), you get an opportunity to watch others.


There’s an intoxicating mix of riders of all ages and skill sets. The horses, handsomely decked out in braids, appear determined to put their best foot forward. Under the tent, there’s an endless stream of complimentary food and refreshing drinks.


You learn that not all trainers are alike. Coaching techniques vary. When I overheard a trainer berating her young rider for something she did or didn’t do with her hands, I felt myself blush with embarrassment. In contrast, another trainer staunched the flow of tears when her rider went off course by saying, “Let’s talk about what went right.”


So too, not all riders are alike. Managing disappointment is a learned skill. When I saw a girl smack her pony with a crop after exiting the ring I wanted to shout, “It’s not him, it’s you!”


Fortunately, there’s plenty displays of good horsemanship. Like the rider who fell off when her horse refused a jump and scrambled up so she could pat her horse’s neck and tell him everything was all right.


Georgelynn Team at “C” Finals

The Georgelynn Team, led by our trainer Jennifer George (supported by assistant trainer, Caitlin Mata), was awash in ribbons. But we were much more than that. We were a cohesive, supportive, competitive, and competent team of riders. We’re successful because of Jen who always insists we be fair to ourselves, be fair to each other, and be more than fair to our horses.


Left to right: Jen, Moose, & Caitlin

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