The Gateway Classic Benefit Horse Show (formerly known as the Boystown Gateway Classic) was held May 12-15th at the National Equestrian Center in St. Louis, Missouri. There were six judges over four days including Jeffrey Pait, Bruce Walquist, Jeff Allen, David Fairchild, Bennie Sargent, and Russ Smith. They also had a very popular all inclusive circuit fee of $375.00!
“The first day, when we were unloading, the Therapeutic Riding Center was donating their time and helping people unload their rig,” exhibitor Nichole Chirico told GoHorseShow.com. “That was a huge help. They were all extremely kind to help us unload in the 90 degree weather.”
Despite the weather and the tornado siren that went off on Saturday–amateur exhibitor Kaleena Katz Weakly said that the show management was very accommodating. “It was a great place to get some practice in for the Redbud, as many of us were there for that reason, along with getting those last few qualifying points for Select exhibitors,” Kaleena said. “The halter was deep with leading halter trainers Luke Castle, Jason Smith and Andy Staton all having stock there.”
The show also held mouse races, a BBQ lunch one afternoon, and an ice cream social. The halter classes had a money grab bag that people were able to win stuff in. The all-around awards were iHomes and Wii’s. The Circuit Awards were also great–a photo from Rosemary Lahmann Photography.
“I also loved showing to four judges on Saturday and Sunday. If you have a good ride, it’s a great way to get points toward World qualifying,” Chirico said. “I haven’t been able to show most of the qualifying season due to colic surgery and being a full-time college student, so, it was a great way to pick up multiple points in each event on a single day. Thanks to this show–I am just two to three points shy from qualifying in a few of the events I show.”
Thanks to Nichole Chirico of Chirico Graphics & Photos for providing the candids from the show.
