The second annual Merial Champions Summit was held last week in Nashville at the historic Union Station Hotel. The hotel in located in the heart of downtown Nashville near Broadway where country music can be heard from all the restaurants and venues nearby. Thirteen trainers enjoyed a day and a half of information and education on the latest products from Merial and other AQHA corporate sponsors.
The lucky invitees met horseman and women from all across the country and discussed business management, horse care, insurance updates, and financial planning. Of course, live country music and great meals rounded out the program and provided great forums for these professionals to share best practices.
The trainers included: Chris Arentsen, Jon Barry, Brad Kearns, Whitney and Michael Lagace, Steve Meadows, Rob and Mary Meneely, Keith Miller, Jim and Deanna Searles, Adam Wainscott and Blake Weis.
The presenters included: Beckie Peskin, Merial, Dr. Meg Green, Merial, Dr. Andy Bennett, Merial, Dr. Lance Allen, Markel Insurance, Ann Hollis, Merrill Lynch, Jessica Normand, SmartPak, Denise Farris, Farris Law Firm, Jim Gibby, Equine Professional Consultant and Ward Stutz, AQHA.
Trainer and attendee Adam Wainscott told GoHorseShow that it was a very educational trip where he was able to learn from professionals in the industry in a stress free environment away from the horses.
“I would recommend anyone that is invited to any future summits that they should definitely attend,” says Wainscott. “I was impressed with the professionalism and hospitality of everyone involved with putting on this event. It was great to learn different ways to communicate with our clients and learn business tips from Jim Gibby and to find out more about stomach ulcers from Merial and why their products work. It isn’t something I have thought much about in the past but it was helpful to learn more information from the vets and other people from different aspects in the industry other than training horses.”
One of the most entertaining moments aside from the evening activities was the stomach-building exercise. Following Dr. Green’s presentation, the group was divided into three teams. Each of them were given craft supplies and charged with building an equine stomach. They had to present their creations to a panel of three judges (Dr. Andy Benett from Merial, Deb Johnson and Kelley Mundrick, also from Merial). The winning team consisted of: Jon Barry, Brad Kearns, Whitney Lagace, Mary Meneely and Steve Meadows. According to many in attendance, their presentation was priceless! For their winning creation and explanation, each team member received a $50 Visa gift card.
Click here for more information about Merial Equine, the makers of EQUIOXX, EQVALAN, GASTROGARD, IMRAB, RECOMBITEK, ULCERGARD, ZIMECTERIN AND ZIMECTERIN Gold.
