What happens when you combine the American Quarter Horse, hogs and pork producers from around the world, and approximately 100,000 visitors to Des Moines, Iowa? It can only mean one thing – it’s Iowa Show Circuit time. The 2015 Iowa Show Circuit, in its 48th year, ran from May 31 – June 6 at the lovely Jacobsen Building on the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
The Iowa Show Circuit began on Sunday with an all-novice show judged by Leo Fourre. Following, the novice show a special clinic was held showcasing horsemanship and ranch horse riding. 2015 AQHYA champions Addison Fjelstad and Klay McDowall shared their winning rides while AQHA judge and professional horseman, Kelly McDowall, provided commentary and answered questions from the audience.
A new show schedule was used this year which received many positive comments. Show days were completed by 7:00 p.m. which gave people plenty of time to prepare for the next day and enjoy the World Pork Expo. Youth exhibitor Maddie Herlocker found some to time to watch a hog show and chatted with some youth participants. She shared, “Going into the barn I had no idea what it was like to show pigs. Coming out I learned it was very similar to what we do with horses and the commitment we make.”
Class numbers were up from last year with most western pleasure classes being split to accommodate the larger numbers. There was a new award given this year at the Iowa Show Circuit for horses in the green classes called “Green4Green.” Kris Moorman discussed the importance of rewarding the green classes. “With great reception of the all novice show last year we want to added another award for 2015. This award gave $500 to the high point green horse in each of the four green classes.”
Some of the circuit winners for the series included Whos Cheatin Who with Patrick Heeley in the senior pleasure and the green trail, Certainly A Hot Lady with Jamie Dowdy in the green and junior western riding, and Slew of Details with Lily Anderson in the youth hunter under saddle. Kaleena Weakly and No Question Im Lazy were named Open All Around Horse.
People who show at the Iowa Show Circuit can appreciate the value of the flat fee rate as well as the extremely nice show facilities, great competition, and infinite action with the World Pork Expo. It’s understandable why this circuit has become a favorite of many AQHA exhibitors.
CLICK HERE to check out candids kindly taken by Cara Allison Klyn, Jamie Radebaugh, Stephanie Lynn and sponsored by Prince Farms, LLC
