Editor’s Note: As a mother of a youth competitor, Martha Klyn was moved to write a letter addressed to AQHYA World Champions. She’s had the opportunity to watch her daughter bloom and place in the Top 10 at this show, but she’s also had a chance to watch a teammate evolve into an AQHYA World Champion. Everything done throughout the year, every practice, every show, small and large, every video watched, every clothing fitting, every tack purchase goes into this incredible showcase for these talented youth. Read her inspirational letter below.
Dear AQHYA World Champion,
What an incredible accomplishment! You were the last one standing as they called off the top fifteen in the world. You jumped for joy, hugged your horse and smiled as I’ve never seen you smile before. It was undoubtedly the highlight of your youth career so far. Congratulations to you on this fantastic win.
Things weren’t always smiles and hugs though. See, I’ve been watching you grow as an equestrian for the past ten years. So many changes, up and downs and challenges have occurred over the years. At times, it was difficult to find your focus and see where you were going. I remember watching endless practices over the years.
Most often, it was a different horse you were showing because with your family being in the horse business, you quickly found out that selling your equine partner happened, and it happened often. There were times you walked away from practice because you were frustrated, didn’t care that day or needed a change of scenery. You are human after all. Then, there were times you practiced longer and harder than anyone in the show group. As you grew older, your attitude evolved into a driven athlete with specific goals in mind.
Something special happened. We saw it evolve with our very own eyes. You found a partner that would stay with you and not be sold to a client. You were able to bond with her, give her treats and lie with her as she rested in her stall at the shows. You found your perfect teammate and an excellent equestrian quickly became one of the best in the world.
Your most impactful act happened outside of the show pen though on that particular August morning in Oklahoma City. You see, my daughter made it to the finals too at the American Quarter Horse Youth World Show, and she was beyond thrilled with that accomplishment. The spectators and exhibitors crowded to watch the top in the world work through an extensive pattern. Your pattern was practically flawless filled with breathtaking energy and correctness. You hit your marks and made the crowd cheer for you as you were given the impressive golden globe.
After all of the celebrations and photos, our show group walked back to our stalls, and I watched my child’s smile and celebration closely. And then it happened. You hurried to walk alongside her, put your arm around her, squeezed her and sincerely congratulated her on a top ten placing. Yes, you are a world champion, but more than that, you are a gracious and encouraging winner.
Keep it up, world champion. The younger ones are watching your winning run videos, and your fellow competitors want to achieve your success level. Please know this too…you have so many people who cheer you on for being so much more than a winner in the show pen. It’s been a joy seeing your impressive evolution.
Sincerely,
A Show Mom
About the Author: Martha Klyn lives in Ankeny, Iowa with her husband, Matt, and four children. She works in education for Drake University in Des Moines, IA. Martha has been involved with the AQHA industry since receiving her first quarter horse as a birthday present in 1978.
