JACKSON, MS. – Preparations are underway for the Dixie National Equestrians with Disabilities Show scheduled for February 9 & 10, 2021 at the Kirk Fordice Equine Center, on the State Fairgrounds in Jackson, MS.
But this year has brought sadness to the Mississippi Quarter Horse Association with the passing of a long time member and MQHA Hall of Fame Inductee Mary Hopkins.
Miss Mary, as she was called by many, passed in mid-July. She was an AQHA judge for many years. But more importantly, she helped found the Equestrian’s with Disability program with AQHA and the Dixie National Quarter Horse Show. Our show started as an open show under her guidance in 1989 and then went on to be associated with AQHA once AQHA established the program.
Starting this year, our 23rd year as an AQHA show, the show will now be known as the Dixie National Mary Hopkins Memorial Equestrians with Disabilities Show.
AQHA Judge and Dixie National Chairman Tom McBeath has been involved with the show for many years. He says, “Miss Mary put in a lot of time and energy to get this program off the ground many years ago as well as involvement with the Dixie National portion. The healing capabilities of being around horses has been documented. It is an amazing experience seeing the bond between the horses and riders. I believe Miss Mary would be honored to have it named after her.”
The show boasts FREE entry fees and no stall fees for exhibitors. The Mississippi Quarter Horse Youth Association pays all fees. We will offer four sets of AQHA points, four sets of NSBA points, and four sets of PHBA points.
Don’t forget, the composite winner in each class is awarded the coveted Dixie National Jacket. This will be the best deal yet for equestrians from all over the country to come and join us in a competitive but yet friendly environment.
Please make plans to join us at our show on February 9 & 10, 2021, in Jackson, MS. Visit www.mqha.org for more information.
