Whether your dad shows alongside you or is merely a spectator in the stands, we cannot imagine going to shows without that special guy. The early mornings and late nights would be much less memorable and meaningful without your dad there to cheer you on. His constant support is part of what drives you to succeed.
Father’s Day is a time to celebrate all of the dads around us. Dads come in all shapes and sizes with their quirks, like their sassy and witty remarks and constant bad jokes. His proud smile and goofy attitude make going to shows with him that much better.
Of all the things that make your dad great, his willingness to come with you and help at shows is something to be so thankful for.
There are so many reasons to thank your dad, but these six make us appreciate him the most.
Hauling to the shows
Admit it, we all know the long car trips would be boring without his stories about “the good old days” and his corny jokes. Your journey to the show wouldn’t be filled with as much laughter or adventure without your dad there by your side. If we’re honest, dad jokes are the best jokes. “What did the pony say when it was sick? I’m a little hoarse…”
Talk about a classic dad move.
Showing us what real music sounds like
The Eagles, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Queen, bluegrass, you name it, he plays it…unless it’s a current song, of course. Although you and your dad may not share the same taste in music, sing along, you’ll share these memories forever.
Helping with the horse
Helping paint your horse’s hooves black or pinning on your numbers helps more than those special dads could know. The little things that help you move more efficiently and get jobs done are what helps you to be more successful. Even though he probably doesn’t understand why we get the horse so dressed up and shiny for about two minutes in the show pen, we’re glad he’s there to help.
Willing to learn
If your dad is part of the group of horse show dads who knows nothing about showing, his cooperativeness when learning about showing is very important. The horse show world is confusing to anyone who’s not in it, but making sure your dad keeps the right attitude is key to teaching him more about our sport. Thank him for at least trying to understand why we love it so much.
Leading by example
Your dad always tries to create an image for you to look up to and grow toward. We should be thankful for his efforts in being a role model. Because of his positive influence, he inspires and encourages us to become leaders for those around us. He pushes us to be bold and stand up for what we believe in.
Giving advice
Your dad’s advice is something you should always take into consideration and carry with you. His opinion should be welcomed and appreciated because he’s trying to help you become the best version of you. Your dad’s advice comes from experiences of his own where he’s had the opportunity to grow and learn. His guidance is part of what helps us to work hard and dream big.
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Horse show dads, thank you for all you do for us. Thank you for cheering us on and supporting us as we compete, even if you don’t always understand this whole showing thing. Your continuous support inspires us to work hard and reach our goals. If it weren’t for you, we wouldn’t be able to reach some of our highest aspirations. Everything that you do teaches us to grow. In and out of the barn, you are the reason we reach for greatness.
