When I was 16 or 17 years old I desperately wanted to go to a horse show alone and feel like a grown up.  I saw so many other kids my age going it alone with just their trainers. 

No parents around. 

I wanted to be independent. 

Finally my parents said OK to the idea.  We were showing at the NY State Fair which began during my parent's normal work week.  It was decided that I could ride out there with someone else and handle showing in my one event that day by myself.

I carried all my stuff from the truck, which was quite heavy and killed my shoulder...but I complained not.  I pulled up/bumped my braids by myself.  They came out horribly, but it was only one class, so I dealt with it.  I forgot my harness to my helmet and had to go back for it myself with horse in tow.

Finally though, I was in the arena.  That part didn't matter because as much as parents, trainers and friends are there for your support, when you're in the show ring (and you know what you're doing) they are obsolete.  I jumped perfectly.  I showed on the flat flawlessly.  We were good.  As I stood in the line up I felt confident in my ride and skimmed the vast audience for a familiar face. 

I found no one.

Then they announced the placings...

I took first place in the Youth Hunter Hack out of a very large competitive field of horses.

Now this would be a good time to mention that at the State Fair, and only at the fair where Quarter Horse shows are concerned...when you win, you are asked to do a victory pass with your blue ribbon pinned to your horse's bridle.  I was tickled pink....my first victory pass...


            ....and no one there to see it.


There was no dad with the video camera.  No mom whoo-whoo-ing loudly.  Even my trainer had left the ring to prepare her next rider. 

Fox and I were all alone in our victory celebration.  My only comfort was that they always take a photo of the victory pass, so at least that I could share with my folks.

Well the picture came out badly (although I'm sure they bought the proof for keepsake purposes.)


So this begs the questions....just like the proverbial tree falling in the forest...if you win and no one is there to see it....did you really win?  

        Of course I won...I have a plaque on my wall that reads International Horse Show. 

But was it as sweet?

    ....no.


Never win alone guys...make sure you always have your cheerleaders with you...


                    ....everyone needs a fan base.