Local trainer Patti Woods took six horse/rider combinations to the inaugural Novice Championship Quarter Horse show in Las Vegas, Nev. last month. The South Point Hotel and Casino hosted the show with the capacity to stable 1,200 horses in an air conditioned barn and arena. It was a fascinating place where one could literally walk from the casino through a single key lock door into the stables.
Despite a world where trainers are predominantly men coming from well-financed and well established training facilities, the small but talented group from Patti Woods show horses proved to be very competitive.
Megan Komori Kennedy and Chips Classy Hotrod won first place and the championship title in the Novice Youth Hunter Under Saddle class. Both Megan at 15 years old and her horse Rikki Bobbi at four years old were significantly younger than the majority of other riders and horses in the class. However, according to the judges, they proved they had what it takes to win the competitive class of more than 55 entries. It was truly a lifetime moment to remember. Megan and Rikki Bobbi also placed 10th in Hunt Seat Equitation and fourth in Youth Halter Geldings.
Eilish Anderson and Straight from the Source also had a successful show with the pair skillfully and consistently advancing to the final round of competition in each of the five events they entered. Eilish and Chase did notably well in the Novice Youth Western Pleasure class, placing seventh overall in a competitive class of more than 85 entries.
All riders have been preparing for the show since the spring and their hard work paid off with most riders advancing to the final round of competition in at least one event. Breanna Fear and Laced Investments fared well in the Novice Youth Hunter Under saddle class, advancing to the finals and placing 11th overall. Other riders with Patti Woods Show horses included Lorianne Freis, Joanne See and Taylor Wilson of Courtenay.
In August, trainer Patti Woods and nine riders attended the Canadian National Horse Show in Red Deer, Alta. Once again, dedication combined with many hours of training and practising paid off. The local group came home with multiple championship and reserve championship awards.