Fall Fest 2015 In Review
- poeschelbug
- Oct 6, 2015
- 2 min read
Image From: medallionstallion.com
The Minnesota Breeder's Fall Festival is one of the most well-known Arabian shows in the Midwest, and for good reason. It's a purely amateur-only show, oriented around the keeping the Arab bloodlines pure. Half-Arabians are unable to participate in this show, and only purebreds bred to stallions nominated for the program are able to perform. Nominated stallion breedings are auctioned off every year with the promise of a big victory check in the winner's future.
Image From: medallionstallion.com
Downers
Unfortunately, 2015 has been one of the smallest years in terms of attendence yet. The amount of horses in every area have been drastically declining as the show goes on. Previously, halter classes would require a cut to get into the semi-final in order to get into the final. Even performance classes had cuts to get into a final class. In 2015, most classes averaged only ten to fifteen horses, with many even delving into the single digits.
Along with the diminishing numbers, the income from the stallion auction has been on its way out. In prior years, stallion lots would sell for insane numbers. Spending $50,000 on a breeding was not a strange event to witness. But the highest selling lot this year was only $10,000. Many lots weren't even able to be sold. Having the auction be unproductive is a bit disturbing for the future of the Fall Fest show. The auction is how the show makes its money and allows the victors to receive payback. If numbers keep declining, the Fall Fest will be unable to support itself.
Plus Sides
Even with all the negatives, the show wasn't all bad. Many highlights made the show intriguing, such as the silent auction and free meals for all in attendance. A handful of trainers got together to put on a fundraising event for a fellow professional injured in the ring by hosting a talent show. And my personal favorite is when all the barns get together before the auction to cater in food for all involved with the show.
I also participated in the show with my horse Aero. I considered it a huge accomplishment when I was able to pull off a Top Five in the hunt amateur owner to ride. I had a great ride in the 19-39, but I didn't place. Still, it was overall a good show for my own experience.
If you would like more information on Fall Fest, please visit their website by clicking the following link:
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