This time of year is awards season in the entertainment industry with the grand finale being the Oscars at the end of the month. The “Oscars” of the equine inustry, however, have aleady been announced and two horse events held at the Western N.C. Agricultural Center took top honors.
The 2010 Blue Ridge Classic won favorite Saddlebred Show and the 2010 Piedmont Classic won favorite Paso Fino Show. The “Favorite USEF Breeds Competition” winners were selected by the USEF members of the United States Equestrian Foundation.
“This facility is blessed with a stunning natural backdrop, but being recognized by the national governing body of equine sport really speaks volumes about the hard work of the horse show leadership, committees and staff,” said Matt Buchanan, WNC Agricultural Center manager.
The Western N.C. Agricultural Center plays host to a number of horse and livestock events, conferences and trade shows each year. Pictured is a Lippizanner stallion event in McGough Arena.
Members were allowed to provide feedback with their votes. The Blue Ridge Classic Saddlebred Show was commended for its location and for making exhibitors feel welcome. The Paso Fino Piedmont Classic Show was praised for its helpful show staff and drawing competitors from a number of states, adding a “mini-nationals” feel to the show.
The Western N.C. Agricultural Center is home to numerous horse and livestock events, large-scale conferences and trade shows, but is perhaps best known as the home of the N.C. Mountain State Fair, held annually in early September. The 2011 Mountain State Fair runs Sept. 9-18.