2017 Sun Circuit Making the Most of Its March Move

By: Kristin Spinning

Sun Circuit has had an overwhelmingly positive response to their new dates. The 2017 Sun Circuit gets underway Saturday, March 4th and runs through Sunday, March 12th. The move frees up more of West World’s new facilities for the show since there is no longer a conflict with the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction or the PGA golf tournament. Show management is making the most of its new-found space and is able to offer a very diverse slate of classes while maintaining an exhibitor friendly schedule. From Cutting to Jumping to Trail, there is something for everyone.

For the first time, Sun Circuit will be using two new indoor arenas in the North Hall of the Equestrian Center in addition to the Markel Insurance Arena (Equidome). Another bonus is that the timing is convenient for exhibitors and vendors who will be at the Silver Dollar Circuit. That Silver Dollar show wraps up just prior, and its an easy drive from Vegas to Scottsdale.

This year’s show has even more entertainment for exhibitors: the 64^th annual Parada Del Sol Pro Rodeo will be presenting four performances during the show. This is one of Scottsdale’s most popular events, with sold out performances. Sun Circuit exhibitors may purchase tickets online at SunCircuit.com.

Judges love coming to Sun Circuit as much as exhibitors. The 2017 line up includes Jeff Allen, Mike Edwards, Pierre Brierre, Jonathan Meilleur, Dean Bogart, Lynda Danielson, Becky Schooler, Daren Wright, Derek Hanscome, Leanne Harrison Demars, Jennifer Leckey, Mark Sheridan, Matt Howell, Jimmy Stickler, Doug Allen, Bill Enk, Peter Morgan, Fielding Rogers, and Andrea Simons.

A new addition to the 2017 schedule is an NSBA day with Western Pleasure and Hunter Under Saddle Futurities in The Equine Chronicle Arena. In Western Pleasure, there will be a 3-Year-Old Open with $1,000 added, a 3 and 4-Year-Old  $1,000 Novice Horse Open with  $7,500 added money, a $1,000 added Three-Year-Old Non Pro, and finally a 3 and 4-Year-Old Limited Non Pro with $5,000 added.

Hunter Under Saddle horses have a shot at some nice cash as well with four futurities.  The 3 and 4-Year-Old Open Hunter Under Saddle will have $1,500 added while the 3 and 4-Year-Old Non Pros ride for $500 added. Three and over $2,500 Novice Horse Open will have  $3,500 added, while the Three and Over Limited Non Pro division has $1,000 added.

Hunters have a shot at some cash and prizes as well. The Hunter Derby offers $2,000 in added money. In the Non Pro Hunter Derby sponsored by Greenway Saddlery, the Champion will receive a BEVAL Solaris Saddle, Leathers, Girth and Irons. Reserve Champion receives a Bobby’s Bridle and third takes home a Tokalt competition pad.

Ranch Riding has a strong following at Sun Circuit 2017 will offer classes in all divisions. There is also a full slate of Versatility Ranch Horse Classes that will be pointed by the AzVRHA/WSVRHA  along with an All-Breed division running concurrently.

Besides added money classes, Sun Circuit is famous for its great awards along with fun and extravagant give aways. In past years, exhibitors have gone home with saddles, TVs, Rod Patrick boots, jackets, artwork, jewelry, hats and electronics. This year will be no exception. A treasure trove of goodies is accumulating, and the Prize Patrol is planning more fun activities. Sami’s fine jewelry will also be awarding Sun Circuit rings in an array of classes.

March is known as Arizona’s best weather month. It’s one of the most popular times for visitors to Arizona. AZQHA CEO and Sun Circuit Producer Doug Huls says, “We’re encouraging everyone to book hotels, RV’s, and RV spaces early because it’s considered the best time of year in Scottsdale.” Great weather, world class facilities and loads of points; Sun Circuit has everything to keep it on everyone’s “Must Show” list. The Arena Schedule Hotel and Reservation information is online at SunCircuit.com.