Around the Rings: 2026 Summer of Color

August 15, 2026 | Filed under: Around The Ring Galleries,Featured,Show Results & Gallery | Posted by: Delores Kuhlwein

All photos by Savannah Murphy Photography.

The Michigan Paint Horse Club and Tri-State Pinto Horse Association joined forces earlier this month at Muskegon County Fairgrounds in Muskegon, Michigan, to hold a show that was the first combined color show there in over 30 years.

“After many roadblocks, we were able to get it done, though it literally has taken 2 years to get this amazing event to happen. I truly believe we are “better together” and this past weekend proved it true,” explains Amy Franks, President of Michigan State Pinto Breeders & Owners.

The Aug 8-9^th Summer of Color in Muskegon, Michigan, offered APHA, Pinto, and all-breed divisions, as well as fun sweepstakes classes, a youth team tournament, and a free showmanship clinic pre-show with judge Stephanie McConnell. Officials were Stephanie McConnell, Timothy M Abler.

“Thank you to everyone that attended, volunteered, and worked the show! This is an evolution of the Back 2 Basics show that started with 20 horses and this weekend we had 76 horses showing across APHA, Pinto, and all-breed divisions,” says MPHC President Bri Slager. “I can’t recall the last time I saw all our APHA age groups have at least 3 exhibitors, including the 13 & Under rocking a two point class most of the weekend!”