Everyone knows that at a horse show we have the exhibitors and the show moms.  Show moms sit in the stands wringing their hands as their children exhibit. Often, these same moms assist in preparation before classes.  But what about show dads?

A show dad is a very unique individual.  He is part of the showing family, until he reaches the arena or stalls at the show.  Then, he becomes a member of the silent minority.  He is not supposed to assist in preparation.  He is a wiser man not to suggest that something be done at a specific time and he certainly does not need to make any comment regarding the speed of the preparations.  He goes to the arena to watch his child exhibit his or her horse, but he may not understand the difference between a posting trot and a jog. He knows the saddles look different to him, but is not sure if the class is either Western or English.  He has so much pride in the family member that their run looks flawless to him. But he may find out from someone more knowledgeable that it really wasn’t such a spectacular go after all.

So what is the purpose of a show dad?  He serves multiple functions like as helping other people with non-horse show problems, running errands, and providing the resources necessary to carry-out this hobby that his child adores.  He understands quickly in the world of horse showing that he is really just along for the ride, but paying for the trip.

We couldn’t do this without him and his unending support and so to show dad’s everywhere we thank you.