The Florida Gold Coast event last year welcomed nearly 6,100 AQHA entries from coast to coast, as well as additional National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) and non-AQHA entries for a grand total of 7,563 entries. That number is up from 4,056 total entries in 2014 – noting that remarkable increase of more than 3,500 entries.

In addition to naming 181 world champions over the course of 12 days, APHA held a total of 289 classes and paid out more than $600,000 in cash and prizes.

Through two tough weeks of World Show competition, trainer Shannon Gillespie of Whitesboro, Texas, piloted a bevy of talented horses into the John Justin Arena. While her performances brought cheers and championships for thrilled clients, they also carried her close to the top of a different competition: the chase for the high-point exhibitor award.