The Show Must Go On…Embracing The Blunders And Bloopers

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406 – September/October, 2025

By Kory Kumar

In the world of horse shows–where precision, grace, and control take center stage–mistakes are something to avoid at all costs. Yet, it’s in those unexpected blunders and comical bloopers that the true spirit of the sport shines through. Embracing these moments not only reminds us that perfection isn’t the goal, but also that growth, humor, and connection with our equine partners come from the unpredictable.

A Comedy of Errors

Select Amateur Susan Wilson is someone who definitely knows how to laugh at herself. “I am like a walking blooper waiting to happen. In the grand scheme of life, I am happy to be able to provide some entertainment to others,” she laughs.

A while ago, Susan was in the market for a new horse. She decided that Western Riding is where she wanted to focus her excellence, and she knew of a great horse that her friend, Bonnie Sheren, was selling. His name is Hez Blazin Trouble, also known as “Perfect Parker”. “He had shown and won a lot, and I knew he was truly a lovely animal,” she gushes.

Going into their first show together, Susan felt great. “I was prepped and ready, and I knew I was riding a really great horse,” she sighs. Despite her level of personal preparedness, everything that could go wrong in that first Western Riding class did, in fact, go wrong.

Click here to read the complete article
406 – September/October, 2025