2015 Goldmine Circuit Concludes in Spectacular Fashion
By: Brittany Bevis
Equines of various breeds, colors, and coat patterns descended on WestWorld in Scottsdale, Arizona over the weekend for the 5th annual Goldmine Circuit, December 10-13. This all-breed show included four full days of competition under judges Shannon Baker, Mike Baker, and Wilma Holcomb.
This was the fifth year for the event, which was created and has flourished under the expert guidance of Show Manager Carolyn Dobbins. Quarter Horses, Paints, and Appaloosas alike enjoyed a flat fee for the circuit of $295 per horse that covered up to eight classes.
Like in year’s past, the long list of incredible prizes was a huge draw for competitors. Many horse and rider pairs headed home with trailers full of custom saddles, buckles, tack, and spurs. Also, a few lucky competitors received Goldmine’s famous treasure chests, and every exhibitor received a gift upon check-in. Some random gifts contained up to $100 or lottery tickets in true Goldmine fashion!
On Saturday, show-goers were treated to a Happy Hour with live music in conjunction with the Strike It Rich Performance Horse Sale preview. That was followed by the actual sale on Sunday with 45+ horses up for sale through Horse Breakers Auction.
APHA exhibitor Shelley McKay commented on the widespread participation at this year’s event. “There were over 350 stalls sold and 200 Trail goes!” she says.
Some of the largest class sizes had up to four cuts and a finals; one class had 88 entries and another boasted 100+!
In a sweet and unexpected surprise, one competitor received a very special prize during her class at the show. Chris Erskine surprised his new fiancé Mindy Swan with a marriage proposal during her class! Congratulations to the happy couple!
She said yes!
Scroll below to view candid photos from the event courtesy of Carolyn Dobbins and friends.
