Around the Rings – 2023 APHA Midwest Invitational

APHA Midwest Invitational, September 16-17, 2023, at Iowa Equestrian Center in Cedar Rapids, just finished up a weekend of  APHA, NSBA and All-Breed competition.

The 4-Judge Paint O Rama, with this year’s judges Mark Russell, Daren Wright, Jeff Buck, and Rebecca Halvorson, is the result of collaboration.  “Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri and Wisconsin Paint Horse Clubs combined to put on this show,” explains Beth Foster-Hattan.

The joining of forces produced more than just another show, however.

“The 4 clubs came up with concept of the Invitational Classes (we offered 7), where the exhibitor had to be a member of one of the 4 regional clubs and show in at least one of those 4 clubs shows to be able to compete,” explains Megan Seehafer, who headed up the Midwest Invitational classes and handled all the awards for the weekend.

“The goal was that our exhibitors were able to go and support each clubs shows earlier in the year and then were able to compete for a buckle (to win) and prizes to 5th place in those invitational classes.”

The show offered many exciting additions for all exhibitors, too, Megan explains.  “For all our exhibitors, we had several random draws for giveaway items throughout the show. Saturday after the show, we had a “Beverage” pong competition (organized by Sabrina Seehafer) with pizza provided by the 4 regional clubs. The top 2 teams of the “beverage” pong were awarded insulated cups. We had a great time and we always like being able to award cool prizes to everyone.”

View and download Midwest Invitational Class Results by Judge: Midwest Invitational Results by Judge

Score sheets can be found here: Equiscribe – Scores

Thank you to Beth Foster-Hattan for an amazing gallery of photos!