Holiday Tournament of Champions

Saturday’s Tournament of Champions was yet another example of the incredible teamwork that is St. Andrews. Can we put on a horse show? Oh yeah! The lesson barn was decorated with garland, Christmas trees, lights, snowflakes, and reindeer. A smiling inflatable nutcracker welcomed everyone at the gate and reindeer and poinsettias decorated the tents and stabling areas. The horses were for the most part body clipped and beautifully turned out. Our friends from Virginia Intermont brought six of horses to swell the ranks of the upper level horses. Thanks Eddie!

The day started with Opening Ceremonies including the National Anthem sung by Bill McConnell and members from the choir and opening remarks from IHSA founder Bob Cacchione. Mike Kryszak served as the announcer for the day and the usual cast of characters worked the paddock,, the barn and the draw table. Classes ran all day with short breaks to drag the ring. Chartwells was kept busy at the concession stand as everyone tried to stay warm. At the end of the day Delaware Valley came out on top with St. Andrews a close second.

Congratulations to all the competitors and thank you to the St. Andrews community for putting on a fabulous horse show.

Schooling on Friday

SAPC 8th placed team

Santa's helper in the paddock

Coach Duda and Jodi Brinn

Reserve Champions with their coach Ashley Duda & program director Peggy McElveen. Also in the picture organizer Gwen (left end) and IHSA founder Bob Cacchione (far right)