WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – It’s the final day of the third-largest Morgan Horse Show in West Springfield.
The four-day-long Massachusetts Morgan Horse Show brought 400 participants from New England, New York, and the mid-Atlantic area to the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield. Some of the exhibitors were as young as two years old and others were in their 70’s.
“I think it started ever since I was little. I just fell in love with horses when I was really tiny and loved them ever since,” expressed Participant Carly Conpanik.
The theme for this year’s horse show is Las Vegas. Last year, the theme was ‘Around the World’ where participants were able to represent different countries.
The Show Organizer Molly O’Brien says that horse shows are unique and that they are a safe space for many people, “When you are competing with a horse, when you are on a horse, you bond with that horse, you have a partner when you compete, but also on the ground too, and it really helps a lot of kids get through those tough years. They have a place to go where it is a safe space and everyone speaks the same horsey language.
O’Brien says while these events are competitive, it is also a fun experience for everyone as it comes with different themes.
Tim Roesink, the judge of the horse show told 22News that these events are essential for the community.
“It’s an honor to judge these horses because people put a lot of work into them and spend a lot of time on them. One of the great parts of the horse industry is that we can compete and it teaches children how to win.. how to lose and all those things,” said Roesink.
Organizers also say it teaches horse riders about sportsmanship.
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