The 2002 Tennessee Horse Fair was held March 22-23 at the Middle Tennessee State University Livestock Center. Overall, the fair was a great success again this year, and proved to be an extraordinary opportunity for SSHBEA exhibitors to promote their breed of choice.

Once again, Freda Bullard provided her unrivaled expertise in coordinating the folks to do just that.

Although it’s considered springtime in the south, Friday morning’s cold and windy weather didn’t phase the unstoppable team in delivering a lavishly adorned SSHBEA Exhibitor’s Booth that left the competition out in the cold. The booth generated a large amount of interest from all fair exhibitors, including many visitors eager to learn about the Spotted Saddle Horse, which continues to gain in popularity all over the world.

Saturday morning the parade of breeds provided the Spotted Saddle Horse exhibitors the perfect opportunity to back up their boasting by showing off their grand saddle gaits, canters, and obstacle course talents. Strikingly adorned riders on immaculately groomed mounts performed throughout the weekend to the crowd’s pleasure.

Krista Smith and 2001 Sport Horse World Champion, Silk And Sassy, brought early American excitement to the show ring as they entered at a full gallop dressed in authentic Indian attire. Krista not only depicted a squaw Indian in appearance with full costume and war paint, but also delighted the crowd as she acted the part, hollering as she commanded Silk and Sassy through the obstacle course.

Kelly Summers continued the early American theme in her own style as a traditional Southern Bell, riding 2001 World Grand Champion Trail Pleasure mount, Avengers Lil Tramp sidesaddle. Her presentation captivated the audience as they reminisced of days gone by.

The popular breed was also well represented by exhibitors Jordan Shields, winner of the SSHBEA 2001 Promotional 4-H Award, on Hy-Tone Dazzle, Leslie Lamb on Hy-Tone Destiny, and Morgan Shields on 2001 Reserve Model Mare, Dream Maker’s Rose. Following their performance, Krista and Jordan united together on the platform, as is tradition of all SSHBEA exhibitors.

Kudos to Freda Bullard for her efforts to continue promoting the Spotted Saddle Horse by coordinating the exhibitor’s booth, as well as, the skilled exhibitors whose showmanship is unmatched. Assisting Freda with the obstacle course and booth construction were Janice Higgins, Anne Lamb, Deanna Lamb, Beth Mohon, John Mohan, Samantha Mohan, Kim Shields, Jason Smith, Ronnie Summers, and Chris Turner.

The SSHBEA inside booth was set up and manned by the SSHBEA Youth Council. Once again Liz Gazzaway, chairman of the Youth Council had the SSHBEA youth group ready, able, and willing. Thank you Liz and the Youth Council members.

The 2002 TN Horse Fair weekend was the perfect kick-off for 2002 SSHBEA Promotional activities. This promises to be an exciting year filled with increased popularity for our favorite breed.