After such a wonderful experience at Level 1 Championships East, I couldn’t wait to experience the event on the West Coast. I opted to drive to a bit further airport and was able to land a nonstop flight to Las Vegas. It was my first time visiting Vegas, and I was immediately blown away by the slot machines positioned right as soon as you get off the airplane. We arrived late that evening (at least in Eastern time), so it was a brief stroll around the hotel and barns, a quick bite at one of the restaurants, and then it was off to bed.
The next day was one of the final days of the Pinnacle Circuit. This show is put on by the Arizona Quarter Horse Association and immediately precedes the Level 1. I had the best time helping Penny King and Anica Reddick hand out circuit awards and get everything set up and ready for the Level 1. That evening, my mom and I had tickets to see The Wizard of Oz at the Sphere. I had been looking forward to it for a while, and it did not disappoint. The wind, the seats shaking, and even apples falling from the ceiling made it such an immersive experience. We also spent time walking around some of the surrounding hotels. It’s crazy to see entire cities practically built inside of them! Since the trip fell over Mother’s Day weekend, it made the experience even more special getting to spend that time together with my mom.
The first day of Level 1 West went off without a hitch, starting with halter, showmanship, and gaming events. I always find the barrels and poles so fun to watch since it’s not something I get to see very often! I also got the chance to hang out with Idaho QHA Queen Chloe Hansen between classes while she stayed busy serving as the walker for the showmanship setup.
The first day also brought a talent show, which is something I’ve never seen at a horse show! Everyone really showed out, from singing and dancing to gymnastics; it was incredible seeing how many talents everyone had outside the arena. One of the highlights was watching Cavannah Hansen, sister to Idaho Queen Chloe Hansen, absolutely wow the crowd with her performance and earn a perfect 10 from every judge. Her voice was absolutely stunning, and I can’t wait to see where she goes next.
The days that followed were a similar mix of preparing awards and running back and forth between pens. It was exciting to cheer on many exhibitors I remember meeting at the Arizona Sun Circuit. It’s always such a joy to watch dreams come true. One of my favorite parts about this show is how everything is within arm’s reach. With the barns and arenas completely air-conditioned, being able to walk to the arena just steps from your hotel room, and 11 restaurants located right within the hotel, it truly felt like an all-inclusive experience. I really didn’t get too many looks when wearing my Berry fit outfits through the casino; it must just be a typical look for Vegas!
Overall, L1 West was such an unforgettable experience. Getting to work alongside so many amazing people and watching incredible competitors made it all worthwhile. Every show I go to, I learn new things and get to meet so many new people. It’s hard to believe that I’m already halfway through my reign as the Congress Queen. I can’t wait to see what the rest of this journey has in store!
Ashlyn Gonzalves
2025 All American Quarter Horse Congress Queen
