As the Congress Queen, getting off the exit for 17th Avenue will always give me butterflies. I was so excited to see the progress being made to the Expo 2050 project! I was visiting to attend the All-American Youth Show which was founded in 1968, just 1 year after the start of the All-American Quarter Horse Congress. 1968 was also the year of the first Congress Queen. They sold over 1,000 stalls for almost 700 youths to get to experience the years of memories built into showing in the Coliseum, Cooper, and Denny Hales Arenas. This show is not restricted to Quarter Horses or other stock breeds, I saw Miniature horses, Mules, Gypsy Vanners. They have a unique program where if you raise enough money in sponsorships then you are returned your entries and stall costs. This is a fantastic opportunity for youth to work on communication, teamwork, and fundraising skills! As a non-profit this show is run entirely by volunteers. I got to work with volunteers from Stockhands, a riding program for therapeutic and veteran riders. They were so sweet and excited to see youth be successful. Since there were 4 rings going on at 1 time, I was grateful to have OMI Queen, Leah and NOQHA Queen, Addison there to help me present awards. It was so special to be back on the grounds and return to the Congress before we know it!
Next Stop: The Premier
Much Love, Madison
