Washington International Horse Show

Ever since I was a wee tot, I have ached to sit in the stands at the Verizon Center and watch the country’s most beautiful mounts and talented riders take to the arena to prove their best at the Washington International Horse Show.  This weekend, I finally got the chance.

First and foremost, as I walked through the streets in Chinatown only to breathe in the scent of hay and horse, I marveled at how incredible a transformation it is that a sports and event center can shift into a equestrian complex for a week.  If you’ve been in the city in the past week, the smell has most likely inundated your space, but to me it was a breath of perfection.

Scott and I were in the arena all Saturday afternoon, taking in the country’s junior riders for the High Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic as well as the Equitation Finals Jumper Phase.  Though I grew up riding and in the show ring, I had to explain most of the language to Scott, who sat as a horse show virgin. Let’s be honest – if he hangs with me, he should get used to it…

The jumps were incredible, and I loved all the tributes to Washington DC – so many of our architectural diamonds on display in the arena.

The riders and their horses were spectacular, and I sat again in awe of the athleticism in the arena. I can’t believe I ever did that – and wonder if I would have the nerves to watch a future kiddo of mine going over 4′ jumps.

The event wraps up today but if you are able to catch the little ones, the small, medium and large ponies and riders are taking center stage and adding a heck of a lot adorable to the Verizon Center.

Can’t make it in? Catch the FREE LIVESTREAM (as I am right now!!) and get your dose of cute for the day…

Here is to hoping the smell of hay and horse lingers in DC for the next few weeks :)

-Al