The 2009 Paso Fino Show Season was one that witnessed much innovation. Pioneering steps were taken in the areas of horse introduction, presentation, judgment, and in the overall layout of the shows.
A show that is supposed to be one of the most anticipated of the year was expected, by most enthusiasts to show the same avant-garde spirit. However, it was apparent that the show officials deemed it wiser to maintain a more traditional approach.
For better or worse, this formerly awaited show was the 2009 PFHA Grand Nationals.
Being behind the scenes of such a large-scale show makes one understand why a safer approach would be preferred; especially in times of unstable economical climates.
In terms of judging the competitors, the form most Paso Fino aficionados are used to stayed that same. And as always, some of the audience members with the judges’ decision, while others expressed their disagreement.
As per usual, the ratio of quality to quantity was relatively even. Some sought-after horses, however did not make an appearance. Classic Fino Stallions Champion in the 2009 Spectrum, Joyero III, was not seen competing at the Grand Nationals. Previous Grand National Champion, Aprendiz de Colores, is included in the list of no-shows. Even so, other stallions, such a Bribon de San Isidro and Imponente de la Libertad were displayed and did so magnificently. Still, Is it possible the economy is to blame for those that did not appear?
Nevertheless, to say that nothing was new in this show would be unfair. A new trend is seen when it comes the riders in the ring. Many newcomers, as opposed to Paso Fino Veterans, took some of the major blue ribbons. Christian Figueroa, coming from the U.S. Figueroa dynasty, took a surprise win with stallion, Halago de San Isidro, against former Champion, Jorge Suarez with Soberbio del Portico under the reigns.
In the Performance Mares Championship, newcomer Nelson del Valle, with Encantadora CC, took the Grand Championship ribbon home.
Another win by an up-and-comer was taken by Juan Pablo Perez in the Performance Stallions Championship with stallion, Zacarias Dos Estirpe.
Jimmy Espino- not being a novice, or a household name- had a very successful overall season- Including the 3 year-old Classic Fino fillies classs with Sensacion de la Roca. The 4 year-old Classic Fino Fillies classes, as well as the Classic Fino Mares Championship were won with Aurora HH.
Ricky Mendoza, a former bull rider, has found great recognition in the Paso Fino circuit by winning the Trainer of the Year award.
One of the young riders was not seen much during the 2009 Nationals, however, he did take several key wins throughout the the show season. Ricardo Abreu was that rider. Jose Ochoa, another up-and-comer, took the blue ribbon the 4-year-old Performance Fillies Class.
In the Amateur Owner classes, Michael Gascon- son of veteran rider, Jaime Gascon- took many blue ribbons home. Among those wins, The Amateur Owner 4-year-old Performance and Pleasure fillies were taken by Gascon.
With a few surprises, another Paso Fino competition season has come and gone. Congratulations to all the Participants of the 2009 PFHA Grand Nationals.
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