I began my journey to Raleigh on day 238 of my reign as the 2014 All American Quarter Horse Congress Queen. I stayed in East Sparta, Ohio last night after the trail ride and began my drive to Raleigh this morning. It was a ten hour drive to Raleigh, so I was definitely ready to rest when I arrived! However, about halfway through my drive to Raleigh my broodmare went into labor and when I arrived at my hotel, I waited for the delivery! Thankfully due to technology I was able to watch the delivery of a buckskin colt at 1 AM on my IPhone!
Upon arriving at the Little Futurity I was welcomed with open arms. The weather was uncharacteristically hot for North Carolina with temperatures hitting 100+ degrees each day. The beautiful queen outfits are not ideal for this weather, especially since the Little Futurity is shown outside. Despite the hot weather I had a fabulous time presenting awards throughout the day at one of our industries most prestigious futurities. Everyone enjoyed watching some of the best horses in the country. The Little Family took such great care of the judges and me with a tent and fan to keep us as cool as possible and tons of water and Gatorade to stay hydrated. Between classes I visited with the great vendors at the show including many that sponsor the Congress Queen Contest such as All That Show Clothing, Kathy’s Custom Tails, Kendall’s, Show Diva Designs, and others. It is always a special treat to visit with all of the fabulous vendors.
On Monday and Tuesday evening, I also had the honor of presenting awards to several Little Futurity special event slot classes, which included both open and non-pro classes. Also, on Tuesday afternoon was the inaugural Heart of Stone Western Pleasure Class. This was a fun class and exhibitors were not required to wear show clothes. Due to the weather many took advantage of this option. The best part was that all money raised went to the Heart of Stone Foundation to help families that have a child with heart defects. It was really touching to be at this event and congratulations to winner Deanna Green! Throughout my time in Raleigh, I spent time with Madison Pope, who asked me where my castle is located! J For everyone else who is wondering, my castle is at the All American Quarter Horse Congress! On Tuesday evening, the horse MoonDawg was auctioned off to raise more funds for the Heart of Stone Foundation. Thank you to everyone involved, the Little Futurity presented a check for $17,000 to the Heart of Stone Foundation!!
I only had plans to stay in Raleigh for the Little Futurity, but I was excited to be asked to stay for an extended period to participate in the Tarheel Triple Classic. It was great to be able to stay to present to the small fry and leadline exhibitors and meet many other exhibitors. I was also thrilled to be involved with the crowning of the 2015 North Carolina Quarter Horse Queen, Miss Brianna Tamulewicz! Congratulations, Bree. I had a great time getting to know Bree throughout my week in Raleigh.
This post is not complete without sending a heartfelt thank you to Larry, Gale, Kathryn, and Josh Little for their over the top hospitality! I am forever grateful for their friendship. Also, thank you to the entire Tarheel show staff for having me at their show. Finally, thank you to Susan Ostrander and Bree and Allie Tamulewicz for making me feel at home during my time in Raleigh!
