Several months ago I saw that there was a large and prestigious horse show in Devon.  I put it in a brain cell waiting for it to come around and take Cat to.  We had a great time and got to see some amazing horses and riders on Memorial Day.  If you don’t know, the Devon Horse Show started in 1896 “as a one-day show. Now, years later, it has become the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the United States. It is internationally recognized, USEF-A rated, and one of the most exciting events to happen in our area. Top riders from all over the world will compete at Devon.”

In addition to the show, there was a “country fair.”  Cat and I walked around and saw amazing (expensive) tack: boots, saddles, etc.  Oddly, there were also a number of jewelry vendors; that’s what I go to a horse show for!  People must buy jewelry there though, so whatever floats their boat.  There were also tables for horse rescues, farm sign makers, and food vendors.  It really was an amazing show.  Cat and I never have been to a show at that level.  Cat was particularly thrilled to be able to watch instead of compete.  She had a chance to sit back, relax, and enjoy the competitors.

Even a novice who doesn’t really know what to look for could tell that some of these riders are among the elite in the country.  I was particularly amazed by Scott Stewart.  It turns out that he faired will in Devon in prior years and was the man to watch.  And a quick google search showed this man is indeed a top competitor:

Of course, the riders are only half of the equation and Cat loved to see these well-bred horses.  They were beautiful.  We all have our favorites and Cat particularly likes the ones with black legs and brown bodies from an aesthetic standpoint.  For me, it was hard to tell them apart aside from color and their size since all of the horses were extremely fit.

I don’t think this will be the last time that we go to the Devon Horse Show, but next time we’ll bring sunscreen and sunglasses though!