World Champion - Irresistible Dream
Owner/Driver - Elizabeth James-Lipscomb
Trainers - Lynda and Andy Freseth of Hollow Haven Farms, Oconomowoc, WI
When you think Asheville, craft beer, local food and great restaurants, amazingly beautiful hikes, a first rate art scene, awesome water sports and of course the Biltmore Estate immediately come to mind. We’ve come to expect the constancy of great offerings and a sense of “overwhelmed” (but only in the most positive way) can best articulate a typical stay in our little mountain town.
Asheville’s appeal certainly doesn’t end with the obvious – and this weekend, one of the most unique and special events is scheduled at the WNC Agricultural Center – the Lions Club Benefit Horse Show. From May 13 – 16, the arena will be graced with some of the most gifted American Saddlebred three- and five-gaited horses and riders that compete today.
Horses and riders from across the country come to Asheville to vie for top honors AND to enjoy all that Western North Carolina has to offer. It’s a complete win-win-win situation: the competitors get to ride against some of the country’s best, and while not in the heat of the show ring, they can be found enjoying all the things we “locals” take for granted. And for a moment in time, we get to experience what their years of practice and competition have honed into one of the most gracious and athletic events around.
The overall beauty, power and excitement of these horse/rider teams can’t help but impress – but knowing what criteria the judges are using to crown the victor can be a bit mysterious. I’m happy to join you in the stands and “pull the curtain back” to help you understand if you’re interested in learning a bit more. Just give me a shout – 828.301.3022 or send an email to gretchen@townandmountain.com.
The WNC Agricultural Center (across from the Asheville Regional Airport) is located at 1301 Fanning Bridge Road, Fletcher, NC. Show times are Wednesday/Thursday from 6:00 – 10:00, Friday/Saturday 10:00 am – 4:00, 6:00 – 10:00. Proceeds from the show will benefit the Asheville Lions Club Eye Clinic. The show is free and open to the public.
Come on out!