Catching the judges' attention is important and success breeds success. Bay and Tami's strong finishes in the Youth Division led to coverage in quarter horse publications which in turn draws notice to the team. Sharp image and known quality, of course, have to be justified by strong and consistent performance. Tami manages to maintain a demanding travel schedule and regular training while aiming for medical school. In a sport where each step of a horse's gait is scrutinized, the line between English and Western is clear.
Quarter horses are equally unique.
An American breed, the horses have evolved from the do-everything originals to specialized animals. Horses usually begin competing on the circuit when they are three or four years old. Bay, at 17, is old but, as Tami says, it is difficult to find a horse with the ability to handle the varied challenges of competition. Originally a barrel racer, Bay has made the adjustment to hunter with a diligent spirit and an eagerness to please. I appreciate how individual they are.