This year Hillsboro FFA members Journey Abbott, McKenzie Lowell and Morgan Kelly showed horses in a variety of classes at the Highland County Fair.
Abbott has been showing horses since she was 6 years old and got her first horse when she was 13. This year with her horses Abboott placed first in hunter and first in hunter hack. She also placed second in barrels and fifth in western pleasure.
After completion of her events, Abbott stated, “There is a lot of hard work and time that goes into preparing, but showing is exciting and fun. Winning is an amazing feeling, but even if I do not come home with a win, I love coming home with a feeling of accomplishment. Horses are amazing, but the participants that put in the effort to make the horses that way are extraordinary.”
Kelly has been showing horses for many years. This year she was the grand champion in horse showmanship and was able to participate in the showman of showman competition. With her horses, Kelly was also the reserve grand champion in high point and placed second in horsemanship. She also serves as the Highland County Horse ambassador.
Lowell has also been showing horses at the Highland County Fair for many years. This year, Lowell did very well with horses. She placed third overall in high point and first in trail class. She even won the extreme trail challenge.
Submitted by Breanne Fender.
