The stallion class is always a great spectacle.  They always look in "spring coat" and the interactions of these magnificent creatures with other horses, their handlers, the crowd and the judge all makes for great entertainment.  Of course for the competitors (people) it is a very important opportunity to show their breeding boys to would be customers for the coming season.  I am sure that winning is not everything, as this will be a matter of personal taste and preference of the judge(s) and all of the stallions presented today were very different and commendable in their own right.

The handlers did a great job and were perfectly in control at all times.  The skill of the handler is being recognised at these important competitions, and many horses at the 2003 AWHA Gala Weekend were being presented by professionals.  With so much h at stake - this is a great move.  It shows that Australians are  getting to the European way where the production and sale of performance and riding horses is a profession and we will increasingly expect professional standards to apply to all aspects of a sport which has up until quite recently been just a hobby for most.

I mention this aspect, as the breeders who are doing it correctly and in the European mould, find it difficult to compete when ONLY price is the consideration.  Professional studs go to great lengths to ensure that they sell an excellent product and their customers are very pleased with their purchase.  Happy customers come back and they tell their friends.  Most people recognise that 'word of mouth' business is the bet business.

Hobbyist or the one off vendor has no such obligation for future dealings and as will have relatively few repercussions if the product is not what he said it was.  This is well worth considering when looking to buy a horse that will be your partner for many years to come.

The Australian breed societies such as the AWHA are there to support both the breeder and the owner and are therefore an excellent conduit for meeting the requirements of both.  Membership is well worthwhile - even if you are just an enthusiastic spectator.

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