The MFTHBA Show and Celebration kicks off Sunday, September 3rd at the National Showgrounds in Ava, Missouri. Affectionately called “The Celebration” by the tried and true attendees that make their way to the Ozark Hills each Fall to watch the best-of-the-best foxtrotting horses compete for prizes and accolades. The Celebration is a lot like a homecoming for many. You won’t have to look far to find someone that has attended every show held at the Ava grounds. And, with little more search, you’ll run across a few that were at the West Plains ballfields, where the original show was held. The event, original called the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Jubilee Celebration, made it’s debut in 1959. There were 13 performance classes and 1 model for a total of 14 classes filled with the pioneers of the breed and their neighbors. And with that, the Celebration got it’s start. The first Senior World Grand Champion title was awarded in 1960 to “Sandy”, owned and ridden by L.O. Sweet of Springfield, MO.
The Celebration that begins this Sunday looks much different than the original one day event. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to compete in 116 classes over 7 days. Versatility events round out an abundant schedule of model and performance classes that offers something for everyone that appreciates a great horse and touch competition.
Come and join in the Celebration of an amazing horse! One time and you’re guaranteed to be back.
The MFTHBA Marketing Committee has compiled a full list of the weeks EVENTS.
