July 11, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Cultural, Community or Seasonal
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There’s excitement in the air, the sound of horses neighing and the musty smell of hay as I make my way through the horse barns at the Smithers Fall Fair grounds. Nope it is not quite fair time yet, but the place is buzzing with activity because of the annual 3 in 1 Horse Show. On the weekend of July 6-8 the Bulkley Valley was home to a few more horse lovers, enthusiasts and experts than usual, as participants gathered here from across Northern BC and Alberta for one of the biggest horse shows in the north. The atmosphere was fun filled yet competitive, with many riders vying for major points and prizes. As I stood by the show ring one of the riding coaches nearby offered an explanation of the events. With a great variety of shows including halter, hunter, trail, barrel racing and pole bending and events in both English and Western style there is something for everyone. Also, as I found out, there are always plenty of friendly ring side observers willing to explain the penalties and points to observers who are casually interested or to those hoping to enter their own prized Palomino.