HITS!

Hi all!  While we are enjoying a lovely Holiday break (our horses too!) we thought we’d put a little bug in your ear.  While it seems so far away, the beginning of our horse show season is actually fast approaching.  More so, the entry deadlines are fast approaching and nobody wants those pesky late fees or the possibility of being on a wait list! 

To start our 2014 FCF Show Season, we’re heading south to 2 wonderful venues from mid-February to mid-March.  Our first stop will be at the HITS Arizona Winter Circuit, located in Tucson.  Our plan will be to compete in the Sahuaro Classic Feb 19-23 and the Arizona Winter Festival Feb 26- March 2, better known as weeks 4 and 5 of the Circuit.  Now this is what we’re hoping to be a good, confidence-building start to our year.  The Circuit in Arizona, while being a quality venue with good footing, large arenas, top-notch course designers and great prizes, is perhaps a little more relaxed than the Thermal circuit.  Smaller class counts, shorter days and quieter atmosphere make for a less intense experience and a great way to get back into the swing of competition without being overwhelmed.  Also, while being a little further, the show is in general less expensive.  Cheaper stalls, quality lodging at lesser prices and reduced class prices make for an easier time on the wallet.  We love this show as a start to the year, as our horses and riders have always returned confident, sharper and ready win, all while having a blast.

After our little warm-up in Arizona, we will be heading for the big leagues at the HITS Thermal Desert Circuit.  We intend on loading up and heading directly over to Thermal from AZ for DC VI March 4-9 and DCII March 11-16.  This is truly a fantastic show, located just outside of the gorgeous Palm Springs, it has everything one could want in quality competition.  The best footing, the best course designers, the best jumps, large arenas, it’s a horsey playland.  The quality of the show and location is reflected in the prices, such has more expensive stalls and lodging option.  Although, to mediate costs, a favorite thing for people to do is band together and rent a house in the area.  Also, being so close to Palm Springs, it’s a great destination spot for the whole family.  The weeks we are planning on offer many prize money classes for all divisions and the spectating can’t be beat.  A $1,000,000 Grand Prix and a $50,000 East Meets West Hunter Challenge make this a special show and super fun to watch!  This is a great place to challenge oneself and compete in one of the best venues with the best competition the west coast has to offer.  We’ve been traveling to Thermal for many years now and our well-prepared horses and riders always excel and have one of the most enjoyable showing experiences of the year.

Both Horse Shows are suitable and recommended for all our riders and horses at FCF.  Each venue offers classes for all level of rider in the hunter, jumper, pony or equitation arenas.  The trips can be catered to your schedule as well.  You can only do 1 week?  No problem.  We will arrange shipping for anywhere, anytime.  Have to fly back and forth?  Totally cool.  FCF Professionals will be on hand to care for and manage your equine partner.  There are many options and we encourage all of our customers to consider these incredible horse shows.  Not only is it fun to travel, but competing in new arenas with new course designers against new competition can only lend to improvement.  We will leave schedules and entry forms for all 4 weeks in the main client tack room for everyone to look over.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to find your nearest FCF Pro!  Looking for more info on the shows or lodging?  Check out the HITS website: http://hitsshows.com/

Looking forward to a fantastic and exciting 2014 Show Season!!!

FCF Pro Chelsea and Hugo in Thermal last year