Jumping for the blue: Inside the ring of the Hunter Jumper horse shows at the N.C. State Fairgrounds

In the hunter jumper world, the common phrase “going for the gold” transforms to “jumping for the blue,” as in the coveted first place ribbon. Every year farms from around the state bring their best horses and riders to compete in the Hunter Jumper shows and derby at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Hunter jumping is a style of English horseback riding where both horse and rider are judged on accuracy, form, consistency and demeanor while performing a series of jump courses. “So much of horseback riding is mental and both parties affect the other, meaning the horse affects the rider…

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Weekend Update: Sept. 1-3

The Equestrian Exchange Consignment Sale will run Friday, Sept. 1, through Sunday, Sept. 3, with free admission throughout the weekend. The event is North Carolina’s largest equine-item consignment sale. It gives attendees the opportunity to buy and sell tack, saddles, show clothing, barn supplies, horse wear and other riding gear. Event hours Friday through Sunday are from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The sale is in the Holshouser Building. Other events: The Kennel Club Dog Shows are Friday through Monday in the Graham Building. The American Kennel Club registered dogs will compete each day for points that will lead to…

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