06/01/2026
What a debut for Margaux and Orange in the Short Stirrup Division at the GOHJA Show! 🎉🐴
They earned:
🏆 Grand Champion – Short Stirrup Equitation
🏆 Reserve Champion – Short Stirrup Hunter Division
But the day didn’t start the way we hoped.
During her training round, Orange refused the first fence and Margaux received her very first excusal from the ring. The jump had standing water in front of it, creating a reflection that looked very spooky to the ponies. The muddy footing only made it more intimidating. In fact, several ponies in the division refused the same fence.
That’s when Margaux’s dad, Matt, stepped in and came to the rescue with a rake and helped level the footing and remove the standing water. Once the jump looked safer, the ponies began jumping it without issue.
What I’m most proud of isn’t the ribbons.
It’s that Margaux didn’t let that first setback define her day. She got back on, stayed determined, worked through the problem with Orange, and went on to complete her courses successfully.
Today was a reminder that champions aren’t defined by how they start. They’re defined by how they respond when things don’t go according to plan.
Congratulations Margaux and Orange! Your hard work, perseverance, and partnership paid off in a big way. 💙💛❤️
