In homeopathic medicine, that phrase — “from the top down, from the inside out” — discusses the importance of treatment. It sort of applies to Fair Hill International, too. When a rider of the stature of Phillip Dutton calls it a “true championship course,” we take that compliment to heart, let me tell you.
I’ve got a quick hour to write about the event this morning while I await the whirlwind of cross-country day, so here’s a few pictures and thoughts.
The CCI*** jury at the jog — from the top down.
The folks who lead FHI: Executive Director Carla Geiersback, the emergency medical staff on site, Roger the electrician, Sandy in the office, the stabling folks, the cross country course folks led by John Ryan and decorator Janine McClain, the dressage contingent led by the incredible Bodgie Read, the vet box and all the cross-county people, the fence judges and stewards (many are technical delegates, USEA/USEF judges, doctors, nurses, professionals), the beautiful VIP tent folks coordinated by Barbara Bateman.
The stadium jumping people whose work lasts until late Saturday night led by Fran Loftus; the Main Gate folks led by Denise and her guys; Kathy Troutman who does the Kid’s Corner, decorating the entire grounds from one end of Gallaher Road to the other and her wonderful ever smiling crew; JoAnn and the mounted outriders; Frank always tractor driving for everyone everywhere during the event and when we all are home or working, he’s out there in August, September and November on the tractor fixing and preparing the gallop track and grounds.
I haven’t even mentioned one-tenth of the volunteer family that puts on this show. Every year I learn more about how it happens to get together, and it continuously amazes me. I do so little in comparison to all the others here! So from the top to the bottom, from the invisible inside-the-box organization to the beautiful horses and competition you see as a spectator, it’s all got the hand of a volunteer touching it. Thank one today!
Tom Coulter, Carla Geiersback on the bike, Rusty Lowe.
Volunteer coordinator Joan is getting married NEXT WEEK. That’s her wedding coordinator sitting with her!
Frank, where else? On a tractor.
Crossing people, scribes, bit checkers, warmup folks.
