Kirby Horton is a 14 year old girl from Blind River, Ontario. She is currently attending W.C Eaket secondary school in Gr. 9. Although it is her first year in high school, it is not her first making a mark in the show ring.

For the past 2 years Kirby and Little Mr. Lincoln have been top contenders not only at Area3 and Ontario shows but also shows through out the United States. Kirby started riding at a young age, and is currently showing a 9 year old chestnut gelding known to the show ring as Little Mr. Lincoln and known to Kirby and others as Lincoln.

Kirby shows Lincoln in many different events, although her favourites include: Hunter Under Saddle and Western pleasure. Her favourite show is Summerama. Kirby trains with Lisa Nicholson and hopes to someday compete at the All American Quarter Horse Congress.

Last year Kirby took home champion 13 and under Hunter under saddle, res. Champion showmanship 13 and under, res. Novice youth western pleasure and res.champion all around 13 and under from the Area3 banquet. This year Kirby settled for Champion youth geldings 3 and over and res.champion aged geldings.

Aside from outstanding awards in the show ring Kirby also received the Ontario principle leadership award in grade 8 along with the French-history award. Kirby has been playing the piano for five years and in the future hopes to either become a horse trainer or an accountant.

Kirby’s most embarrassing moment with a horse happened at the UP Classic in Michigan. Her Horsemanship pattern called for two 360’s in a row and the second with increased speed. So Kirby put on her bigger spurs to help get the speed needed in the second 360. Lincoln was not used to such a spur so Kirby completed the 360’s as required although they were in the air! As we all know, there are many ups and downs in showing and that’s what keeps it interesting! Kirby says that what she likes best about showing is riding and meeting people.

Good luck this year Kirby, and we’ll be sure to watch you when we see the sharp spurs come out!