Over 30 years ago I moved to Whatcom County, Washington. Not long after, I was invited to go watch the International Plowing Match in Lynden. The event is still vivid in my memory. There were draft horses of many breeds (and a few mules) and generations of handlers who walked behind their horses, holding plows that turned the soil over in straight, deep, furrows.
It’s a slow-moving event, but the beautiful spring day, the powerful, hard-working horses, and the human characters all combined to create living art. I was overcome with emotion, wiping tears from my face as I watched. I loved the power and thrust of the horses, the suspender-wearing old-timers, the fancy harnesses, and the sense of connection to history. But mostly, I loved the heart and try of the horses and the partnership they displayed with their handlers.
Now I’ll admit it—I’m a real softy where horse events are concerned. I’ve always loved a horse show of any level: 4-H shows, schooling shows, national championships, the Olympics—they’re all good as far as I’m concerned. Anywhere horses and people are gathered is an opportunity to find magic. Little kids who get their first ribbon, a perfect line of flying changes in a dressage test, or the fastest time in a barrel race—all are moments that expose not only hard work paying off, but the overwhelming kindness of horses.
I’ve watched horses and their people in events all over the world. And I’ve played the game too, from exercising racehorses to riding jumpers and event horses and showing dressage and working equitation. It’s been a great ride! Being part of any kind of equine event—whether as a spectator or a competitor—is good clean fun and a little bit of heaven on earth.
Enjoy our Equine Events issue this month. Our feature article, written by Theresa Rice, highlights the Oregon Draft Horse Breeders Association shows held at the Yamhill Valley Heritage Center. And the International Plowing Match in Lynden will be held on May 16.
Kim Roe grew up riding on the family ranch and competed in Western rail classes, trail horse, reining, working cow, and hunter/jumper. She trained her first horse for money at 12 years old, starting a pony for a neighbor.
Kim has been a professional dressage instructor in Washington state for over 30 years, training hundreds of horses and students through the levels. In recent years Kim has become involved in Working Equitation and is a small ‘r’ Working Equitation judge with WE United.
Kim is the editor of the Northwest Horse Source Magazine, and also a writer, photographer, and poet. She owns and manages Blue Gate Farm in Deming, Washington where she continues to be passionate about helping horses and riders in many disciplines.