For the first time in many years the Arabian East Coast Championships were not held in Quentin, PA; the competition was held at the Virginia Horse Center in Lexington, VA, July 29-August 2. The move resulted in double the number of entries and classes offered. Familiar faces welcomed exhibitors to the new location and all it had to offer. Two indoor arenas gave main ring and sport horse entries plenty of warm-up area out of the weather. For the working western and over fences horses, there were individual arenas and warm-up areas as well.

It is never a hardship to jump in the stadium arena at the Virginia Horse Center. There were over 24 horses entered in the over fences divisions and this division returned after being excluded the last year in Quentin due to a lack of entries. Youth classes had a great turn out and much to the delight of the 17 and under exhibitors lucky enough to win a championship, trophies too big for some of them to carry were awarded. All of the rings during both the Eastern Arabian and East Coast classes were captured on film and on video.

East Coast Championships is special in that this competition is older than any of the Regional Shows held for Arabians and Half-Arabian horses. This show has a long history, for prior to its previous location in Quentin, it was held in Devon, PA, for many years. Many stars of the Arabian breed have made history by earning the title of East Coast Champion.

Entries varied from trainers with their large string of many horses to the two horse owners enjoying what this show had to offer.

"The East Coast staff did a great job for all of their exhibitors," said Martha Murdock. "The classes were competitive—many with over 18 entries. For family activities, there was much to do in the area and youth were a focal point at this event. The schedule was well thought out and gave everyone a time to relax. One comment from a trainer—'This show has been like stepping back in time to why we all started showing horses in the first place.'"