For the third year in a row, the National Equestrian Centre in Lake St Louis, MO, was home for a week to some of the best Friesian horses in the world. Judges for the International Friesian Show Horse Association (IFSHA) World and Grand National Championship Horse Show were Lois Heyerdahl for dressage and sport horse in-hand divisions while the carriage pleasure driving horses were pinned by Audrey Bostwick. Three USEF Friesian judges—Gary Mullen, Todd Trushel and Dr. Walter de la Brosse—officiated the balance of halter and performance classes with many a unanimous decision between them. Patty Littmann was the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Technical Delegate for the show, and Shirley Nowak the USEF Steward.

The Show management team of Nancy Nathanson (secretary) and Gareth A. Selwood (manager) were at the helm for the fourth time in as many years and have already been asked back again for 2010.

More members volunteered than ever before, helping bring a great family atmosphere to all of the weeks events, which could not have happened without them and the many sponsors, patrons and vendors.

Cecile Hetzel-Dunn gave a very informative clinic to a large class of 21 judges and applicants on Thursday during the show with the help of USEF's Director of Education Chuck Walker and IFSHA members and horses.

The good cheer and festivities did not end in the show arena, as parties every night have become the norm and a tradition. Friesian Focus began the week with champagne and treats served by Joan Fernandez and Lance Bennet followed on Friday night by Siren Song Stable and a great party hosted by the inimitable Carson Kressley, Kim Deola and Anneke Buggenworth. Halloween night brought a new patron of the show out into the spotlight when Black Dragon Farms threw a bash for everyone where Jo and Pat served Meade and Ale to their guests. On Sunday morning, USEF hosted a coffee and doughnuts gathering for the revelers and early morning risers, which were appreciated by all.

Friesian horses traveled all across our great country from Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, Texas, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, New Jersey and Virginia to perform and win.

Ringmaster Bruce Bennett, Paddock Marshall Gail Bricco and Master of Ceremonies Doug Shane kept everything moving smoothly from the first horse through the in-gate to the final victory pass on Sunday afternoon.

Although the show was down four horses from 2008, the horses that did enter, participated in more events than in previous years, which helped with bigger classes and deeper competition.

Among the many registries that supported the show with sponsorships, banners and vendor booths
were The German Friesian Registry (FPZV), who visited the show and inspected several pure and part-bred Friesians for inclusion and ranking within their studbook.

The new Board of Directors and officers are now charged with deciding on a venue for the 2010 show and will be announcing their decision within a few months. Wherever it may be, you can be sure it will be all about the Friesian horse and the fun they bring to all our lives.