By DOUG GRAVES
Ohio Correspondent LEBANON, Ohio — Southwestern Ohio is a hotbed for horses of all kinds, as well as no better annual gathering of horsemen than The Great Tack Exchange.
This event, now in its 23rd consecutive year, offers equine enthusiasts a chance to swap tack, buy and sell horses, trade secrets and simply reunite with one another. At the grounds of Lebanon Raceway, all breeds of horses are in the limelight.
“We draw from a five-state region and we feel we’re right at home here in Lebanon,” said show coordinator Catherine Estill. “We have horse people of all kinds each year and for many, it’s a time to get re-acquainted and share ideas with one another.”
Tack of all kind is either traded or sold at this five-hour event. Even horses are often bought or sold, and all breeds can be found. Kelly Engle-Thompson, founder of the new Appaloosa Horse Club out of Wilmington, Ohio, was on hand to promote her breed.
“The Appaloosa is well represented in the area, but you don’t see them publicized a lot,” Thompson said, adding the Appaloosa has a rich heritage.
With Lebanon Raceway nearby, the Standardbred is perhaps the most popular breed in the area, but others such as Arabians, Morgans and even the Appaloosa caught some attention. “There are 200 Appaloosas in Clinton County alone,” Thompson said, “and there are 12 on our farm alone.”
But highlighting breeds is second to the popularity of tack at this gathering. Bridles, saddles, bits, hats, scarves, reins, boots and chaps were aplenty, and the huge barn at the fairgrounds was filled with the smell of saddle soap and leather.
“This is one event on my calendar that I never miss,” said Lucas Tanner of Batesville, Ind.
“It’s the best way to not only replace that worn tack with some new gear, but it’s a good way to meet new friends and exchange a few ideas. It’s well worth the drive, believe me.”
This farm news was published in the April 16, 2008 issue of the Farm World, serving Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee. |
