sun surf 34

Fun at the Sun and Surf


There’s no escaping fun at the Sun and Surf Circuit in Del Mar, California.
AQHA Judge Leslie Lange welcomes a halter exhibitor into the show ring. (Journal photo)

AQHA Judge Leslie Lange welcomes a halter exhibitor into the show ring. (Journal photo)

There are a few facts of life about showing in May at the Del Mar Horse Park in Del Mar, California, and they all helped to make the 2009 Sun and Surf Circuit a success.

For one, there’s the “Marine Layer.” It’s a low-lying cloud cover that rolls in off the ocean and camps out all morning, and the afternoon sun usually burns it off. It makes for pleasantly cool mornings to show in. The temperature is kind of in between wanting to wear a jacket and not wanting to wear one.

The beach is really, really close, and it’s gorgeous. When you’re done with showing and barn chores, take a late afternoon drive into Del Mar and past the legendary race track to the ocean – it’s barely 10 minutes away. There’s even a designated dog beach where pups can romp in the sand and water off leash.

The food is fabulous. Stop anyone at the show and ask where to go eat and each person has a favorite place. I heard more than one recommendation for Jake’s for seafood and for Milton’s Deli for lunch. I hit Milton’s, and it was fabulous – you have to try the fresh-baked cinnamon raisin bread. Oh, yeah, and stop at the Quick Fix just outside the show grounds for an espresso or a latte.

Friendly horse show pranks abound. This time someone hung AQHA Pro Horsemen Jim and Deanna Searles’ grooming bag high in a tree…as high as a very tall man standing on a very tall horse’s back.

With five AQHA shows offered, the competition was tops, as was the hospitality. Those Southern Californians have smiles to match the sunny weather.

Christine Hamilton
Editor
American Quarter Horse Journal

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Check out the Journal’s slide show - click on the photos for captions:

Related Tips:

* Classic Show, New Format
* Learning Takes the Lead
* Southern Hospitality
* Photos on the Fly
* Halter Helpers

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