6 minute read
EQUESTRIAN
BLOWING ROCK Charity
HORSE SHOW
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Not Just Another Horse Show
For competitive equestrians in North Carolina and the surrounding states, nothing is more anticipated than the annual two-week long Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show (“BRCHS”). Not only does this beloved horse show represent one of the highest rated Hunter Jumper horse shows in the state, but nestled in the rolling Blue Ridge mountains it also offers a well-timed relief from the scorching summer temperatures and a chance to reconnect with old friends. Each year in late July, competitors rent picturesque mountain-side villas and compete at the highest level, all the while surrounded by best friends, beautiful horses and charming smalltown restaurants and boutiques. For equestrians on the show circuit, I imagine that BRCHS evokes feelings quite similar to attending a favorite summer youth camp.
BRCHS traces its roots back almost 100 years, making it one of the oldest horse shows in the country. Until the recent construction of Tryon
International Equestrian Center, it was one of very few AA rated shows in North Carolina. The show facility does exhibit signs of wear and tear, as one can imagine after so many years of operation and surviving such major events like World War II and the Great Depression, and compared to some other show venues in the
general area, the simple two-ring facility does not stand out. There is something to be said for good old southern charm, however, and coupled with the red, white and blue drapery in the grand stands, the dress-to-impress exhibitor parties, and crowd attractions like the $15,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby and $15,000 Jumper Classics, this show continues to be a mecca for equestrians.
I grew up riding and showing ponies, but like many others packed my boots and helmet away as I succumbed to the excitement of high school and college. Ten years ago I purchased a horse and eventually started to show again. It has been a lifetime since I competed at the top Hunter Jumper levels, but I always had BRCHS as a goal in the back of my mind. Not only would it be something to work towards, but it would also be a way to celebrate a year’s worth of practice. I think that is what makes this horse show so appealing. For the highly competitive show barns, the history surrounding the show and the social draw make it a must stop on their show calendars. The laid back atmosphere and festival-like quality also attracts the local barns that show the lower circuits and many make it their big, yearly top-rated show. Even after so many years the show has kept true to it’s “fun” atmosphere, remaining a favorite for everyone, no matter what color ribbons are won.
Fast forward a few years, and two kids later, and I have yet to show at BRCHS myself. Maybe I won’t get the chance but I do find myself looking forward to my daughter’s leadline debut there possibly as early as next year. I can already see her on the adorable braided pony, smiling at her cheering friends in the iconic box seats, and me walking beside her hiding a smile under an oversized sun hat.
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Q&A
with DJ Claya Jade
When did you start DJing – and what or who were your early influences? Q Do you have a routine you do every time before a
This September - 3 years. Tchaikovsky Hendrix Janet Jackson Travis Scott U2. Banks Grimes & Hana Chris Brown.
My father for sure; he would make up songs and play the guitar and sing every night (100% off key)! Finally he got some lessons and figured it out. It was cool because he never stopped trying.
My mother. She taught me about versatility; pushed me to become a dancer, learn to play multiple instruments and read music at a young age.
What are currently your main challenges as a DJ?
Finding the time to master production, not just music but all aspects of performance; stage, sound, light, etc. show?
A
Promote, Prepare, Practice, Repeat :)
QDo you think that the DJ world is a man’s world? In your opinion is it harder for a girl to become a DJ?
AGuy/Girl; doesn’t make a difference. Learning to DJ is not easy, and I can honestly say that real “open format” is never like “riding a bike”.
Like any craft it requires dedication and commitment natural ear/rhythm, hours and hours of practice and preparation. As a DJ, the business aspect is just as critical as the artistry. If you can’t network, push your brand, hustle, negotiate, etc ... there’s zero career potential.
Whether your male or female, you’ve gotta put in work, or no one will notice you or take you seriously.
Open format is all about the crowd and any conditions A Just want to throw really big shows with DJs. Female set by venue management. Song selection is based on DJs would be especially cool. Other then that; Ibiza, the vibe and response from my audience. Learning to Dubai capture them, read them and keep them engaged is an art in itself. Q What has been your most memorable performance? Organization and preparation are key, but no set criteria. A GFW event at Label Charlotte, opened for Kayzo.
It’s all about knowing where the music is, what it is; what sounds good with it, and when to play what, (while always thinking 3 tracks ahead).
QLast song played on your iPod?
AHANA - Avalanche
Claya Jade Resident DJ with Spent Entertainment Booking Contact: Danny Bartsch at Spent Entertainment dandanbreak@gmail.com (803) 727-0209
DJ | CORPORATE | WEDDINGS AND MORE contact 980.858.JADE or djclayajade@gmail.com
