Oregon High Desert Classics

I’m Joking M and Tricia Booker in the 2’6” Baby Green Hunters during the Oregon High Desert Classic I.

Painted Horse LLC made its debut during the Oregon High Desert Classic Horse Shows in July in Bend, Oregon.

And, fittingly, the pinto Dutch Warmblood I’m Joking M was the featured performer as he made his show ring debut in the hunters. After a successful career in the jumpers in Europe, “Joker” was imported in the fall of 2020. He initially showed here in the jumpers, but it was quickly realized that with his superb style, lovely movement and beautiful conformation, he had hunter potential.

During the two weeks of the OHDC, Joker performed better and better. He moved up from the 2’6” Baby Green section to the 2’9” USHJA Hunters and earned excellent ribbons, eventually earning top-three ribbons including the win under saddle during Week 2.

Joker still has some kinks to work out as he transitions from the jumpers to the hunters, but he’s well on his way to becoming a superstar. He’ll remain in the 2’9” sections through the rest of 2021 and will begin his 3’ Green year in 2022, when he can have an entire year to showcase his talents in the USHJA Green Hunter Incentive Program.