I’d planned to take a break when the IHSA reining competition started this afternoon, but as I watched the first few competitors ride I found myself back at the rail, camera in hand. It was just too irresistible. So I shot the rest of the class with another photographer, exchanging ideas and camera settings as we experimented. The spectators whooped and whistled for their riders as they galloped, spun and slid on their new mounts, adding to the excitement and energy in the arena.

Just as entertaining were the English riders, mostly girls, of course, who remained to watch their fellow equestrians perform. When I asked if they’d met any cute cowboys at the show, they laughed and said, “They’re in a different barn! They segregated us. I guess they didn’t want us getting distracted.” Hmm. And I’m guessing these organizers have been around for a few years!