Unlike others, Mr. Mora took the time to teach me basic techniques and showmanship skills. He pointed out the proper ways of dressing and catching the judge’s attention as soon as entering the ring. Finding out that there was money involved when it came to winning first through third place, I knew paying attention was the key to success. Learning new skills was not only going to require physical and intense labor, but mental focus if I wanted to be at the top with in the winner’s circle.
Anxiety, terror, and not knowing what to expect were the feelings I had racing through my body, on my first show. It wasn’t long before I quickly surpassed the competition. Coming out of the show ring with my heart beating as fast as a drum, my parents and family were proud of my first win. Holding a buckle and a blue ribbon for the first time was the best feeling ever. All my hard work had paid off. It encouraged me to keep working hard and improve my skills of showing.
Winning at the first show gave me the confidence to compete at a higher level. Showing became fierce as I traveled across the state. Competition was no longer a piece of cake. It was determination. Working