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A Judge Steeped in Heritage
Overseeing the competition was Jared Hanson, a thirdgeneration horseman raised on his family’s Percheron breeding farm in Chatfield, MN. Hanson brought a keen eye and deep respect for the animals, ensuring each class was judged with fairness and an understanding of both form and function.
Honoring a Familiar Face A moment of heartfelt remembrance was shared as the Draft Horse Committee paid tribute to Sandy Stokesbary, who passed away in January. Sandy was a beloved member of the show’s extended family, assisting her husband, Arlyn, in transporting guests to the arena and horse barns, and offering a warm smile while selling merchandise. Her dedication and presence were missed deeply, but her memory was celebrated with grace.
“Sandy was the kind of person who always made this event feel like home,” a committee member shared. “She gave her time with no expectation— just love for the show and the people.”
Local Drivers Shine in Farm Team Events While the big hitches may take center stage, the heart of the weekend was found in the farm team competitions, where skill, patience, and heritage came together in every class. Several local drivers added rich layers of hometown pride to the weekend’s events.
Travis Spartz, a familiar face in the arena, has been holding a set of lines since he was a kid, learning the ropes from his grandfather, Vincent Crowley. That early mentorship shows in Travis’s calm confidence and connection with his horses— something you can’t teach, only earn through time and trust.
Also drawing admiration was Jim Suprenant, 84 years young, who proudly showed a team of Shires. For Jim, horses aren’t just part of life—they are life. He is most content in the barns, still harnessing, training, and cherishing the quiet moments that only a life with horses can bring. His dedication is a living reminder of the deep roots draft horses hold in rural life.
Competition Heats Up Throughout the weekend, a full slate of classes kept the arena buzzing with activity. In the Classic Series Six-Horse Hitch, Ames Percherons stole the show with back-to-back first-place finishes on both Friday and Saturday. Schreiber Percherons consistently placed in the top three, as did crowd favorites Roby’s Belgians, Pittman Percherons, and others.
From Four-Horse Hitches to the elegant Ladies Cart, from the thrilling Obstacle Course to the always-entertaining Unicorn Hitch, every class was met with cheers, whistles, and camera flashes.
For fans of farmwork and tradition, the Farm Team, Feed Team, and Draft Team competitions brought a practical and rugged charm to the weekend. Teams competed in events that echoed the everyday work of the draft horse—pulling wagons, navigating tight turns, and showing off steady teamwork.
Trophies, ribbons, and top honors were presented throughout the weekend, including the coveted farm team trophy sponsored by the Lowell Haack family, which added an extra level of excitement to Saturday and Sunday’s competitions. Tiffany Kelley claimed this coveted trophy. For Tiffany, horses aren’t just a passion - they’re part of her identity having the privilege of driving horses with her grandpa.
Young drivers also took the reins during Sunday’s Junior Driver Cart and Junior Team classes. It was a proud moment for Joe and Missy Biren watching their son, William, place second in the Jr. Driver Team competition.It’s nice to see the next generation confidently guiding their teams across the arena.
A Community Staple With over 50 classes, dozens of competitors, and hundreds of spectators, the Murray County Draft Horse Show has grown into one of the region’s premier equine events. But for many, it remains about more than the ribbons and trophies— it’s about family, friendships, and the shared love for these magnificent animals.
As the sun set on Sunday and the last cart rolled out of the arena, it was clear that the tradition is in good hands. The 19th show may be over—but the countdown to year 20 has already begun.
