Sunday may be the day that ESPN wants to show the $100,000 Budweiser/Upperville Jumper Classic but Saturday is the best day at the Upperville Colt & Horse Show. Saturday is local, family day. Saturday is the day for the young and old to show off, have fun and be part of the team. Saturday is the day to cheer on friends beside the ring, to show you care by polishing boots and butts.

"Saturday is family day." says Punkin Lee of Journeymen, "It's really great to see the professional riders that you've watched ride all week lead their children around in lead line."

Lead line is in the morning. A youngsters first chance to feel what it is like to be a participant in a horse show. This year there were probably twice as many entries as last year. It could be the better weather, Upperville's own baby boom or any other reason. Whatever, it is the cutest class to watch. It isn't quite clear who is showing off more, the parent, the child or the pony. After lead line, comes Walk, Trot. The child's chance to shine in front of their parents instead of beside them. The riders may not always be in complete control (but honestly, when you are on a pony, any feeling of control is an illusion) as evidenced when a few begin to excitedly canter during the trot portion of the class. Frequently, the spectators and the announcer try to help by calmly and loudly calling out "Whoa!" What horse show would be complete without the never-ending class. This year, in the main ring, was Short Stirrup, all 82 entries, each going two rounds.

After all the kids only classes comes the family class. This seems to embody what Upperville is all about. Whether it is a family of eight or only husband and wife riding beside each other, it is a special time. Saturday also feels like a popularity contest. As the riders go around the ring different sections of spectators begin to cheer. They cheer the people they know, spectacular performances and amazing saves. Next is a salute to the fact that this is the oldest horse show in the country, The Piedmont Invitational or Silver Fox class. This is for people who showed at Upperville in days of yore. In the spirit, many riders wear their old clothes which are now called vintage. This year the judge was also a rider from past years and local friend, Jimmy Hatcher.

Finally, comes the pomp. Ladies' Side-Saddle at Upperville is probably one of the most beautiful horse show moments. Everyone riding under the magnificent oaks, on (this year) a most beautiful day, in their finest is a pretty picture, indeed. Yes, Saturday is the best day at Upperville, for the show and the community.