Exhibiting in senior reining at the AQHA World Championship Show for the first time, Lindsay Wadhams of Pueblo, Colorado, works as the head horse show manager for the Colorado State Fair.

Since starting as the show manager three years ago, Lindsay said it is a humbling experience to walk into a show office from an exhibitor perspective.

“I think everybody should have to be on the other side of the fence as far as managing the show because it’s a whole different ball game,” she said. “You see the office staff in a different light.”

Lindsay said she has gained a better understanding for situations that exhibitors may not be aware of.

“You understand those troubles (the show staff) could be having,” she said. “Being on that side of it, it’s easier to not get mad at them and know that there is something causing a possible uproar.”

As an exhibitor herself, Lindsay said she is more approachable at shows she manages.

“Exhibitors know I show right along with them and they’re not afraid to come up and tell me, ‘Hey this isn’t running right, let’s fix it,’ and that’s probably been my greatest skill in being a horse show manager,” she said.

“I’m a people person and I love seeing the exhibitors.” Lindsay continued, “I get to go out and make sure everyone is happy, everything works and is running correctly - that’s what I enjoy.”

Lindsay first qualified for the World Show in senior western riding and senior trail in 1993.

“I would say my youth career was definitely tougher than my amateur career and the open is way tougher!” she said.

Lindsay qualified for the 2007 World Show in senior reining with her 6-year-old chestnut gelding, Smart Little Gynn.

“I’ve had him for two years and just started training about six months ago with Jay Henson of Hugoton, Kansas.