The quite adorable Michael Hughes certainly fits in that category. An 11-year-old who is riding as age 10, he made his debut in the Talent Search really count. He told me, in quite a grown-up way, that this was just a first step for him and his horse, Show Time, so they could get their feet wet. Next year will be when they focus on winning.
Missy Clark, who also trains Kimberly, is working with Michael, the son of professional Eamonn Hughes, a native of Ireland, and his wife, Kathy.
Listen: Missy Clark talks about the up-and-coming Michael Hughes
I asked Missy if she had any trepidation about putting a small child over 3-foot, 9-inch fences.
"Four thousand nine hundred and ninety nine out of 5,000 10-year-olds, yes, but for him, no question that I had no qualms. He got second place in a high junior jumper class a couple of weeks ago. He's an up-and-coming force. I think we're going to see a lot of him in the future."
Next week, I'm off to the Washington International, one of my favorite shows. I'll be sending you another postcard the night of October 14 to fill you in, so be sure to check back then.
Who won out west? Read the results of the 2007 USEF Talent Search Finals West.
