Tuesday, October 2, 2002

Devon - The Day After
Hoover Davis, Another Devon Legend

Monday morning brings out the Devon staff of workers and volunteers, and another Devon legend, Hoover Davis, the 73-year-old veteran who has been managing the massive cleanup of hundreds of horses after Devon shows since 1950. The first to greet the HorsesDaily camper, which is located each year on the grounds behind the Gold Arena, and the last one to bid farewell til next year, we have our final photo session of the 2002 Devon season.

Almost as soon as the last ribbon is placed after the final class, Sunday night, the historic Devon showgrounds begins the rapid transformation from a colorful showplace, to a dormant square block in the neighboring Phildaelphia suburb.

The barns clear out, with only the Canadians and those with long horse hauls spending the night. The tireless ring crew, who entertained the record crowds of 13,500 on Saturday night, with their "Drag in Drag", picks up the arenas, and breaks down the judges' stands.The thousands of mum plants, which brightened the showgrounds go on sale for $1.50 per pot, and an impromptu champagne toast in the committee stand with whatever committee remains is the final Sunday night celebration.

HorsesDaily's star reporter, Astrid Appels is off to the airport, heading back to Belgium, where the University of Brussels 2002 valedictorian heads back to begin her doctoral Ph.D program, and we (Mary and JJ. Hathaway) leave the showgrounds for the first time since Tuesday to go out to a late night dinner.

HorsesDaily "On the Scene" at 2002 Dressage at Devon