Dogs having their day: photo provided by Tryon Riding & Hunt Club.
Tryon’s signature animals are sleek, expensive powerhouses: the best of their kind. With its more than century-long equestrian history and new, $1.5 million international jumping and events arena, it’s always been a horse town, post to wire.
Except when the day goes to the dogs, as it will on October 11, when the Tryon Riding & Hunt Club in Columbus hosts the 82nd Annual “Any and All Dog Show” at Harmon Field.
Most of the rest of the year, the TRHC is involved in high-stakes, big-purse steeplechase races. But on Sunday, it’s come as you are. Pure bloodlines and official dog “handlers” aren’t necessary, and in fact may be a handicap. Instead, judges are looking for charisma and for owner-pet camaraderie. Pups that wear costumes, do tricks, or fit into a variety of fun categories, including “So Ugly It’s Cute,” “Best Tail Wag,” “Best Adopted Dog,” and “Dog Who Would Rather Be at Home,” are all welcome.
The event benefits the Foothills Humane Society, and anyone coming from out of town can get a discount at local pet-friendly hotels (call 877-411-FIDO for that info).
82nd Annual “Any and All Dog Show, October 11. On-site registration begins at 1:30pm. 828.863.0480, www.tryonridingandhuntingclub.org.
