2008 Junior Sportsman of the Year

The single most important attribute in all athletics is sportsmanship... It is how you play the game. It's not enough just to be a winner, it is how you win, how you lose, and how you participate.

In the mist of many setbacks, this rider always had a smile on her face and a good attitude toward all the exhibitors. She is very fair and continually encourages the younger kids. She is well liked by everyone from every phase of the horse show and extremely loyal to her trainer and her friends.

Starting in June of 2008, she was at a horse show with her new horse, when he took a bad step and fractured his hind leg. Needless to say, she was extremely disappointed. However, she still cheered for everyone and was as helpful as possible... Then in August, she was on her way to a show and had an automobile accident, and ended up breaking her neck. All she could say was "Sorry Jen, I can't make it to my class." Everyone showed up at the hospital to support her, and had loads of calls and flowers, along with a long line of visitors.

Because of the way she has handled these situations and her dedicaton to the sport, it has been decided that Margret "Margo" Blasco should receive the Junior Sportmanship Award.