04.29.11 - Pardon the Interruption

Celebrities are what so many organizations and events trot out to try to drum up coverage. I work in the newspaper industry, I know. Politicians, names that were D-list before you were born, etc. Celebrity does nothing for me, I didn't have teen stars on my wall as a kid, I don't understand screaming and fainting in the presence of 3D persons. Everyone is human. Those that I respect are those that (seem) to have kept hold of that.

I will admit I know nothing about the specifics of reining, but I will say I was impressed by Lyle Lovett's commitment to the sport. His horse Smart and Shiney was ridden by Italian Marco Ricotta at the World Equestrian Games. Lovett played the closing ceremonies of the WEG to a very appreciative crowd of volunteers, riders, and journalists!

Six months later he was back with his horse at the Kentucky Horse Park riding himself in the 1st Ariat Kentucky Reining Cup. I admit I know nothing of the specifics of reining. But I can tell you I was impressed by his...seat. Go ahead and laugh. He rides quite well. I have seen many who flop in the saddle at best. Lovett is sequre in the tack. He really rides. His leg is secure, his body is with the motion, that is something you can't fake. No matter he finished last. He was up against the members of the gold medal team from WEG. But he was there, he was open to all interviews and he was as uncelebrity as he could be. I listened to the two albums I had on the iPod on my drive home.

(click image for slide show)

 

Rolex Kentucky CCI****