A new layout greeted us at Sunset Park, Las Vegas. It was a good layout, as we had plenty of room and stabling for the horses. Also the route to the tourney field was open with no close quarter contact necessary.
This tourney consisted of six competitors, and was six horses strong. Rounding out this lineup were Rik Fox, a fine Herald indeed. Our tournament judging was called by John Spalding and Company. These men objectively watched each course before entering their scores. Add to this an "on the ball" sound man and you have a show/tourney that was thoroughly enjoyed by performers and patrons alike.
As we had just three Knights in this group, we decided to present both choreographed and tournament jousting as well as the skill-at-arms. This worked out well.
Karina Benish and Kevin Cousineau are doing quite well, this being only their second show with us, as are Karina's two young Shire stallions, Conner and Ronan. Steve Choquette flew in from Orlando and began in good form, however, after aggravating an old injury, he marshaled on the ground. Steve Adams jousted in good form! Solid hitting is Steve's modus operande. He won some and lost some, as did I. Brenda rode well under trying conditions (and if you don't think being on the only mare among four stallions is a trying circumstance, then you should attempt it some time).
Two good groups of people, one group in the seats, the other on the field, are my final thoughts regarding this event.
James Zoppe
Founder and Director
American Jousting Alliance