Lex in the Gambler’s Choice Eliminations ~ 2026 Draft Horse Classic

7:00 AM Saturday, September 19, 2026 The eliminations determine the horses that qualify to be in the class after scoring the most points for completing various obstacles during a set time. The ones with the highest points during eliminations compete again against the clock in the Gambler’s Choice class to rack up points to determine the winner and placings. This video is only Lex, although there are other horses in the warm up area with him. The next video will be all of the horses who participated in the eliminations. My goal for coming that early was  to video Annette with her 5 year old Percheron, Lex, because this was his first time in Gambler’s and she was just doing it for schooling and fun, not expecting to earn a qualifying time. Lex worked very well for her in the warm-up area trotting off and cantering on cue. He also did a great back up and nice Gee and Haw overs. But I think he got a little worried when it was his turn and he was in the arena all by himself so he lost concentration and called for his mom, Bella, a couple of times. He may even have heard her yelling for him back at the barn.  He did a great turn in the obstacle in front of the announcer stand, and again at the side where he had to walk in and then back to turn and walk out the way he came in. These are the moves that Annette had practiced and Lex’s turns are very good considering he is big and still figuring out how to place his hooves. So, it was mission accomplished for Annette and I think once Lex gets the hang of this class, he will love to do the Gambler‘s Choice class the way Annette does!