“I am truly the grandmother of the show ring. And to you my grandchildren, my parting word is:Be a good sport.
Everyone is in a competition of some kind in life,
So my wish for you is that you may be humble when you win and brave when you lose.
May God bless you all.”
“I am truly the grandmother of the show ring. And to you my grandchildren, my parting word is: Be a good sport.
Everyone is in a competition of some kind in life, So my wish for you is that you may be humble when you win and brave when you lose. May God bless you all.”
In 1929 just before the Great Depression Kansas City lumber baron R.A. Long created a self sustaining working farm known as Longview Farm, it was regarded as the worlds most beautiful and modern farm, unlike any other farm of that period, just 20 miles from Kansas City. It was built as a country retreat for his family, and a training facility for his daughter Loula’s show horses.
The farm would ultimately be gifted to Loula, and she would go on to become an internationally recognized champion horse show woman.
Loula broke gender barriers competing in competitions conventionally entered only by men. She also rejected traditional side saddle and rode astride like her male peers. Loula was a permanent fixture of the American Royal and well known around Kansas City as an avid animal lover and generous philanthropist. She embodied the old adage “to whom much is given, much is expected”.
The spirit of Loula Long Combs lives on at Longview Horse Park every time a competitor enters the show ring whether it be driving, saddle seat, dressage, show jumping, or out on the cross country field. For we are all her grandchildren.
Our sincere gratitude to the Kansas City Museum/Union Station Archives, Kansas City MO for the images of Loula Long Combs.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TODAY
Longview Horse Park is home to many horse shows throughout the year, including two USEA recognized eventing horse trials, and the Area IV Championship. Our events bring thousands of competitors and spectators to the Kansas City area every year. The local economic impact is significant and growing.
100% of your donations go directly to fund our mission of park preservation and improvement. We maintain 501(c)(3) status, all contributions are tax deductible.
LONGVIEW HORSE PARK ASSOCIATION PROUDLY SUPPORTS OUR LOCAL EQUESTRIAN GROUPS
Our sincere gratitude to everyone contributing artwork to the Longview Horse Park Association’s site.
Including Anne Peters, Amy Martin, Kathy Wismer, Merrick Studios, and the Kansas City Museum.