The Minnesota Horse Council recently awarded Bob & Pat Fischer with its Pioneer Award for their lifelong dedication to fostering youth development, supporting the 4-H horse program, advancing the Arabian horse and contributing to the growth of the Minnesota Arabian Horse Association (MAHA), the Steele County Free Fair and within their community.
Bob and Pat joined MAHA in 1957 and remained engaged members, holding a variety of roles, through the mid-1970s. Bob served on the Board of Directors for one term, was a Delegate for the club at the national Convention and assisted Pat who coordinated futurity entries and served as Secretary for more than a decade, which included typing the member newsletter on a mimeograph machine for the club’s 450-plus members.
“In 1966, Bob served as the MAHA show Chairman and Pat served as the Show Secretary. It was then that they learned our show was the largest in the world with more than 750 Arabian horses from all over the country,” said Anita Anderson Grant, former long-term MAHA board member.
“Bob and Pat were instrumental in starting the 4-H project in Steele County and held the first two regional 4-H horse shows, with most classes having 80 entries,” Anita said. “Their interest in teaching and encouraging children and young adults to be successful with their ponies or horses was undeniable.”
“Back in those days, you had to be sponsored by a current MAHA member in order to join the club. They sponsored my membership as a young adult so it seems only fitting that I nominate them for this award,” Anita said.
The Minnesota Horse Council posthumously recognizes those who have had a lasting impact on individuals and the horse industry and who have served as role models for others. Bob and Pat Fischer join former MAHA members Daniel C. Gainey and Lyle Anderson Jr. in being recognized with the award. Their names will be displayed in the Coliseum on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds.
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