Carson Kressley Rides Down Memory Lane at 1991 National Horse Show
Queer Eye icon revisits archives with a rare shot from the Meadowlands horse show long ago
Image: Instagram
A Walk Down Memory Lane
Carson Kressley surprised fans with a charming Flashback Friday post on Instagram, sharing a candid snapshot from the National Horse Show held at Brendan Byrne Arena in The Meadowlands, New Jersey, back in 1991. In the photo, a youthful Carson stands alongside his sister and longtime friend Ashley Russo—smiles wide, hair teased in early ’90s style, and excitement palpable as horses paraded in the background. Kressley’s caption reads: “Flashback Friday – The National Horse Show, Brendan Byrne Arena, The Meadowlands, New Jersey 1991 – my friend @ashleysrusso, me and my sister. Thanks to Candi Covino Aversenti.”
National Horse Show Highlights
The National Horse Show is one of America’s oldest equestrian competitions, dating to 1883. By 1991, organizers had moved the event to the Meadowlands complex, transforming Brendan Byrne Arena into a showcase for hunters, jumpers, and equitation riders. Venues like this brought the pageantry of equestrian sport to a broader audience, attracting celebrities, athletes, and local fans to witness elegant mounts and skilled riders. Kressley’s photo captures that atmosphere—plush carpets, gleaming chrome railings, and the soft thud of hooves on arena footing.
Equestrian Passions Then And Now
Though best known today for his Emmy-winning role as the fashion guru on Bravo’s Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Carson Kressley has never lost his affinity for the horse world. In recent years, he’s returned to the show ring as a judge and advocate. In a May 2023 Instagram post, he recapped his trip to the Rock Creek Horse Show in Maryland, noting: “Rocking the Creek! @rockcreek_horseshow @cmcbridephotos.” In another update, he shared highlights from a One Pass Benefit Class that raised over $18,000 for the Upha Young Professionals fund and the Rock Creek Riding Club, writing, “Had a great drive, saw old friends, judged the One Pass Benefit Class that raised over 18k for @uphayoungpros and @rockcreekridingclub!!! Cheers all around.”
Beyond the ring, Kressley’s journey from Penn State University graduate to television personality—and now equestrian advocate—reflects a career built on diverse passions. Born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, in 1969, he earned a degree in hospitality management before launching into fashion consulting. His keen eye on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy (2003–2007) earned him an Emmy in 2004, and he’s since hosted shows like How to Look Good Naked, appeared on Broadway in Cashmere Mafia, and even starred as a contestant on Dancing with the Stars.
Family, Friends And Flashbacks
The inclusion of his sister and Ashley Russo in the 1991 photo underscores Kressley’s deep ties to family and friends—a theme he frequently revisits on social media. While his professional life has taken him from New York runways to red carpets across the globe, these personal snapshots remind fans of his small-town roots and the moments that shaped him.
“Thanks to Candi Covino Aversenti,” he added in the Instagram caption, tipping his hat to the photographer who preserved this moment. It’s a simple acknowledgment, but one that highlights the collaborative spirit found both onstage and in the barn—whether lining up a perfect outfit or lining up a perfect jump.
As Flashback Fridays go, this one lands squarely at the intersection of nostalgia and passion, offering a glimpse of young Carson dream-chasing amid roaring crowds and majestic steeds.
Fans can look forward to more behind-the-scenes glimpses as Kressley continues balancing TV appearances, styling sessions, and equestrian events—proof that some passions truly last a lifetime.
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