I have realized that this year I may not be up to the physical challenge that is BreyerFest. At least, as I currently understand how it is going to be run.
Let me explain.
Breyer has drawn up a chart to help collectors figure out which models come with or are accessible with each ticket tier. I know which pieces I want and which ticket I plan to purchase.
Chart by Breyer and found on the BreyerFest blog.
How I actually GET those models is what has made me stop and think - I am not sure that I will be up to the challenge of picking up my models, at least as I understand how the process works.
This year, in an effort to ensure that BreyerFest participants stand in lines less, Breyer has changed how we get our models. Now, VIP, All-Access, and General Admission ticket holders get their models at the same place, the Model Handout Tent.
Breyer posted this map on the BreyerFest blog with the location of the Model Handout Tent circled in red:
It's the Model Handout Tent that is making me rethink my Breyer plans. Why?
First, regardless of how models are distributed, Kentucky is hot and humid in July. Since Kentucky Horse Park is huge, you do a lot of walking in that heat and humidity. I learned years ago where to find shade and water when needed, and I feel comfortable meeting that challenge.
But the Model Handout Tent changes that. Memories of the early BreyerFest pick-up lines that stretched on and on seemingly forever come to mind. With one location and thousands of collectors clamoring to receive their models, I cannot imagine that there will not be significant lines. And I am no longer physically able to stand a long time in lines. Especially not in the heat and humidity that blast Kentucky in the summer.
The next challenge, after receiving my models, would be hauling the Celebration Horse and Special Run models back to my car. I come by myself and will somehow have to carry those boxes the long hike back to my car by myself. (Some folks bring wagons but I am not interested in dragging one through the crowds all day.)
It is a looooong walk all the way from the Model Handout Tent (red circle) to the parking lot indicated by the red arrow. The walk to and from the parking lot has been a challenge for me the past ten years; adding carrying several big bags of models will, in all likelihood, be something that I simply cannot do.
I was 33 when I attended my first BreyerFest. Since then, I've had my hip and both knees replaced, three other knee surgeries, three ankle surgeries, and two spinal fusions. I'm older, I'm slower, and I just don't have the mobility, energy, and strength to hike around KHP like I used to.
Me in 2010 recovering from my first knee replacement with our dog, Zeus, keeping me company.
And just to be clear, I am NOT criticizing Breyer. I am pointing out that, for me personally, the challenges of attending BreyerFest may simply be too much for me.
BreyerFest tickets go on sale today but I'm holding off on buying mine - I want to see if Breyer posts more information on the Model Handout Tent before I do.
I appreciate that there is still a way that an older hobbyist with some physical challenges can still participate in a much loved event.
