AHT Abroad Director of Creative & Operational Development
Mieke Opsteyn
Show Operations & Digital Support
Meaghan Estes
Sales Coordinator & Accounts Receivable
Deb Trebesch
Social Media/Sales Assistant
Hillary Hoffman
Brooke Leininger
Sue O’Neill
dba Arabian Horse Times, P.O. Box 70, Jordan, Minnesota 55352. Periodical postage paid at Jordan, Minnesota 55352 and at additional entry offices. Single copies in U.S. and Canada $22.50. Subscription in U.S. $85 per year, $145 two years, $205 three years. Canada $135 one year, $255 two years, $345 three years, U.S. funds. Foreign Subscriptions:$195 one year, $325 two years, $385 three years, payable in advance, U.S. funds. Sorry, no refunds on subscription orders. For subscription and change of address, please send old address as printed on last label. Please allow four to six weeks for your first subscription to be shipped.
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COMMENTS from the publisher
REACHING OUT FOR ARABIANS IT’S EASY!
Regular readers of this column will know that I routinely advocate for more promotion for the Arabian horse, because in my opinion we can never do enough of it. And with National Arabian Horse Day coming on February 19, this is an ideal time to kick off some serious outreach for 2025.
I know, we are all very busy these days; sometimes we feel lucky just to be with our horses, let alone organize open houses or other social activities to attract new owners. But recently, I had a lightbulb moment. The best publicity can be the easiest! We all say, “Introduce Arabian horses to people, and they will sell themselves.” Okay, let’s do that.
The Arabian Horse Times can help. It’s simple. Who doesn’t take pictures on their phone? When you are having a meaningful moment with your horse (fun, emotional, rewarding—anything), take a snapshot. A trail ride? A show success? A new foal? Your best friend getting to know your horse? Do it. And videos? From comical to touching to impressive, record it.
Here’s where the Times comes in. Send us your photo or video. Below is a QR code that will take you to a form which you can fill out with your name, the horse’s name and that of anyone else in the image, the date, and an explanation of what is happening. Add the photo or video and upload to AHT. Over the coming year, we’ll share photos or videos across AHT’s social media accounts, which attract hundreds to thousands of hits every day.
Be part of our exciting new effort to let everyone see how great it is to have a relationship with an Arabian horse. We invite you to join in!
Scan the code above to submit your photos and videos.
OVERALL PERFORMANCE POINTS
(Includes Performance Halter | does not include Equitation/Horsemanship, Sport Horse or Dressage) PB SIRE
3411 A res Heir 443 Nspiring Jazz 1727 Cedar Ridge Arabians 2231 SF Aftershoc 311 WCF Olivia 1539 Marty & Tim Shea 1688 Sundance Kid V305 LD Mustang Sally1382 Prestige Farms 1682 HA Toskcan Sun297 JB Dos Jalapenas 1185 J Frank or Sara Chisholm 1367 TA Mozart 294 Minding Ps And Qs1116 Lawrence Jerome
529 Ingrid Bentzen 624 Colby Powell 296 Katie Russell 331 Rainie Kuchynka 517 Carol Roberts 518 Jill Mitchell 243 Sophie Yih 272 Reese Tierney 474 Katie & Joe Russell395 Jessica Bein 228 Ingrid Bentzen 250 Maria Letellier 441 Ashlye Daniel 357 Gordon Potts 226 Lindsay O’Reilly French 199 Isobel Comolli
PB SIRE
BREEDING / IN-HAND POINTS
Includes listed wins / (does not include Showmanship)
PB DAM BREEDER
587 Dominic M 113 Fadila PCF 419 Royal Arabians
556 AJ Radman 108 Ava Maryia 408 Pegasus Arabians
387 Rhan Al Shahania104 OFW Praise 369 PCF Arabians
727 Sundance Kid V 171 Khaadi 694 Lawrence Jerome 534 PA Kid Khan 160 Im Bringin Sexy Back603 J Frank or Sara Chisholm
500 Khadraj NA 153 RA Kela 302 Setting Sun Stables
375 Monticello V 145 Marilyn V 274 Becker Stables 328 Khaja J 136 May Dancer V 215 Nicole Cotton
OWNER
TRAINER
ADULT AMATEUR YOUTH
344 Shamrock Farms 327 Joe Reser 153 Leslie Doran Sommer 158 Maria Letellier
196 Franklin Farm 207 Brett Becker 109 Diane Franklin 103 Rachel Vaughn
196 Gaylord Family 168 Colby Powell 86 Cole Reser 100 Megan Gudgeon 159 Lori Cantero 160 Stanley White III 82 Andrea Martoglio 98 Alana Chanelle Becker 156 Barbara Beaudoin &139 Josh Quintus 75 Natalie Gaylord 93 Natalie Gaylord Brooke Bellville
WORKING WESTERN POINTS
PB SIRE PB DAM
1410 TA Mozart 503 Nspiring Jazz 1075 Cedar Ridge Farm 689 Hesa Zee 311 WCF Olivia 911 Eleanor Hamilton 604 Nobles Top Gun305 LD Mustang Sally 871 Buckshot Farms
562 What It Takes 297 JB Dos Jalapenas 671 Wolf Springs Ranches 394 TA Giovanni 294 Minding Ps And Qs 656 Sage Hill Arabians
OWNER TRAINER ADULT AMATEUR YOUTH
608 Ingrid Bentzen 857 Jim Hitt 334 Delaney Haight 394 Riley Lallo 512 Carol Roberts 593 Jill Mitchell 261 Ingrid Bentzen 157 Grace Guadagnolo 441 Ashlye Daniel 456 Colby Powell 189 Michelle Roberts 149 Sloan Balint 409 Delaney Haight 395 Jessica Bein 183 Mignon Stetman 127 Anabelle om 397 Lyra Waggoner 305 Gordon Potts 165 Lyra Waggoner 124 Clara Fullilove
SPECIALTY POINTS
(Includes Carriage Driving) PB SIRE
DAM
1094 A res Heir 184 Heavenlei 687 Marty & Tim Shea 563 A re Bey V 123 Primroza A re 362 Prestige Farms 530 SF Aftershoc 103 Nottalooza 223 Shawn Stachowski 449 Baske A re 101 DA Lady Ti any193 Lindsay Rinehart 315 HA Toskcan Sun 99 Charmming Adona190 Cedar Ridge Farm 99 Heiress TRGR
U.S. National Top Ten Mare • Regional Champion Bred by Aljassimya Farm
Owned by Alejandro Vigil & Family
WINNING PROGENY
EVEREST ANVIL
U.S. National Reserve Champion Futurity Gelding
U.S. National Top Ten (3rd) APHA Hunter Pleasure Futurity
Scottsdale Signature Champion Hunter Pleasure
MIRÓ ANVIL
Scottsdale International Gold Champion Yearling Colt
U.S. National Top Ten Yearling Colt
OLIVIA ANVIL
World Cup Gold Champion AHBA Legacy Futurity
World Cup Silver Champion AHBA Auction Futurity Regional Champion
U.S. National Top Ten Yearling Filly
LOU LOU ANVIL
U.S. National Top Ten Yearling Filly
U.S National Top Ten Breeding Pays Futurity Filly Regional Champion
TANGO ANVIL
U.S. National Top Ten Yearlign Gelding Regional Champion
CONTRIBUTION TO THE BREEDING PROGRAM & THE BREED AS A WHOLE
Oula Aljassimya earned Anvil Arabians their rst National Championship roses just one year following her purchase, but she has made an even larger impact and contribution to their breeding program by producing ve incredible foals that have all nished Top Ten or better at the U.S. Nationals. Perhaps even more impressive is that Oula’s foals have won prestigious National titles in both Halter and Performance, exemplifying the goals of the Anvil program to create both beautiful and athletic horses for the future of the breed.
SOMETHING PERSONAL
Regardless of Oula’s show ring and breeding accomplishments, she is truly a “family horse.” She is often trail ridden by the Vigils and is also a lesson horse for their children. She’s a truly special mare and Anvil Arabians will be her forever home.
IN FOAL TO
Expecting foals by Elle Mustique and Om El Maximus via embryo transfer in 2025.
Top to bottom (l-r): Tango Anvil (by Sultan GK), Everest Anvil (by Sultan GK), Miró Anvil (by *AJ Radman), Lou Lou Anvil (by Sultan GK), Olivia Anvil (by Dominic M)
2024 AHT BREEDERS OF NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
YOUTH, MID SUMMER, CANADA & U.S. NATIONALS
1.Marty
SADDLE SEAT
1.Maegan
MOMMIE DEAREST IR
Vicario+++/ x Secret Sonnet V U.S. National Top Ten Owned & bred by Emily & Deborah Annett
SWEET MELODY B ~ 2016 Mare
Vicario+++/ x Melody V+// 2x Reserve National Champion Owned by e Strand Family
SHEEZ LIKE THE WIND ~ 2020 Filly
Vicario+++/ x SAS Sweet Annie | Owned by Louise Mary Casby
DA Valentino x Faberge AA Proudly owned by Gretchen Love
REVARIE ~ 2022 Filly
Vicario+++/ x SW Major Revelation | Owner Cathy Stau er
Hartman photo
SAS ARIAT ~ 2023 Colt Vicario+++/ x SAS At First Sight | Owned by e Strand Family
BR SUNDANCE RHOMANCE~ 2022 H/A Filly
Vicario+++/ x Sundancing | Owned by Gretchen Love
Proud Supporter
2025 U.S. National Western Pleasure Junior Horse Unanimous Champions: PA Madelyn owned by Lisa Blackstone and Milliondollarbaby SF owned by Shamrock Farms.
Karmel El Jullyen V x STLA C Im Fondau
Proudly owned by Timberidge Family LLP
The Winds Cried “Jimmy!”
by CAITLIN PIGOTT | e Good Word, Co.
Hendrixx WB (Monticello V x Pia WB, by KM Bugatti) is an easily recognizable name in the purebred western pleasure division. He has been crowned national champion amongst his peers 10 times now under the guidance of his life-long trainer Joe Reser and for his dear owner Andrea Martoglio. People have watched this gorgeous black stallion grow up and excel in the show arena. But, what they have not had the chance to see are the things that have made this journey all the more special.
ey were not there the day Joe got a video sent to him from Peri Tilghman of a young black colt who she and Mike Wilson were convinced had all the right parts to be a standout western prospect. Andrea happened to be in town riding. After a quick glance at the video and hearing Joe say “someone needs to own this horse,” she replied “maybe I should own him!” Something about this horse was special and she knew it.
e crowd of people cheering as Andrea and “Jimmy” were named national champions in the Arabian Western Pleasure AAOTR 60 & Over at the 2024 U.S. National’s also did not know that Andrea received immensely relieving medical news as she boarded her ight to Tulsa. Her tears were not only for the accomplishment that day, but of relief that she was healthy enough to keep doing what she loves.
“I could have never anticipated the success of Jimmy’s story,” Andrea shared about her special stallion. “You always hope your horses will be amazing. All I could be sure of is that he was easy to work with. He is just a great guy.”
Some of Hendrixx’s early career highlights include winning the AWPA, junior horse, and maturity at U.S. Nationals. Another fun connection Andrea has to the AWPA program is that her horse PA Tantara Always (Always A Jullyen V x PA Taylor Made) won the inaugural AWPA
Arabian Western Pleasure Futurity in 2016. Andrea and her husband Rich – who returned after more than a 20-year hiatus when they bought Tantara Always – have nothing but kind things to say about Joe’s program and especially his connection with Jimmy.
“Joe and Jimmy have such a mutual respect for each other, and we know he gets the best care,” the couple shared.
Joe returned the compliment to Hendrixx by saying, “that horse gives one hundred percent every day.” He then added a sweet testament to Andrea and the rest of his clients, “it is the greatest pleasure to watch your amateurs be successful with their horses. It is amazing to watch Andrea ride Hendrixx and realize everything she has learned over the years.”
Although Hendrixx’s career is far from over, Andrea and Rich are excited to introduce everyone to his new endeavor – breeding. ey shared that their hopes are “that what he produces will be great for the breed. He has the temperament, trainability, consistency, and athleticism.” e couple already has their own homebred foal named Eazy Ryderr RA (x PA Makkena, by PA Kid Khan) who has begun training with Reser.
eir hopes have already met the expectations of others who have Hendrixx babies to work with. Dale Brown, who has an accomplished performance career and training
program, had attering things to share about the 2024 bay colt in his program.
“I have always admired Hendrixx,” Dale said. “His ability to perform at an extremely high-level year after year speaks volumes of his trainability. His son has already shown us a great mind paired with amazing movement and good looks.”
Andrea’s faith in her beloved Jimmy has paid o in dividends since she spotted him on that rst video. So, it is fair to guess that faith will continue bene ting herself, Jimmy, and the breed. ■
Design by Brandy Phillips
Always A Jullyen V x Sweet Saphire V, by Desperado V Bred & owned by Dr. James Blevins & Kim Butler |South Chesterfield, VA
WELCOME TO THE ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE ASSOCIATION
The AWPA is thrilled to be involved in promoting this incredible group of stallions, breeders, trainers, owners and young horses. There are 108 stallions enrolled this year….. a record-breaking number! We are so appreciative of each stallion owner who has supported the AWPA. This program is successful thanks to you and the committed mare owners who continue to breed and produce talented Western Pleasure prospects.
The 2025 AWPA Stallion Service Auction will be online through the Arabian Horse Times website March 3rd-4th. Foals resulting from breedings purchased in the Auction will be eligible for an additional $54,000 in prize money in the 2030 Futurities.
As we look back on 2024, we were immensely proud of the quality of the competition in our four classes. We sent out over $300,000 in prize money last year…our highest payout to date! For the third year, the AWPA rewarded the owners of stallions who sired Futurity entries that showed ... almost $20,000 was paid out to them.
The Auction Foal Bonus Payout was also significant. The Futurity entries in the Top 14 who were the result of breedings purchased in the 2019 Stallion Service Auction were given a split of the $49,000 reserved monies -- $7,177.50 to each of the 4 Purebred Auction foals and $2,598.75 to each of the 8 Half-Arabian Auction foals.
As established several years ago, our Top Ten winners took home incredible prizes. Once again, the AWPA Exhibitor Bags were a huge hit, with thousands of dollars’ worth of goodies for each Futurity entrant. We appreciate everyone who generously sponsored items!
We could not offer the Futurities & Maturities without the partnership with The Arabian Horse Times and Equine Athlete Veterinary Services. A big THANK YOU to them and to all our sponsors who make these classes so special:
ASSOCIATION SPONSORS:
Arabian Horse Times
Purina
Perfect Products
Equine Athlete Veterinary Services
DePaolo Equine Concepts
Schneiders Saddlery Show Season
Josie Pakula
Brown & Brown InsuranceLong Meadow Arabians
LTC Magna Wave Services
We aim to continue the growth of the program in the years to come, and look forward to another incredible year!
There are 108 stallions enrolled with the AWPA for 2025 - the largest number of nominations in the history of the program! Many are offering both Purebred and Half-Arabian breedings in the March Auction. See who is the best match for your mare at arabianwesternpleasure.com! Auction hosted by Arabian Horse Times https://auction.ahtimes.com
WHY BUY AN AUCTION BREEDING?
•50% of the Stallion Nomination payments are reserved for that breeding year’s Auction foal crop to have as bonus prize money in the Futurity Finals!
•Each year, the percentage of the Auction bonus prize money divided between the Purebred and Half-Arabian Futurities will be determined by the number of breedings offered.
•Foals resulting from breedings purchased in the Auction are eligible for additional class prize money:
•The added money will be split evenly among the Top 14 AWPA Auction foals in the Finals -- no matter the placing in the class.
•For example, in the 2025 Purebred Finals, if all entries are AWPA Auction foals, the Top 14 will each receive an additional $2,092.14 in prize money [$29,290 split 14 ways].
•Likewise, if 2 of the 14 finalists in the 2029 Half-Arabian Finals are AWPA Auction foals, they will each receive an additional $12,455.00 in prize money [$24,910 split 2 ways]!
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity in March to produce a foal that will be eligible for significantly more Western Pleasure prize money than any other Futurity program!
GRACE OF MONACO
(Monaco Jullyen V x PA Maya) Ex: Liz Bentley | O/B: Kristin Harkins
KHAJ ARIA (Khaja J x UBAR 1204) Ex: Chris Culbreth | O: Gordon or Connie Fritzler B: Heather Thacker
Ex: Skylar Powell** | O: Lisa Robinson B: Silver Aspen Ranch DLC THEGOODLIFE 8th Place | $6,000 (Poco Van Star Two x DLC Exxs First Lady)
Steven Scoggins
Dennis & Linda Clark KHAJ ARIA 6th Place | $7,000 (Khaja J x Ubar 1204) Ex: Chris Culbreth | O: Gordon or Connie Fritzler B: Heather Thacker NEVER LOOK BACK DLB 3rd Place | $9,500
(PA Kid Khan x Fonda My Wimpy) Ex: Jody Strand | O: Debra or Leon Barber B: Sweetgrass Arabians LLC SHEZ AUR LUCKY CHARM 9th Place | $5,500 (PA Kid Khan x Sheza Loded Lady)
Brett Becker | O: Becker Stables, Inc.
Sally Leonardini & Becker Stables
WRITTEN N THE STARS 4th Place | $8,000 (Poco Van Star Two x CA Vista) Ex: Joe Reser | O: Shamrock Farms LLC B: Flois or Cindy Burrow
EVER CLEAR 7th Place | $6,500 (Ever More NA x Sweetie)
Josh Quintus O/B: Dennis & Linda Clark
Place | $5,000 (RD Habanero x One Knight Stand)
Dale Brown O/B: Sheila & Jenna Curley
AWPA 2024 MID SUMMER NATIONAL ARABIAN HORSE TIMES
$15,000 PUREBRED MATURITY
PA MADELYN
Champion | $4,500
(KM Bugatti x May Dancer V)
Ex/O: Lisa Blackstone
B: J. Frank or Sara Chisholm
REDEMPTION HA
Reserve | $2,250
(Bentley SF x Heartbreaker RA)
Ex/O/B: Jeremy Harper
TAMAR CAMELOT
5th Place | $1,125
(Onyx A x Tamar Guinevere)
Ex: Amy Peterson | O: Troy Peterson
B: Tamara Hanby
KHANRAD ZA
8th Place | $900
(PA Kid Khan x JB Girls Gone Wild)
Ex: Stacie Zurek
O/B: Zurek Family
CARBANERO
3rd Place | $1,425
(RD Habanero x WCF Athena)
Ex: Rod Powell
O/B: Silver Aspen Ranch
TAMAR MANDALORIAN
6th Place | $1,050
(Monaco Jullyen V x Tamar Mandolin Rain)
Ex: Leslie Sommer |O: Shamrock Farms LLC
B: Tamara Hanby
NIPSEY HUSSIE
9th Place | $825
(RD Habanero x TR Khiss N Tell)
Ex: Diane Franklin | O: Franklin Farm LLC
B: Kit Hall
HONESTO BHA
4th Place | $1,200
(Conquest BR x Bella Satinata)
Ex/O: Jennifer McVoy
B: Dean Meier
KHAREN MARIE
7th Place | $975
(Conquest BR x TH Khemarie)
Ex: Nicole Pitassi | O: Pitassi Family
B: Steve or Karen Freeman & Becker Stables, Inc.
OLEKSANDR A
10th Place | $750
(Pogrom x Omnia A)
Ex/O: Dailene Claeys
B: Whitaker Family
AWPA 2024 MID SUMMER NATIONAL EQUINE ATHLETE $15,000 HALF-ARABIAN MATURITY
WHISKEY ON YOU DLB
Reserve | $2,250
(Poco Van Star Two x Cherries Jubylee)
Ex: Leslie Sommer | O: Shamrock Farms LLC
B: Sweetgrass Arabians LLC
WC KHANVICTED
5th Place | $1,125
(PA Kid Khan x I Am A Dun Diva)
Ex: Brandi Burroughs
O/B: Cynthia Beck
CPH SIR ELTON KHAN
Champion | $4,500
(PA Kid Khan x Its Baylee Time)
Ex: Brooke Bellville | B: Abram & Nicole Cotton
O: Brooke or Larry Bellville or Barbara Beaudoin
MIGHTY MAGGIE MAY
3rd Place | $1,425
(Monticello V x Rockys Mighty Honey)
Ex: Susan Al-Abbas
O/B: Marty Lake or Susan Al-Abbas
MOODY BLUE J 6th Place | $1,050
(Khaja J x Blue Moon J)
Ex: Karen Pitassi | O: Pitassi Family B: Lawrence Jerome
KHAJ ARIA 8th Place | $900
(Khaja J x Ubar 1204)
Ex/O: Connie Fritzler
B: Heather Thacker
WRITTEN N THE STARS
4th Place | $1,200
(Poco Van Star Two x CA Vista)
Ex: Carrie Fritz | O: Shamrock Farms LLC
B: Flois or Cindy Burrow
SOUL BUCKIN FANCY M 7th Place | $975
(WR Soulman x Shez Buckin Famous)
Ex: K-La Duncan | O: Karen Duncan
B: Kendyl or Ramona Modrich
TKS DUN MAKINPROMISES 9th Place | $825
(Buckshot Dun It x TKS Alada Promise)
Ex/O/B: Kristine Simmons
STALLION NOMINATION
AWPA GUIDELINES
Stallions may be enrolled annually for the fee of $1,000 by the deadline of December 1st of the year preceding the stallion auction. For example, to have a stallion enrolled for the 2025 year, the paperwork and payment must be submitted by December 1, 2024. Nomination forms can be found at arabianwesternpleasure.com.
One (1) breeding must be donated to the AWPA Stallion Service Auction. A stallion owner may choose to donate two (2) breedings, one Purebred and one Half-Arabian, for their $1,000 nomination fee.
•Whether the owner donates one or two breedings, the nomination fee remains at $1,000.00.
•In order for both Purebred and Half-Arabian foals of the nominated stallion to be eligible to compete in the corresponding classes, the stallion must offer BOTH a Purebred and Half-Arabian breeding in the Auction.
•The stallion owner agrees to be the purchaser of the auction donated breeding if it does not sell at auction, for the minimum bid of $1,000.
•Foals resulting from breedings purchased in the Auction are eligible for additional class prize money that will be split evenly among the Top 14 AWPA Auction foals in the Finals – no matter the placing in the class.
Stallion owners receive one ‘Auction’ breeding with their paid nomination. This breeding can be used on a mare of the stallion owner’s choice or can be sold by the Stallion owner for any fee the stallion owner chooses. An in-utero Mare Nomination must be submitted by December 31st with payment of $100.
For every three (3) stallions one stallion owner nominates, they will receive a fourth stallion nomination at no charge.
Stallions who sire the Champions in the 2025 AWPA Purebred and Half-Arabian Futurity classes will receive a 2026 stallion enrollment at no charge.
MARE NOMINATION
In order for foals sired by an AWPA nominated stallion to be eligible to participate in the Futurity and Maturity classes, they must be nominated in-utero by submitting a Mare Nomination Form.
Mares must be nominated before the end of the breeding/auction year for a $100 fee. December 31, 2025, for this year. Nomination forms can be found at arabianwesternpleasure.com.
Any mare that has been bred to an AWPA enrolled stallion can be nominated. However, the stallion must have been enrolled in the type of class the foal would compete in. For instance, if a stallion only offers a Purebred breeding in the program, then Half-Arabian foals would not be eligible, and Mare Nominations would not be accepted.
The breeding does not have to be purchased in the AWPA Stallion Service Auction.
LIMITED OPEN BONUS
In addition to the class prize money at U.S. Nationals, a $2,500 bonus donated by Long Meadow Arabians will be awarded to the owner of the horse with the highest placing Limited Open rider in both the AWPA Purebred and Half-Arabian Futurity Finals.
All entries with eligible riders will automatically be entered in the Limited Open division. No additional payment is required to be eligible for the added Limited Open prize money.
Limited Open Eligibility
Riders who have won five (5) or more National Champion or Reserve Champion titles at Canadian, Mid Summer and/or U.S. Nationals will not be eligible for the Limited Open added money.
Arabian and Half-Arabian Western Pleasure classes that count towards eligibility include Open, Junior Horse, 3 Year-Old Futurity and the AWPA Futurity.
Rider eligibility is based on AHA rider records beginning in 2001. Any national tiltes won prior to 2001 will bot be counted toward eligibility.
Amateur and Youth rideres are not eligible for the Limited Open Bonus.
RIDERS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE 2025 AWPA FUTURITIES LIMITED OPEN DIVISION:
Brett BeckerElizabeth BentleyRob Bick
Abe CottonChris Culbreth
Rick GaultGreg Harris
J.T. KellerLee Mancini
Gordon PottsColby Powell
Joe ReserJody Strand
Stanley White, III
Thomas Garland
Bob Hart, Jr.
Bill Porcher
Josh Quintus
Stanley White, Jr.
ENTRIES
AWPA GUIDELINES
•Each year’s Mare Nomination list is posted on the AWPA website, and shows the nominated breedings.
•Each year’s Mare Nomination list is posted on the AWPA website, and shows the nominated breedings.
•This is in addition to the AHA entry form.
•All other entry and office fees charged by National shows must be paid directly to the show.
CLASS GUIDELINES
The U.S. National AWPA Futurity classes are open to four-yearolds who were nominated in-utero by December 31st of their breeding year.
The AWPA Maturity classes are open to four and five-year-olds shown who were nominated in-utero by December 31st of their breeding year, and to be shown by an Adult Amateur Owner rider.
A five judge total points system will be used. Each Judge’s placing will be ranked and points applied according to the following table:
1st = 40 2nd = 363rd = 32 4th = 28
5th = 24 6th = 20 7th = 16 8th = 12
9th = 8 10th = 4 11th – 14th = 0
The Board will select the five judges from the panels at each National show.
Quality is the number one criterion for judging, followed by performance, suitability, and manners.
•A stallion or gelding showing with their penis substantially exposed (flaccid or erect) in any portion of the class, will be considered to have a major manner’s violation. Judges will be advised to score the horse so as not to receive a placing in the class.
Class eliminations will be run as a standard Western Pleasure Junior Horse class.
•Elimination cuts will not ask for horses to be stripped of tack, and the lineup will have all horses face one rail, side by side.
•Fourteen (14) horses total will advance to the final.
The Final will be run as a standard Western Pleasure Junior Horse class. Upon completion of the rail portion, horses will be called to line up head to tail.
•Two attendants per horse will be allowed into the arena to assist with removing saddles and pads. They are allowed to bring a saddle rack, towel, and brush.
•Riders are to stand up their horse to be assessed for conformational suitability to Western Pleasure by the judges.
•Once the judging panel has completed their examination of a horse, it should be resaddled.
•After all horses have retacked, riders will be asked to remount and attendants will be excused from the ring.
•The Top Ten will be called out in numerical order.
•The Reserve Champion and then the Champion will be placed and given their awards. The horses will leave the arena in reverse order of their placings (10th place first and Champion last).
PRIZE MONEY
The ONLY four-year-olds allowed to compete in the U.S. National AWPA Futurities will strictly be those who were nominated in-utero by December 31st of their breeding year.
The ONLY four and five-year-olds allowed to compete in the AWPA Maturities will strictly be those who were nominated in-utero by December 31st of their breeding year.
An AWPA Class Entry Form must be submitted to the AWPA by the show entry deadline. The AWPA class entry fee is $700. The AWPA Maturity class entry fee is $500. The forms can be found at arabianwesternpleasure.com.
The $100,000 AWPA Arabian Horse Times Purebred Futurity and $100,000 AWPA Equine Athlete Half-Arabian Futurity at U.S. Nationals will be paid out as follows:
Champion
Res. Champion
3rd Place
4th Place
5th Place
6th Place
7th Place
8th Place
9th Place
10th Place
$30,000
$15,000
$ 9,500
$ 8,000
$ 7,500
$ 7,000
$ 6,500
$ 6,000
$ 5,500
$ 5,000
Any Top 14 Finalist who was the result of a breeding purchased in the AWPA Stallion Service Auction, will be awarded additional prize money.
Stallion nominators will be paid as follows based on the Futurity results:
•Sires of Champions: $1,000 AND free 2026 nominations
•Sires of Reserve Champions through 10th place: $500
•Sires of 11th through 14th place: $250
•Sires of each horse shown and judged (remained in the ring through cards being submitted) in the sections that did not advance to the Final: $250
The $15,000 AWPA Arabian Horse Times Maturity and $15,000 Equine Athlete Half-Arabian Maturity at Mid Summer Nationals will be paid out as follows:
Champion
Res. Champion
3rd Place
4th Place
5th Place
6th Place
7th Place
8th Place
9th Place
10th Place
$4,500
$2,250
$1,425
$1,200
$1,125
$1,050
$ 975
$ 900
$ 825
$ 750
*If less than 10 horses show, the payouts will remain the same for each placing.
AWPA Leaders 2016-2024
Arabian and Half-Arabian Western Pleasure
U.S. National Futurities & Canadian / Mid Summer Nationals AAOTR Maturities
The 2024 AWPA Futurities awarded over $300,000 in prize money to the owners and stallion nominators. The AWPA Maturities have paid out almost $210,000 to the amateur exhibitors in seven years OVER $2 MILLION IN PRIZE MONEY PAID OUT SINCE 2016!
LEADING
SIRES OF PUREBRED WINNERS By Money Won
Owner
1.Sundance Kid V
2.PA Kid Khan
3.Onyx A
4.KM Bugatti
5.Always A Jullyen V
6.Monticello V
7.RD Habanero
8.Bentley SF
9.Khadraj NA
10.Posession PGA
1.Poco Van Star Two
2.PA Kid Khan
3.Sundance Kid V
4.Khadraj NA
5.Khaja J
6.RD Habanero
7.Truse
8.Onyx A
9.Son Of A Dun JB
10.Khash PGA
$110,515.36
$102,452.00
$86,327.50
$76,940.00
$58,564.86
$49,750.00
$46,250.00
$43,752.86
$43,339.00
$41,252.00
Frank & Sarah Chisholm
Orrion Farms LLC
Richard & Gail Whitaker, Anne Keller
KM Stables
Frank & Sarah Chisholm
Lesley Farms
Silver Aspen Ranch
Kelli Aguirre
Lawrence Jerome
Barta Show Horses LLC
LEADING SIRES OF HALF-ARABIAN WINNERS By Money Won
Owner
$164,353.75
$84,298.75
$60,607.50
$53,300.00
$38,556.25
$24,023.35
$21,750.00
$21,598.75
$19,725.00
$19,570.00
Dr. Gregory & Alison O’Shanick and Shamrock Farms LLC
Orrion Farms LLC
Frank & Sarah Chisholm
Lawrence Jerome
Lawrence Jerome
Silver Aspen Ranch
Karen Pitassi, Nominator
Richard & Gail Whitaker, Anne Keller
Edward or Laura Friesen
Corinne & Megan Gudgeon
1. Frank & Sara Chisholm
$254,457.36
2. Richard & Gail Whitaker, $87,268.00 Anne Keller
5. Setting Sun Stables $37,690.00 6. Heather Thacker $30,344.00
7. Marty Lake or Susan Al-Abbas$29,083.00
8. Edward or Laura Friesen
$22,975.00
9. Cynthia Beck $22,725.00 10. Lori Watson $21,750.00
9.Williamson Family GST $28,475.00 Investment Trust 10. Becker Stables Inc. $25,125.00 1. Lawrence Jerome $88,107.50 2. Nicole Cotton / $76,657.50 Abram & Nicole Cotton
1.Joe Reser $121,500
2.Jody Strand
3.Brett Becker $80,500
4.Josh Quintus $65,000
5.Rob Bick
6.Stanley White III
$60,000
$59,500
7.Colby Powell $56,000
8.J.T. Keller
9.Abe Cotton
$48,500
$35,000 Tommy Garland $35,000
1.Abe Cotton $86,375
2.Joe Reser $77,625
3.Brett Becker $57,625
4.Jody Strand $54,875
5.Stanley White III $37,875
6.Colby Powell $36,500
7.Josh Quintus $31,250
8.Skylar Powell $21,625
9.Liz Bentley $14,000
10.J.T. Keller $13,750
The following lists are calculated by adding money of horses ridden and trained by the name listed. It includes prize money earned by catch riders and AWPA Maturity riders on horses in training.
1.Joe Reser
$215,625
2.Brett Becker $98,850
3.Jody Strand $91,000
4.J.T. Keller
5.Abe Cotton $70,775
6.Josh Quintus $67,250
7.Rob Bick $60,000
8.Colby Powell $48,500
9.Stanley White III $35,225
10.Tommy Garland $35,000
1.Joe Reser $167,675
Monticello V x Pia WB • Black Stallion • Multi-Program Nominated
Proudly owned by Richard & Andrea Martoglio Standing at Shamrock Farms • Trained by Joe Reser • 574.527.7090
A Friendly Reminder
“You can observe a lot by just watching.”
–Yogi Berra
We have more visitors and spectators during the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show than any other time during the year. For 70 years we have gathered to showcase our beautiful Arabian horses under the desert sunshine (well, hopefully under the desert sunshine). Some people return every year to witness the beauty and grace of the animals we hold so dear. And others will be attending for the rst time in 2025. I hope that all of them get to see the best-of-the-best not only in quality of horses, but in quality of horsemanship.
We all saw what happened during the Olympics. I am sure many of us have our own strong opinions on the disquali cations and other o enses. For me, it made me realize that it is easy to get caught up in our “bubble.” We are horsemen, horsewomen, and above all else, horse lovers. ose events made me re ect on what people might think or feel when watching all parts of our competitions – performance and preparation alike.
ere are practices with horses that we are used to, which may be alarming to those who are not familiar. We are used to seeing horses being “bagged up” to enter an exciting halter or English class. But that may look upsetting to someone passing by. We have no other chance to have an audience this large and diverse for our horses, so let’s focus on leaving them with a positive, uplifting impression.
We all can use a little reminder from time to time. ank you for letting me share my thoughts with you.
Good luck and have fun!
Lara
In the same vein, we do not have another opportunity like the one each February to introduce new people to our lovely animals. If we all opened our barn doors a little more freely, who knows how many hundreds or thousands of people would have the chance to touch and spend time with an Arabian horse during these 11 days of competition. We are welcoming, kind, and supportive to one another. Let’s show the same hospitality to those who are spending their personal time giving us an audience.
Recall that moment when you fell in love with the Arabian horse? Was it when you rst saw one, or when you rst touched and interreacted with one? And what was the event, or who was the person, who introduced you to the magic of having an Arabian in your life? ose light-bulb moments are ingrained in our minds, and how we felt will stay with us forever.
We who are in the breed consider ourselves privileged to be the caretakers of these horses and, because we care for them, realize that only we can secure their future. So, are we taking full advantage of every opportunity we have to provide that special rst moment to others?
We certainly all do at our shows. We create beautiful set-ups to take care of our clients, where we cherish being with each other—and as friends, we know it is okay to enter each other’s barn areas. We know the rules. We belong there. But to someone new wanting to see an Arabian horse up close? ey see closed o stable aisles with large curtains to protect the horses. ey see our beautiful set-ups, but no signs telling them that strangers are welcome.
And how about teaching newcomers about the Arabian horse? Watching them in a class may be entertaining but does little to explain what is going on. ey see the hustle and bustle of everyone moving from one class to the next, obviously with little time to speak to curious folks who have questions.
So, what can we do to become better promoters of our breed? Here is one way that is proving to be not only e ective, but enjoyable as well: host an Experience barn, whether it be at a show or at your home barn. It bene ts everyone—breeders, owners, trainers, exhibitors, and newcomers.
e Keystone Arabian Horse Experience launched this incredible concept in 2022 when they put on their rst event at World Equestrian Center alongside the AHAF Holiday Festival Show. ey created the Arabian Horse Experience Barn, full of Ambassador horses to meet visitors up close and personal, held child-friendly activities, like face-painting and scavenger hunts, as well as created educational experiences like clinics, training demonstrations and question and answer sessions in a nearby outdoor arena. e event was well promoted and thousands of visitors were able to meet Arabians in a true interactive and hands-on environment. e event continued with even more success in 2023 and piqued the interest of many within our show community to follow suit.
Cedar Ridge Arabians did so as well, creating their own daily, week-long Experience barn during February’s 2024 Scottsdale show and were met with almost 900 enthusiastic and inexperienced people eager for the chance to touch and learn all about the Arabian horse. Depending on the visitors’ depth of interest and the time available (from noon to 3 p.m.), they were shown everything from grooming and show prep to the basics of care and what a farrier does, and they made sure that the information o ered was top notch. Scott Benjamin led the conversation with encyclopedic knowledge in easy-to-understand terms, and was followed by fellow horse lover Kerri Buksa, whose barn tour added an opportunity to meet and touch Arabians.
ough Keystone’s Experience Barn is a large-scale format engaging multiple horses, trainers, schedules and visitors, and Cedar Ridge’s Scottsdale Experience barn created a more intimate experience with just the use of a few horses, both events prove that introducing people to our Arabian horse and providing them with even the smallest insights to our beautiful animals are huge successes and a step towards sustaining and growing our breed.
FACT:
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR SMALL YOUR BARN/PROGRAM IS ... whether you are a lesson program, a training barn with 100 horses, a small or large-scale horse show, or simply a small breeder or single horse owner that keeps your horses at home ... everyone can host host an Experience Barn to introduce the Arabian horse to newcomers!
CREATE AN INVITING ENVIRONMENT:
Welcome people to your stalls at a horse show, or to your farm or lesson program. is environment can be created through signage on or around the barn, or even by setting a white board by your stall fronts at a show, letting visitors know when your barn will be open or when you will be presenting a horse for the public to meet!
If hosting an event at your farm, consider putting signage by your gate, or decorating with balloons to set the mood for a fun and joyful time! Be sure to meet any guests and introduce yourself and the horses!
CREATE A SCHEDULE:
Do your best to create a program for your visitors! If at a horse show, let people know when your barn will be open for visitors via signage, and carve out a small amount of time to educate visitors to di erent subject matters (basic horse care, watching a horse groomed in the cross ties, or a tour through a tack room).
Consider adding items to the schedule that include a hands-on experience with a horse, like taking turns painting one in the cross ties, and then walking visitors through the bathing process!
STEP 2
CONSIDER HOSPITALITY & ENTERTAINMENT:
Consider having basic refreshments on hand for your visitors if your barn schedule is lengthy. A water and snack table can serve the purpose...or if you are creating a longer day at the farm, consider hosting some sort of lunch! A lunch can provide a relaxed environment for people to get to know one another and ask questions! It can be something as simple as a pizza order, or even inviting people to bring their own picnic lunches with them!
Does Entertainment mean music? A performance? Have no fear...it simply means, plan something fun!
Entertainment could be a scavenger hunt around the barn, face painting for the kids, setting out some cornhole games in the lunch area, or even o ering a coloring table for the kids that are in attendance.
If you are a larger operation, your Entertainment could even be hosting an Egg & Spoon Class with your clients or having a group lesson demonstration for the crowd to watch. Entertainment can also serve as education, but most importantly, it needs to be engaging!
Some inexpensive options to consider...
• Create an event on social media and share it with your followers and local groups in the area (Consider Groups for Moms/Families, Children’s activities).
• Send your Experience Barn information to Arabian Horse Times or share with @ExperienceArabianHorses and/or @KeystoneArabianExperience via Facebook or Instagram and we will share your event on our pages.
• Contact arabianhorsepromofund@gmail.com to inquire about setting up registration for your event and promoting it to those contacts we have in your area.
• Consider taking out a small advertisement in a local paper that neighborhoods in your area receive. Many cities have a complimentary newspaper that reports on activities around the city.
• Create a yer and share it with local schools, leave some at your local co ee shop or post it at local feed and pet stores.
STAY CONNECTED:
Some options...
• Consider making a registration table for visitors to be able to provide you their contact information and interests. Follow up!
• Pass out business/contact cards to visitors.
• Consider passing out Free Lesson certi cates to all those in attendance.
• If you are hosting an Experience Barn at an event, like a horse show, refer visitors to the Arabian Horse Promotional Fund Farm Finder if they are not from your area so they can nd an Arabian farm near them.
Celebrating 50 Years of Arabian Horse History in Santa
story by Evie Tubbs Sweeney | photos by Kelly Campbell & Stuart Vesty
Ynez
Valley
Over one hundred Arabian horse enthusiasts traversed the country to attend a unique Arabian horse event in the historic Santa Ynez Valley the first weekend of November 2024. Aptly named “The Reunion,” the event brought together a plethora of breed legends in the “Valley of the Arabian Horse” to relive pivotal moments and precious memories of horses and people, many of whom shaped the future of the Arabian breed around the world as we know it, as well as honoring current programs that call Santa Ynez Valley home and continue to lead the breed in their respected divisions of English, western, sport horse and halter.
The weekend kicked off at the Valley’s newest Arabian horse farm jewel, Jalama Valley Ranch, owned by Violet Sage Walker, a program that is working hard to fulfill a promise to the iconic late breeder, Larry Jerome, to continue the Jerland program at a national level. The farm is also home to rising western breeding stallion, Verdict J+. Jalama Valley Ranch opened its doors less than eight weeks before The Reunion, and still pulled off a beautiful welcome party, followed by a private concert by Juni Fisher and then thrilling first-hand stories from Doug Dahmen and Bob Sweeney on legends like *Ali Jamaal and *El Shaklan. Guests also enjoyed a library of Santa Ynez Valley Arabian Horse Association club directories 1974 to 2024, offering a fun, visual glimpse into the farms and horses that have called Santa Ynez Valley home over the decades.
Saturday morning began with a bit of rain, but guests still enjoyed a scenic Historic Farm Drive by some of the valley’s most consequential former Arabian horse farms, including Gainey Arabians, Battaglia Farms (later Day Dream Arabians), Somerset Farm, Bethesda (later Gallun Farms), Lasma West, Calisto Farms, Four Winds Farm (later Royal Oaks), Delongpre Arabians, Klee Arabians, Arroyo Arabians, Paragon Arabians, Wolf Springs Ranch, Hemming Arabians, and many others.
By the afternoon, the sun shined bright, spotlighting the English stallions of Landon Equestrian (also home to Lowe Show Horse Centre). Stallions the likes of Black Daniels, Rhythmic AHSA, Royal Nobility and Conspiracy OHS, brilliantly marched into the arena, as well as the outstanding Friesian stallion, Thomas, who will lead the way for Landon’s Half-Arabian English breeding program.
Guests enjoyed a lunch, horse presentation and epic storytelling by Paul Husband, Kit Hall, Ray LaCroix, and Mitch Sperte, ranging in topic from Khemosabi to Lasma, as well as enjoyed a Museum Walkthrough filled with rare photos and Arabian horse artifacts from the past five decades.
Attendees then changed gears heading to one of the oldest multi-generational breeding programs in the world: historic Om El Arab. Showcasing Arabian type at truly its finest, Janina Merz emceed another showstopping presentation of horses, including the extraordinary young sire Om El Maximus, and Om El Belasina, wearing her rose garland from the week prior when she was named 2024 U.S. National Champion Junior Mare in Tulsa with Sandro Pinha.
“Study the past if you would define the future.” ~ Confucius
The horses of Sherry Conrads’ Al Noor Arabians were also presented to the delight of the crowd, including 2024 ABWC Silver Champion Junior Filly, Al Noor Miralena, her little sister Al Noor Mahira, and the stunning Al Noor Suleiman… all three by Om El Maximus.
Kids from Nedra Johnson’s famed Arabian Horse Riding Academy also performed a casual riding presentation while guests munched on dinner before proceeding to the indoor arena, set up with theatre-style hay bales. Guests listened intently as the three sons of Paul Hemming –noted owner of the incomparable Raffon – told first-hand stories of their childhood growing up with Raffon.
The evening wrapped up with one of the weekend’s highlights: an hour-long documentary film entitled “The Valley that Belongs to the Arabian Horse,” showcasing rare archival footage of horses, people, and events in the Santa Ynez Valley over the last 50 years.
Sunday morning, guests arrived at Dick and Nan Walden’s Rancho Sonado Arabians, national-level breeders in working western, trail and sport horse, and specializing in amateur-friendly horses. Major Mac V, the culmination of Sheila Varian’s six generations of breeding, also made a rare, off-site appearance to guests’ delights. Nan Walden and I, both shared memories of Sheila, who was an honorary member of the Santa Ynez community.
Always a stunning experience, Diane Brown’s beautiful Antheia Arabians wrapped up the memorable weekend with a spectacular champagne brunch and presentation of Arabian horses such as head breeding stallion, Om El Benicio, as well as the iconic mare, Gloria Apal, that were truly as well-minded as they are exotic.
The event was hosted by the Santa Ynez Valley Arabian Horse Association Board of Directors, spearheaded by its president, Kelly Elm.
“What a privilege to be part of this celebration of the past and present!” said Jennifer Edmonston, one of the event coordinators. “We listened to moving tributes and incredible stories from breed legends who shaped our lifelong passion for the Arabian, and the ranch hosts amazed us with their gracious hospitality and shared their treasured horses.” Edmonston further concluded, “I felt a sincere camaraderie and had many heartfelt conversations during this unforgettable, inspiring event! The Santa Ynez Valley Arabian Horse Association has been a true gift to the Arabian world.”
Sherry Conrads is a long-time member of the Santa Ynez Valley Arabian horse community who sees the enthusiasm of today just as clear as the history of yesteryear.
“We are a vibrant, forward thinking, and dedicated group of riders, trainers and breeders,” she said. “We have been and will continue to be the Valley of the Arabian Horse.”
The SYVAHA wishes to thank each of the sponsors who made the event possible: Antheia Arabians, Al Noor Arabians, Jalama Valley Ranch, Landon Equestrian, Lowe Show Horse Centre, Om El Arab, Rancho Sonado Arabians, Russell Arabians –Katie & Joe Russell, Arabian Horse Riding Academy, EVOKE by EvieInc, Kelly Elm Training & Lessons, Equine & Canine News, Arabian Horse Times, Arabian Horse World, The Arabian Magazine, and We Love Arabian Horses. Many thanks also to Vesty Photography for photographing the weekend festivities.
The mythical quality of Santa Ynez Valley is undisputable. From the days of the Hemming family enjoying Raffon in their backyard into the escalation and height of the 80s, and settling into a new normal afterwards, this valley has and will continue to belong to the Arabian horse.
Time changes things.
The Santa Ynez Valley is quieter now. The wine industry calls it one of the hottest wine regions in the world, and a few hip new restaurants have entered the scene. But the mythical quality remains. Entrenched in the fabric of this piece of paradise is the valley that will forever be linked with the Arabian horse.
InTheirOwnWords ...
“Theideaofcelebrating (andreminiscingabout) thehistoryofthe ArabianhorseintheSantaYnezValley with thosewhospenttime here, livingthedream, has been on my mindforyears. Whenthe SYVAHAturned50, it was time to makesomethinghappen. Ishared my visionataboardmeetinginJuly. EvieTubbs Sweeney loved the idea, whichiswhatI was hopingwouldhappen, andsheran with it. Eviehastheorganizingandmarketingskills, along with a love ofthe ArabianhorsehistoryintheValley, andshehadtheexperienceof putting together asimilartourcalledthe “ValleyoftheArabianHorse Farm & WineTour” backin2008.
Asfor my personalhistory with “TheValleyoftheArabianHorse,” it beganintheearly1970s when I was 12yearsold, andIaccompanied my father, whilehe was buildingabarnforWinnand Jean Porter. The Porters were ourneighborsinLaHabraHeightsand were breedersof Arabianhorses.TheyboughtahomeonEdison Street inSantaYnez (rightnext to thepropertythatsoonafterbecame Bethesda, then GallunFarms). Iknewrightthereand then whatIwanted to do (train Arabianhorses) andwhereIwanted to doit (in the SantaYnezValley.) I feel exceedinglyblessedthat my dreamcametrue.
Aspecialthanks to thefarmsthatgraciouslyhostedTheReunion, and to my friendswhohadahistoryinSYVand showed up to share theirstories.”
~ KellyElm, SYVAHAPresidentandEventVisionary
~ Paul Husband
“The SYVAHA’s 50th Anniversary Reunion event was where the past met the present. Highlights included a documentary film by Evie Tubbs Sweeney that took us all back to the Golden Age of Arabian horses, with footage of great stallions like Raffon and Khemosabi. But the greatest aspect was that we not only saw great horses of the past, but also some of the greatest horses in the world today! It helped us remember why we love Arabian horses and why the Santa Ynez Valley is such a magical place for Arabian horses and those who love them.”
“What a spectacular weekend celebrating those today and honoring those before us as one community of Arabian horse lovers! It was truly so inspiring to hear those beloved stories that gave us all goosebumps, as well as celebrate the diversity of world-class programs that currently call this magical Valley home.”
~ Diane Brown
“The Reunion Weekend event gave us a chance to reflect on the long history of the Arabian horse in the Santa Ynez Valley and celebrate those continuing this tradition. Whether we are breeders, trainers, riders, or spectators, we owe a debt to those before us who have loved, supported and preserved our breed. It was fun to see how current breeders and trainers are adding to this history.
~ Nan Walden
~ Ray LaCroix
Seeing the diversity of ways that people breathe and enjoy Arabians reminded me that we can all help each other by being familiar with each other’s programs. That way, if we get an inquiry for a type of horse we don’t have, you can refer them to another trainer or barn. Happy Arabian owners tell their friends and refer other clients.”
“What an awesome idea, the reunion of so many old friends from the Santa Ynez Valley. Kelly Elm contacted me and asked if I would attend, and my wife and I said absolutely! And we are both very glad we did. The Reunion was really well planned. About 100 or so people enjoyed great food and stories all weekend long. Much of the time we spent catching up with those I hadn’t seen in years, like Kit Hall, and Kelly and Ron Colone! Cyndi and I saw some world-class horses, from English to western to halter. It was an incredible weekend!”
~ JaninaMerz
~ Violet Sage Walker
“It was trulywonderful to have afull weekend dedicated to therichhistoryofthosewhocamebeforeusinthismagicalValleywho each playedapartinwhere we aretoday, and to beable to celebratethediversityofbothpastandpresentthroughthecommonthreadof love fortheArabianhorse.”
“Jalama Valley Ranch, home to Verdict J+, was proud to host its inaugural open house and concert for The Reunion, marking the beginning of a thriving breeding farm that will foster connections within the Santa Ynez community and promote the legacy of Arabian horses for years to come.”
“Landon Equestrian was grateful for the opportunity to participate in The Reunion event as one of the hosting farms. We enjoyed having Arabian horse enthusiasts tour our farm and view our stock, and we applaud the members who made this event a reality. It is a meaningful event that needs to be put on every few years to reunite Arabian horse owners, breeders and trainers, and continue to introduce new participants to the community we have built of centuries of love for the Arabian horse.”
~ Brooke Landon
“Ihadnot been intheValleysincetheearly80s. It was once my homeandattheearlystageof my Arabianhorse career. TheValley was amagicalplace. There was nodestinationmorefascinating andexcitingthanthefarmcalledNicholsDeLongpre (NDL), locatedonSanMarcosPassjust outsideSantaYnez. Shortlyafterthefarm was purchased by MikeNicholsin1981, I was hired by DonDeLongpre to bethestallionmanager. Irememberthefirst day I walkeddown the driveway lookingatwhat was to be my barnandthinkingI was livinginthe “SoundOfMusic” movie.
ThelasttimeIspentanevening with Richard Petty, hesharedhisexperienceofgoingback to that farmwhere we spentso much timeinouryoungeryears. HestronglysuggestedthatI take the timeandvisit, and howmuch Iwouldappreciateit. Justbeforethe2024U.S. NationalsinTulsa, KellyElmsentmeamessageaboutTheReunionintheValleyandthatshehadpermissionfrom the owner ofthefarmthat was onceNDL, to bring over afewpeople with ahistorythere to sharetheirstories with himatthefarm. We had to dosome creative planninghereathome.While Ididn’t get thechance to visitthefarmsonthefirst day, Isuremadenewfriendsandspentsome greattime with oldonesonthesecond.
Thegreatestpartof gettingtogetherwith anyArabiangroupisthat you feel timehasstoodstill. Peoplewho you have nothadaconversationwith inyearsaresuddenlythereand we justpickup where we leftoff. We allstillrespectandadmire each other, andknow wewere maybenotside by side, but wewere certainlyinthatparalleluniverse. Imetthefamilyofafriendwhohadpassed, andit was asifIhadknown them forever.
Nothingcould have preparedmefordrivingthroughthe gates of my oldhome, NDL; my barn andwhat was oncethesale center where we all were partofmakingArabianhistory. Ourstaff may not have hadthetopbillinginourtime, but over theyears we certainly have proven to bethe absolutebestthere ever was. ThisrosterincludedJohn Power, Shari Power, MarkWharton, Jenny Fox, Jack Crawford, KevinMcBride, ChrisHarrisandRichard Petty.
SuddenlyI was walkingintothestallionbarnwherethecelebritiesfromnotonlytheArabian worldbutHollywoodandBroadwayoncestepped, intowhere weshowed thestallionsBarbary, *Eter, *Enoss, Safire, Pacific, Innovator, MarykandCompari. There were alsotheexoticmares *Bufa, *Maritsaand *Poznan, whoresided with thosestellar boys duringtheirtimeatNDL.
Thebarnstandsempty now andsteppingup to each stallIcouldrememberwhat each resident lookedlike. Alltheirquirksandspecialcareallcameback to me… thenight checks, thelong talks with Mike, thedreamsIshared with Richard, andmostofall, thelonghoursspent with thepeoplelistedabove. Given thechance, Iwould live every minuteall over again. We haditall inSantaBarbara.”
~ MarthaRattner
“The Reunion brought back nothing but great memories and good times. As I get older, I find myself telling some of my stories over and over just like my parents. Many of those stories were remembrances of how great it was in the last 50 years in the Valley. I am blessed to live here now, and it remains a magnificent place to train Arabian horses.”
~ Jim Lowe View film
Tournament Of
Roses 2025 Parade
Fifteen Arabian horses proudly represented the breed in the iconic Tournament of Roses parade presented by Honda on January 1, 2025, in Pasadena, CA.. e walk down Colorado Blvd. in front of over 850,000 spectators and millions more watching at home on local tv stations as well as several streaming channels, was aimed at celebrating the magic, spirit and unforgettable moments the Arabian horse provides.
“Riding my horse in the Rose Parade was like witnessing a dream come to life—every moment lled with smiles, joy and the undeniable feeling that January 1st was the best day ever!”
~Muna Busailah
“ e Tournament of Roses is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am so honored and humbled that I have been able to do it more than once. e view and feeling when we turn the corner from Orange Grove on to Colorado … there is nothing in the world like it.
I would sincerely like to thank all the volunteers that give up their time for both the parade and Equestfest, to promote our beloved horse. And thank you so much to those groups and people who have helped sponsor our march down Colorado Blvd.; we couldn’t do it without you.”
~Nancy Harvey
“I’ve been fortunate to present the Arabian horse in the Rose Parade as a rider and out walker. It is quite an honor to be in this magni cent parade.”
~Kathy Callahan-Smith, 40-year parade attendee
“Every once in a while, a day comes along that is just perfect, a day that makes you feel like you’re oating on air – that’s the best day ever.”
~Peyton Bergstad
“Being an out walker in the Rose Parade for our versatile Arabian horse group with lifelong friends, was the ultimate ‘best day ever’ – a celebration of friendship and the timeless beauty of these incredible horses. Sharing the grace and spirit of the Arabian horse with spectators in person and on TV made the day even more unforgettable, spreading our love for the Arabian horse far and wide.”
~Tami Pacho
Royal Arabians
EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR
Royal Arabians welcomed over 100 guests daily on January 11th and 12th for the 3rd Annual Royal Arabians Educational Seminar, held at their Halter Division facility in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event offered a rich schedule filled with informational opportunities, exquisite food and drinks, and the timeless beauty of Arabian horses.
The seminar featured a variety of engaging discussions and presentations, including topics such as halter judging, marketing best practices, equine business tax law, horse breeding, amateur prize programs, and GCAT. Each day concluded with a captivating presentation of halter horses, allowing attendees to appreciate the living art of our majestic breed.
For an even more immersive experience, participants were invited to work directly with professional halter trainers to learn proper techniques for leading a halter horse. This hands-on activity provided a rare and unforgettable opportunity to connect with the art of showing Arabians in-hand.
A heartfelt thank you to Cindy McGown, Mark Davis, and the entire Royal Arabians team for opening their doors and providing fellow Arabian horse enthusiasts with an extraordinary and memorable experience. n
Photos by Hillary Hoffman
March/April
TODAY’S BREEDING/IN-HAND & SADDLE SEAT LEADERS
EQUITATION
SCOTTSDALE SHOW COVERAGE
READERS’ CHOICE AWARD WINNERS
REGION 12 & SPOTLIGHT FUTURITY
GCAT MIAMI PREVIEW
CALENDAR of Events
REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
April 24-27, 2025
Region 7 Championships Scottsdale, Arizona www.aha7.org
May 6-11, 2025
Region 12 Championships Ocala, Florida www.aharegion12.com
May 9-11, 2025
Region 8 Championships Albuquerque, New Mexico www.aharegion8.org
May 25-June 2, 2025
Region 4 Championships Redmond, Oregon www.aharegion4.com
May 27-31, 2025
Region 9 Championships Fort Worth, Texas www.region9aha.org
May 29-June 1, 2025
Region 1 Championships Del Mar, California www.aharegionone.com
May 29-June 1, 2025
Region 11 Championships Springfield, Illinois www.aha11.com
June 12-14, 2025
Region 6 Championships Douglas, Wyoming www.region6aha.com
June 18-22, 2025
Region 13 Championships Wilmington, Ohio www.aharegion13.com
June 19-21, 2025
Region 2 Championships Santa Barbara, California www.ahareg2.org
June 25-28, 2025
Region 5 Championships Monroe, Washington www.regionv.com
June 25-29, 2025
Region 10 Championships Madison, Wisconsin www.region10arabians.com
July 1-5, 2025
Region 15 & 16 Championships Lexington, Virginia www.region15and16championship.com
July 8-12, 2025
Region 17 Championships Red Deer, Alberta Canada www.region17.com
July 15-19, 2025
Region 18 Championship Ancaster, Ontario Canada www.region18.on.ca
SHOWS
May 15-18, 2025, Ohio Buckeye Sweepstakes, Wilmington, Ohio. www.buckeyesweepstakes.com
August 1-3, 2025, East Coast Championships, Lexington, Virginia. www.eastcoastshow.com
September 10-13, 2025, Arabian National Breeder Finals, Scottsdale, Arizona. www.scottsdaleshow.com
September 11-13, 2025, NSH Finals, Springfield, Illinois. www.nshregistry.org
September 26-28, 2025, Minnesota Fall Festival, Winona, Minnesota. www.medallionstallion.com
August 14-17, 2025
Region 14 Championships Wilmington, Ohio www.aha14.com
August 24-30, 2025
Region 3 Championships Reno, Nevada www.arabianhorses3.org
November 27-30, 2025, AHAF Holiday Festival Show, Ocala, Florida. arabianhorsepromotionalfund.com/keystone-experience
NATIONAL EVENTS
Global Champions Arabians Tour
Americas Edition:
April 18-20, 2025 Miami Beach, Florida, USA
July 13-14, 2025, São Paulo, Brazil
August 8-9, 2025, Brandon, Manitoba, Canada
September 27-28, 2025, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA (Final)
December 3-6, 2025, Supreme Championship, Doha, Qatar
July 18-26, 2025
Youth & Mid Summer Nationals Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 7-16, 2025
Canada’s National Championship Brandon, Manitoba Canada
September 8-13, 2025 Sport Horse Nationals Wilmington, Ohio
October 16-25, 2025 U.S. Nationals Tulsa, Oklahoma
*Go to www.arabianessence.com or www.ecaho.org for additional international shows and information. Visit www.ahtimes.com for a calendar view of these dates, locations and more.
Calendar listings are subject to change; please confirm dates and locale before making your plans or reservations. E-mail show dates to: charlened@ahtimes.com.
*Due to the intrinsic nature of these shows, Arabian Horse Times cannot be held accountable for their validity.
Corrections...
AHT’s Breeder stats from the ANBF show were inaccurately printed in Vol. 54, No. 6 on page 204. e following stats are correct as follows: 2024 ANBF Leading Breeders (Pts: Gold/ Champion = 15, Silver/Reserve = 12, Bronze = 10, 3rd = 8, 4th-10th = 7-1 ~ Open Halter Championship classes only)
BREEDERS By points
On page 269 of Vol. 54, No. 6, Juliette Dell was erroneously missed as a 2024 U.S. National Top Five Saddle Seat Amateur Leader.
Our apologies for any confusion this may have caused.
Orrion Farms LLC ..................................................................... 9AWPA (71), BC
P
Pizzonia Training Center 36, 37
Randy Sullivan’s Training Center 33AWPA (95) Region 12 Spotlight Futurity 20, 21 Reno-Tahoe Equestrian Centre 14 Royal Arabians .....................................................................................................5
S Sage Performance Horses ................................................................ 32AWPA (94)
Shamrock Farms LLC 28-29AWPA (90, 91), 136
Shorty’s Caboy Hattery 39AWPA (101)
Silver Aspen Ranch 48-49AWPA (110, 111)
Slide To Win ................................................................................. 8, 8AWPA (70)
Stachowski Farm, Inc. 51
Strand’s Arabian Stables 62, 1AWPA (63), 38AWPA (100), 43AWPA (105)
Sugar Magnolia Arabians 43AWPA (105)
Sundancer Horses LLC 50AWPA (112)
(113)
Vallejo III, Inc.
52AWPA (114)
Varian Equestrian Center 42AWPA (104)
Western Cross Ranch 16-17AWPA (78-79)
Wilson Training Center & Bloodstock ................................................................7
