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Reser e National Champion
Purebred Country nglish Pleasure AATR Select

Nati e Costume AAOTR Country Pleasure ri ing AAOT with Tiffiny Barta





Money
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Proudly owned by


Tiffiny Barta

Amazing













Reser e National Champion
Purebred Country nglish Pleasure AATR Select
Nati e Costume AAOTR Country Pleasure ri ing AAOT with Tiffiny Barta
Money
S
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Proudly owned by
Tiffiny Barta
Amazing
Theresa Cardamone
Colleen Scott
Contributing Designers
Wayne Anderson
Jaime Johnson Emily MaitaCat McKenna
Brandy Phillips
Riyan Rivero
Ashley Toye
Jenn Trickey
With the arrival of U.S. Nationals upon us, let’s not forget to bring our sportsmanship with us. Before you mentally respond that I’m being too rah-rah, or worse yet (in today’s Me First world) naïve, let me assure you that I don’t wear rose-colored glasses and I’m definitely not naïve. I’m just tired. In a world where we find increasing incivility, and since Arabian horses are not only my business but my pleasure, I want us to be an oasis of calm and respect for each other. And if we can do that at our most important horse show of the year, when so many of us have so much on the line, then we can do it anywhere.
I know, if ever there is a time to be emotional, this competition is it. Some trainers earn the bulk of their income at Tulsa in October; you can practically see the pressure they feel. If you’re an owner or an amateur, you know how much time, effort and money you’ve put in to be here. You, too, probably feel the pressure to succeed. And on top of all that, we exist in a fishbowl where everyone in the industry is tuned in and watching.
AHT Abroad Director
& Operational Development
Mieke Opsteyn
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Occasionally
But honest question here … if we run into bad luck, or a judge’s opinion that we think is a mistake, or a show worker who doesn’t respond as we want them to, what good does venting our anger or hurt do? It doesn’t change anything or help us feel better. It may be hard to feel charitable when something doesn’t go right, but it’s important that we do just that. The one thing we can count on at Nationals, if we love our horses and our community, is that we can enjoy our friends and associates. Why make that difficult?
Here are my thoughts on ways that ensure that our sportsmanship can make the Nationals experience better for everybody.
· Treat others as you would like to be treated. Give everyone, people and horses, the benefit of the doubt.
· Remember that each judge has only one set of eyes and cannot see everything.
· And be grateful for the volunteers who put on this show; they’re not getting paid, and they’re trying to do the best job they can. Literally, without them we could not have the U.S. Nationals.
One of the hardest words to keep in mind during stressful times is “forgive.” We all make mistakes and sometimes we are the victim of other people’s errors. The quickest way to get over such things is to forgive and move on.
And let’s remember that we’re in the entertainment business. Let’s do our part to make our most important show fun and enjoyable. It’s critical in attracting new participants, and in our own best interest in seeing that everyone there wants to come back and do it again. Good luck to all!
Owner/PublisherYou take great care in choosing what to put on your horse. Success begins with the same care in what you put in them. DePaolo Equine Concepts will customize your horses’ supplements for optimum healthcare.
Itall starts so unassumingly… you visit friends who own Arabian horses, not even quite understanding the breed or any of the speci cs— and immediately the horses that are staring back have captivated you in the most magical way. This is how one falls in love with the Arabian horse, this is how the Arabian horse lifestyle journey begins, and most de nitely how it began for Murray and Shirley Popplewell.
“It started off with two Arabians,” says Murray, unassumingly and completely unaware at the time of what was transpiring and unfolding right before himself and Shirley. “We were visiting friends who were breeders and we bought two Arabians for trail riding,” he shares. “And now here we are near 25 years later,” Murray exclaims, as he takes a quiet moment to re ect on all the goodness that has come into his and Shirley’s life as a result of the Arabian horse.
“It’s most de nitely the people, of course the beautiful horses, and the lifestyle that comes along with being involved with Arabian horses,” Murray says. “It continues to be a wonderful way of life for Shirley and I—we enjoy it very much.” Throughout
their journey of loving the Arabian horse, there is no doubt the Popplewells have seen change and the evolution of the breed, witnessed in their own horses, as they continue to write many wonderful chapters for the RaeDawn story, which now spans two countries and includes Arabian horses bred by the farm having a global reach.
“Perhaps 2008 could be the precursor of what was to come,” smiles Murray. “We were in Las Vegas for the Arabian Breeders World Cup and the most extraordinary colt took us by complete surprise.” Though they were not intending to purchase a stallion for their breeding program, the ery bay colt somehow sparked a re within Murray, and as they say, the rest is history. “I think it was then and there that we made the leap to go all in,” says Murray.
That colt was then two-year-old Bey Ambition, and was perhaps the most signi cant step in Rae-Dawn Arabians’ budding breeding and show program. It should be noted that shortly after the World Cup show, the Popplewells purchased their satellite farm in Scottsdale to complement the Saskatoon operation, so it’s no understatement that the year 2008 was a pivotal year for the Rae-Dawn program. “We are forever grateful to Bey Ambition’s breeder, Lucy Whittier, for allowing him to come into our lives,” notes Murray. “The breeders are everything—the foundation of the industry—so it’s important to Shirley and I to always celebrate the breeders every chance possible.”
A re ection of this sentiment could be seen again at this year’s 2022 Arabian National Breeder Finals held in Scottsdale, Arizona, where Rae-Dawn Arabians proudly sponsored for the third year in a row the show’s High Point Breeder Award. “No breeder … no horse, no industry,” says Murray. “We can’t emphasize it enough; the breeders are everything, they need our support, and we are grateful to all of them for producing beautiful Arabian horses for all of us to enjoy.”
Bey Ambition was crowned 2008 Arabian Breeders World Cup Gold Champion Two-Year-Old Junior Colt and has gone on to capture several national championship titles as both a junior and senior stallion, including his nal appearance as 2020 Scottsdale Champion Senior Stallion AAOTH with Murray at the lead. Some 16 years later, as Bey Ambition settles into retirement from the show ring and now stands privately at stud, breeding only RaeDawn mares, he continues to be the cornerstone of the farm, and his contribution is continuously felt across the industry, siring excellent Arabian horses. In fact, it could be argued that Bey Ambition is one of very few stallions in our breed today siring both halter and performance horses who are winning championships at the highest levels of competition. His sons and daughters are not only winning in the show rings but are now producing a dynasty all themselves.
Recently, the 2019 Unanimous Scottsdale International Gold Champion Senior Stallion Delacroixx, bred by Laura Koch and sired by the Bey Ambition son RD Dynamo out of HED Caramba, was exported on lease to a prominent breeding farm in South Africa. And Bey Ambition’s youngest son, RD Giuliano, out of Brazilian import Giulia AL, was this year’s 2022 Arabian Breeders World Cup AHBA Auction Futurity Reserve Champion Yearling Colt with Murray. Of course, we can’t forget about one of his most special daughters, RD Marciea Bey, this year’s 2022 Scottsdale Champion Senior Mare AAOTH, who brought home the red roses with Murray, marking this the fourth win for a daughter of Bey Ambition to capture the Scottsdale Mare AAOTH championship garland. Another beauty, RD Raena (out of Syarah Serondella), sparkled under the desert sky this past April as she was crowned 2022 Arabian Breeders World Cup AHBA Legacy Futurity Champion Yearling Filly.
Always mindful of the importance of form to function, Bey Ambition also continues to sire his fair share of top-notch performance winners as well: Big Ambition TRJ, bred by Ross and Terri Danielson and owned by Terra
Sano Ventures of Texas, was 2022 Region 11 Champion Western Pleasure Open with Jody Strand; Four Seasons, out of a Sundance Kid V daughter and bred by Cathy Stauffer of Oregon, was 2022 Region 13 Champion Western Pleasure AATR with his owner Joe Frizzell (and Debbie); and TRJ Classic Ambition, bred by Ross Danielson and owned by Mike and Kimberly Beethe, earned the 2021 Mid Summer National Champion Western Pleasure AATR Elite title.
The Popplewells have spent many years establishing their ourishing program, building a solid foundation of show and breeding horses to include the pedigrees of Bey Jullyen, Versace, Utrillo NY, Bey Shah, Falcon BHF, Polidoro FC, and DA Valentino, but continually crosses with outside stallions to introduce new blood to their program. In studying the pedigrees, you will nd the likes of Padrons Psyche, Ali Jamaal, Marwan Al Shaqab, *El Nabila B, Magnum Psyche, Sanadik El Shaklan, Shanghai EA, Baywatch V, Truest, FA El Shawan, FA El Rasheem, QR Marc, and A re Bey V. This diversi cation is all with the intention of producing a complete Arabian horse, something the Popplewells are very devoted to.
As with most endeavors, evolution and change is guaranteed, but “one thing that has remained steadfast with our farm, the horse industry, and with life in general,” says Murray, “is that the only thing ever guaranteed is change.” And change has it ever. In 2019, Mr. Alcides Rodrigues joined the Rae-Dawn Arabians team as resident trainer and manager of the Scottsdale farm. Rodrigues, a native of Brazil, brings to the farm an immense wealth of knowledge, experience, talent and positive energy, as well as a reinvigoration of searching out and acquiring the absolute best to elevate and represent the farm on the world stage. The collaboration between Murray, Shirley, and Alcides has proven to have formidable results. “It’s so important to always be forward thinking and be open to the idea of adding something new to the program should an opportunity present itself,” says Murray. And Alcides concurs. “We are always keeping our eyes peeled for opportunities to continue to elevate the farm’s pro le,” he says.
At the 2020 Scottsdale Show, a young lly presented an opportunity for the farm and MD Massima came into the picture and joined the RaeDawn collection. A spectacular daughter of Truest, MD Massima descends
from the matriarch herself, MD Mirka, a mare blending the program of Ecuadorian breeder, Mr. Manuel Durini. “Adding to her power-packed pedigree,” re ects Murray, “MD Massima won the 2020 International Gold Champion Yearling Filly title at Scottsdale with then trainer, Mike Wilson, and capped an already momentous year with her crowning of 2020 U.S. National Champion Yearling Filly with Alcides—a perfect ending of the show season.” Alcides adds, “She is one of the most elegant young mares in the world and I am honored to present her in the Futurity Filly class at this year’s U.S. Nationals. “She is ultra-feminine, extremely beautiful, and offers the Rae-Dawn program a lot. We all love her!” It was only tting and a perfect selection, that MD Massima be the choice to grace the cover of this month’s Arabian Horse Times U.S. Nationals issue—beauty that’s absolutely undeniable.
Along with discovering the next top show and breeding lly for the farm, equally important is discovering the next best, young colt to
Championship Two-Year-Old Filly title with Alcides on the lead. So beloved was she by the Popplewells, they returned to Giana Leah’s pedigree (Polidoro FC x Aliyah Vision PCF, by PCF Vision), and now look forward to seeing if lightning indeed strikes twice, with their beautiful homebred yearling and full brother to Giana Leah, RD Alidoro.
“Tall, charismatic, and lots of uff perfectly describes Alidoro,” says Alcides. And he holds quite a high opinion
of himself as well. Uniquely similar but also very different than his older sister, RD Alidoro is already on his way, accomplishing a Unanimous Reserve Championship Yearling Colt win at the 2022 Region 7 Championships held in Scottsdale this past April, and has been preparing ever since and is ready for the U.S. National Yearling Sweepstakes Colt class. “He has a similar sparkle like Giana Leah did at this age,” notes Murray, “but he is also so very different. We are very excited! Win, lose, or draw, we know he’s something special and it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world sees what we see.”
It’s as if the Rae-Dawn farm in Saskatoon has streamlined into perfect cohesion with the Scottsdale farm, which literally bridges together a smooth running operation spanning both countries, working in unison in raising, training, and showing beautiful Rae-Dawn Arabian horses the industry and the world has come to expect. “The team at both farms is second to none,” comments Shirley, who oversees the broodmares, foaling, and mare care with Saskatoon farm manager Amie Sewell and the team up North. “Everyone knows where they t in,” Murray adds, “and everyone works together for the betterment of the farm in caring for and preparing the horses in every best possible way. We are very lucky the horses are in such great hands.”
contribute to moving the farm forward. “A few years ago,” notes Murray, “we had the opportunity to acquire an extra special lly named Giana Leah PCF.” Bred by Sam Peacemaker and under Rae-Dawn ownership, she went on to win the 2018 Scottsdale Junior Filly Championship, 2019 U.S. National Champion Open Filly, and came back the following year to win the 2020 U.S. National
There have been many beautiful horses bred, born, and raised on the Rae-Dawn farm that have gone on to do wonderful things, and 2022 has seen many wonderful moments so far: RD Dynamo (Bey Ambition x TF Falconsimprint) is now exported and living a wonderful life breeding mares down under in Australia; RD Harenaado (Hariry Al Shaqab x DM Endless Romance) is making his mark on show rings around Europe, winning top prizes including three gold championships for owners Al Zoabi Stud; RD Annalise (Pharoah HBV x DM Endless Romance) was 2022 Scottsdale Champion Yearling Senior Filly with David Boggs for owner Stacy Sachen’s Anivia Equine;
“The breeders are everything—the foundation of the industry—so it’s important to Shirley and I to always celebrate the breeders every chance possible.”RD Marciea Bey (Bey Ambition x RD Marciena) wearing her 2022 Scottsdale Champion Senior Mare AAOTH roses she won with Murray Popplewell. RD Alidoro (Polidoro FC x Aliyah Vision PCF) - 2022 Region 7 Unanimous Reserve Champion Yearling Sweepstakes Colt with Alcides Rodrigues.
and RD Prelinda (Preludio OSB x RD Quianna), purchased by friend Manny Vierra, was second in the same class to bring home Reserve Champion Senior Yearling Filly honors, as well as a reserve championship in the Scottsdale Signature Yearling Filly Futurity class. Of course, not to be outdone, she also earned 2022 Region One Champion Yearling Filly in Del Mar, California—wonderful results for Rae-Dawn Arabians and the horses descending from the thoughtful choices of a ne-tuned breeding program.
“This year has seen lots of momentum for the Arabian horse industry,” says Murray. “When news broke that the Canadian National Championships would have to be postponed for the third year in a row, well, we just had to do something about it.” Together with a wonderful, enthusiastic, and dedicated group of Arabian horse lovers in Canada, the group hit the ground running and organized a new show, “Canada’s National Arabian Championships,” which is slated to run September 27-October 2. The show is the culmination of a tremendous collaborative effort between many dedicated individuals who love the Arabian horse and who want to see the Canadian Arabian horse industry thrive and ourish in the great white North.
“Another exciting event slated to take place this October is the $200,000 Breeding Pays Halter Futurity, comments Murray, “that will pay out $100,000 in prize money to both the National Champion Two-Year-Old Filly class and the Two-Year-Old Colt & Gelding class at the U.S. Nationals.” The Breeding Pays Futurity is an exciting new prize money program celebrating both the owners and breeders of halter horses. Uniquely, these two prize money classes, which are in addition to the 2022 class schedule, will be the only year that any two-year-old will be eligible. Next year and beyond, foals must be sired by halter futurity nominated stallions to be eligible to compete. “It is a ‘breeding pays’ futurity which means the prize money will be split equally between the breeder and the owner,” says Murray. A superbly backed group of founding members, along with a reputable and cognizant board of directors, have ensured a top notch program to inject wonderful, positive energy into the halter breeding community.
“It’s amazing to think how far we’ve come,” says Murray. “Shirley and I used to sit high up in the stands at Scottsdale and Nationals when we were rst starting out with Arabians and dream of competing and breeding horses on that level. What started out as an acquisition of a few trail riding horses for hobby has transformed into a world-class collection of breeding and show horses, with two separate facilities - the breeding farm in Saskatchewan, Canada and the marketing, sales and show center in Scottsdale, Arizona. It makes us so proud to see horses from our program bring joy to new owners all around the world.”
The Arabian horse lifestyle is a beautiful way of life and Murray and Shirley Popplewell have embraced it fully. With sights set on Tulsa, Oklahoma and the 2022 United States National Championships, we’re sure there will be many more chapters to add to the Rae-Dawn Arabians story.
3-Years and Older Geldings
Futurity Geldings
Owned
Keegan
Breeding Pays
Owned
Vitorio TO x Kyrie Elleison H/A Geldings St/H Type Open with Ted Carson AAOTH with Lisa Gaudio
Vitorio TO x Kyrie Elleison H/A Mares S/P Type Open with Ted Carson AAOTH with Lisa Gaudio
Lisa Gaudio & James Kazanjian
2020 U.S. National Halter Breeder Of The Year www.KyrieArabians.com
Vitorio TO x Kyrie Elleison H/A Mares St/H Type Open with Ted Carson AAOTH with Lisa Gaudio
A DAY DEDICATED TO CELEBRATING THE ARABIAN HORSE BREED.
THE BEAUTY, THE HISTORY & THE COMPANIONSHIP.
EVENTS AT THE SCOTTSDALE ARABIAN HORSE SHOW & NATIONWIDE.
Owned by Amazing Horse Woman, LLC
Standing at Vicki Humphrey Training Center
Owned by Amazing Horse Woman, LLC
Standing at Southern California Equestrian Center
Owned by Beth Jupp | Mamage’s legacy lives on in the breeding program of Amazing Horse Woman, LLC.
We are pleased to o er frozen semen from Mamage.
Who knows Kiesner Training’s Joel Kiesner better?
We asked his wife, Ashton, and trainer, Wyatt Budd.
FAVORITE SNACK
Dried fruit and nuts Trail mix Fig Newtons
FAVORITE HORSE SHOW U.S. Nationals U.S. Nationals U.S. Nationals TO ATTEND
FAVORITE SPORT OUTSIDE Hiking or diving Sailing Football OF SHOWING HORSES
FAVORITE HOLIDAY Christmas Christmas Christmas
PHONE CALL OR TEXT Text Text Phone Call
FAVORITE CLASS TO SHOW IN AEPA
PB Open English
PHRASE SAID MOST OFTEN “Get his head straight!”
“Perfect”
“One more lap!” GIVING A LESSON OR COACHING ON THE RAIL
FAVORITE BEVERAGE Red Wine Red Wine Red Wine MOST VISITED RESTAURANT e Brassarie e Brassarie
Amici’s
GO-TO PIECE OF TACK Short Shank Curb Saddle Draw Reins
JR HORSES OR OPEN HORSES Open
FREE TIME SPENT
With family
Jr. Horses Open
What free time? Sculpting
PROFESSION IF NOT Artist Artist Art Professor A HORSE TRAINER
FAVORITE NON-HORSE ANIMAL Dogs Dogs
Saber-Tooth Tiger
LEAST FAVORITE CHORE
Putting his show clothes away
Cleaning Stalls
Cleaning Stalls ON THE FARM
PRE-SHOW RITUALS
Horse lists and their goals Lucky pennies
Ties dependent on horse or class OR SUPERSTITIONS
SHOW HORSE Sky Watch Sky Watch
Epoque Kiss (PAST OR PRESENT) DREAM RIDE
EARLY BIRD OR NIGHT OWL Night Owl Night owl Night Owl
Half-Arabian English THE ONE THING CAN’T Me! Ashton Ashton LIVE WITHOUT
ASHTON JOEL WYATTROL Divine Style+ x Julietta Ames
Proudly bred & owned by Cedar Ridge Arabians
U.S. NATIONAL ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE & PLEASURE DRIVING with Tom Moore
ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR 50 & OVER AND ABS JACKPOT with Lara Ames
SHF
SF Aftershoc+ x Merry Magnifire
Proudly bred & owned by Tom & Elizabeth Moore
U.S. NATIONAL
ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY with Elizabeth Moore
ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE & PLEASURE DRIVING with Tom Moore
(SF Aftershoc+ x Isabella Davinci)
Proudly bred & owned by Cedar Ridge Arabians
U.S. NATIONAL H/A ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY, ABS JACKPOT, 50 & OVER AND IN-HAND SADDLE/PLEASURE AAOTH with Lara Ames
H/A PLEASURE DRIVING with John Golladay
H/A GELDING IN-HAND SADDLE/PLEASURE 3 & OVER with Kenny McDonald
Contact trainers Mike Miller,
Designed by master craftsmen, with ‘Tradition In Every Stitch,’ the World Cup SG Saddle is Freedman’s most popular cutback saddle. Performance, elegance, comfort, and stability all intersect, providing great improvement to rider timing and performance. The super grip leather, as designated by the ‘SG’ is a leather that aids with rider contact with the saddle, improving their ride and therefore keeping the horse comfortable. The World Cup SG Saddle is sure to continue to be a favorite in show horse arenas.
Tested and designed by Arabian Halter Trainers. Newly redesigned for the Arabian Halter horse with a strong, reinforced ring weld. Available in four sizes (weanling, yearling, two-year-old, and full-sized), these cable show halters age with the horse and are true to size. The slightly wider crown piece makes the transition from training halter to show halter simple, while the elegance and craftsmanship of the leather showcases the energy and beauty of the Arabian horse.
A new take on our Freedman’s Acavallo Memory Foam/Gel Silicone Pad. This new pad is still full compression with a gel top and memory foam center, but now lined with black eco-fleece esigned e clusively to fit discreetly under reedman cut back saddles and engineered by cavallo, you can now say goodbye to a bulky, multi-pad strategy. his is the only pad that you ll need ested by Jessica Clinton and Vicki Humphrey Training Center, this pad is the high-tech, full comfort, non-slip answer you have been looking for.
With our small batch line of Ranch shirts, Custom Collars Boutique not only keeps you looking the part, but our performance stretch fabric works hard to keep you feeling your best. Our premium stretchy shirting fabric provides maximum movement, resists wrinkles and has a smoothing effect in all of the right places. Each shirt in this collection is designed with ranch events in mind and with the perfect amount of western flair. Wanting to design the perfect ranch shirt to complement your horse? We also offer custom western shirts to give you just the right fit and a look all your own. Pictured is ‘The Logan Western Shirt’
If you are looking for an alternative to the bling in showmanship, we’ve got you covered. Professional and classic, our showmanship suits are a great way for you to stand out in the ring. For customers looking for something to purchase now, we offer a ready-made line of showmanship suits available in sizes 0-16. For those looking to customize a special look designed to complement both horse and exhibitor, we offer fully custom suits and shirts. By choosing just the right fabrics, trimmings and a flattering cut, our made-to-measure suits will give you confidence and style.
Our ready-made and custom hunt coat line has been one of our favorite products since we started in 2011. Whether you stick to the classic and sophisticated side or you prefer a hunt coat with a little flair and fun, we aim to offer both and everything in between. We keep our booth and website stocked with youth and ladies sizes 0-16 to help you find the look you want at an affordable price point. For our customers looking to dream up their own hunt coat in their custom measurements, our made-to-measure hunt coats will accomplish just that. Stop by and see us at U.S. Nationals!
I became involved in the industry before it was an “industry”! As a child I rode and showed a Welsh pony while my mother trained and showed her purebred Arabian gelding. We traveled to one- and two-day shows around the southeast, showing out of the trailer and sleeping in the camper shell on the back of our pickup truck. I graduated to showing the Arabian gelding only a er I had gained enough skills to use proper aids. at was the beginning of a life-long involvement with Arabian horses.
My rst Nationals was in the late 1970s, not showing, but working in center ring as a score keeper. Back then, the three-judge system was calculated by hand! Two of us would independently score the cards with a third person overseeing the tabulation, then compare results to be sure we did not make any mistakes. No computers to blame at that time! Since then, I have attended almost all the Nationals, whether showing, working or just spectating.
Back in 1979, I attended the Arabian Horse Fair in Norfolk, Virginia where I had the great pleasure of meeting both Wayne Newton and Aramus in his stall. Aramus was simply the most charismatic horse I think I’ve ever experienced. He exempli ed all the intangible qualities most revered in Arabian horses. You felt you were around royalty when standing next to him, Aramus and Wayne actually!
Both the Open and Amateur Arabian English classes!
By the time I was about 10 years old, my mother was rmly devoted to promoting the Arabians and we owned two or three more. Among other things, she helped form the Southeastern Arabian Horse Association, we took Arabians to town parades, and she petitioned the local shows and the 4-H to include Arabian classes. So, I showed Arabians in local shows, 4-H, then Class A shows before competing at Nationals.
My relationships with my horses are very special, whether at a horse show like the Nationals or just at home grazing them by hand. e horses and the very important friendships I have as a result of them has added so much depth and quality to my life. It is the combination of working towards a goal with your horse, supporting your friends in their journey to do the same, and enjoying time together at this great event that makes the U.S. Nationals the best week of the year!
Beside Aramus … Bask ~ Aladdinn ~ Khemosabi ~ Rose Araby Strom (my rst Arabian show horse)
Joined e Industry
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
1996 15
Western Pleasure Open and Senior Stallions
I’ve been in the industry since 1989. I bought my rst Barbary+++ daughter and she became the foundation for becoming a halter breeder in 2002.
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
I love my horses like they are our kids. I know each one’s personality’s so well, I will personally groom and give them the love they get at home. ey keep me happy.
I try to get prepared for us by eating well and getting sleep, but mostly though, spending time with my horses helps me stay calm, and just feeding them carrots and petting them can take away any jitters.
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Barbary ~ Ali Jamaal ~ Sundance Kid V ~ Khemosabi ~ Kyrie Elleison
Show “Horse” Ritual
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
1999ish
is will be my second year.
e way the horse community joined together for people being evacuated because of res; it was amazing how many people stepped up.
e Park classes always are entertaining.
I started riding Arabians about 1999, and up until last year, being my rst year competing at U.S., I’ve mainly done local and regional shows with a few trips to Canada.
I’m very involved with both the horses I will be showing while at the show and have a strong connection with each. Of course, it feels great to win, but the enjoyment for me comes from the partnership with the horses and the people.
I try not to think about it too much. I don’t have a lot of down time between shows with my business, so I pretty much just go and try to remember everything my trainers have told me.
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Eight
Deb McGuire’s ability to put more children on the back of a horse than anyone I know. I work at Performance Plus Arabians in Sioux Falls, SD for Deb McGuire, and in the years past she would host an annual “Horsey Halloween” for the kids from town who get dressed up and come out to the barn for an evening of candy, food, hayrides, scavenger hunts, haunted scary barn (the lesson kids would put on), games, contests and horse rides. e cars would line up. Families go through the barn admiring all the beautiful show horses on display, and the lesson horses are all busy giving children rides around the arena. And despite the ashing cameras, excitement, all the decorations, and children loaded up with candy, every Arabian lesson horse takes every little rider on their backs around the arena with perfection every time! Standing quietly for photos, kisses, petting, through all the noise, they seem to know they are among people who have never been around horses and they stand quietly, perfectly, letting each rider up gently, walking for the ones that are unsure. ey are a perfect Ambassador for the Arabian breed.
She also hosted Y Camp kids in the summer who came on busloads each day to learn and ride the Arabian horse, in addition to her always full lesson program. She also has her 4th of July celebration that everyone is invited to come out for. Horses are still loved by many people, they just need opportunities to come and learn.
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
For over 10 years, I worked at Heartland Arabians and then Performance Plus Arabians, both in SD, before I started showing. I took care of all the show horses every day. I worked with some amazing horses and people who inspired me to begin showing. I grew up showing Quarter Horses and was involved in 4-H. I showed my rst horse at age 10 and continued through high school.
I try to let my horses stay focused on the job ahead of them. I want them to concentrate on Lizzy and what she is asking from them. I try to give everyone the space they need to prepare and not cause unnecessary distractions. We have lots of time for attention, brushing and treats when we are nished.
I have to spend quiet time alone. I have to visualize my ride and go over everything that Lizzy has told me to do.
Jenna Bollens ~ Stewart Performance Horses Red Tape ~ GTF Beetlejuice ~ Apollopalooza ~ Extremely Fortunut ~ Adams FireJoined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Around 1990 when I was in walk/trot.
At least 15. I’ve lost count over the years!
For me, the friends I’ve made through Arabian horses is the most impactful part of the industry. From best friends to bridesmaids, the people I’ve met have made this whole crazy journey worth it. It’s also something my family has done together, so the time spent with them over the years has also meant a lot.
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
e 3-year-old English Futurity classes. It’s always so fun to see the next generation of stars for the rst time!
I’ve been involved since the early 1990’s when I showed in walk/trot with Lori Ross. anks to her, saddle seat equitation was a passion of mine and I was fortunate to win numerous national championships throughout my youth career. We were then connected to fellow Iowa family and barn, Matthias Arabians, who inspired us to get into breeding horses 20 years ago. Depending on what each horse wants to be when it grows up, they get to go to “school” with Shan at ChriShan Park or Matthias Arabians, to start their performance careers.
Many years (and many horses!) later, we are still enjoying the breeding journey. Showing horses we breed makes it so much more meaningful. I’ve been very fortunate to win silver trophies and rose blankets, but nothing beats getting to ride a horse you bred for the rst time. at journey is what keeps me in the industry now; winning a ribbon is just icing on the cake.
Mental & Physical Preparedness Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
I live several hours away from my horses at ChriShan Park, so just getting to be near them all week is exciting. I obviously sneak in some practice rides (between happy hours), but most of all, I just like to visit them in their stall and spend time with them.
I try not to put too much pressure on myself or the horses. I’m usually showing young horses we bred, and I just work to have a better ride than the last time and try to do them justice.
I’d love to bring back all my favorite horses that have crossed over the rainbow bridge, including … my national champion saddle seat horse Dancing Shoes ~ our stallion Xanthuss ~ national champion Saturdaynite Live ~ our great broodmare CR Berry Brandy ~ our stallion Bryzzo (so I can brush his mane every day). :)
Joined e Industry
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Being involved in the delivery of one of my Arabian babies this year.
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
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Show “Horse” Ritual
I was born into it in 1971 and have been involved as long as I can remember.
Too many to count!
When Baske A re sold … a two-month period I will never forget in my life.
I would say 13 years.
I just try to get in the moment and enjoy and build on every ride.
I try to step up my cardio and riding.
1998
Give or take 15 (if counting Youth).
H/A English Junior Horse
Maximumm Overdrive ~ MHR Nobility ~ OA Starstruck
SA Sophisticated Lady ~ Mandalay Bay
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers 1998
I have attended or competed at 14 U.S. Nationals.
Arabian English Pleasure Open and Arabian Western Pleasure Open are classes I refuse to miss.
I have been involved with Arabian horses since I was 6 years old. I began taking lessons at 6 and then at 9, I began competing in the walk/trot division. at is when I started competing at Youth Nationals. My family has been involved with Arabian horses for many years and my cousin showed Arabians as well. It was when I went to watch her compete at Youth Nationals that I told my mom that was what I wanted to do and never looked back. I rst learned to ride on my grandparent’s farm in a small town in Oklahoma, and then from there, my mom found Windy Meadows Farm where Carole Stohlman was the instructor, and where I would learn to ride and take lessons for many years. I have been so lucky to have had so many wonderful trainers and instructors in my life. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the journey unfolds.
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
I like to try and practice on my horses as much as I can before the show and also plan for lessons at the show before my classes. I also like to continue to work out. I have a Peloton bike at home that I use o en and this not only helps me physically, but also mentally with staying focused and calm.
Axinite A ~ Standing in the Fire (both I am showing at Nationals this year) ~ Baske A re ~ Onyx ~ Heirs Noble Love
My 10-year-old daughter riding with Christy—it brought her everyday con dence level up 100%!
My parents bought me a chestnut Arabian mare for Christmas in 1990 and I haven’t looked back!
I love just spending time with them! If I’m not a winner at a show, I shrug it o ; it’s all about being with the horses you love.
I’m pretty chill; nervousness clouds thinking, so I try to master a calm attitude every time I show. I run/li weights a few months before U.S. Nationals.
My two favorites who have passed … Sadazzy ~ Canadian Encore, and the horses I own now.
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Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
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In 2007 I began taking lessons and doing summer camp when I was seven. My aunt, who has since passed away, used to take me to the barn every Wednesday a er school.
is is my third.
When I used to go up and work at Dean and Sherrie Lacey’s! ey taught me to drive a car and a 4-horse drawn carriage (lol!) and they also involved me in breeding, walking horses who were su ering from colic, and helping to break horses. It was such an experience with the most wonderful and knowledgeable people ever.
Any Maturity or Futurity English class!
I attended my rst U.S. Nationals as an amateur in 2019. My journey began with a sweet mare who taught me to ride. Since then, we’ve increased the competitiveness of our horses and I moved from hunter and western pleasure to working western. I love working western, it’s only about me and my horse. We are the only two in the arena and must work as a perfect pair to perform.
Show “Horse” Ritual
When I’m at a large show, we are riding every day. ere’s no better time than when I get to spend multiple consecutive days with my ponies both in training and back at the barn. When my mare nickers when I walk by, it warms my heart and makes me love her all the more.
Hah! Not long before U.S. Nationals, I endure 2 1/2 weeks of college marching band camp from 9am to 9pm every single day. I think that’s pretty amazing mental and physical preparation for just about anything!
Joined e Industry
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1981 Four
e day we purchased my horse Market Jitters. Irwin Schimmel turned him loose and a er running just a little, he pranced right up to my husband as if to say, “take me home.”
Sixteen years. I was rst given a foal by a friend I was doing work for. is young Arabian just melted my heart and was so smart. I was hooked! He broke his leg, so I found another horse, CM Top Gun, from my rst trainer Rick Gault. We won our rst class doing show hack and were Canadian reserve champions that year. I enjoyed him (Cruise) and Market Jitters each for about 10 years at Regionals and Nationals, just missing a National title. I now have the National title in Arabian Show hack AAOTR with Catching Fire CA, with the support of Doug and Kristi Stewart—they are incredible.
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
I love spending time with Catchi at the show. I not only get to ride him, I get to groom and bathe him. I don’t have to, I want to. I also take him for walks. Spending time other than riding adds more fun to my experience.
I get as many lessons in as I can. I also do light workouts at home. I do try to get a good amount of sleep. It helps me mentally to spend time with the other exhibitors. e friendships really help to make the horse shows worth going to for me. If I had to do this alone, I doubt I would last very long.
A res Heir ~ Pericles ~ Muscat ~ Khemosabi ~ Reaching Nirvana
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Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
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2015
is year will be my fourth time. Western Pleasure Open
I was involved six years before competing at my rst U.S. Nationals. I started show ing with AHA in 2015 at 14 years old, and have been showing ever since. I worked the two years of U.S. Nationals prior to being 19 & over, which then was my rst year showing in Tulsa!
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
My horse and I are like best friends; it de nitely makes showing more enjoyable with him there.
I typically don’t look at my patterns until the day of, which helps to keep the nerves away, and not overthink the small stu . For me personally, the more warm-up I have, the more nervous I get.
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Driving my childhood Arabian stallion Count Franchesco (nickname “Bobby”) through the corn elds of Su eld, CT.
Basically, I started in horses in 1970. A welch pony and soon a er my Arabian stallion. Both, I drove down the streets of my hometown. I showed an Arabian I had under saddle in 4-H shows as a child and bred several Half-Arabians when the national show horse registry started. I love to trail ride, show halter and just spend time with my horses.
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Prepare and work to get ready. It is always wonderful to do well, but regardless, it is the involvement that is true joy.
Work out for the running part ... school the horses prior. I feel fortunate to have good support in those that help me get ready.
Turbo JB ~ Diamond of Azra ~ Vitorio TO JJ Carissa ~ HVS Bella Valentina
Rachel Enns ~ Bridlewood FarmsI became involved in 1991.
I will have attended 20 a er this year’s show.
e most impactful moments have been how the Arabian horse unites family members, brings together friends, and enhances human connections. I feel blessed that my parents, Dale and Laurie, have always shared my love of horses. Anna Conway and I met as barnmates in 1999 and continue our amazing horse journey now as trainer and amateur at Bridlewood Farms. I am proud to have introduced my cousin’s two daughters, Ava and Clara Limberg, to horses, who have gone on to compete with Arabian rescue horses in barrel racing and gaming. My Goddaughter, Brooklyn Williams, came into my life as a result of Arabians.
I refuse to miss the two AHPA classes!
I competed at my rst Youth Nationals six years a er I became involved. My journey began from the ground up. Weekly riding lessons came rst, then leasing a horse, then owning, then competing at “schooling shows”, then Class A, then the regional level. Interestingly, I was strongly against ever showing at a horse show because I did not understand what it was and associated “a class” with school. A er my rst “schooling show” experience, however, complete and utter addiction began.
I like to groom my horse, give treats, and simply “hang out.” Walks, trail rides, and exploration of the grounds are my favorites. Being involved in the prep before, as well as the care a er a class allows me to develop a stronger relationship with him. e enjoyment of the show is immensely heightened for me the more time that I spend with him. Although the outcome of the class results may not change, my performances might be better because of our bond.
I prepare mentally by writing down detailed riding notes to try to remember when on my horse. I have found that the more prepared I am physically by exercising and watching what I eat, the more con dent I am in competing.
Applauz’s Fire+ ~ Dakota Sweet Pea ~ “Luna” Maybelline C.A.+// ~ Q.H. Desert Storm
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# of U.S. Nationals Attended
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2016
None, since I am still a Youth competitor.
De nitely storytelling my horseback riding adventures to friends at school and explaining the de ning characteristics that make me passionate about showing an Arabian horse.
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Show “Horse” Ritual
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
H/A Open Park!
I always spend time with my horses, whether in the stall or on horseback, giving them lots of attention and a ection. I’ve always found “talking” to my horses to be helpful in calming both of us down, and sometimes, I will sit down in the shavings (in the stall) and just be in my horse’s presence.
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1961
Probably around 40
Growing up in a family of six and all saddling up and riding together all weekend. Fun times!
Can’t say just one! I try to make it to every class my friends are showing in, but I really can’t miss the Open English and western, purebred and Half-Arabian. ey are all so beautiful and exciting, and, of course, I’m always cheering on Gordon!
Journey To First USN Competition
I got my rst pony when 1 was 2 years old, Tippy Toes. My family got into Arabians in 1961 when they bought their rst one (of many!) from Ivan Rowe, Rocking R Ranch. Stan and I bought our rst horse together in 1988 from Arabians, Ltd. and then bought Amy’s Delight through Gordon in 1990. It’s been a great ride!
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My family and I had Half- Arabians when I was 4 years old. Since then, I have continually owned purebred or partbred Arabians.
I have attended almost every year since 1987, when I earned a top ten in side saddle.
I had an Arabian mare who could stay calm and think her way through challenging situations. One example was when she got bogged down to her chest in a muddy creek crossing while I was riding with a small child on the saddle in front of me. She stayed still until the little girl and I could crawl o over her neck to the shore. She was an Abu Farwa granddaughter on one side and a Bay Abi granddaughter on the other.
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
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Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Open Park classes are so thrilling.
My family always had horses. I gravitated to Arabians at an early age. In addition to showing them, we used them for week-long camping trips and shorter trail rides.
I ride as o en as possible, usually at least four days per week. Taking walks around our 40-acre farm also helps me condition myself!
Second Editions Debut ~ the others would be old Crabbet breeding or more recently,
spring.
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We purchased our rst Arabian in 2000. My husband and I didn’t start riding until I was 40 and he was 60.
I think we went to watch our rst U.S. Nationals in Albuquerque in 2000. We didn’t compete until maybe 2007.
My husband and I have been very involved in supporting and raising funds for the Arabian Horsemen’s Distress Fund for the past 10 years. ere are countless stories and examples of how our horses have done so much for so many.
I always dreamed of riding in a country or English pleasure class. Needless to say, it has been a long journey and there have been many challenges along the way. I have ridden hunter, western and country pleasure. is year I am excited to show my purebred country pleasure mare, HS Shes A Shocker, and my Half-Arabian western pleasure gelding, Roccocello, who we bred.
My country pleasure mare is with Vicki Humphrey Training Center. is is my rst year riding with VHTC, so I will basically do what Jesse tells me to do. I trust their judgement, so I am looking forward to Nationals. My western horse is with Shamrock Farms and Joe Reser, and I can’t wait to experience Nationals with them as well.
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
I try to get as physically t as I can. In July I broke my kneecap, so I had a little setback. I have been swimming and walking and working on getting strength in my legs back equally. Mentally, I try to focus on just me and my horse and tune everything else out.
I would want those Arabian horses that I have owned and who have passed away to be there … Prescott ~ Rock Em All ~ SL ee Phoenix ~ and one that is still living but retired, MC Picasso
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# of U.S. Nationals Attended
I started riding Arabians when I was 12 but I did not compete at Youth Nationals until 2015, when I was 16.
I rst attended U.S. Nationals back in 2015, as I was part of the Region 1 Youth Judging Team, and then from 2016-2018, I attended as a spectator to watch my horses show in the open classes with my trainer Jonathan Ramsay. I competed at my rst U.S. Nationals in 2019 and now this will be my fourth year competing.
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
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Watching and helping our rst baby being born on our farm. ere was something so beautiful about it and it just made me realize just how amazing and strong horses are.
Half-Arabian English Pleasure Open. I love the energy and excitement in that class!
I had been riding and taking lessons for about a year before I started leasing my rst Arabian horse. I showed her at local shows until I was eventually ready to move up and get my rst o cial horse. A er that, I moved to Stachowski Farms in 2014 and started to show at bigger shows until I won my rst national championship with my new horse DA Avant Gaurdian in Arabian English Show Hack 14-17. I then continued to show until 2019 when I attended my rst U.S. Nationals with the same horse that carried me to my rst national title in 2015. Now, four years later I am still competing, and my family and I are getting into breeding and have three babies coming next year. I feel so lucky to be part of such an amazing industry!
Show “Horse” Ritual
My horses live on my property with me, so I am very fortunate that I get to see them and spend time with them every day. For me, the shows are no di erent. I am just as involved with them at the show as I am with them at home. At the shows I am constantly going in their stalls to give them love and treats, and make sure that they are happy and healthy! is a ects the enjoyment and the outcome of the show, as no matter what happens in the show ring, I just feel so grateful to be their person. ey always try their best in the show ring, so it is my job to make sure that they get the love and attention that they deserve.
Mental & Physical Preparedness
I physically prepare for competition by not only riding my own show horses, but riding lesson horses on which I can work on bettering myself for my show horses. I also like to work out 4-5 days a week doing either cardio to build my stamina or strength/ core workouts.
2019 None
We have owned Arabian horses for three years. Maria is a junior rider and began her journey on a Half-Arabian named Ladybug. She started showing in western, ranch, trail, and showmanship in open breed shows with her Half-Arabian. Maria now competes only in the Arabian circuit in western pleasure and showmanship, and will be expanding her class lineup to include English pleasure and hunter pleasure. is is our rst year at U.S. Nationals. We will be cheering on Gianni CR, our junior western pleasure horse and Josh Quintus, Gianni’s trainer and Maria’s coach.
We are here to support and cheer on the Colonial Wood team and our horse Gianni. We have the easy job.
Versace ~ S Justadream (Gianni’s parents) ~ more full siblings
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Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
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Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
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1991 15
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Show “Horse” Ritual
My rst time attending U.S. Nationals probably was the most impactful. I loved the entire experience, being able to watch beautiful Arabian horses and making lifelong friends in the process!
Country English Pleasure … Arabian or Half-Arabian … I enjoy watching both!
I had been involved in the industry for about a year before attending my rst U.S. Nationals in 1992. We bought our rst Arabian show horse in late 1990 when I was 10 years old, and I won my rst saddle seat equitation medal in 1992. I was then able to show at my rst U.S. Nationals in 1992.
roughout the week of a large show, I feel that I get more one-on-one bonding time with my horse. I get the opportunity to be in the saddle more and I think it strengthens my bond with my horse. I also like that time a er my class with my horse giving him treats and love, no matter what type of class we had. I am at the show to be there with my horse (and horse show family and friends!) and that extended time I get with him just adds to my enjoyment of being at the show!
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
I do more mental preparation than anything else before competing at Nationals. I want to be able to focus on what my goals are, work with my horse and my trainer to be able to accomplish those goals, no matter the outcome of my classes. A busy work life keeps me active, but I probably need to do more physical preparation before Nationals!
A re Bey V ~ Khemosabi ~ Huckleberry Bey ~ Barbary ~ Bask
Maria & eresa Letellier ~ Colonial Wood Training Center2000
Only one in 2008.
Half-Arabian Costume and Half-Arabian Park
I started riding in 1995 at a great community Arabian barn that introduced us to 4-H and AllBreed shows, and my journey grew all the way to my rst Youth Nationals in 2002.
Our show horses are athletes! I think it is so important the week of the show that they are comfortable and spoiled. Happy horses give their best e ort, which makes for a great horse show!
Lots of cardio. Picturing the ride I want to have, all the way around the ring, both directions.
Apollopalooza ~ Great under RA DarkTown Strutter Girl Crush ~ Hello Kitty
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2019
I’ve attended two … my rst was as a spectator in 2020, and my second was as a competitor in 2021. e most impactful moments I have been part of were shared with my trainer, Kayleigh. She has been an unwavering pillar of support in my equestrian journey, both in and out of the show ring, and I owe much of my success to her.
I love watching any Park class! Aside from the fancy out ts, I love the high energy horses that trot through the in-gate.
I had only been involved in the industry for one year before I attended my rst U.S. Nationals. Kayleigh recommended that my mom and I go as spectators to make sure we want to fully commit to this lifestyle. What started as a quarantine hobby for my mom and I, quickly turned into something more serious a er experiencing the journey leading up to U.S. Nationals. In 2020, my newly purchased Arabian horse and I competed in our rst U.S. Nationals and then I was hooked.
I try my very best to keep our energies high, mindset positive, and heart healthy right from the beginning until the very end of a horse show. Every practice ride and every class are a learning opportunity for the both of us, so I really try to push our limits to make every ride better than the last. I always remind myself that I am blessed to have this opportunity and can only go as far as my horse will take me.
My family and friends are my cheerleaders throughout this adventure, which keeps me mentally in check. My mom has not missed a single horse show and my family and friends watch the livestream in America and Italy. I also have my sister, who is an ER doctor, making sure I am keeping up with my daily workouts to keep me in tip-top shape! e rst three are for horses we own RD Beyonni ~ A res Starlin ~ Midnight Sun REH ~ my 2-year-old colt’s famous sire Prosuasion ~ SF A ershoc (because he deserves it)
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I started riding Arabians when I was four years old in Utah and competed at Youth Nationals for the rst time in 2010.
is will be my third time competing.
Competing in the HA/AA Western Ladies Side Saddle Open on my horse OSO Smokin in honor of my late trainer Vickey Bowman. As I was taking my victory lap, the announcer said some kind words about her to the crowd and everyone had a mutual understanding of how much the win and the ride meant to me. It was incredibly special.
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
I refuse to miss the Arabian and H/A English classes.
I was always a kid who loved horses from the beginning, although no one in my family rode or owned horses. I begged my parents for lessons and “ nally”, when
I was four, they found a trainer that was willing to teach a small child. is trainer happened to ride Arabians and the rest is history.
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
e rst thing I do when I get to a show is to nd my horses and say hello, regardless if it is Nationals or a local show. I think having that bond is important and it is something that other horse riders can relate to as well.
Overall, I try to stay as calm as possible and think about everything we have practiced up to that point, and remind myself to have fun. Aside from being competitive, I am just happy to be riding. Also, try to stop sizing everyone up in the warm-up pen!
I have been involved with Arabians and Half-Arabians all my life. My mom will say it’s truly “in my blood” as she rode with me in utero until she was about 7 months pregnant and could no longer t in the saddle! I bred and foaled out my very rst foal crop in 2020, and breed a select handful of foals each year, because as a small breeder, I’d rather see a small group of remarkable babies each year. I now own three stallions, all with very di erent bloodlines from one another.
e past seven years, mostly competing.
I will NEVER miss a Costume or Park class.
I’ve been riding Arabians since I was 18 months old but didn’t get to my rst Youth Nationals until I was 16 and won my very rst National Championship in the Arabian Costume. My rst U.S. Nationals was in 2015 and we came home with a handful of top tens. From there, it seems like each year the horses, myself, and our success get better and better. 2019 is when I purchased Fire And Goldd and everything really took o for us when it came to breeding.
I stay rather close to the stalls and the horses during the week in-between seeing friends and watching classes. I enjoy getting to spend close, one-on-one time with them in their stall, laying down, or sharing treats (donuts). I consider myself extremely lucky to have my horses in such a close proximity to where I live as they are only about 25 minutes away, so the horses and I have a very close connection. Going to the shows is simply the cherry on top for the hard work that is shared amongst us. It’s really a time I admire them, love them, and reward them the most.
Research lineage, look into progeny, and what crosses would work best with your stallion and mare. Sometimes other’s might not see what you see initially in a horse, but always be patient and keep an open mind, stay open to help and advice from others—some of my best surprises have come from just giving it time, and there is always something new to learn! Advice from a very good friend who worked closely with the great Shelia Varian … “Breed what YOU want to see in the show pen.”
In no particular order … Hucklebey Berry+ ~ Brassmis SA Sophisticated Lady ~ Fame VF+ ~ Millennium LOA ~ Krewe
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All since 1976.
Meeting Mike Nichols, Don DeLongpre and Richard Petty in 1982. ey o ered me a job to move to Santa Barbara and work at Nichols DeLongpre. It forever changed my life. I learned formative lessons, met amazing people, and was around some of the most beautiful Arabians—experiences that prepared me for my future. I was just a 17-year-old boy from Greenwood, SC that looks back and remembers how lucky I was.
I bought my rst horse in 1972. I mowed lawns to buy a horse from the classi ed ads in the local paper. He was a Racking Horse which I had no idea what that was, however, he was only $250, including western saddle and bridle. ey were very confused what division to put me in a few weeks later at 4-H camp. I loved him so much, even though we didn’t quite t in any particular discipline.
My favorite moments are being with the horses and Arabian people … so many wonderful memories and times through the years. Arabian horses have been an incredible in uence in my life. When I feel the chill in the fall air, Nationals is coming!
At my age, you just do the best you can and stay positive!
Sa re ~ Stemar’s Windsong ~ Dusty ~ Proper English ~ Oh My Martini ~ and my extra, Saved By e Bell
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2002 was my rst Arabian show with my Half-Arabian Egyptian mare, Desert Matara. We showed hunter and it was quite the experience a er having been in reining training for 1.5 years. When the hand gallop to the halt was called, I almost went over the handlebars with her reining stop in a hunter saddle! Such great memories with showing Arabians!
I watched a couple of years, then started competing since 2005.
Susan and Chad Chance are friends of ours and when the entire Arabian community supported them (and continues to support them) a er losing their daughter, Vail, it was the most impactful aspect of this community that I had witnessed. And they continue to give back with the Foundation in her honor. Simply amazing!
Park Open nals—there’s nothing like the adrenaline rush when watching that class!
I purchased my rst Arabian from a backyard breeder and friend in 2001. We owned Quarter Horses and Paints at the time, and it was only a few years later that I competed at U.S. Nationals. I fell in love with the breed, the competition, and the great people!
I always look forward to Nationals for many reasons, but the biggest reason is the ability to spend more time with my horses than I am a orded the rest of the year. I get to ride them every day, pet their noses, feed them carrots and watch up close how they are feeling physically and mentally throughout the competition. I am always sad to go home because I love their smell and touch and I miss it terribly for days. e wins are fun, but it’s the time with them that means the most.
Well, like most of us girls, I go on the U.S. Nationals diet, which includes some fasting and juicing. It makes eating even more fun a er the classes are over! I have always enjoyed working out, but I ramp it up a little before and during the competition. You may even see me outside our RV with a Camp Gladiator mat and video going! Mentally, I use a lot of visualization. I ride my class before I go in my mind, and of course, it is a stellar ride, ha! I try to remind myself that I’ll just ride what I have that day. Sometimes our horses feel better than other times, and it’s just part of managing the partnership.
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
I am always moved watching a foal being born. I also love retiring a s how horse to our pasture and seeing them be greeted by the other horses.
Any open English class!
I got my rst horse, Azlaf Minnie, when I was 11 years old. I rode her locally and at regionals in western pleasure. We had “Minnie” until she passed away at 33 years old. A er college, while I was teaching high school, I got back into showing Arabians. rough the years we have gotten more and more involved and have a small horse farm in Minnesota. I also love that my daughter shows horses too!
I enjoy watching my horses being worked and taking lessons. I also love spending time with them in their stall and taking them for walks. And, of course, giving them carrots and apples!
I do a lot of yoga, dance classes and Pilates.
Second Editions Debut ~ Apollopalooza
Huckleberry Bey … are de nitely at the top of the list.
1987 33
e Cedar Ridge sale when Baske A re sold for a record amount of money.
I got my rst horse, a Half-Arabian mare, for my 8th birthday, and my very rst U.S. Nationals was 1988, when I was 13 years old and showed in Stock Seat Equitation 17 & Under in Louisville.
It di ers from show to show, but when I am showing them myself, I guess I tend to frequently stop by and give the horses some attention in their stalls. My daughter always drags me to their stalls when she is showing so that I can love on them with her.
I work out almost every day to stay t and strong. I pray a lot before my classes, asking for safety and wisdom, and most of all … joy!
Watching my beautiful 17-year-old Half-Arabian Deven enjoy another show. She had a lot to say. What a wise and amazing mare.
Now, my reiners, and the Arabian English Open … woooiohokooo!!!
I started late I. Life and needing a new passion, new people and horses more than lled that need.
ey get as much love and attention as they would get any day. Probably even more love at shows.
Prayers. Making sure to enjoy and keep a good sense of humor. Don’t take anything personal. Have fun and know we are so blessed to be in this sport.
Kappa ~ Hennessey ~ A iction ~ Eddie ~ Cookie
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
2013
I have been to three but have never shown. is is my rst year showing out of Youth Nationals.
A friend of our family, who is also involved with Arabian horses, rode our horse Ambres Magic++ down the aisle for her wedding.
I have been riding since I was 6, but only became involved with Arabian horses since 2013. I took lessons for a number of years and got to show at my rst Youth Nationals in 2018 with my boy, As Good As Gold+. My years as a youth rider were a lot of fun but I’m very excited to show my mare MM La Cajeta this year. I have owned her since she was a yearling and have loved watching her grow.
Show “Horse” Ritual
Mental & Physical Preparedness
I love longer shows; they are my vacation. Getting to see the di erent classes and enjoy the shopping centers is a lot of fun. I also greatly enjoy getting to see and spend time with my barn family.
I have horses at home and work with them almost daily, so I’m never out of riding practice. Otherwise, I’m a college student, and mentally, I’m always very excited to go to a horse show.
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Davinci Re ection WA ~ Caliente Virtuoso ~ WGA Rokhan Delacroixx ~ Marwan Al Shaqab
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
I became involved in the industry in 2011 when I was nine years old.
I have attended two. I went to watch the show/shop for a horse in 2019, and I competed for the rst time in 2021.
I have to say whenever I see people walk around horse shows or barns meeting Arabian horses for the rst time. It is always so cool to see a bunch of little kids getting to meet the horses and ex plaining what disciplines they are a part of and fun facts about them.
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
I refuse to miss the H/A Park classes at any show I attend or watch online. e atmosphere is always electric and the horses are always insanely talented.
I got my rst Arabian horse when I was six years old, and a few years later we ended up getting a horse that turned out to be a purebred English saddle seat horse. A er that, I was hooked and continued to own, show and ride Arabians. I showed at Youth Nationals for the rst time in 2012 up until I aged out in 2020. en I began showing at U.S. Nationals the following year.
Show “Horse” Ritual
With U.S. Nationals taking place during school, I am not able to spend as much time with my horses or watch as many classes in person as I was able to at Youth. is reduces my involvement with the horses a little bit. However, I come to the showgrounds every day and stay for as long as possible to watch, practice, show, or just hang out with my horses in general. e more time that I get to spend with my horses and people during the show is what I enjoy the most.
Mental & Physical Preparedness
I mentally prepare for competition by taking some deep breaths and trying to keep myself calm. I tend to get nervous before showing so I do my best to try and alleviate that. I physically prepare for competition by practicing on the horses and working out so I can be strong and t when I ride. Showing two horses in multiple disciplines, especially show hack, can drain my energy, so being focused and ready from a strength and cardio standpoint is really important.
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
A re Bey V ~ Huckleberry Bey ~ Marwan Al Shaqab (all three super important to the evolution of the breed ~ Halsteads Deven (an amazing mare) ~ Inception (because he is so fun to watch show and he throws some pretty stunning babies)
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
I would say I was born into the Arabian horse industry, so 1997.
I’ve only missed U.S. Nationals a few times in my life, but this will be my seventh year competing.
e AEPA futurity classes.
Being a trainer’s kid, I was very fortunate to grow up in this industry.
I competed in my rst Youth Nationals when I was 7 years old and have been hooked ever since. I have been involved in my parents breeding program since I was in high school and have found this to be one of my biggest passions.
Show “Horse” Ritual
I am very involved behind the scenes at RTS, helping with entries, the setup, groceries, and other “little things” that pile up at a show of this size. For me, that is one of the reasons U.S. is my favorite show of the year. It has given me an appreciation for what goes into putting each horse and rider in the ring.
My relationship with my horses is di erent for each one, although I quickly become attached to every horse I work with. If a horse isn’t a “pet” when I meet them, I’ll make them one!
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Riding as many di erent horses as I can. Even now that I am an adult amateur, I still nd value in riding lesson horses.
Apollopalooza ~ Sal Mineo BF ~ Heirs Noble Love ~ and my heart horses CSP Whos Your Daddy ~ GSF Ambienze
# of U.S. Nationals
Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class Journey To First USN Competition
I rode my brother-in-law’s Arabian stallion in costume in 1985, purchased my rst Arabian in 1990, and began showing seriously in 2000.
Almost 20 years now.
under (the Broncos mascot) and Ann Judge have reached the largest audience and have done a beautiful job representing all horses. Watching people with disabilities in the show ring is pretty cool, too.
Love our English horses! Other breeds have no idea what they are missing!
My mom was Prescott Rodeo Queen in 1948 and we have always had good horses. I competed in Little Britches and High School Rodeo and completed 10 years in 4-H. We also showed and bred Quarter Horses and Paints. I did not compete much during and a er college for several years before I could a ord a horse again.
Show “Horse” Ritual
e English horses are ready to step on and that’s how Jessica Clinton likes it. e working western horses are di erent; I saddle and warm-up my horses most of the time. It helps that I spend several days a week training with Jim Hitt. Actually, it’s pretty funny to watch us put Jim on horse a er horse and send him into the open trail class. at way we only have to remember our pattern!
Mental & Physical Preparedness
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
ere is no substitute for hard work and practice.
Ronteza ~ Apollopalooza~ Bask ~ Khemosabi
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
1981 25+
About four years. I was 13 when I got my rst Arabian, a Half-Arabian mare that I broke, trained and sold a er a few years. My next horse was my rst purebred, but shortly a er the purchase, he broke a bone in his foot and was unable to be ridden for a year. is led to the opportunity to purchase my heart horse, still my all-time favorite horse to this day. “Red” took me to my rst nationals where we competed in English pleasure and saddle seat equitation.
Show “Horse” Ritual
In addition to practice rides and showing, I visit with my horse every day, giving treats and pets. I love spending time with them outside of riding, and cherish the bonds that we have. It brightens my day to see them come to the front of the stall with ears forward whenever they see me.
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Penitent ~ Second Editions Debut ~ Indian Flash
I’ve only missed a couple since 2005. I started competing here in 2016.
Taking my nephew, James, on his rst ride tops the list. He rode with me aboard Supernatural PR (“Scotty”). ere is nothing better than being there as a little one takes their rst steps in a saddle!
H/A Ranch Riding AATR, to watch my best friend Ti any Kurth. And you will also always nd me in the front row of the Arabian Western Open.
We bought a Half-Arabian gelding named Malibu Sunset M from Cindy Beck in 2001, and he started our journey showing Arabian horses. My mom and I hauled “Sunny” to any horse show within a three-hour radius. My mom showed him in hunter, western, sport horse, halter and trail, and I showed him for the rst time in showmanship when I was 10 and he was ve. Both Mom and I started actively showing at the regional and national level in 2005 with Sunny. Seventeen years and a few more horses later, here we still are!
It’s a balance of a lot of things. Our horses are family rst and team members second. So, it’s our main priority that we wholeheartedly trust who we leave them in care with. is is important because they are athletes and need people more experienced than me helping to make the best deci sions on their behalf. To prepare to compete, I like to get a practice ride or two in before my rst class. en, we just have fun and try to make each other proud. e older I get, the more I recognize the blessing our horses are. At a show like U.S. Nationals, I do my best in the arena, focus on the joy my horses bring, and have a blast with the amazing people here doing the same thing! e rest is gravy.
Mentally, I do my best to stay calm and know that my horse and I are plenty capable of doing what will be asked of us in the arena. Physically, I love to run. It’s my favorite form of exercise.
I would work out a system with the big man upstairs to borrow ve of my horses who have passed away at a time. He’s got some four-legged friends I really miss in horse Heaven!
Joined e Industry
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful Arabian-Related Moment Out Of e Show Ring
Favorite Can’t Miss Un-Related Class
Journey To First USN Competition
Show “Horse” Ritual
1987 2-4 typically
Too many to count. :)
As a veterinarian, I love genetics, of course. And reproduction is my passion, so I have loved combining the two and trying to produce national champions.
Study pedigrees, especially the dam lines, which are so important, and realize that not every breeding produces what you expect.
Don’t put all horses in the same box. Most of them have their niche, you just have to know how to nd it.
I have two Folsom daughters, Agavia SA and Hot Cheque SA, who are just entering the training barn and show ring. I am expecting huge things from them!
Heritage Montoya ~ my own mare, Willette, Folsom’s dam Tribeca (by Tri en) who will soon be an Aristocrat Mare
A re Bey V ~ Cognac
Started Breeding # Of Foals Bred/Year
# Of U.S. Nationals Attended Breeder In uence
Advice To First-Time Breeders
Best Advice Received
My Next Big Star
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Started Breeding
# Of Foals Bred/Year
# Of U.S. Nationals Attended Breeder In uence
I have been breeding to some degree for 55 years.
I started breeding seriously about 15 years ago.
4 to 12
Approximately 30
I couldn’t a ord to buy outright the kind of show horse I wanted, so I decided to try breeding some.
A er several years of breeding, I decided I wanted to try a di erent approach to breeding show horses.
I wanted to develop a program that was open ended and had a future for the English division.
Advice To First-Time Breeders
Best Advice Received
My Next Big Star
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Talk to someone like me.
It’s all about the mares.
Well, we have an outstanding group of young ones coming. I laugh and say there is an explosion at Wiloma. We do have a weanling colt by WP Corporate Image that we will name WP Iconic. He’s going to be an amazing English horse.
How about 6 … WP Iconic ~ WP Corporate Image ~ Oran Van Crabbet ~ Bask ~ Comet ~ Barbary
# Of Foals Bred/Year
Herder Arabians o cially started in 1997, however, Kristin’s family has bred Arabians since the 1970’s.
Our last foal, MKH Lil Onyx Enya (Onyx A x Enya SF), was born in 2018. She is competing this year with Tommy Garland in the AWPA Western Pleasure Futurity. In prior years we bred one to three foals per year.
# Of U.S. Nationals Attended Breeder In uence
Advice To First-Time Breeders
10
Kristin grew up in it. Matt fell in love with the babies and preserving foundation bloodlines. Herder Arabians focused on Spanish bloodlines for many years.
Don’t be a fad breeder. Research bloodlines two and three generations back … or more. Don’t breed extremes; nd horses that complement and build on each other. Talk to every great breeder you can and formulate your best plan. Breed for what you love, what drew you into Arabians in the rst place.
Best Advice Received
My Next Big Star
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Make sure you are having fun.
MKH Lil Onyx Enya. As a 2-year-old, she was Scottsdale Arabian SHIH Supreme Champion. As a 3-year-old, she was National Champion SHIH AOTH and Reserve JTH. We have great hopes for her western pleasure debut with Tommy Garland.
*Sera x ~ *Sidi-Brahim ~ Witez II ~ Fadjur ~ Magnum Psyche
Jeremy’s family in 1985, Chelsea’s family in 2000.
5-10
Jeremy since 1986, Chelsea since 1998. e ability to positively in uence the future of the breed and to create amazing memories for families with their horses.
Spend time with the top breeders in the divisions you are interested in breeding in. Pick their brains to understand their philosophies so you can develop a detailed breeding strategy that will carry you into multiple generations of breeding and not just follow the current trends.
Our top two pieces of advice have come from some breeding giants.
From the late Irwin Schimmel, “Focus your program on a speci c direction/division. It is di cult to be successful breeding multiple directions ever single year.”
From Larry Jerome, “Make sure you are doing your homework on crosses and understanding which have been successful and which haven’t. Breed for proven success, not trends.”
Both great men have instilled in us the paramount importance of having great mares in your pasture. Although, stallions are important, the mares are what will carry your success through generations.
Redemption HA
Bask ~ Little Liza Fame ~ One Bright Starr HA ~ Mac Baske ~ HBB
# Of Foals Bred/Year
# Of U.S. Nationals Attended Breeder In uence
Advice To First-Time Breeders
Best Advice Received
My Next Big Star
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Started Breeding
# Of Foals Bred/Year
# Of U.S. Nationals Attended
Advice To First-Time Breeders
My Next Big Star
1988 7-10
Too many to remember but probably the mid 80’s.
You need patience! It is a process that takes time, e ort and resources.
We are very excited about many of our horses, but DA Jivago is emerging as a stallion that gets it done in the ring and in the breeding shed.
Started Breeding
# Of Foals Bred/Year
# Of U.S. Nationals Attended Breeder In uence
Advice To First-Time Breeders
Best Advice Received My Next Big Star
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
1975 2-3 Seven
Leland & Esther May Mekeel, MHR-Mekeel Horse Ranch
Seek out successful breeders you admire for guidance, read and study pedigrees and horses. Learn equine anatomy and standards of the breed.
Quality over quantity!
Successhun, a purebred lly we bred by QR Marc and out of Natalee TO.
*Bask ~ Marwan Al Shaqab ~ Ericka Precious As Gold ~ Sundance Kid V ~ Khadraj NA
Stacy Sachen ~ Anivia Equine, LLCI started breeding Arabians in 2016, with two embryo purchases.
On average I have 2-4 Arabian foals a year.
I rst attended the Arabian Nationals in Louisville in 1979, and have recently gone to four consecutive U.S. Nationals.
I enjoy the mixture of art and science in breeding. You have to be able to imagine your ideal and then gure out how to bring the pieces together.
Study, study, study. Watch the classes, listen to the pedigrees, and look for those traits that dominate the speci c bloodlines.
Always keep the rst lly of your best mare if you want to be a top breeder, and judge your own horses the hardest of all.
I am excited to have Andre AN back competing at Nationals as a 2-year-old this year. We also have the rst crop of Garavani AN foals on the ground and I am especially excited about a lly out of Andre’s dam, DM Versacianna and Gara vani AN, who we will be showing in Scottsdale in 2023.
Valentino
# Of Foals Bred/Year
# Of U.S. Nationals Attended
Breeder In uence
Advice To First-Time Breeders
Best Advice Received
My Next Big Star
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
In 1983 when my family and I rst got involved as Twin Creek Arabians in 1980. I bowed out of the industry in 2006 with no plan to return, but that allchanged in 2014. I was purchasing other breeders’ foals until I bred to Exxalt in 2018.
I do not breed every year as not owning my own farm makes that an easy decision. But it also keeps me extremely focused on the pedigrees because when I do breed, it is not my goal to produce a foal for someone else; but one of the highest quality for myself.
My horses have competed at 11 U.S. Nationals.
Howie Kale, Jr., and my Daddy. He and I so enjoyed the birth of the foals and then watching them grow into amazing adults. Most of my breeding happened between 1983 and 2000, but now that I have returned to this lovely world of ownership, I hope to enjoy a bit more breeding every couple of years.
Research. Research the horses 4-5 generations back in every horse’s pedigree, including nding on the internet a vast amount of photos of the horses in your mare’s pedigree. Learn what you are looking for regarding conformation and then study the photos to see what you want to try and duplicate, and what you hope you can improve upon in your mare; but remember that horses 4-5 generations back can in uence your foal.
Do this for the love of the breed and don’t expect to make millions doing it. Also, despite what reproduction vets are taught which is that 50% of the foal is in uenced by the stallion and 50% by the mare, a higher percentage is really in uenced by the dam. So, make sure you own the quality you want to improve upon. en you will be successful when you decide you don’t want to sell that lovely foal.
A foal out of Marcelina INZ (*Marajj x *Satin Doll GA) by Dominic M for a 2024 foal.
*Muscat ~ Bey Serenade ~ *Padron ~ Estopa ~ Versace
A Horseman
e rst U.S. nationals I attended was in 1979. My horse training idol was Gene LaCroix and this was going to be the rst opportunity for me to observe him and Lasma competing at the highest level. I was mesmerized at how their horses were trained and prepared that year at Nationals. I stayed up all night each evening to watch them school and snuck in the barns to watch the grooms take care of each horse. A er watching Gene lead Aladdinn to U.S. National Champion Stallion and watching him make his victory pass in the Park Championship on Ambra, I made a conscious decision then and there, that I would nd my way to Lasma to learn from the best. Within a year I was employed as an assistant trainer and had the great fortune to be mentored by both Gene and Ray LaCroix.
A true horseman is one that takes into account every facet of a horse’s care and preparation. It’s the things you do behind the scenes that count the most, when no one is watching and the spotlight isn’t on.
Over the years there have been many wonderful horsemen that I’ve turned to for advice and input. As time passes, there is one who consistently comes to mind due to his exceptional horsemanship, and unconditional friendship who I know will always speak the truth, Brian Murch.
If I had the opportunity to ll one stall that represents the most signi cant contributor to the Arabian show horse in North America, that stall would be reserved for the legendary, *Bask. To this day, when inspecting the pedigrees of the national winners, you will almost always nd at least one cross to *Bask.
2013
Not sure … 12?
Caralyn Schroter winning the Arabian Hunter Pleasure Jr. Horse with PA Lucchese Always. I loved that horse.
Don’t self-eliminate … go clean.
Having a love for the animal rst, knowing how to be e ective but fair, and always being open to better one’s self by learning from others and improving one’s skills.
Caralyn Schroter or Rob Bick. I started riding with them when I was eleven. e experience and knowledge I’ve gained and learned from them both over the years is invaluable. ey’re two of the greats.
Something with my Psychology degree. I would have gone on to grad school and then worked as a family psychiatrist in some capacity.
Khemosabi ~ Sundance Kid V ~ Hucklebey Berry NDL Pericles ~ PA Lucchese Always
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful USN Moment
2022 USN Mantra
A Horseman Is …
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
Fantasy FiveStall Fillers
Started Training
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful USN Moment
2022 USN Mantra
1985 with Sweet Home Arabians in Olympia, WA
I have attended 35 plus U.S. Nationals.
In 1983, the spectacular performance of Scarlet Lace winning the Park class!
2022 U.S. Nationals is a new beginning for My Way Ranch LLC and our exclusive circle of clients! We plan to deliver the love, vision, and passion we all share for this wonderful breed!
A Horseman Is …
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
A horseman is NOT a trainer. A horseman is a constant, vigilant seeker of the perfect ride. Balanced between love and passion for the Arabian horse. A horseman is a true steward of the horses in his/her care from start to nish. A true horseman considers all facets of the environment, intrinsic detail, and the overall health and wellness of the animal.
My wife, Lisa Mo att. She is my muse and other half.
I have created vast versatility with my talents. I recreated myself in 2012 with Mo att Photography & Design. I have been privileged to photograph some of the most beautiful horses around the globe.
Scarlet Lace ~ MHR Nobility ~ DA Valentino ~ High Jack ~ Orans Adagio
Started Training
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful USN Moment
A Horseman Is …
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
2019
is will be my ninth year!
Winning two national championships with Lord Have Mercy+// in 2018. ose wins gave me the con dence to pursue my dreams of being a trainer!
Doug and Kristi Stewart. ey go above and beyond for the horses and are great advocates for all the horses in their care. ey always gure out how to make the horse feel and look it’s best.
My best friend Elise Graves. She always knows what to say.
A biologist.
Started Training
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful USN Moment
2022 USN Mantra
A Horseman Is …
2008 25
Winning my rst National Champion and it was unanimous. It was a dream come true!
Enjoy my horses and clients, and hope that success follows.
Caring for the horse in every aspect. Whether it be training, vet, farrier, or diet, it all matters so much. Every horse it di erent and they need to be treated as individuals. Cynthia Burkman epitomizes horsemanship in my opinion.
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Gail Lundquist, she’s my best friend and a great horsewoman. She always has great advice, and it settles me.
Police O cer
12
I think it was last year being stalled in the Sagenet with a lot of trainers I look up to. Working day in and day out among that crowd, I realized that everyone is there just trying to do their very best. It’s pretty cool to see so many people focusing on their cra at the height of the season while being so supportive of their peers.
Enjoy the horses.
Someone who is consumed by the horses themselves and what is in the best interest of them.
Anna. She is capable of seeing a whole di erent set of things than what my mind typically goes to. O en, the di erent perspective can shine a whole new light on a situation and create an entirely new set of possibilities for change or improvement. I am so incredibly lucky to have someone who can do that and push me to look through a di erent lens. Each day I learn something new from her and I am better for it.
Probably an accountant.
For this one I have to refer to my youth rider self, there were so many horses I fell in love with in those years. To many of them I feel I owe my passion for training horses today.
Khaja J ~ Lightnin Strikes ~ Belindaa ~
Started Training
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful USN Moment
2022 USN Mantra
A Horseman Is …
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
Started Training
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
2022 USN Mantra
A Horseman Is …
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
When I graduated high school in 2004, then I took some years o while having my children and began again in 2019!
22
Nature does not hurry. ~ Lao Tzu
Someone who understands horses mentally and physically and uses that knowledge to actively be a leader, partner, and advocate for their horses.
Lizzy, because she’s always there (unless she’s playing with Sawyer)!
Something in Special Education or Psychology.
*Bachantka ~ Barbary+++ ~ C A Hermoso
Assault N Battery ~ So Alert
Started Training
# of U.S. Nationals Attended
Most Impactful USN Moment
2022 USN Mantra
A Horseman Is …
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
1980 BC
Every one since 1977.
My rst National Championship in Western Pleasure on Zannsibar.
Mamba Mentality - Kobe Bryant
Someone who cares more about their horses and their well-being than themselves.
Ray LaCroix, Caralyn Schroter, Brett Becker and Bob Purtee. ese are my go-to people for horse-related advice.
Driving a truck or maybe a basketball coach.
Scarlett Lace ~ Orans Adagio ~ MHR Nobility ~ Adams Fire ~ FF Summer Storm
# of U.S. Nationals Attended Most Impactful USN Moment
2022 USN Mantra
Go-To For Advice/Input
Optional Career Choice
Fantasy Five-Stall Fillers
14
Winning the 2020 Yearling Filly Championship in 2020 with MD Massima.
God is in your hands.
My dad, Zeze Rodrigues.
Soccer player
DA Valentino ~ Padron ~ *Wieza Mocy
Donna Molta Bella SRA ~ RD Fabreanna
Ultimo+// (1995-2021)
Normington and lovingly owned Yochum, this beautiful chestnut Hermoso x Citation Of honored his trustees with the all-time most winningest horse with 41 National titles in Horse and Amateur/Youth Reserve and 20x Top Ten).
Sterling White was born in Tooele, Utah on August 2, 1935, to Alma Bish and Ida Adamson White. The fifth of six children, he graduated from Montello High School (Nevada) in 1953, married Clara Renee Westover (div. 1976) and began one of many careers, including a civil service position at Dugway Proving Ground, working on the field crew testing chemical weapons.
Ghazimoto was no stranger to the horse show world. Bred by esteemed breeder and trainer Michael Byatt, the bay Half-Arabian gelding (El Ghazi x Princess Greystone) was a 14x Regional Champion and Reserve winner, 2x Scottsdale Champion and 3x National Champion/Reserve in English Pleasure Open, AOTR/JOTR for multiple owners before finding his final resting place with Lian Oteiza in 2012.
A long-time lover of Arabian horses, Randy worked passionately to promote the breed for decades. Randy fought a long and valiant battle with cancer, passing peacefully on July 5th, with his wife, Leigh, by his side.
A long-time lover of Arabian horses, Randy worked passionately to promote the breed for decades. Randy fought a long and valiant battle with cancer, passing peacefully on July 5th, with his wife, Leigh, by his side.
Having trained and shown Arabians since the early 70s, Randy, a respected trainer among trainers in main ring halter and performance, with his wife ran Meyer Show Horses at Rhapsody in Blue Stables as a chief program consultant and farm and breeding manager.
Having trained and shown Arabians since the early 70s, Randy, a respected trainer among trainers in main ring halter and performance, with his wife ran Meyer Show Horses at Rhapsody in Blue Stables as a chief program consultant and farm and breeding manager.
A long-time lover of Arabian horses, Randy worked passionately to promote the breed for decades. Randy fought a long and valiant battle with cancer, passing peacefully on July 5th, with his wife, Leigh, by his side.
Bred by Priscilla Normington and lovingly owned by John and Sheryl Yochum, this beautiful chestnut gelding (C A Hermoso x Citation Of Merit) since 2000, honored his trustees with the well-earned title of all-time most winningest Hunter Pleasure horse with 41 National titles in Open, Junior Horse and Amateur/Youth (12x Champion/9x Reserve and 20x Top Ten).
“… my barn aisle will not be the same without you in them … those big, kind, loving expressive eyes. You are a legend and everyone who knew you loved you. I cherish my most memorable moments in the show ring with you. The energy you brought into the arena when you hit the gate was like no other … always one with the crowd. The true definition of a show horse. I love you big boy, rest easy.” ~ Lian
In his spare time, he trained horses—his passion. He was a natural and excelled in all aspects of training and showing. In 1970 he took a full-time job training and managing Takara Arabians in Aurora, Oregon.His rise in the Arabian horse world was meteoric, quickly winning trophies and ribbons at major Arabian horse shows and qualifying for the Nationals. Several years later, Sterling trained at and managed Gainey Arabians. He earned several U.S. and Canadian national championships and top tens. He fulfilled his dream of being a world-famous horse trainer, training and managing various ranches, became an international judge,and also had his own training stables. After suffering a heart attack at age 70, he reluctantly retired from the horse business in 2008.
Bred by Priscilla Normington and lovingly owned by John and Sheryl Yochum, this beautiful chestnut gelding (C A Hermoso x Citation Of Merit) since 2000, honored his trustees with the well-earned title of all-time most winningest Hunter Pleasure horse with 41 National titles in Open, Junior Horse and Amateur/Youth (12x Champion/9x Reserve and 20x Top Ten).
Having trained and shown Arabians since the early 70s, Randy, a respected trainer among trainers in main ring halter and performance, with his wife ran Meyer Show Horses at Rhapsody in Blue Stables as a chief program consultant and farm and breeding manager.
Bred by Priscilla Normington by John and Sheryl Yochum, gelding (C A Hermoso Merit) since 2000, honored well-earned title of Hunter Pleasure horse Open, Junior Horse (12x Champion/9x
Sterling was preceded in death by his father, mother, and all of his siblings, Marion Floyd (Floyd) White, Ellis Martin (Bud) White, Alma Jean Walters, Ida Delvona (Delvona) Warburton, and William Keith (Bill) White. He is survived by his four children, Mickey White (wife Kathy), Sherry Steadman, Vicki Averett (husband Rand), and Serenaty White; 11 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.
Former wives, Suzanne Perkins (1976-81), Diane Johnson (1984-98), former partner Leanne Finley.
MEDIA
Spirit Ranch is the physical manifestation of lifelong horsewoman Marti Moyes’ passion and creative outlook on life. More than an equestrian center or breeding farm, it is better described as an oasis, a place to enrich oneself and rejuvenate emotionally and in the physical realm. Located in Arizona’s Valley of the Sun, surrounded by the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, Spirit Ranch offers “premium horsemanship, passionate hospitality, and personal healing.”
While Marti was raised around horses, she is a relative newcomer to the Arabian breed. Her search for horse property in the Phoenix area led to the purchase of a facility that had a training operation in residence. Arrangements were made for the trainer to stay on, and Marti fell in love with one of the Arabian horses in the barn. The purchase of H Bella Bellezza H in February 2021 laid the first brick in the Spirit Ranch breeding program.
An elegant, typey daughter of Da Vinci FM, from the El Nabila B daughter, Sashaa LHT, Bella’s pedigree is a tapestry of carefully woven threads of classic bloodlines that encompass the globe. She has already impacted the breeding program with her splendid 2022 filly by 2016 World Champion EKS Alihandro.
“The filly, who we call Angel, is amazing,” says Marti. “From her smooth, elegant body to her perfectly dished face, we couldn’t be more pleased.”
Pictured: H Bella Bellezza H | Photos by Cat McKennaLater that year, Marti added Bint Bella Mazin GA, by the exotic JJ Bellagio and from the Egyptian-bred Bella Mazin, along with the Magnum Psyche daughter, Cassies Song, whose dam SR Cozette offered multiple lines to the immortal Bask. Cassie is the dam of the 2016 Youth National Reserve Champion Sport Horse JTH Mare, Karried Away SRU and five-time U.S. National Top Ten amateur Western Pleasure Khonfirmed CF.
In early 2022, Marti added the American-bred Desiree BHF (Denali BHF x Franchesca BHF), who was in foal to the fabulous Eden C, a triple-U.S. National Champion and a World Silver Champion. Desiree’s pedigree is an inspirational step back into the 80’s, with many crosses to Bey Shah anchored by the influx of Russian blood through Muscat and Nariadni. Bred to Eden C in the past, Desiree had already produced 2015 U.S. National Champion Hunter Pleasure Futurity and 2013 Top Ten Yearling Colt, Nicodemus PF, and the 2020 U.S. National Top Ten Futurity Filly, Nikita PF. It is no wonder that her 2022 colt has lived up to every expectation.
Another important part of Spirit Ranch are Marti’s two exceptional geldings, Agusto GA and Mystic Midnight
PF. Agusto won his class as a stallion in Scottsdale in 2020 and is a son of D Angelo and DD Crown Jewel, the 2007 U.S. National Reserve Champion Mare AAOTH. Mystic Midnight is by the phenomenal stallion Ever After NA and out of the prolific producer Mystic Rose BHF. She is also the dam of 2020 Youth and Mid Summer National Champion ABS Yearling Colt, Mystic Emerald PF, 2019 U.S. Reserve National Champion Mare AAOTH Mystic Dream WRR, 2013 U.S. Reserve National Champion Futurity Filly, Mystic Love WRR, and six other U.S. National Top Ten winners!
Marti Moyes clearly has an eye for quality in all that she holds close. And that includes the people who gravitate into the Spirit Ranch experience. Currently, Marti is in the process of earning the credentials that will allow her to grow her services to include Equine Therapy beginning next summer. To accomplish that goal, she is keeping an eye out for a larger property elsewhere in the Valley. Marti is confident that her program will draw an exceptional community of people who are as passionate about life and the Arabian horse as she is.
Pictured clockwise from top le : Bint Bella Mazin GA, H Bella Bellezza H & Cassies Song, H Bella Bellezza H, Agusto GAIt was a glorious summer day on Saturday, August 27th, for JR’s Dream Arabians Open House in Clarkston, Michigan.
Joanne Gunabalan hosted over 75 guests from the local community to an array of snacks and beverages to ll their stomachs while they took in beautiful Arabian horses to ll their souls. Adding to the atmosphere of fellowship was a handful of local vendors on site.
On hand to assist was local trainer, Annmarie Lavalle, barn managers, Donavan Ridgeway and Patrick McDade, the farm crew, and professional trainer Lucho Guimaraes, the master of ceremony and an expert in explaining the special qualities of the Arabian horse.
Activities included a walk-through of the new stable, followed by a presentation from Lucho of champion mares and their beautiful o spring to a group of people sitting on the edge of their seats. A fun time learning line dancing with Jenergy wrapped things up.
anks to Michele Daniels who set up the beverages and decorations, and Ashley and Lucho Guimaraes from LGA Arabians, who ew in from Scottsdale to prepare the horses, admiring adults and excited children were present to witness what a perfect Michigan day looks like surrounded by the exquisite Arabian horse.
Enjoy more!
AHA
Horse
English
Barta Show Horses
Beloveds Farm
Bridlewood Farms
Burkman Centre
Cedar Ridge Arabians
Chrishan Park
Downs Training Center
Colonial Wood Training Center
Collars
DePaolo
Arabians
Freedman’s
Farms.
H
International Properties
Hill Farm
Arabians
K
Kyrie Arabians
Lowe Show Horse Centre. 177-185
Mancini Training Center. 194, 195
Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc. 326
Midwest Training Centre. 22-77Midwest (224-279), 284
Way Ranch. 186, 187
National Arabian Horse Day. 72
R.O. Lervick Arabians 326
Rae-Dawn Arabians FC, 14-19
Training Center
175
RBC Show Horses 1,2 Royal Arabians 5
Shino Training Center 53-67
Signature Oak Stables 29-30
Springwater Farms 155-167
Stachowski Farm, Inc. 91-107
Sterling Equine 109-112
Stewart Performance Horses
169-173
Strand’s Arabian Stables 7
Ted Carson – Allgood 20-27
The Brass Ring 190, 191
The Hat Lady 326
Vicki Humphrey Training Center. 113-132
Wilkins Livestock Insurers, Inc. 326