Bridle & Bit Magazine June 2026 by Bridle & Bit

Taylor Sheridan’s Bosque Ranch Live Brings Music, Horses, and the Western Way of Life Together

There are concerts, there are festivals, and then there are Western experiences built by people who understand that the land, the horses, the music, and the story all belong together. Taylor Sheridan’s Bosque Ranch Live, set for September 12, 2026, in Weatherford, Texas, falls firmly in that last category.

Hosted at Bosque Ranch, Sheridan’s working ranch and equine headquarters just west of Fort Worth, the event is being built as more than a night of country music. It is a carefully staged Western gathering where fans of Sheridan’s television world, performance horse enthusiasts, country music listeners, and ranch lifestyle brands all meet in one place. For anyone who has watched Yellowstone, 1883, Landman, or Sheridan’s other Western-driven productions and wondered where the screen ends and the real world begins, Bosque Ranch Live offers a rare answer: right there in the dirt, under the Texas sky.

Sheridan’s television shows have helped introduce national audiences to a wide range of country and Americana artists, often by placing songs in scenes where the music becomes part of the emotional architecture. A good Sheridan music placement does not feel like background. It feels like weather, mood, memory, and prophecy all at once. Bosque Ranch Live takes that same instinct and brings it out from behind the screen. The songs are no longer coming through a television speaker. They are being performed in the same kind of Western environment that inspired the stories.

The most important part of Bosque Ranch Live may not be the celebrity connection at all. It may be the way the event treats the performance horse world as a cultural centerpiece, not a side attraction. Bosque Ranch is known as a premier North Texas equine facility and has been tied to major cutting, reined cow horse, and Western performance events. At Bosque Ranch Live, guests are not just being sold a concert ticket. They are being introduced to the horses, disciplines, gear, demonstrations, and traditions that support the Western way of life.

Sheridan has spent the past decade doing what few in modern entertainment have done. He has brought the ranching world, the cowboy code, and the performance horse industry into mainstream American culture without sanding off their edges. His stories are polished for television, but they are built around real horses, real riders, working ranch pressure, family land, old loyalties, and the hard economy of the West. Bosque Ranch Live carries that same formula into a live setting. The idea is not simply to invite people to watch a show. The idea is to let them step inside a Western world that Sheridan has helped millions of viewers recognize, romanticize, and in many cases, rediscover.

The 2026 Bosque Ranch Live lineup is led by Texas country voices that fit the Sheridan universe naturally. Tanner Usrey, a Texas-born singer-songwriter from Prosper, brings the kind of raw, road-worn storytelling that has become a signature of the modern independent country movement.

Shane Smith & The Saints, an Austinfounded band with a loyal following and direct ties to the Yellowstone audience, bring a big, sweeping Texas sound that feels made for a ranch arena rather than a theater stage. These are not random names placed on a festival poster. They are artists whose music aligns with the tone Sheridan has long championed: authentic, emotional, regional, and rooted in real-life stories. That connection between music and storytelling is central to the event.

The day’s experiences are designed to reflect that. The event schedule includes cutting demonstrations, NRCHA reined cow horse demonstrations, Classic Rope demonstrations, ranch tours, Western books, artisan work, lifestyle vendors, food, drinks, and curated brand activations. That mix matters. It makes the event feel less like a music festival using cowboy culture as decoration and more like a ranch gathering where the music is one part of a larger Western identity. This is where Sheridan’s influence on the horse industry becomes especially interesting. He is not only telling stories about cowboys. He is creating venues, events, and media platforms that put horses and riders in front of audiences far beyond the normal show pen. In his own words, his goal with Bosque Ranch is to create an experience for spectators while enhancing opportunities for riders. That philosophy is visible in the way Bosque Ranch Live is structured. It gives the spectator something to feel, but it also gives the Western performance world a larger stage.

That is a powerful idea at a time when horse sports continue to work for broader visibility. Cutting, reining, reined cow horse, roping, and ranch disciplines all have passionate communities, but the general public often does not understand the skill, breeding, training, and horsemanship behind them. Sheridan has helped close that gap by making the horse a central character in his storytelling. Bosque Ranch Live has the potential to extend that bridge, letting new fans see the difference between a horse used as a prop and a performance horse doing a job.

The ticket structure also shows how the event is being positioned. General Admission gives guests access to a full ranch day with music and experiences. Higher-tier packages add meals, VIP viewing, drink tickets, overnight stays, and campfire-style moments. The overnight packages, including tent, popup gazebo, and RV options, push the experience beyond a standard event and closer to a Western retreat. Guests can come for the concert, but the larger promise is immersion: a day and night at the ranch, surrounded by the sounds, food, horses, people, and imagery of Sheridan’s West.

Chef Gabriel “Gator” Guilbeau, familiar to Yellowstone fans and tied to Sheridan’s production world, is part of the hospitality offering, adding another layer of continuity between the television audience and the ranch experience.

Tanner Usrey

Shane Smith & The Saints

Taylor and Chef Gabriel “Gator” Guilbeau

Bridle & Bit Launches

Expanded Online Community Hub

Bridle & Bit has launched a newly expanded website designed to bring Arizona’s horse community together in one easy-to-use online hub. As Arizona’s premier horse publication since 1978, Bridle & Bit has always connected readers with the people, events, businesses, and resources that matter most. The new BridleandBit.com takes that mission online with a stronger digital platform built for today’s horse owners, competitors, trainers, advertisers, and equestrian families.

The website now connects visitors to Bridle & Bit’s growing network of Facebook groups, horse industry websites, event calendars, guides, and community resources. From team roping, reining, barrel racing, rodeo, cutting, cow horse, horse property, trailers, and local bulletin boards, the site gives readers one central place to find the communities and information they need.

The new platform also highlights Bridle & Bit’s expanding web properties, including TeamRoping.ai, HorseInsurance. ai, HorseCalendar.ai, HorseProperty Guide.com, TeamRopingVideos.com, and WorldsGreatestHorseman. com, and others. These tools and directories are being built to serve the modern horse industry with searchable calendars, educational guides, video libraries, insurance information, podcasts, and event resources.

For advertisers, the new website creates a larger digital reach beyond the monthly magazine, connecting print, social media, websites, and community groups into one powerful media network. For readers, it provides a simple gateway into Arizona’s active horse community.

Dressed for the West How Kimes Ranch Became the Western Industry’s Most Impactful

Sponsor and Changed Breakaway Roping

There is a moment at virtually every major western event in the country where you stop and notice: the Kimes Ranch logo is everywhere. On the pocket of the reined cow horse competitor walking to the in-gate. On the cap of the barrel racer warming up behind the arena. On the title banner over the roping box at the richest breakaway event in the history of rodeo. On the championship buckle presentation at the NRCHA Western Derby in Scottsdale. On the back of the Arizona Ridge Riders’ uniforms at a PBR Team Series event.

Kimes Ranch did not build this presence through luck. The brand founded by Matt and Amanda Kimes in Arizona, rooted in the horse and cattle industry, and built around the premise that western wear could be both rugged and refined has become the western world’s most strategically aggressive and authentically embedded sponsor in a remarkably short period of time. The portfolio of partnerships now spans every major discipline in the western performance horse world, professional rodeo, collegiate athletics, women’s sports, the music industry, and bull riding. And at the center of that portfolio is a single event that may represent the most significant single investment any western apparel brand has ever made in a sport: the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway.

Forever

“The Kimes Ranch partnership with NRCHA is one rooted in our love for the cow horse and the entire NRCHA community,” Amanda Kimes has said. “Our brand is based firmly in the tenets of family, hard work, and integrity values that we know run deep through the cow horse industry.” That authenticity is not a marketing line. It is the organizing principle of everything the brand does.

Across Every Discipline: The Sponsorship Portfolio

The reach of Kimes Ranch’s sponsorship activity is genuinely broad. While many brands plant a flag in one corner of the western world, Kimes Ranch has methodically built presence across virtually every major competitive discipline and done so in ways that go beyond logo placement.

NRCHA Western Derby Title Sponsor

The Brand and the People Behind It

Kimes Ranch began under a different name. Matt and Amanda Kimes originally launched as Longhorn Jean Company, naming their first two styles after their longhorns, Betty and Barney. After a trademark nudge from a prominent Texas university and a rebrand to LJC Apparel that never quite felt right, they landed on the name that would stick: Kimes Ranch a reflection of their deep roots in the horse and cattle world and the life they were actually living.

The brand’s founding vision was specific: make the jean that the western world couldn’t find anywhere else. Rugged enough for the ranch. Refined enough for the rest of life. The result was a product line known for thoughtful construction, precise fit, and a clean aesthetic that borrowed from fashion without abandoning function. Premium denim, elevated silhouettes, and consistent quality created a loyal customer base that spread through the show pen and across the broader western lifestyle market.

What separates Kimes Ranch from other apparel brands in the western space is not just the product — it’s the people. Matt and Amanda Kimes are competitors, not investors. They have shown in NRCHA events. Their children show. Their marketing leadership is drawn from the competitive world: Lindsay Perraton, their Chief Marketing Officer, comes from inside the industry; McKenzie Parkinson, their Event and Sponsorship Manager, is married to NRCHA professional trainer Shadd Parkinson and is the daughter of legendary trainer Al Dunning. This is a brand staffed by people who understand the community they serve because they live in it.

The brand’s most prominent association-level sponsorship is its title sponsorship of the Kimes Ranch Western Derby, the NRCHA’s premier limited-aged event held annually at WestWorld of Scottsdale, Arizona. Kimes Ranch is not merely the event’s naming sponsor — the brand is also recognized as the Official Outerwear and Cap of the NRCHA, embedding it throughout the association’s yearround identity. The Western Derby returned to WestWorld for its fifth consecutive year in 2026, drawing 4- and 5-year-old horses through the full herd, rein, and cow work sequence. The event also serves as a Run For A Million Cow Horse Challenge qualifier, connecting the brand directly to the Western performance industry’s biggest annual stage. “The NRCHA is very excited about our partnership with Kimes Ranch,” NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel said. “The Kimes brand remains true to the Western roots, which are the same core values we have in the reined cow horse.”

Team Roping, Futurities, and Youth Development

For the roping community, Kimes Ranch’s support continues through major industry platforms including Rancho Rio and the American Rope Horse Futurities, both of which connect directly to the horses, breeders, riders, and competitors shaping the future of the performance horse world. Rather than focusing only on event-day visibility, Kimes Ranch has built its sponsorship presence around programs that help strengthen participation, competition, and long-term growth across the western industry. That commitment also extends to youth competitors through Kimes Ranch’s support of the AQHYA Youth World Show Competition Award Fund, which awards $500,000 to youth competitors each year.

“The future of our industry depends on the next generation of riders,” said Matt Kimes, cofounder and president of Kimes Ranch. “As lifelong AQHA competitors, our executive team at Kimes Ranch grew up showing American Quarter Horses and we are passionate about fostering youth participation. AQHYA played a pivotal role in bringing our team together as young riders and we are committed to ensuring it continues to unite and inspire future generations.”

Bull Riding — PBR Arizona Ridge Riders Official Apparel

In 2024, Kimes Ranch became the official apparel partner of the Arizona Ridge Riders, the PBR Team Series franchise that competes at Desert Diamond Arena in the Valley. The partnership outfits the team in button-up shirts, Kimes Ranch jeans, travel gear, and outerwear making the brand the face of Arizona’s professional bull riding presence. “We couldn’t think of a better way to step into the world of PBR than by partnering with our hometown team,” said Lindsay Perraton at the time of the announcement. The Ridge Riders partnership extends Kimes Ranch into the bull riding and extreme rodeo audience a community that overlaps with traditional western performance but carries its own distinct identity.

Reining — National Presence

Kimes Ranch maintains active presence across the NRHA circuit and the broader reining world through athlete endorsements, event sponsorships, and its role in underwriting NRBC activities. The brand was present at the 2026 National Reining Breeders Classic, celebrating Luca Fappani’s L4 NRBC Co-Reserve Championship. Its athlete roster includes competitors across reining, further deepening its visibility in a discipline that the Run For A Million has put directly under a national spotlight.

Country Music — Zach Top Partnership

In the country music space, Kimes Ranch’s largest music partnership is with Zach Top, one of the rising voices bringing traditional country sound to a new generation of fans. The collaboration connects Kimes Ranch directly to the western and country music audience, where lifestyle, authenticity, and heritage remain central to the culture. As part of the partnership, Zach Top has a signature line coming out with Kimes Ranch in the fall, while his jean, “The ZT,” is already available in stores. For Kimes Ranch, the partnership reflects the brand’s belief that western culture extends beyond the arena into music, fashion, tradition, and the everyday lifestyle of the people who live it.

Collegiate and Student Athletics

The Kimes Ranch Collegiate Team Sponsorship Program partners with collegiate rodeo and equestrian teams across the country, providing exclusive discounts for student athletes who compete across all disciplines. The Student Athlete Team program accepts individual student athletes annually, investing in competitors who are balancing academics and competition the next generation of the western world.

Athlete Endorsements — Every Event

Kimes Ranch’s athlete roster spans breakaway roping, bareback bronc riding, team roping, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, trick riding, barrel racing, and bull riding. The breadth of that list is not coincidental. It reflects a deliberate strategy to be present wherever elite western athletes compete, across every discipline, at every level.

The Million Dollar Breakaway: A Category-Defining Investment

Everything Kimes Ranch does in the western sponsorship world is significant. But nothing approaches the scale, ambition, and impact of the event that bears their name and changed the landscape of women’s professional rodeo: the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway. The story begins with a problem that had existed in rodeo for years. Breakaway roping the fastest event in the sport, in which a female competitor ropes a calf with a rope tied to the saddle horn with a breakable string, the clock stopping the instant the string snaps — had been growing in popularity for years. By 2022, it had gained PRCA sanction at hundreds of rodeos across the country. But it was still optional, still excluded from the main floor of the Thomas & Mack at the National Finals Rodeo, and still paying a fraction of what other NFR events paid. When the NFR paid $36,668 per round in top events, the National Finals Breakaway Roping held at the South Point Hotel & Casino days before the NFR began paid just $6,196 per round. Kimes Ranch and producer Chris Neal looked at that landscape and decided to act.

In 2024, they launched the inaugural Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway at WestWorld of Scottsdale an open event, no membership required, for all female breakaway ropers, with a $1 million total purse. The event was nationally televised on FOX Sports, both live and as a featured program on the FOX Network. Twenty-five finalists competed

across ten go-rounds over three nights in Scottsdale. The inaugural event was an immediate success, creating what Sports Illustrated called “one of the highest-paying events of the season” and establishing a new standard for what women’s rodeo could look like.

In 2025, the event returned and raised the bar. Four cowgirls earned at least $100,000 each in just three nights of competition. Hali Williams of Comanche, Texas, emerged as the event’s marquee performer. The event’s total payout exceeded $1 million across qualifying events and the main event, making the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway responsible for nearly half of all reported breakaway earnings tracked in AQHA’s QData system for the year.

The presenting sponsorship of Boot Barn the largest western and workwear retailer in the country, which supports over 800 rodeos and local events annually further cemented the event’s institutional credibility. “Boot Barn is honored to support the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway, a truly groundbreaking event in the Western industry,” said Tye Romano, Boot Barn’s Director of New Stores & Events Performance. “This historic moment will not only change lives but also inspire the next generation of breakaway ropers.”

The partnership with Premier Women’s Rodeo (PWR) the world’s largest all-women’s rodeo organization, now owned by PBR under TKO Group Holdings added a Challenger Incentive layer that expanded the event beyond its elite-tier roster, creating tiered opportunities for competitors at Pro, Challenger, and Limited levels. “This is just another way to elevate the women of rodeo and an opportunity to continue to even the playing field for the ladies of the sport,” said Linsay Rosser Sumpter, PWR Commissioner.

In 2025, an equine health concern in the broader show community forced the event to shift its dates from late November to December 16–21 a significant logistical challenge that organizers handled swiftly, maintaining the full competition format and adding live music throughout the final rounds. The flexibility and commitment shown in that moment spoke to how seriously Kimes Ranch and CN Productions take the event’s long-term sustainability.

2026: The Biggest Year Yet

The 2026 Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway represents the most significant expansion in the event’s three-year history, returning to WestWorld of Scottsdale November 23–29, 2026, with Boot Barn again as presenting sponsor.

The structural changes are sweeping. For the first time, world standings no longer provide a guaranteed pathway to the finals every competitor starts equal, regardless of ranking. The Semi-Finals field expands dramatically to 211 competitors, advancing through a combination of qualifiers, the VRQ leaderboard, and partnership incentive programs. From those 211, only 20 finalists advance to the Championship Finals.

New qualifying events have been added for 2026: a Summer Qualifier ($30,000 added), a Fall Qualifier ($30,000 added), and the returning Oklahoma’s Richest at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie, Oklahoma (October 15–18, $30,000 added), alongside the First Chance Qualifier (completed in Scottsdale in December 2025) and a Last Chance Qualifier (November 23–24, WestWorld of Scottsdale). The VRQ pathway, through which athletes accumulate points at any of approximately 15,000 eligible PRCA, UPRA, and IPRA rodeos, provides 20 additional spots with no entry fee requirement beyond the nomination fee.

“These updates reflect our commitment to growing the sport and expanding opportunities for breakaway ropers at every level,” said Amanda Kimes in the 2026 expansion announcement.

The connection to The Run For A Million adds further dimension to 2026. The addition of a $50,000-Added Breakaway Roping Showcase at The Run For A Million on August 14 in Las Vegas also in partnership with PWR means that for the first time, the sport’s two biggest financial stages exist in the same calendar year, creating a genuine dual-peak competitive calendar for elite breakaway athletes.

What It All Means

The western apparel industry has always had sponsors. What it has rarely had is a brand that sponsors with the depth, authenticity, and strategic clarity that Kimes Ranch brings to the table.

From the cattle ranch family in Arizona who started with two longhorns named Betty and Barney, to the title sponsor of the richest women’s rodeo event in history the Kimes Ranch story is, at its core, a story about a brand that genuinely belongs to the world it serves. They show. They compete. Their children compete. Their leadership team comes from inside the disciplines they sponsor.

The Biggest Week in Western Sports

The Run For A Million Returns to Southpoint in 2026 Bigger, Bolder, and More Inclusive Than Ever

In 2019, Taylor Sheridan had an idea: put the best reining horses in the world on the biggest stage possible, offer a milliondollar purse, and film it for television. The result was The Run For A Million and it changed the trajectory of the Western performance horse industry in ways that even its creators may not have fully anticipated.

Seven years later, that idea has grown into something far larger than one event, one discipline, or one million dollars. The 2026 edition, set for August 11–15 at the South Point Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, is the most expansive version yet spanning reining, cutting, reined cow horse, rodeo, youth competition, non-pro divisions, and now, for the first time, women’s breakaway roping. It is no longer just a reining event with a television backdrop. It is the premier week in Western equine sports, full stop.

language. Anyone who has watched show attendance figures, breeding sale prices, or television ratings over the past seven years knows it to be true.

The Million Dollar Competition: Sixteen Riders, One Go, Everything on the Line

The anchor event remains the Million Dollar Competition sixteen qualified riders, one go-round, winner takes $500,000 from a total purse of $1,000,000. NRHA Category 11 Approved.

To earn a spot, riders must qualify through one of three paths: the 2025 Run For A Million, the 2025 Equita Lyon in France, or the 2026 Spring Qualifier (The Qualifier). The 2026 field is already set and features some of the most decorated names in reining history alongside rising international competitors.

Where It Started — And What It Started

The Run For A Million was created as the centerpiece of The Last Cowboy, Sheridan’s television series now in its sixth season. The premise was straightforward: real horsemen and women, real competition, massive stakes. No scripted drama needed. Sixteen of the best NRHA professionals in the world would qualify and compete in a single go-round for a $1,000,000 purse, with the champion taking home $500,000.

That format remains at the heart of the event. What has changed is everything around it.

From its reining-only origins, The Run For A Million began adding disciplines cutting, then reined cow horse and the ripple effects were felt well beyond Las Vegas. Each addition brought new audiences, new sponsors, and new energy to sports that had long existed in relative obscurity outside their own dedicated communities. The growth was real and measurable, felt at cutting events, cow horse competitions, and across the broader rodeo world.

The qualified field for 2026’s Million Dollar Competition includes Ben Beckett, Gabriel Borges, Trevor Dare, Casey Deary, Andrea Fappani, Alessandro Frassa, Arno Honstetter, Francesco Martinotti, Cade McCutcheon, Mirko Midili, Martin Muehlstaetter, Kole Price, Fernando Salgado, Gina Schumacher, Dany Tremblay, and Jason Vanlandingham. The names span North America and Europe a reflection of how global reining has become, in no small part because of this event’s international reach. Gabriel Borges entered Las Vegas with momentum after winning the 2026 Spring Qualifier aboard Spooks Gotta Ice with a 230-level run. Casey Deary, Andrea Fappani, Kole Price, Gina Schumacher, and Jason Vanlandingham return as prior qualifiers from the 2025 event. Fernando Salgado brings the lone 2024 qualifying spot into the mix. The competition will be extraordinarily deep. For those who need a primer: reining is a judged event designed to demonstrate the athletic ability of a ranch-type horse within the confines of a show arena. Each run includes small slow circles, large fast circles, flying lead changes, rollbacks over the hocks, 360-degree spins done in place, and the hallmark of the reining horse the long, dramatic sliding stop. Scores reward degree of difficulty and execution in equal measure. At the top level, the difference between first and last can be a matter of fractions, decided in seconds.

“The inaugural Run For A Million generated an excitement that has spread beyond the world of reining to all western performance horse disciplines,” the organization notes. That is not marketing

The 2026 Cow Horse Challenge field already includes Todd Crawford, Chris Dawson, Nicholas Dower, Shawn Hays, Kelby Phillips, Boyd Rice, Tucker Robinson, Erin Taormino, Jake Telford, and Justin Wright ten of the best reined cow horse competitors in the sport.

The cow horse event is among the most athletically demanding in the Western performance world. Horse and rider work in three phases: the reining pattern, the cow work (fence work), and in full competition, a herd work phase as well. The fence work alone boxing a single cow at the end of the arena, then turning it down the fence at full speed in both directions before driving it in circles in the center is as close to pure horsemanship as competitive sport gets. Fortunes rise and fall in split seconds. A horse that loses its cow, or breaks down on the fence, sees its score collapse in moments. The best runs, when horse and cow are locked in and the fence work is clean, are genuinely breathtaking to watch.

The Youth Cow Horse Challenge will also be contested, with top finalists from the 2026 Western Bloodstock World’s Greatest Youth Horseman event receiving invitations.

The Cutting Horse Challenge

Cutting competition joins the TRFAM lineup with its own elite field. In a cutting run, horse and rider separate a single cow from a herd, and then the rider drops the rein hand giving the horse complete control as the horse works to prevent the cow from returning to the herd. The athleticism required is extraordinary: quick stops, explosive lateral movement, reading the cow’s every intention before it happens. A 2.5-minute run can shift the outcome of an entire career.

rodeo, now owned and operated by PBR as part of TKO Group Holdings. Twenty contestants will compete on August 14, selected through a combination of invitations (the 2026 PWR World Champions, current leaderboard leaders across Pro/Challenger/Limited classifications, and the 2025 WPRA World Champion) and two qualifying routes a PWR Last Chance Qualifier and the top finishers from the PWR Championship overall aggregate.

“Partnering with Premier Women’s Rodeo allows us to introduce one of the fastest-growing events in rodeo to The Run For A Million audience,” said Cheryl Cody, The Run For A Million Manager. “Breakaway roping has captured tremendous fan interest, and we are proud to welcome these outstanding athletes.”

The Run For A Million has expanded the number of advancing riders for the Cutting Horse Challenge, broadening the competitive field and deepening the event’s tie to the National Cutting Horse Association community. Cutting, like reined cow horse, was already a well-established discipline before TRFAM arrived but the platform this event provides has accelerated its visibility with new audiences dramatically

The Open Shootout, The Race to the Slide, and the Ranch Challenge

Beyond the headline events, The Run For A Million offers competitive opportunities across a full spectrum of Western disciplines.

The Open Shootout provides an additional elite reining competition stage. The Race to the Slide is designed to showcase the athleticism of the sliding stop reining’s most dramatic maneuver in a head-to-head format. The Cowboy Heritage Ranch Challenge speaks to the working horse tradition at the heart of all Western performance sports, honoring the skills that began on actual ranches long before competition arenas existed.

Divisions for Every Level

One of the most underappreciated aspects of The Run For A Million is the depth of competition it offers beyond the elite professional level. The Non Pro Challenge and Non Pro Cutting Horse Challenge bring amateur competitors — those who train and show horses as owners rather than as paid professionals to the same stage as the sport’s elite. The Rookie 1 and Rookie 2 Challenges create pathways for competitors newer to the sport. The Youth Reining Challenge invites the next generation of reiners to compete in Las Vegas. All of these divisions run concurrently with the professional events throughout the week.

The result is an event that is genuinely inclusive not just a showcase for the world’s best, but a place where an amateur can walk down the same barn aisle as a world champion, compete in the same arena, and take something home that matters.

2026’s Biggest New Addition: Breakaway Roping Comes to Las Vegas

The most significant expansion for 2026 is the addition of a $50,000-Added Breakaway Roping Showcase, presented in partnership with PWR — Premier Women’s Rodeo, the world’s largest all-women’s

Linsay Rosser Sumpter, PWR Commissioner, framed the moment as part of a broader shift: “By adding breakaway roping, they are opening doors for women to compete on one of the largest and most prestigious stages. Moments like this remind us that when the Western industry works together, we all become stronger.”

Breakaway roping is deceptively fast. A calf breaks from the chute, horse and rider pursue, and the roper loops the calf’s neck with a single throw the rope tied lightly to the saddle horn, so it snaps free on contact rather than holding. The entire sequence happens in under two seconds at the elite level. The margin for error is zero. The skill required to do it consistently, at competition speed, on livestock you’ve never seen before, is exceptional.

PWR’s entry into The Run For A Million brings its tiered classification system (Pro, Challenger, Limited), its national broadcast exposure through PBR’s media platform, and a community of women athletes who have been competing at an elite level for years with the highest-rated rodeo telecast ever on CBS as proof of their drawing power. Their arrival in Las Vegas is not a novelty addition. It is a statement that The Run For A Million is the home of Western performance sport at its broadest.

The South Point Hotel & Casino is the host venue — 9 restaurants, 64 bowling lanes, a 400-seat showroom, and one of the finest equestrian centers in the country. It is a full destination. The equestrian center hosts world-class competition year-round, but there is nothing on its calendar quite like the week of August 11–15.

The Bigger Picture

What The Run For A Million has done for the Western performance horse industry is genuinely hard to overstate. Prize money at other events has increased. Breeding values for top reining and cow horse bloodlines have risen. Television exposure has brought fans to events they previously would never have found. Young riders have a reason to point toward Las Vegas the same way young rodeo athletes point toward the NFR.

The 2026 edition with a set million-dollar field, a strengthened cow horse and cutting lineup, expanded non-pro and youth divisions, and the addition of the sport’s fastest-growing women’s event is the fullest expression yet of what that vision was always meant to become. It started with sixteen reiners and a camera crew. Seven years later, it is the biggest week in Western sports.

The Run For A Million 2026

August 11–15, 2026

South Point Hotel & Casino | Las Vegas, Nevada Breakaway Roping Showcase: August 14

World Champions reflect on gold buckle memories

By Tracy Renck, Manager of Communications & Media

When a PRORODEO contestant wins a coveted world championship it comes with many perks.

One of those perks is attending the world championship media day.

That day came Tuesday at the Voodoo Lounge at the Rio.

The 2025 PRORODEO World Champions – Stetson Wright (allaround, bull riding); Rocker Steiner (bareback riding); Tucker Allen (steer wrestling); Andrew Ward (team roping header); Jake Long (team roping heeler); Statler Wright (saddle bronc riding); Riley Webb (tie-down roping); and Kassie Mowry (barrel racing) – were all in attendance and spent time reflecting on their memorable seasons.

“Winning last year was really cool,” said Webb, who won his third world championship in a row. “I had a lot of eyes on me since I won it the two previous years, and Shad (Mayfield) had a good year, and we were going to battle it out. I just knew I needed to do my job. I put in a lot of hard work before the NFR (during the Northwest run), and I got hot in Ellensburg (Wash.) and started placing everywhere and winning everywhere and rolled into the NFR with that momentum. It felt really good.”

NRHA Announces $150,000 Increase To 2026 NRHA Derby® 4-Year-Old Stakes

Total added money surpasses $300,000 with expanded divisions across all levels

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) has announced a significant expansion to the 2026 NRHA Derby 4-Year-Old Stakes, adding $150,000 in new added money to the program. The Stakes will once again run concurrently with the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel. A huge thank you to Gabe and Susi Hutchins of Tamarack Ranch and Amy, Kevin and Lane Colston of Colston Paving for being long time and continued sponsors of these Stakes.

With this increase, total added money for the 4-Year-Old Stakes now exceeds $300,000. Previously limited to the Level 4 Open and Level 4 Non Pro divisions, the Stakes will expand in 2026 to include Levels 1, 2, and 3 in both Open and Non Pro competition.

“This investment reflects NRHA’s continued commitment to the growth of the Derby and to creating meaningful opportunities for reiners at every level,” said Billy Smith, NRHA Commissioner.

The 4-Year-Old Stakes has quickly become an important platform for showcasing the next generation of reining athletes. The addition of Levels 1 through 3 ensures that more owners, breeders, and competitors can participate in a high-value, high-visibility environment, while also enhancing the depth and competitiveness of the event.

This expansion aligns with NRHA’s broader initiative to create more inclusive and progressive opportunities across all levels of the sport. By increasing accessibility and potential return on investment, the Stakes continues to grow as a key component of the Derby experience.

Allen came to the 2025 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo fifth in the PRCA | Bill Fick Ford World Standings, but he was an underwhelming underdog to capture a gold buckle. That only inspired the California native.

“Not that I needed to get excited, but that lit a fire under me,” Allen said. “When it was over I won the average and the world championship, it was a dream come true. Ever since then (after Round 10 on Dec. 13) it has been a whirlwind for me. I’ve done a lot more interviews and we (the world champions) got to meet President Donald Trump (at the Oval Office) earlier this year. It has just been incredible. It is a great time to be a world champion, and I love the responsibility of promoting the sport (of rodeo).”

Like Allen, Ward/Long were also first-time PRCA World Champions in Ward’s sixth trip to the NFR and Long’s 15th.

“It seemed like everything went our way that week and I was having a ball,” Ward said.

Long concurred with his partner.

“It was just a magical week,” Long said. “When you get the ball rolling out here (in Las Vegas), there’s nothing like it. The electricity every night, going for $30,000 (to win the round). It is the most fun 10 days of your life.”

Stetson Wright missed the entire 2024 season with a hamstring injury that happened at the 2023 NFR and nearly ended his career.

However, the Beaver, Utah, cowboy was back to being Superman at the Thomas & Mack Center and walked away with two world titles. Wright has 10 world championships – six in all-around, 2019-23, and 2025; one in saddle bronc riding 2021; and three in bull riding, 2020, 2022 and 2025.

“It was super awesome to win the all-around,” Stetson said. “My rookie year (in 2019) I had a race to win the gold buckle, but after my rookie year I really didn’t have much of a race. So, going into (2025), Wacey (Schalla) was part of it, and it was really exciting. Everybody kind of overlooks the all-around race when you are blowing everybody out of the water, so it was super fun having Wacey part of the race last year.

“It was super awesome winning another bull riding world title. It seems like everyone you get feels that much more special. It was so cool to win my first bull riding world title in 2020 and 2022 felt good because I showed that it wasn’t a fluke. Then, when I did it on my return (to the NFR in 2025) to win it for the third time, I was pumped. I felt like 2026 has set me up for another one and I’m just going to keep chipping away.”

The 2025 world champions will try and put themselves in a position, not only to return to the NFR, but also walk away with gold buckle memories – again.

The 2026 NFR takes place Dec. 3-12 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADAM SHANE

INTERVIEW Dr. Gabby GrandPre

BY TRACY WAGER EQUINE SPORTS MEDICINE

Q - For Bridle & Bit readers who may not know you yet, please introduce yourself, your veterinary background, and the rehabilitation center you operate in Scottsdale.

A - My name is Gabrielle Solum GrandPre. I grew up riding and showing mostly reining horses in my youth. While I always knew I wanted to be a veterinarian, the versatility, athleticism, and “heart” of the horse attracted me to want to work with performance horses. I truly love how amazing horses are at so many things, including just providing a rich human animal bond.

After veterinary school, I completed a one year rotating equine hospital internship at Chaparral Veterinary Medical Center in Cave Creek, Arizona. I then completed a 3 year residency in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at Colorado State University. I also completed my Master’s degree in Clinical Science at the same time as my residency. I have worked as a veterinarian for Equine Sports Medicine for 5 years. We provide onsite veterinary care at most of the major shows in the AQHA, NRHA, APHA, and PtHA circuits.

Our rehabilitation center was started in 2023 by Dr. Sherry Johnson (also with Equine Sports Medicine) and I have been in the Scottsdale area since the fall of 2024 providing both rehab and sports medicine ambulatory services. I really enjoy working with horseman on routine and complicated sports medicine cases and providing individual rehabilitation programs for the horses in our care.

performance maintenance?

The most common reason horses enter our program is for injury recovery. But we see horses for a variety of reasons from conditioning to post surgery bandage care to R&R between competitions. At our rehab center in Scottsdale, we manage a broad range of cases in terms of injury, performance level, and end rehabilitation goal. We have also had several young horses who have not entered training but are rehabbing from surgery or injury and we are able to provide rehabilitation and teach important ground manners before they go under saddle. Additionally, we have many “frequent flyers” who come for targeted strength and conditioning during their downtime. Our summer conditioning programs are also getting more popular as a way to maintain fitness through the hot summer months via underwater treadmill and customized, targeted core strengthening programs.

Q - Many people may think of equine rehabilitation as something only for elite show horses. What types of horses can benefit from your services?

A - Rehabilitation is definitely not just for elite show/competition horses. We have seen horses from nearly every discipline, level, and breed imaginable. I work closely with each owner to meet their rehabilitation goals. Some horses are at the peak of their careers when they come to us, some are at the end, and some have never even entered a show ring. Because of the individualized program for each horse, I feel confident that our rehabilitation center can be a useful tool for just about any horse!

What are the most common reasons horse owners bring hoses to your rehab center — injury recovery, soreness, lameness, conditioning, post-surgical care, senior horse support, or

Q - How do you evaluate a horse when it first comes into your program, and how do you decide what type of rehabilitation or therapy plan is appropriate?

A - Each horse that enters the program receives a comprehensive, 100+ point evaluation. I also review each horses’ history carefully to identify different areas we can help to improve their performance and quality of life. Each case is very muli-faceted. Each horse has a primary injury or weakness to consider, their performance discipline, comorbidities and weaknesses, systemic health, and general demeanor and personality. Each of these things play a role in the rehab program that is custom made for them. Even if two horses have the same baseline diagnosis, their rehab plans will often look different because each case is so unique. Additionally, the stage of healing, level of lameness, and owners goals play a role in which rehab modality is appropriate at which time point. Then the horse gets frequent recheck evaluations (included in the price of rehab) which allows me to adjust their plan based on progress, healing stage, and compatibility with each modality

Our rehab pricing is an “all in” tier based schedule. This means that I can use as many modalities as that horse needs without the owner feeling the burden of a more a la carte pricing system.

Q - What role can rehabilitation play for horses, including rope horses, barrel horses, ranch horses, trail horses, dressage horses, jumpers, reining horses and older family horses?

A - I really think rehab can play an important role in any horse’s success. Just like each horse is an individual, our custom programs allow us to cater to the overall health of the horse. I always let my clients know that we will of course target the primary injury, but we will also address any secondary or compensatory weaknesses and pain that the horse might carry. By being knowledgeable in an array of disciplines I am able to target different muscle groups which are important for the different maneuvers each sport might require. Additionally, just like gymnast are more prone to ankle sprains from high impact landing and runners have knee pain from overuse, different disciplines lead to common primary and secondary pain in horses. All of these issues can be targeted in a rehab program through stretching, massage, laser, cryo and heat therapy and a multitude of other modalities. Rehab isn’t a one plan fits all, but our rehab can make a plan to fit any horse and anyone’s goals.

Q - What should owners watch for at home that may indicate a horse is uncomfortable, compensating, losing condition, or in need of a veterinary rehabilitation evaluation?

A - Horses show pain in a variety of ways. The most common and usually obvious symptom is lameness. However this can be subtle or severe. Additional symptoms include behavior changes, decreased ability to perform at the same level, changes in haircoat, loss of topline or muscular asymmetry. Horses will communicate their pain if we are paying attention to small subtle changes.

Q - Do you provide ranch calls or work with horse owners who prefer to treat and manage their horses at their own facility, and how do you decide which cases can be supported on-site versus which horses need to come into your rehab center?

A - I do think that a veterinary directed, customized rehab program at a rehab facility like ours is the gold standard. Not only do we have all the rehab devices and modalities, but we know when it is best to utilize them. I truly believe our programs lead to better quality of healing after injury and less time off.

However, investing in a full time rehab program is not always feasible to everyone for a variety of reasons. I provide full sports medicine care and rehabilitation consults on a haul in and ambulatory basis to the greater Phoenix area and even travel to Tucson and Wickenburg. Rehab consultations can be a one time visit or an ongoing partnership. I also like to work closely with other veterinarians that would like to build at home rehab programs as well.

Q -For horse owners who have never considered a rehab center before, what would you want them to understand about how your Scottsdale facility can help horses at many levels?

A - Rehabilitation is more than stall rest and handwalking. The success of rehab is in the targeted, nitty gritty details of the approach. At our Scottsdale rehab center, I am truly invested in

the horses success- whatever that might look like. We work hard to provide treatment plans that address the whole horse and want them to be as strong as possible when they leave our care. Through targeted conditioning, underwater treadmill, resistance bands, laser therapy, blood flow restriction therapy and many more modalities we are able to encourage collagen neosynthesis, decrease inflammation and pain, increase strength, address atrophy and accomplish whatever other rehab goals we have. Rehab shouldn’t be a last ditch effort but should be at the forefront of every injury and treatment plan.

Please call and schedule a visit at our rehab center to see everything it has to offer at (940)-208-2607. You can also reach Dr. Gabby GrandPre for lameness examination and rehab consultations at 940-510-8653 or at ggrandpre@equine-sportsmedicine.com

The Sheridan Universe

Taylor Sheridan Built the Biggest Empire in Television Then Left. Here’s

Where Everything Stands.

There is no one in television quite like Taylor Sheridan. The man who grew up in Texas in the shadow of the Four Sixes Ranch dreaming of a life on horseback, eventually drifting into acting, quietly deciding one day that he would rather write his own stories has become the most prolific and commercially dominant creator in the history of the medium. Not just in Western television. In all of television.

By May 2026, Sheridan has multiple shows airing or in production simultaneously on Paramount+ and CBS, with more in the pipeline. He owns approximately 267,000 acres of ranchland in Texas, including a majority interest in the historic 6666 Ranch. He created The Run For A Million, the event that transformed the Western performance horse industry. And in October 2025, after the dust settled from Paramount’s sale to Skydance Media, he walked away from the company he helped make relevant signing a deal with NBCUniversal that could be worth up to $1 billion.

For fans of Sheridan’s work and for the equestrian and ranching world he has championed more visibly than any creator in Hollywood history understanding where everything stands requires a map. This is that map.

The Paramount-Skydance Divorce: What Happened

For years, Sheridan operated at Paramount with a level of creative autonomy that was essentially unheard of in the studio system. He wrote entire seasons of multiple shows without a traditional writers’ room. He used his own Texas ranches as filming locations. He built a production infrastructure including his Bosque Ranch compound outside Weatherford, Texas that gave him physical control of his creative environment in a way that most creators never achieve.

His relationship with Paramount was built on a foundation of specific personal connections, primarily with co-CEO Chris McCarthy, who had been the executive champion of the Sheridan franchise from its earliest days. When Skydance Media completed its acquisition of Paramount Global in August 2025, McCarthy was among the executives who exited the company. Those relationships the ones that had allowed Sheridan to operate the way he operated were gone.

Skydance CEO David Ellison personally flew to Texas on a private jet shortly after the merger closed to meet with Sheridan at his ranch and reassure him about the new leadership’s commitment to his work. By Sheridan’s own account, those conversations went well enough in the room. But within weeks, it became clear that Paramount’s new owners were not going to make him a formal offer to extend his deal a decision that, by multiple accounts, was driven not by money but by a failure of institutional relationship-building.

The creative friction was real. Sheridan had previously made his terms clear in no uncertain terms: “I spent the first 37 years of my life compromising. When I quit acting, I decided that I am going to tell my stories my way, period. If you don’t want me to tell them, fine. Give them back and I’ll find someone who does.”

NBCUniversal was happy to have them. In October 2025, Sheridan signed a new deal with NBCU that begins with a five-year film arrangement starting in 2026, with television to follow when his Paramount contract expires at the end of 2028. His producing partner David Glasser and 101 Studios signed a companion first-look deal with NBCU effective early 2026.

What Is Currently on the Air

Yellowstone (Paramount Network / Peacock)

The show that started everything. Yellowstone debuted on the Paramount Network in 2018 and became one of the most-watched scripted dramas in American television history a remarkable achievement for a cable drama that was initially passed over by nearly every major network. Five seasons, 53 episodes, and a cultural moment that put working ranch culture, family land legacy, and the American West back at the center of the national conversation. The series concluded in 2024 with Kevin Costner’s departure over salary disputes forcing a rewrite of the Dutton family saga. Yellowstone now streams on Peacock.

Landman (Paramount+)

Sheridan co-created this West Texas oil drama with journalist Christian Wallace, based on Wallace’s podcast and reporting. Billy Bob Thornton stars as Tommy Norris, a “landman” a fixer for the oil industry tasked with making problems disappear. Season 1 became the most-watched original series premiere in Paramount+ history. Season 2 set new records, pulling in more than 9.2 million global streams in its first two days a 200-percent jump from Season 1’s debut. Paramount+ renewed it for Season 3 in December 2025, while Season 2 was still airing. Season 2 wrapped in January 2026. Season 3 is coming.

The Madison (Paramount+)

A standalone Sheridan series not connected to the Yellowstone universe, despite early reports suggesting otherwise. Michelle Pfeiffer leads as Stacy Clyburn, the matriarch of a New York family that relocates to Montana’s Madison River Valley. Kurt Russell plays her husband Preston, with Matthew Fox as Paul and Patrick J. Adams rounding out a strong cast. Filmed in Montana, New York, and Texas, The Madison aired its seven-episode first season in March 2026. It is pure Sheridan placespecific, character-driven, and deeply interested in what happens when old money meets Western land.

Chris McCarthy

Marshals (CBS)

Y: Marshals now airing simply as Marshals on CBS is Sheridan’s first network television show, a Yellowstone spinoff that follows Kayce Dutton (Luke Grimes reprising his role from the flagship series) as he joins an elite U.S. Marshals team. The move to CBS was strategic: Sheridan wanted a broadcast platform to reach audiences who had never subscribed to Paramount+. The show premiered in spring 2026 and is a midseason CBS entry. Sheridan wrote all eight episodes of the first season.

Dutton Ranch (Paramount+)

The spinoff audiences had been asking about since Yellowstone ended: Beth and Rip. Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser reprise their roles as the Dutton family’s most combustible couple, now rebuilding in South Texas on a 7,000-acre ranch while facing a ruthless rival operation. Finn Little returns as Carter. Annette Bening, Ed Harris, and Jai Courtney co-star. Sheridan executive produces; Chad Feehan created the series, though Feehan was fired before the premiere amid reported friction with Reilly and Hauser and will not return for the already-renewed Season 2. Dutton Ranch premiered May 15, 2026, and runs through July 3 on Paramount+.

What Is in Development

Frisco King (Paramount+)

Samuel L. Jackson played Russell Lee Washington Jr. in Tulsa King Season 3 a hitman and former prison cellmate of Dwight Manfredi, who departs Tulsa to take over a crime organization of his own. Frisco King, now in production in Fort Worth, Texas (filming began March 2026), spins out Washington’s story. Sheridan took direct creative control of the series after original developer Dave Erickson departed the same move he made on Yellowstone Season 3, rewriting all scripts to fit his vision. Expected sometime in 2027.

What Is Coming Later in 2026

Lioness Season 3 (Paramount+)

Sheridan’s CIA thriller, starring Zoe Saldaña as operative Joe McNamara and Nicole Kidman as senior field leader Kaitlyn Meade, returns later in 2026. Season 2 was widely considered the stronger of the first two tighter, more emotionally complex, higher stakes. Filming for Season 3 began in late 2025, with a fall 2026 release anticipated.

Tulsa King — Season 4 (Paramount+)

Sylvester Stallone’s turn as Dwight “The General” Manfredi a New York mafioso dispatched to Tulsa to build a criminal empire continues with a fourth season confirmed by Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison in a May 2026 earnings call. Sheridan’s production pace has become remarkable even by his own standards: Tulsa King turned around Season 3 in under a year, and Season 4 has already wrapped production.

Mayor of Kingstown — Season 5 (Paramount+)

The Jeremy Renner-led crime drama the first script Sheridan ever wrote, predating Yellowstone will air its fifth and final season in 2026. Sheridan co-created the series with Hugh Dillon, and it has run for 40 episodes since its 2021 premiere. Season 4 aired in late 2025. The final chapter closes the book on the McLusky family and the bleak fictional world of Kingstown, Michigan, where incarceration is the only industry

6666 (Paramount+ Development Unknown)

One of the most anticipated and most delayed entries in the Sheridan universe. The 6666 Ranch spinoff was announced in 2021, set to follow Jimmy Hurdstram (Jefferson White) as he builds a new life at the historic Four Sixes in Texas the same ranch that Sheridan himself now owns an interest in, having been part of a group that purchased it for approximately $192 million. As of mid-2026, no production timeline has been confirmed. The show’s personal significance to Sheridan who grew up in the ranch’s shadow, where “just getting one of their horses was a status symbol” makes it almost certain to happen eventually. The timing remains unclear.

1944 (Paramount+ — Pre-Production)

The third Dutton-family period prequel, following 1883 and 1923, would be set during World War II. Announced in 2023, it has moved slowly. No cast, no premiere window, no confirmed production start as of this writing. Given the depth of Sheridan’s current schedule, this one appears to be a 2027-at-earliest proposition if not later, given the NBCUniversal transition.

F.A.S.T. (Film Post-Production)

An action thriller film, not a television series, featuring 1923 alum Brandon Sklenar and Sam Claflin. Targeted for 2027. Part of the film side of Sheridan’s expanding NBCUniversal deal.

Call of Duty (Film — 2028)

Sheridan is writing the Call of Duty feature film adaptation, scheduled for 2028. It represents the clearest early signal of what his NBCUniversal era will look like a broader canvas, larger scale film projects, and properties with global franchise potential beyond the Western genre.

In every town and city where horses are part of the landscape, elections matter. They matter not just for roads, taxes, and schools, but for the future of the horse community itself. The people we elect to city councils, county boards, planning commissions, and state offices are the people who decide how land is used, how zoning is enforced, whether equestrian facilities are protected, and whether the rural

Vote to Protect the Horse Community

and horse-centered way of life has a place in the future

The horse community is more than a hobby. It is part of the fabric of our towns. Horses bring families together. They support feed stores, farriers, veterinarians, trainers, boarding barns, arenas, youth programs, rodeos, trail riders, 4-H, FFA, therapy programs, and local events that help

define the character of our communities. A strong horse community creates economic activity, teaches responsibility, preserves open space, and keeps alive traditions that helped build the West.

But those values do not protect themselves.

Across Arizona and across the country, equestrian rights are often lost quietly, one ordinance at a time. A zoning

change here. A complaintdriven rule there. A trail access restriction. A new development plan that pushes barns and arenas out of the picture. A county policy that no longer understands agricultural or equestrian use. By the time the horse community notices, the decision may already be made. That is why voting matters.

Many local elections are won by a very slim margin. Sometimes a city council seat, mayor’s race, school board position, or legislative district contest is decided by only a few hundred votes or even less. That means horse owners, ranch families, trainers, breeders, competitors, and supporters can make a real difference when they vote together for candidates who understand our values.

We need elected representatives who know that horses are not a nuisance. They are not an outdated use of land. They are not something to be pushed aside every time development comes knocking. Horses are part of who we are. They represent family, discipline, agriculture, sport, business, open space, and freedom.

It is easy to gallop away from politics. It is easy to say one vote will not matter, or that someone else will handle it. But that cannot be our future. If we want to protect riding trails, horse properties, boarding barns, arenas, youth events, agricultural exemptions, and equestrian businesses, then we must stand strong in our towns and cities.

The primary way we protect our equestrian rights is by electing people who share our values before the decisions are made. Once the wrong people are in office, they are the ones calling the shots. They appoint the committees. They approve the plans. They shape the rules.

The horse community must be heard at the ballot box.

Vote for candidates who understand the importance of horses in our communities.

WHERE RODEO WAS BORN

Prescott’s World’s Oldest Rodeo Turns 139

There are rodeos, and then there is Prescott.

On July 4, 1888, a group of Arizona merchants and businessmen did something no one had ever done before: they organized a formalized cowboy competition, posted cash prizes, and invited riders to compete. A cowboy named Juan Leivas walked off with the title and the sport of professional rodeo was born. The moment was documented in the Arizona Journal-Miner, and the date became the birthday of American rodeo as we know it.

One hundred and thirty-nine years later, that same celebration continues. Not as a revival. Not as a tribute. The same rodeo, unbroken, on the same Arizona soil never missing a single year since 1888

This summer, when the 139th annual World’s Oldest Rodeo® opens on June 29 in Prescott, it will do so against a backdrop unlike any it has had before. This is America’s 250th birthday. The nation’s Semiquincentennial. And Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc. has embraced the moment fully, anchoring the 2026 edition around the theme “Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom” a recognition that the cowboy tradition and the American tradition are, at their roots, the same story.

“The World’s Oldest Rodeo embodies the values that helped shape America,” reads the official message from Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc. It is not hyperbole. It is local fact.

139 Years Without Missing a Step

That kind of institutional will doesn’t exist in many places. In Prescott, it’s simply who they are.

The rodeo was born at what was then called Forbing Park a roped-off piece of unimproved land on Iron Springs Road, where unsaddled broncs sometimes bolted clean out of the “arena.” The WPA and CCC built the grandstand and stone buildings in the 1930s; the Pardee and Freeman buildings still bear their names. Celebrities like Tom Mix competed in the arena. Will Rogers watched from the stands.

The story of how this rodeo survived is as compelling as the rodeo itself. In the 1940s, with the country at war and finances strained, there was genuine talk of shutting the event down. A group of young Prescott men stepped in, banned professional cowboys, leaned on local ranchers, and kept it going. They didn’t let the war stop it. They didn’t let money stop it. In 1984, several committee members signed personal notes on their own homes to guarantee the rodeo’s survival. The World’s Oldest Rodeo has been held through world wars, economic depressions, and a global pandemic. It has never missed a year.

TR Dual Rey

$5 million sire died in June.

Owner SDP Buffalo Ranch announced the death of $5 million sire TR Dual Rey on June 1.

“He suffered a heart attack shortly after his morning collection,” the ranch wrote on social media. “He went quickly, and it was a tender mercy to have been there with him for his last breaths. It is no exaggeration to say that TR Dual Rey changed my life and the life of my family. The vast majority of anyone who knows me today is because of that horse. I have made thousands of connections on six continents because of him. As my team huddled close around me - ‘TR’ laying peacefully on the ground - I thanked him out loud. He laid the foundation that made everything possible.

“All horses go to heaven. He’s already enjoying the best paddock in the kingdom.”

TR Dual Rey was a 1999 son of Dual Rey, out of Peppys Misty Oaks by Candy Bar Peppy.

In 1972, a stock contractor named Harry Vold began furnishing livestock and still does. That same year, Steve McQueen showed up to film Junior Bonner right in the middle of the actual rodeo. Prescott didn’t shut down for Hollywood. Hollywood came to Prescott.

In 1985, the U.S. Patent Office registered the name “World’s Oldest Rodeo” based on five qualifying criteria. In 2008, Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc. became one of only sixteen rodeos in history inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. Since 2018, USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards has listed it among the nation’s top five rodeos every single year. In 2026, it ranked fifth in the country.

Eight Performances, One Week

The 2026 edition runs June 29 through July 5, with eight performances at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds on Rodeo Drive. Events include the full roster of professional rodeo competition: bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, steer wrestling, tiedown roping, women’s breakaway roping, and mutton bustin’ for the kids.

The specialty acts this year are headlined by trick riders Rider and Bethany Kiesner, and the crowd-favorite Broken Spoke Clydesdales. Justin Rumford a nine-time PRCA Clown of the Year and barrelman returns to work the barrel, backed by bullfighters Beau Schueth and Quirt Hunt. Announcers Randy Corley and James Horcasitas call the action.

The parade on July 4th Arizona’s second-largest parade winds through historic downtown Prescott starting at 9 a.m. This year’s Grand Marshals represent the theme of “Past, Present and Future.” Leading the procession are ProRodeo Hall of Famer and legendary bullfighter Arleigh Bonnaha; two-time Saddle Bronc Champion and current General Manager Jim Dewey Brown; 2025 NHSRA Bareback Champion Braylon Johnson; and Prescott youth standout Bodee Oles.

“Our rich history is the foundation that built the World’s Oldest Rodeo,” said Brown, who took over as General Manager in 2021 and has since overseen significant growth in ticket sales, sponsorships, facility upgrades, and new events including breakaway roping and the Youth Initiative Program. “I’m deeply honored to represent the Past, Present and Future of rodeo.”

After the performances, the celebration spreads into town the Rodeo Dance runs July 2, 3, and 4 at the Sprouts Parking lot and Depot Marketplace, starting at 8 p.m. Whiskey Row, the plaza, and the restaurants and galleries of downtown Prescott fill for the week with rodeo energy. The Fourth of July in Prescott is something that has to be experienced to be understood.

The 2026 World’s Oldest Rodeo June 29 – July 5, 2026

Prescott Rodeo Grounds | 840 Rodeo Dr., Prescott, AZ 86305

Tickets: worldsoldestrodeo.com | (928) 445-4320

App: Search “RODEO 1888” on Apple or Google Play

Performances nightly at 7:30 p.m. (Saturday matinee 1:30 p.m. and evening; Sunday matinee 1:30 p.m.)

Rodeo Parade: Saturday, July 4, 9:00 a.m., downtown Prescott

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

6/12/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights

Open 5D barrel racing series at Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre (covered arena), Queen Creek, Arizona. 6:30 PM. Exhibitions 4:30–6:00 PM, $10 unlimited per horse. Entry fees: Open 5D $55, Youth 4D $35, Rookie 3D (21 sec or slower) $25, Peewee 8 & Under $10 (100% payback), Arena fee $15 per horse/run. Cash only. 5 custom saddles and 13 buckles awarded plus weekly giveaways and series end prizes. Must attend 8 of 12 jackpots and be present and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates: June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-432-4382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@ gmail.com. 602-432-4382

BARREL RACING

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

6/19/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights

gmail.com. 602-432-4382

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

6/26/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights Open 5D barrel racing series at Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre (covered arena), Queen Creek, Arizona. 6:30 PM. Exhibitions 4:30–6:00 PM, $10 unlimited per horse. Entry fees: Open 5D $55, Youth 4D $35, Rookie 3D (21 sec or slower) $25, Peewee 8 & Under $10 (100% payback), Arena fee $15 per horse/run. Cash only. 5 custom saddles and 13 buckles awarded plus weekly giveaways and series end prizes. Must attend 8 of 12 jackpots and be present and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates: June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com. 602-432-4382

DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

6/5/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ BR Diamond Spur Barrel Production Summer Nights Open 5D barrel racing series at Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre (covered arena), Queen Creek, Arizona. 6:30 PM. Exhibitions 4:30–6:00 PM, $10 unlimited per horse. Entry fees: Open 5D $55, Youth 4D $35, Rookie 3D (21 sec or slower) $25, Peewee 8 & Under $10 (100% payback), Arena fee

$15 per horse/run. Cash only. 5 custom saddles and 13 buckles awarded plus weekly giveaways and series end prizes. Must attend 8 of 12 jackpots and be present and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates: June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com. 602-4324382

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

7/10/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel Production Summer Nights Open 5D barrel racing series at Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre (covered arena), Queen Creek, Arizona. 6:30 PM. Exhibitions 4:30–6:00 PM, $10 unlimited per horse. Entry fees: Open 5D $55, Youth 4D $35, Rookie 3D (21 sec or slower) $25, Peewee 8 & Under $10 (100% payback), Arena fee $15 per horse/run. Cash only. 5 custom saddles and 13 buckles awarded plus weekly giveaways and series end prizes. Must attend 8 of 12 jackpots and be present and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates: June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com. 602-432-4382

VERDE VALLEY BARREL RACE

VERDE VALLEY FAIR ARENA

7/11/26

Verde Valley Fair Arena, Camp Verde, AZ Verde Valley Barrel Race at Verde Valley Fair Arena, Camp Verde, Arizona. Saturday July 11, 2026. Books open and time onlys at 4:00 PM, race starts 6:30 PM. Cash only — no exceptions. Enter on SaddleBook. Entry fees: Open $50 ($1,000 added), Senior $35, Youth $35, Novice (20 sec & slower) $30, Peewee $10. FMI call or text Renee 928-202-9001. 928-202-9001

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS

OPEN 5D

7/17/26

or slower) $25, Peewee 8 & Under $10 (100% payback), Arena fee $15 per horse/run. Cash only. 5 custom saddles and 13 buckles awarded plus weekly giveaways and series end prizes. Must attend 8 of 12 jackpots and be present and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates:

June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com.

602-432-4382

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

7/24/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights

June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com.

602-432-4382

BR DIAMOND

SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

7/3/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights

BARREL RACING

and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates: June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com.

602-432-4382

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

8/14/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights

602-432-4382

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D 8/21/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel Production Summer Nights

June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com. 602-432-4382

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

8/28/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights

8 of 12 jackpots and be present and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates: June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com. 602-432-4382

BR DIAMOND SPUR SUMMER NIGHTS OPEN 5D

8/7/26

Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ BR Diamond Spur Barrel

Production Summer Nights

Open 5D barrel racing series at Horseshoe Park Equestrian Centre (covered arena), Queen Creek, Arizona. 6:30 PM. Exhibitions 4:30–6:00 PM, $10 unlimited per

CONTINUED PAGE 53 EVENT LISTINGS ARE FREE SEND US YOURS! email: BridleandBit@aol.com

horse. Entry fees: Open 5D $55, Youth 4D $35, Rookie 3D (21 sec or slower) $25, Peewee 8 & Under $10 (100% payback), Arena fee $15 per horse/run. Cash only. 5 custom saddles and 13 buckles awarded plus weekly giveaways and series end prizes. Must attend 8 of 12 jackpots and be present and entered at final jackpot to qualify for awards. Series dates: June 5, 12, 19, 26 | July 3, 10, 17, 24 | August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026. FMI Ron Phelan 602-4324382, Jinia Root 480-788-5509, racebrds@gmail.com. 602-4324382

BUCKLES AND BARRELS FOR BAILEY

9/4/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV Buckles and Barrels for Bailey at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Three days of barrel racing competition and celebration raising funds for a meaningful cause. Free to the public. Visit

bucklesandbarrels4bailey.com for entry information, divisions and schedule. 702-797-8005 https:// bucklesandbarrels4bailey.com/

CUTTING

PCCHA REYZIN THE CASH DERBY

6/5/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV PCCHA Reyzin The Cash Derby at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Ten days of Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association competition featuring the top cutting horses and riders on the West Coast. Free to the public. Visit pccha.com for entry information and full class schedule. 702-797-8005 https:// pccha.com/

PCCHA HOLY COW PERFORMANCE HORSES AND SUPER FUTURITY

9/21/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian

Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV

PCCHA Holy Cow Performance Horses and Super Futurity at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Six days of Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association futurity competition featuring young horses and top trainers competing for major prizes. Free to the public. Visit pccha.com for full schedule. 702-797-8005 https://pccha.com/

GYMKHANA TRI CITY SPEEDSTERS

GYMKHANA

SADDLE SERIES

6/27/26

Olsen’s Events Arena, 344 S Hwy 89, Chino Valley, AZ Tri City Speedsters 2026 Gymkhana Saddle Series at Olsen’s Events Arena in Chino Valley. Exciting speed events for riders of all ages and experience levels. Classes include Lead Line, Walk Trot, Cow Pokes, Speed Limit/Slower Speeds, Buckaroos 10 & Under, Junior Mustangs 11-

13, Senior Mustangs 14-17, Silver Spurs 18-49, and Rusty Spurs 50+. Enter at Saddlebook.com. Rain out date July 11. Ashley 970-739-3765

www.tricitspeedsters.com

TRI CITY SPEEDSTERS

GYMKHANA

SADDLE SERIES

6/6/26

Olsen’s Events Arena, 344 S Hwy 89, Chino Valley, AZ Tri City Speedsters 2026

Gymkhana Saddle Series at Olsen’s Events Arena in Chino Valley. Exciting speed events for riders of all ages and experience levels. Classes include Lead Line, Walk Trot, Cow Pokes, Speed Limit/Slower Speeds, Buckaroos 10 & Under, Junior Mustangs 1113, Senior Mustangs 14-17, Silver Spurs 18-49, and Rusty Spurs 50+. Enter at Saddlebook.com. Rain out date July 11. Ashley 970-739-3765

www.tricitspeedsters.com

SCOTTSDALE SADDLE CLUB GYMKHANA

9/19/26

Scottsdale Rodeo Grounds, Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale Saddle Club gymkhana at the Rodeo Grounds featuring professional grade ground and facilities with divisions for every level of rider. Part of the 2026 season series running monthly through December. Visit scottsdalesaddleclub. com for full details, classes, and entry information. www. scottsdalesaddleclub.com

HORSE SHOWS

PACIFIC RIDGE SHOW JUMPING SUMMER 1

6/5/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Summer 1 at LAEC — part of the 10-event 2026 series spanning April through October at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. Nationallevel hunter/jumper competition with new footing upgrades. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive. com. 818-840-9063 https:// pacificridgeshowjumping.com

CHINO VALLEY EQUESTRIAN PARK DRIVING SCHOOLING SHOW

6/6/26

Chino Valley Equestrian Park, 2208 Equestrian Way, Chino Valley, AZ

Chino Valley Equestrian Park Driving Schooling Show, Saturday June 6, 2026 at 2208 Equestrian Way, Chino Valley, AZ 86323. Start time 9:00 AM. Judge: Sandy Joyce. Show classes include

Super Reinsmanship, Turnout, Working and Cones, including a Cones Challenge. All types of turnouts welcome — from minis to drafts, multiple hitches. Overnight camping available. Registration opens May 15, 2026. Register at cvequestrianpark. org/driving-show-series. FMI events@cvequestrianpark.org. cvequestrianpark.org

CHINO VALLEY EQUESTRIAN PARK DRIVING DARBY

6/7/26

Chino Valley Equestrian Park, 2208 Equestrian Way, Chino Valley, AZ

Chino Valley Equestrian Park Driving Darby, Sunday June 7, 2026 at 2208 Equestrian Way, Chino Valley, AZ 86323. Start time 9:00 AM. Judge: Gary Gang. All types of turnouts welcome — from minis to drafts, multiple hitches. Overnight camping available. Register at cvequestrianpark. org/driving-show-series. FMI events@cvequestrianpark.org. cvequestrianpark.org

ADA SUMMER HEAT RECOGNIZED SHOW

6/13/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona Dressage Association’s Summer Heat recognized show offers USDF/USEF qualifyingscore opportunities in a professionally managed setting at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Open to multiple levels and divisions, including Para Dressage and Western Dressage, with scheduling designed to avoid peak heat. Ideal for riders targeting championships and year-end awards. https://azdressage. org/event/ada-summer-heatrecognized-show/

CONTINUED PAGE 56

ADA SOME MORE SUMMER HEAT RECOGNIZED SHOW

6/14/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

Back-to-back with Summer Heat, ADA’s Some More Summer Heat recognized show provides another full day to earn USDF/USEF qualifying scores at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Competitors can maximize travel by riding both days, with divisions spanning Intro through Grand Prix plus Para and Western Dressage options. A strong mid-summer checkpoint for fall goals. https://azdressage.org/ event/ada-some-more-summerheat/

FOUR REEL FARM SUMMER IN FLAGSTAFF HORSE SHOW

6/18/26

Four Reel Farm, Flagstaff, AZ

Four Reel Farm presents the Summer in Flagstaff Horse Show, June 18–21, 2026 in

HORSE SHOWS

Flagstaff, Arizona. Join us in the cool pines for a show full of fun and laughter. Class list and entry information available at fourreelfarm.net. Pre-entries close Monday June 1. Produced by Collman Equestrian Productions. Questions: fourreelfarm@gmail. com. fourreelfarm.net

GOLD RUSH CLASSIC PERUVIAN HORSE SHOW

6/19/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV

Gold Rush Classic Peruvian Horse Show at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Three days of Southern California Peruvian Paso Horse Club competition showcasing the elegance and smooth gait of Peruvian horses. Free to the public. Visit scpphc.org for class schedule and entry details. 702797-8005 https://scpphc.org/grc/

THE CELEBRATION EMO

6/25/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd

South, Las Vegas, NV

The Celebration at South Point Arena in Las Vegas — eleven days of premier NSBA and EMO western performance horse competition. One of the largest western horse shows in the country featuring ranch riding, reining, cow horse and more. Free to the public. Visit thecelebrationlasvegas.com. 702-797-8005 https://www. thecelebrationlasvegas.com/

CENTRAL ARIZONA RIDING ACADEMY (CARA) SCHOOLING SHOW SERIES

6/27/26

Central Arizona Riding Academy (CARA), 41656 N Rattlesnake Rd, San Tan Valley, AZ

CARA’s late-June schooling show is a one-day dressage test event built for practical show experience and helpful judge feedback. A good option for riders wanting to keep horses in a consistent competition routine through the summer. Visit CARA online for entries, schedules, and any division updates. (480) 580-0634 https://azdressage. org/event/central-arizona-ridingacademy-schooling-showseries/2026-06-27/

INSPIRE THE SPIRIT HORSE SHOW WOODEN-BRIDGE RANCH 6/27/26

Wooden-Bridge Ranch, 291 N. 8355, Concho, AZ Inspire the Spirit Horse Show at Wooden-Bridge Ranch,

291 N. 8355, Concho, Arizona 85924, Saturday June 27, 2026. Registration 7:30 AM, competition begins 8:00 AM. Entry: $10/ class or $50 for the day. 22 classes: 1. Showmanship Junior Handlers, 2. Showmanship Senior Handlers, 3. Simon Says, 4. Western Pleasure Walk/Jog Only, 5. Western Pleasure Riders 8–12, 6. Western Pleasure Riders 13–17, 7. Western Pleasure Riders 18+, 8. Egg & Spoon, 9. Western Horsemanship Riders 8–12, 10. Western Horsemanship Riders 13–17, 11. Western Horsemanship Riders 18+, 12. Ranch Versatility Walk/Jog Only, 13. Ranch Versatility, 14. Gaited Horse Pleasure Walk/Gait, 15. Gaited Horse Pleasure Walk/Gait/ Lope, 16. Hunter Under Saddle Walk/Trot Only, 17. Hunter Under Saddle Riders 8–12, 18. Hunter Under Saddle Riders 13–17, 19. Hunter Under Saddle Riders 18+, 20. Hunt Seat Equitation Riders 8–12, 21. Hunt Seat Equitation Riders 13–17, 22. Hunt Seat Equitation Riders 18+. Contact: 602-791-1723 or trishzaabe@ gmail.com. | Entry Fee: $10/class or $50 for the day 602-791-1723

AHAA ONE DAY HORSE SHOW

6/27/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ Arabian Horse Association of Arizona (AHAA) One Day Horse Show at WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260. June 27, 2026. Featuring a new and updated class schedule and all breed classes. Proudly presented by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona.

WDAAZ WESTERN DRESSAGE SHOW CHINO VALLEY

6/28/26

Chino Valley Equestrian Park, 2208 Equestrian Way, Chino Valley, AZ Western Dressage of Arizona

HORSE SHOWS

(WDAAZ) Chino Valley June 2026 show at Chino Valley Equestrian Park, 2208 Equestrian Way, Chino Valley, Arizona 86323. Sunday June 28, 2026. WDAA & AQHA Recognized show. Judge: Cynthia Ganem — ‘R’ WD. Open to all breeds — Western, Gaited, Classical Dressage, Physically Challenged & Therapeutic. Intro through Fifth Level classes (2022 tests). Freestyles welcome. Entries open May 17, 2026; closing date June 14, 2026.

WDAAZ CHINO VALLEY WESTERN DRESSAGE SHOW

6/28/26

Chino Valley Equestrian Park, 2208 Equestrian Way, Prescott, AZ Western Dressage of Arizona (WDAAZ) Chino Valley show, Sunday June 28, 2026 at Chino Valley Equestrian Park, 2208 Equestrian Way, Prescott, AZ 86323. Open to all breeds –Western, Gaited, Classical Dressage, Physically Challenged & Therapeutic. Intro through Fifth Level Classes (2022 tests). Freestyles Welcome. WDAA & AQHA Recognized. Judge: Cynthia Ganem ‘R’ WD. Entries open May 17, close June 14, 2026.

PACIFIC RIDGE SHOW JUMPING SUMMER 2

7/10/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Summer 2 at LAEC — part of the 10-event 2026 series spanning April through October at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. Regionallevel hunter/jumper competition with new footing upgrades. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive. com. 818-840-9063 https:// pacificridgeshowjumping.com

EVENT LISTINGS ARE FREE

SEND US YOURS! email: BridleandBit@aol.com

2026 YEAR OF THE HORSE OBSTACLE CHALLENGE WOODEN BRIDGE EQUESTRIAN CENTER

7/11/26

Wooden Bridge Equestrian Center, 291 N. 8355, Concho, AZ 2026 Year of the Horse Obstacle Challenge at Wooden Bridge Equestrian Center, 291 N. 8355, Concho, Arizona 85924, Saturday July 11, 2026. Start at 8:00 AM. Novice and Advanced levels, both In Hand and Under Saddle. $25 per class. Lunch available. Horses, fun, friends, food! For more information and reservation contact Trish at 602-791-1723. | Entry Fee: $25/class 602-791-1723

MORGAN

MEDALLION CLASSIC CHARITY HORSE SHOW

7/15/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV

Morgan Medallion Classic Charity Horse Show at South Point’s Priefert Pavilion in Las Vegas. Five days of Morgan horse competition raising funds for charity. Free to the public. A showcase of the Morgan breed’s versatility and athleticism. Visit morganmedallion. com for entry and schedule info. 702-797-8005 http://www. morganmedallion.com/

SCHOOLING SHOW (NACADA)

FREEMAN FARMS

7/18/26

Freeman Farms, 1096 E. Road 3 South, Chino Valley, AZ

NACADA’s July schooling show at Freeman Farms offers classical and western dressage tests in a welcoming, educational setting. Designed for riders seeking mileage, feedback, and a relaxed competition day in Northern Arizona. Entries and show specifics are posted on NACADA’s calendar and entry page. https:// azdressage.org/event/schooling-

HORSE SHOWS

show-nacada/2026-07-18/

PACIFIC RIDGE SHOW JUMPING SUMMER 3

8/7/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Summer 3 at LAEC — part of the 10-event 2026 series spanning April through October at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. Nationallevel hunter/jumper competition with new footing upgrades. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive. com. 818-840-9063 https:// pacificridgeshowjumping.com

PACIFIC RIDGE SHOW JUMPING FALL 1

9/11/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Fall 1 at LAEC — part of the 10-event 2026 series spanning April through October at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank.

Regional-level hunter/jumper competition with new footing upgrades. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive. com. 818-840-9063 https:// pacificridgeshowjumping.com

SILVER BUCKLE AVS SHOW

9/4/26

Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, AZ

Southern Arizona Arabian Horse Association presents the Silver Buckle AVS Show, September 4-6, 2026 at Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Arizona. Buckles by Dale Chavez. Judges: AHA Judge Tracy Lynch (WI), Working Western Judge Tamara Burkman (CA), Sport Horse Judge Jay Arend (AZ). Mrs Bazy Tankersley Sport Horse High Point Award. High Point Adult Amateur Rider, High Point Junior Rider, High Point Walk Trot 10 & Under English & Western. Open Breed Division with 4 High Point Silver Buckles. Morning Hospitality, Exhibitors Dinner on Saturday, Ice Cream Social on Sunday.

SCHOOLING SHOW (NACADA)

FREEMAN FARMS

9/5/26

Freeman Farms, 1096 E. Road 3 South, Chino Valley, AZ

September NACADA schooling show at Freeman Farms in Chino Valley features classical and western dressage tests with a supportive show atmosphere. A strong tune-up before fall championships and recognized shows, with an emphasis on learning and good horsemanship. See NACADA’s entry page for the latest details and forms. https:// azdressage.org/event/schoolingshow-nacada/2026-09-05/

MOUNTED SHOOTING

BEAT THE HEAT SHOOTOUT

ACMSA RELOADED NORTHERN AZ RIDING STABLES

6/20/26

Northern AZ Riding Stables at Savi Ranch, 3090 Old Munds HWY, Flagstaff, AZ

Beat The Heat Shootout presented by ACMSA Reloaded at Northern AZ Riding Stables at Savi Ranch, 3090 Old Munds HWY, Flagstaff, Arizona 86005, June 20–21, 2026. 5X CMSA and 5X ACMSA points. Two-day 4-stage match — Rifle and Shotgun. $5,000 added money and Usher Brand buckles to all class winners. Main Match: $200 + $50 office fee, 50% payback, 90/10 split. 5K added to classes. Rifle and Shotgun: $100, no gender split, 50% payback. Wranglers $15 (running last/first each day). Clean Shooter $40. 3D Jackpot each stage $20. Pre-pay event via Zelle: acmsa2017@gmail.com or Venmo

@macadoosmom. Saturday after match: El Tapatio Mexican catered feast, music, adult beverages and games — free to all entrants and their families. DJ Carma on mic, choose your own songs to ride to. Dry camping and stalls through NARS direct — Barn Mgr Kelly: 304-992-8533. FMI contact Diana at 520-661-6464. 520-661-6464

CMSA WESTERN US CHAMPIONSHIP

7/23/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV CMSA Western US Championship at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Four days of Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association western regional championship competition. Riders in period costume shoot balloon targets at full gallop. Free to the public. Visit cmsaevents.com for division and entry info. 702-797-8005 https:// cmsaevents.com/

POLO

WILL ROGERS POLO CLUB - EQUIDOME WOMEN’S CHALLENGE

8/19/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 W Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA Will Rogers Polo Club Equidome Women’s Challenge arena polo tournament at LAEC. Two days of women’s arena polo competition inside the iconic Equidome. Free for spectators. An exciting and accessible introduction to the sport of polo for Los Angeles fans. Visit thelaec.com for details. 818-840-9063 https://thelaec.com

email: BridleandBit@aol.com

REINING

NATIONAL STOCK HORSE ASSOCIATION FUTURITY AND DERBY

8/18/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd

South, Las Vegas, NV

National Stock Horse Association

Futurity and Derby at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Six days of NSHA competition showcasing top stock horses in ranch riding, reining and cow horse events. Free to the public. Visit nationalstockhorse.com for class schedule and entry details. 702-797-8005 https://nationalstockhorse.com/

THE RUN FOR A MILLION

9/12/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd

South, Las Vegas, NV

The Run For A Million at South Point Arena — the richest reining event in the world with a $1 million purse. Features Reining, Cutting Horse Challenge, Cow Horse Challenge, Youth and Non-Pro events. Free general admission with ticketed championship nights. Visit therunforamillion.com. 702797-8005 https://therunforamillion. com/

HIGH ROLLER REINING CLASSIC HORSE SHOW

10/10/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, 9777 Las Vegas Blvd

South, Las Vegas, NV

High Roller Reining Classic at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Eight days of premier NRHAaffiliated reining competition. One of the most prestigious reining

events of the fall season with Open, Non-Pro, Amateur and Youth divisions. Free to the public. Visit highrollerreiningclassic. com. 702-797-8005 http://www. highrollerreiningclassic.com/

RODEO

FLAGSTAFF PRO RODEO

6/4/26

Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, AZ

Flagstaff Pro Rodeo, June 4-6, 2026 at Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, AZ 86001. PRCA-sanctioned rodeo featuring bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, barrel racing, bull riding, and breakaway roping. Held in the tall ponderosa pines at the Coconino County Fort Tuthill grandstands. Three evening performances under the dark sky of Northern Arizona. Gates open 5:00 PM, rodeo runs 7:00-9:00 PM. General admission $25, ages 6-17 $15, children 5 and under free. Stalls available at $25/night, contact 480-254-3200. Tickets available at flagstaffrodeo.com. 480-254-3200 flagstaffrodeo.com

BULL BASH CHAMPIONSHIP BULLRIDING

6/12/26

Stargazer Pavilion - Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, 555 Middle Verde Rd, Camp Verde, AZ Bull Bash Championship Bullriding returns to Stargazer Pavilion at Cliff Castle Casino in Camp Verde. Open $3,000 added/$100 entry, Novice $500 added/$75 entry, both 100% payback. Mutton Bustin’ 6 & under $20 at 6:30 PM. Entries open June 1–5. Text 928821-0489 to enter. 928-821-0489 https://cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

TURQUOISE CIRCUIT

PRCA RODEO - EL PASO TX

6/19/26

El Paso Rodeo Arena, El Paso, TX Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo in El Paso, TX. Three days of professional rodeo on the Texas-New Mexico border. Features all PRCA events with strong participation from Texas, New Mexico and Arizona cowboys. Visit hiloprorodeo.com for tickets and competitor information. https://hiloprorodeo.com

TURQUOISE CIRCUIT PRCA RODEOSANTA FE NM

6/25/26

Rodeo de Santa Fe Grounds, Santa Fe, NM

Rodeo de Santa Fe — Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo in Santa Fe, NM. Three days of professional rodeo in the historic City of Holy Faith. Features all PRCA events. One of the most scenic rodeo settings in the Southwest combining world-class competition with New Mexico culture. Visit rodeodesantafe.org. https://rodeodesantafe.org

WORLD’S OLDEST RODEO – PRESCOTT FRONTIER DAYS

6/29/26

Prescott Rodeo Grounds, 840 Rodeo Dr, Prescott, AZ Prescott Frontier Days World’s Oldest Rodeo, June 29 - July 5, 2026 at Prescott Rodeo Grounds, 840 Rodeo Dr., Prescott, AZ 86305. The 139th annual World’s Oldest Rodeo celebrating its theme ‘Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom’ in honor of America’s Semiquincentennial. Eight PRCA performances featuring bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, women’s breakaway roping, and Wild Horse Race. Entertainment: trick riders Rider and Bethany Kiesner, the Broken Spoke Clydesdales, nine-time PRCA Clown of the Year Justin Rumford, bullfighters Beau Schueth and Quirt Hunt, announcers Randy Corley and James Horcasitas. July 4 parade through downtown Prescott (Arizona’s second-largest parade), rodeo dances, community events.

Tickets at worldsoldestrodeo.com.

Contact: (928) 445-3103. (928) 445-3103 worldsoldestrodeo.com

TURQUOISE CIRCUIT

PRCA

RODEO

LOVINGTON NM LEA COUNTY FAIR

7/31/26

Lea County Fair & Rodeo Grounds, Lovington, NM Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo at the Lea County Fair in Lovington, NM. Nine days of professional rodeo and fair activities in southeastern New Mexico. Features all PRCA events. One of the longer-running circuit events on the New Mexico leg of the Turquoise Circuit. Visit leacountyfair.net. https://www. leacountyfair.net

WORLD’S OLDEST CONTINUOUS RODEO – PAYSON PRO RODEO

8/20/26

Payson Event Center, South Beeline Highway, Payson, AZ World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo, August 20-22, 2026 at Payson Event Center, Payson, AZ. For over 140 years Payson has hosted this PRCA-sanctioned rodeo, named ‘Best Small Town Rodeo’ by True West Magazine. Full PRCA rodeo events: bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, team roping, barrel racing, women’s breakaway, mutton bustin’ and Jr. steer riding. Includes rodeo parade on Historic Main Street, live music, rodeo dance after performances, and family entertainment. Pre-rodeo Wednesday August 19 Chamber Mixer and Cowboy Cornhole at 5 PM. Purchase tickets online at paysonprorodeo.com. Contact the Payson Pro Rodeo Committee for more information. paysonprorodeo.com

TURQUOISE CIRCUIT

PRCA RODEOSOCORRO NM COUNTY FAIR

8/24/26

Socorro County Fairgrounds, Socorro, NM

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo at the Socorro County Fair in Socorro, NM. Two days of professional rodeo and county fair events in central New Mexico. Features all PRCA events. Visit socorronm.gov for schedule and event details. https://www. socorronm.gov/events/socorrocounty-fair-rodeo/

TURQUOISE CIRCUIT

PRCA RODEOSCOTTSDALE (FALL)

9/1/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo in Scottsdale, AZ — fall edition. Date TBA. Professional rodeo featuring all PRCA events at WestWorld of Scottsdale. One of two Scottsdale stops on the Turquoise Circuit. Visit rodeoscottsdale.com for confirmed dates and ticket information. https://rodeoscottsdale.com

TURQUOISE CIRCUIT

PRCA RODEO - NEW MEXICO STATE FAIR ALBUQUERQUE

9/10/26

New Mexico State Fairgrounds, 300 San Pedro Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo at the New Mexico State Fair in Albuquerque. Eleven days of professional rodeo at one of the largest state fairs

in the Southwest. Features all PRCA events. A major Turquoise Circuit points event drawing top competitors from AZ and NM. Visit statefair.exponm.com. https:// statefair.exponm.com

SONOITA RANCH RODEO – 2-DAY EVENT

9/12/26

Sonoita Ranch Rodeo Grounds, Sonoita, AZ

The Sonoita Ranch Rodeo will be hosting a 2-day event September 12 & 13, 2026. Full schedule and details coming soon. Check back for updates.

CHANDLER VAQUEROS SADDLE CLUB RODEO

Saturdays Sept-May

Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, 20464 E Riggs Road, Queen Creek, AZ

Chandler Vaqueros Saddle Club monthly rodeos at Horseshoe Park — season runs September through May. Events include Goat Pulling, Goat Tying, Barrel Racing, Pole Bending and Speed events. Age groups 3–8, 9–12, 13–18, 19–39 and 40+. Free for spectators. All levels welcome, volunteer-run nonprofit club. 480-358-3793

THIRSTY THURSDAY OPEN MIC AND BULL RIDING PRACTICE

Thursdays

Roadrunner Restaurant and Saloon, 47801 N Black Canyon Hwy, AZ

BridleandBit@aol.com

Weekly Thirsty Thursday night at Roadrunner Restaurant and Saloon on Black Canyon Hwy. Open Mic 6–9 PM with live music talent. Live Bull Riding Practice starts at 7 PM. A unique Arizona combo of country music and roughstock action every Thursday night.

SORTA SORTING PRACTICE & RANCH HORSE ACTIVITIES

Wednesdays/Saturdays

Flying E Ranch - New Arena, 28012 W Wickenburg Way, Wickenburg, AZ

Weekly sorta sorting practice plus obstacle course and trail course at Flying E Ranch’s new arena in Wickenburg. Wednesdays and Saturdays starting at 9 AM. Presented by Wickenburg’s Ultimate Ranch & Stock Horse Challenge. Open to all levels looking to sharpen their skills.

SPECIAL EVENTS

RUNNING WIND ACADEMY SUMMER HORSE CAMP

6/1/26

Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, AZ

Running Wind Academy Summer Horse Camps at Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, Arizona. Monday–Friday 7:30–11:00 AM. Ages 4–16, beginner through advanced riders welcome. Daily riding lesson, horsemanship classes, crafts and art every day, social-emotional work with animals and small group work. Cost $400/ week or $90/day. Contact Lisa Somers at 650-793-0010 or runningwindacademy@gmail.com. Sessions: June 1–5, 8–12, 15–19, 22–26; July 6–10, 13–17, 20–24, 2026. 650-793-0010

ASFA SUMMER CLINIC WITH CRAIG TRNKA – ARIZONA STATE FARRIERS ASSOCIATION

6/13/26

The Ranch at Cave Creek, 6206 E Rockaway Hills Dr, Cave Creek, AZ

Arizona State Farriers Association (AFA Chapter 26) Summer Clinic with Craig Trnka at The Ranch at Cave Creek, 6206 E Rockaway Hills Dr, Cave Creek, Arizona 85331, Saturday June 13, 2026. 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Focus areas: Education Through Competition, Introduction to Competing & the WCB, WCB Novice Shoes, and Hands-On Forging. Craig Trnka is an icon of the farrier industry — clinician, judge, multitime American Farriers Team member, and founder of the World Championship Blacksmiths (WCB). Lunch sponsored by Farrier Hub. RSVP required. Entry fee: $50 ASFA members / $100 non-members (ASFA membership included). RSVP to ASFA Secretary Jessica Kubiak (937) 475-6109 or @ ArizonaStateFarriersAssociation on Facebook & Instagram. (937) 475-6109 https:// www.facebook.com/ ArizonaStateFarriersAssociation

RUNNING WIND ACADEMY SUMMER HORSE CAMP

6/15/26

Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, AZ

social-emotional work with animals and small group work. Cost $400/ week or $90/day. Contact Lisa Somers at 650-793-0010 or runningwindacademy@gmail.com.

Sessions: June 1–5, 8–12, 15–19, 22–26; July 6–10, 13–17, 20–24, 2026. 650-793-0010

FACEBOOK SHOP LOCAL

For Personal Service Cell: 602-390-3555

EMAIL: bridleandbit@aol.com

Disclaimer

The Publisher and Editor cannot be held responsible for errors or any consequences arising from the use of information contained in this publication; the views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher and Editors, neither does the publication of advertisements constitute any endorsement by the Publisher and Editors of the products advertised.

SPECIAL EVENTS

ACE HIGH STABLES NIGHT RIDE - QUEEN CREEK FOOTHILLS TO SAN TAN FLATS

6/2/26

Ace High Stables LLC, Queen Creek, AZ

Ace High Stables LLC scenic night ride through the Queen Creek Foothills to San Tan Flats. $225 per rider includes 2 drink tickets and appetizer of choice. Ride out. Unwind. Make it count.

RUNNING WIND ACADEMY SUMMER HORSE CAMP

6/22/26

Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, AZ

riding lesson, horsemanship classes, crafts and art every day, social-emotional work with animals and small group work. Cost $400/ week or $90/day. Contact Lisa Somers at 650-793-0010 or runningwindacademy@gmail.com. Sessions: June 1–5, 8–12, 15–19, 22–26; July 6–10, 13–17, 20–24, 2026. 650-793-0010

SONG OF THE HORSE YOUTH CAMP 2026 – TUBA CITY FAIRGROUNDS RODEO ARENA

6/4/26

Tuba City Fairgrounds Rodeo Arena, Tuba City, AZ Song of the Horse Youth Camp 2026 at Tuba City Fairgrounds Rodeo Arena, Tuba City, Arizona, June 4–6, 2026. This is a FREE camp. 20 riding spots available plus unlimited non-riding spots for youth and adults. Limited horses available for participants without a horse. Boarding stalls available. Activities for youth and adults all 3 days. June 4: Native Traditional Horse Day, Horse Songs & Stories, Arena Riding Sessions. June 5: Horsemanship Presentations, Arena Riding Sessions, Equine Make-Over, Equine Facilitated Learning, Evening Arena Sessions. June 6: Horsemanship Presentations, Arena Riding Sessions, Equine Make-Over, Obstacle Course Challenge. Presenters & Instructors: Grey Farrell, Ty Jones, Kelsey John, Audre Etsitty, Valentina Clitso, Betsy Green, Juan Arias, Alisha Betoney, Leander Thomas, Herman Cody, Gene Shepherd, Ed Whitethorne. Sponsored by University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Tribal Extension Programs, University of Colorado Boulder Ethnic Studies, USDA/NIFA,

Native American Agriculture Fund, Dine College Land Grant Office. Registration & info: Grey Farrell 928-614-8403 or GFarrell@cals. arizona.edu. 928-614-8403

SADDLE UP FOR SANCTUARY ANIMAL GUARDIAN NETWORK AT HEALING RIVER RANCH

6/5/26

Buckin’ Burro Ranch, Prescott, AZ Saddle Up for Sanctuary fundraiser benefiting Animal Guardian Network at Healing River Ranch, Buckin’ Burro Ranch, Prescott, Arizona, June 5–7, 2026. Every ticket helps provide lifelong care for over 100 rescued animals. Proceeds support daily care, medical needs, and lifelong sanctuary for animals with nowhere else to go. Two ways to participate: Weekend Experience ($325 pass) — bring your horse for guided trail rides, chuckwagon meals, obstacle course & open riding, plus Saturday Shindig included; The Shindig Only ($125) — Saturday night live music featuring the Palomino Band, dinner & cocktail reception, silent + live auction, stories of salvation. No horse required for Shindig. Event Coordinator Carrie Singer — call or text 602-568-5636. Tickets at AnimalGuardianNetwork. org. 602-568-5636 https:// SaddleUp2026.eventbrite.com

RANDY HELM CLINIC – HORSEMANSHIP WITH TRAIL RIDING & NIGHT RIDING

6/5/26

Olsen’s Feed Arena, Chino Valley, AZ

Randy Helm Clinic — Horsemanship with a Focus on Trail Riding and Night Riding at Olsen’s Feed Arena, Chino Valley, Arizona. Friday & Saturday June 5–6, 2026, 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM (afternoon, evening, and night sessions). Basic horsemanship for all levels, geared toward beginner and intermediate riders.

Same principles used to train inmates, Law Enforcement, and Border Patrol. Cost: 00. Contact: helmhorsemanship@gmail.com.

WORKING EQUITATION CLINIC WITH TESSA NICOLET

6/6/26

Four Beat Ranch LLC, Concho, AZ

Working equitation clinic and private lessons with Tessa Nicolet, USAWE Professional Instructor and L Judge. Full day clinic covers dressage and obstacle handling. June 7 offers custom private lessons. New and experienced riders welcome. Camping and pens available. Sign up at CohesiveHorsemanship.com. www.CohesiveHorsemanship.com

OBSTACLE CLINIC AND CHALLENGE DOS LOMAS

6/6/26

Dos Lomas Wild Ranch, Snowflake, AZ

Obstacle Clinic and Challenge at Dos Lomas Wild Ranch in Snowflake — over 30 obstacles in

SPECIAL EVENTS

the White Mountains. Clinic 8–10 AM, open practice 10 AM–2 PM, challenge from 2 PM with awards. $75/horse-rider combo includes all. Gift for every entry, prizes for top 5. Contact: dlwildranch@gmail. com. 602-397-7070

OBSTACLE CLINIC & CHALLENGE — DOS LOMAS WILD RANCH

6/6/26

Dos Lomas Wild Ranch, Snowflake, AZ

Obstacle Clinic & Challenge at Dos Lomas Wild Ranch in Snowflake, AZ (White Mountains).

One-day event with over 30 obstacles. $75/horse-rider combo - includes clinic, day fee, open practice, and challenge entry. Gift for every entry. Prizes for top 5 placings. Awards at end of day. Schedule: 7 AM check-in; 8-10 AM clinic; 10 AM-2 PM open practice; 2 PM-end challenge. Dos Lomas Wild Ranch is a 501(c)3 non-profit. Contact: (760) 981-3018 or (602) 397-7070 | dlwildranch@gmail. com. (760) 981-3018

RUNNING WIND ACADEMY SUMMER HORSE CAMP

6/8/26

Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, AZ

HORSE CAMP & FUNKHANA & TRAIL CHALLENGE

6/9/26

Buckin Burro Ranch, Williamson Valley, AZ

20th Annual FUNdamentals Horse Camp at Buckin Burro Ranch near Prescott. Five days and four nights of horsemanship for girls ages 9-16. Includes meals, housing, stalls, individualized instruction, speed events, trail rides, daily challenges, award ceremony, and trophys. Indoor arena and trails. Limited to 24 spots. $200 deposit to reserve. 602-448-3910

EVENT LISTINGS

SEND US YOURS! email: BridleandBit@aol.com

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION MUTTON BUSTIN’ – WESTWORLD OF SCOTTSDALE

7/4/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

4th of July Celebration Mutton Bustin’ at WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona, Saturday July 4, 2026. Pure Courage. Big Smiles. All American. Limited to 50 riders. Kids hang on tight as they ride sheep in true Western rodeo tradition. Family fun, patriotic pride, and Western tradition. Part of the WestWorld 4th of July celebration. Let Freedom Ride!

2026 YEAR OF THE HORSE OBSTACLE CHALLENGE

7/11/26

Wooden Bridge Equestrian Center, 291 N. 8355, Concho, AZ 2026 Year of the Horse Obstacle Challenge at Wooden Bridge Equestrian Center. Novice and Advanced levels, both In Hand

SPECIAL EVENTS

and Under Saddle. $25 per class. Start 8 AM, lunch available. Horses, fun, friends, food. Contact Trish for reservations: 602-7911723. 602-791-1723

RUNNING WIND ACADEMY SUMMER HORSE CAMP

7/13/26

Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, AZ

2026 COCHISE COUNTY HORSE ACTIVITY DAY

7/18/26

The Arena Bar, Benson, AZ 2026 Cochise County Horse Activity Day at The Arena Bar, Benson, Arizona, Saturday July 18, 2026, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Building Knowledge. Building Confidence. Building the Future. Open to all interested youth — 4H, FFA, and open youth. Cost: 0. Guest Speaker: Mollie Green. Activities planned include: Judging (Halter, English Equitation Flat, and Reining Class); Written Test; Grain Identification; Tack Identification; Hippology / Skilla-thon / Knowledge Contest; Cloverbud Craft Project and Horse Pattern. Awards provided including Overall High Point Junior and Senior. Learn. Compete. Grow. Memories Made. Skills for Life.

FMI: Helen Kilpatrick 480-2238261 or Kristel Callister 520-5071199. 480-223-8261

CSH HORSE CAMP – KIDS SUMMER SERIES – CANYON STATE HORSEMANSHIP

7/20/26

Canyon State Horsemanship, Taylor, AZ

CSH Horse Camp Kids Summer Series presented by Canyon State Horsemanship, Taylor, Arizona, July 20–23, 2026. Ages 6–15. Fun 4-day horse camp featuring riding, games, crafts, and horsemanship activities. Make friends and build confidence! Two groups, 6 slots available per group. Schedule: Group 1 — 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM; Group 2 — 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Reserve your spot! Contact Canyon State Horsemanship: 602-397-7070 or canyonstatehorsemanship@ gmail.com. 602-397-7070 https://www.facebook.com/ canyonstatehorsemanship/events

RUNNING WIND ACADEMY SUMMER HORSE CAMP

JULY 20–24

7/20/26

Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, AZ

RUNNING WIND ACADEMY SUMMER HORSE CAMP

JULY 6–10

7/6/26

Winter Rose Equestrian Center, 6740 E Jomax Road, Scottsdale, AZ

RVR TRAIL RIDE 2026

9/16/26

Coconino National Forest, AZ

Save the date for the Rio Verde Roverettes All Woman’s Trail

Ride 2026! This year’s theme celebrates America’s Birthday - 250 Years. The multi-day trail ride takes place in the beautiful Coconino National Forest, offering scenic riding through Arizona’s high country. This popular annual event brings together women riders for camaraderie, adventure, and appreciation of the outdoors on horseback. Invitations and detailed information will be emailed out June 1. Perfect for experienced trail riders looking for a memorable group riding experience in one of Arizona’s most scenic forests. rioverderoverettes.com

QC 4H HORSE PROJECT

Monthly

Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, 20464 E Riggs Road, Queen Creek, AZ

QC 4H Horse Project monthly meetings at Horseshoe Park in Queen Creek. Youth horse program focused on horsemanship, animal husbandry and community leadership. Open to youth ages 5–18 interested in horses and equestrian activities. Contact Horseshoe Park at 480358-3793 for meeting schedule. 480-358-3793 https://www. queencreekaz.gov/government/ horseshoe-park-equestrian-centre

HEART CRY COWBOY CHURCH

Monthly

Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, 20464 E Riggs Road, Queen Creek, AZ

Heart Cry Cowboy Church monthly gathering at Horseshoe Park in Queen Creek. A community worship experience in the western tradition welcoming horses, families and all who appreciate the cowboy way of life. Free to attend. Check Horseshoe Park event calendar for specific dates. 480-358-3793 https://www. queencreekaz.gov/government/ horseshoe-park-equestrian-centre

TOM WICKLUND DRILLS & MANEUVERSWEEKLY CLASSES

Tuesdays/Wednesdays/ Thursdays

Performance Horse Arena, Corner of 24th and Maddock, Cave Creek, AZ

TEAM ROPINGS

Weekly group horsemanship classes with Tom Wicklund at Performance Horse Arena. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 5:30 PM, Thursdays at 10 AM. Focus on balance, hind quarters, forehand, and flexing. All disciplines and breeds welcome. New topics each week. $30 per session, space limited, pre-register. www. performancehorsearena.com

EARNHARDT AUTO CENTERS THURSDAY

ROPINGS 2026 –LINDEN VALLEY ARENA

6/4/26

Linden Valley Arena, 1120 Pearce Rd, Show Low, AZ Earnhardt Auto Centers NoBull. com presents Thursday Ropings 2026 at Linden Valley Arena, 1120 Pearce Rd, Show Low, Arizona. Series dates: June 4, 11, 18, and 25, 2026. Three ropings each Thursday: #7.5 Earnhardt Buckles — books close 5:00 PM, P1D1 or D2, $100/roper, enter 2x, 4.5 cap, 2-steer, buckles to 1st; #9.5 Earnhardt Buckles — books close 6:00 PM, P1D1 or D2, $100/ roper, enter 2x, 5.5 cap, 3-steer, buckles to 1st; #11.5 Slide — books close 7:00 PM, P1D1 or D2, $120/roper, enter 2x, 4-steer, HCAP 1.5 sec per number, no team over 14.5. Arena directions: Hwy 260, 5 miles toward Heber from Hwy 60; turn North at mile marker 335 on Pearce Rd, drive one-half mile. FMI Cory (480) 5408405 or ropingco.com. | Entry Fee: $100–$120/roper (480) 540-8405 https://ropingco.com

TEAM ROPING & KIDS DUMMY ROPING – WISE OWL ARENA

6/6/26

Wise Owl Arena, Cedar Creek, AZ

Team Roping at Wise Owl Arena, Cedar Creek, Arizona, Saturday June 6, 2026. Enter 8:30 AM, rope 9:00 AM. Four ropings: 3 & Under 2-steer P1/D1 $70 enter 5x; 12.5 Slide 4-steer P1/D1 $80 enter 3x; #11.5 8-steer P1/D1 $100 enter 4x; 9.5 Incentive enter 4x no handicap no cap. Kids Dummy Roping ages 0–6, 7–9, 10–12.

Horseshoe Tournament. USTRC or WSTC cards and ID required for payouts. Drug and alcohol free event. | Entry Fee: $70–$100/man

THE BEAST 2026 TRUCK ROPING

6/12/26

Linden Valley Arena, 1120 Pearce Rd, Show Low, AZ

The Beast 2026 Truck Roping at Linden Valley Arena, 1120 Pearce Rd, Show Low, AZ. June 12-13, 2026. Friday June 12: #11.5 Big $3,000 Guaranteed to 1st (4-Steer, P1D1 or D2, $150, Enter 2X, 7 Cap); #9.5 Saddle – Saddles to 1st (3-Steer, P1D1 or D2, $120, Enter 2X, 5.5 Cap); #7.5 2-Steer Buckle – Buckles 1st-4th (P1D1 or D2, $120, Enter 2X, 4.5 Cap). Saturday June 13: #10.5 Muley Roping (Pick, $100/Roper, Enter 2X, 7 Cap, 3-Steer, books close 8:45 AM, rope at 9:00 AM); #11.5 Beast Truck Roping – New RAM 3500 to High Point Roper (P1D1 or D2, $200, Enter 4X, 7 Cap, 4-Steer, Handicapped, entries close 9:30 AM). Cash or Credit Card (5% fee), no checks. Global numbers. Flag on heels. Points to

20 in each roping. Contact Cory (480) 540-8405 or ropingco.com. Stalls at lindenvalleyarena.com. (480) 540-8405 ropingco.com

22ND ANNUAL MANUEL PADILLA SR. MEMORIAL ROPING

9/26/26

Sonoita Fairgrounds, Sonoita, AZ

22nd Annual Manuel Padilla Sr. Memorial Roping at Sonoita Fairgrounds, Sonoita, Arizona — Saturday September 26, 2026. Save the date — more details to follow.

bridleandbit@aol.com

Lisa Lockhart

First WPRA Member Reach $4 Million in Career Earnings

By Ann Bleiker

Lisa Lockhart kicked off Women’s History Month by becoming the first WPRA member to surpass the $4 million mark in career earnings all from barrel racing. Lockhart of Oelrichs, S.D., finished second in the average at La Fiesta de los Vaqueros in Tucson, Arizona to seal the deal as her quest for her 20th NFR qualification is well underway.

Lisa Lockhart has come a long way from serving on the Oelrichs, S.D. school board to being a fan favorite and now $4 million barrel racer in the WPRA.

“Number 1, I hadn’t thought about it (the milestone) and was not on my radar at all,” stated a surprised Lockhart. “I have always said records are made to be broken but anytime you can cross the bridge first it is cool. I feel very honored and it is quite an accomplishment.”

For the finals in Tucson, Lockhart had to call upon a new team member, she calls Copper, because she left Rosa in Houston, which starts tonight (March 2) for her. She bought Copper as a yearling and trained him so to have him step up and get the check to push her over the mark is special.

Lisa Lockhart and her new team member Copper got the job done in Tucson finishing second in the average to become the first WPRA member to reach the $4 million mark in career earnings.

It is cool to have another one to be part of the whole team,” commented Lockhart about Copper. “I am always proud of my team, and it has been a team of horses to get to this mark. To have it be on one that I trained is very cool.”

Copper had only been called upon at a couple of circuit rodeos, Denver and San Antonio prior to the Final round in Tucson, but he listened to his jockey and got her to this historic accomplishment.

Lockhart joined the WPRA in 1993 and spent her early career making a name for herself in the Badlands Circuit Finals. In fact, it was there in 2022 where she surpassed the $3 million mark in her career. She qualified for her first NFR in 2007 and hasn’t missed one since.

She has won the NFR average title three times in her career in 2014, 2016 and 2023. She crossed the $1 million mark in her career in 2012, the $2 million in 2016, $3 million in 2022 and on March 1, 2026, she hit the $4 million mark.

“I never imagined this,” noted Lockhart. “I never imagined making it to the NFR let alone 19 times let alone crossing $4 million. I didn’t grow up thinking about it, believing it or wanting it. The fact that it has happened by chance more than anything is amazing. I guess if you just put your head down and work hard as you can, then what will be will be.

NCHA ANNOUNCES CHASE LACKEY

AS 2026-2027 VICE PRESIDENT

Join us in welcoming Chase Lackey as the NCHA’s newest Vice President. His term will begin Sunday, June 21, during the NCHA Convention. Thank you to all the NCHA members who participated in the voting process.

FORT WORTH – The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) proudly announces Chase Lackey of Burlington, North Carolina, as the association’s newest Vice President. Lackey will begin his term Sunday, June 21, with the installation of new officers during the General Membership Meeting of the NCHA Convention, held in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Vice President of the NCHA is a vital part of the organization, working alongside the President and Executive Committee to help guide the future of both the NCHA and the sport of cutting. Lackey won the Vice Presidency election with 52.6% of the votes in his favor.

“I’m truly grateful for the trust and support the membership has shown throughout this campaign,” said Lackey. “NCHA means a great deal to my family and me, and I know it means just as much to so many others who have invested their time, passion, and hard work into this association.”

“I’m committed to leading with integrity, fiscal responsibility, and a vision focused on growth, unity, and long-term success,” he continued. “I believe our best days are still ahead of us, and I’m excited to work together to continue moving NCHA forward.”

Lackey has proudly been a member of the NCHA since 2013 and currently serves as a North Carolina Director, a member of the LAE Committee, and Vice President of the Area 18 Cutting Horse Association. A dedicated supporter of the association’s future, he is a longtime sponsor of the Mary Kingsbury Amateur Sportsmanship Award and has hosted the Peach State Futurity Saddle Shootout for the past five years.

Professionally, Lackey is an entrepreneur and business leader with operations across the Southeast. As a ranch owner, equine breeder, and competitor who has shown at every level of NCHA competition — from weekend classes to Limited Aged Events — he brings both hands-on industry knowledge and executive-level business experience to the role.

The NCHA looks forward to Lackey’s leadership and positive impact in his new role as Vice President and is confident that his experience and dedication will continue to strengthen the association and its membership.

NEW EQUINE SCIENCE FACILITY TO BE BUILT AT WESTWORLD

Expanded Partnership

Ushers in New Era for Arizona’s Equine Workforce

Scottsdale, Ariz., May 20, 2026 – Scottsdale Community College (SCC), in partnership with the City of Scottsdale and WestWorld, marked a significant milestone today with the official groundbreaking of a permanent facility for SCC’s Equine Science program.

The new site, located at WestWorld’s renowned event campus, will provide SCC students with direct access to one of the nation’s leading equine venues – ushering in a new era of opportunity for Arizona’s equine industry.

“Today’s groundbreaking represents years of vision and collaboration,” said Dr. Eric Leshinskie, President of SCC. “We’re investing in our students, the industry, and local community, and we’re proud to continue

Scottsdale’s long tradition of equine excellence.”

The 22,000 square foot facility will include 10 horse stalls, two round pens, a hay shed, an equipment shed, and a dedicated farrier station, all designed to support real-world workforce development in a professional environment.

“WestWorld has long been a destination for premier equestrian events, and this partnership with Scottsdale Community College strengthens that legacy while investing in the future of Arizona’s equine industry,” said Scottsdale City Manager Greg Caton. “This new facility creates meaningful opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in a worldclass setting while supporting workforce development, education and economic vitality in our community.”

“This move allows us to expand our program, strengthen workforce preparation, and create more opportunities for students,” said Jay Clements, SCC’s Equine Science Program Director. “Being located at WestWorld gives our students better access, better scheduling, and better opportunities to gain experience alongside the industry’s top names and events.”

According to a 2026 report by the American Horse Council, the national equine industry contributed $177 billion and 2.2 million jobs to the U.S. economy, supporting these areas: racing sector, recreation sector, competition sector, traditional work horses, equine assisted services, and equine rescues and sanctuaries. In addition, a 2025 report by the University of Arizona estimated the annual statewide economic impact of horse racing is $294 million.

SCC’s Equine Science program has been a leader in equine education for over 40 years, combining academic coursework with hands-on horse handling experience. Graduates leave well-prepared to enter the workforce or continue in advanced

Left to Right

Jan Dubauskus, Scottsdale City Council Member

Susan Bitter Smith, Governing Board Member, Maricopa Community Colleges

Mary Ann McCallen, Scottsdale City Council Member

Morgan Torrez, alumni of the Equine Science program

Jay Clements, SCC Equine Science program director

Honorable Lisa Borowsky, City of Scottsdale

Dr. Eric Leshinskie, president of SCC

Kenzie Smalls, alumni of the Equine Science program

Izabel Iradell, student in the Equine Science program

areas such as animal science, equine veterinary studies, or horse-assisted therapy. Career opportunities include stable management, veterinary assisting, training, journalism, photography, teaching, and more.

Until now, the program has lacked a dedicated facility for clinical instruction. With temporary partnerships scattered across the Valley, students often faced long commutes and logistical challenges. The new WestWorld site will centralize SCC’s handson training, making it more convenient and sustainable for students and faculty.

One of the program’s most recent impactful additions is SCC’s Equine Massage Therapy Certification, the first of its kind in Arizona. The program was built to meet a growing demand in the equine industry with a professional, career-focused approach. As high-level equine competitions continue to grow in popularity and prize money, so does the need for knowledgeable professionals who can support equine athletes and prevent injuries.

Construction is expected to be completed by Summer 2026, to support Fall semester classes.

U.S. Eventing Team Takes Silver

Devon, England – The Defender U.S. Eventing Team secured a well-earned podium finish at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ Great Britian CCIO4*-NC-S, held May 27–31 at Bicton International Horse Trials in Devon, England. The team closed the competition on a collective score of 182.2, earning silver behind host nation Great Britain (135.6) and ahead of New Zealand (199.5). The team was led by Chef d’Equipe and High-Performance Manager, Leslie Law, as well as USEF Eventing High-Performance Advisor, Karyn Shuter.

“Overall, I think it went very well,” Law said of the U.S. team, “We tend to bring Development 25 athletes over for this event, and I think they gained a lot of great team experience this weekend. We have to be happy with the result — to finish second behind a Great Britain team that had two of their Olympic riders, I think that was a very good result overall.”

Laura Collett (GBR) and Hester during the cross-country for the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™. © FEI/Libby Law Photography

Defender U.S. Eventing Team Takes Silver at FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ Great Britain CCIO4*-NC-S

The Trail of Painted Ponies Concludes Celebrated 20-Year Run Leaving a Lasting Legacy in

Beloved horse collectible brand to complete its journey as rising manufacturing costs reshape production landscape

After more than two decades of artistic innovation, The Trail of Painted Ponies, one of the most distinctive and beloved collectible art brands in the country, has announced it will

conclude production, marking the completion of a remarkable 24-year journey.

Founded in 2002 by Rod Barker, The Trail of Painted Ponies began as a philanthropic public art project based in Santa Fe, New Mexico that invited artists to let their imaginations run wild on lifesize resin horse sculptures. After a period of public display, these

Collectible

Art

dazzling artworks were auctioned off to raise money for various charities. The use of a horse as a canvas for artistic expression resonated with artists, generating hundreds of unique designs, many of which were crafted into collectible figurines that earned recognition for elevating collectibles into meaningful works of art, and became hugely popular, cultivating a passionate collector community.

The decision to conclude production comes as a result of steadily increasing manufacturing costs and evolving production realities, which have made continued creation unsustainable.

“This moment is not about loss, however,” said founder Rod Barker. “It’s about completion. What we created over the past twenty-plus years stands as a fully realized body of work. Four hundred and eighty-one Painted Pony figurines were created, every one of which is an original design that tells a story. Altogether they form a legacy that will continue to live on. With no new pieces to be produced, the existing collection now becomes a finite and complete body of workfurther enhancing the significance of each piece for collectors, while generating a robust secondary market as every Painted Pony is now part of a limited edition.”

In Arizona, horses are more than a hobby.

They are part of our history, our economy, our culture, and our way of life. From ranches in Cochise County to trail riders in the Tonto National Forest, from rodeo competitors and team ropers to breeders, trainers, and horse owners throughout the state, Arizona’s equestrian community remains one of the strongest links to our western heritage.

That is why Arizona’s horse community should pay close attention to the race for Attorney General.

At first glance, the connection may not seem obvious. Most people think of the Attorney General as the state’s top lawyer, responsible for prosecuting criminals and defending the state’s interests in court. While that is certainly part of the job, the Attorney General also plays an important role in protecting private property rights, defending against government overreach, addressing land use disputes, safeguarding access to public lands, and helping shape the legal framework that impacts small businesses and rural communities.

Those issues matter deeply to Arizona horse owners.

Once those rights begin to disappear, they are rarely restored. Over time, suburban encroachment can slowly transform horse property into something entirely different. What begins as a seemingly minor zoning change often leads to fewer horses, fewer trails, fewer boarding facilities, and ultimately the gradual erosion of the western lifestyle that attracted people to communities like Cave Creek in the first place.

As Vice Mayor, I believed preserving, and restoring those horse privileges where they had been previously stripped, was important. Rodney understood why. Rodney simply recognized that horses are not merely animals to many Arizonans. They are part of our property rights, our economy, our culture, and our identity. He listened. He understood the issue. And he helped support my efforts to restore and preserve those rights.

Rodney Glassman for Attorney General: A Horseman’s Case

By Adam M. Trenk, Esq.

As a horseman, attorney, entrepreneur, owner of Genuine Billy Cook Saddles, and former Vice Mayor of Cave Creek, I have spent much of my life involved in Arizona’s horse community. I have also spent enough time in government to know that not every elected official understands the importance of preserving Arizona’s western way of life.

That is one of the reasons I support Rodney Glassman for Attorney General.

My support is not based on campaign advertisements, political talking points, or party loyalty. It is based on firsthand experience working with Rodney when he served as Town Manager of Cave Creek during my time as Vice Mayor.

One issue in particular stands out.

Years ago, Cave Creek faced an important debate involving horse privileges within the Town’s Desert Rural zoning district. To many people outside the horse community, it may have sounded like a technical zoning matter. To horse owners, it was something far more significant.

Horse privileges help preserve the rural character of a community. They protect the ability of property owners to maintain an equestrian lifestyle on their land. They help ensure that future generations can continue to keep horses where horses have historically been part of the community.

RODNEY GLASSMAN

serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force JAG Corps Reserve. He is currently assigned to the 56th Fighter Wing Legal Office at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, where he often serves as Acting Staff Judge Advocate, leading the Active Duty legal office.

That experience taught me something important about Rodney Glassman. He does not view horses as a niche interest or an afterthought. He understands that Arizona’s horse community is an important part of what makes our state unique.

That matters because Arizona’s horse industry contributes far more to our economy than many people realize.

Across Arizona, horses support thousands of jobs and countless small businesses. Ranchers, breeders, trainers, farriers, veterinarians, feed suppliers, boarding facilities, transportation companies, tack manufacturers, rodeo producers, and countless others depend upon a healthy and thriving equine industry.

Horse owners support local feed stores, local veterinarians, local contractors, local restaurants, local retailers, and local service providers. Rodeos, team ropings, barrel races, cutting competitions, horse shows, and trail riding activities generate economic activity throughout Arizona’s rural communities in our city centers at places like Scottsdale’s Westworld and Queen Creek’s Horseshoe Park..

Horses are not simply part of Arizona’s past. They remain an important part of Arizona’s present and future.

Unfortunately, preserving that heritage cannot be taken for granted.

Horse owners increasingly face challenges involving property rights, government regulation, land use restrictions, water policy, access to public lands. These issues may not dominate election headlines, but they have enormous consequences for those of us who live, work, and invest in Arizona’s horse community.

Consider public land access. Arizona is blessed with some of the finest horseback riding opportunities

anywhere in America. From the Sonoran Desert to the White Mountains, horsemen enjoy access to an incredible network of federal, state, county, and local trails.

But access is never guaranteed.

In late 2025, portions of the Lower Salt River area were temporarily closed to horses and other equines following concerns involving Vesicular Stomatitis within the Salt River wild horse herd. While the closure was implemented as a disease control measure, it served as an important reminder that access can be restricted quickly and sometimes with little notice.

As Arizona continues to grow, conflicts involving recreation, conservation, development, and public land access will likely become more common. Horse owners need leaders who understand that horseback riding is not merely another recreational activity. It is a historic and legitimate use of Arizona’s public lands.

We need public officials who appreciate the economic and cultural value of equestrian recreation and who understand that horsemen deserve a seat at the table when decisions affecting public access are made.

Rodney Glassman understands that.

He also understands something equally important: the future of Arizona’s horse community will be heavily influenced by water policy and land use decisions.

Unlike most candidates for public office, Rodney possesses a PhD in Arid Land Resource Sciences with a focus on water and natural resource issues. In a state where water availability, growth, conservation, agriculture, and rural development will shape public policy for generations, that expertise matters.

operation, a training program, a boarding facility, a feed store, a veterinary practice, or a western retail business, they understand firsthand the challenges excessive regulation can create.

Arizona has long thrived because of independent business owners and individuals willing to invest their time, energy, and resources into building something meaningful. The Attorney General should be a defender of those individuals, not an advocate for expanding bureaucracy. Throughout my interactions with Rodney, I have consistently found him to be someone who appreciates the importance of limited government, practical regulation, personal responsibility, and private property rights.

MARICOPA COUNTY SHERIFF

JERRY SHERIDAN WITH RODNEY GLASSMAN AND ADAM TRENK

Horse owners understand this reality better than most. Water affects every ranch, every boarding facility, every hay growing operation, and every rural property owner in Arizona. The future of horse ownership in Arizona is inseparable from the future of Arizona’s water resources.

Having an Attorney General who understands those issues is not simply beneficial. It is essential.

Equally important is Rodney’s longstanding support for small businesses and private property rights.

Most horse owners are, in one way or another, entrepreneurs and property owners. Whether operating a ranch, a breeding

That brings me to perhaps the most important reason Arizona’s horse community should support Rodney Glassman.

=The Attorney General is Arizona’s chief legal officer. This is not a ceremonial office. It is not a position that should be awarded based on name recognition or political popularity. The Attorney General is responsible for defending Arizona law, protecting constitutional rights, challenging government overreach, representing state agencies, and addressing some of the most complex legal issues facing our state.

Qualifications matter. Arizona deserves an Attorney General who can walk into the office on day one prepared to lead. The Attorney General is the state’s chief legal officer, responsible for managing complex litigation, defending Arizona law, protecting constitutional rights, overseeing hundreds of attorneys and staff, and standing up to federal overreach when necessary. This is not a position for on the job training.

Among the Republican candidates seeking this office, Rodney stands apart. He combines legal training, executive government experience, advanced expertise in water and land use policy, military service, and a demonstrated record of protecting the interests of Arizona’s rural communities.

Just as importantly, Rodney has spent approximately seventeen years as a licensed attorney. He has built a legal career, prosecuted crimes, advised clients, worked through complex legal issues, and developed the judgment that comes from years of practicing law. That experience matters when the Attorney General

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MORE RODNEY GLASSMAN

is called upon to make consequential legal decisions affecting millions of Arizonans.

By contrast, Rodney’s republican primary opponent has been licensed to practice law for less than three years, and has never actually practiced law. Voters should ask themselves a simple question: if they needed a lawyer to defend their business, their property rights, or their constitutional freedoms, would they hire someone with seventeen years of legal experience or someone who has never practiced law?

The Attorney General’s office is not a place to learn how to be a lawyer. It is a place where legal experience, sound judgment, and proven leadership are prerequisites. Among the Republican candidates in this race, Rodney Glassman is uniquely qualified to serve as Arizona’s next Attorney General.

There is another aspect of Rodney’s background that deserves mention.

In addition to his legal and public policy experience, Rodney serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force Reserve. At a time when military service has become increasingly uncommon among elected officials, Rodney continues to serve his country in uniform. That commitment reflects qualities that matter in an Attorney General: discipline, integrity, leadership, accountability, and a willingness to place service above self.

His campaign has also attracted support from respected leaders who understand both public service and Arizona’s western way of life. Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan, a lifelong horseman and one of Arizona’s most respected law enforcement leaders, serves as a chair of Rodney’s campaign. Former Arizona Attorney General and the now Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne also serves as a campaign chair.

Taken together, these endorsements reflect confidence from individuals who understand law enforcement, government, education, military service, and Arizona’s western heritage. They recognize what I have come to recognize through my own experience working with Rodney: he is uniquely qualified to serve as Arizona’s next Attorney General.

At the end of the day, Arizona’s horse community is not asking for special treatment.

We simply want leaders who understand our way of life. We want leaders who respect private property rights, support small businesses, appreciate the importance of public land access, understand the challenges facing rural Arizona, and recognize the vital role horses continue to play in our state’s culture and economy.

Based on my firsthand experience working with Rodney Glassman, I know he understands those priorities.

I saw it when preserving horse privileges mattered in Cave Creek. I see it today in his commitment to protecting rural Arizona, defending property rights, supporting small businesses, and ensuring that government serves citizens rather than the other way around. For those reasons, I will be voting for Rodney Glassman in the Republican primary for Attorney General.

I encourage Arizona’s horse community to do the same.

Adam M. Trenk, Esq. is an a Partner at Rose Law Group pc in Scottsdale, entrepreneur, horseman, and former Vice Mayor of Cave Creek. He is the owner and CEO of Genuine Billy Cook Saddles and serves as Chair of the Scottsdale Community College Equine Sciences Advisory Board. He works closely with horse owners, ranchers, trainers, and western businesses throughout Arizona and across the country.

From knee high to a grasshopper to 2026 PBR Rookie of the Year: Marco Rizzo

Marco Rizzo’s lifelong dream became reality after a breakthrough UTB win, a season-long rookie battle and a faith-filled ride from South Georgia to the PBR World Finals stage.

By Harper Lawson FORT WORTH,

Texas — Marco Rizzo didn’t even know he was a rookie The Quitman, Georgia, cowboy had been around bull riding long enough to make “rookie” feel like the wrong word. He had been climbing on calves since he was 6 years old, learning from his dad, hauling to youth events, battling the same boys who would one day become his brothers behind the chutes and chasing the kind of dream that starts before a kid is tall enough to see over the fence.

Or, as Rizzo would say, since he was “knee high to a grasshopper.” Which, in Georgian, means pretty much his whole life.

But by PBR standards, the label still fit. Rizzo had never ridden a full Unleash The Beast season. He had never made the PBR World Finals. He had never made a premier series cut.

Then, in 2025, Modo Casino PBR Chicago happened.

And suddenly, the “Money Man” was very much in the Rookie of the Year race.

Rizzo’s 2026 breakthrough started under the lights inside United Center, where he went a perfect 3-for-3 and capped the ride of his life with a career-best 90.25-point score aboard the late two-time World Champion Bull Man Hater.

The victory marked his first career Unleash The Beast event win, launched him into the world standings conversation and turned what had once been a comeback story into a Rookie of the Year chase.

Seven days earlier, Rizzo had gone 0-for-2 in Manchester. The pressure had crept in. The doubts had gotten louder. So he went home to Georgia and got back to work.

Practice bulls. Workouts. Faith. Family. Same plan. Same roots. That has always been Rizzo’s way.

His camo Bible travels with him everywhere. This season, he has vocalized his faith more than ever, reading scripture before events, leaning on prayer and leading prayer in the locker room before riding. During Night 2 of the World Finals, his dad was right there with him, praying in the locker room before the moment.

“I mean, trust the Lord, and every bull you ride, not just every bull you draw, is for a reason,” Rizzo said. “God has a plan right now, and we need to trust that, and that’s what I’ve been telling myself literally every single bull I get on. God’s plan is already written, we can’t change it, so trust yourself, trust your faith in the Lord, trust the plan He has for you. You can never guess the plan.”

For Rizzo, that plan had already taken him through the kind of setback that could make a lesser man quit.

In 2024, his season showed flashes of what was coming. He posted an 87-point ride on American You in Sioux Falls and finished third at the Unleash The Beast event in Los Angeles before a broken leg in Billings brought it all to a hard stop.

George Khalaf - Why I’m Running to Represent Arizona’s 3rd Legislative District

I’m running to represent Arizona’s 3rd legislative district in the State House because we need leaders who are able to deliver a conservative, prosperous, familycentered vision. I have spent my career advocating for conservative principles that make life better for Arizona families, protect parents’ rights, keep our communities safe and ensure our water future is secure.

First and foremost, I define myself as a Christian, husband, father and America-First conservative. Growing up, my parents instilled in me a deep love for our freedoms and values. They fought a civil war in Lebanon defending their Christian faith and later immigrated legally to the United States to give their children a better future.

There are so many key issues that will determine the future of the state but few are as important as ensuring Arizona’s water future is secure. I am grateful the State and local leaders came together to solve the water issue in Rio Verde but we are now facing another issue with the likely cuts coming from the Colorado

River negotiations. We need to find solutions that highlight the beauty of our desert landscape, allow for responsible growth and maintain our long tradition of horse properties and ranching.

I’m proud to be police endorsed, representing my commitment to safe communities. I’m honored to have the recommendation of the Arizona Citizens Defense League, demonstrating my strong stance on our Second Amendment freedoms. And I’m grateful for the backing of so many local Mayors and Republican council members so that we can work closely on ensuring a stable and affordable water source for LD3 communities. The primary election is July 21. I hope to earn one of your two votes! I commit to always listening to residents and leading from principle. Learn more at GeorgeKhalaf.com.

George Khalaf, Briana Khalaf and his three sons.

PATTY TIBERG NAMED NRCHA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Board of Directors has named Patty Tiberg as the association’s new Executive Director.

Tiberg steps into the role following her tenure with NRCHA, where she most recently served as Director of Sponsorship & Incentive. Since joining the association in 2024, she has been instrumental in driving growth across key areas of the organization, including expanding the NRCHA Cow Horse Incentive and strengthening the association’s sponsorship program.

In her role overseeing sponsorships, Tiberg led efforts to grow and enhance NRCHA’s partner portfolio, building meaningful relationships with industry-leading brands and identifying new opportunities to elevate

sponsor visibility and engagement across premier events and year-round initiatives. Her work has contributed to increased investment in the sport and added value for NRCHA members, owners, and fans.

“Patty has made a significant impact during her time with NRCHA,” said Paul Bailey, NRCHA President. “Her ability to build strong partnerships, think strategically, and follow through on execution has helped position the association for continued growth. We are confident in her leadership as she steps into the Executive Director role.”

Prior to joining NRCHA, Tiberg served as chief marketing and business development officer for the American Quarter Horse Association, overseeing corporate partnerships, marketing, sales, and media platforms. She previously served as vice president of the Morris Media Network Equine Group, parent company to leading equine industry brands including Western Horseman, Quarter Horse News, and Reined Cow Horse News.

“I am honored to step into this position and continue serving the NRCHA,” Tiberg said. “This organization is built on a deep respect for tradition, strong relationships, and a shared passion for the cow horse. I look forward to working alongside our Board, staff, and members to continue building momentum and supporting the future of the sport.”

Effective immediately, Tiberg will oversee the association’s day-to-day operations as Executive Director. Emily Konkel will remain actively involved in an advisory role through the end of her contract in June, working alongside Tiberg to ensure a smooth and seamless transition for the association, its members, and industry partners.

As Executive Director, Tiberg will oversee the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the association, working closely with the Board of Directors, staff, and industry partners to support NRCHA’s mission and long-term growth.

Ellesse Gundersen and Quintessential 4

Crowned Winners of 2026 USEF Grand Prix Dressage National Championship

Ocala, Fla. – Ellesse Gundersen and Quintessential 4 were crowned national champions under the lights at World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC) on Saturday, May 17, 2026, after finishing atop the overall leaderboard of the US Equestrian (USEF) Grand Prix Dressage National Championship following three days of competition. The pair concluded their week with a score of 76.055% in the Grand Prix Freestyle to secure their title on a final combined championship score of 71.082%. Ashley Holzer and Hawtins San Floriana finished as Reserve National Champions with an overall total of 70.350%, while Meagan Davis and Toronto Lightfoot rounded out the podium with overall third place. Christian Simonson and Fleau de Baian led the class in the Grand Prix Freestyle with an impressive score of 76.240%.

The 2026 USEF Grand Prix Dressage National Championship saw 16 total combinations start at the beginning of the week, with the overall champion determined by a calculation of their scores throughout the week, with the Grand Prix counting for 45% of their overall total, 40% for the Grand Prix Special, and the Grand Prix Freestyle earning them the final 15% of their score.

“He showed, again, that he was reliable, and he was meant to be here,” said Gundersen of the 2014 Hanoverian gelding (Quaterback x Cordoba) owned by Ellesse Gundersen, Marcia Radosevich, and Henrik Gundersen and cared for by Kelsi O’Hara. “I’m really over the moon about it. He really deserves it, and my entire team the last couple years deserves this more than anything as well, because they’ve been a huge part of it. I think we’re going to enjoy it now, and then we are going to make smart decisions and look to the future for this horse.”

The pair has drawn positive attention from the judges, spectators, and their peers for their harmonious picture and poise throughout their performances. Today’s freestyle highlighted Q’s strengths, including his extended movements and fluidity of transition between collected and extended work.

“My music is named ‘Never Give Up,’” said Gundersen. “It really reminds us that we can’t ever give up and we fight every day, no matter what, and we show up, and we’re here for it. It’s very special to us.”

As the pair continues their journey together, aiming for more major moments and gaining experience internationally is high up on their to-do list as they look ahead with great aspirations in the next two years.

She noted, “I think the U.S. has a great plan in place for us, and they’re on the same page as me on how we can further develop myself and the horse and the future of U.S. dressage.”

Ashley Holzer (Wellington, Fla.) and Hawtins San Floriana, a 2012 British Hanoverian mare (San Amour I x Florestan I) owned by Diane Fellows and Ashley Holzer and cared for by Ali Conti, earned a 75.355% from the judging panel in their freestyle, to ultimately take reserve champion honors and mark another milestone step in the pair ’s partnership together.

“She’s worked very hard,” commented Holzer. “We knew that I had to get her acclimated to events that had a lot of atmosphere. She just kept improving, and now she walks to the ring, happy as a clam. I pick up the reins, she knows it’s her job, and she goes off and does it. I’ve had a lot of horses in my life, and I know when they want to go down that centerline and do the job for you. It is remarkable, and we have to cherish that.”

Defender U.S. Eventing Team

Takes Silver at FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ Great Britian CCIO4*-NC-S

Devon, England – The Defender U.S. Eventing Team secured a wellearned podium finish at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ Great Britian CCIO4*-NC-S, held May 27–31 at Bicton International Horse Trials in Devon, England. The team closed the competition on a collective score of 182.2, earning silver behind host nation Great Britain (135.6) and ahead of New Zealand (199.5).

The team was led by Chef d’Equipe and High-Performance Manager, Leslie Law, as well as USEF Eventing High-Performance Advisor, Karyn Shuter.

The team competition started on the second day of dressage on Friday, May 28. Allie Knowles (Lexington, Ky.) and Montpellier Scais, a 2017 Anglo European Sport Horse gelding (Quasimodo van de Molendreef x Indoctro) owned by Katherine O’Brien and cared for by Alex Cain, led the U.S. effort with the team’s best dressage score of 32.1. Cassie Sanger (Wilmington, Del.) and her own Fernhill Zoro, a 2008 Anglo European Sport Horse gelding (Verdi TN x Voltaire) cared for by Meigs Rutherford, posted a 35.4, while Tommy Greengard (Petaluma, Calif.) and That’s Me Z, a 2017 Zangersheide gelding (Take a Chance on Me Z x VDL Indoctro) owned by Andrea Pfeiffer and Tommy Greengard and cared for by Mia Brown, added a 36.2. Quidley Kellermann (Wimberley, Texas) and her own Blakeneys Cruise, a 2017 Irish Sport Horse gelding (FSS Correlli Bravo x Cruising) cared for by Olivia Jenkins, rounded out the team on a 39.5.

In the short-format order of phases, the team competition continued with the show jumping phase, with a challenging track set by Krissy Spiller (GBR). Knowles, Greengard, and Kellermann all kept the rails in place and crossed through the finish within the time allowed, adding nothing to their dressage scores. Sanger and Fernhill Zoro had an unfortunate rail that added four penalties, bringing their cumulative score to 39.4 heading into cross country.

On cross country day, the combinations took on the track designed by Helen West (GBR), covering 3,755 meters at a speed of 570 meters per minute with an optimum time of 6 minutes and 35 seconds and featuring 36 jumping efforts.

Knowles and Montpellier Scais delivered a clear cross-country round, adding 18 time penalties for a finish time of 7:20 to close on a final threephase score of 50.1, leading the U.S. effort start to finish. Sanger and Fernhill Zoro were bold across the course, finishing on a final score of 64.4. Kellermann and Blakeneys Cruise completed the track to close on 67.7. Greengard and That’s Me Z were eliminated on course and took the position of the team’s drop score. Per Nations Cup format, the team score was calculated from the best three of four combinations.

The 2026 USEF Eventing European Development Tour is supported by the USET Foundation’s Karen E. Stives Endowment Grant, which aims to support the USEF Eventing program.

The silver-medal winning Defender U.S. Eventing Team (far left) with Team Great Britain (center) and Team New Zealand (far right) (©Libby Law Photography)

John Crimbe Crowned 2026 PBR World Champion

Crimber finished strong with late-event push to earn first gold buckle at Dickies Arena.

By James Youness

FORT WORTH, Texas – After being shut out last weekend at Cowtown Coliseum, John Crimber (Decatur, Texas) roared back to sweep Championship Sunday competition, put the finishing touches on his standout 2026 Unleash The Beast (UTB) season, and be crowned the 2026 PBR World Champion at the 2026 PBR World Finals: Unleash The Beast on Sunday afternoon in Fort Worth, Texas.

In a must-ride position to make the Championship round, the 20-year-old defended his tour-pacing position in Round 8 by recording a rank, roundwinning 91.35-point conversion aboard What’s Poppin to clinch a spot in Sunday’s short round before a sold-out Dickies Arena crowd.

Paired with Tigger in Round 9, Crimber sealed the deal with another session-topping, 92.90-point masterpiece, earning his first PBR World Championship.

“This is what I’ve dreamed of since I was a little kid playing in the living room pretending I was a bull rider. This is what we live for – to become a World Champion and the best bull rider in the world – and I couldn’t do it without my Lord and savior, Jesus Christ,” Crimber said on the Paramount+ telecast.

The world title race then came down to the final round. Crimber was paired against Tigger while Fielder, the lone man left with a path of dethroning Crimber, was tasked with world title-contender Ransom.

Fielder ended up drawing a re-ride aboard Ransom and was only able to produce an 88.60-point score aboard Doze You Down, thus granting Crimber his first World Championship, as Fielder’s fourth-place effort wasn’t enough to catch up to Crimber, who finished sixth in the event aggregate.

“It was a rough start. I didn’t ride the bulls I was supposed to ride, and it was rough. I had a lot of critics, lot of people saying stuff I’m not, but I just stayed true to myself and kept trusting God’s plans, because His plans are perfect,” Crimber added.

“This season was a long one for me, but I had a lot of fun riding bulls with my Cow Bros, too: Marco Rizzo, Clay Guiton, Kaiden Loud, Hudson Bolton and all of those guys. Them being back there supporting me, I’m very thankful to have them in my corner and being with me through all of it.”

Crimber concluded the season with a 55.17 % ride percentage, going 32-for58 on the season while ending his career-best campaign with $1,377,907 in winnings, which includes his $1 million bonus for being crowned World Champion.

“This world title, it’s not just for myself. This is for my dad, too. He’s the one who brought me here and made me who I am. His career was cut short, so this one’s for him, not me.”

Crimber edged out No. 2 Brady Fielder (Clermont, Australia) by a mere 187.83 points in the UTB standings as one of the sport’s most dramatic world title races brought the best out of the Australian just the same, who finished in fourth place on the World Finals event leaderboard.

Just three weeks ago, when the elite Unleash The Beast (UTB) tour exited Tacoma, Washington, following the premier series’ regular season finale, Crimber sat 169.5 UTB points ahead of No. 2 Fielder in the world title race.

Despite bringing a fiery, competitive effort to Cowtown Coliseum when the opening weekend of World Finals stormed into the Fort Worth Stockyards, Crimber went 0-for-4 inside the historic venue while seeing his lead reduced to just 135.5 points.

However, Crimber’s journey to the World Championship began heating up once the pack shifted gears to Dickies Arena. Leaving his 0-for-5 start in the dust, which included a Round 5 buckoff during the opening night inside the new venue, Crimber got to work during the event’s sixth session on Friday night.

Going the distance aboard July while removing the metaphorical monkey from his back, Crimber earned 89.40 points and began to build some momentum.

In Round 7 he matched Icky Thump’s every move, marked 84.95 points, and declined a re-ride opportunity to ensure his second ride score remained on the board.

Starting Championship Sunday No. 28 on the leader board, Crimber ’s round-winning conversion on What’s Poppin – his third bull in a row – punched his ticket to the final Championship Round of the 2026 campaign.

The standout cowboy paced the pack with a tour-high eight round wins in 2026 and recorded two event wins during his dominant campaign. Once Crimber re-established himself as the world’s top-ranked rider following the tour’s stop in Tallahassee, Florida, back in March, he refused to relinquish the lead, eventually capturing his first World Championship in his home state of Texas.

Throughout PBR’s 33-year history, Crimber is one of 23 different riders and now the 13th American cowboy to be crowned a PBR World Champion.

No. 3 Hudson Bolton (Milan, Tennessee) recorded an electric 7-for9 slate across the nine-round showcase to be crowned the 2026 World Finals Event Champion and claim the accompanying $500,000 bonus. Bolton ended the season with $623,493 in prize earnings.

Bolton inserted himself into the late-season gold buckle hunt courtesy of his impressive 7-for-7 start at World Finals but was unable to close the door following his 0-for-2 stretch on Championship Sunday.

In the bull pen, the YETI World Championship Bull race came down to the final short round of the season, with Pegasus holding a .05-point lead over Ransom in the average bull score standings ahead of Round 9.

When the dust settled, Ransom was crowned both the 2026 YETI PBR World Champion Bull and YETI “Built for the Wild” Bull of the Finals, earning the accompanying $100,000 and $25,000 bonuses.

The title of 2026 YETI World Champion Bull goes to the animal athlete with the highest average bull score from their eight highest-scored outs logged during the 2025 PBR Teams and 2026 Unleash The Beast regular season, alongside two outs at the 2026 PBR World Finals.

The YETI “Built for the Wild” Bull of the Finals title is awarded to the bovine who posted the top combined score across his three outs logged during the 2026 PBR World Finals.

Ransom earned the pair of titles by posting a 47.15-point bull score in Round 2, dispatching Cassio Dias (São F. de Sales, Brazil) in 6.70 seconds, and later teaming up with Eduardo Aparecido (Gouvelandia, Brazil) for a 46.75-point bull score in Round 5.

Despite Brady Fielder earning a re-ride opportunity for a chute foul called on Ransom during Sunday’s Championship Round, the bovine athlete kept his 47.35-point bull score, thus powering him past Pegasus in the average and clinching the animal athlete his first world title honors.

PWR Championship World Champions Crowned

By Taylor Riemersma

FORT WORTH, Texas (May 17, 2026) – The 2026 PWR (Premier Women’s Rodeo) Championship concluded Friday night in Cowtown Coliseum, crowning seven discipline champions and bringing an unforgettable week of competition to a thrilling close.

PWR also announced that its annual Championship event will be returning to Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, May 13-16. The seasonending event will be tied to Scripps Sports’ original series PWR: Road to the Championship on Grit, which will debut in 2027, offering allinclusive coverage of the PWR season’s most compelling storylines and competitions.

The on-sale date for tickets for the four-day event will be announced at a future date.

In Fort Worth, Kappie Bryant (Stephenville, Texas) dominated the Barrel Racing competition all week, entering the Championship Round as the favorite with an aggregate time of 29.592 seconds. She clinched the win with a time of 13.062 seconds to win the bonus of $60,000 and a weeklong total of $68,500.

The next winning pair in Team Roping was Kenna Francis (Las Vegas, N.M.) and Whitney DeSalvo (Wilmar, Ark.) with a time of 6.15 seconds to claim the round by over a full second. In addition to becoming PWR Championship winners, each of the ladies took home a $60,000 check as the Team Roping Heading Event Champion and Team Roping Event Heeling Champion. It marks the second year the duo have won the event with the prior in the 2024 Women’s Rodeo World Championship

Mayce Marek (Arp, Texas) topped the field in Goat Tying with an aggregate time of 18.95 seconds across three rounds to win $2,720. Marek further was crowned 2026 Goat Tying World Champion with a total of 7,912 points on the season.

Rylee George (Oakdale, Calif.) took the title of Breakaway Roping event champion with a time of 1.93 seconds, cashing in on the $60,000 prize. She earned a weeklong prize of $62,607.14 during the PWR Championship.

Carly Richardson (Honey Grove, Texas) won the Ranch Bronc Riding as one of two riders to ride both broncs they attempted for an aggregate score of 173.40 points. She bested Momma Tried in the final round for 85.40 points. Three riders covered a bronc in the final round.

Mady Eilert (Locust Grove, Okla.) knocked down a 93.40-point ride aboard Lion Heart to take home the bull riding title.

PWR (formerly WRWC), has paid out $5.25 million in prize money since its founding in 2020.

Barrel Racing Championship Round Results (Name – Time – Prize Money)

Kappie Bryant – 13.062 - $60,000.00

Skyler Nicholas – 13.152 - $25,000.00

Paige Jones – 13.158 - $15,000.00

Alishea Jones Broussard – 13.281 - $7,500

Tatum White - 13.304 - $2,000.00

Brittney Hipp – 13.359 - $1,500.00

PBR World Finals: Championship in Glendale,

By Andrew Giangola

May 20-23, 2027

FORT WORTH (May 13, 2026) – PBR (Professional Bull Riders), in partnership with Arizona Sports & Events Alliance, today announced the 2027 PBR World Finals: Championship will be held in Glendale, Ariz., at Desert Diamond Arena from May 20-23, bringing one of the most grueling and electrifying championships in sports to a new market as part of a long-term vision to continue to grow the sport nationwide.

The opening rounds of World Finals will be held at Cowtown Coliseum on May 6-9.

Modeled after the rotating host-city format of the Super Bowl, this move reflects increasing demand for PBR’s marquee individual competition event and creates new opportunities to showcase the sport’s intensity and global appeal.

Tickets for championship weekend in Glendale will go on sale starting May 14 at 10 a.m. MST and are available at PBRWorldFinals.com/2027.

Earlier this week, TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO), together with the Arizona Sports & Events Alliance, announced a multi-year partnership to bring some of TKO’s most high-profile events to Arizona, including PBR World Finals. PBR’s marquee event was the first to be announced.

“Arizona is a proven championship stage – home to Super Bowls, College Football Playoff games, and the Fiesta Bowl – and a strong market for PBR, where we’ve held premier events at Desert Diamond Arena for more than a decade and where the Arizona Ridge Riders have built a passionate fan base since becoming one of the league’s founding teams in 2022,” said Sean Gleason, CEO and Commissioner, PBR.

“Bringing our championship weekend to Glendale puts our sport on that same world-class platform. At the same time, PBR will continue to grow our presence in our headquarters city of Fort Worth with numerous events in bull riding and rodeo throughout the year.”

“We’re honored to bring the premier championship event in professional bull riding to Arizona,” said Jay Parry, President & CEO of the Arizona Sports & Events Alliance. “Glendale and the broader Arizona market provide an ideal stage for a high-energy championship weekend that naturally fits our community and fan base. We look forward to welcoming the world’s top riders, bulls and fans while further showcasing our state as a premier destination for major live sports and entertainment events.”

PBR World Finals had been held in Las Vegas from 1994 until 2021. In 2022, the championship moved to Texas, home to the organization’s headquarters in Fort Worth, where PBR will continue to play a vital role, programming more than 360 events annually at iconic Cowtown Coliseum and contributing to the growth and revitalization of the historic Stockyards.

NRCHA Foundation Hosts

Big Guns in Cowtown

The National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Foundation invites longtime cow horse fans, newcomers to the sport, and Western enthusiasts to attend the first-ever Big Guns in Cowtown event on October 21, 2026, during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® presented by Metallic Cat. This can’t-miss evening at the Cowtown Coliseum in the Fort Worth Stockyards benefits the NRCHA Foundation and many other charities.

Big Guns in Cowtown will see NRCHA professionals paired with Western athletes and personalities for one exciting run down the fence to take all the glory.

“We’re thrilled with the list of impressive rodeo athletes we’ve confirmed so far, such as Shad Mayfield, Wesley Thorp, Fallon Taylor, and Jackie Crawford, just to name a few,” shared NRCHA Foundation Chairperson Chelsea Edsall. “Each team will vie for prize money that’s awarded to the charity of each competitor’s choice, along with $20,000 for first place, $10,000 for second, and $5,000 for third— plus belt buckles and other prizes.Between the expertise of our NRCHA professionals, their exceptional bridle horses, and the superstar rodeo athletes, it’s sure to be an exciting night.”

Rocker Steiner expected to miss three months with neck injury

Rocker Steiner, the 2025 PRCA Bareback Riding World Champion, is scheduled to have neck surgery June 2 and is expected to miss three months according to a text to the PRORODEO Sports News from his father, Sid Thursday night.

Rocker is presently atop the PRCA | Bill Fick Ford World Standings with $122,132. His biggest win of the 2026 season was at RodeoHouston in March. The Weatherford, Texas, cowboy successfully defended his bareback riding title at RodeoHouston with an electric 90.5-point ride aboard the Calgary Stampede’s Disco Party in the Shootout round in March. He earned $72,750 for the victory.

2025, Steiner won his first PRCA Bareback Riding World Championship finishing the season with $507,533, which set a new event single-season earnings record.

With his world title, the Steiner family became the first family in PRCA history to have three generations of world champs. His grandfather, Bobby Steiner was the 1973 PRCA bull riding world champ and his father Sid Steiner was the 2002 steer wrestling world champion.

At the 2025 NFR, Rocker placed in five rounds winning Round 2 and Round 5. He placed fifth in the average with 845 points on 10 head.

Rocker, 22, most recently in PRCA competition, won Rodeo Corpus Christi (Texas) on May 9. He won the 2022 Resistol Rookie of the Year honor and has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo four times – 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

“He will be back better than ever!,” Sid said via text about Rocker.

This also marks the first time the NRCHA will host an event at the historic Cowtown Coliseum, known for its weekly rodeo series and other special events.

“The venue offers a fun new dynamic for the NRCHA, as well as the opportunity to amplify our sport’s visibility, driving membership, ownership, and overall support of reined cow horse,” Edsall added.

“NRCHA’s Foundation is a vital part of our organization and the entire cow horse family,” said NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “It works to preserve our heritage, supports our youth members, and fundraises for the crisis fund that helps members facing hardship. This night in the Stockyards will not only be fun for the entire family but also will raise funds to support the NRCHA Foundation as well as other charities chosen by our competitors. It’s truly a special night of giving back.”

To learn more about Big Guns in Cowtown, visit nrcha. com/big-guns or follow NRCHA Foundation on Facebook and Instagram for updates. Visit nrcha. com/foundation to read about the NRCHA Foundation and its mission.

Saddle bronc rider

Shorty Garrett captures

big win at Music City Rodeo

The

hills and valleys that come with PRORODEO can take a cowboy on extreme rides.

It can be a roller coaster of emotions, and saddle bronc rider Shorty Garrett has experienced them all. He made a steep incline Saturday night with a 91.5-point

ride on Smith ProRodeo’s Angel Cat to win the Music City Rodeo in Nashville.

“ A guy wants to take big wins like this and just roll along with them and hopefully the guy draws the horses to do it with,” said Garrett, a 2020 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier from Eagle Butte, S.D. “That horse right there gives a guy a chance to put his name on the board.

“We ain’t going to slow down.” He has no reason to decelerate. In fact, he might want to push the gas pedal to the floor. He entered the weekend 13th in the PRCA | Bill Fick Ford World Standings with $47,819. His match-up on the Texas bronc paid Garrett $9,532, which will come in handy this time of year. The summer run begins in June, so this might be the right time to pick up some momentum.

Team ropers compete on walking fresh, hornless cattle. It offers a different perspective for PRORODEO athletes.

While many rodeos offer a championship belt or spurs to their titlists, Pioneer Days Rodeo issues winners specially designed belts custom made for each individual winner. They are outfitted with decorative conchos that show the event and the year cowboys and cowgirls won it.

Coleman Proctor Wins two titles at Pioneer Days

Coleman Proctor added to his collection during the seven-day rodeo by winning the all-around and team roping titles. It is his second in team roping, where he and heeler Travis Graves each snared $5,732, placing in all three rounds and claiming the average with a three-run cumulative time of 21.10 seconds.

It is Proctor’s third Guymon allaround championship. He secured the title by earning an additional

$1,114 in steer roping.

“We’ve had a long winter, but we’ve started stacking checks together, and we’re just trying to get things going in the right direction,” said Proctor, 40, a ninetime Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier from Pryor, Okla.

That’s true. Proctor and Graves aren’t near the Top 15

PHOTO: Dale Hisrchman/PRCA

of the PRCA | Bill Fick Ford World Standings, so they have plenty of ground to make up by the end of the PRORODEO season in September. The good news is they have time.

Proctor and Graves have known one another most of their lives, but they just formed their partnership this season.

“Travis and I have jackpotted a lot and roped a lot our whole lives, but it just wasn’t clicking this winter like we thought it would right off the bat,” Proctor said. “Now, it’s just good that things are starting to come together. We started putting a lot of good runs together.”

He won Guymon for the first time in 2016 while roping with Jake Long, the reigning PRCA World Champion heeler.

Proctor’s transition to a partnership with Graves made sense. Both men are from Eastern Oklahoma and have spent their lives roping. Graves is a 16-time NFR qualifier who has also been close to winning a gold buckle.

It wasn’t just familiarity, but Proctor has added a new touch to his preparation to compete in the Oklahoma Panhandle.

“I always get to walking fresh muleys a couple of weeks before breaking them in at the house, and I try to be really prepared for it,” said Proctor, who will have several sets of championship conchos on his 2026 belt. “It’s not the biggest rodeo by any means that I go to, but I treat it like it’s the biggest one because it’s been one of the biggest ones to me growing up in the Prairie Circuit.

“I’ve been coming out here since I was 18, and Guymon’s got a special place in my heart.”

Resistol Rookie

Gavin Mitchell wins big at Santa Maria (Calif.) Xtreme Bulls

Resistol Rookie bull rider

Gavin Mitchell is starting to find his stride at the right time after capturing the championship title at the Santa Maria (Calif.) Elks Xtreme Bulls May 27. Mitchell covered Rosser Rodeo’s Hard

Wire for 87 points against a loaded field of seasoned competitors, earning a confidencebuilding win and a major payday as the summer run heats up.

For the Graford, Texas, cowboy who bought his PRCA card after graduating from college and is competing in his rookie season, the victory at the Rank 45 Xtreme Bulls Series stop marked the first championship title of his

young career.

Mitchell acknowledged he entered the event without much intel about Hard Wire, but turned to fellow competitor Billy Quillan for insight before climbing aboard the bull.

“I really didn’t know anything (about Hard Wire), but I knew he was a calf,” Mitchell said. “I asked Billy Quillan about him, because he got on him in Lakeside (Calif.). He said, ‘Man, he’s a little ittybitty bull. He’s really small, and I’m a taller guy. There were some challenges that arose with that, but it was nothing to worry too much about.’”

AQHA Partners With Working Ranch Cowboys Association

The collaboration includes AQHA supporting the 2026 WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo.

AQHA and the Working Ranch Cowboys Association have continued their partnership, keeping AQHA an official sponsor of the WRCA and its flagship event in Amarillo and adding top-horse awards for WRCA-sanctioned rodeos throughout the year.

AQHA will remain a sponsor of the 2026 WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo, which is November 12-15 at the Amarillo Civic Center, and honor an AQHA Fan Favorite remuda in addition to the domestic and international Best Remuda awards.

“Supporting the Working Ranch Cowboys Association is about backing the folks who still live the core values this industry was built on – hard work, honesty you can count on, and a true respect for the horse,” said AQHA CEO Dave Dellin. “These cowboys keep an honest, authentic way of life alive that inspires all of us in the Quarter Horse world. AQHA is proud to stand with them and honor their remudas.”

The partnership includes AQHA providing promotional support and materials for the WCRR, as well as recognizing the Top Ranching Heritage-Bred Horse and Top AQHA Youth Horse during the Youth Cow Horse Championship. AQHA will also have a booth at the event offering onsite services to process registrations and transfers.

“AQHA continues to honor the contributions that the American Quarter Horse has on the ranching community,” said WRCA Executive Director Leman Wall. “A good horse is needed to get the job done and the Quarter Horse has always been the cowboy’s tool of choice. AQHA has been with us from the start, and we are grateful for the continued partnership.”

Kurt Crawford tapped as CEO for APHA

By Jessica Hein / Paint Horse Journal

After an extensive candidate search and careful consideration, Kurt Crawford was selected as the American Paint Horse Association’s chief executive officer, effective immediately. Taking the reins of the world’s second-largest equine breed association, Kurt will lead the non-profit American Paint Horse Association, its wholly owned forprofit subsidiary Marked For Greatness Properties LLC, and the charitable American Paint Horse Foundation.

Kurt has a lifetime of experience in the equine industry, both personally and professionally. He joined the APHA

team in 2017 as director of business development. Under his guidance, Kurt more than doubled the association’s presence among corporate partners and sponsors, with sponsorship revenue now exceeding over $1 million annually. Among other duties, Kurt was instrumental in developing Marked For Greatness Properties’ privately owned events, which include the Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering and The Cowgirl Gathering. Previously, Kurt served as executive director of the Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association, senior sales executive at the National Cutting Horse Association and in other executive leadership roles.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are thrilled to welcome Kurt Crawford as CEO of APHA. His leadership, industry insight and collaborative approach make him exceptionally well-suited to guide the association as we continue to refine our strategic priorities and deliver meaningful value to our members,” APHA President Mike Holloway said. “We look forward to working closely with Kurt as we shape an innovative and sustainable future for APHA.”

A multimillion-dollar international organization, APHA is headquartered in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. There, more than 10 million annual visitors from around the world experience Western culture and gain firsthand exposure to Paint Horse via the association and its larger-thanlife “Legacy of Color” bronze statues on Mule Alley. Kurt will continue driving APHA’s mission of promoting, preserving and providing meaningful experiences with Paint Horses, while expanding the association’s global influence and presence.

“I am truly honored to serve as CEO of the American Paint Horse Association and to work alongside such a talented and passionate team,” Kurt said. “I would like to thank the APHA Board of Directors for providing me with the opportunity to lead such an innovative organization. APHA has built an incredible foundation, and I look forward to refining our strategic direction while introducing new, innovative opportunities that strengthen engagement and deliver lasting value for our members.”

APHA CEO Kurt Crawford with President Mike Holloway

BILLY MARTIN LIFE AND LEGACY

FORT WORTH, TEXAS — The National Cutting Horse Association joins the cutting horse community in honoring the life and legacy of Clarence William “Billy” Martin, a respected horseman, mentor, and longtime advocate for the sport of cutting.

Born on November 25, 1939, Billy Martin dedicated his life to family, horses, and the advancement of the sport he loved. A lifelong member of both the National Cutting Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association, Billy was a National Cutting Horse Association Non-Pro Hall of Fame member and was inducted into the NCHA Members Hall of Fame in 2019 — one of the Association’s highest honors.

Known for his passion, work ethic, and generosity, Billy raised and trained numerous championship cutting horses, including 2014 NCHA Summer Spectacular Derby Champion Laredo Montana. He also played an instrumental role in growing the sport on the East Coast through his leadership with the East Coast Cutting Horse Association and Pennsylvania Cutting Horse Association, while serving for many years as an NCHA Director for Area 19 and on the NCHA Non-Pro Committee.

“Billy Martin embodied the dedication, leadership, and heart that define the cutting horse community,” said Jay Winborn, Executive Director of the National Cutting Horse Association. “His impact on the industry, particularly through his mentorship and service, will be felt for generations. We extend our heartfelt prayers and sympathies to Kris, his children, grandchildren, and all who loved him.”

Billy passed away on April 27, 2026, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Kris, his children and grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends throughout the cutting horse industry.

2026 NCHA METALLIC CAT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

FUTURITY

Fort Worth, Texas - Due to a scheduling conflict at the Will Rogers Memorial Center, the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) will amend the dates of the 2026 NCHA Metallic Cat World Championship Futurity.

The event will now be held November 16 – December 12, 2026, instead of the previously scheduled dates of November 9 –December 5, 2026.

As a result of this adjustment, the conclusion of the 2026 NCHA point year will also move from November 8, 2026, to November 15, 2026.

The NCHA appreciates the understanding and support of its members, exhibitors, and industry partners as these necessary scheduling changes are implemented. Additional event information and updates will be communicated as they become available.

Blake Sharp’s PBR Stock Contractor of the Year honor

After earning his fourth consecutive Stock Contractor of the Year honor, Blake Sharp turned an already historic night into an unforgettable one, proposing to Dr. Caitlin Wenzel inside Dickies Arena.

By Harper Lawson

FORT WORTH, Texas –Blake Sharp knows a thing or two about taking hits.

Long before he became one of the most decorated stock contractors in PBR history, Sharp was a lineman at East Mississippi Community College, also appearing on the first season of Last Chance U. Back then, the hits came across the line of scrimmage.

These days, they come in a much different form.

Now, Sharp spends his life around elite bucking bulls, hauling some of the rankest animal athletes in the sport across the country, keeping them healthy, fed, conditioned and ready to buck under the brightest lights in Western sports.

He may have traded shoulder pads for stock trailers, football fields for arenas and playbooks for feeding programs, but Sharp has never lost the toughness that shaped him.

He just uses it differently now.

And Saturday night inside Dickies Arena, that toughness gave way to something much softer.

Sharp was crowned the 2026 PBR Stock Contractor of the Year, earning the honor for the fourth consecutive season after also winning in 2023, 2024 and 2025. The award marked another historic accomplishment for one of the premier stock contracting operations in the sport and cemented Sharp’s place among the most respected bull men in the business.

But the celebration did not end with the award.

Moments later, Sharp turned the biggest professional honor of his season into one of the biggest personal moments of his life, proposing to his longtime girlfriend, Dr. Caitlin Wenzel, in the arena as his partners, the World Finals crowd and the PBR world looked on.

She answered with an emphatic “hell yes.”

There was not a dry eye among Sharp’s partners as they cheered for the lovable Stock Contractor of the Year, a man who may be built tough like the bulls he raises but has never been afraid to show how much the people and animals around him mean to him.

In many ways, the moment showed exactly who Sharp is.

He is a gentle giant. A big teddy bear. A stock contractor with a football background, a tough exterior, a tender heart and a deep love for his bulls.

He takes harder hits now than he ever did on the football field, but he would not change it for the world.

And when asked which bull he would compare himself to, Sharp did not hesitate.

He picked Fire Zone, who finished third in the 2026 YETI World Champion Bull race.

Crites, Ashford on a roll as new team roping duo

BY ALEX DODD, PRCA MEDIA REPORTER

Team roping header Brye Crites and heeler Ross Ashford have both finished the season at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, but it’s been a while.

Crites finished 15th in the PRCA World Standings in 2022 with partner Jake Orman and picked up checks in three rounds. Ashford finished 14th in the world in 2021 and placed in two rounds at the NFR with header Clint Summers.

Since then, Crites has worked with two different partners, Ashford has competed with three, and neither has returned to the bright lights of Las Vegas since their respective debuts.

But this year, Crites and Ashford decided to team up, and halfway through the season, they’re on a roll.

“We roped together a little bit beforehand, but we’ve never rodeoed together,” Ashford told the PRORODEO Sports News after Rodeo Corpus Christi on May 9. “We just decided to try it, and it’s been really good. I like roping with Brye a lot. He’s really smart and takes care of business. He does his job when it’s time to do his job. He’s just a great partner.”

As of May 13, Crites sits sixth in the PRCA | Bill Fick Ford World Standings for headers, and Ashford is fifth in the standings for heelers.

“It’s been a great start,” Crites said. “I love roping with Ross. It’s been awesome to make a great start to the year.

“He’s got great horses. He doesn’t get down, and he’s got a great attitude. And he doesn’t ever miss.”

The duo started the year with a second-place finish at the Sandhills Stock Show & Rodeo in Odessa, Texas. They’ve also picked up checks at the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver and the Clark County Fair & Rodeo in Logandale, Nev.

Crites/Ashford also took home the top spot at La Fiesta De Los Vaqueros at the Tucson (Ariz.) Rodeo this winter.

NCHA ANNOUNCES $3.5 MILLION COMMITMENT TO FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW &

The NCHA is partnering with the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo and its support organization, Event Facilities Fort Worth, to ensure the commitment is properly allocated to appropriate equestrianrelated WRMC improvement projects.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS

— The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) is proud to announce a landmark commitment of $3.5 million over the next five years to support ongoing property improvements designed to enhance the overall experience for exhibitors, competitors, spectators, and event planners at the Will Rogers Memorial Center.

The NCHA is partnering with the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo (FWSSR) and its support organization, Event Facilities Fort Worth (EFFW), to ensure the commitment is properly allocated to appropriate equestrian-related WRMC improvement projects.

FWSSR and EFFW maintain agreements with the City of Fort Worth to provide both financial commitments and operational/ managerial functions for capital improvement projects at the cityowned WRMC facilities.

As one of the premier equine organizations in the world, the NCHA has called Will Rogers Memorial Center home for decades and recognizes the importance of continually improving the venue to meet the evolving needs of the cutting horse industry and the broader western lifestyle community.

“This commitment reflects our long-standing partnership with the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo and the City of Fort Worth,” said Jay Winborn, NCHA Executive Director.

“The Will Rogers Memorial Center is an iconic facility that plays a critical role in hosting world-class equine events, and we are proud to invest in improvements that will benefit everyone who walks through its gates.”

The $3.5 million contribution will be allocated to strategic property enhancements and facility upgrades to improve functionality, comfort, accessibility, and the overall event experience for all users of the complex.

RODEO AND WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL COMPLEX

FWSSR leadership expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership and the shared vision for the historic venue’s future.

“The National Cutting Horse Association has been an invaluable partner for many years,” said Matt Carter, FWSSR’s President and General Manager.

“Their investment demonstrates a shared commitment to preserving and improving Will Rogers.

AAEP Research Study Demonstrates Wearable Biometric Sensors Show Exciting Potential For Injury Detection In

LEXINGTON, KY — The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) has released findings from the AAEP Wearable Biometric Sensor Research Project, a first-of-itskind prospective study evaluating the effectiveness of sensor technology in detecting impending musculoskeletal injuries in Thoroughbred racehorses.

The study demonstrated

that these high-tech tools show promise as a detection system for musculoskeletal injury in racehorses and can serve as an effective complement to the existing oversight provided by veterinarians and trainers.

The project followed twoyear-old Thoroughbreds over the course of one year, capturing data in real time as the horses entered training. By analyzing high-speed

Racehorses

exercise sessions (breezes), sensors worn by the racehorses in the study provided one of three status levels: Green, Yellow, or Red.

Key Findings and Data Insights

Of the six companies selected to participate in the study, four companies successfully submitted

sufficient data reports for analysis: Alogo, Arioneo, StableAnalytics, and StrideSafe. Highlights from the data analysis include:

Increased Risk Detection: Horses flagged with a yellow or red sensor reading were about twice as likely to sustain a musculoskeletal issue compared to those with green readings.

Cumulative Credibility: The likelihood of a documented musculoskeletal issue increased progressively for horses that received multiple red or yellow designations.

Training Management: Using wearable sensors did not appear to interfere with the training regimen of study participants. Half of the two-year-olds participating in the study raced in 2025, compared to the industry average of 39.6% of eligible two-year-olds making a start in 2025.

Industry Implications

While the AAEP believes wearable biometric sensors require further refinement before becoming a mandated device in Thoroughbred racing, the information they currently provide can be useful to those making decisions regarding a horse’s health and welfare.

“This study was not intended to validate the use of sensors as a tool to scratch horses from competition on race day but rather to validate if sensors can provide more information about a racehorse’s physical condition prior to a horse being entered to race,” explained Dr. Sara Langsam, AAEP project coordinator for the study and chair of the AAEP Racing Committee.

As the Thoroughbred industry continues to implement proactive, data-driven methods for ensuring the health of racehorses, the AAEP urges racing stakeholders to pursue further prospective assessment to elucidate injury incidence and refine the sensitivity and specificity of individual sensors so that musculoskeletal injuries can be detected even sooner during training.

About the Study

The AAEP Wearable Biometric Sensor Research Project is the first prospective research project to evaluate sensor effectiveness for injury detection. Six companies utilized proprietary sensors and algorithms to detect soundness concerns in two-yearold Thoroughbred racehorses.

Honoring Freedom Night celebrates veterans and equine-assisted empowerment

By Jessica Hein / APHA

The Will Rogers Coliseum spotlight will shine on veterans, first-responders and the unbreakable bond they share with horses on June 24, 2026, during the inaugural Honoring Freedom Night at the Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth.

Honoring Freedom Night highlights the human–horse connection and its role in building trust, restoring confidence, and

creating pathways to healing and positive mental health. It’s produced by the American Paint Horse Foundation, National Snaffle Bit Association Foundation, Airpower Foundation and Two Ravens Foundation, and takes place in conjunction with the APHA World Championship Show.

The evening celebration from 5–9:30 p.m. features the NSBA Foundation Heroes on Horses competition, Two Ravens Foundation Veterans Slide contest, and moving tributes to family and service. Join us for a complimentary reception prior to the performance, followed by a concert by the Scooter Brown Band immediately afterward. This is a free event, and all are welcome.

Honoring Freedom Night features:

Pre-Event Reception

Join us at 5 p.m. to celebrate Honoring Freedom Night veterans and other community supporters who value the horse-human connection. Food trucks and fun around the newly renovated Will Rogers Coliseum concourse provide the perfect atmosphere to connect and recharge before the Honoring Freedom Night performances commence at 6 p.m. Complimentary food truck meal vouchers are available (first-come, first-served), so arrive early!

NSBA Heroes on Horses Walk-Jog Western Pleasure

The National Snaffle Bit Association Foundation and the American Paint Horse Foundation celebrate veterans, camaraderie and competition through the Heroes on Horses program. The Heroes on Horses preliminary rounds take place around noon on June 24, and the event finals take place during Honoring Freedom Night.

Concert by Scooter Brown Band

The Scooter Brown Band presents an exclusive, free concert.