BRIDLE & BIT Magazine November 2023 Edition by Bridle & Bit

NOVEMBER 2023

Casey Deary Races to Four Million Dollar Milestone

In the world of reining, Casey Deary, a distinguished NRHA Professional, has been a prominent figure among leaderboards. This year marks his latest accomplishment as he attains the prestigious title of an NRHA Four Million Dollar Rider. Remarkably, Deary achieved this milestone just over one year after reaching the status of an NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider. Deary’s illustrious career, marked by multiple NRHA Futurity Championships, NRHA Derby Championships, and World Championships in the American Quarter Horse and American Paint Horse Associations, has consistently placed him in the winner’s circle. His journey to this achievement stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment, extraordinary talent, and an array of victories within the reining industry, particularly over the past year. In 2023, Deary secured a series of remarkable victories that solidified his status as one of the most dominant figures in the reining world. These victories include clinching The American Performance Horseman (TAPH) Reining Championship, emerging as the National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC) Champion, dominating the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel Championship, and claiming the third spot in the Million Dollar Competition at The Run for a Million (TRFAM). What sets these titles apart is not only their impressiveness but also the fact that Deary achieved them within a mere six months, all while riding the same stallion. Alongside Down Right Amazing (Gunner x Shesouttayourleague), Deary added $383,000 to their NRHA lifetime earnings (LTE) this year. Together, they proved to be an unstoppable force. The stallion, owned by DAG Ventures LLC and bred by Curtis Performance Horses LLC, boasts over $600,000 in NRHA LTE, with Deary in the saddle throughout. Furthermore, Deary’s successful partnership with Customize My Dream, owned and bred by Devin Warren, earned him the title of 2022 Level 4 Open Reserve Futurity Champion. ‘William,’ as he’s affectionately known, has contributed over $200,000 to Deary’s NRHA LTE, further propelling him towards this significant milestone. Deary’s accomplishments extend beyond the show pen, as he recently assumed the role of the Texas Christian University Equestrian Team’s assistant coach, displaying his dedication to the future of reining. Residing in Weatherford, Texas, with his wife, Nicole, and their children, Wyatt, Owen, Joy, and Olivia, Casey Deary continues to make his mark in the world of reining. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Casey Deary on this remarkable achievement and the exceptional pace at which it was reached.

Casey Deary’s Key Wins Leading to His Four Million Dollar Rider Status: 2022 NRHA Level 4 Open Futurity Reserve Champion – $150,000– Customize My Dream, owned and bred by Devin Warren 2023 TAPH Reining Champion – $100,000 – Down Right Amazing, owned by DAG Ventures LLC and bred by Curtis Performance Horses LLC 2023 NRBC Level 4 Open Champion – $100,000 – Down Right Amazing, owned by DAG Ventures LLC and bred by Curtis Performance Horses LLC 2023 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel Level 4 Open Champion – $100,000 – Down Right Amazing, owned by DAG Ventures LLC and bred by Curtis Performance Horses LLC 2022 TRFAM, Million Dollar Competition, 3rd Place – $80,000 – Americasnexttopgun, owned by Jody Puno/Puno Performance Horses LLC and bred by Arcese Quarter Horses USA 14

NOVEMBER 2023

Inaugural AQHA Wrangler Women of Influence Class Unveiled

The AQHA proudly unveils the distinguished inaugural class of the Wrangler Women of nfluence, celebrating the exceptional contributions of Nancy Cahill, Robin Merrill, Carol Rose, and Georga Sutton. Influence, as defined, is the ability to shape the character, growth, or conduct of others. The American Quarter Horse industry boasts a rich history of pioneering women who have not only shattered conventional barriers, surmounted challenges, and attained remarkable achievements but have also ignited inspiration and empowerment in others.

Carol Rose

The American Quarter Horse Association, in partnership with Wrangler, is thrilled to introduce Nancy Cahill, Robin Merrill, Carol Rose, and Georga Sutton as the inaugural recipients of the Wrangler Women of Influence award. Karl Stressman, AQHA Chief Executive Officer, expressed his Robin Merrill pride, stating, “We are honored distinguished group of women inaugurate our Wrangler Women of Influence program. They embody the very essence Karl Stressman of what our Association represents in terms of character and resilience. Alongside our partner, Wrangler, we eagerly anticipate honoring their remarkable influence.”

to have this

Nancy Cahill

The Wrangler Women of Influence accolade is designed to acknowledge extraor-

Georga Sutton 26

NOVEMBER 2023

dinary women who have dedicated their lifetimes to making substantial contributions to AQHA through their careers and daily lives. These women have reshaped the industry with their vision and creativity. In harmony with Wrangler’s and AQHA’s core values, the Wrangler Women of Influence award will be an annual recognition bestowed upon four women whose character, vision, and unwavering determination have left a profound mark on the industry and those in their sphere. Jeff Chadwick, Director of Wrangler Special Events, spoke on behalf of Wrangler, stating, “In collaboration with AQHA, Wrangler is privileged to stand beside these exceptional women as they receive the Wrangler Women of Influence award. Their commitment to excellence, leadership, and community is genuinely inspiring. Each of them embodies our daily mantra – Long Live Cowgirls!”

The distinguished quartet of Cahill, Merrill, Rose, and Sutton will be officially honored at a special reception in Oklahoma City, coinciding with the 2023 Nutrena AQHA World and Adequan® Select World Championship Show. Readers can also look forward to an upcoming feature on these remarkable women in an upcoming issue of The American Quarter Horse Journal.

NOVEMBER 2023

Shortys

NOVEMBER 2023

Santagata Shines as NRHA’s Two Million Dollar Owner

offspring, SHR Hollywood Kid (out of Shinin in Hollywood), has garnered over $85,000 in earnings for NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider, Jason Vanlandingham. In Santagata’s journey to becoming a Two Million Dollar Owner, Jason Vanlandingham played a pivotal role. Over the past two years, Vanlandingham, riding Best Shine (Shine Chic Shine x Best Stop), contributed nearly $641,000 to Santagata’s owner earnings. A highlight of their partnership was their first-place victory in the 2023 The Run For A Million’s Million Dollar Competition, where they secured a substantial Santagata’s journey with NRHA began in half-million-dollar paycheck. This triumph followed 2004, when he succumbed to the allure of their impressive performance with a Level 4 Open reining with his acquisition of the reining horse, Reserve Championship at the 6666 Ranch NRHA Mark Him Mighty. Alongside his wife, Arlene, Derby presented by Markel for the NRHA Professional Bob & Kyle he has transformed Santa Hill and the Wagman Ranch Inc.-bred stallion. Ranch into an industry triumph. The final leg of the journey to NRHA Two Million DolThe ranch lar Owner status fittingly featured Santa Hill is an NRHA Ranch’s head trainer, NRHA Professional Kyle Corporate Partner and is committed to Shaw. At the 2023 All American Quarter Horse advancing reining by supporting various Congress, Shaw piloted Hes Pretty Epic to the organizations and events within the Level 2 Open Futurity industry. In 2021, Santagata’s vision for Championship and SS Spooks Sequoia to success was etched into the annals of the Level 2 Open Futurity Reserve ChampiNRHA history when he attained Million onship. These remarkable runs accumulated Dollar Owner status. over $7,600 and propelled Santagata past the Over the years, Santagata has been threshold to the NRHA milestone. Shaw and the the proud owner of many successful two Silver Spurs Equine-bred stallions went on horses. However, he regards his to earn even more in the Level 3 and 4 finals, acquisition of The Kids Gotta Gun (Spooks adding a crowning touch to a historic weekend Gotta Gun x Melimelo Kid) as a standout for both the trainer and Santagata. moment in his career. The stallion, bred by With a top-tier breeding program, skilled Tammi Julien, amassed nearly $105,000 trainers, and accomplished riders steering the in NRHA lifetime earnings (LTE) before reway, Santagata has positioned himself and tiring to the breeding shed. Only two years Santa Hill Ranch for sustained success. Holding since his first foals entered the show pen, a vision of clinching the NRHA Futurity one day, ‘Kid’ is already proving to be a radiant star there is little doubt that this NRHA Two Million Vanlandingham and Best Shine for his owner. His highest-earning Dollar owner will continue to steer his way toward further NRHA milestones in the future.

When most people envision New York, they conjure images of bustling city lights and urban landscapes. Yet, tucked away in the serene countryside of Campbell Hall lies the exquisite Santa Hill Ranch. This training, breeding, and boarding facility is the brainchild of Robert ‘Bob’ Santagata, who has now achieved the esteemed status of being an NRHA Two Million Dollar Owner.

Introducing Q-ID: Your Simplified Access to AQHA Accounts

The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is revolutionizing the login experience with the introduction of Q-ID, a fresh user ID and password system.

Q-ID is designed to streamline the process and reduce the complexity of managing multiple usernames and passwords required to access your AQHA account. It’s your gateway to effortless access. If you’re already a myAQHA account holder, you already possess a Q-ID. Simply use your existing myAQHA username and password to log in. The myAQHA login page is the first application to transition to the Q-ID system. As new AQHA applications are rolled out, you’ll continue to use the same login credentials. 40

For those who are new to myAQHA and don’t have an existing account, creating a Q-ID login is a breeze: Visit https://www.myaqha.com and select “Let’s Go!” to initiate the login process. If you’ve never used myAQHA before, on the right side of the screen, choose “Create a Q-ID.” Provide the email address you wish to associate with your Q-ID and create a secure password. Re-enter the password to confirm, and click “Create My Q-ID.” That’s all there is to it! Your Q-ID is now established. After setting up your Q-ID, you might be guided through a few additional steps to link your AQHA Member ID to specific applications, such as myAQHA. This step ensures that you enjoy full access and functionality across the board.

NOVEMBER 2023

Gunnatrashya Inducted into NRHA Hall of Fame

Gunnatrashya keeps adding one accolade after another to his record, and a Hall of Fame induction is the perfect culmination of this sire’s success.

NRHA Futurity, Derby NRBC, & AQHA World Champion

Dell Hendricks Inducted into NRHA Hall of Fame NRHA Professional Dell Hendricks, widely known for his success in the show pen, has won every major event, including the NRHA Futurity, and is a multiple NRHA Derby and American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) World Champion. Hendricks is also the only individual to have won the National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC) Open five times. In 2005, he represented the USA at the World Equestrian Games, bringing home individual and team Gold medals, and became an NRHA Million Dollar Rider later that year. “Dell Hendricks served on the executive committee and traveled internationally to host clinics on his own time to give back,” said Clark. “He is as deserving as anybody for what he gave to our industry, and I thought it was so exciting that he is finally part of this elite group.” However, his contributions to the reining industry have spanned far past his $1.8 million in NRHA lifetime earnings. Hendricks has been a long-time committee and board member and served as the association president in 2006. A graduate of Lamar College with a degree in Horse Training & Management in 1992, Hendricks continued to give back to the equine community. Whether this was through a nationally known breeding program of 25 years or holding fundraisers to benefit the youth membership and RHF, he always found ways to stay involved. Through his accomplishments and long-time dedication and service to the reining industry, Dell Hendricks deserves to receive reining’s highest honor. 44

By NRHA $14 Million Sire Gunner and out of Natrasha, the stallion owned by Arcese Quarter Horses USA has been destined for greatness since he set foot in the show pen. Gunnatrashya crossed the NRHA $10 Million Sire mark in September, just five months after crossing nine million, an impressive feat of its own. This 2006 stallion also sired three of the past four NRHA Level 4 Open Futurity Champions, $10 Million Sire and in the one year where he did not sire the champion, he sired the reserve champion. The Leading Futurity Sire Award, created to honor the late Peter Phinny’s impact on the reining industry, was created in 2021. In the first two years since its inauguration, Gunnatrashya has been the recipient. At the 2022 NRHA Futurity, the stallion had ten offspring in the Open Finals and five in the Non Pro Finals. The offspring earned $613,444 in both finals for an average of $40,896, making him the award recipient for the second consecutive year. Along with the success in the breeding shed, the stallion made his mark in the show pen. He was bred by Katarina Dorminy and co-owned by the Dorminys and Bill Horn. Gunnatrashya was sold to Arcese Quarter Horses USA as an early 3-year-old. Under the guidance of NRHA Hall of Famer Shawn Flarida, the duo won the All-American Quarter Horse Congress Futurity. The pair then accomplished something that only two horses before him had done; they went on to win the NRHA Futurity after their Congress win. Gunnatrashya was again crowned the 2010 NRHA Derby Champion with Flarida at the reins. All told, his NRHA lifetime earnings extended past $218,000. “Gunnatrashya needs no introduction,” said Clark. “Mr. Arcese has built as strong of a legacy between Europe and the USA as anybody, and it is thrilling to see it recognized with this stallion’s success. Mr. Arcese, who is now 90 years old, and his whole family have made such an impact on our industry, and so has this stallion. I am not sure where our sport would be without their family, and I am so thrilled for them.”

NOVEMBER 2023

GABRIEL BORGES INTERVIEW

Q - Your bond with the stallion 007 is truly special. Can you tell us more about it? A - Bond and I can communicate in a different way. The communication with us works in many different ways. I was present and part of the embryo, I was part of the process when he was born by picking the stallion. I rode his mama and was successful showing her in competitions. I witnessed his first loping, playing and athletic ability from the beginning. From that day I knew he was going to be special. We always know that baby horses are special, but Bond really was special! I was part of the entire process from day 1. He is different. He loves people, he loves his job, he loves to go to work the most. Bond really is in his element when he shows. He loves to show and he loves the spotlight. As I trained him from the beginning and he started to develop into the great horse that he is. I learned by him showing me each day when I was training him what a great athlete he is. When I need him, he is 100% there for me! We communicate like friends. Before we walk into the show pen, it is like he gives me a HighFive! It is like, “Let’s go Gabe, let’s do this.” Q - When did you first

Gabriel at the ranch cross paths with 007? A - I was there from day 1! He rides a lot like his momma did and he has a lot of the really good characteristics of his dad too. But, he has his own personality. His sire is Gunner Dun It Again. I love this mix. Q - Training him from the beginning must have its advantages.

How does that impact your approach and your feelings towards 007? A - What I have with this horse is something special that I have never experienced before. I have trained horses that I have made before into good horses. Usually they sell before I get to finish them. He was the first one I could actually stay with and finish and 48

BY TRACY WAGER

do the whole deal with. From start to finish to show. The Futurity, the Derby and he is only 4 years old now. We have only shown 5 times. He is just a kid! This is a great advantage to know what you have from the beginning. I know his personality so well. I want to do this all the time now. I love the experience. To me this is the greatest thing to be able to do for us horseman that love to understand the horse. What I try to do every day is understand my horses. To perfect my craft off understanding how each horse thinks and acts. When you get a chance to know them from the beginning and do everything with them from the start and then get to finish! Well, that is really just the start! It takes you to a different place as a horseman. Q - Despite his compact build, 007 is known for his big heart. Could you share the characteristics that make him a Champion? A - I love to say that Bond loves to be famous. He absolutely loves the spotlight! 007 shines whenever the pressure comes. He is a finals guy. If I need him, he is there. When I ask, he is there! We are always on the bubble when we do the go-round. Every time……I need to do a go-round with him, we are on the bubble. I get too nervous and he is too relaxed and we get penalties here and there. We always squeeze into the finals, but every time I call on him and we know the pressure is on and we need to make it happen - he is there for me. He never misses it. When we do a run where mistakes happen it is the rider, not the horse.

Q - Winning the prestigious Championship with a 232 score at the

2023 100X Reining event in Tulsa, Oklahoma must have been an incredible experience. Can you describe the emotions you both felt? A - I always knew that Bond and I could do it. It has always been a dream for me to win a big event. The night at the finals, my plan was to try to be clean. No penalties. I knew it was going to take a really high score to win. Looking at the go-rounds, how many good horses and riders were left. I warmed him up like 20 minutes and I said to myself, “I am not going to wear him out, I am going to give him the benefit of the doubt. We are going to go in fresh and try everything we had.” I was trying to go clean as well, but the minute he gave me the first maneuver when we ran into the arena, he put all his effort into it. I felt it was a plus 1.5. When I backed up and finished my stop, I said, “Ok, you know what? I am going to push to the limit. I have changed my mind.” I pushed him for everything he had and that horse gave me 110%!

NOVEMBER 2023

Q - It’s been announced that 007 will be standing at stud in Scottsdale.The 007 Ba-

bies will be part of a New second generation of a breeding program that you have been part of. How will Bond do as a sire of new of that new generation? A - Bond deserves to be a stallion because of the way he is and that is what we want to ride! We as trainers and horsemen want to ride something like this. Something that is always there for you. He is going to produce just like that. His momma was like that. She was a great show horse. His father was a great show horse. But, 007 is something special. If he can pass that off onto his offspring, it will be amazing! I have no doubt and am looking forward to ride his babies. We are going to do a few embryos for ourself and I really think it is going to be amazing!

Q - Your wife, Macy, is known for her strong support.

How does her support benefit your performance and involvement in the equestrian world? A - My wife is such a big part of all of this. She is the biggest support system and supporter of what I do, what we do….. she wants this as much as I do. To be successful in the Reining business and the show pen. She always makes sure that I have everything I need to go show. That everything is ready and I can concentrate on my horses and showing. Macy cannot always be a the shows, she stays and runs the ranch. I dont have to think or worry about anything else but showing, because it’s handled. She is a huge part of my success.

Q - You must have a great team behind you as well. A - Something that is so important and I am so thankful and

fortunate for, is meeting Sandy & Mike Vargo. They changed my life the next day! We were living in a trailer full of mice, riding at night with no lights. We know how hard it is in the Summer in Arizona, in the outside arena, no lights. In one day they changed my life……my whole career. They gave us a great house, we never would have dreamed of. I mean, never in my dreams would I have thought I would have a house like that to live in. The facility! It is the best facility in Scottsdale. I get up in the morning and go work in such a beautiful barn, the best facility. They are such great people. They make me feel like family. You know, I am a Brazilian. I left my family in another Country to come her to America and chase my dream. I would have never thought that I would have met a new family in a different Country, like the Vargo’s are for me! They opened their arms and they said, “What do you need other than be successful….Ok, here you go.” I am so thankful for all of my customers. They are great people and some of them have been with us a very long time. The list goes on and one of the many people that have helped me. I appreciate every one of them. I could not be here now if it was not for everyone along the way.

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NOVEMBER 2023

FROM PAGE 47

MORE GABRIEL

Q - How did you meet the

Vargo’s? A - I had a customer that lived in Missouri. He passed away last year. The Mitchell’s, they were all great people. Their daughter went to College with Natalie, the daughter of Sandy & Mike. Steve Mitchell then went over and spoke to Mike about me. He had also told me about Mike. I had no clue that anything would happen, then one day Steve called me and told me to call Mike. I needed to move and I called him. He said, “OK, let’s have a meeting. I have a place here and I am looking for somebody.” That is how we met. Steve Mitchell was, and his family still is, another family that I have in America. When I first moved to the United States, Steve was a big part of my life. He was the first person to believe in my ability to ride and he never judged me for where I was from or anything. He would take me to his house, we went to hunts, and everything. Steve took me to my first trip to ski. He was a great dad and husband. Another example of a great, good guy. I loved him as a brother. Steve passed away, but right before, he changed my life. All of this, is thanks to Steve first. Right before he passed away, he made this happen. He put Mike and I together. The Vargo’s have given a lot of support to me. They truly go the extra mile. They said, “Gabriel, if you see someGabriel & Macy thing you can win on, let us know.” That is a hard thing to do, to have somebody put up their money and go pick what you can win on………..So, 007 was in my barn and program already. He was an easy pick. He was one of the best horses I had in the barn and had come up for sale. I called Mike and Sandy and said, “My best horse is about to be sold and I am in a little bit in a pickle. Is that something that you guys would be interested in?” Mike asked, “Is this one you can win on?” I said, “Yes.” They both said, “Yes. No question about it, let’s buy him!” Every time we have shown him, he has been better and better. Success after success. They deserve it. They are such great people to everybody, not just me. Everybody that is around them, they always try to help everyone. That’s what 50

Gabriel & 007

life is about. Sometimes we are thinking about competition, how to be better, how to push ourselves and then you see examples of Mike and Sandy whom have achieved many goals. They already have a great life and they still look to help and make it better for others. They don’t have to. They help, they can get dirty if they need to and it is just very inspiring to me. So humble and a joy to be around. I am just so thankful for meeting them. The passion that they have. Their hearts, their ranch, their house, their attention, their time. They believe in 007, but most impressive is that they believe in me.

Q - Why do you think that you are so blessed? A - I do not know. Sometimes I think I don’t deserve that much.

Macy and I are very thankful. When I went thru a hard path in my life. Moving to a different Country, learning a new language and leaving all of my family behind to chase a dream, I did not think it was possible for a long time. We always dream about it, and then the reality come’s, you think,”OK maybe I am never going to do it, maybe I am not good enough?” I would take extra strength and just keep going and going. There was always things coming up, but most of these things were not good things. Tough times, hard times and now it’s getting better and better. It actually makes me a little afraid because so many good things have been happening, now something not so good may happen? If we are lucky for that dream to become a reality, and the reality really comes, it is such a blessing. I had been working and dreaming of this and it all has been an incredible blessing.

NOVEMBER 2023

MIKE & SANDY VARGO INTERVIEWS

BY TRACY WAGER

MIKE VARGO Q -You played football at South Carolina from 1979 to 1982, alongside Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers, who outperformed Herschel Walker that year. Did your competitive spirit develop during your time on the team? A - No, I think my competitive spirit started when I was in grade school. I was too big to play against the kids in my class, so having to play with the older guys was my only option before entering High School. Q - Your collective efforts at Vargo Ranch led to a recent victory

at the 100X Reining Horse Show in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where your stallion 007 and trainer Gabriel Borges clinched the Championship and a $150,000 prize. Could you share the emotions and thoughts that this win stirred in you? A - What Gabriel accomplished at this event, is exactly what we knew he was capable of, he just had not gotten there yet! It was a moment of validation, and we knew that we had met the right guy and the right horse. Gabriel’s work ethic and focus is second to none. What happened at the 100X was exactly what we expected from Gabriel and Bond. We were confident it was not a matter of IF; it was a matter of WHEN and it just so happened to be in Tulsa. Having an early draw, your only option is to try and mark a big number and hang on to see if it can last. There were a lot of very talented horses and riders to follow, and we knew it was going to be a long night. It was a long evening waiting for all the other phenomenal riders and horses to go, but we had a great group of friends to sit and watch with. A lot of big names came in behind Gabriel and Bond but his score and run held, the rest is in the history books! It reminded me of watching our daughter showing, and the long wait for them to announce all the names, from finalists up to the winner.

shows in Halter Classes when able. Tyler is a former Marine, we are so proud of him and all the things that he has accomplished. Tyler’s wife Jessica also shows Halter horses for us and has done very well. Natalie seems to have been on horses her whole life starting at the age of 3 attending a horse camp, and never wanting to leave. She would end up staying all day. When Natalie was ready to start showing it was with Ollie and Debbie Griffith at Autumn Rose. She started with walk-trot classes and has had the opportunity to ride with many trainers. Natalie’s youth career with AQHA was incredible. After the walk trot, she was with Jessica Johnson because she wanted to jump, so it was all Hunters for a while. She won the Equitation and the Hunter Hack at the Youth World when she was only 13! Now it is all about Reining and Horsemanship and loves the trail. That’s all she is interested in. Natalie wants to do it all, but also admits it time to start her career. This year Natalie will be showing her 3-year-old in the Futurity, and this is her first time. It will be fun and a new adventure for us all. Her horse is named Positive Times, and he is by Gunnatrashya and is out of a One Time Pepto mare that we bought from Bob and Dana Avila. He was named after Keith Maddox and his barn name is “Maddox.” That is why this horse is named Positive Times, after the American Hat Company brand +X that Keith Maddox created. There is a lot of history behind this horse and his name, so to see Natalie compete and have fun with him is our dream. A huge thanks to Bob and Dana for allowing us to own him!

before last, is known for its first-class facilities. From the state-of-the-art LED lighting in the covered arena to the well-appointed barn and amenities, everything is designed to provide a competitive edge in the world of horse showing. Can you share the story of acquiring your new ranch? A - It will be two years in December of this year. I have always had a passion to be competitive in the horse industry. My passion and success have been mainly in the world of AQHA. When Mike and I got married, and thru that process of being together and raising our daughter it just grew. We wanted Natalie to be exposed to multiple trainers and disciplines. The multiple trainers gave our daughter all the different points of view and the multiple disciplines exposed her to every aspect of the show experience. We wanted Natalie to be a well-rounded and knowledgeable horsewoman. From Western to English she has

The Vargos

Q - Your daughter Natalie is actively involved in various equestrian disciplines. She’s about to compete as a Reiner for the first time at the NRHA Futurity. What are your feelings about her participation in this event? A - We love to watch Natalie show. She loves it and has done very well. But we do not want to exclude our son Tyler Wells. Tyler works within the Engineering group of our family business and 54

SANDY VARGO Q - Your Scottsdale ranch, which you acquired year

NOVEMBER 2023

competed in it all. As time went on my daughter and I wanted to try something different, so we started Reining. In college she could be a dual rider, so she started doing the Reining in high school. At that time, we rode with Trevor Dare. He was a huge influence on all of us. Natalie really connected with Trevor, and he advanced her, and she was able to do the Reining competitions in college. Buying a ranch was not on the radar. It just came up and we said, “Let’s take a drive thru it to see what it has to offer!” We stopped over and drove thru the place the wrong way, no one was there because everyone was gone to the NRHA Futurity. Mikes father had a philosophy that he taught him from a young age, it was, “If opportunity comes, take it. If it doesn’t, make it!” When Mike and I saw this opportunity to acquire this ranch, and you look at the property values, you look at what we were trying to do in the horse industry - we had the opportunity to acquire this facility without truly a plan. But we said, “You know what, take this opportunity. We will figure it out as we go.” We bought it and the ranch sat empty for a year as we searched for the right fit. We got introduced to Gabriel thru a gentleman, who God love him, left us too early in life and that was Steve Mitchell. We will never forget this for the rest of our lives. We did not know Gabriel, we had never met him, but we had heard about him thru Pete Fulgham from Equine Mega Omega. Pete also said, “You need to meet this young man.” So, with the help of these two friends, we met Gabriel after the High Roller in Las Vegas in September a year ago. Mike called Gabriel that morning and at 5pm he was at the ranch with Macy. Mike says, “I am telling you Tracy, when they showed up, we all sat here in our ranch lounge and talked for hours. It was one of those things that you just feel it in your gut, and we knew this was our guy! We both knew that this young man was who we needed at the ranch. We also knew that Gabriel was up and coming and that we liked him! We love Gabriel and Macy like they are our own kids.

Q - Your special connection with

007 and your trust in Gabriel Borges paid off with their recent Championship win at the 100X Reining show in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Could you describe the emotions you felt when they clinched this victory? A - Gabriel proved everything he had said about that horse. It was a true validation of his work ethic and horsemanship. They had good runs before, but there was always one little thing. Bond got better and better at each big event. This win put Gabriel and Bond into that inner circle. Only a few riders have marked a 232 in their careers!

Q - Prior to your recent success in

the Reining world, you achieved a significant milestone when Dancin N The Dirt, winning the AQHA Farnham Superhorse in 2020. He was also Reserve Champion in a previous year. This is a remarkable accomplishment as the Farnham Super Horse Award is the most prestigious honor at the AQHA World. How thrilling is it to achieve such success in the world of competitive horse showing? A - Our horse, Dancin N The Dirt, is such a true All-Around horse. Superhorse is a big title. We are very proud of him and all that he has accomplished. Quarter Horse shows are so specialized, and less people really do the All Around, especially with a hunter, and he does it all. He is an AQHA Open and Youth Champion. ”Carter” also has been All Around OPEN Champion at the Quarter Horse Congress three times! Dancin N The Dirt is the winningest horse I have ever had. We still own him; he is 11 years old now and retired. He will go to Leslie Lange’s eventually and stay there for the rest of his life!

Q - It’s been announced that 007 will be available for stud services in Scottsdale for the 2024 season. Could you provide some insight into your plans for standing 007 and the significance of this decision? A - Bond is still going to be at Vargo Ranch and there is a reproduction center about a mile away called RS Reproduction. Kim Dean is going to be the Stallion Marketing Manager for Bond. Kim will handle all his breeding, and Gabriel will continue to train and show him.

NOVEMBER 2023

BRENT NAYLOR INTERVIEW

Q - When how did you first cross paths and meet Mike & Sandy Vargo? A - Usually all I do is ride horses and work, nothing just for fun. No vacations, or time off. So, I decided to do something that was just for fun and buy a side by side off-road vehicle and join a group of people that are avid fans of this sport. They go in groups and enjoy the Tonto National Forest in Arizona. Part of the group is Mike and Sandy Vargo. They had a Cam-Am and a Polaris. I had bought a 4 seater Polaris and when we all went out, it was a lot of fun. Enjoying the freedom and wilderness of the 3 million acres that the Tonto has to offer. We have a great time and make fantastic memories. They were really nice and I liked them a lot when we all were all out on the desert. They are really great people and in my life there has only been 3 really great men that I have known. Bob Dorociak, Tom Dooley, and Mike Vargo falls into that play. I know other really great men, that changed my life for the better and are dear to me, but these 3 men stand out due to other reasons. They are very successful men who have done well in business and are the most giving, big hearted, originally nice people no matter what you do. You can be a janitor, or a CEO of a large company. They don’t care, they are nice. That is the whole beauty of the side by side community, is that nobody wants anything from anyone, we are all just out there to have fun together and enjoy each others company because we are all from different walks of life but share the common bond of enjoying friends and the beautiful Sonoran Desert.

Q - So this year at the NRHA Futurity you are showing a Vargo

Ranch owned 3 year old. How did that come about? A - Because I am friends with Mike & Sandy on the group rides, and had liked them as people and how they operated, they would tell me about their horses. One day Mike called me out of the blue to ask for some information. I operate as very straightforward and as honest as I can. I don’t dance if I don’t hear music. Plain and simple and to the point. Mike asked his questions and I answered with what I believe are the industry standards. What I believe are the industry standards are, I was taught by people like Bob Avila. It might be a little old school, but for me it is the basis of this entire industry. Then I didn’t think anything of it. I just knew Mike was a great guy. Not long after that, I found out that Mike wanted to buy a horse for me to train. My first thought was, “What about Sandy? But I was told that it was because I Halo - owned by had spent that time with Mike on the phone. He appreciated my honesty Mike & Sandy Vargo and how candid I was with him, and 56

BY TRACY WAGER

that I did not beat around the bush. Just answered openly and straightforward with the truth. I was blown away and shocked! I asked them if they were sure? They answered by giving me a budget and sending me to go find a horse. We found one that we liked and it has gone forward from there.

Q - Please tell us about the 3 year old that you will be show-

ing for the Vargo’s at the Futurity in Oklahoma City? A - They purchased a 2 year old colt named Guilty Conscious “Halo”, by Gunnatrashya and out of the full sister to Lenas Wright On, he was bred by Cam Essick. Andrea Fappani and I have a very interesting relationship. We have known each other a long time. He knows what I need and what I don’t need in a horse to train and show. Andrea GUILTY CONSCIENCE has always been owned by Mike & Sandy Vargo very generous as a friend. Sharing advice, help, guidance and friendship since we were both kids in Arizona. When he has a horse that he thinks will be a good fit for me, he calls and tells me when they are a good fit for my program. In the 27 years that I have known Andrea, my barn has purchased over $6 or 700,000+ in horses from his program. During that period of time and before and after those purchases, not once has Andrea steered me wrong.

Q - How did you, Mike and Sandy find this horse? A - Andrea told me about this horse Halo, and I went over

to ride him and try him. I really liked him a lot and we just clicked. We just get a long really well. We have shown in a couple of pre-futurities and had a couple of things happen, but for me it’s a process of building up to the big event in Oklahoma City. These events before the main NRHA Futurity are what I call, “character building”. It is how you get your horse more broke and into the place that you really want him to be. Mistakes have to happen so that you can find out really where you are at and that plan was very instrumental on this horse and the plan has worked out well.

Q - What horses are you taking to Oklahoma? A - Guilty Conscious is going for Sandy Vargo and Vargo

Ranch. He is sired by Gunnatrashya, and so is the other 3 year old that is going. Cold Brew, we call him “Brewsky”. His dam is owned by Loren Booth. Her name is Shiners Gotta Whiz and she is one of Loren’s best broodmares. He carries

NOVEMBER 2023

ESPN and the AQHA and NRHA held the event here in Scottsdale at WestWorld. The line up of horses was only 10 deep, but the competition was tough! That horse and I had to go against the best of that time. Craig Schmersal, Tim McQuay, Randy Paul, Craig Johnson, Dell Hendricks, Tom Foran and others. Tom was showing Guinness, no one could beat that horse! In 2002 we made the United States Equestrian Team(now USEF) Long List of riders and went to the lazy E and then on to the famous Gladstone NJ to compete. At the Gladstone event Mr Rattle N Hum got very sick and could not compete. Dr. Jim Morgan stepped in and saved that horses life. Another horse that I trained from day one was Hollywood Yankee Kid. We were Reserve Level 4 at the NRBC and tied with Q - What is an important part of getting a young horse ready for Andrea Fappani and Todd Crawford. In 2001 I was 8th place in the this type of intense competition for you? Level 4 Open Futurity with a horse named A - I try to have relationships with my horses Kalifornia Boom whom I also trained from different from other trainers. The goal is to the start. Dun With Caution was another be their buddy and partner along side the great one. Bred by the McQuay’s that horse training. The two 3 years olds going this year and I did very well. When I worked for Craig to OK City are! They want to be partners. Schmersal after my divorce, he let me ride They do not try, they want it! To say that I am a really good one that Tim Anderson owned. extremely happy about this is an understateSmokin Paleface was Reserve Intermediate ment. Getting both of these really nice colts Open(Level 3) Futurity Champion in 2018. into my program was very exciting. Having There have been many great memories them come along thru the process, peaking made with great horses over the years, but at the right time, having them do well with the these were the first big ones. These horses training and accepting the pressure of the really helped to shape my program and Brent and Gabriel Borges on their show environment has been very gratifying. career, they are an amazing part of my life. 2023 NRHA Futurity Entries, I try to do what is best for the horse first and I am very thankful for all of the clients that at the same time what is best for the owner/ Certified Copy & Guilty Conscience have given me the opportunities now and in client. In my opinion I am the employee and I the past to have great horses to show. I love work for the client and the horse. I take mywhat I do and I love these animals and it is not self out of the equation. These horses need to be taken care of the about if you win or if you lose, it is how you won and how you lose. right way, they need care and upkeep every day just like any athFor me the horse comes first. Always I look out for the client and try lete. You cannot just take, take, take. This goes for all parts of life, and do what is best for everyone involved, I am just an employee. personal and professional. When you get a little, you have to give a little. Q -Where do you train out of now? Getting these young horses to peak at the right time is tricky A - I have my own place in Rio Verde, outside of Scottsdale, on and a critical as part of the process. Most horses get peaked pre154th Street and Skinner. I only keep a 15 stall barn because I like maturely and by the time the big Futurity comes, there is nothing to know everything that is going on with the horses in my care. The left. It is like walking a tight rope. It is a feel, nothing finite that I can stall behavior, the way they get cared for, everything that goes on explain. It is knowing when to push and when not to push. Both my with each horse, I keep tabs on everyday. We do not have any ashorses did not do so well at the High Roller Futurity in Las Vegas. sistants, I do all the riding myself. Right now we have a young lady We had some things come up and that showed me what needed named Isabell Hutchings that is here and works side by side with to be worked on. At the Best of the West I felt they both were more me each and every day. She saddles, grooms and takes care of mature and locked in. Peaking at the right time is hard to accomeverything in the barn and this allows me ride everything. It is really plish, but is very import in the futurity preparation. It is the basis a blessing. I love all my horses, every one single one of them in the for every reining horse. Not only how prepared they are for the big barn. This is an important part of being a trainer. You have to have Futurity, but this sets the pace for the rest of their show careers. horses and people you like as part of the program. I love to go to It is the base map for a reining horse to have confidence, to be work everyday! prepared, physically and mentally strong and ready…..so that the I want to Thank everyone that has helped me along the way, focus of myself and these horses can be on showing. The training and they all know who they are. Some, but not all, are Bob Avila, and preparation are the cake. For this year my futurity horses have Andrea Fappani, Craig Schmersal, the Vargo’s, Mike & Sandy, the cake baked - now we are ready to show in Oklahoma City - that Tracy Wager, those are on the top of my mind, but there have is the icing! been so many along the way and I am so very thankful to each and every one. Not often enough do we really recognize and thank the Q - Brent, you have been involved with Reining and showing people that deserve it. These people that help to make us, they do Reining Horses a long time. Can you tell us about some of the big not have to do any of this. On TV right now, its all about the explomoments in your career? sions going on in Israel, and we are sitting here at the beautiful A - Right after I worked for Bob Avila, and moved to Arizona, I had Vargo Ranch in Scottsdale. How lucky are we? To be able to do a horse named Mr Rattle N Hum. He was the first big time horse what we do with horses and to do what we love to do? I trained from the start and we did really well showing. We won the NRBC Level 3 Open Championship. Rattle N Hum and I won the very first USET Reining qualifier in 2001. It was televised on the Booth Ranch brand on his hip and riding a horse at the Futurity that is part of Loren’s very successful program is exciting. Robin Filbry and I own this colt in a partnership. Robin picked this one and when I went to try him, I really liked how he felt. This horse has come a long way during the last year. It is always a process with these young horses and when you start them they can have all the breeding, but you really don’t know what will happen. This one was a real diamond in the rough! Brewsky has really turned out to be a nice horse. He just did great at the Best of the West Reining here in Scottsdale. We are really happy and excited about both of the Futurity horses that are going to Oklahoma City this year.

NOVEMBER 2023

Q - Mr. Farenheit boasts

an impressive show career with LTE earnings exceeding $256,526. What qualities do you believe make Mr. Farenheit so beloved among enthusiasts?

A - We believe “Freddie’s”

most appealing qualities are his captivating arena presence, along with the way he carries himself. He also goes in and does his job every time he enters the show pen regardless of who is riding him.

Mr. Farenheit Q & A with Ruben Vandorp

winning the Summer Slide and tying to win The Best of the West, we felt our horse was capable of winning the Futurity. We wanted to give

Q -We last witnessed

Q -Are Mr. Farenheit’s offspring

Mr. Farenheit, affectionately known as “Freddie,” at The Run For A Million, where Mandy McCutcheon rode him in the Open class. At just 5 years old, Freddie delivered an outstanding score of 225.5 in Las Vegas. How does a young horse like Freddie achieve such remarkable success?

A -Again, he knows

his job and takes his job very seriously. It’s easy for him and he wants to please. We have also tried to be smart managing both his show career and his breeding career by limiting shows and mares based on communication from his riders/ trainers, breeding managers and everyone involved, including Freddie.

Q - Mr. Farenheit has been

ridden by several top reining showmen, consistently performing well. Freddie’s strong mindset and adaptable temperament have allowed him to excel under diverse riders. Could you elaborate on who has shown him and the strategic thinking behind this approach?

A - Morin and Vandorp part-

nered on him as a yearling. Max Morin did his two year old training and then Ruben took over to show him in his early three year old career. After 58

Farenheit, sired by Magnum Chic Dream and out of Wimpy Little Girl (by Wimpys Little Step), represents the pinnacle of combining exceptional bloodlines in the industry. inheriting the looks, talent, and intelligence of their sire?

A - Not only does Freddie look

him the best shot possible and with our longtime friendship and business relationship with Andrea Fappani, he was the obvious man for the job.

A - Longtime friend Tim

McQuay had been helping Ruben at all the major shows throughout 2023 and contributed to their tremendous success. So, after Mandy qualified for The Run for a Million, as well as the horse standing at McCutcheon Reining Horses, it made sense to keep the horse where he could continue to breed, be trained by Tim and then showed by the top, most talented Non Pro in our industry. We knew he would fit her perfectly!

Q - Offspring of Magnum

like a clone of Magnum, his first foal crop has exceeded our expectations. With such a strong bottom side in Wimpys Little Girl, the babies have inherited Freddie’s beautiful topline, effortless movement and he is putting color on them as well. With all the stallions in our industry that are currently breeding, Mr Farenheit’s exceptional bloodline that you mentioned above, allows for him to be the perfect outcross on Gunner, Spooks Gotta Whiz, Gunnatrashya and other mares bred by the industry’s top stallions.

tmreining.com/stallions/ McCutcheonBreeding@gmail. com 2024 Breeding Fee: $2500 including chute fee; $2000 early booking special until December 31, 2023; discounts for ICSI mares.

Q - Will Mr. Farenheit be participating in any shows for the remainder of 2023?

A - No he will not be shown in the remainder of 2023 but will continue breeding for frozen semen. Q -I s it possible for interested

parties to see him at the NRHA Futurity in Oklahoma City?

A - He will not be in Oklahoma

City, but people are always welcome to come visit him and take a photo at McCutcheon’s in Aubrey, TX.

Q - If not, is there an opportu-

nity to meet with Ruben or Melissa Vandorp at the Futurity?

offspring currently available for purchase or consigned in sales?

A - The partners, Max and Alexis Morin and Ruben and Melissa Vandorp will be available to meet at the Futurity. McCutcheon Breeding will have a stallion booth where those interested can come meet with the Breeding Manager, have any questions answered and see what kind of Mr Farenheit goodies may be available!

A - With it being his first foal

Q - How did the partnership

Q - Are any of Mr. Farenheit’s

crop, we haven’t seen a lot for sale but we are happy to assist our customers by aiding in promoting and forwarding information on those that do have offspring for sale. So if you have one for sale or are thinking about it, contact us.

Q - Mr. Farenheit stands at

Chic Dream have excelled in both Open and Non-Pro/Amateur classes, often competing in both at the same show. Mr.

A - Contracts can be found at

Tom McCutcheon’s facility and is a part of their breeding program. Could you provide details on the process of breeding to this stallion?

NOVEMBER 2023

and program with Vandorp/Morin come to include Mr. Farenheit?

A - Our customers and good

friends Peter and Courney Morgan bred and raised Freddie. After a visit to their ranch in Florida, Ruben purchased him as a yearling. After Max started him, he could feel the potential within his first few rides. After that, our partnership blossomed and we’ve just been enjoying the ride!

NOVEMBER 2023

Spooks Gotta Whiz Achieves Six Million Dollar Milestone

Eight Million Dollar Rider Andrea Fappani and Mic Dropp, a descendant of Dun Dry Whiz. This dynamic duo clinched the 100X Level 4 Open Championship, contributing almost $130,000 to Spooks Gotta Whiz’s offspring earnings in 2023, following their role in pushing the sire past the $5 million threshold at the 2022 NRHA Futurity.

The futurity season is ablaze with remarkable performances in the reining world, characterized by record-breaking payouts and reiners advancing to remarkable milestones at an astonishing pace. Among the distinguished echelons stands Spooks Gotta Whiz, an illustrious NRHA Hall of Famer, who has now ascended to the esteemed status of NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire.

Spooks Gotta Whiz’s offspring leading the charge include: Alpha Jac Sparrow (out of Chexanicki), owned by Fritz Leeman and bred by Alpha Quarter Horses LLC, boasting earnings of $237,664. Mic Dropp (out of Dun Dry Whiz), owned by Tim Anderson/ Clark Reining Horses LLC and bred by Clark Reining Horses LLC, accumulating earnings of $215,927. Dolittle Lena), owned by Kevin Truax and bred by Bobby Lewis, amassing earnings of $215,585. Spooky Whiz (out of Myo Starlight), owned by Bosque Ranch Performance Horses LLC and bred by Spence Bell, securing earnings of $186,043. Gotta Twist It Up (out of Make It With A Twist), owned and bred by Sandra Bentien, achieving earnings of $183,837.

Born in 2007, Spooks Gotta Whiz is a progeny of Spooks Gotta Gun and Prettywhizprettydoes, bred by Clint Haverty. Under the ownership of Michell Anne Kimball, this remarkable stallion garnered a staggering $345,000 in NRHA lifetime earnings. In 2010, he and NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider Jordan Larson clinched the NRHA Level 4 Open Futurity title. In 2012, the reins were passed to NRHA Seven Million Dollar Rider Shawn Flarida, culminating in victories at the Level 4 Open Championships at the NRHA Derby and the National Reining Breeders Classic. Their journey culminated in a glittering gold medal triumph at the 2014 World Equestrian Games, solidifying their illustrious career. Now, Spooks Gotta Whiz has transitioned into an elite sire within the reining realm, boasting a roster of 475 money-earning offspring with NRHA, with many more poised to embark on their earning journeys. His progeny have demonstrated their prowess on the grandest stages in reining, including emerging events like The American Performance Horseman. Spooks Gotta Whiz’s remarkable ascent to the Six Million Dollar Sire status was catalyzed by standout performances at the 2023 100X Reining Classic. The stallion’s lineage was well represented, with 27 offspring participating in the Open and Non Pro Stakes, amassing over $444,000 in earnings. Noteworthy among them were NRHA Million Dollar Owner and 60

After reaching his initial million-dollar milestone in 2018, Spooks Gotta Whiz has raced through subsequent milestones at an unparalleled pace. While this Hall of Famer has already etched his name into the annals of NRHA history, it appears inevitable that he will continue to ascend to new heights. Our heartfelt congratulations go to the newest Six Million Dollar Sire in NRHA, Spooks Gotta Whiz, and owner Michell Anne Kimball. NOVEMBER 2023

NOVEMBER 2023

Two Stallions Gallop Past the Two Million Dollar Mark

Shine Colt Shine (Gunners Miss The reining world celebrates Oak), owned by Gaynia Revenberg, the continued success of Shine bred by Amabile & Strusiner. Chic Shine, as this remarkable Shine Plum Shine (Plum Reynstallion, purchased at the NRHA ing), owned by Barbara Phillips, bred Markel Futurity Sales, adds anby Rosanne Sternberg. other milestone to his illustrious Shining N Tinseltown (Wimps Tincareer. Two years after achievseltown), owned by Steve Opell, bred ing the million-dollar landmark, by Charles Vaughan. ‘Shine’ has now earned his rightInferno Sixty Six ful place as an NRHA Two Million A mere 15 months after reaching Dollar Sire. the prestigious status of an NRHA Bred by Manntana LLC, Million Dollar Sire, Inferno Sixty Six Shine, guided by NRHA Hall of has achieved yet another remarkable Famer Shawn Flarida, showmilestone. This exceptional stallion cased his prowess at only six is now officially recognized as an events, amassing over $148,000. NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire, a tesTheir journey began in 2011 tament to his extraordinary lineage when they secured a National and success, just three years after Reining Breeders Classic Level 4 his first foals entered the show pen. Open Championship after a thrillBred by Hilldale Farm, Inferno ing runoff, as well as an NRHA Sixty Six, sired by NRHA $10 MilDerby Level 4 Open Co-Reserve lion Sire Gunnatrashya and out of Championship, etching their the Hall of Famer and Million Dollar names into reining history. Dam, Snip O Gun, displayed promise With parentage traced to two Shine Chic Shine with Shawn Flarida from the day he was born. NRHA Hall of Famers (Smart Chic Olena Under the ownership of Domenico and Ebony Shines), Shine Chic Shine is Lomuto, with Slide or Die LLC, the foal was confidently predicted now gracefully producing the next generation of reining royalty. to become the 2015 NRHA Futurity Champion, and the prophecy At the 2023 The Run for a Million, Shine’s most accomplished was nearly fulfilled. Million Dollar Rider Franco Bertolani guided offspring, Best Shine, triumphed in the Million Dollar Competition Inferno Sixty Six to share the high score in the 2015 NRHA Level 4 Championship alongside rider Jason Vanlandingham. This vicOpen Futurity Finals. Following a captivattory set off a chain reaction of milestones, ing runoff, the pair secured the Reserve propelling Best Shine’s dam, Best Stop, to Championship with just half a point less. the esteemed status of NRHA Million DolTheir partnership was prolific, garnering lar Dam, Vanlandingham to the celebrated over $205,000 in earnings. rank of NRHA Three Million Dollar Rider, As Inferno Sixty Six’s progeny continue and Shine Chic Shine to the revered posito make their mark, his latest 3-yeartion of an NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire, all olds have entered the show pen. Inferno under the ownership of Fabio De Iulio. Thirty Five, bred by NRHA Corporate Shine Chic Shine’s offspring have not Partner Cardinal Hill Training Center LLC only dazzled NRHA Professionals but have and owned by Steve Archer, has already also left their mark on the non-professional proven himself. With the skilled guidance circuit. Shining N Tinseltown, ridden by of NRHA Eight Million Dollar Rider Andrea Emily Opell, has accumulated $53,631 in Fappani, Inferno Thirty Five triumphed in NRHA lifetime earnings (LTE), with the pair The Invitational Open Futurity in Tulsa with securing all but $45 of his LTE together. a remarkable score of 225, earning the Their most significant victory came at the duo $100,000. 2022 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel, where they clinched the Level 2 As the fall season brings forth many Non Pro Championship. major futurities, Inferno Sixty Six is already on a path that leads to his next millionShine Chic Shine’s top-earning dollar milestone. offspring include: Inferno Sixty Six boasts nine offspring Best Shine (Best Stop), owned by Bob with more than $50,000 in NRHA Lifetime Santagata, bred by Wagman Ranch Inc. Earnings. PS Mega Shine Chic (Megas Sugar Baby), owned by Adh-Mor Ranch, Patsy Shelton Schutz. 62

NOVEMBER 2023

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NOVEMBER 2023

AL DUNNING

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NOVEMBER 2023

Q & A - Kim Dean -The Breeding Barn

Q - You're now managing Vargo Ranch's stallion, Bond "007," a

four-year-old performance horse that recently scored an impressive 232 at the 100X Classic Horse Show with Gabriel Borges in the saddle. Could you provide us with insights into the process of breeding to "007"? A - Since it was recently announced that Mike and Sandy Vargo were going to stand Bond “007” to the public for the 2024 breeding season, we have been inundated with requests for contracts from mare owners in the US, Europe, and Mexico. We are presently collecting frozen semen from Bond "007” and will be shipping to Europe in early December. Breeding fees for the 2024 Breeding season are $2500 for frozen semen which includes two doses of frozen. The only other cost to mare owners will be for shipping. For information or contracts on Bond “007, I’m available anytime via phone/text/email and WhatsApp. We expect a full book on Bond "007” and we’ll be ready to start shipping the beginning of February 2024.

Q - Where will “007” be standing

for

collection in the 2024 season? KIM DEAN A - Roger Souzer, owner of RS Equine Reproduction in Scottsdale, AZ will be the Stallion Breeding Manager for Bond "007”. Roger is very knowledgeable in all aspects of stallion management, and he maintains a top-notch facility with state of the art equipment. Roger will be in charge of collecting, analyzing, extending, processing, and shipping all cooled and frozen semen. To make it easy on our mare owners, there will be just one point of contact for the entire breeding experience. All communication in regard to breeding will go directly to me. Mare owners can contact me 7 days a week for information on Bond “007”, for contracts for mares in the US, Europe, Mexico, and Canada, for shipped semen requests, etc.

Q - Are there plans for "007" to continue participating in shows

during the 2024 season? A -Bond "007” will continue in training in 2024 and will show at limited shows.

Q - The goal and reasoning to start “The Breeding Barn” as a

business is a lot of work. What prompted you to take this on? A - In 1981, I received degrees in Marketing and Entrepreneurship & New Business Venturing at Indiana University, Kelley School of Business. In 1982, we moved to Texas to work for Tommy Manion, one of the top western pleasure trainers in the country at that time. During my 13 ½ years there, we stood some of the top cutting, western pleasure, and halter horses in the country -- Smart Little Lena, Pretty Impressive, Hotrodders Jet Set, etc. It was at the Manion Ranch where I learned the entire business of marketing horses for breeding and for the show pen. Eventually, we bought our own ranch and later bought a young western pleasure stallion. It was just the natural progression of things for me to begin the marketing of this new stallion prospect.. That stallion was the 2020 AQHA Hall of Fame Inductee, A Good Machine—considered to be one of the top sires of western pleasure horses still today. When he passed away in 2011, stallion owners contacted me about working with their stallions and that is how The Breeding Barn began. I presently market 10 studs and we ship both cooled and frozen semen across the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia.

Q - You've established "The Breeding Barn" as your management

program. Could you give us an overview of how "The Breeding Barn" benefits consumers and operates? A - When you’re working with the public and especially in the horse business, two of the most important things you can offer is excellent customer service and a high quality product, and that my goal, every single day. The Breeding barn is virtually a ‘one stop shop”. For the mare owners; from the first call for a contract, to the first shipment of semen, to the baby pictures we post on Facebook and Instagram, to sending out the breeders certificates (and everything in between)--they get me on the phone. For the stallion owners: from processing the contracts, to maintaining stallions spreadsheets, to preparing stallion breeding reports, etc—they get me, on the phone, every day. Excellent customer service and a high quality product is what I offer potential stallion and owners.

NOVEMBER 2023

PRORODEO HALL OF FAMER, NFL STAR WALT GARRISON PASSES AWAY

Walt Garrison, a Super Bowl-winning running back for the Dallas Cowboys and a member of the ProRodeo Hall of Fame, passed away Oct. 11. He was 79. Garrison was known for his career with the Dallas Cowboys where he was a star fullback from 1966-74. Garrison played 119 regular season and 13 playoff games for the Cowboys over nine seasons and still ranks fourth on the club’s all-time list for average yards per rush (4.32) and is ninth in career rushing yards (3,491).

In Super Bowl VI in Dallas’ 24-3 win over the Miami Dolphins on Jan. 16, 1972, Garrison had 14 rushing attempts for 74 yards, and he caught two passes for 11 yards. He also was a cowboy in the literal sense, performing in rodeos during the offseasons and even, for a while as a rookie, the night before home games. “People ask me what my greatest thrill was,” Garrison said in the 1983 PRCA Media Guide, “and, I tell them winning the Super Bowl. But second is taking fifth place up in Cheyenne.” Garrison was a steer wrestler in the PRCA, and his top highlight was placing fifth in the average at the 1974 Cheyenne (Wyo.) Frontier Days. Garrison also was a representative of the U.S. Tobacco Company and was an active promoter of rodeo nationwide. Garrison was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colo., as a notable in the 2018 class. “We ran around together for a long time,” ProRodeo Hall of Famer Roy Cooper said. “He liked to do what he did best, he liked to bulldog steers and he liked to play football. He was fun to hang out with. There was never a dull moment, it was always fun to be around him. I enjoyed him and he was a good friend of mine for a good while. He took me everywhere. He signed me up with the (U.S. Tobacco Company) and when I was younger, he took me a l ot of places and hung out with me. We spent a lot of time together. “He was a character. He could tell poems and jokes and he was funny. He also was a good bulldogger, and he did a lot for rodeo with U.S. Tobacco Company. You can’t say anything bad about him.” Fellow ProRodeo Hall of Famer Phil Lyne concurred with Cooper about Garrison. “Walt was a great guy,” Lyne said. “He was always in a good humor and pleasant to be around.” And, Lyne said he and Garrison had a running dialogue about f ootball. “Walt and I had a deal where we would see each other and I would tell him ‘Let’s talk about some football,’ and he would say ‘No,’” Lyne said with a laugh. “I can’t remember how that started but he really didn’t talk a whole lot about football. He was just a super guy who was a lot of fun to be around.” Garrison grew up in Lewisville, Texas, where he spent his youth riding horses and steers. He competed in high school rodeo in bareback riding, bull riding, calf roping and steer wrestling. He never hid his passion for rodeo according to his son, Marty. “His first love was rodeo, no doubt, ever since he was really young,” said Marty Garrison to the ProRodeo Sports News in 2018. “That’s what he would have done had he not played football in college and then got drafted by the Dallas Cowboys. His whole life, his love was rodeo.” Transitioning from standout NFL running back to a steer wrestler wasn’t too complicated for Garrison. “There’s a lot of similarities between rodeo and football,” Garrison said in an article posted Oct. 11 on Dallascowboys.com. “Steer wrestling probably takes, depending on the size of the steer, the time is anywhere from three and a half seconds to six seconds. And a football game lasts a lot longer, but if you take an individual play in football, a regular play is three or four seconds. And the amount of energy and the amount of focus you need to have in bulldogging is the same as in football.” 72

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NRHA FUTURITY JUDGES The NRHA Futurity Judges Final Selection Subcommittee met on August 2 to finalize the list of judges for the 2023 NRHA Futurity & Adequan® North American Affiliate Championships (NAAC). The subcommittee unanimously voted to accept the following judges and alternates.

The non pro team in the Coliseum will include Bob Poplin Bob Kail, Van Luse, Terry Thompson, Patrick Wickenheiser, and Buddy Fisher. The open team in the Coliseum will include Bub Poplin, Maik Bartmann, Kelly Sapp, Cathy Luse, and Mark Turner. Coliseum alternates include Ryan Kail, Rick Lemay, and Enrico Righetti. The equipment judge will be Greg Darnall, with Tom McBeath as an Bob Kail alternate. The Adequan® arena judges will be Todd Arvidson, Mack Weaver, Ryan Kail, and Jan Hay, with Rick Weaver and Jan Dublin as alternates. “I am so pleased with the selection of judges for the 2023 NRHA Futurity,” said NRHA Sr. Director Kelly Sapp of Education & Officials Patti Carter. “The judging process is crucial to ensuring fairness and accuracy in evaluating the performances of our great equine athletes and their riders. This is a top-shelf group of judges and monitors. Kudos to the judges committee for their commitment to excellence in judge selection.” For more information, visit NRHA.com/judges

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BRODY CRESS, QWINT STROH SPLIT BRAD GJERMUNDSON EXTREME BRONCS EVENT

Huge prizes attracts big-time riders Brody Cress’ resume stands near the top, boasting a plethora of accolades in a loaded saddle bronc riding field. Saturday night, Cress notched another, claiming a split-victory at the Brad Gjermundson Extreme Broncs event in New Town, N.D.

guys every time because it’s about showing up, doing your job, and being around your buddies,” Cress said. “It’s great to have it that way.” Cress’ 2023 campaign was atypical. He spent much of the season on the bubble, a position he admits he’s never been in before. It forced him to make midseason adjustments, including saddle change. However, the The multiple-time NFR qualifier topped the decorated group in his event didn’t make it leaderboard with Qwint Stroh at 265.5 points easy on him. on three head, each taking home $10,960. “There’s a number of good guys in this Opportunities to grab money early in the 2024 field. You can’t take a breath or take it slow season are something Cress aims to capitalize throughout the year,” Cress said. “You have to on. keep pushing if you want to be at the NFR at “It’s the biggest (saddle) bronc match that we the end of the year.” get to have in terms of added money. They do a BRODY CRESS Even after the changes, Cress didn’t panic. Instead, great job getting the best stock there while continuing he doubled down on his processes. to try and grow the event,” the Wyoming native said. “It’s about “I had to refocus and figure out how I could get back to being just taking it one horse at a time. Anything can happen up there, successful and being consistently successful,” said Cress. “I’ve especially when you go from hoppers to the first round and so focused on the process while back at home and it’s been working forth. It gives you a lot of opportunities to win money and do well at out.” it.” The strategy paid dividends, earning Cress a seventh-straight For Stroh, the win marks the biggest in his young professional NFR appearance. The three-time NFR average title winner awaits career. The Montana native doubled his career earnings after just another opportunity to shine in Las Vegas, something he’s itching riding sparingly in his rookie season. However, as Cress stated, a for on the sport’s biggest stage. win against a field featuring many NFR qualifiers can carry more “I’m ready to rock n’ roll,” Cress said. “I’m attacking it with every value than prize money. expectation that I can chase another NFR average title and a World “That’s what you want. You want to be riding against the best Title.” 86

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2023 Nutrena Horse of the Year Winners

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Success in the sport of rodeo doesn’t fall on just the human athlete. Their horses play just as big of a factor when they step foot in the arena. The Nutrena Horse of the Year presented by AQHA awards provides recognition to ProRodeo’s top horses. Making the award extra special to each WPRA member is the fact that their fellow competitors are the ones that vote on this prestigious award.

The 2023 Nutrena Horse of the Year presented by AQHA awards were unveiled Oct. 11. Winning for the for the first time in the barrel racing category was Fame Fire Rocks “PopRocks” ridden by Taycie Matthews and owned by Mission Ranch LLC. PopRocks, a daughter of FireWaterOnTheRocks and out of W R Aces Fame has carried Matthews not only to a College National Finals Rodeo Championship in 2023 and to the winner’s circle in Salinas but also to her first Wrangler NFR qualification coming in ranked No. 4. Matthews of Wynne, AR, has earned $144,161 after competing in 79 rodeos. A horse that was meant to be her mother Kim’s horse joined the Matthews’ barn in January of 2022 after Janna Beam Brown had trained the now 6-year-old sorrel mare. Taycie’s older sister, Jaylie first rode the mare at the CNFR in Casper in 2022 winning a round but since then Taycie has laid claim to the horse after finishing as reserve WPRA rookie of the year in 2022. Finishing second was Jets Top Gun “Benny” owned by Busby Quarter Horses and ridden by Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi, who carried his jockey to the Reno, Calgary and Salt Lake City titles just to name a few this summer. It was in Salt Lake City that Pozzi Tonozzi crossed the $3 million mark in career earnings. Rounding out the top three in the barrel racing was Fiery Miss West owned by Gary Westergren and ridden by Jessica Routier. Routier claimed the NFR Open title in the mud this summer aboard Missy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Routier will be making her sixth appearance at the NFR in December.

No Wimpy Turns “Onna” ridden by Shelby Boisjoli - Photo by Clay Guardipee

On the breakaway roping side, a familiar name is back in the top spot. No Wimpy Turns “Onna” won the inaugural Nutrena Horse of the Year presented by AQHA in 2021 and returns to the top of the list just like her jockey Shelby Boisjoli in 2023. Setting a record in breakaway roping earnings Boisjoli and Onna enter the National Finals Breakaway Roping with $164,549 earned at 100 rodeos competed in. Finishing second in the breakaway roping votes was Kits Tiana Play “Little Man” ridden and owned by Kelsie Domer. Domer, who has won three WPRA breakaway roping world titles, finished the regular season ranked fifth with $112,281. Rounding out the top three rope horses was Joey Williams’ Baybe Bullet “Baybe”, who took top honors in the 2022 Horse of the Year voting. This year Baybe carried Williams to not only the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo title but also the Pendleton Round-up title. The top three horses in each WPRA category are listed below.

Barrel Racing

Fame Fire Rocks “PopRocks” ridden by Taycie Matthews - Photo courtesy Taycie Matthews

1st place – FAME FIRE ROCKS (ridden by Taycie Matthews – Owned by Mission Ranch LLC) 2nd place – JETS TOP GUN (ridden by Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi – Owned by Busby Quarter Horses) 3rd place – FIERY MISS WEST (ridden by Jessica Routier – Owned by Gary A Westergren)

Breakaway Roping

No Wimpy Turns “Onna” ridden by Shelby Boisjoli - Photo by Fernando Sam Sin NOVEMBER 2023

1st place – NO WIMPY TURNS (ridden & owned by Shelby Boisjoli) 2nd place – KITS TIANA PLAY (ridden & owned by Kelsie Domer) 3rd place – BAYBE BULLET (ridden by Joey Williams – Owned by Taylor or Joey Williams)

NOVEMBER 2023

The boys in black

battled and fought to lay everything out on the line. Not where we wanted to be but grateful to be taking home a third place finish as the 2023 PBR Teams Championship.

2023 Halter Million Awards Over $1.4 Million in Cash Prizes at Premier Event

Fort Worth, Texas - Exhibitors had the chance to claim their share of a remarkable cash prize pool exceeding $1.4 million during the highly-anticipated 2023 APHA/ WCHA Halter Million. This esteemed competition, presented jointly by the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) and the World Conformation Horse Association (WCHA), unfolded from September 23 to October 1 in Fort Worth, Texas. The premier halter competition featured a prestigious lineup of events, including the APHA World Championship and Breeders’ Futurity Gold & Platinum contests, as well as the WCHA Breeders’ Championship, Big Money Futurity, and Yellow Rose all-breed futurities. A total of 493 exceptional horses participated. A record-breaking 2,427 entries were registered, reflecting the increasing enthusiasm of competitors. A 2% growth in the APHA Breeders’ Futurity class entries and a similar 2% growth in the WCHA all-breed class entries underscored the thriving interest in these events. 96

The event featured a grand total of 56 APHA world championship classes, 20 APHA Breeders’ Futurity classes, and 39 WCHA classes. The cumulative cash payouts exceeded an impressive $1.4 million, with remarkable new records set: APHA Platinum Breeders’ Futurity classes reached an extraordinary $330,850 in payouts. APHA Gold Breeders’ Futurity classes celebrated a new record with a total payout of $109,941. For a more detailed insight into the APHA Breeders’ Futurity events, please visit APHA Breeders’ Futurity events. Furthermore, the event recognized leading owners, breeders, and owner/breeder/exhibitors, celebrating their contributions to the world of halter competition. To learn more about these distinguished awards, kindly visit Awards Information. Plan Ahead for Next Year’s Spectacular Event! Save the date for the upcoming APHA/WCHA Halter Million event, scheduled to take place from September 21 to 29, 2024, at the renowned Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas.

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Top Market for Slate River Ranch Sale

Junie Wood daughter Ethell topped the sale at

$200,000

October 6 - The 2023 Slate River Ranch Broodmare and Yearling Sale, held at the Weatherford, Texas ranch on October 6th, posted an average of $34,553 on 38 horses, signaling a strong market for major upcoming fall sales. The sale offered live internet bidding via CCI. live and also introduced the $50,000 Slate River Ranch

Incentive for all yearlings purchased at the October 6th sale. Ethell, a daughter of Slate River Ranch’s leading money earner and NCHA Open Horse of the Year Junie Wood (LTE $526,845), was the sale highseller at $200,000. Purchased by Graystone Ranch, Devlyn and John Lowrance, Weatherford, Tex., the 7-year-

old daughter of Metallic Cat and earner of $20,208, sold bred to Countin Hot Checks. Play Miss (LTE $180,165), at $180,000, the second-highest seller, with an embryo by Stevie Rey Von, was purchased by West Coast Cutting Horses, Suzy Rodoni Silverberg, Soquel, Calif. Sired by Playgun and out of a Smart Little Lena daughter, 20-year-old Play Miss has produced earners of $958,116.

Other top sellers include:

Thatz All Folks, bred to Metallic Rebel and purchased for $97,000 by Paula Wood, Dublin, Tex. Sired by Boon Too Suen, 9-year-old Thatz All Folks (LTE $43,289) is out of High Brow Cat daughter That Catomine (LTE $125,319), the dam of earners of $1,125,959, including Duramax Dually (LTE $518,633), by Dual Rey. Eight-year-old Kit Katnlizzie was purchased for $70,000 by Cole Tachdjian, Orange, Calif. The Kit Kat Sugar daughter is out of Stylish Lizzie (LTE $90,697), the dam of earners of $146,484 and full sister to Moms Stylish Player (LTE $431,682), who is out of Moms Stylish Babe, dam of the earners of $1,473,469. Kit Katnlizzie, whose oldest foal is a 3-year-old by Metallic Rey Mink, sold bred to Metallic Rebel. Miss Abbies Cat, an 11-year-old daughter of High Brow Cat, sold for $68,000 to Warwick Screen, Owens Gap, NSW. Bred to Boon Too Suen and dam of one money earner, Miss Abbies Cat, is out of Play Miss (LTE $180,165).

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Metallic Tuff, a 12-year-old Metallic Cat daughter bred to Kit Kat Sugar, sold for $65,000 to Rhen Richard – A/C Racing and Roping, Roosevelt, Utah. A half-sister to Junie Wood (LTE $526,845), Metallic Tuff is the dam of 5-year-old Fingers In The Reins ($120,422), by Dont Stopp Believin.

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AQHA Welcomes John Pipkin as Director of Show Officials The American Quarter Horse Association proudly announces the appointment of John Pipkin as the AQHA Director of Show Officials. Pipkin is set to assume his new role on December 4, bringing his wealth of expertise and experience to the

of AQHA judges, stewards, and drug-testing programs. Working in close collaboration with the show department and judges committee members, he will spearhead initiatives aimed at delivering industry-leading service and educational opportunities, aligning with AQHA’s overarching mission. Moreover, Pipkin will play an integral role in enhancing AQHA’s standing as an industry world’s largest breed registry. In his capacity as Director of leader, all the while upholding the highest standards of Show Officials, John integrity within the realm of Pipkin will assume a pivotal show officials. role, overseeing the direction

Pozzi Tonozzi Sets New WPRA Regular Season Earnings Record

By Ann Bleiker

Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi officially set a new WPRA regular season earnings record during the first round of the inaugural Cinch Playoffs Governor’s Cup in Sioux Falls, S.D., on Thursday night, September 28. Pozzi Tonozzi aboard SR Industry Titan was the last barrel racer on the night, and she tied Emily Beisel’s time of 13.95 seconds ran just before she went. Bottom two on the

Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi Photo by Roseanna Sales

ground take top honors on night No. 1 and added $8,750 to both their 2023 earnings. “It is great to get the record on night No. 1 as now I can just let the rest of the weekend play out,” stated Pozzi Tonozzi just minutes after surpassing Tiany Schuster’s regular season record of $250,378 set in 2017. Pozzi Tonozzi will be heading to her 17th Wrangler NFR in the driver’s seat with her next focus being a third world title. With a chance to win another $35,000 in Sioux Falls only time will tell what her final regular season earnings will tally. She currently has $258,313. 112

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New Major Incentive for 2024 Summer Spectacular Open Derby by NCHA

FORT WORTH – In a thrilling development, Rapp Ranch and Dont Stopp Believin have unveiled a significant incentive for the upcoming 2024 NCHA Open Derby, set to be a highlight of the Great American Insurance Group Summer Cutting Spectacular. This exciting incentive package will total a generous $100,000, and it will be distributed across six NCHA Derby classes. To qualify for this remarkable opportunity, participants must hold a FULLY PAID 2024 breeding to Dont Stopp Believin! Dont Stopp Believin, a splendid stallion sired by Dual Rey and born of Dont Look Twice, will be available for breeding at Oswood

Stallion Station for the 2024 season. With an impressive lifetime earnings (LTE) of $461,561, this 2011 Sorrel Stallion is proudly owned by Phil and Mary Ann Rapp of Rapp Ranch. The legacy of Dont Stopp Believin extends to offspring earnings that have exceeded $2 million. His career highlights include the (2018) NCHA Open Reserve World Champion, NCHA Non Pro Top 10, AQHA Reserve World Champion, Congress Mercuria Open Champion, Congress Mercuria Non Pro Champion, and the (2017) NCHA World Finals Top 10. Dont Stopp Believin has also excelled at the Brazos Bash Classic, ranking in the Open and Non Pro Top 10 categories, among many other achievements. For a comprehensive list and information about his lineage, please visit rappranch. com/DontStoppBelievin.htm. Jay Winborn, the NCHA Executive Director, expressed his enthusiasm regarding this partnership, saying, “We are pleased to partner with Rapp Ranch and their stallion, Dont Stopp Believin, to offer additional incentives for the 2024 NCHA Summer Spectacular Open Derby. The NCHA is dedicated to promoting the cutting horse industry by fostering a positive and competitive environment that encourages sportsmanship, dedication, and the well-being of our equine athletes.” Stay tuned for more information about this exciting opportunity! To discover more about the National Cutting Horse Association, please visit nchacutting.com.

Legislation to enhance the review process of new and generic animal drugs (WASHINGTON, DC) October 12, 2023—In the latest government spending bill, Congress included and passed legislation that reauthorizes the Animal Drug User Fee Act (ADUFA) and the Animal Generic Drug User Fee Act (AGDUFA). The legislation is up for reauthorization every five years and is essential to ensuring a predictable roadmap to market for innovative animal drugs and generic animal drugs. The AVMA-endorsed law utilizes the collection of user fees to enhance the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine’s (FDA CVM) review of pioneer and generic animal drugs. During the reauthorization process, the AVMA provided verbal and written comments to the FDA CVM highlighting the potential of these programs to fill the need for veterinarians to have more safe and effective animal drugs at their disposal. “Building a robust pipeline of innovative new animal drugs and ensuring a strong generic industry is vital to veterinary medicine,” said Dr. Lori Teller, AVMA Immediate Past President. “As a result of the legislation, we will have access to more safe and effective animal drugs to treat the animals under our care. It was an honor to testify before Congress on this important issue and it highlights how critical it is for veterinarians to be part of the discussion during the legislative process. The AVMA is grateful to lawmakers for recognizing how these user fee programs support animal welfare by increasing the number of affordable, safe, and effective treatment options readily available to veterinarians.” Earlier this year, Dr. Lori Teller testified before the House and Energy Commerce Committee to emphasize the importance of reauthorizing the ADUFA and the AGDUFA to the veterinary profession. 114

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Dr. Tim Eastman named PRCA Vet of the Year

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Dr. Tim Eastman has been named the recipient of the 2023 PRCA Veterinarian of the Year award. “It was very flattering (to receive an honor like this),” said Eastman, the official Veterinarian of California Rodeo Salinas. “The rodeo is big deal in Salinas and a big part of the community. My committee, I have a half dozen people out there all day long for the four days

of the rodeo and then we have

the one day of bull riding. I have a great committee and I was really honored and very proud of our rodeo and to be recognized is very flattering.” Eastman has deep roots at California Rodeo Salinas. “I have been a director for 20 years at (California Rodeo Salinas) and I have not missed a minute of the rodeo in 25 years,” Eastman said. “I’m from Salinas. I grew up going to (California Rodeo Salinas) and my brother (Brent)

was the president of California Rodeo Salinas and my dad was in the 1980s and it was kind of my destiny when I got out of vet school.” Eastman’s day job is the chief of surgery at Steinbeck Country Equine Clinic in Salinas. He has worked 25 years at the clinic and he and his wife, Alexandra, who also is a vet, are co-owners of the clinic. “I grew up in the practice and then after vet school (at UC Davis), I did an internship in Colorado

(in Littleton) and then I did a three year surgical residency at Texas A&M and I got done and I came back to Salinas and I thought I was just going to work in the practice and both the senior associates ended up retiring and I ended up owning the practice with my wife.” Eastman acknowledged he began following this career path as a boy. “I was about 7 or 8 years old when I decided to become an equine vet,” Eastman said. “The rodeo in our family is like a holiday. It’s the same way for my four kids, they have never missed a day of the rodeo. I never really pictured myself coming back and owning the whole practice that quick or having the responsibility of the whole rodeo, but it kind of seemed like my destiny when I became a surgeon and moved back and got involved and the next thing I knew I was in charge of the whole thing. “Out there (at the rodeo) we are just in the shadows, but we have a great crew and if something goes down and we have people who can respond to anything. I think you just have to have a good crew of people and equipment ready to go. Over the years, we have seen about everything out there and we take pride in what we do and over the last 25 to 30 years veterinarians have done all they can to make things safer.”

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U.S. Dressage Team Tops Podium with Team Gold at

Santiago 2023 Pan American Games

Santiago, Chile – The U.S. Dressage Team rose to the occasion to secure team gold at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, finishing on a team total of 450.670 after strong performances today from all combinations. Brazil finished with a silver medal on 443.343, while Canada captured bronze with a 431.937. The three Grand Prix combinations will move on to contest the Grand Prix Freestyle on Wednesday, October 25, for individual medals.

“Firstly, I’m just proud. The team spirit is unbelievable, and it really has carried them through. Each one of them, in the end, rode better today,” said Chef d’Equipe George Williams. “There were a few bobbles in some of the tests, but the actual riding was better, so I was happy with that. They came back strong, and I really feel like the team comradery helped carry them to this result.” Christian Simonson (Ventura, Calif.) and Son of a Lady, a 2012 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by Christina Morgan and Cliff Simonson, led off in the order again as the only Small Tour combination on the team. The pair were poised and accurate, impressing the judges and earning a personal-best in the Intermediate I with a score of 74.971%. The pair showed their connection and quiet communication, earning a nine in their canter pirouette and showcasing the massive movement of the 2011 Danish Warmblood gelding owned by Christina Morgan and Cliff Simonson. “He and I just have really good communication together. Even on a day when he’s a little tired or maybe not want to give 110 percent, he either will let me dig deep or he’ll dig in and fight for me. It’s the epitome of the best feeling riding – just that feeling knowing they’ll fight for you in the ring,” said Simonson. “The team atmosphere has just been incredible. We have so much synergy and it’s an amazing group of riders to be with.” The first combination for the United States in the Large Tour rotation saw Anna Marek (Dunnellon, Fla.) and Fire Fly open with the Grand Prix Special for the team. Marek and Fire Fly, a 2010 Hanoverian gelding owned by Janet Smile, worked through an early bobble in their test in the half pass, to recover with a beautiful second half to gain improved marks from the judges, earning a 73.489%. Marek mentioned that the strength of their growing relationship allowed her to guide them both back to focus and still produce a very strong score for the team. “I’m thrilled with our test and how he went. I was really proud that when we made a big bobble, we both recovered from it like it was nothing. As I was half-passing across and I kind of got down 122

and then reminded myself that we have an entire test to go and just took a deep breath and said, ‘Alright buddy, let’s go,’” said Marek. “He’s really a sensitive horse and that’s why I love him. We’ve built a lot of trust together and trying to press when I can and back off that we come here and we’re not nervous and I know he’s going to be there for me, and I can support him when he’s scared he trusts me when I tell him we can do it.” A few small miscommunications kept Harrison and Katholt’s Bossco from scoring to their potential, but the pair recovered well

to earn a 71.957%, with Harrison showing their determination and fighting for every mark throughout the test to keep their score competitive. Katholt’s Bossco is a special horse for Harrison, having brought him up herself through the levels from a young horse all the way to Grand Prix. “He felt so on today and great. The first part of the trot tour felt like it was some of the best work we’ve ever had. We had a few little miscommunications which was unfortunate, but overall, the feeling was so good,” commented Harrison. “He really grew into the atmosphere today and it’s amazing to be able to say that he was my Young Rider horse. We really didn’t have any intentions on making him a Grand Prix horse and along the way we realized he’s a much better Grand Prix horse and I feel so lucky that I have a horse who let me teach him the ropes and I learned from him and together we fulfilled a dream by making a U.S. team.”

As the final combination in for Team USA with medals on the line, Tubman and First Apple, a 2010 KWPN stallion owned by Summit Farms, produced another spectacular test, earning a 76.872% to help push the team to the top of the podium. The pair, who are the most seasoned partnership in the group, showed their experience, helping to guide the team to a consecutive team-podium at the Pan American Games. “We’re just so fortunate to have each other as a team. This is a very young team to represent the U.S. and we really brought it,” said Tubman. “Apple was fantastic today and he really gave me everything in there. It’s another personal best for us and I’m just so proud of the way he’s continued to rise to the occasion for me.” Dressage competition will continue Wednesday, October 25, with the freestyles to determine individual medals.

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Carlee McCutcheon and Chacco Star Win 2023 Dover Saddlery/USEF Hunter Seat Medal Final Title

announced her as the winner.” Noah Nelson moved up from sixth place to second on the strength of a smooth round with Harrisburg, Pa. – The Dover Quite Cassini, Ashland Farms’ Saddlery/USEF Hunter Seat 2004 Holsteiner gelding. Nelson Medal Final was the premier class (Santa Barbara, Calif.) only on Sunday at the Pennsylvania began competing in equitation National Horse Show. A total of classes since March and has 208 junior competitors competed in risen to the top rankings in the the first round over Alan Lohman’s highly competitive classes. As course in front of judges Jack the first competitor to perform Towell and Timmy Kees. The top the final testing, Nelson made 25 athletes returned for the second an impression on the judges to round over a new course, with the move up the rankings. top six returning for final testing. “I was a little nervous Carlee McCutcheon clinched the walking into the ring going first. win and the Adrian Van Sinderen It’s my first time competing Trophy with a fabulous round on in the Medal Final, but I was Chacco Star. very confident on Cassini,” The final testing asked riders said Nelson. “He competed to demonstrate holding a counter here and was second in 2019 canter through turns, a trot fence, with Jordan Allen, and I owe and a hand gallop to the final fence everything to him. I really liked followed by a halt. McCutcheon the test. It was very well put (Aubrey, Texas) answered all of together and I’m very grateful the questions while riding Chacco for everything.” Star, Kennedy McCaulley’s 2008 Kate Hagerty rose from Oldenburg gelding, to finish atop fifth place to third with a solid the standings. The pair’s day final testing on Magic Moment. started early this morning with Despite only riding Magic a respectable first round and it Moment since August, Hagerty continued to improve from there. (Terrebonne, Ore.) and The “I was just looking to come Hagerty Family’s 2011 KWPN back in a good spot for the second gelding looked like a seasoned round, and I was very pleased combination. They delivered with my second round,” said an impressive second round McCutcheon. “We took a chance to reach the final testing and, with an inside turn, and I know I Carlee McCutcheon and Chacco Star ultimately, third place. can trust in him. The harder the courses, (Avery Wallace/US Equestrian) “He is new to the equitation, and the better he is. It was nerve wracking because I wasn’t sure if I was going to make the test, but I did and I my first round was good, but I didn’t come back with a lot of expectations,” said Hagerty. “I think that let me go in and kind of go thought, ‘Just go for it.’” McCutcheon and Chacco Star have been partners for two years for it and be as risky as I could. He was so good and did everything I asked, so I’m really happy with how he was today.” and have secured numerous top results in equitation classes all Judge Towell had high praise for Medal Final competitors as season long. McCutcheon gives much of the credit to her capable well as their mounts. mount. “These riders are unbelievable,” said Towell. “But also, the “When we practice at home, we’re practicing for me. He’s very quality of these horses. These horses are amazing animals— seasoned in the equitation ring, and I think that definitely gives me amazing. They have got the stride, the scope, and to do what an advantage,” said McCutcheon. “I’m able to go in the ring very they do. It just blows me away sitting there watching them. Not confident knowing that my horse is very good at his job.” that these riders don’t ride great, but you’re only as good as your McCutcheon trains with Max Amaya and TJ O’Mara, and her horse.” win was meaningful to O’Mara, a past Medal Final champion in Kees had similar thoughts as his fellow judge, pointing to the 2016. McCutcheon was one of O’Mara’s first equitation students instruction, horses, and skills of the junior athletes to make for a after becoming a professional, and her success showed the results day of impressive performances. He also noted that the format of of everyone’s time and effort. the Medal Final punctuated the competition to determine the final “I helped her here at the Medal Final in 2021, and each year she’s gotten better and better with it,” said O’Mara. “I think to really results. “Everybody can have a wonderful first round, but the test in the see the hard work that me and Max have put in with her pay off end is what separates them,” said Kees. “And that’s exactly how it today and to see her partnership with Chacco really develop and flourish after each round really brought tears to my eyes when they was done, and it worked out great.” by Kathleen Landwehr, US Equestrian Communications

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2023 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales Over the Top Call Her Hilda 17, Day One high-seller at $110,000

Black Magic Woman, 2023 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales high seller at $180,000

The two-day 2023 Western Bloodstock NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales concluded on Saturday, October 21st with record sales. Twelve horses sold for $100,000 or more with 16 horses bringing $95,000 or more. Saturday’s Select Yearling Sale Session II posted an average of $34,897, while Friday’s Performance Horse and 2-Year Old Session claimed an all-time high average of $51,153. The over-all average for all sessions was $32,855. Black Magic Woman, consigned by Southern Ranches (Solo Select Horses, Agent), was the sale’s over-all high-seller. Purchased for $180,000 by Chance David, Joaquin, Tex., the 2022 black Shining Spark daughter is out of Carrera Cat, by Metallic Cat, the dam of Holly Cat Carrera LTE $56,835, a multiple champion in RCHA Open competition, and a full sister to The Countess LTE $79,000, a NCHA Super Stakes Open finalist. Southern Ranches was also the consigner of Shiny Train, a red roan Metallic Cat yearling filly who brought $97,000 from Gina Roidopoulos, Dallas, Tex. The House Is Rockn, a 2022 red roan colt by Stevie Rey Von commanded $140,000, the sale’s second-highest price. Consigned by Teton Ridge, The House Is Rockn sold to Eduardo Elizondo, Laredo, Tex., who also purchased the sale’s high-selling broodmare, Call Her Hilda 17, for $110,000 on Friday. The House Is Rockn is out of Soula Jule Forever LTE $34,751, a multiple Open NRCHA and RCHA champion and the dam of 14 money earners, including NRCHA Futurity Open Reserve champions Jule Smart Rey and Bet Hes Black. High Cats Shine at $125,000 was Saturday’s thirdhighest seller. Consigned by Wagonhound Land & Livestock LLC and purchased by William McElligott, Lafayette, La, the sorrel yearling filly by WR This Cats Smart is a full sister, out of Shining Madonna, to 4-year-old Cabanna Boy LTE $126,370, NRCHA Western Open Derby and NSHA RCH Open Futurity champion.

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2023 Western National Championship Show Celebrates National Champions

Scottsdale, Arizona - The stage was set for an electrifying display of talent as Paint Horses took center stage at the 2023 Western National Championship Show, hosted by APHA. The event, held from September 21 to 24, 2023, at WestWorld in Scottsdale, Arizona, witnessed the crowning of national champions and showcased a myriad of thrilling events. APHA extends its

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warmest congratulations to the exceptional all-around award winners who left an indelible mark on this premier show.

To relive the exciting moments, we invite you to explore the captivating photo gallery on APHA’s Facebook page. For complete results and detailed information, please visit the Full Results or head to Horse Show Tracker.

Meet the Outstanding 2023 Western National All-Around Award Recipients: All-Around Open Horse

VS Total Heartthrob, owned by Candice Monsen of Bluffdale, Utah All-Around Masters Amateur Jo Lynn Kirkman of Las Vegas, Nevada, & Nighttime Sensation

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All-Around Amateur Candice Monsen of Bluffdale, Utah & VS Total Heartthrob All-Around Novice Amateur Hayley Forsburg of Battle Ground, Washington, & Factor In The Blues All-Around Amateur Walk-Trot Dana Brown of Happy Valley, Oregon, & Sirtain Kinda Dream All-Around Youth 13 & Under and All-Around Novice Youth Jocelyn Krieg of Camano Island, Washington, & Only One I Want All-Around Youth 14-18 Teaira Tracksell of Borden, Saskatchewan, Canada, & Spotless Gentleman All-Around Youth Walk-Trot 11-18 Alana Nix of Queen Creek, Arizona, & Playin With Eyeliner All-Around Youth Walk-Trot 5-10 Sophia Youderian of Stanford, Montana, & JZA Jewelontherange All-Around Open Ranch Smokin Jeans, owned by Harry Stoddart III of Jordan Valley, Oregon All-Around Amateur Ranch Cindy Cook of La Mesa, New Mexico, & Spooks Real Gun All-Around Novice Amateur Ranch Teresa Hanson of Scottsdale, Arizona, & Peptoes Prescription The event’s captivating moments were beautifully captured by Ruehle Photographix.

The 2023 Western National Championship Show proved to be a celebration of exceptional talent and commitment to the equestrian world. The winners and participants demonstrated their unwavering dedication to the sport of Paint Horses, and their achievements are a testament to their remarkable skills and passion.

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IRHA Ranch Horse Futurity Gains Momentum in Tulsa, Marking Its Second Year Tulsa, Oklahoma - The IRHA Ranch Horse Futurity, a collaborative effort between the International Ranch Horse Association and the American Paint Horse Association, made its presence known at the 100X Reining

Classic on August 26, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In its second year, this exciting event delivered impressive competition in both Open and Non-Pro ranch riding divisions, distributing a total of over $97,000 in prize money.

The event received generous support from APHA corporate partner Markel, as well as SC Equine Online Sales, Continental Saddlery, Classic Leather Designs, EnviroEquine and Pet, and Four Star Quarter Horses.

The 2023 edition of the IRHA Ranch Horse Futurity expanded its offerings by introducing a Non-Pro futurity alongside its established Open division. This move elevated the competition, leading to thrilling showdowns, including a breathtaking runoff for championship honors in the Open category. Ultimately, the dynamic duo of Logan Pluhar and the striking 2020 buckskin overo stallion, Nic The Whiz, secured victory in the Open Ranch Horse Futurity, earning a remarkable $7,059. Notably, their exceptional performance also garnered a prestigious $9,000 IRHA stallion incentive bonus. As a fun aside, Nic The Whiz, who triumphed in this

year’s event, had previously achieved the title of reserve champion in the 3-Year-Old Reining Challenge Level 2 & 3 at the 2023 APHA World Championship Show. Fans of this talented pair can delve deeper into their journey in the Fall 2023 Paint Horse Journal article titled “Log Work,” which features trainer Bud Lyon. APHA is thrilled to extend its heartfelt congratulations to the outstanding champions of the 2023 IRHA Ranch Horse Futurity: The IRHA Ranch Horse Futurity continues to captivate audiences and uphold a tradition of excellence in ranch riding events. It serves as a testament to the dedication and skill of participants within the equestrian community.

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DUAL SMART REY The $13 million sire passes

Dual Smart Rey, a 2002 sorrel stallion owned by Strawn Valley Ranch of Fort Worth, died September 27, 2023, according to a social media post by his connections.

Dual Smart Rey’s QData foal earnings event breakdown is: Cutting: $11,804,144.46 Reined cow horse: $1,339,736.83 Other: $78,118.98 Ranch: $35,075.17 Barrel: $18,390.28 Pole bending: $266.00 Reining: $178.74 The 2006 AQHA junior cutting world champion was bred by Wiens Ranch Co. Inc. of Sedalia, Colorado, sired by Dual Rey and out of The Smart Look by Smart Little Lena. He also won the 2006 National Cutting Horse Association Open Super Stakes. His lifetime earnings, according to QData, are $330,436. Dual Smart Rey has sired 1,141 AQHA-registered foals, and his progeny earnings stand at more than $13 million. He has 523 money earners, and their average earnings are $25,372. He has sired the winners of four AQHA world championships and four reserve world championships.

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