Sportsmanship Award
Whitney and Greg Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award
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stablished in 2000, this award is presented to a National Youth Cutting Horse Association member who exemplifies the qualities of sportsmanship, horsemanship and respect for fellow competitors. The annual award was established in honor of NYCHA member Whitney Welch, daughter of Pax and Greg Welch. The award is presented at the NYCHA Convention during the Summer Cutting Spectacular. Whitney and three of her friends were killed on December 19, 1998, the result of an encounter with a drunk driver. It was a devastating loss to all who knew and loved her. Whitney exemplified the true meaning of sportsmanship; she was a quiet girl, always friendly, courteous and respectful to
others. Whitney was gracious in winning as well as losing. Whitney’s father, former National Cutting Horse Association President Greg Welch, passed away on July 4, 2004 after a brief illness. Greg was a much loved supporter of young cutters and served as a positive force in the lives of many youth members. Prior to his death, he presented the Whitney Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award during the NYCHA Awards Banquet each summer. After his passing, Greg’s name was added to the sportsmanship award in honor of his dedication to children. NCHA Affiliates may nominate as many youth as deemed fit per year for the award by submitting a nomination form to the award committee.
Nominations are submitted by June 1, 2017 and mailed to: Whitney and Greg Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award Committee Route 2, Box 298 • Nocona, TX 76255 Questions regarding the award can be directed to Patti Willoughby, Chairperson. Details at www.nychaonline.com, click on Awards.
Whitney and Greg set an example. Let’s keep it alive in their name!
We appreciate the support of the Walton Family Foundation in recognizing these outstanding NYCHA members.
Whitney and Greg Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award recipients 2016 – Kolby Don Moore, Williston, Florida 2015 – Samray Hooper, Andrews, Texas 2014 – Lane Wood, Stephenville, Texas 2013 – Amanda Morris, Burleson, Texas 2012 – Cheyenne Johnson, Pine Level, Alabama 2011 – Marli Claytor, Cushing, Oklahoma 2010 – Justin Richardson, Reading, Kansas 2009 – Jessica Bagley, Taylors, South Carolina 2008 – Cooper Cogdell, Tulia, Texas 2007 – Elizabeth Brumbaugh, Weatherford, Texas 2006 – Lindsey Weander, Valentine, Nebraska 2005 – Samantha Biller, Tulare, California 2004 – Denver Jo Williamson, Archer City, Texas 2003 – Mica Motes, Weatherford, Texas 2002 – Keri Garrison, Ridgeland, Mississippi 2001 – Ty Chambers, Wichita Falls, Texas 2000 – Mandy Williams, Grantsville, Utah The 2017 recipient will be named during the NYCHA Awards Banquet on Saturday, July 29, 2017 158
C U T T I NG HOR SE CH AT T ER • J UN E 2017
Whitney Welch
Greg Welch
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