InStride December 2025

DECEMBER 2025

DECEMBER 2025

COVER STORY FIRST THINGZ FIRST 10-15

By Corrine S. Borton

Photos by Kirstie Marie, Shane Rux & Courtney Ament FEATURES UNDERSTANDING EVH-1 18-21

By Corrine S. Borton

EVENTS AQHA WORLD SHOW: OVER 4.75 MILLION AWARDED IN PURSES & PRIZES AT 2025 EVENT 24-27

By Corrine S. Borton Photos by Shane Rux & Courtney Ament SHOW STOPPERS QUARTER HORSE CONGRESS : 32-33 Photos by Shane Rux & Courtney Ament APPALOOSA WORLD SHOW : 34 Photos by Ruehl Photographix PROFILES

AMATEURS 36-37 Beth Lepping YOUTH 40-41 Carson Fry REGULAR COLUMNS

“INSIDE” THE LAW 35

By Katherine Jarve “INSIDE” HEALTH 45

By Emily Dooley

THE BUZZ 43 ASSOCIATION NEWS 47 Download the Sweet Shop App by Texting SWEET SHOP to 33733 4 | INSTRIDE EDITION | DECEMBER 2025

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ADVERTISING SALES Courtney B. Ament Deanna Green Willis WEBSITE ADVERTISING Courtney B. Ament TECHNICAL ANALYST Brent Adam Borton CIRCULATION Lenora B. Sheppard

ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Courtsey Designs Denise Hawkins Designs By Raigen Emajes Hampel Designs Jakovich Marketing Katz Graphics Superlative Equine Valor Designs

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Courtney Borton Ament Corrine S. Borton COLUMNISTS Katherine Jarve Emily Dooley

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Courtney Borton Ament AQHA Jeff Kirkbride Kirstie Marie Cody Parmenter Ruehl Photographix Shane Rux

COPY & RESEARCH Lenora B. Sheppard

Equi+Focus and Equi+Calm Pellets and Paste • Prices Vary • https://shopehi.com/collections/equine-performance-pastes

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Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Kirstie Marie, Shane Rux & Courtney Borton Ament About a year later Smith created a new post to the Capall Creek Facebook page that included that original video, plus a video of Moses changing leads on Denver at a show on Ocala, and a video of the youngster in the pasture.

“I remember this clear as day,” Van Slyke said. “It was late one evening in April and my husband was almost asleep on the couch. I was doomscrolling and saw the post. I messaged Amy within 10 minutes and she said that they were offering First Thingz First for sale. Even though I had just purchased VS Code Red a year and a half prior, Jonathan and I decided we would move forward and do a vet check.”

By the time Denver left Ocala Van Slyke was his new owner but he returned to Texas with Moses.

“Obviously, Aaron’s show record speaks for itself but I also had received raving reviews about Aaron’s horsemanship and his training program overall,” Van Slyke said. “He and Amy had devised what seemed to be really smart s

With over 59,000 Facebook followers and 29,000 fans on Instagram, First Thingz First may be one of the most followed stallions in the industry right now.

But to his owner, social media personality Katie Van Slyke the 2021 stallion sired by RL Best Of Sudden out of VS The First Lady, is a total sweetheart with unlimited potential.

Van Slyke who lives with her husband, Jonathan in Nolensville, Tennessee, loves to tell the story about how she decided she had to have the red roan stallion affectionately known as Denver.

The first time she ever laid eyes on him was when his breeder and then owner Amy Smith, of Capall Creek Farm in Hampstead, North Carolina, posted a video of Aaron Moses riding him as a green 2-year old.

“Immediately I saw a super talented horse with a deep hock, amazing cadence, a flat front end and overall striking appearance,” she explained. “He really just took my breath away and I never forgot him.”

plan for Denver and my gut told me to stick with it.”

Moses was a fan right from the start.

“He was incredibly smart,” he said.

“He was doing things with two rides that it takes most horses 30 days to learn.”

There were several times over the course of the next few months that Moses and Van Slyke thought Denver would make his show debut. But ultimately they decided together to wait for the Pleasure Versatility Challenge, open to 3-year-olds at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) World Championship Show.

“As the year went on we decided it was in his best interest to allow him the max amount of time to mature and hone those skills needed for the Pleasure Versatility Challenge,” Van Slyke said. “That’s what is so great about working with a trainer that has your horse’s best interest at the forefront.”

And what a debut it turned out to be.

First Thingz First claimed a Reserve Championship title and the silver trophy as well as the inaugural AQHA Fan Favorite horse award, with 13,000 votes.

Fans both in person and watching via the livestream voted for their favorite horses in an online poll.

“It was nice because our focus was almost completely that he would be an allaround horse last year so I was able to really focus on the elements of the versatility,” Moses said. “He prepared really well.

Most of the pattern was really good but we had a couple unexpected mistakes that cost us a lot. He showed really good in then pleasure though which gave us our first real glimpse that he may be stronger in that event than we had anticipated.”

Denver’s show career was off to a strong start. His next appearance was at the Back To Berrien Futurity in Michigan where he and Moses won the DAC $2,500 Novice Horse Open Western Pleasure as well as the Green Western Pleasure.

At the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) World Championship Show in August, Denver and Moses won the Breeders Championship Futurity (BCF)

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$10,000 Maturity Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure and were Reserve Champions in the BCF Open Performance Halter Stallions.

Then in October at the All American Quarter Horse Congress First Thingz First claimed three Championship titles and a Reserve.

Moses rode him to a win in the

$10,000 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure Maturity and the Southern Belle Breeders portion.

“He’s a really honest pleasure horse,” Moses said. “Even though he really enjoys the other events he’s always given his all when he goes in the pen and really lets me show him to his best advantage.”

ttt Pictured above (right) Katie Van Slyke with First Thingz First (Denver). Inset Denver is pictured (top to bottom) at the 2024 AQHA World Show; at the 2025 NSBA World Show; with Katie at the 2025 Congress; and Katie with Denver after he and Moses won the $10,000 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure Maturity at the 2025 Congress.

reer, by making the finals in the Level 1 Open Western Riding at the AQHA World Show. As successful a Western Pleasure contender as he is, Van Slyke is equally excited about his career in Western Riding and Trail.

“He’s showing real promise in Western Riding but we will wait to decide whether it or Trail will be his best event,” she said. “Those are the two classes on which we will focus the next two years.”

She would also like to show Denver herself in Non-Pro Western Pleas-

s

Texas trainer Jason Smith showed Denver to a win in the Performance Halter Stallions (as well as the NSBA portion of that class) at the Congress.

Katie herself showed Denver to a Championship title in the Amateur Performance Halter Stallions Limited Division and a Reserve overall.

“It was nerve wracking since it was a last minute decision but I was very proud and excited to get to show my boy,” Van Slyke said.

In November, Denver began what will be the next phase of his show ca-

ure classes and possibly even in Horsemanship one day.

But for the immediate future Denver will return to Highpoint Performance Horses, in Pilot Point, Texas, where he will stand his second season at stud, under the management of Christi Christenson.

And Van Slyke is anxiously awaiting the arrival of his first foal crop.

Van Slyke has one coming out of Kat Tails R Blazing, a multiple Congress Champion; NSBA World Champion and NSBA World Champion producer. She also has foals coming out of two younger mares that suffered career ending injuries - Hot Pistol Annie and Shes Got Me Flatlining.

“I’m excited to see what his foals look like breeding to both Hunt Seat and western mares,” she said.

The 2026 foaling season will be busy for Van Slyke who also has several other foals due by her other stallion VS Code Red out of Waffle House, Only Blue Couture and LA India Elegant (TB).

And Van Slyke believes so deeply about her stallions’ bloodline that she also purchased First Thingz First’s dam, World and Congress Champion VS The First Lady, from Capall Creek Farm. The 2015 red roan mare is the daughter of VS Code Red out of Cool Lookin Lady.

Van Slyke has foals out of her due in 2026 by RL Best Of Sudden and Machine Made. She is also expecting a foal by Hay Good Lookn out of Gone Commando.

“I love looking at each mare or each stallion individually and trying to find their best pairing,” she said. “Obviously, foaling can be stressful but it’s also so rewarding and fun. Now I’m getting to the point where I can reap the benefits of my foals the show pen.”

That has been a long journey.

Katie’s parents, Matt and Terri Van

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Slyke were both barrel racers and met at a horse show so horses have always been in Katie’s life. She grew up showing POAs until she was 13 years old. Her first AQHA show was with a senior gelding by the name of Zip Rebel N Roll, sired by Zipped N Barred. Together they earned numerous AQHA points and circuit championships. Over the next few years she showed several all-around contenders like Global Shock, Ask Me For Details, Zippin On Top, Hot Lady Born Lopin and Hot N Krymsun.

“I’m a very competitive person and it’s been my passion for as long as I can remember,” she said. “I yearn for a partnership with a horse that comes with showing and competing together.”

In 2016 Katie started dating Jonathan Mabry. The two had grown up together and known of each other but really connected when Jonathan’s parents moved next door to Katie. The two shared many interests, including hunting, fishing and farm life. Katie’s social media journey began unexpectedly when a friend took a photograph of her on her farm. She posted this "ordinary moment" picture on Instagram, and it was widely reposted by several "country girl" pages.

Overnight, she gained a significant number of followers, growing from a small base of connections in the horse world to 50,000 followers within four and a half months.

In 2020 Katie and Jonathan were married and Katie now helps run her parents’ Running Springs Quarter Horse & Cattle Company, home to Simmental cattle, mini donkeys, mini cows, goats, pigs, and, of course, Quarter Horses.

Katie gained initial traction on social media by documenting her hunting season and has since grown her brand through sponsorships, a podcast ("Katching Up with Katie"), and collaborations on products like horse treats.

Today she has a significant, global reach, with a combined following of over 12 million across Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube.

“I love the combo of being able to educate those about animals while also bringing joy to those who may have never experienced farm life,” she explained.

But it’s not always easy.

“While a lot of good comes with it, a lot of outside opinions come too. Navigating how to deal with hateful opinions from so many people over the course of eight years

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ttt Pictured on this page (top and bottom right) is VS The First Lady and her 2025 bay filly by Machine Made; and Ethel, a recipient mare that carried Ruby, the 2025 foal

by VS Code Red out of KM Brandy Girl. On the opposite page (clockwise from top) Katie Van Slyke is pictured with Jonathan Mabry at their 2020 wedding; a view of Running Springs Quarter Horse & Cattle Company in Nolensville, Tennessee; the initial picture Katie posted on social media that launched her career and Katie with her family.

has been difficult,” she admitted.

Between her involvement with her show horses, maintaining her social media presence and building her farm, time is always at a premium for Katie.

“With the breeding business,

we are having some major growing pains,” she said. “It’s a good problem to have but sharing Running Springs Farm as a Quarter Horse AND cattle farm can be quite difficult. Growing the horse side of the business is currently a

little messy with building a new barn and creating more pasture space.”

And she is still learning about all it takes to be a successful stallion owner.

“There’s a lot more to it than just making babies,” she revealed. “It’s a combination of caring for an animal, marketing, strategy and doing your best to keep ethics and animal welfare at the forefront.”

But education is something Katie values most.

“I know the value of learning from multiple people and keeping your brain open because you can learn something from everybody,” she said. “All too often, people think they know everything ,which in turn, gets them stuck at the same level forever. Always be open to improvement and you’ll alway be improving.”

First Thingz First is 16 hands tall and is six panel negative (HYPP (N/N); PSSM N/N; HERDA N/N; GBED N/N; MYHM N/N; MH N/N) His 2026 breeding fee is $2,250. Semen is available in the US, Canada, Europe and Australia (Fresh semen available Feb. 1 to March 13, and frozen semen only after March 13). He is enrolled in the NSBA SIF and BCF; Super Sires; Premier Sires, among others.

To obtain a breeding contract or for more information contact Breeding Manager: Christi Christenson at Highpoint Performance Horses, christi.highpointperformance@gmail.com or (903) 816-1428.

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If a horse is showing signs of EHV-1, its owner should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible to discuss diagnosis, treatment and quarantine.

In early November, an outbreak of a particularly aggressive strain of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) was linked to the World Championship Barrel Racing Finals held in the Waco, Texas area .

EHV-1 primarily causes upper respiratory disease and abortions/stillbirths in horses. In some cases, it causes a neurological disease called equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM) that can be fatal.

Veterinarians confirmed neurological cases (known as equine herpes myeloencephalopathy, or EHM), raising serious concern. The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) issued a statewide alert recommending that all horses that were at or exposed to the Waco event be isolated for at least 14 days, monitored twice daily for fever, and handled under heightened biosecurity.

The Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) on Nov. 20 began monitoring the outbreak.

“The spread in the current outbreak was limited by rapid communications in the industry to owners and veterinarians by the EDCC,” said Dr. Nathaniel A. White II, EDCC director.

As of late November 60 cases of EHV-1 have been confirmed in horses from Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Washington, with 47 showing neurologic signs, according to the EDCC, which posts real-time alerts for a range of equine infectious diseases.

Because EHV-1 can spread rapidly via nose-to-nose contact, coughing, shared equipment, and even on humans’ clothes and boots, authorities urged strict cleaning of tack, trailers, and shared gear, and emphasized the need for early veterinary evaluation of any sick horses.

Dr. Jared Janke, a clinical associate professor of equine internal medicine at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences said that EHV-1 spreads between horses through direct contact, airborne transmission in distances less than 30 feet, and indirect transmission by people and equipment.

“Quarantining and reducing exposure is vital because the 20 | INSTRIDE EDITION | DECEMBER 2025

virus spreads easily and can transmit from horse to horse before any clinical signs appear,” he explained. “Preventing the movement of exposed horses helps cut off main transmission routes.”

It’s also especially important to avoid sharing any grooming equipment, water and feed sources, or other tools between infected and healthy horses, as the virus can survive in the environment for several weeks.

Likewise, owners and horse handlers should change their clothes and thoroughly wash their hands and arms after caring for infected horses.

EVH-1 causes three main categories of symptoms – respiratory, reproductive, and neurologic. The neurologic form, which causes a condition known as Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), is the most dangerous and transmissible.

If a horse becomes infected with EHV-1, clinical signs typically appear within five to 10 days, but that period may be pro-

longed in cases of EHM. The American Horse Council recommends that horse owners take their horse’s temperature daily, since fever is typically the first symptom.

Clinical signs of EHV may not be specific, and some horses may not show any signs of illness. In clinically affected horses, look for: • Fever • Difficulty urinating • Nasal discharge and cough • Depression • Head tilt • Loss of tail tone • Stumbling or weakness in the hind limbs that progresses to all limbs • Down and unable to rise • Abortion in pregnant mares EHV-1 and EHV-4 are spread via nose-to-nose contact; contaminated equipment (water and feed buckets, tack and grooming supplies, and shoes); and respiratory secretions within stalls and stables. Aborted fetuses and afterbirth can also contain these viruses.

If a horse is showing signs of EHV1, its owner should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible to discuss diagnosis, treatment and quarantine.

“Any signs of fever along with hindlimb loss of coordination, urine dribbling, or weak tail tone should prompt an owner to isolate the horse, stop the movement of any animals in contact, and reach out to their veterinarian immediately,” Janke said. “Your veterinarian will help ensure that the proper diagnostic tests are performed and will notify their state’s animal health official of the ongoing situation.”

The virus can be diagnosed with a nasal swab and blood test that is sent to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory. Results are typically available in as little as one to two days.

Because the virus has high outbreak potential, the veterinarian will advise quarantining sick horses until diagnostic results are available.

“Owners must recognize that EHM is a reportable disease because of its highly contagious nature and the serious effects outbreaks can have on the horse industry,” Janke said.

“Therefore, owners need to follow their veterinarian’s advice and the guidance of state animal health officials.”

You can help prevent the spread of EHV-1 by: • Vaccinating your horses. Vaccines are available to prevent the forms of EHV that cause respiratory illness and abortion. These vaccines reduce the severity of symptoms and viral shedding. They also reduce the risk of abortions.

These vaccines are strongly recommended, especially in breeding operations. None of the vaccines are effective against the neurologic form of the disease (EHM).

• Isolating new or returning horses. Isolate new horses and horses returning to the farm after an event for at least 21

days. Monitor them for signs of disease. Keep pregnant mares with foals at their side in small groups away from new or returning horses.

• Practice good hygiene and biosecurity. Regularly clean and disinfect all water/feed buckets, mucking equipment, tack, and any other equipment. Don’t share or borrow tack or equipment at shows, events or boarding facilities.

Many equine events have been cancelled and many more are instituting heightened precautions against EVH-1. An quine Production, show managers for the Florida Gold and Gulf Coast circuits at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida, recently posted the following announcement: The World Equestrian Center in Ocala has provided updated health requirements for all horses entering the property.

All trailers must enter off of 80th Avenue by the General Store or from Highway 40. Each trailer will be inspected upon arrival by WEC staff prior to entering the property.

All horses arriving from within Florida or from out of state must now have a 14-day Health Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 14 days prior to arrival; a negative Coggins within 1 year; vaccine record of Flu/Rhin within the span of 6 months; Trainer/Owner Health Declaration signed by an owner/trainer confirming that the horse has not experienced a fever exceeding 101.5 degrees or any disease in the last 72 hours leading up to its arrival. Additionally, the horse must not have been exposed to or treated for an unexplained fever in the past 28 days and should have tested negative for any disease at least 30 days prior to arrival. If the horse has tested positive within the last six months for any infectious diseases, this information should also be disclosed.

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Over $4.75 M in purse, prizes awarded at 2025 event Text Corrine S. Borton with AQHA Photos Shane Rux & Courtney Borton Ament From first-time exhibitors who got their very first gold globes to two long-time professionals who won their first AQHA World Championships, the 2025 AQHA and Select World Championship Shows were a huge success.

The show reported more than 8,500 entries competing for 104 AQHA World Championships, 44 Select World Cham-

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pionships, 99 Level 2 Championships and 26 AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions titles at this year's event, Oct. 30 - Nov. 19 at the OKC Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City.

Payout and prizes at the show totaled more than $4.75 million, and more than $1 million of that was paid out in the Open, Amateur and Select Roping classes.

New this year at

the AQHA World Championship Show, AQHA presented divisional high-point awards in the Open, Amateur and Select divisions in four categories: working western, roping/speed, English and western. Each first-place high-point winner received $4,000, a custom Montana Silversmiths belt buckle, neck ribbon and a custom horse cooler. Each second-place winner earned $3,000 and a custom horse cooler, while third place received $2,000 and a custom horse cooler.

Each year at the World Show, the most prestigious title is AQHA Superhorse, given to the open-division horse that earns the most points and was shown in a minimum of three Level 3 open classes in at least three categories.

s

ttt On the opposite page (top left) Isabella D'Onofrio and Whata Moonlite Ride winning the L3 Amateur Equitation and below that, exhibitors in the 3-Year-Old Pleasure Versatility Challenge changing gears between events. At right (top to bottom): the show’s prestigious globes and neck ribbons; L3 Junior Hunter Under Saddle Champions Sara Simons and Jus Be Good; Angie Cannizzaro and Lookn Like Trouble, winners of the L3 2-Year-Old Western Pleasure; Aaron Moses and Air Ryde winning the L3 Senior Western Pleasure and Charlie Cole at his retirement party.

On this page (top) Sumac Gunnabeflashy, AQHA World Show Superhorse for the second straight year, winning the Senior Ranch Riding with Bud Lyon.

For the second year in a row, the Superhorse title was captured by Sumac Gunnabeflashy, owned by Leslie Vagneur Lange, an AQHA Professional Horsewoman from Greeley, Colorado, and shown by AQHA Professional Horseman Bud Lyon of Whitesboro, Texas. “Romeo’s” top placings included World Championship wins in Working Western Rail and Senior Ranch Riding, where he logged a record score of 257.

Sumac Gunnabeflashy is a 2017 chestnut gelding by Gunnatrashya and out of Chics Graceful Whiz by Whiz N Tag Chex.

Other highly sought-after awards are the All-Around Amateur and Select All-Around Amateur.

This year’s All-Around Amateur is Paige Rogers of Dallas, showing Ima Savvy Investment, a 2018 red roan gelding

by Hot Sleek N Savvy and out of Dixie Assets by Iota Invest.

Paige received $10,000, a neck ribbon, a rose bouquet and a Lisa Perry bronze.

This year’s Select All-Around Amateur is Dana Avila of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Always Do, an AQHA Ranching Heritage-bred 2018 gray gelding by Cat Man Do and out of Greyt Little Steps by Greyt Whiz. Avila received a neck ribbon, rose bouquet, $10,000 and a Lisa Perry bronze.

3-Year-Old Pleasure Versatility Challenge The 2025 AQHA Pleasure Versatility Challenge World Champion was The Goldenn Girl, a 2022 bay mare by Nothin But Nett out of A Good Sweet Peach. Bred by Bret and Candy Parrish, The Goldenn Girl was ridden by Jesse W. Jones for owner Eric Mendrysa, with Reserve Champion Ten Kinda Southern (Shannon Curl-Holbin) and Bronze Champion Shivering (Aaron Moses) also taking top honors at the AQHA World Show in November 2025.

Ranching Heritage-bred The top AQHA Ranching Heritage-bred horses were recognized in the Open, Amateur and Select divisions. In each

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division, the owner received a specially created ranch-horse trophy, and both the owner and breeder received $250. The top Ranching Heritage-bred horse in the Open division is Smooth Smoken Boon, bred and owned by Michael and Kim St. Clair of Kahoka, Missouri. Smooth Smoken Boon is a 2020 red roan stallion by Once In A Blu Boon and out of Smooth Smoken Cat by Smooth As A Cat. In the Amateur division, Cowpuncher Cadillac was named the top Ranching Heritage-bred horse. He is a 2017 bay roan stallion by Royal Blue Quixote and out of Miss Dakota Eyed by Two Eyed Red Buck. He is owned by Jimmy Daurio and David Renier of Loveland, Colorado, and was bred by the Pitzer Ranch/Dack Cattle LLC of Ericson, Nebraska.

The top Ranching Heritage-bred horse in the Select division is Always Do, owned and shown by Dana Avila of

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Scottsdale, Arizona. Always Do was bred by AQHA Ranching Heritage Breeder W.T. Waggoner Estate of Vernon, Texas.

The Senior Athletes Award recognizes an exhibitor and his or her American Quarter Horse for having the highest combined age competing at the AQHA Select World Championship Show. AQHA teamed with AQHA Corporate Partner Nutrena on this award since 2012. For the third year in a row, the honor went to Donald Tisdall, 84, of Castle Rock, Colorado. He was riding Pistol Packin Mister, 25, a 2000 sorrel gelding by Mister Dual Pep out of Taffy Remedy

by Doc’s Remedy.

Tisdall and Pistol Packin Mister also earned the AQHA Century Club Award, which was new at the 2025 World Show. This award was presented to all Select horse-and-exhibitor combinations with a combined age of 100 years old or older.

The Gene Graves Super-Select Special Recognition Award goes to the Super-Select exhibitor, age 70 and over, earning the greatest number of points in Level 3 Select competition at the 2025 AQHA and Select World. This year’s winner is Debbie Wolaver of Mocksville, North Carolina, showing Impulsive Details, a 2014 bay mare by MDR Impulsified and out of Late Night Details by Last Detail.

The Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau Leading Owner Award is given to the owner whose horses accumulate the highest number of points at the AQHA and Select World Championship Shows in both Level 3 and Level 2 classes. Horses shown in the Amateur, Select and Open divisions are included. The owner must have at least three horses entered and shown to be eligible. For 2025, the leading owner award goes to Iron Horse Ranch of Granbury, Texas, which had horses competing in halter classes in all divisions.

Full World Show results, as well as videos of the winning horses, are available at www.aqha.com/worldshow.

ttt On this page (top) Carly Veldman Parks guides Lotza Hot Chips to a win in the L3 Junior Trail and Dana Avila showing Always Do to a win in Amateur Select Ranch Trail, helping the pair capture the Select Amateur All-Around title. On the opposite page, some scenes from this year’s show.

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RECIPIENT MARES by Katherine Jarve Numerous issues could arise for both parties without the benefit of a written contract dies at some point during the pregnancy or during birth? What Although it’s still the holiday season, avid horse breeders if the mare is critically injured and needs to be euthanized durare already looking forward to the upcoming breeding season. ing the pregnancy? The written agreement should anticipate With advancements over the years in embryo transfers, many this unfortunate scenario and discuss potential financial and breeders are taking advantage of leasing recipient or “recip” legal liabilities. Of course, legal responsibility will likely debroodmares as surrogates. This practice can be beneficial for pend on the manner of death. If the death was due to negliseveral reasons particularly if the donor mare is still on the gence, then the party with possession of the recipient mare is show circuit or is otherwise unable to carry a foal.

While the practice is fairly common, there are many issues more likely to be liable. The parties should contemplate the unpleasant possibility that the mare may die. that can arise. This article takes a look at some of the most 5. The foal dies. Was there a “live foal guarantee” assocommon problems in using recipient mares. ciated with the pregnancy? This term has been defined as a 1. Not having a written agreement. As with any legal exfoal that can stand or nurse within 24 to 48 hours after birth. change, you should have a detailed written agreement drafted But what happens if a foal dies on day three? Unless the lanand executed by all parties. The agreement should, at miniguage specifies otherwise, the fact that the foal stood and mum, identify the parties, the recipient mare, and lease fee as well as all important details about the transfer and care of the recipient mare. Without a written Without a written agreement, it is very difficult to agreement, it is very difficult to determine what the determine what the parties agreed to and even more difficult parties agreed to and even more difficult to enforce to enforce that agreement. that agreement. You should take the time to reduce an agreement to writing and have an attorney renursed will mean that the live foal guarantee has been met. view it. Often, people think they can save a buck or two by The foal’s owner may interpret this “guarantee” differently. drafting an agreement themselves or piecing together various 6. The owner of the foal is not identified. While it may forms on the internet. This is typically not the case. Having a seem like a no-brainer, you should absolutely identify the valid, attorney prepared or reviewed agreement at the outset is owner of the foal resulting from the pregnancy so that there is much more cost-effective than handling a legal dispute.

2. The parties do not agree about the care of the recipient no misunderstanding. Although uncommon, there may be circumstances where the party does not want the foal. Alternamare. The parties should discuss and agree upon the care of tively, what happens if the party leasing the donor fails to make the recipient mare and any costs in advance. Those terms payments as agreed to during the pregnancy? Does that party should be included in the written agreement. Specifically, the now surrender ownership of the foal? Your written agreement parties should specifically outline what type of care the mare should specifically address these issues. will receive. For example, the parties should discuss topics 7. The recipient mare is not returned. It is typically unsuch as type and frequency of feed, including hay, grain, and derstood that a leased recipient mare will be returned if not supplements, housing of the mare (i.e., in the stall under lights kept at the breeding facility. However, when must the mare be or turned out in the pasture), and farrier care. The parties should also discuss services, such as veterinarian care, that may returned? Also, in what condition must the mare be returned?

Who is responsible for any shipping or transportation fees? be needed as well as payment for any associated costs.

3. The recipient mare does not take. Sometimes, despite the parties’ best efforts, the recipient mare does not become Katherine Jarve is a partner at the Marlton, New Jersey pregnant during the breeding season. Now what? Many times, law firm of Jarve Kaplan Granato Starr, LLC. She is licensed the parties have not considered this worst-case scenario. The in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and maintains a practice in parties should include terms in the written agreement about personal injury and civil litigation, including equine related what constitutes the “breeding season,” how many embryo issues. Katherine spent her childhood competing on the natransfers will be made, and ultimately, who will be responsible tional AQHA show circuit. This article is for informational for the care of the mare, including taking physical possession purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. Quesand pay the costs, if the mare does not take. tions, comments or suggestions can be e-mailed to kjarve@nj4. The recipient mare dies. What happens if the mare triallawyers.com.

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Be� L�pi� This Pennsylvania competitor knows what it’s like to juggle work, family & horses Text Corrine S.Borton Photos Kirstie Marie, Shane Rux, AE Photography and Courtney Borton Ament Pennsylvania Amateur competitor Beth Lepping, understands what it takes to juggle a demanding career, family and a hobby that she loves.

With an RN, BSN and MS, Lepping is now the owner of Lepping Consulting, a clinical research consulting company.

She helps pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms and CROs manage their clinical studies, specializing primarily in hematology and oncology.

At home she is a busy mom to sons Evan, 18, and Aedan, 15, who have demanding academic and athletic schedules of their own.

And since this past spring she has been enjoying her time riding her latest show partner, Look Here Cowboy, a 2021 red roan mare by Hay Goodlookn out of Huntin for a Cowboy in Western Pleasure classes.

Lepping trains with Casey Willis and Look Here Cowboy was already a part of his program.

“I just loved her, she is so pretty and Casey had me try her out,”Lepping explained. “We have had an amazing year so far and she keeps getting better.

40 | INSTRIDE EDITION | DECEMBER 2025

They got their partnership off on the right foot by placing in the top five in the $25,000 Limited Horse Limited Rider Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the Orange Blossom Classic/Sudden Impulse Futurity in Ocala, Florida. Together they won the Non-Pro 3 & 4-Year-Old Western Pleasure Stakes Futurity at the Pennsylvania Quarter Horse Association’s Nittany Classic and they were Reserve Champions in Amateur Select Western Pleasure at the American Quarter Horse Association’s Region 5 Show. At The Premier in Lexington, Kentucky, Lepping and Look Here Cowboy were top three in the 4-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure and in September they were Reserve Champions in the NSBA $25,000 Limited Horse Non-Pro Western Pleasure Maturity at the Championship Show in Ocala.

“I’m always striving to improve but I also make sure to keep a healthy balance between my horses and everyday life,” Lepping said.

Lepping is no newcomer to the horse world.

“I grew up with horses,” she recalled. “My

dad always had a Quarter Horse at home. We trail rode together when I was young. I rode English growing up. My Dad had a Reining horse with Cody Herr at Willow Brook Farms a long time ago and he took me to my first Quarter Horse Congress. I got to see a whole new world of horses and showing there. Needless to say, I was hooked! ttt

Beth Lepping is pictured on the opposite page with her current show partner, Look Here Cowboy and riding at the Orange Blossom Classic/Sudden Impulse Futurity in Ocala, Florida. On this page (clockwise from top) Beth and Look Here Cowboy winning the Non-Pro 3 & 4-Year-Old Western Pleasure at the PQHA Nittany Classic; with family trail riding on vacation; with Look Here Cowboy at Casey Willis Show Horses, located at MNM Stoneridge Farms LLC in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.

Lepping got her own start showing with a pony named Blueberry that she showed at local open shows.

“I did Pony Club and 4H growing up and then got introduced to Quarter Horse shows when I got older,” she explained. “Once I started showing Quarter Horses, I switched to the Western Pleasure.

“It is a very difficult class that looks so easy,” she admitted. “A really good pleasure horse is so fun to watch when they make it look so soft and effortless.”

Lepping has had the opportunity to show several successful show horses including Easily Invited, a 2004 mare by Invitation Only, she rode to a top 10 in the Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the 2008 Southern Belle Invitation. Next came Perfect Chex, a 2003 gelding by Zippo Pine Chex. Together they earned a Reserve Championship in Western Pleasure at the 2015 AQHA Level 1 Championship Show and a top five placing at the 2016 Level 1 Championship Show. With Best Made Machine, a 2007 mare by Machine Made out of Im The Best, Lepping earned a Reserve Championship in the 2-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the Tom Powers Futurity. They captured a top five placing in the 3 & 4-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure at the 2020 Silver Dollar Classic and finished 2019 in eighth place in the 2-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure in the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) year-end standings and in10th place in the 3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure in 2020.

Lepping recently made the decision to offer Look Here Cowboy for sale and she is excited about starting a brand new show partnership. “ I always want to do better and I enjoy challenges,” Lepping said. “The horse show world is completely different from my work so it’s a nice change.”

Lepping and her husband Scott, live in Green Lane, Pennsylvania, a small town outside Philadelphia, and love taking trips with their boys, staying on ranches and enjoying the beautiful country via horseback.

It’s a busy life, but Lepping wouldn’t have it any other way.

“As everyone knows, it’s hard juggling the family schedules,” she said. “Between my work and the boys’ school and basketball schedules it can be challenging some days, but it’s all worth it.”

Amateur Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for an amateur profile email Corrine Borton, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.

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C�s� Fry Indiana youngster’s story is more about the love for horses than the buckle Text Courtney Borton Ament Photos Shane Rux At just 12 years old, Carson Fry of Roachdale, Indiana, has already accomplished the dream of a lifetime. This year, the young competitor claimed the Champion title in 11 & Under Showmanship at the All American Quarter Horse Congress – a pinnacle of youth competition. Yet, his story is less about the buckle he won and more about the deeply rooted love for horses, the transformative gift of a bay gelding named Duke and the small-town community that lifted him to the winner’s circle.

For Carson, horses are not a hobby but a birthright.

“My mom's side of our family has always had horses,” he explained. “My great grandmother, Phyllis Webb showed, and my great grandfather, Thomas Webb, competed in harness racing.”

Though his mother and uncles focused on livestock, the connection was always there. It was his great grandma’s horse, Foxy, who first gave Carson a taste of riding with a pony named Buddy. When the family of a local 4-H exhibitor was looking to rehome their pony, the connection was made.

“We went over to see Buddy and I fell in love with him,” Carson recalled.

That simple act of generosity from Josie Fueher and her family gave Carson his start. Though Buddy recently passed, his impact is undeniable.

“Buddy had the kindest soul, was the most patient 44 | INSTRIDE EDITION | DECEMBER 2025

teacher, and taught me so much,” Carson said. “He is the reason for my love of horses.”

His show career began modestly in the fall after acquiring Buddy, at the Bainbridge Saddle Club in Greencastle, Indiana. He describes it as a “small, family-friendly, open show” with a “very relaxed atmosphere and perfect for people learning to show.” It was the perfect proving ground before bigger goals took hold.

The next chapter in Carson's journey began in the fall of 2022 when he started leasing ShowMeWhatYouGot (Duke), a 2011 bay gelding by the famous sire RL Best of Sudden.

Duke’s owners, Jim and Marla Miles, had owned him since he was a yearling. But as Carson and Duke bonded, the Miles family saw something extraordinary.

Carson’s mother, Renee Fry, describes a connection that goes beyond ordinary partnership.

“Carson and Duke have a very special bond like nothing I've seen before,” she said. “Marla and Jim saw this as well and decided they didn't want Carson and Duke to ever be separated.”

For Carson’s 11th birthday, they decided on a truly generous, life-altering surprise. After he finished opening gifts at his party, he walked outside to find Duke waiting for him alongside a large sign that read: “Happy Birthday Duke's new owner.” Renee called it “truly the ultimate act of love.” The Miles gifted Carson their “heart horse” and he now refers to them as a “bonus set of grandparents.”

Carson’s favorite class to watch is Showmanship, because it focuses on the exhibitor’s ability to correctly and precisely guide their horse through a pattern.

“It's fun to see how other people do maneuvers and how they queue their horse with their bodies,” he explained.

It makes perfect sense then that his ambition was tied to this class.

“Since I was young, I've heard people talk about the All American Quarter Horse Congress and how special it was,”

Carson said. “When I was seven years old, I set a goal to win Showmanship there.

Some people told me it was unrealistic, but I didn't let that stop me.”

That determined focus led him to his biggest show accomplishment yet.

“My biggest show accomplishment was definitely winning 11 & Under Showmanship at the Congress this year," he said. "I'm not sure anything will ever top this win.”

The victory was made even more amazing by a secret only a few people knew…

Surprisingly, the 2025 All American Quarter Horse Congress was Carson’s first breed show.

The win was a culmination of intense, focused work, but Carson is quick to credit the people in his life for his success.

“I don't have a traditional trainer, but I have lots of people in my life that have stepped in to help me achieve my goals,” he said.

His barn community, where he boards Duke at Barry and Sandy Grimes' facility, is his backbone. Marla Miles, who gifted him Duke, is his constant mentor, teaching him how to clip, band, give shots and all things horse care. The Miles’ belief in the team is so strong that she drove three hours to watch him show, days after having surgery.

Melissa Jones has been an invaluable part of his success.

Renee notes that Jones' unmatched attention to detail has taken them to the next level. Her thoughtful advice and dedication to perfecting maneuvers has been a key component.

A final, necessary push came from Saul Sliss Show Horses.

After sending Duke to Sliss for a spring tune-up, Sliss encouraged Carson to show at the Congress. Saul's nudge, Renee admits, was all it took to get them on board.

Carson’s favorite class to ride is Horsemanship because you must really be in sync with your horse to execute the pattern well.

Outside of horses Carson is simply a busy sixth grader who loves the outdoors. He is a member of the Putnam County Horse and Pony Judging and Hippology teams, enjoys fishing, and shows pigs with his 15-year-old brother, Jackson.

His work ethic extends to the family farm, operated by his grandparents and uncle, where he helps drive trucks and semis of hay, and even runs a seasonal sweet corn business with his siblings and cousins, with all the profits going toward college funds.

ttt

Carson Fry is pictured on the opposite page with his show partner ShowMeWhatYouGot and winning the 11 & Under Youth Showmanship at the Congress. On this page he is shown (clockwise from top) showing his pig, with Melissa Jones, with his enture family, and with Maria Miles.

Youth Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for an youth profile email Corrine Borton, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.

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BUZZ

The

ON THE WEB (www.instrideedition.com)

HOSTED BY MIDWAY UNIVERSITY IN KENTUCKY IHSA MEMBERS TAKE TOP HONORS AT TWO USHJA NATIONAL PROGRAMS

The MZ Farms/USHJA Emerging Athletes Program National Training Session and the USHJA Horsemanship Quiz Challenge Florida trainer Nick Mayabb is the latest Nationals were held Nov. 6-9 at Midway University in Midway, inductee into the National Snaffle Bit AssoKentucky. IHSA members Finley Scheffel, a freshman at Midway ciation (NSBA) Quarter University and Ella Hallman-Luhn, a junior at the Savannah ColMillion Dollar Club. He lege of Art and Design, earned top honors at each event, respecreached the milestone tively. by logging more than “We are proud that both winners of the USHJA Emerging $250,000 in lifetime Athlete Program National Finals and the USHJA Horsemanship NSBA earnings. Mayabb Challenge are members of the IHSA,” said IHSA Executive Direcgrew up in Ohio and tor Peter Cashman. “Their accomplishments reflect the IHSA’s was introduced to the horse industry mission to foster excellence in horsemanship, education and through his father, Jerry, who trained sportsmanship. We are also grateful to our longtime membership horses in addition to working fulltime. In 2012, he and his wife, Carmen, created partner USHJA, for their commitment to these outstanding proNCM Show Horses in Dacula, Georgia, grams.”

After attending her third MZ Farms/USHJA Emerging Athlater moving their training operation to letes Program National Training Session, Scheffel emerged as the Ocala. Mayabb’s NSBA earnings have included primarily Western Pleasure and Trail top athlete among 16 standout participants after four intensive days of riding and stable management. wins.

"I’d consider myself a bit of a veteran at the National Training Session now," said Scheffel, of Paris, Kentucky. "It feels The American Quarter Horse Association amazing to have finally reached the goal I set for myself.”

(AQHA) has announced "My next step is to stay consistent and keep improving in the appointment of every aspect of my riding," she said. "I don’t know exactly what Justin Shaw as its new my path is yet, but I think if I keep a positive attitude and keep director of communicamoving forward, my path will find me. As for the training grant tions. In this role, Shaw money, I’d love to use it for something special, maybe to go will guide the strategic direction of AQHA’s internal and external com- overseas for an internship or something that could really develop my riding skills further." munications, sharing the story of the Returning Lead Riding Clinician and Olympian Joe Fargis, American Quarter Horse and advancing the Stable Manager Clinician Colleen Reed, and the EAP Committee Association’s mission to serve members worldwide. In his new role, Shaw will over- recognized Scheffel’s growth, horsemanship and tenacity, all qualities that ultimately earned her the title. see AQHA brand messaging, media rela“The participants this week were all really good riders, all tions, and publicity.

16 of them,” said Fargis.

Fargis said that when it came to naming a winner, it (IN) DEATH American Quarter horse Association (AQHA) wasn’t just about who jumped the best.

“It’s about their overall horsemanship, their habits in the Past President R.A. stable, how they treat their horses, and their knowledge,” he ex“Rob” Brown Jr. plained. “The winner isn’t defined by just riding ability; it’s everyof Throckmorton, thing combined. This year, that person was Finley. She had a Texas, passed away great three days and she deserved it.”

Nov. 7 at the age of Encompassing horsemanship in and out of the saddle, Hall89. He was the son of Valda and R.A. Brown Sr. and served man-Luhn dominated the 2025 USHJA Horsemanship Quiz Challenge Nationals. The competition took place alongside the MZ as AQHA president in 1995. He was inducted into the American Quarter Horse Hall Farms/USHJA Emerging Athletes Program National Training Session. of Fame in 2004, joining his father there.

(IN) LIFE

ttt Finley Scheffel is pitured (top) at the MZ Farms/USHJA EAP National Training Session and below that, Ella Hallman-Luhn (right) is shown at the USHJA Horsemanship Quiz Challenge Nationals.

Photos/Rachel Milewski

“I’m super excited about this win,” said Hallman-Luhn, who represented USHJA Zone 9. She credits her success to consistent studying, teamwork, and her lifelong dedication to learning every facet of horsemanship, including textbooks and YouTube videos to hands-on barn work.

Hallman-Luhn sad that after they won the IHSA Team Challenge, she and some of her teammates qualified for HQC Nationals.

“We started study groups every weekend, which made all the difference. Studying with friends kept me motivated, and we bounced ideas off each other, watched old study sessions, and even asked our coaches and barn managers questions to learn more. I don’t think I would’ve studied as hard without them.”

Taking a clean sweep of the competition, Hallman-Luhn earned the highest score across all three phases: the Practicum A Exam, Horsemanship/Identification Exam and Written Exam.

For more information visit www. www.ihsainc.com.

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REDUCING FRUSTRATION by Emily C. Dooley Hayfeeders and other tools can improve health, welfare of stabled horses Four times each day over four weeks student athletes, volSimple items like hay feeders, giant rubber activity balls and shatter-proof mirrors can improve the health and welfare of unteers and Brauns brought out the enrichment items. The interactions were observed and videotaped daily, amounting to stabled animals while also reducing frustration behaviors, ac720 hours of video to review. cording to University of California, Davis, research published Enrichment Timing Matters in the journal Animals.

During midday when food wasn’t present, researchers saw The findings offer a low-cost way for owners to keep increases in heartbeat, grazing and movement and decreases in horses engaged while reducing the risk of ulcers, fragile leg frustration behavior, such as stomping, kicking and tail swishbones and other health and behavioral issues. ing. One horse, number 39, managed to pick up the activity ball “Just like humans, animals can be bored, so enrichment and move it around. Others kicked around the hay feeder. can be a way to stimulate the mind,” said lead author Miranda Mares tended to dislike the mirrors while Geldings seemed Brauns, who conducted the research as a master’s student more interested. studying animal biology at UC Davis. “These enrichment tools “I see that as a positive response, because the horse is inreally are improving the behaviors of animals, and by improving behavior, they’re also improving the animal’s physical and mental health.”

During midday when food wasn’t present, researchers saw Wild vs Stabled Horses increases in heartbeat, grazing and movement and decreases in On a normal day, wild horses walk up to 20 miles and spend at least half of that time grazing. frustration behavior, such as stomping, kicking and tail Stabled horses spend most of their days in stalls swishing. without many opportunities to forage for food, but their natural instincts and needs do not go away, teracting with the enrichment tool,” McLean said. “If you know said Amy McLean, an associate professor in the Department of in between feedings or in between exercise, your horse may be Animal Science, who oversaw the research.

“A lot of horses, as well as zoo animals held in captivity or a little bored in a stall or confined space, that's when you should offer a hay ball, or the jolly ball. By introducing these in these smaller confined spaces, may display behaviors that various tools at certain times of the day, I think it really can imare not wanted as a way of coping with their environment that prove equine welfare for the industry.” has less stimulation in it,” McLean said. “We can improve the During the last week of the research, Beethoven’s Symenvironment so it’s not compromising their health just standing phony No. 9 was played. That component of the research was in one spot.” not included in this paper, though McLean’s lab has done subThe research was a collaboration with the UC Davis Intersequent experiments on the effects of noise on horses and collegiate Equestrian Team. hopes to continue that work.

“We had a lot of student athletes who were monitoring be(Ahmed Ali at Clemson University and Jeannine Berger at havior and assisted throughout those studies,” McLean said. “I Sacramento Veterinary Behavior Services also contributed to love working with the equestrian team, and I think that’s imthis research.) portant for the student athletes to have that research opportunity as well.”

Smart Halters and Video Monitoring Nine competition horses – American Quarter and AmeriEmily C. Dooley was a reporter for more than two decades can Paint – were fitted with smart halters that measured heart before joining the College of Agricultural and Environmental and respiratory rates.

Sciences at the University of California at Davis as a commu“Incorporating the physiological parameters was a way nications specialist in August 2021. You can reach her at (530) that we get insight into the emotional state of the animal,” said 754-4979 (office) and (530) 650-6807 (cell) or email her at ecBrauns, who is now a primate technician at the Duke Lemur dooley@ucdavis.edu Center in North Carolina.

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The

ASSOCIATIONS

DELLIN APPOINTED CEO (IN) AQHA NEWS

CRAWFORD INTERIM CEO (IN) APHA NEWS

The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA)recently announced the appointment of David “Dave” Dellin as its new Chief Executive Officer. Dellin will start on Jan. 5.

The selection of Dellin follows an extensive national search to identify a leader who can guide the world’s largest equine breed registry into its next era of service, innovation and global outreach.

“On behalf of the AQHA Executive Committee, I’m excited to announce our unanimous selection of Dave Dellin as AQHA’s next chief executive officer. We followed a professional and structured process that included hiring an executive recruiting firm with expertise in equine associations to guide us through this process. The recruiting firm gathered vital information about AQHA and its needs prior to sourcing candidates. The search committee and Executive Committee were provided with extensive background, experience and leadership skills on four very qualified candidates who met the criteria outlined in the job description. After multiple interviews, Dave was our choice to lead AQHA into a bright future,” said AQHA President Jeff Tebow.

Dellin brings a strong background in membership service, organizational leadership and a genuine appreciation for the equine community. He is a strategic and versatile leader with over 20 years of experience driving the equine industry’s growth through innovative leadership and strategic planning. Dellin has 13 years of equine breed association experience as the CEO and as an executive leader at the American Paint Horse Association.

As CEO, Dellin will oversee the Association’s operations, strategic initiatives, member service programs and continued efforts to elevate the American Quarter Horse on a global stage.

Kurt Crawford will lead APHA as the association’s interim chief executive officer, effective Nov. 17. Former CEO David Dellin has accepted the CEO position at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA).

Dellin will work closely with Crawford to ensure a smooth transition for the APHA family of brands, which also includes Marked for Greatness LLC and the American Paint Horse Foundation.

The APHA Board of Directors will explore targeted candidates before permanently filling the chief executive officer position.

“We are excited Kurt has accepted the interim position; the Board of Directors, officers and myself look forward to his new role in the association,” APHA President Diane Alves said. “We are confident, not only in Kurt’s ability to guide the transition, but also in the leadership he will provide as APHA rolls out the Color Bonus and additional Paynt Points programs in 2026.

Eight years of experience with APHA, extensive interactions with sponsors and exhibitors, and a wealth of knowledge of the Fort Worth Stockyards landscape give Kurt the foundation to continue to move our organization forward.”

Dellin was instrumental in rolling out several new initiatives during his tenure at APHA, including horseIQ and the Paynt Points incentive program. Creating valueadded reasons for people to engage with their Paint Horses and APHA has been central to his vision.

“It has truly been an honor to serve as CEO of the American Paint Horse Association and to work alongside such a dedicated staff and membership,” Dellin said.

“My decision did not come easily, and I will deeply miss all of the wonderful people and horses in this organization.”

For additional information visit www.apha.com.

NSBA SPECIALTY JUDGES

POSSIBLE FOR RAIL CLASSES AND LONGE LINE National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) is finalizing plans to establish a Specialty Judges Card, which would credential judges specifically for Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure and Longe Line disciplines. The measure will be presented to the NSBA Board of Directors at its December board meeting for final approval.

The NSBA’s Judges Committee has been developing the concept for the past two years, guided by feedback from members during the 2024 Town Hall meeting at Back To Berrien, weighing the advantages and considerations of establishing specialty credentials. The committee has reviewed and discussed the measure through multiple conference calls before establishing its final recommendation that will be presented to the NSBA Board of Directors in December.

“The Judges Committee has vetted this issue for a couple of years, and I see no reason why it will not move forward,”

noted NSBA President Phil Harris.

NSBA Executive Director Stephanie Lynn noted that the initiative aligns with NSBA’s roots and its mission to promote and support the traditional disciplines that serve as the foundation for the show horse industry. “Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle and Longe Line continue to represent the cornerstone classes from which today’s diverse performance events have evolved,” Lynn said. “Currently NSBA recognizes specialty judges for the Ranch and Hunter/Jumpers based on the criteria of other testing associations. This will allow NSBA to be the primary association to credential judges specifically for the rail events.”

Pending approval by the NSBA Board of Directors, the Judges Committee anticipates applications for the Specialty Judges Card will become available in early 2026, with testing opportunities expected in the spring of 2026.

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Aaron Moses Show Horses ........FC, 10-15

Galyean, Gil ........................................53

Pickard Hanson Show Horses...........32-33

Armellini Show Horses ..........................55

Glover/Galyean ...................................53

Pilot Knob ............................................52

Arrington Show Horses ............................9

Gumz Farms ...................................28-31

Pro Horse Services ...............................48

Backes QH .....................................17, 53

Harris Leather ................................22, 56

Roberts, Alyse ................................... ..52

Baker Futurity Horses .............................53

HighPoint Perf Horses .......................9-15

Batt Man ................................................5

Beckey’s Place ....................................BC

Starnes Insurance Agency ......................53

Jeff Kirkbride Photography .....................52

Sweet Shop ....................................... ..53

Briere, Pierre ........................................53

Kathy’s Tails ..........................................52

Tali Terlizzi Show Horses .....................2-3

Burris, Tony ..........................................52

Kendalls Western Hats ...........................52

Teagan, Elisabet ...................................BC

Kennedy, Kathie ...................................53

The Luxury Line ...................................16

Lakins, Kenny ......................................52

Van Slyke, Katie ........................FC, 10-15

Blake Britton Show Horses................. ..52

CAC Show Horses ............................. ..52

Capital Qtr Horses ..........................42-43

Chafin Perf. Horses ..............................53

Machine Made ...............................34-35

Dobbs Insurance ..................................52

Wilkes, Lisa ...........................................7

North Farm .....................................35-37

Equine Healthcare Int ..............................6 54 | INSTRIDE EDITION | DECEMBER 2025

Willis Show Horses .........................35-40

Ya’ll Hashtag This .................................46

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