ettle is not a word in Liv Jillian Winter’s vocabulary. She may only be 14 years old but when it comes to showing horses, she is mature beyond her years.
“My connection to horses runs deeper than just a hobby,” she explained. “It’s the heartbeat of my family, the thread that ties three generations together and the foundation of countless memories that have shaped who I am.”
The Michigan youth competitor will put all her hard work, dedication and determination to the test next month when she competes again at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Youth World Championship Show in Oklahoma City.
“It is, without a doubt, my favorite show of the year,” Liv said. “It’s where the best youth riders from around the world come together for a shot at taking home a globe – one of the highest honors in our sport. The energy is absolutely electric, and the level of talent is unmatched.”
For Liv, what makes it so special is everything that leads up to it – the long hours of preparation, the hard work, the dedication, and the drive to be your very best when you step into that arena.
“It’s the kind of challenge I live for, and I can’t wait to give it my all again this year,” she said.
This year, Liv will compete with Miss Dark Sparkle in 14-18 Horsemanship, Equitation and Showmanship. She is showing We The North in 14-18 Hunter Under Saddle.
She is no stranger to the AQHA Youth World Show. In 2021, at just 11 years old, she competed there for the first time with Diggin Hot Time, winning the Level 1 Equitation, and capturing a Reserve World Championship in the Level 3 13 & Under Equitation.
“It was a time that I will never forget,” she said.
Liv’s journey to success has been marked by hard work and determination, plus a lot of natural ability.
“It all began with my Aunt Courtney who Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Attention
was the one that started it all for our family,” Liv explained. “Then, at the age of 7, her cousin, Adam Winter found himself drawn to horses as well. Adam dedicated his heart and soul to learning the craft, and by the age of 19, he had achieved what many only dream of – he became a professional horse trainer.”
It wasn’t just a job to Adam. It was his life’s purpose, a dream he turned into reality through unwavering dedication and hard work. Alongside his wife Sheyenne, Adam owns and operate Winter Performance Horses in Zeeland, Michigan.
Every ride, every challenge, every triumph is a tribute to the passion that started with Courtney, grew through Adam, and now lives on in Liv.
“Liv is the kind of rider a coach can only hope for,” he said. “She is passionate, motivated and doesn’t settle. She is very hard on herself. Liv is never afraid to put in the hours or make tough adjustments to become a better horseman.”
But it’s been a journey. In the fall of 2017, when she was just seven years old and under Adam’s watchful eye and with Courtney’s encouragement, Liv entered her very first show on Courtney’s horse, A Diggin Hot Time (Wilson), a 2006 chestnut gelding sired by Hot Diggity Joe out of Boston Scotch And Rocks.
“When I started showing, something just clicked. I fell in love with every part of it – the excitement of getting all dressed up, having my makeup done, and stepping into the show pen ready to give it my all,” she explained. “That’s when I realized this wasn’t just something I liked – it was a true passion, something I knew I wanted to keep chasing for years to come.
Since that first show, Liv has never looked back.
“For seven years I had the great honor to ride Wilson,” she said. “Wilson’s eyes could tell 1,000 stories and embodied the gentleness of his soul. One look at them and you knew what he s
Liv Jillian Winter is pictured (clockwise from top) with her current show partners, We The North and Miss Dark Sparkle; with her trainer Adam Winter and his wife, Sheyenne at the NSBA World Show; celebrating with Team Winter at the AQHA Youth World Show and capturing a Reserve in Equitation at the 2024 AQHA Youth World Show.
was made of…unconditional love.”
Wilson is the horse that started it all for Liv and changed her life forever. She competed with him in Horsemanship, Equitation, Hunter Under Saddle, Trail and Showmanship from 2017 to 2023.
“Our last ride together was in 2023 at the Quarter Horse Congress,” she explained. “He gave everything he had that day and executed the pattern perfectly, but for the first time ever, I missed my diagonal and we were disqualified.”
Liv was absolutely devastated that it ended that way. Why? she asked herself.
“I realized later that the trophies come and go; the ribbons get hung or stored; but it’s moments like these that change a person,” she said. “It’s what I learn in the valleys that give me enough strength to get me to the next mountain top. Why did I miss my diagonal on my very last ride with him? I think he wanted to remind me to appreciate every ride, to remain humble, and never forget that with success, there must be failure.”
And there was plenty of success along the way. In addition to their success together at the AQHA Youth World Shows, Liv and Diggin Hot Time earned many Quarter Horse Congress accolades, including being named Small Fry All-Around Champions in 2019.
And then in 2023, Miss Dark Sparkle (Clover), a 2014 mare by Dress Western, out of Sparkling In The Dark, came along.
“In every horse girl's life, you connect with a horse you will remember forever,” Liv said. “I was lucky enough to find that at 13 years old.”
At the time, Wilson was being prepared for the Youth World but there had been talks about the time coming when Wilson would be retired. Clover was in the Winter program. Her owner had decided to take a break from showing and offer her for sale. Adam Winter had Liv show her at the Big A Circuit to help her get marketed.
“I didn’t think much of it at first, but the moment I rode her, I knew something was different,” Liv explained. “I completely fell in love with her.”
During that week people would ask Adam to try her out.
“One family loved her, but I knew I couldn't let her go,” Liv recalled. “I called my parents almost in tears, later that day Adam told me she had sold. I was devastated but, the next day my parents called and told me we purchased Clover.”
Liv Winter is pictured (top) with her current show partner, Miss Dark Sparkle; above left, with A Diggin Hot Time at the 2019 Quarter Horse Congress where they were Small Fry All Around Champions; and (on the opposite page) celebrating with family at the Quarter Horse Congress.
Liv’s team feels Clover is the perfect horse to successfully carry her into the 14-18 Youth Division. A lot of that belief stems from the fact that they have such a strong connection.
“I think one of things Liv does and doesn’t realize is she creates a very great connection between her and the horse she is showing,” Adam said. “The horses she has shown over the years they all love her. She is also very blessed that riding comes natural to her. She has a great amount of feel when it comes to riding. She is fiercely
determined, adaptable, and able to perform when stakes are high.”
In addition to Clover, Liv has been building a relationship with We The North, a 2019 bay gelding sired by Hot N Blazing out of Invitd For Romance, owned by Sheyenne. Together they have been showing in Youth Hunter Under Saddle classes. Liv and Sheyenne have a close relationship.
“Shey is always there for me, no matter what, she explained. “She’s the person I know I can count on through every high and low. She’s always in my corner, cheering me on, supporting me, and celebrating every little win right alongside me. What makes her so special is the way she brings such a calm, steady presence, even in the most stressful situations. She just gets me in a way that not many people do, and I’m so thankful to have her by my side every step of the way.”
In fact, Liv credits Sheyenne and Adam with all of her success and says
she would not be the competitor she is today without them.
“Adam is more than just my trainer,” she said. “He’s my cousin, my mentor, and truly one of my very best friends. I could never fully put into words how much I admire him and how grateful I am for the impact he’s had on my life. Adam has taught me so much more than how to show horses. Through every win and every setback, he’s taught me about perseverance, character, and what it really means to work for something you love.”
The lessons don’t end inside the show arena.
“Adam pushes me to be better every single day,” Liv said. “He challenges me to dig deeper, believe in myself and keep going even when things get tough. The best part is, he sees potential in me long before I see it in myself. His training program is not easy. It demands focus, dedication, and heart. But because of him, I’ve learned that I’m capable of far more than I ever imagined.
When she is not busy riding or at a show, Liv stays busy with school work. She is a student at Ogemaw Heights High School in West Branch, Michigan. She will graduate in 2028. And family, as is obvious, is very important to her. That includes her parents, Bob and Jenny Winter; her brother, Lane; grandparents Pete and Peggy Winter and Randy and Sherry Barber; aunts, Courtney and Judy.
“When I’m not in the arena showing horses, I’m usually thinking about it,” Liv said. “It’s something that’s always on my mind honestly. But showing isn’t the only thing that keeps me busy. I work two jobs and I’ve learned the value of hard work and responsibility from a young age.”
When she does have free time, she enjoys making memories with her friends and family.
“Whether it’s a country music concert, a day at the lake, or just hanging out,” she said. “I know it’s important to enjoy the little moments with people who mean the most to me.”
PRESIDENT
Lynn N. Rohwedder 7010 Butter Creek Rd. Evansville, IL 62242 Phone:(618) 806-8851 rohwed@wisperhome.com
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Mike Battey 1371 Taylor Ave. Wilton, IA 52778 Phone (563) 506-0680 mbattey69@gmail.com
VICE-PRESIDENT
Harold “Butch” Watson 7787 SW Regional Airport Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72713 Phone (749) 644-1930 barlquarterhorses@gmail.com
VICE-PRESIDENT
Ricky Young 2664 Sandy Flats Rd Bethel Springs, TN 38315 Phone (731) 610-9077 youngfarms57@gmail.com
Gene Ray Stuart 70 Mint Springs Rd Owenton, KY 40359 Phone:(502) 558-1984 gene@generaystewart.com
PHBA GENERAL MANAGER
Shirley Stuart 15253 E Skelly Dr. Tulsa, OK 74116 Phone:(918) 438-1234 assist@palominohba.com
HEADQUARTERS
PALOMINO HORSE BREEDERS OF AMERICA
The international organization known as the Palomino Horse Breeders of America (PHBA) was formed in 1941 to collect, record, preserve the purity of blood, and improve the breeding of Palomino horses. The original concept began in 1938 due to the efforts of numerous dedicated horsemen and horsewomen.
MISSION STATEMENT
To record and preserve the pedigree of the Palomino Horse while maintaining the integrity of the breeds. To provide beneficial services for its members which enhance and encourage Palomino ownership and participation. To generate growth of PHBA membership via the marketing, promotion, advertising and publicity of the Palomino Horse.
ABOUT PHBA
The Palomino Horse Breeders of America, Tulsa, Oklahoma was formed in 1941 as a member owned, non-profit organization for the purpose of registering and improving horses standing between 14 and 17 hands tall, and exhibiting body color, with variations from light to dark, of a newly minted U S fourteen karat gold coin. There are more than 38 Affiliate Palomino Associations network associations on the state or local basis. APAs host horse shows, fundraising projects, clinics, futurities and family activities.
Palomino horses registered with American Quarter Horse, American Paint Horse Association, American Holsteiner Horse Association, Pinto Horse Association of America, Appaloosa Horse Club, Jockey Club (Thoroughbreds) American Saddle Horses, Arabians, Half Arabs, Morgans, Mountain Pleasure Horses, Morabs, Quarabs, Missouri Fox Trotters and Rocky Mountain Horses are eligible for registration with PHBA provided the horse meets color and white rules.
PHBA maintains records on more than 88,000 horses and owners, more than 250,000 horse show entries, and over five hundred horse shows. PHBA provides recreational, financial, and competitive rewards for every age group, extending more than 900 approved classes for amateurs, novice/amateur, youth and open programs. Classes range from halter to jumping, horsemanship to driving, cutting to saddle seat, pole bending to reining, and barrel racing.
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION
The PHBA office is located at 15253 East Skelly Dr. Tulsa, Ok 74116 | Phone:(918) 438-1234 | Fax: (918) 438-1232 | E-Mail: yellahrses@palominohba.com
InStride Edition Magazine is the official publication of the Palomino Horse Breeders Of America. InStride Edition includes information on the association’s people, horses and programs. The magazine is distributed to PHBA members and approved judges. For information on advertising in the PHBA section or to suggest story ideas email Executive Editor Corrine S. Borton at CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com. You can also visit www.InStrideEdition.com.
World Show will be jam-packed with activities
Thank you all for traveling to beautiful and historically significant Springfield, Illinois, to be a part of our World Show. Whether you are here to participate, work, cheer on a friend or family member, the PHBA Executive Board hopes you enjoy your experience and wishes all exhibitors good luck! And for those of you who cannot attend in person, we hope you will catch the action on the Livestream broadcast, which is available anywhere you have internet service.
Our show encompasses 11 days filled with a variety of activities and classes. With a full slate of youth, Challenged Horsemen, Amateur and Open classes, there is something for everyone to show in. The youth have a theme for each day of youth classes. This year, instead of trophies, we are awarding Gist buckles to each World Champion and vests by Tioga Territory to each Reserve World Champion.
The Costume Showmanship Shoot Out Class will be on Monday, July 14, where contestants dress in costume and can have music to perform their original patterns to. It will be a blast to watch or participate in. This year’s theme is the “ 70s.” There is $1,000 payout in the pattern portion and great prizes to be awarded for the costume portion of the class.
We have the exciting $5,000 Added Money/Jackpot Open Ranch Riding Class offered for the first time this year. This will be the last class on Thursday, July 17. This class is open to all breeds. The PHBA Executive Board is so excited to see how many new participants this class will bring to our show.
We also have added money to 3-Year-Old Open Mares, 2-Year-Old Palomino Bred (PB) Western Pleasure, PHBA Open Ranch Riding, PHBA PB Open Ranch Riding, a beautiful Harris Leather headstall being awarded to the winner of the 4-Year-Old & Over Western Pleasure Maturity and new this year - a special legacy trophy awarded to the winner of the PHBA/NSBA 3-Year-Old Western Pleasure Derby.
None of this would be possible without the generous sponsors who have stepped up in a big way to sponsor these classes. A huge thank you to ALL our sponsors. Please know that we appreciate each and every one of you! Whether you have sponsored an added money class, are one of our Corporate Sponsors, Gold Spur, Silver Spur, Bronze Spur or Banner Sponsors, Livestream Sponsor, sponsored one or more classes or advertised in this program, we value your support of PHBA. Having the great prizes we are offering this year would not be possible without you.
I hope all exhibitors and guests will attend our annual Street Party BBQ. It is something we can do to give back to you for being here to support PHBA. The Executive Board will again provide burgers, hotdogs and chips and we will be doing the cooking and serving. There will be entertainment as well, so don’t miss this opportunity to socialize and relax at the Street Party. We look forward to visiting with you so be sure to attend.
Let’s make the World Show a positive experience
I am honored to introduce myself, Susie Arbo, as the Amateur President of the Palomino Horse Breeders of America. As a longtime member and passionate advocate for the Palomino breed, I have been excited to step into this role and work alongside fellow equestrians to enhance and grow the Amateur Division. My husband, Merle Arbo, and I reside on a horse ranch outside of Kingsville, Missouri. We own a group private mental health counseling practice and operate a 21-stall horse barn which includes animal assisted therapy. Some of you might recognize Merle’s name as he sometimes stands in the center of the pen at the horse shows.
With years of experience in the show arena and a deep love for these incredible horses, my vision is to increase participation, promote stronger engagement, and create meaningful opportunities for amateur exhibitors to develop and succeed. Spending 13 years in the NFL as a cheerleader and riding the mascot horse, I learned that education, sportsmanship, a positive attitude and camaraderie are key elements of a thriving association, and I am committed to ensuring that every amateur member feels supported and encouraged.
Something unique about my journey is, since 2020, I have had the privilege of co-hosting the TV show Better Horses, which airs on RFDTV and the Cowboy channel weekly. Through this opportunity, I have been able to experience ALL aspects of the equine world and have learned so much and met some incredible people. I would love to connect and learn what YOU are up to with your equine companions. Please reach out to me.
I look forward to connecting at the world show and beyond with PHBA members, hearing your ideas, and implementing initiatives that will strengthen our equine community. My goal for the World Show this year is to make it a positive and rewarding experience for all involved.
In closing, on behalf of the Amateur board, we appreciate you taking the time to come and support our amazing PHBA breed and world show. If at any time you have questions or want to be involved with the Amateur Association please let us know, we are always wanting positive, hardworking folks to join our team. Stop by our booth and check out what we do. If you are a supporter of someone showing here or financially contributed to the show, thank you for your dedication.
Now, let's have some fun and make this the best world show yet.
It’s been a busy year for the youth members
I am pleased to share what my board has been up to this year. During March, we did many things at convention. The youth had an art contest, which consisted of kids sending or bringing art to be judged and the winner received a gift card. We helped out with the live auction by carrying items and members of the board created baskets to be auctioned off. While at convention we also had our youth meeting and activity. The kids were able to enjoy some time to get away and play laser tag and bowling. Midwest Horse Fair was a huge success for the kids who were able to go. They learned a lot and got the PHBA name out there.
The Youth board has been getting sponsors for our world show since around January. Each kid on the board has worked hard and called everyone on our list. They have been assigned their committees for the world show to put together ideas for our Youth table, t-shirts, and ribbons. Not only have they done all of this but they are each also putting together a golden hospitality basket to be drawn for at the World Show. This consists of their getting items from the APAs they are assigned and putting it all together.
This year we are happy to say Chuck-A-Duck will continue with many great prizes. As a board we have put together a kick off bash with many team games to encourage our youth kids to work together. This will consist of relays and many other fun games. Senior Sunset will take place before Golden Horse, this is for any graduated seniors or aging out youth to get one last ride in the arena. We will provide cookies for anyone in attendance.
On behalf of the Youth board I would like to thank everyone who has helped us this year, we couldn’t do it without you. I look forward to seeing everyone at the World Show and helping out when needed. Good luck to all competing and safe travels.
Over $200,000 in cash, prizes awarded at 4th annual event
Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Cody Parmenter & Courtney Ament
Exhibitors at the Back To Berrien Futurity, held June 1721, at the Berrien County Fairgrounds in Michigan took home $217,180 in cash and prizes this year.
The facility was home to the Tom Powers Futurity from 1986 until 2018 when it was announced that the futurity would be moved to Wilmington, Ohio and then was discontinued.
In 2022 Gil Galyean, Jon Barry and Charles Cannizzaro took the initiative to bring a new futurity “Back to Berrien.”
According to Galyean, entries were way up this year over last and stall rentals increased by 100.
“We are appreciative of the support from exhibitors and the atmosphere that’s created there with the camping being so nice and the comradery between all the attendees,” Galyean said. “We also are very thankful for all the sponsors and we really try to highlight each and every one of them. The show staff is so appreciative of the sponsors because we would not have all that added money if it weren’t for them giving back to the industry that we enjoy and depend upon.”
Returning this year, and a highlight of the show was the $10,000 added $2,500 Novice Horse Western Pleasure, open to horses who had not earned $2,500 as of June 1 and sponsored by DAC.
“The DAC class continues to be a really fun, well participated in class and we couldn’t do it without the support of DAC and the Jacobs Family,” Galyean added.
For the second straight year the class was won by Texas trainer Aaron Moses. This year Moses rode First Thingz First (Denver), a 2020 red roan stallion, sired by RL Best Of Sudden out of VS The First Lady to victory, earning $4,828 in the 20-entry class. Denver was bred by Capall Quarter Horses and is owned by Katie Van Slyke.
Reserve Champion in the DAC class and earning $3,319 was AmericanMachine, sired by Machine Made out of Flashin My Best, owned by Mallory Menard and shown by Kay Jo Zuidema.
Earning Limited Champion honors and third place overall was Pop Lock N Drop Itt, sired by Ima Platinum Dream out of WW Shes Certain, owned by Taylor Punt and shown by Dillon Hatten.
“The (sponsoring) Jacobs family and the exhibitors really seem to like the class,” Galyean said. “It’s a great opportunity for horses that haven’t been shown much in the first part of the year to come and show for a substantial purse.”
Galyean said he thought another highlight of this year’s show was the addition of the 1D, 2D and 3D Western Pleasure classes, a contest divided according to the lifetime earnings of participating riders.
“I think it’s a good format and I feel strongly that we will conduct a class like it again next year and possibly even add a Non-Pro 3D as well,” he said. “It was really successful and we like basing the class on the riders that are at the show’s lifetime earnings. I thought it went really well.”
In only its second year, the Back To Berrien Challenge, a class designed to reward participants just for having fun, drew five entries. The class was judged 50% on Bridleless
sss
Aaron Moses (pictured on the opposite page) rode First Thingz First to a win in the DAC $10,000 added $2,500 Novice Horse Western Pleasure class, collecting a check for $4,828. On this page (top) Jamie Hartman rides WellThereYouGo to a win in the Bridleless Pleasure portion of The Challenge class at the Back To Berrien Futurity. Aaron Moses won the Barrel Racing portion to clinch the overall championship riding First Thingz First.
Moses rode First Thingz First to a win in that class in addition to the DAC Western Pleasure class. They won the Barrel Racing portion of the class while WellThereYouGo, owned by Renee Norleen and shown by Jamie Hartman, won the Bridleless Pleasure section.
“The Challenge class was really fun again this year,” Galyean said. “It will be back next year but we might look at changing up the format some.”
Other 2025 Back To Berrien Futurity winners include: Longe Line
Open Western Longe Line (15 shown) – Champion: Wicked Wilma (Makin Me Willy Wild x Mega Hot), owned by Jennifer Hagen, shown by Kathie Kennedy, $771.
Non-Pro Western Longe Line (21 shown) – Champion: Wicked Wilma (Makin Me Willy Wild x Mega Hot), bred by Deborah Cook, owned and shown by Jennifer Hagen, $860.
Open Hunter Longe Line (10 shown) – Champion: Bigger The Better, shown by Anthony Leier.
Non-Pro Hunter Longe Line (12 shown) – Champion: Livin On White Claws, (Allocate Your Assets x All I Ever Wanted), bred by Gemma Kaye-Hudson, owned and shown by Tiffany Riehm, $732.80.
Western Pleasure
3-Year-Old Limited Open Western Pleasure (13 shown) – Champion: Saltt Life (Machine Made x Krymsun Annie Mation), owned by Crawford Quarter Horses, shown by Noah MacAskill, $2,694.40.
$1,000 Novice Rider/$1,000 Novice Horse 3-Year-Old Western Pleasure (7 shown) – Champion: Saltt Life (Machine Made x Krymsun Annie Mation), owned by s
Pleasure and 50% on Barrel Racing.
Crawford Quarter Horses, shown by Noah MacAskill; $724.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro 50 & Over Western Pleasure (5 shown) – Champion: Jesse Jaames (Machine Made x On The Front Row), owned and shown by Libby Trucco; $724.
Limited Non-Pro 4-Year-Old NonPro Western Pleasure (17 shown) –Champion: This Cowboys Mine (The Lopin Machine x Suddens Leadin Lady), owned and shown by Alicia Matthias, $792.40.
Color All Age Western Pleasure (5 shown) – Champion: Well There You Go (Certainly A Vision x Miss Good N Red Dee), owned by Renee Norleen, shown by Jamie Hartman, $720.
Novice Non-Pro Western Pleasure (10 shown) – Champion: Tequila And Taco Bar (GoodCowboy Margarita x A Piquant Pepper), owned and shown by Kylie Craven, $732.80.
3-Year-Old & Over $2,500 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure (14 shown) – Champion: Ten Kinda Southern (Its A Southern Thing x KM Perfect Ten), owned by Gumz Farms, shown by Shannon Holbin.
$1,000 Rider All Age Western Pleasure (18 shown) – Champion: Saltt Life (Machine Made x Krymsun Annie Mation), owned by Crawford Quarter Horses, shown by Noah MacAskill, $938.
$5,000 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure (7 shown) – Champion: ChromeDoubt (No Doubt Im Lazy x Look Who’s Ready), owned by Shane & Darla Leavell, shown by Gaven Young, $2,852.
$2,500 Limited Horse Limited Rider Western Pleasure (7 shown) – Champion: Lady Mamalade (The Lopin Machine x My Mama Said So), owned by Angela Wade, shown by Miranda Klein, $2,587.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure (13 shown) – Champion: Bottle Service (An Absolute Martini x Secrete Dream), owned by Jason & Samantha Stein, shown by Brayden Stein, $2,656.
3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure (9 shown) – Champion: Bottle Service (An Absolute Martini x Secrete Dream), owned by Jason & Samantha Stein, shown by Brayden
Stein, $2,656.
Limited Open 4 & Over Western Pleasure (16 shown) – Champion: Good Miss Breeze (Cool Breeze x Good Miss Sunny), owned by Lana Markway, shown by Mark Katafiasz, $767.
50 & Over Western Pleasure (14 shown) – Champion: The Cooki Monster (Machine Made x A Cookie For Certain), owned by Capital Quarter Horses, LLC, shown by Susan Roberts, $2,684.
$2,500 Limited Horse 4 & Over Non-Pro Western Pleasure (10 shown) –Champion: Shez Custom Made (Machine Made x Custom Ride), owned and shown by Michelle Sipiorski, $737.
Non-Pro Maturity 4 & Over Western Pleasure (7 shown) – Champion: The Cooki Monster (Machine Made x A Cookie For Certain), owned by Capital Quarter Horses, by Susan Roberts, $712.
Youth Western Pleasure (4 shown) – Champion: Bottle Service (An Absolute Martini x Secrete Dreams), owned by Jason & Samantha Stein, shown by Brayden Stein, $693.
Small Fry Western Pleasure (2 shown) – Champion: KM Ready To Roll (The Lopin Machine x KM TheNextBestthing), owned by Katie Meyer, shown by Macy Meyer; Reserve: WellThereYouGo (Certainly A
Vision x Miss Good N Red Dee), owned by Renee Norleen, shown by SJ Dowdy.
4-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure (11 shown) – Champion: Certainly Persistent (The Lopin Machine x A Certain Illusion), owned by Richard & Betty Jo Carr, shown by Jay Starnes, $697.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure (5 shown) – Champion: The Breeze (Mr. Zippos Good Bar x Invite Me Breeze), owned by Drew/Brooke DeBuhr, shown by Brooke DeBuhr, $693.
5-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure (9 shown) – Champion: The Cooki Monster (Machine Made x A Cookie For Certain), owned by Capital Quarter Horses, shown by RJ King.
3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure (9 shown) – Champion: Ten Kinda Southern (Its A Southern Thing x KM Perfect Ten), owned by Gumz Farms, shown by Shannon Holbin, $742.
4-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure (9 shown) – Champion: Certainly Persistent (The Lopin Machine x A Certain Illusion), owned by Richard & Betty Jo Carr, shown by Richard Carr, $697.
Michigan/Indiana/Illinois/Ohio Non-Pro Owner/Rider Western Pleasure (9 shown) – Champion: This Cowboys Mine (The Lopin Machine x Suddens Leading Lady), owned and shown by Alicia Matthies, $694.
Hunter Under Saddle
Novice Horse Hunter Under Saddle (7 shown) – Champion: Ok Will Do (Good Better Best x WhenOnlyTheBestWillDo), owned and shown by Farley McLendon, $724.
4-Year-Old Non-Pro Maturity Hunter Under Saddle (13 shown) – Champion: The Canadian Club (The Mile High Club x One Pretty Mechanic), owned and shown by Courtney Suthoff, $809.60.
3-Year-Old Novice Horse Hunter Under Saddle (6 shown)
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On the opposite page (clockwise from top): Briggs Britton competing in the Lead Line class; Brayen Stein and Bottle Service; and Brook DeBuhr and The Breeze. On this page (left), Jennifer Hagen and Wicked Wilma, winners of the NonPro Western Longe Line; and Elizabeth Munroe and ItsaAfterHours Thing.
– Champion: Speakeasyy (One Hot Krymsun x She Gets The Blues), owned by Amanda Smith, shown by Farley McLendon, $693.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle (8 shown) –Champion: Smoooth Kriminal (Outlaw Enterprise x Look N Hot Sister), owned and shown by Tali Terlizzi, $676.60.
4-Year-Old Open Hunter Under Saddle (5 shown) –Champion: The Canadian Club (The Mile High Club x One Pretty Mechanic), owned by Courtney Suthoff, shown by Katy Jo Zuidema, $2,696.
3-Year-Old Limited Open Hunter Under Saddle (8 shown) – Champion: Speakeasyy (One Hot Krymsun x She Gets The Blues), owned by Amanda Smith, shown by Nicole Giumenti, $748.
$1,000 Rider All Age Hunter Under Saddle (12 shown) –Champion: More Than Better (Good Better Best x WhenOnlyTheBestWillDo), owned by Ashley Sheffield, shown by Rande Pittman, $752.
$2,500 Limited Horse 4-Year-Old & Over Hunter Under Saddle (12 shown) – Champion: Ultimately Solid (The Ultimate Fancy x Fade To Blue), owned by Karen Graham, by Dawn Baker, $700.
Non-Pro 50 & Over Hunter Under Saddle (4 shown) –Champion: Itsa AfterHours Thing (Its A Southern Thing x Good After Hours), owned and shown by Elizabeth Munroe, $693.
4 & Over Open Hunter Under Saddle (9 shown) – Champion: Jus Be Good (Good Better Best x Jus Sayin), owned by Amanda Smith, shown by Farley McLendon, $697.
3-Year-Old Open Hunter Under Saddle (9 shown) –Champion: Im Al About The Best (Good Better Best x Al About It), owned by Sara Jackson Vance, shown by Amber Pickard, $2,756.
Special Events
3D Open Western Pleasure (25 shown) – Champion: The Cooki Monster (Machine Made x A Cookie For Certain), owned by Capital Quarter Horses, shown by RJ King, $3,000.
2D Open Western Pleasure (10 shown) – Champion: Good Miss Breeze (Cool Breeze x Cool Miss Sunny), owned by Vicki Pugh, shown by Jamie Hartman, $3,000.
1D Open Western Pleasure (5 shown) – Champion: WellThereYouGo, owned by Renee Norleen, shown by Mark Katafiasz.
Organizers said it seemed like everyone at the show enjoyed themselves and plans are already underway for a Back To Berrien in 2026.
Exhibitors at AQHA Level 1 East, West take home championship titles
Text Corrine S. Borton & AQHA Photos Shane Rux
When Nicolle Connor, of Keensburg, Colorado jogged Vitals Are Back (Addy) into the arena to compete in the Rookie Amateur Western Pleasure at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Level 1 East Championships she did not have a complicated strategy.
“I was just happy to be showing,” Connor said. “Addy is really easy to ride, once I set her up on the rail she knows her job.”
When the judging was complete Connor and Vitals Are Back were declared champions in the 34 entry class.
“I competed with a lot of good horses,” Connor said.
“I think what sets Addy apart from othersis that she’s very easy, pretty behind and she jogs really soft.”
Vitals Are Back is a 2020 chestnut mare, sired by Vitalized out of Tip It On Back.
Connor has owned her since she was just a 2-year-old.
“She’s very sweet and easy to show,” she admitted. Connor credits her trainers, Becky George and Colton Pylman with having them both prepared to compete.
“I wouldn’t have been able to be here without my trainers,” Connor said. “They have helped Addy and myself out tremendously.”
Connor said she thinks the AQHA Level 1 Championship Show is a lot of fun.
“I would advise others to go to the show,” she urged.
“Everyone was so welcoming, I had a great time getting to do what I love. “
The AQHA hosted the East Level 1 Championships April 21-27 in Wilmington, Ohio. There was an increase from last year to 5,543 entries, 896 exhibitors, 818 horses and 412 first-time ex-
The West Level 1 Championships followed May 19-24 following the Arizona Quarter Horse Association Pinnacle Circuit at the South Point Arena & Equestrian Center in Las
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On the opposite page (clockwise from upper left): Nicolle Connor and Vitals Are Back take a victory lap after winning the Rookie Amateur Western Pleasure at the East Championships; Make Me A Cowboy and Kimberly Ann Guenther, winners of the Amateur Hunter Under Saddle at the West Championships; Eye Carumba and Ava L. Haun, winners of the Walk-Trot Equitation at the East Championships; and A Complete Machine and Madelyn MacLarren, winners of the Youth Showmanship 14-18 at the East Championships. On this page (clockwise from top): Brooklynn Reid showing in the Leadline at the West Championship; UB40 and Daphne Stocker, winners of the Youth Ranch Riding 13 & Under at the West Championships; Martinis In The Dark and Delaney Davis, winners of the Amateur Performance Halter Geldings at the West Championships; and Good To Strut and Jeff Morgenstern, winners of the Amateur Select Trail at the East Championships.
Vegas. The show saw nearly 2,800 entries, 453 exhibitors, 469 horses and 163 exhibitors showing for the first time.
Level 1 Champion of Champions
All exhibitors who competed in the core Level 1 classes at each of the Level 1 Championships earned invitations to compete in the AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions classes at their respective world shows. Core classes include Showmanship, Horsemanship, Western Pleasure, Trail, Ranch Riding, Hunter Under Saddle and Equitation.
During each of the Level 1 Championships, AQHA Professional Horsemen volunteered their time to give numerous free Ride the Pattern clinics, presented by Nutrena. These clinics gave exhibitors and spectators the perfect opportunity to learn how AQHA Professional Horsemen would approach a specific class or pattern in Level 1 competition.
The AQHA Level 1 Championships feature Small-Fry, walktrot, Rookie and Level 1 classes. The shows offer a variety of events and activities for competitors, friends, family and spectators alike to take part in throughout the show, including free Nutrena Ride the Pattern clinics taught by AQHA Professional Horsemen.
The Level 1 Championships are intended for exhibitors to learn and grow in the show arena while sharpening their horsemanship skills. The shows provide a welcoming environment for AQHA members to be showcased in a championship arena and to compete to earn top prizes for their dedication, worth over $500,000 in jackpot and prizes.
For more information, including complete results, visit www.aqha.com/level1championships.
EQUINE PRODUCTS by Katherine Jarve
What to consider when determining who, if anyone, is liable for faulty equipment
Saddles, bridles, and cinches are necessary equipment when riding and showing horses. Sometimes this equipment is defective or simply breaks. For example, if a cinch breaks while you are riding, it is likely that the saddle (and you) will fall off the horse. The question becomes is anyone legally liable for defective or broken equipment? The answer may be “yes” depending on the facts of your case.
Products Liability law. In the equine industry, a claim for products liability may arise when someone suffers a personal injury because of a defective product. This can lead to potential lawsuits against manufacturers, distributors, and/or sellers of a faulty product. Many states allow claims against any individual or business within the supply chain. Typically, products liability cases involve the following:
• Manufacturing defects. The product was incorrectly manufactured and, as a result, was sold in a dangerous condition. This could occur if a bridle falls apart due to inadequate stitching.
• Design defects. The particular product was improperly designed for its intended use. This refers to a defect in the design itself – not in the manufacturing process. A defectively designed product is unreasonably safe for its intended use, even when used properly.
equipment. It is important to understand that, depending on the facts, “Equine Activity Liability Laws” may come into play. Nearly every state has enacted some form of an equine activity liability law, which limits the liability of horse owners and professionals for the injuries resulting from the “inherent risks” of equine activities. The laws recognize that horse riding is inherently dangerous and unpredictable. These laws may provide a defense to limit liability in the event of an accident. Equine liability laws may limit your liability, but they will not immunize you for your own negligence or carelessness.
Generally, inherent activities include things such as unpredictable horse behavior (refusing a jump, loud noises, sudden movement, etc.); general surface conditions (i.e. muddy conditions); collisions with objects (i.e. a show horse running into a
In the equine industry, a claim for products liability may arise when someone suffers a personal injury because of a defective product.
• Inadequate warnings. The particular product did not contain proper warnings or enough information about potential risks associated with its use. For example, a helmet manufacturer fails to warn about the importance of proper chin strap adjustment and a rider is injured because the helmet comes off.
• Breach of warranty. The particular product fails to meet the promises or guarantees made about its quality, performance, or use in an express or implied warranty.
The laws of each state vary greatly; however, there are several defenses that typically apply in a products liability claim. Common defenses include assumption of the risk and misuse of the product. Additionally, alteration of a product may be a defense to a products liability claim.
A causal seller (i.e., an Amateur selling a used work saddle on Facebook marketplace) is not generally held liable in a products liability claim. However, if you are in the business of buying and selling used tack, then the answer may be different.
Negligence. Some states permit lawsuits for faulty equipment based upon negligence theories, which is the failure to exercise reasonable care. Negligence claims are not limited to those individuals and companies within the supply chain. They can also be brought against anyone involved in the equine activity giving rise to the injury, including those who provide the
fence, etc.); and the inappropriate actions of the rider. Typically, liability would likely not be limited when the horse trainer provided faulty equipment (i.e. a duct taped bridle) to a rider who is then injured.
What to do after an accident. If you are injured as a result of a defective product or equipment, you should seek medical attention immediately. Next, you should immediately preserve the equipment. Should you decide to pursue legal action, the product will be vital evidence to your case and will be reviewed by attorneys and experts in the field. You should also take pictures and videos of the equipment as well as your injuries. Gather all information related to the product. If possible, locate purchase receipts, all packaging, and instructions or warnings that accompanied the product when you purchased it. This will be important if you are considering legal action.
Katherine Jarve is a partner at the Marlton, New Jersey law firm of Jarve Kaplan Granato Starr, LLC. She is licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and maintains a practice in personal injury and civil litigation, including equine related issues. Katherine spent her childhood competing on the national AQHA show circuit. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. If you have a specific legal question or problem, consult with an experienced equine law attorney. Questions, comments or suggestions can be e-mailed to kjarve@nj-triallawyers.com.
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Ohio competitor’s journey with horses has been filled with growth, memories
Text
Corrine S. Borton Photos Kirstie Marie & Courtney B. Ament
After competing at a local fair when she was just 13 or 14, Ohio Amateur competitor Kathleen Spencer learned what many in the horse industry know and understand well. It’s really tough to walk away.
“I’ve loved horses for as long as I can remember,” Spencer said. “I started taking riding lessons when I was 10, and after a few years, I wanted more, so I joined our local 4-H club.”
Spencer’s parents leased her a horse and just like that, she was hooked.
“Honestly, none of us had any idea what we were getting into,” Spencer admitted. “I started going to local open shows and eventually connected with a trainer.”
Rather quickly, Spencer made the leap into American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) competition and never looked back.
“It’s been an amazing journey filled with learning, growth and unforgettable memories,” she said. “I truly can’t imagine my life without horses.”
In the summer before she started high school at Catholic Central in Springfield, Spencer teamed with What An Assett (Scooby), a 2010 bay gelding by Absolute Investment out of Asset Affair and started competing in all-around events.
“I absolutely adored him, and to this day, my parents still regret selling him, especially my mom, who always says he’s the horse she wishes she could ride and take lessons on,” she said.
But by her senior year, Spencer’s heart had shifted from all-around classes to focusing on Western Pleasure. To help her achieve that goal, Batmans Loping Lady (Robin) was purchased and just a few months later success came when Spencer and the 2012 sorrel mare by Batt Man out of Quite Radical, won the Level 1 Youth Western Pleasure 14-18 at the 2018 Quarter Horse Congress.
What made the win even more special to Spencer was that it was the first time she had ever placed at the Congress.
“It was such an incredible honor and winning it on Robin
made it unforgettable,” she said. “That win will always hold a huge place in my heart.”
And so will Robin.
“Robin is the horse who truly sparked my passion for Western Pleasure,” Spencer said. “She gave me the confidence, the joy and the drive to chase big dreams in the show pen, and she ignited my competitive spirit in the discipline I love most.”
Not long after winning the Congress, Covid struck and Spencer found herself at a crossroads. By now she was a student at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio, and shows across the United States started shutting down. It was then that Spencer moved to Kenny and Ashley Lakins but she actually thought, at that point, that she was done showing horses.
“My college was the only one in Ohio still fully online in the fall of 2020, so I kept showing just to stay busy,” she said.
And that’s when fate, and a sweet chestnut gelding that goes by the name of Nash, stepped in.
“My dad became really interested in young horses and in 2021, we bought our first baby after I sold Robin,” Spencer said. “The idea was perfect: I’d go to college while the baby grew up, and we’d be ready to go when I graduated.”
But, as horses often teach us, things don’t always go as planned. That baby didn’t work out, nor did the next. The Spencer family decided instead to hit pause on the babies and try to find something more ready to show. In April 2024, they bought a horse that was a little older but sadly, he wasn’t the right fit either.
“After selling him at The Premier (in Kentucky), I was heartbroken and unsure if my show dreams were fading again,” Spencer admitted.
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Kathleen Spencer is pictured on the opposite page with her show partner, Countray Grammer. On this page Spencer is pictured with (left to right) Nash; her family, including parents, Tess and Jack Spencer and brother, John at her college graduation; and scuba diving with a friend in Aruba. s
Later that same night, Spencer got a call from Ashley Lakins that would change everything.
“She said, ‘I think we found one,’” Spencer recalled. “She and Kenny had been looking when Kelby and Kaitlin Hutchinson mentioned a horse named Countray Grammer, sired by Its A Southern Thing out of Eyez A Blazin. They planned to bring him to the Back To Berrien Futurity in June for us to try.”
Spencer did her research and discovered Countray Grammer had been Reserve Champion at the Quarter Horse Congress and at the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) World Show. While she tried to be realistic, she could not help but feel hopeful.
“I was in Florida on a birthday trip when Ashley sent me videos and said, ‘You need to get here, now,’” Spencer said. “When I arrived and saw Nash walk out of the stall, my mom and I were stunned. He was HUGE! I looked at her and said, ‘Oh my gosh, he’s a mammoth.’”
But the moment Spencer climbed aboard for the test ride, everything changed.
“He was smooth, soft and unbelievably slow in the best way,” she said. “After one lap each way, I looked at everyone and said, ‘I think I found my horse’ and I meant it with my whole heart.”
Spencer says Countray Grammer is truly a once-in-a-lifetime horse and that she’s blessed that she gets to own him.
“Everything happens for a reason,” she said.
These days, Spencer is putting that Communications degree she earned, along with a minor in Business Administration to good use as a closer for a real estate company. She lives in downtown Cleveland but spends a lot of time visiting her boyfriend in Washington, D.C.
It’s called Tables & Stables,” she explained. “I had to sneak my love for horses in there, of course.”
“I always joke that I pay for an apartment I’m never in, since I’m constantly on the go, balancing horse shows and a long-distance relationship,” she said.
When she is not working or riding, Spencer loves spending time with friends, skiing and traveling. Her favorite vacation to date was a trip she took with her family to Big Sky, Montana, in 2022.
“I like to take my time to get down the mountain though, nice and slow,” she said. “It is a beautiful state and I would love to go back.”
You might be surprised to learn that Spencer also absolutely loves to cook.
“It brings me so much joy, and I even started a little Instagram account just for fun to share my kitchen creations.
Kathleen Spencer with Countray Grammer and their trainers, Ashley and Kenny Lakins, at the Madness Circuit, where they won the Maturity Non-Pro Western Pleasure.
Spencer has set a lot of goals for herself. At work, she’d like to earn a promotion soon. And in the show pen...she has her sights set on a golden globe. But she’s careful not to get too far ahead of herself.
“One of the most powerful pieces of advice I ever got was from a career coach who asked me, ‘Why does it matter?’ As someone who puts a lot of pressure on herself, that question has become a reset button for me,” she explained. “I’m incredibly competitive. I want to go into the pen and give it everything I have. I want to win, and I want to be proud of the ride I laid down. But when nerves or doubts creep in, I remind myself: Why does it matter? I show because I love it. I’m here to do my best, not to worry about what anyone else thinks. That shift helps me stay focused, confident, and present with my horse.”
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, Editor, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com. ttt
AQHA annual event draws 2,470 entries; awards $475,000 in purse and prizes
Text Corrine S. Borton and AQHA Photos Shane Rux
Marcy Martin, of Arlington, Nebraska, decided that this year, at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships held June 15-21, in Amarillo, Texas, she would push herself and her show partner, Yello Wolf, to plus more maneuvers in the Senior Ranch Trail and that strategy paid off.
“We improved our score and ended top 20 in a big class of Open riders and seasoned horses,” Martin said.
But that is only the tip of the iceberg. Martin and Yello Wolf, a 2015 palomino gelding, sired by Cisco Skip Premium out of Shinngcolonelfreckl, competed in Amateur Ranch Riding, Ranch Trail and Ranch Conformation.
They also showed in the Open Senior Ranch Riding, Open Senior Ranch Trail and Open Senior Ranch Conformation.
“I showed him in all the classes,”
Martin explained. “We won the Open Senior Conformation and then went right back in and won the Amateur Conformation.
“Wolf is the most balanced horse I’ve ever had,”Martin said. “I think he fits the mold of a versatile Quarter Horse.”
Martin and Yello Wolf were also top ten in Amateur Ranch Trail and top 20 in the Open Ranch Trail.
“I was one of only a few Amateurs in the Open Trail,” she said.
Martin says Yello Wolf is very well trained and easy to prepare.
“He is solid every time you get on him,” she said. “We try and do other things, like Roping, Trail riding, etc. to keep him (and me) from getting burned out.”
Martin has owned Yello Wolf for six years now and says he is very laid back.
“ I always joke and say that in the
Ranch Trail his favorite maneuver is the ground tie because it requires minimal effort on his part,” she quipped. “Wolf is definitely quirky and has a funny personality.”
This is the fifth time Martin has competed at a Versatility Ranch Horse World Championship Show
“It’s my favorite show of the year,” she said. “My first year going I started in Level 1 classes and now show in the Amateur and Open. There’s a level for everyone. AQHA goes out of their way to make it enjoyable for everyone.
The 2025 Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships and concurrent ranch horse events, held June 15-21 at the Tri-State Exposition, drew over 340 exhibitors; more than 380 horses; and over 2,470 entries between the AQHA VRH World; AQHA Ranching Heritage Challenge Finals; and AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships, presented by the Four Sixes Ranch. The combined purse and prizes of the three premier shows was over $475,000.
The show featured a variety of events, including Ranch Cutting, Ranch Trail, Ranch Conformation, Ranch Reining,
On the opposite page pictured clockwise from upper left: A scene from the Versatility Ranch Horse World Championship; Tallon Noland and Cats Packin Heat, winners of the Rookie Youth Ranch Reining; Parker Ralston and Holdontothefeelin, winners of the Youth Ranch Cow Work; Lavert Avent and TCR Wild Cat, winners of the Junior Ranch Riding; and Marcy Martin and Yello Wolf competing in the Senior Ranch Trail. On this page, pictured clockwise from upper left: Marcy Martin and Yello Wolf, winners of the Amateur Ranch Conformation; a young competitor getting a leg up; a competitor getting a little help with her number.
Team Roping, Ranch Riding, Ranch Cow Work, Working Ranch Horse, Steer Stopping and Breakaway Roping.
“This event showcases exactly what we want to see in ranch-bred horses,” said Karen McCuistion, senior director of member programs. “Competing in five different performance classes, while also being judged on conformation, demonstrates the talent and versatility of the American Quarter Horse Hosting this show in Amarillo, in the heart of Texas ranch country and the home of the American Quarter Horse Association, makes it especially meaningful.”
Qualifying has already started for 2026, so don’t miss the opportunity to earn your spot at next year’s event held at the Tri State Exposition in Amarillo. Visit www.AQHA.com for complete results. ttt
In addition to the nine VRH world champion titles, 54 VRH class championships, 22 Cattle Level 1 Championships and 35 Ranching Heritage Challenge championships, the event also recognized the top AQHA Ranching Heritage-bred horses.
BUZZ
ON THE WEB
(www.instrideedition.com)
(IN) LIFE
Longtime horsewoman Patty Baker of Olympia, Washington, was honored June 26, with the Markel/APHA Professional Horsewoman of the Year award.
Since age 8, Baker knew she had a love for training horses – her father bought the budding equestrienne an unbroke 2-year-old and turned her loose. Baker jumped feetfirst into her training journey and now has been a professional horsewoman for more than 40 years. From 4-H and open show exhibitors to world-champion competitors in Paint and Appaloosa breed shows, Baker has helped mold the next generation of horses and riders. Baker runs Baker Training Stable LLC, a full-service facility in Olympia, Washington. Two decades ago, daughters Monica Baker-Webb and Kara Baker-Whitsell, joined the business, and the trio has diligently grown the business. In addition to training young horses, giving lessons, competing and giving clinics, the Bakers give back through community service projects, coaching local 4-H and high-school equestrian teams, and more. Baker is president of the Washington State Paint Horse Club, a role she’s held for eight years. She’s also served as an APHA state director and committee member.
(IN) DEATH
A CERTAIN VINO, 15-TIME AQHA WORLD CHAMPION/29-TIME CONGRESS CHAMPION THE MOST DECORATED WESTERN PLEASURE HORSE OF
A Certain Vino, the most decorated Western Pleasure horse of all time, passed away in June at the age of 22.
Foaled in 2003, the brown gelding sired by Certain Potential and out of Dotevita was bred by Tim and Lou Petty and owned by Lee Reeve of Garden City, Kansas. Over the course of an extraordinary career, A Certain Vino made a lasting impact on the western performance horse industry, capturing hearts and dominating in the show pen.
Named NSBA Horse of the Year in 2008, Vino amassed a staggering 33 NSBA World Championship titles in Western Pleasure and Western Riding—more than any other horse in the asso-
ciation’s history. He was shown to these victories by some of the sport’s most respected names, including Karen Hornick, Darcy Reeve, Stanley Ryan, Lou Petty, Gordy Wadds, Kelley Reeve, and Charlie Cole.
Over his career, he earned 803.25 NSBA points and $249,016.50 in NSBA earnings, contributing to more than $400,000 in total lifetime earnings. In addition to his NSBA success, A Certain Vino claimed 15 AQHA World Champion titles and 29 All American Quarter Horse Congress Champion titles.
In 2018, A Certain Vino was honored with induction into the NSBA Hall of Fame in the Show Horse category,
RESEARCHERS HAVE DESIGNED NON-INVASIVE SCREENING PROCESS
UF RESEARCHERS ARE RECRUITING HORSES FOR ARTHRITIS PAIN STUDY
University of Florida researchers are looking to collaborate with horse owners on a study about arthritis pain.
American Quarter Horse Hall of Famer Dr. Charles W. "Doc" Graham, DVM. Dr. Graham, 92, of Elgin, Texas, passed away June 21. In addition to the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, Dr. Graham also served as AQHA Director at Large. Dr. Graham earned his veterinary degree from Texas A&M and established founded the Elgin Veterinary Clinic and the Southwest Stallion Station, with the help of Dr. W.H. Cardwell.
UF/IFAS, the UF College of Veterinary Medicine, the UF College of Dentistry and the UF biomedical engineering department are searching for horses that can participate in a field study focused on osteoarthritis, a key cause of swelling, heat and pain in joints. Just like in people, arthritis in horses commonly results from frequent, repetitive high-impact stress on the joint, such as from activities like racing and jumping – and early intervention is critical.
The researchers have designed a non-invasive screening process for horses to create a more comprehensive, objective method to measure joint pain, said Samantha Brooks, UF/IFAS associate professor of equine physiology and genetics. If a method can be developed for horses – patients who inherently cannot talk about their pain – then a similar approach will hopefully work for people who have joint pain, rather than relying on the current, subjective pain scales, she said.
“We tend to treat symptomatically when horses show obvious clinical signs of pain, but if we can get a detect subtle
joint pain sooner, we might be able to start pain treatments in time to better preserve joint function, and tailor that treatment for each horse,” Brooks said. “The researchers are looking to work with horse owners whose horses are in Central Florida and have already been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, especially if it affects the fetlock joint.”
For additional information on the upcoming arthritis pain study or to participate you can email Meredith Bauer, Senior Public Relations Specialist at the University of Florida at meredithbauer@ufl.edu.
TETANUS by Gabby van
Galen, DVM
Understanding
the symptoms, proper treatment protocols key to beating this neurological disease
Tetanus is a neurological disease caused by a potent neurotoxin produced by the anaerobic, spore-forming bacterium Clostridium tetani. While tetanus can affect humans and other domestic animals, the horse is considered particularly sensitive to tetanus neurotoxins.
Clinical Signs: Clinical signs of tetanus arise from the C. tetani neurotoxin’s ability to block inhibitory signals in the spinal cord, leading to painful muscle spasms and rigidity. Clinical signs vary from mild to severe, are exacerbated by sound or other sensory stimulus, and can rapidly progress to death. Clinical signs noted in more than 50% of affected horses include:
• Stiffness and difficulty ambulating
• Wide-based “saw horse” stance
•Agitation
• Third eyelid protrusion
• Trismus (lock jaw)
• Extended neck
• Elevated tail
• Dysphagia
• Anorexia
• Abnormal (decreased or absent) gut sounds
• Abnormal (decreased or absent) defecation
the incubation period is believed to depend on the inoculation dose, the extent of necrotic tissue (or anaerobic environment), and the distance of the site of inoculation to the central nervous system.
Risk Factors: Risk factors include:
• Absent or inadequate tetanus vaccination history
• Young horses ( less than 4 years of age)
• Foals born to unvaccinated mares or with a history of untreated failure of passive transfer
• Physical sites that allow for anaerobic bacterial entry and growth: wounds, hoof abscesses, castration sites, retained fetal membranes, and umbilical infections
Transmission: C. tetani is ubiquitous in soil and is present in the gastrointestinal tract and feces of horses, resulting in an
While
tetanus can affect humans and other domestic animals, the horse is considered particularly sensitive to tetanus neurotoxins.
While most affected horses will have normal mucous membranes, normal rectal temperature, tachycardia, and tachypnea, some may present with congested mucous membranes, low or normal heart rates, normal respiratory rates, hypothermia, and hyperthermia. Cardiac arrhythmias may also occur. Autonomic nervous system disturbances observed in humans with tetanus have also been described in horses and foals, and may include severe tachycardia and excessive sweating, bradycardia in the face of painful muscle cramps, gastrointestinal impaction, diarrhea, and bladder dysfunction.
In severe cases, generalized muscle spasms progress to dyspnea, recumbency, seizures, and death. Mortality is generally high and literature reports non-survival in 25–75% of cases, with most reports describing mortality rates over 50%. Affected foals ( less than 6 months) often present recumbent and may display seizures. Foals presenting with signs of tetanus should be examined for umbilical infection, as this is a common site of entry. Foals have similar survival rates to adult horses.
Incubation Period: Incubation period can range from 1–43 days, and the initial site of inoculation may have healed by the time clinical signs of tetanus develop. The duration of
ever-present risk of exposure for horses. It survives in aerobic environments as spores, and the spores can germinate into a vegetative and toxin-producing bacterium when anaerobic conditions develop. Inoculation into deep penetrating wounds or other physical entry sites (e.g., umbilicus, postpartum uterus, etc.) allows for development of such an anaerobic environment as a result of compromised vascular supply or local tissue necrosis.
Tetanus is not considered contagious and does not spread between individuals.
Diagnostic Sampling, Testing and Handling: Diagnosis of tetanus is based on exclusion, and efforts should be made to rule out similarly presenting differentials (e.g., laminitis, pleuropneumonia, protrusion of the third eyelid due to chronic uveitis, rhabdomyolysis, hypocalcemia, viral encephalitis, hepatic encephalopathy, etc.)
A presumptive diagnosis is usually made based on the presence of the classical clinical signs of stiffness, trismus, and protrusion of the third eyelid, often in combination with a negative vaccination status and the identification of a wound or other physical entry point. Definitive diagnosis is difficult due to the challenges of demonstrating the presence of neurotoxins and the bacterium. However, laboratory techniques such as culture of C. tetani, gram stain smears from infected wounds,
TETANUS (continued)
or PCR to detect the C. tetani neurotoxin gene can be performed. It should be noted that false negatives are common, although positive results strongly support the diagnosis in horses with accompanying clinical signs. False positives can also occur, as the organism is widespread in the environment and can be present without causing tetanus.
C. tetani bacteremia has been described in humans, and foals with tetanus commonly suffer from sepsis. Thus, blood culture is recommended for affected foals as an aid to diagnosis.
Postmortem Findings: Tetanus does not cause specific gross or histopathological lesions. Necropsy may identify lesions that are a consequence of tetanus, such as trauma following violent spasms and seizures. A postmortem examination can aid to rule-out differentials.
Treatment: Treatment goals for tetanus include: Elimination of C. tetani as the source of toxin production
1.) Cleaning and debridement of the wound or inoculation site (if identified).
• Antimicrobial treatment: penicillin or metronidazole are the preferred antimicrobials. There are no clear differences in the outcomes of people affected by tetanus treated with penicillin or metronidazole.
2.) Neutralization of the circulating, unbound neurotoxin by tetanus antitoxin (TAT)
• Optimal administration route, dose, and length of duration of TAT therapy are currently unknown. Information regarding TAT in the literature includes: Typically administered IV or IM at a dose of 100–200 U/kg; and Daily administration for 1–9 days
• Intrathecal administration of TAT has been reported with variable success. To administer TAT intrathecally, remove 30–50 mL of CSF from the anesthetized patient and replace with equal volume TAT.
• If tetanus toxoid is given at the same time as TAT (for tetanus treatment or prevention), they should be administered in separate sites.
Note: There are currently no tetanus antitoxin (TAT) products labeled for horses. If practitioners administer TAT to horses for the prevention or treatment of tetanus, they should be aware that this represents an off-label use. Furthermore, TAT products not labeled for horses are unlikely to have been tested for Equine Parvovirus, the causative agent of viral hepatitis (Theiler’s Disease) in horses. Clinicians are advised to consider this risk when administering TAT, particularly if for preventative purposes.
3.) Muscle relaxation and analgesia
• Tetanus is a very painful disease due to the widespread muscle spasms. Measures should be taken to limit auditory, tactile, and visual stimulation as they can initiate painful muscle spasms.
• Additional measures may include padded stalls, dim lights, cotton ear plugs, and IV catheter placement to avoid
direct injections and oral medications.
• First-choice muscle relaxants: benzodiazepines (diazepam or midazolam) or phenothiazine (acepromazine or chlorpromazine).
• Additional drugs that can aid in muscle relaxation: alpha2-agonists, guaifenesin in recumbent animals, dantrolene, magnesium, methocarbamol, and barbiturates.
• Additional analgesics: NSAIDS and/or opioids.
4.) Supportive care
• Avoid secondary trauma: soft bedding, padded head and limb protection, artificial tears, and sedation.
• Wound care: including the initial wound and of the wounds that develop as a disease complication.
• Cardiovascular support: IV fluids if the horse cannot drink.
• Respiratory support: intranasal oxygen therapy can be needed if dyspnea develops.
• Digestive support: some horses can develop stasis, colic, or diarrhea, and treatment might be required for this.
• Nutrition: soft foods that are easy to swallow, tube feeding, IV glucose, and/or parenteral nutrition.
• Urinary support: some horses develop abnormal bladder function or can’t posture to urinate. Catheterization may be needed in these cases.
5.) Establishment of active immunity against neurotoxins
• Tetanus infection does not stimulate a durable immunity, and horses can get tetanus again after recovery.
• Tetanus toxoid should be administered to boost immunity.
Biosecurity Considerations: Tetanus is not contagious. However, biosecurity guidelines for animals affected by tetanus are related to the contagious nature and zoonotic potential of several differential diagnoses of acute onset of neurologic disease (e.g., rabies, Hendra, EHV myeloencephalopathy, and other viral equine encephalitis diseases). The geographical area will dictate how high the risk is for some of these potentially dangerous viral encephalites. Until these differentials are ruled out, or tetanus is confirmed through presence of the classical clinical signs in the face of a negative vaccination status and presence of inoculation site, it is strongly advised to act on the side of caution by wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and isolating the horse.
Gaby van Galen started her career as an equine intern in private practice in the Netherlands immediately after graduation from the University of Ghent, Belgium in 2003. Following this internship she got a residency position in equine internal medicine at the University of Liege, Belgium and passed the exam of the European College of Equine Internal Medicine in 2009. She also obtained a master in veterinary science degree and a PhD on the subject of atypical myopathy.
The
ASSOCIATIONS
JAMIE HOWARD APPOINTED
(IN) APHA NEWS
The American Paint Horse Association (APHA) Board of Directors recently elected Jamie Howard as the next president-elect. The president-elect is selected from and elected by the existing members on the APHA Board of Directors. Howard will take the reins as president-elect in March and take office as president in 2027. Howard, of Wayne, Oklahoma, has been part of the APHA Board of Directors since 2022. He was elected to his second three-year term on the Board of Directors in March 2025; his current spot on the board will be filled as part of the Board of Directors election in March 2026.
A lifetime APHA member, Howard is a Paint Horse owner, breeder and racing advocate. He’s served as chairman of the Racing and Breed Integrity advisory committees, was a member of the disciplinary committee and was chairman of the 2020 Presidential Commission.
COLOR BREED CONGRESS
(IN) PtHA NEWS
Plans are already in place for the 2025 Color Breed Congress which will take place Oct. 31 to Nov. 8 in Tulsa, Oklahoma with PHBA, ABRA, NSBA and All Breed Ranch Horse classes. The Pinto Horse Association (PtHA) will offer cash challenge classes and provide venue for the Cash for Color Futurity and Go For the Gold Futurity classes. PtHA will give over $200,000 in prizes. High point awards for each discipline from Gist buckles, Perri’s Halters, Tioga Territory jackets, chairs and more will be handed out. The PtHA Heritage Foundation will sponsor the annual cookout one evening and welcome all exhibitors and family to join. For additional information on the Color Breed Congress visit www.pinto.org.
The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Animal Welfare Commission recently made several welfare-related recommendations to the AQHA Executive Committee. At its May meeting, the Executive Committee reviewed the recommendations and approved the following to be implemented immediately:
1.) To form a task force to develop and implement a plan to expand performance alteration testing to appropriate shows throughout the year.
2.) To continue performance alteration testing at AQHA Championship shows.
3.) To implement the voluntary use of ISO compliant (15digit) microchips or additional forms of permanent identification of horses at 2026 AQHA Championship Shows. To require in 2027 that all horses entering an AQHA Championship Show be microchipped or identified with another form of permanent identification for the purposes of testing and biosecurity.
4.) To keep the World Show Vaccination/Biosecurity/ Identification Task Force in place to develop a biosecurity plan for AQHA Championship Shows.
5.) To recommend that no horse may be treated with Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) within the 24 hours prior to competition with the following requirements:
• ESWT must be administered by licensed veterinarian within such state or with a written prescription by a licensed veterinarian that has a valid Client-Patient-Veterinarian relationship.
• AQHA Medication Report Form must be filed within one hour of administration on each case per AQHA Rule VIO403.
• A log must be kept by the administering party documenting date, total number of shocks per anatomical region and the horse’s registered name and number.
• ESWT application to the back and dorsal pelvis area may be administered by licensed veterinarian within such state or with a written prescription by a licensed veterinarian that has a valid Client-Patient-Veterinarian relationship within the 24-hour prohibited period, but no closer than 12 hours prior to competing. If sedation is required, it must be administered 24 hours prior to competition by a licensed veterinarian and will be considered therapeutic and a Medication Report Form (MRF) must be filed, per AQHA Rule VIO403.
• This rule will go into effect Jan. 1.
6.) To recommend that a participant may be subject to penalty for the inhumane treatment of an American Quarter Horse that occurs somewhere other than at or in connection with an AQHA-approved show. This applies internationally, as well. Anyone reporting a violation must be acting in good faith and have reasonable grounds for believing the information disclosed is a violation. Any allegations that prove to have been made maliciously or knowingly to be false will be viewed as a serious disciplinary offense and will be considered a violation of this rule, subjecting the reporting party to penalty by AQHA.
