Photos by Ali Hubbell, Jeff Kirkbride, Shane Rux & Cody Parmenter
FEATURES
SPARK OF LIFE: PETER BRIGGS FINDS PASSION IN WELDING DESIGNS FROM SHOES 20-25
By Corrine S. Borton
Photos by Peter Briggs & Harold Campton
EVENTS
THE MADNESS: GAVEN YOUNG RECAPS SLOT CLASS WIN 35-40
By Corrine S. Borton
Photos by Jeff Kirkbride & Courtney Borton Ament
REGULAR COLUMNS AMATEUR PROFILE 30-31
Corryn Casteel
YOUTH PROFILE 52-53
Charlie Brooks
“INSIDE” LAW 49
By Katherine Jarve
“INSIDE” HEALTH 55-56
By Dr. Luke Bass
THE BUZZ 57 ASSOCIATION NEWS 61
JUNE, 2025
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With three American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) World Championships, seven Quarter Horse Congress Championships and numerous futurity wins in Western Pleasure to his credit, it’s safe to say Casey Willis knows what it takes for a young contender to be successful in the show pen.
That’s why when he describes Feeling Groovey (Pippi), a 2022 chestnut mare, sired by Hay Goodlookn and out of Forever N Ever, as “big, strong and beautiful,” you just know she’s one to watch.
Feeling Groovey was bred by Stanley Scott, of Ocala, Florida, and sent to Willis’ father-in-law, Rusty Green and his wife, Katie, to get her start under saddle. In March of her 2-year-old year they enlisted Willis to aid in her development.
“She was a big, beautiful filly with a great disposition,” Willis said.
She made her showing debut with a top 10 in the 2-Year-Old Maiden Open Western Pleasure at the Quarter Horse Congress last October and then followed that up by capturing a bronze in the 2-Year-Old Level 3 Open Western Pleasure at the AQHA World Show in November. Then at the Florida Gulf Coast in January Pippi and Casey were Circuit Champions in Level 2 Junior Western Pleasure and won the 3Year-Old Open Western Pleasure.
Feeling Groovey is now owned by MNM Stoneridge Farms LLC, where Willis and his wife, Deanna moved in January.
Michelle Monteith and her husband, Chuck Vohs, built Stonridge on 50 acres in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, so that
they and their children, Sam, Kate and Caroline, could enjoy their horses at home.
“We tried to put together a comfortable facility that would be functional at a professional level,”
Michelle said. “The farm has over 30 stalls, individual turnout paddocks, large pastures and a hot walker. We’ve got a beautiful tack room, heated indoor, show barn and broodmare barn. Casey and Deanna have a home on the farm, and we have staff apartments as well.”
Michelle met Casey and Deanna when she purchased Congress and AQHA World Champion The Lopin Illusion (Sonny), a 2017 chestnut gelding by The Lopin Machine out of A Certain Illusion, from them at the end of 2023. She said they are really enjoying working with the couple.
“They make everything easy,” she said.
“They’re incredibly organized and their attention to detail is unmatched. We’ve all learned an incredible amount in a short period of time. Casey really takes time ensuring that you know how to pilot your horse. He’s truly invested in the success of his clients.”
In fact, they are already enjoying tremendous success in the show pen with Feeling Groovey and Casey winning the 3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure at the Arizona Sun Circuit, and the Orange Blossom Circuit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida and capturing a Reserve Championship at A Sudden Impulse Futurity in Ocala as well. They followed that up with a win in that same event at s
The Madness in Wilmington, Ohio and a Reserve (tied to win) at The Premier.
“I think she has all the pieces we look for in our show horses,” Casey said. “ She’s big, strong, beautiful; she lopes and jogs; and she naturally carries her head and neck great.”
Feeling Groovey will continue to be shown in Open 3-Year-Old Western Pleasure classes at all the major events this year with Casey and in Amateur and Non-Pro classes with Michelle eventually, as well, Casey said.
“She’s incredibly strong and talented and comes from a maternal line that I love,” Michelle said.
Ironically, Michelle first saw Feeling Groovey last year at the Quarter Horse Congress but at the time, she wasn’t in the market for a new horse.
“Once I got to meet her and see her go on a regular basis, I was in love,” she explained. “She’s a very sweet mare in addition to being talented. I love that about her.”
Until it’s time for Michelle to start showing Pippi, she will continue to show A Lopin Illusion in Level 3 Amateur Western Pleasure and Casey will show him in Level 3 Senior Western Pleasure.
“He is a special one and I am happy to be able to ride him again and coach Michelle on him,” Casey said.
Michelle’s son, Sam Latta, will continue to show his show partner, The Whos Who (Conway), a 2019 gelding by Machine Made and out of Whos Chasing Who. In 2023 the team won the Level 1 Youth Western Pleasure 14-18 at the Quarter Horse Congress and then last year they captured the Level 1 Western Pleasure 14-18 Championship at the AQHA Youth World Show. They were Circuit Champions in 14-18 Youth Western Pleasure at the Arizona Sun Circuit last month and Casey and Conway were Reserve Champions in the West Coast Breeders Senior Western Pleasure.
Michelle’s daughter, Caroline Latta is expected to start her show career later this year with Sam’s former show partner, No Doubt Im Chill (Simon), a 2019 chestnut gelding, sired by No Doubt Im Lazy out of Best Blazin Angel.
Pictured on top is Casey Willis riding Feeling Groovey, a 2022 chestnut mare by Hay Goodlookn out of Forever N Ever and (inset) Stoneridge horses (left to right) The Lopin Illusion, The Whos Who and Feeling Groovey. On this page (left) Casey and Pippi at the 2024 AQHA World Show, where they won a bronze in the 2-Year-Old Level 3 Open Western Pleasure and Casey and Pippy at the 2025 Arizona Sun Circuit where they won the 3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure.
Michelle got her start in the show world as a youth competitor at a very small barn.
“As a young adult I owned a Hunter Under Saddle horse, Air Ride Equipped. We were fortunate to win an AQHA Reserve World Championship and World Championship with him,” she said. “I took a long break while the kids were young and am excited to be back.”
In addition to the show horses, MNM Stoneridge LLC has been assembling a group of highly decorated broodmares.
“We’ve enjoyed having a few babies on the farm,” Michelle said.
The son of AQHA judge Tracy Willis and Sharon Willis, of Rogersville, Missouri, Casey was named head trainer at Masterson Farms LLC in Somerville, Tennessee, in December of 2014 where for the next six-plus years he trained and exhibited numerous Western Pleasure champions in AQHA and NSBA competition, including with KM Suddenly So Easy, with whom he won his first AQHA World Championship title in the 2-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure. In 2020 Casey moved to Ocala, Florida and established Casey Willis Show Horses LLC. Then in September 2022 he married Deanna Green, who has also earned numerous AQHA World and Congress Championships, and together they have built or help build the careers of numerous successful contenders in Western Pleasure and coach many youth and amateur competitors.
When he moved to Stoneridge Farms he took along most all his clients and will have a limited number of openings for new customers.
“We run a boutique horse training operation and don’t like to have too many numbers,” Casey said. “It’s important to me to ride all the horses myself and for my clients to get their lessons from me.”
Although they have only been in Pennsylvania for a few months now, Casey said he and Deanna are excited about their new venture.
“Michelle and her family have
Sam Latta is pictured above left with The Whos Who at the 2024 AQHA Youth World Show where they were winners of the Level 1 Youth Western Pleasure 14-18. Above right, Sam and Conway, a 2019 bay gelding, sired by Machine Made out of Whos Chasin Who, are pictured at the 2025 Arizona Sun Circuit where they were Circuit Champions in Youth Western Pleasure 14-18.
When sparks start to fly in the two-car garage sized shop attached to Peter Briggs’ Fort Worth home, you can rest assured he’s not just “horsing around.”
In the past four years, Briggs has transformed his nearly lifelong passion for welding into an artistic journey.
It all started when a dear friend asked Briggs to make a horseshoe cross as a memorial for her son who tragically passed away.
“To me it was like a sign from God that this could be my calling,” he said.
Fast forward to today and most of what Briggs creates can be described as “functional art” and it almost always starts the same – with a simple horseshoe.
“My process begins with brainstorming ideas,” he explained. “The majority of my work comes from my brain. I look for practical applications for what I build.”
Sometimes a piece is created simply because Briggs has an inspiration.
“I will sit and think about an idea, then I will lay out the pieces and think how it will look or function,” he said. “I’ll do this several times before I lay down my first weld. It can be maddening sometimes, but I believe in what I want the piece to look like hanging on a client’s wall. I won’t weld it up until I’m satisfied in my vision and sometimes, I cut it all up and start over.
There are also times people ask Briggs for a specific item.
“One time a client asked me to make a horseshoe rooster piece,” he said. Briggs was happy to oblige.
Since that first horseshoe cross, Briggs’ collection of creations just grew and grew. He has created buckle displays, seasonal items, custom horseshoe belt buckles, bridle racks, coat racks, wall shelves, candle bases, salt and pepper holders and even jewelry racks.
“I once made a custom BBQ tool rack for NRCHA (National Reined Cow Horse
Association) professionals Chris and Sarah Dawson,” he said.
Once Briggs decides what he will be creating the process moves on to the building stage.
“Since most of my work is made from horseshoes, I must decide on size and shape,” he explained. “I also add in nails to my horseshoe art along with other steel materials.”
Along with several metal grinding and polishing tools, Briggs utilizes a wire welder, a type of welding process where a continuous wire is fed through a welding gun to create an arc that melts the base metal and the wire itself, joining the pieces together, called by some “sewing with fire.”
“For my more decorative pieces like the belt buckles, I utilize stones, beads and crystals for the embellishments,” he said. “All my pieces are finished off with protective clear coats or paint if needed.”
The time it takes to complete and item from start to finish varies greatly depending on the individual piece and its intricacies.
“I usually give myself one to two weeks, but some items can take longer,” he said.
“I’m in my shop three to four days per week and depending on what I’m working on, I probably finish up three to four pieces per week,” Briggs said. “Some days I will weld six to eight hours in a day.”
tSome of Peter Briggs’ creations (pictured on the opposite page) include spur salt and pepper holders, trophy buckle stands, horseshoe cross wall hangings and decorative pieces for the home or office.
ttBriggs’ roots in the horse industry run deep. His great-grandmother, Rose Fulton, was a founding member of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). She owned a ranch in southern Arizona and competed on the AQHA circuit from 19401960.
Peter was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and grew up riding horses. His mother owned several roping horses and he started showing in Lead Line and WalkTrot events at local shows in New Mexico, on a Paint named Manny that his family owned.
“I showed Manny in Lead Line with my dad doing the leading,” he recalled. “I remember winning a little trophy.”
Briggs’ older brother is Pilot Point, Texas, professional trainer John Briggs and once he graduated from the Walk-Trot Division, he started showing in all-around classes under his brother’s guidance, getting the opportunity to ride some highly decorated show horses.
“I qualified for the AJQHYA (now AQHYA) World show every year from 1989 to 1994,” he said. “I had two top 10 finishes in Showmanship with two different horses - Becka Lee in 1991 and We Be Jettin in 1994.”
Briggs was also 1990 AQHA Youth World Champion in Trail on Mr Bueno Dial Bar. And, he competed at the All American Quarter Horse Congress several years during his youth career accumulating several top 10 placings including the 1990 12-14 Trail Champion riding Mr Bueno Dial Bar.
“We Be Jettin was the last horse I competed on during my youth career,” he said. “I sold him to Joetta Meredith Bell at the 1994 Youth World. She went on to win several World and Congress championships on him before retiring him.”
Unlike other members of the family, Briggs did not gravitate toward work in the horse industry. He took a much different path.
After high school he attended Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Sciences.
In 2003 Briggs accepted a position with the Fort Worth Zoo working in the Revenue Operations department, but later was given the opportunity to transfer to the Animal Programs department.
“I worked in the Texas Wild section for four years when I was approached about joining the Elephant Department,” he said. “I spent the next 17 years working with some of the most amazing animals on the planet. My career at the zoo was an unfor-
gettable experience.”
Briggs recently retired as the elephant department supervisor after 21 years.
These days, his life is filled with traveling and spending time with his wife of 16 years, Kirsten.
“We met at the 2007 AQHYA World Show,” he said. “A mutual friend introduced us.”
Briggs is close with the rest of his family too. In addition to his older brother, John, he has three older sisters who still live in New Mexico, along with his mother.
He doesn’t have horses any more but admits “You never know what the future holds.”
And, of course, there’s the welding.
“Oddly enough, welding relaxes me,” Briggs said. “It allows me to slow down my mind and focus on the process.”
That focus had allowed him to expand his designs to include new items to his portfolio.
“Now I have seasonal items such as Christmas trees, snowmen and pumpkins all made from horseshoes,” he said. “I started sharing my work on social media and it kind of took off from there.”
Social media has had a huge impact on Briggs’ ability to get his work out in front of a larger audience. And advances in technology have paved the way.
“The technology of my equipment has really evolved and given me some help with streamlining some of the processes I use in the day -to-day operations,” he said.
But at the end of the day, what is most important to Briggs is the spirit of his designs. He says his nativity scene is, without a doubt, the piece of which he is most proud.
“It was my own original design,” he explained. “I consider it to be an heirloom piece that I can only hope will be passed down to future generations.”
A Peter Briggs creation ranges in price from $40 to $300 depending on how elaborate the design. Custom work can even be more depending on the scope of the piece.
“I recently have begun making my work available to shows for awards,” Briggs explained. “The buckle displays have been very popular. The bridle racks are also a hit with the shows. “
You can see more examples of Peter Briggs’ work by connecting with him on his Peter Briggs Facebook page.
tPeter Briggs, of Fort Worth, Texas, is pictured on the opposite page in a sketch with his former show partner, We Be Jettin. He is also pictured (clockwise from that) with Mr Bueno Dial Bar at the 1990 All American Quarter Horse Congress; with We Be Jettin at the 1994 AJQHA World Championship Show; and with Mr Bueno Dial Bar at the 1990 AJQHA World Show. On this page, Briggs is pictured at work as elephant department supervisor at the Fort Worth Zoo, where he worked for 21 years. Following his retirement, Briggs started a new career as an artistic welder. Inset is his favorite piece, a nativity scene.
C�ryn C�eel
Ohio competitor loves giving her show partners the opportunity to shine
Text Corrine S.Borton Photos Cody Parmenter, Courtney Borton Ament, Jeff Kirkbride & Shane Rux
Plenty of competitors know their show partners well. In fact, it’s sort of a requirement if you want to achieve any measureable level of success. But how many can say their horse has over 30 facial expressions?
Ohio Amateur competitor Corryn Casteel says Cheaper Than Therapy does and she can tell you exactly what each one means.
Cheaper Than Therapy, a 2022 buckskin mare by The Next Detail out of Ooolala Dolli, has been Casteel’s show partner for over two years now.
“I was actually sitting alongside a pool in Vegas, enjoying an adult drink and her yearling video popped up on my screen,” she explained. “I knew I wanted her. I made an offer and the lady’s response shocked me. She asked if I saw that she was n/h for HYPP. Ummm no, what hunt seat horse has that? I said no then. For a week I watched her video and couldn’t stop thinking about her.”
Finally Casteel’s trainer, Hank Clason said “Just buy the damn horse.” So she did.
“I had her shipped right to Hank in Ohio and I don’t regret it at all,” Casteel said. “Ob-
viously it hasn’t affected her and she has thrived as a show horse.”
Cheaper Than Therapy has been ridiculously easy to train, according to Casteel and learns everything quickly.
“She stands at her stall gate and paws until I bring her out and saddle her up,” she said. “She loves to work and tries so hard.”
That effort was rewarded last year when the pair placed third in the 2-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle at the Quarter Horse Congress. They were Non-Pro Color Hunter Under Saddle champions at the Gold Coast and Gulf Coast, and recently placed third in the 3-YearOld Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle at the Southern Ohio Quarter Horse Association’s Madness Circuit.
In addition to Hunter Under Saddle, Casteel is showing Cheaper Than Therapy in Level 1 Amateur Showmanship and Equitation this year.
Casteel has been riding with Clason for over 15 years now. In fact, it’s a funny story how they met.
The first horse she ever competed with at an American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) event was Park A Jet, a 1991 red roan gelding by Hotrodders Jer Set out of Shesa Special Glo.
“I bought him at the Super Sale at the Congress and I never even rode him first,” Casteel explained. “My mom said I could put him on her credit card but I had to have it paid off in a year. I thought he was pretty and had won the Congress before, so what 18-year-old wouldn’t take mom up on the offer? He was 17 years old when I bought him. I had no idea how to ride him so a friend of mine recommended that I take him to Hank Clason. I showed with Hank the rest of the year. We won the Level 1 Youth All-Around title for Northern Ohio Quarter Horse Association (NOQHA) that year and placed top 10 at the Congress. He retired at Hank’s and lived there the rest of his life.”
In 2023 Casteel won the Limited Non- Pro Maturity at the Congress on Ladies Love Me, a 2019 gelding by Willy Be
Invited out of Mito Been Me.
“The day he was born, I called off of work and went and bought him. I owned his ¾ brother, What It Willy Takes, at the time. I was top five in both the Level 1 Hunter Under Saddle and Level 1 Equitation on him at the Congress,” Casteel said. “Ladies Love Me was always ridiculously handsome and talented. He also grew to be big so I didn’t show him until he was three. His first show was the Level 1 Championships where he placed fifth. He had never been shown, or even ridden in an English saddle for that matter.”
In 2022 Ladies Love Me placed fifth in the 3-Year-Old Limited Open Hunter Under Saddle at the Congress with Elizabeth Baker in the irons and he and Casteel placed sixth in the 3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle and seventh in the Open Division of that class. Then in 2023 Casteel rode Ladies Love Me to a Congress Championship in the Non-Pro Limited Hunter Under Saddle Maturity.
“That is something I will never forget,” she said. “He showed like a dream that day.”
Casteel credits all the success she had enjoyed in the show pen to Clason.
“I have been riding with Hank for over 15 years now. He is the one I owe everything to. I came to him knowing my leads and diagonals and that was about it,” she said.
Clason taught Casteel how to ride a broke show horse and how to train her own horses. These days, she does all of her own riding but Clason is always there to watch over her and “keep her in line.”
“I love to take a horse from being broke out, to trained, to being a successful show horse,” she explained. “I love to go show to see the progress we have made, but I also love to show to give a good horse their time to shine.”
But Clason is not the only one in Casteel’s corner. She says her mom, Brenda Juszczyk, is her hero.
“She is always pushing me to be better and never lets me give up or make excuses,” she said. “She hauled me from show to show to show, until I got my driver license, then I took the horses and she met me at the show. She is always there with the grooming bag and ready to record at any moment. When my mom tells me that something wasn’t good enough or my best, she isn’t saying it to be mean, she’s saying it to be honest. She knows I’m capable of more and can do more. This sticks with me.”
When she is not riding or at a show, Casteel stays very busy as a CCSR Nurse for Cleveland Clinic, working three 12-hour shifts a week.
“I travel between nine hospitals filling the nursing need gaps,” Casteel said. “This allows me to make my own schedule and work when I want, allowing me to work around the horse shows.”
Corryn Casteel is pictured on the opposite page (top) riding Cheaper Than Therapy and with the 2022 buckskin mare at the 2024 Quarter Horse Congress. On this page she pictured (top) with Cheaper Than Therapy in Showmanship at The Madness and below that with Ladies Love Me at the 2023 Congress
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.
Big payouts, tough competition mark 2025 event in Ohio
Text Corrine S. Borton
Photos Jeff Kirkbride & Courtney B. Ament
Texas trainer Gaven Young set out for The Madness with a specific plan for success in the 3-Year-Old & Over Maiden Western Pleasure with ChromedOut (Chester), a sorrel gelding sired by No Doubt Im Lazy out of Look Whos Ready.
“My strategy was to get to the horse show; get my horse as ready as possible and prepared for anything,” he said. “That way I could go in that class and have a good solid clean run making it look as effortless as possible and let Chester’s talent and the work I put in the week leading up to it take care of the rest.”
That’s exactly what happened when Young and Chester defeated the 23 other competitors to take home the winning check of $25,000 for Chester’s owners, Shane & Darla Leavell, of Louisville, Kentucky.
When they lined up and awaited the judges’ decisions Young was hopeful.
“I thought he was excellent considering it was his first time showing,” Young said. He didn’t do anything out of the ordinary. There were no surprises. He handled the crowd and the atmosphere well. Looking back on it there are always little things I think I could have done better here or there but all in all he was amazing. I didn’t feel like there was anything bad that happened that the judges would hold against us. I was just nervous and excited to hear their placings and what they thought of the class.”
Young started riding the youngster, bred by Dillon Price, back in November, soon after going to work for Aaron Moses Show Horses.
“I think his greatest strengths are his naturally good rhythm, his jog, his self carriage and his ring presence,” Young said. “As I jogged down the middle (at the start of the
class) I remember thinking that this was very good. His speed was not too strong or too slow and for the most part we were tracking perfectly straight toward the ‘R’ in the middle of the gate in the center of the far wall in the Sanctuary Arena, just like we had practiced several times before.”
Shane Leavell recalls the first time he set eyes on Chester.
“We (Shane and his wife, Darla) were in the market for a yearling and observed Chester working presale at the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) sale,” Shane said. “He had a striking appearance and exceptional movement. He displayed good manners but also had a distinct personality, making him our instant favorite prospect.”
Chester’s training began in Louisville but in August of 2023 the youngster was sent to Aaron Moses Show Horses to continue his training under saddle.
“He is a quick learner and continues to excel over time,” Shane said. “His legs have remained excellent since being saddled for the first time.”
A few weeks prior to The Madness Moses approached the Leavell family with a proposal.
“He mentioned that the horse responded well to Gaven and said he believed that he would perform best with Gaven in the class,” Shane recalled.
The Leavells told Moses they trust his judgment and welcomed Young to take the reins.
“I really appreciate them letting me show Chester,” Young said. “Not everyone is willing to let someone other than the head trainer show their horse so for me as an assistant to be able to have the opportunity to show horses like Chester in prestigious classes such as the Maiden Western Pleasure at The Madness means the world to me.”
Chester will continue to compete in 3-
Year-Old classes at all the major events this year.
“I think the sky’s the limit with him and I’m excited to see what the rest of the year has in store for us,” Young said.
Reserve in the 3-Year-Old Maiden Western Pleasure at The Madness was Shivering, a 2022 sorrel gelding, sired by Cool Breeze out of Made Another Fantasy, bred by Rod Jeffries, owned by Atkinson Ranch and shown by Aaron Moses; $10,000. The Limited Champion in the class was Chili Dawg, sired by Machine Made out of Invite Me Breeze, bred by Candice Hall/Cory Seebach, owned by David Beck and shown by Alec Cochran earning $2,500 plus $1,500 for placing eighth in the Open Division.
In addition to the Maiden Western Pleasure, the 2025 Madness and Pre-Madness, held May 2-12, at the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio, boasted more than 15,500 AQHA entries, NSBA competition, great prizes and parties.
In addition to the 3-Year-Old & Over Maiden Western Pleasure many other futurity classes were featured.
3-YEAR-OLD & OVER NOVICE HORSE WESTERN PLEASURE
Fresh off their win in the $50,000 Maiden 3-Year-Old & Over Western Pleasure at The Sudden Impulse Futurity and Orange Blossom Circuit, Katie Green and All Nett claimed victory in the 3-Year-Old & Over Novice Horse Open Western Pleasure at The Madness, earning a check for $20,000.
The 2022 gelding, sired by Nothin But Nett out of Just Cool Movin was bred by Todd Michael and is owned by Nothin But Nett’s owner Susan K. Johns, of Scottsdale, Arizona.
A total of 12 competed and Moses also finished Reserve (tie) in that event riding SmallTownSouthrnMan, sired by Its A Southern Thing out of KM Smooth N Fancy, earning $6,250. The bay gelding was bred by Lola Allen and is owned by Gail Mason
Also in the tie (placing third) was Cool Liike Me, sired by Machine Made out of KM Hot Number. Cool Liike Me was bred by Brett & Candy Parrish, is owned by Robert & Lisa Thomaier and was shown by Cody Parrish, also earning $6,250.
Gaven Young is pictured on the opposite page riding ChromeDoubt to a win in the 3-Year-Old & Over Maiden Western Pleasure at the 2025 Madness. The team took home a check for $25,000 for the win in the class of 24. On this page (top) Katie Green is pictured with All Nett after wining the 3-Year-Old & Over Novice Horse Western Pleasure at The Madness, earning $20,000. Below that Limited champions in those two events include (left) Chili Dawg and Alec Cochran and Dangerouss Woman and Garrett Streit. s
Placing fourth and winning the Limited Division title was Dangerouss Woman and Garrett Streit. The 2022 chestnut mare, sired by Machine Made out of Invited By The Lady, was bred by BS Ventures and is owned by the SSH Partnership.
3-YEAR-OLD & OVER NOVICE HORSE HUNTER UNDER SADDLE
A total of 12 competed in the 3-Year-Old & Over Hunter Under Saddle at this year’s Madness. What Is The Matter took top prize and $5,000 in the class with Katy Jo Zuidema in the irons for owner Marcie McClenon. What Is The Matter is a 2021 bay gelding, sired by What Matters Most out of Last Minute Investment. He was bred by McClenon and just last month won the 4-Year-Old Open Hunter Under Saddle at The Sudden Impulse futurity and was Reserve in the $2,500 Limited Horse Open Hunter Under Saddle.
Reserve Champion in the 3-Year-Old & Over Hunter Under Saddle at The Madness was Jamie English and Shezza Outlaw, sired by Outlaw Enterprise out of Million Dollar Blues. Shezza Outlaw was bred by Laurie Sherman and is owned by Brenda Ramirez. They earned $2,500.
The Limited Champion in the class was One Hot Casanova, sired by Extremely Hot Chips out of Autum Coosanova, and Becca Britton riding for owner Clarissa Edgerton. The win in the Limited Division came with a check for $2,000 and One Hot Casanova earned another $1,000 for placing fourth in the Open Division.
Other futurity class winners included:
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure (9 shown) – Champion, Dang Theres No Doubt bred and owned by Amy Lynch and shown by Tessa Sutton; Reserve, Guitarz N Cadillacz owned by Rusty & Katie Green and shown by Deanna Willis.
3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure (8 shown) – Champion, Jesse Jaames owned and shown by Libby Trucco, $400; Reserve, D O Dubble G, owned and shown by Marlee White, $300.
Maturity Non-Pro Western Pleasure (8 shown) – Champion, Countray Grammer (Its A Southern Thing x Eyez A Blazin), bred by Scott O’Connell, owned and shown by Kathleen Spencer; Reserve, Foxy Cleopatraa (Batt Man x Zippos Touch Of Gold), bred by Brett Kelham, owned by Robert Fowler, shown by Sara Nimigan.
First Year Green Trail (12 shown) – Champion, Foxy Cleopatraa (Batt Man x Zippos Touch Of Gold), bred by Bret Kelham, owned by Rob Fowler and shown by Melvin Yoder; Reserve, Ladee Luck (Gone Viral x VS Code Me Lucky), bred and owned by Mr. and Mrs. William Wilkes, shown by Carly Parks
6-Year-Old & Over Trail (8 shown) –Champion, VS Blurred Lines, owned by David
or Sherry Patterson, shown by Alexandria Bryner; Reserve, Two Ziplines, owned by Katie Kopf, shown by Melissa Jones.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle (5 shown) –Champion: Southern Circles (Its A Southern Thing x Lazy Lopen Lindy), bred by Ulrike Klotz, owned by Londa Pick-
On the opposite page (clockwise from top): Katy Jo Zuidema and What Is The Matter; Eleanor Ott and Southern Circles; John Zinsmayer and The Crimefighter, winners of the Dad’s Western Pleasure; and Becca Britton and One Hot Casanova. On this page (clockwise from top): Melvin Yoder and Foxy Cleopatraa; Dang Theres No Doubt and Tessa Sutton; Katie Piper and Wanna Meet Sherlock; Kathleen Spencer and Countray Grammer; and Alexandria Bryner and VS Blurred Lines.
les, shown by Eleanor Ott; Reserve, Its Martini Tyme (The Best Martini x Babe In The Irons), owned and shown by Erica Maletic.
$2,500 Limited Horse/ $2,500 Limited Rider Western Pleasure (6 shown) – Champion, Wanna Meet Sherlock (Mr Sherlock Holmes x RU Hot For Chocolate), bred by Mary Webre, owned by Christine Hull, shown by Katie Piper; Reserve, Shez Custom Made (Machine Made x Custom Ride), owned and shown by Michelle Siporski.
Maturity $10,000 Limited Horse Western Pleasure (9 shown) – Champion, Rip Roarin Good (Allured To Cholcolate x Its Good T Be Me), bred by Mary Webre, owned by Nettie Olsen, shown by Adam Mathis; Reserve, Baby You The Best (RL Best Of Sudden x Lazy Lopin Moonlight) bred & owned by Karma Equine,shown by Casey Willis.
3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure (11 shown) –Champion, Feeling Groovey (Hay Goodlookn x Forever N Ever), bred by Stanley Scott, owned by MNM Stoneridge LLC, shown by Casey Willis; Reserve, HP The Lazy Machine (The Lopin Machine x HP The Lazy Boss), owned by Debby Brehm, shown by Katie Green.
For additional information on The Madness and Pre Madness, including complete results, visit www.anequineproduction.com.
RATES by Katherine Jarve
There are many things to consider when raising your rates
Just about everyone is complaining about how expensive things are these days. Prices continue to climb and the state of the economy also affects the horse industry. The price of fuel, horse feed, and shavings (to name only a few) are making the horse business a lot more costly. Equine professionals are faced with the unfortunate reality of having to reluctantly raise prices for customers. However, are there any legal issues with raising rates? This article explores some suggestions for avoiding any legal problems when increasing prices.
Look at your contract. Landlord tenant law generally does not apply to horse boarding or training relationships. Rather, the equine boarding and horse training relationship is typically governed by contract law.
Assuming there is a written agreement, which is recommended, you will need to start with looking at the terms of the agreement. The contract should specifically address the length of the contract. Is it a month-to-month term or something longer? The contract should also identify the payment terms. What are the prices for training and board? Depending on the length and the terms of the contract, you may need to wait until the expiration of the term before imposing higher rates. Does your contract include any language specifically related to reserving your right to increase rates? It should specify that you are permitted to raise rates by giving clients notice. For example, you may include language that you have the right to raise rates for training and the costs of boarding with 45 days advance written notice.
helps protect you should there be a dispute arise about the fees. Importantly, it also gives both parties time to make arrangements if they no longer wish to continue the relationship.
Consider imposing “extra” side charges. Most agreements, both written and verbal, customarily have a flat rate for training and board. But what if something “extra” comes up? For example, what if the client wants extra feed or stall bedding for the horse? Or, what if the horse needs to be emergently hauled to a local equine hospital? You may consider adding additional charges for certain services above and beyond the standard training and board. Hauling fees, daily horse show rates, and emergency vet treatment are just some examples of “extras” you should consider including in your agreement or, at
An unwritten or verbal training or boarding agreement can be legally binding, but it is far more difficult to prove and enforce than a written one.
minimum, giving advance notice of to clients.
You may also consider adding “late fees” for unpaid bills if permitted by law in your state. Notifying clients that they will be charged for unpaid bills will hopefully encourage timely payment. If you elect to charge a late fee, then you should clearly state the amount of the fee and when it will accrue past the due date. Typically, there is a short grace period (i.e. 15 days) where the client can make payment without incurring late fees; however, this is something that should be put in writing.
What if the client is unhappy with the rate increase? The contract should also discuss whether clients have the right to terminate the relationship before the new rates take effect. In the example above, if the trainer gives notice of a rate increase, then the client may also be permitted to give written notice within 30 days that he or she is pulling the horse.
An unwritten or verbal training or boarding agreement can be legally binding, but it is far more difficult to prove and enforce than a written one. The terms are much less clear. Under this scenario, professionals will be generally free to raise their rates at any time. However, from a legal standpoint, it is customary to give at least one month’s notice for any changes in the terms of the arrangement. Additionally, if a customer is unhappy with any rate increase, he or she would likewise be permitted to leave with at least one month’s notice.
Give written notice. Once you have had an opportunity to review your agreement, give written notice of any rate increases to your clients. This is courteous to your client and
Keep written records. Submit itemized monthly invoices to clients for the services that you have provided and include the date and amount of payment received. You should not simply rely upon your client to send you a check every month for payment. This is true even if the client has never been late or missed a payment.
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.
Ch�lie Br�ks
Florida competitor loves the level of precision the Showmanship class demands
Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Danielle Long & Shane Rux
Seventeen-year-old Charlie Brooks is a Congress and National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) World Champion in Equitation and captured a bronze trophy at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Youth World Show in Western Riding. But if you ask her in which class she most likes to compete, she is quick to tell you. It’s Showmanship.
“Showmanship requires a level of precision that is hard to achieve, I feel it always pushes me to think critically and strive for perfection,” she explained.
Brooks, a Youth competitor from Laurel Hill, Florida is currently showing two horses – The Only Deal and On Cloud Ninne – under the direction of Ohio trainer Brent Tincher and Florida trainers Nick and Carmen Mayabb.
The Only Deal (Damon), a 2013 dun gelding sired by Simply A Dun Deal out of A Social Invitation is Brooks’ show partner for 14-18 Youth Trail, Equitation, Horsemanship and Showmanship. In 2023 they were the unanimous champions in the Level 1 Youth Equitation 14-18 at the Quarter Horse Congress.
Just recently Brooks teamed with On Cloud Ninne (Teddy), a 2020 bay roan gelding by VS Goodride out of Miss Good Version. They showed together for the first time in 14-18 Youth Trail at the Southern Ohio Quarter Horse Association (SOQHA) Madness Circuit and he is being shown in Green Trail by the Mayabbs
“Teddy and Damon are completely different style horses,” Brooks explained. “Teddy is very lazy and laid back, while Damon is more sensitive and requires a softer handle. Both keep me on my toes and teach me how to switch from different style horses quickly.”
Brooks gets her love of horses from her mother, Jean Brooks, who introduced her daughter to riding at an early age.
“Mom always says I started riding in the front pack when I was just a baby,” Brooks explained.
She started competing on the Quarter Horse circuit when she was just 10 years old, mainly at smaller shows the first
few years. Her first show partner, for Small Fry events, was To You Lazy, a bay mare by Lazy Loper. She moved up to Level 1 Youth and 13 & Under all-around events with WonIt On My RV (Moses), a bay roan gelding by VS Flatline. Together they captured a bronze trophy in Level 1 13 & Under Western Riding at the AQHA Youth World Show in 2021. Brooks calls Moses her “heart horse” and says that she would not have parted with him for any amount of money, however, unfortunately she lost him to a severe case of colic following the 2022 National Snaffle Bit Association World Show. Her family purchased I’ll Be Batting Ona RV (Shirley), a bay mare sired by Batt Man out of Moses’ dam for Brooks to show in Youth 13 & Under all-around classes. But tragedy struck again and Shirley was lost due to lameness issues.
“After losing two horses in 11 months, it was time for a fresh start for us,” Brooks said. “That is when we found Damon at the NSBA World Show.”
Brooks also competes in Western Pleasure with her mom’s mare, Itsa Southern Belle. They won the Youth Western Pleasure at the 2022 Back To Berrien Futurity and the NYATT Western Pleasure at the 2024 Congress.
Brooks says she loves the competitive side of showing as well as the connections she makes with her horses and friends. She looks up to many in the show industry but says
her mom tops the list.
“My mom has always been there for me and kept me humble,” she said. “She definitely keeps me on my toes! I am so grateful for everything she has done for me.”
When she is not riding or at a show, Brooks is busy with school work. She attended Paxton School in Florida through middle school and is now enrolled full time with Florida Virtual Shool where she is currently a junior. She has also committed to Auburn University as a member of the school’s Division 1 Equestrian Team, which she says has been her lifelong dream.
Brooks enjoys traveling and says she loves being able to see different parts of the world. She lists her dream vacation as spending the Christmas holidays in Lapland, Finland.
Her family – father, Blane; brothers, David Mosher, William and Robert Brooks; sisters, Janet Sanders and Molly Mosher – also make up an important part of her life.
Youth Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for a Youth profile email Corrine Borton, Editor, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.
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Charlie Brooks is pictured on this page with her current show partner, The Only Deal (Damon) and (top) with Itsa Southern Belle at the 2024 Congress. On the opposite page she is pictured with Damon at the Congress and (left to right across the top): at Auburn University; with boyfriend, Caden Craft and with members of her family on vacation.
BIOSECURITY by Jackie Bellamy-Zions
Being proative rather than reactive has much greater success rate
“In the equine industry, true biosecurity is hard to achieve because horses move around a lot, and many diseases are always present,” said Ontario Veterinary College infectious disease specialist Dr. Scott Weese. “However, it’s still important to try to prevent diseases from entering and to have plans in place to manage any outbreaks.” With frequent horse movements, endemic pathogens and emerging diseases, there is a need for improved understanding and motivation to adopt better infection control practices.
Infection control begins in the barn and works best when the focus is pro-active rather than reactive. This includes having an access management plan, proper quarantine protocols for new and returning horses, and training EVERYONE who comes on to the property or handles the horses.
Access Management: Controlling how horses, humans, equipment and vehicles can move into and around your farm are all aspects of access management aimed to reduce the transmission of pathogens.
Access management begins at the entrance, where a training facility may use fencing and gated entries to restrict access to the stables and training areas, ensuring only authorized personnel can enter. Procedures at controlled access points such as hand sanitizing and boot cleaning help prevent the spread of infections. Both staff and service providers need to be made aware of any infection control measures in place. Clean outerwear that has not been worn to another barn are also recommended to prevent potential spread of disease.
for at least 14 days. This involves twice daily temperature checks and health checks including watching water consumption, appetite, urination, manure and any signs of illness.
Turn out paddocks should also be away from other resident equines, especially if that includes higher risk horses like broodmares and foals.
Effective quarantine includes using separate equipment for isolated or quarantined horses to avoid cross-contamination. This includes water buckets, feed tubs, grooming equipment as well as wheelbarrows, brooms, pitchforks and other cleaning tools.
Ideally, new and returning horses are handled by separate staff. Otherwise, quarantined horses are worked with last &
Infection control begins in the barn and works best when the focus is pro-active rather than reactive. This includes having an access management plan, proper quarantine protocols for new and returning horses, and training EVERYONE who comes on to the property or handles the horses.
A sign in procedure can be made mandatory for visitors. A log can be helpful to help trace the problem in the event of a disease outbreak. Providing guided tours can ensure they do not enter restricted areas. Additional signage can let visitors know where they can and cannot go.
Controlled access zones can designate specific areas for different activities, such as quarantine zones for new arrivals and separate zones for resident horses, with controlled access points to manage movement.
Isolation/Quarantine: When horses return home or new horses arrive, such as from a sale, it is a good idea to implement quarantine and/or isolation protocols. Ideally this involves housing in a separate building away from your resident horses, but it may be the end of an aisle with several empty stalls in between.
New and returning horses are kept separate and monitored
hands are washed before and after each interaction. Strategically placed alcohol-based sanitizers can also be used. If wash stations are limited, this makes it easier for staff and visitors to follow infection control protocols. Disposable gloves, disposable shoe covers & protective clothing are also best practices. Barn cats and other pets should not be allowed to enter the quarantine area.
If you have a number new or returning horses in quarantine and one shows signs of illness, it should be further separated into isolation and seen by a veterinarian ASAP. Horses should remain in isolation until cleared by the vet, as the horse may have recovered from clinical signs but still be infectious. Signage once again should alert unauthorized persons at the entrance of any areas used for isolation or quarantine.
Not Sharing is Caring and Hygiene Practices: Of course, those new or returning horses should be housed in a stall that has been both cleaned and disinfected prior to their arrival.
Cleaning involves removing all visible manure, bedding and soil before washing the area with soap and water and then allowing it to dry. Apply a disinfectant such as Virkon or
BIOSECURITY (continued)
other disinfectant recommended by your veterinarian. All disinfectants have strengths and weaknesses and are best used for specific purposes. Bleach has drawbacks as hard water can affect its effectiveness, it can be inactivated by organic material, and it can be irritating to the horse. Steer clear of pressure washers as they can aerosolize certain viruses.
An often-misused step, if you will pardon the pun, is the foot bath. One cannot just walk through without first going through the same routine as mentioned above, both cleaning and disinfecting. First remove debris from the footwear, including the soles using a brush or hose to get all the dirt out of the treads. Immerse the entire bottom of footwear in the disinfectant and scrub. Following the contact time on the product label is important and a dirty footbath does little in the way of boosting biosecurity. Then wash your hands. Other options include dedicated footwear and disposable shoe covers.
Hand hygiene cannot be overstated as one of the most important infection control measures. Best practices on application time for the soap or alcohol-based sanitizer is 20 – 30 seconds.
Everyone knows not to share communal water, but it is also important not to become blasé about biosecurity when it comes to filling or refilling water buckets. Submersing a hose from one bucket to the next or letting it touch the buckets can be a free ride for a pathogen looking for its next host. So instead of multi-tasking while filling buckets, one could be enjoying a beverage with their free hand.
Not sharing should extend beyond grooming equipment to tack, pads, blankets, and of course medical supplies like syringes, needles and dewormers.
More disease prevention measures include minimizing the presence of rodents and insects by keeping feed secure, eliminating standing water and regular removal of manure from stalls and paddocks and as well as management of manure storage areas.
Vaccination: Vaccination is a crucial aspect of equine healthcare, but vaccines do not provide immediate protection; it can take days or weeks for a horse to develop optimal immunity after vaccination, so timing is very important. Planning ahead will allow vaccines to be given well in advance of the next stressor such as travelling or competition.
While no vaccine boasts 100% immunity, horse owners can rest assured that they are taking proactive steps to maintain their horse’s health, minimizing the risk of unexpected veterinary expenses. Vaccines significantly reduce the risk of disease which means if a vaccinated horses does get sick, they will generally experience milder symptoms and recover more quickly.
Working closely with a veterinarian to develop and maintain a vaccination program is an important step for optimal equine health. In addition to core vaccinations, your vet will know what diseases are endemic and emerging in
your region or regions you will be travelling to. The frequency of your vaccinations or boosters will depend on a number of factors including special circumstances, such as an extended vector season or even a significant wound if it is incurred over 6 months after a Tetanus shot. The length of your competition season may also necessitate a booster of certain shots to maintain optimal immunity.
Emerging Diseases: Infection control specialist Dr. Weese says, “Understanding potential mechanisms of transmission is the basis of any infection control or biosecurity program.”
Most diseases in horses are caused by pathogens that mainly infect horses. They can spread continuously without needing long-term hosts (like the equine flu virus). They can remain in the horse without causing symptoms for a long time (like Strangles). Some cause infections that can come back at any time (like equine herpesvirus). Others may be part of the normal bacteria in horses but can cause disease if given the chance (like staphylococci and Enterobacteriaceae).
Horses can spread these germs even if they seem healthy, before showing symptoms, after recovering, or as part of their normal bacteria. This makes it hard to identify which horses are infectious. Some symptoms, like fever and diarrhea, strongly suggest an infection, but any horse can potentially spread germs. Therefore, it’s important to have strong infection control practices to manage the risk.
In 2024, the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) reported 577 Alerts for 813 confirmed cases of disease in North America. The most frequently reported disease was Strangles with 186 cases. Because Strangles is not reportable in all states or provinces the disease is likely much more prevalent than reported to the EDCC. Other frequently reported illnesses include: 153 West Nile Virus (WNV), 125 Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), 109 Equine Infectious Anemia, 73 Equine Herpesvirus- Neurologic, 8 Equine Herpesvirus- Respiratory, 34 Equine Influenza.
To ensure effective infection control, it is crucial to maintain a proactive approach starting right in the barn with a plan. Implementing access management, enforcing proper quarantine protocols for new and returning horses, and thoroughly training everyone who enters the property or handles the horses are essential steps. By taking these practical steps, we can significantly reduce the risk of infections and promote a healthier environment for all.
Jackie Bellamy-Zions is an Equine Canada Certified Level 2 Eventing Coach and "r" Dressage Judge. She is a member of the Communications & Administration Team at the University of Guelph in Canada. Equine Guelph is the epicentre for academia, industry and government – for the good of the equine industry as a whole. For further information, visit www.equineguelph.ca. You can email Jackie directly at: english_coach@yahoo.ca.
ASSOCIATIONS
OUTSTANDING CLUBS
(IN) APHA NEWS
The APHA Club of Distinction award recognize clubs that make outstanding contributions to the Paint Horse community, and this year, three deserving clubs are being honored. The Carolina Paint Horse Club, Southwest Washington Paint Horse Club and New England Paint Horse Club demonstrated the most growth overall in 2024 and are being honored by APHA.
2025 Clubs of Distinction include:
• Gold Star: The Carolina Paint Horse Club demonstrated 886% growth in 2024. That included 397% increase in entries, 234% increase in total unique horses at their events, and 255% growth in exhibitors at their events.
• Silver Star: The Southwest Washington Paint Horse Club had 464% growth in 2024. That included 147% growth in entries, 167% increase in total horses and 150% increase in exhibitors.
• Bronze Star: The New England Paint Horse Club had 238% total growth. That included 152% increase in entries, 43% growth in horses, and 43% growth in exhibitors. They also earned extra points for hosting activities that aligned with the APHA Strategic Plan pillars.
To be eligible for awards, clubs must have submitted required materials to APHA by March 1. APHA reviewed data to calculate the total number of unique horses, exhibitors and entries at club shows and trail rides during the past year. Additional weighted points were awarded based on active Youth engagement, public engagement and collaboration with other organizations, based on submitted materials.
The three 2025 APHA Clubs of Distinction each receive a gift card to the PH Barn Door: the Gold Star winner receives a $750 gift card, the Silver Star winner receives a $500 gift card, and the Bronze Star winner receives a $250 gift card. Each club winner also receives a free ad in the Paint Horse Journal, free hospitality cart recognition at the APHA World Championship Show or Halter Million, an official award seal for marketing purposes and other recognition perks.
LIMITED DIVISION ADDED
AQHA EXPANDS PLEASURE VERSATILITY CHALLENGE AT WORLD SHOW
The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Pleasure Versatility Challenge, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 15, during the 2025 AQHA World Championship Show will include a Limited Division this year for the first time.
The AQHA Pleasure Versatility Challenge showcases some of the most talented 3-year-old American Quarter Horses as they demonstrate their versatility in the show pen. It is expected to have more than a total of $50,000 in purse and prizes.
The VS Code Blue and VS Goodride Pleasure Versatility Challenge Limited Division, featured within the event, is possible thanks to an additional $5,000 sponsorship, provided by Katherine and G.W. Tobin in the name of their stallions.
“We are absolutely thrilled to partner with AQHA and the Pleasure Versatility Challenge to create a limited division for this outstanding event,” said Katherine. “This competition offers an incredible opportunity to kickstart young horses' careers in the all-around events and we are excited to create an additional opportunity for Limited exhibitors."
Exhibitors eligible for Level 2 competition in both Western Riding and Trail for this year’s AQHA World Championship Show will be considered limited-division-eligible for the Pleasure Versatility Challenge. The highest-placing PVC limited exhibitors will make their mounts eligible for the $5,000 purse, regardless of where they place in the overall Pleasure Versatility Challenge placings. In addition, a trophy saddle provided by Blue Ribbon Custom Tack will also go to the winner. Those who have won the overall Pleasure Versatility Challenge, both in the past and moving forward, are not eligible for Pleasure
Versatility Challenge Limited-Division payouts. National Snaffle Bit Association Quarter Million Dollar Club exhibitors are also not eligible for the Limited Division. Based on the number of eligible exhibitors, up to four placings will be paid out from the $5,000 sponsorship as follows: 40 percent, 30 percent, 20 percent and 10 percent.
Horses competing during the AQHA Pleasure Versatility Challenge are shown sequentially in three classes: a pattern class consisting of a blending of simplified Trail and Western Riding maneuvers, which counts 40 percent a Western pleasure class, which counts 40 percent and a conformation class, which counts 20 percent.
All rules and eligibility are to remain the same in 2025 as they were for the 2024 event. Again, specific to the Pleasure Versatility Challenge Limited Division, there will be a payout to the horses exhibited by top-four-placing eligible exhibitors. Horses cannot be shown astride in any Western Riding, Trail or any similar Pleasure Versatility Challenge event prior to the AQHA World Championship Show official entry deadline of Sept. 15. Beginning on the official World Show entry deadline and thereafter, horses can be shown without restriction at any competition (including the All American Quarter Horse Congress) without forfeiting Pleasure Versatility Challenge eligibility. There are no eligibility restrictions for the Western Pleasure or Conformation classes. Money earned at the Pleasure Versatility Challenge does not accrue against AQHA leveling eligibility.
For additional information on the Pleasure Versatility Challenge visit www.AQHA.com.
