Photos by Kirstie Marie, Shane Rux &Cody Parmenter
FEATURES
HALL OF FAME: EQUINE ASSOCIATIONS
ANNOUNCE NEW INDUCTEES 19-24
By Corrine S. Borton
Photos by KC Montgomery, Kelly Graphics, Shane Rux, Rick Childress, Cody Parmenter & Probity Photography
EVENTS
FUN IN THE SUN FUTURITY/FOX LEA CIRCUIT: OVER $50,000 AWARDED IN VENICE, FLORIDA 30-32
By Corrine S. Borton
Photos by Jeff Kirkbride & Steven Peltzer
PROFILES
AMATEURS 36-37
Jenna Seppa
YOUTH 40-41
Brayden Stine
REGULAR COLUMNS
“INSIDE” LAW 43-44
By
Katherine Jarve
“INSIDE” HEALTH 47
By Jordan Strickler
51
2026
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Shane Rux
In many instances the term “wild card” refers to something or someone that is unpredictable. But Wild Cardd, the hot young stallion sired by Makin Me Willy Wild out of Ms Miracle Zip, is anything but.
“Perhaps his greatest attribute is that he is just a true show horse and always has been,” said Lexie Arrington. “When he goes into the pen, he turns it on and locks in. He really makes it so much fun to show.”
Lexie and her husband, Justin Clay Arrington, of Burleson, Texas, have had Wild Cardd, now a 5-year-old, since he was just two, when his breeder, Paul Thurston, sent him to them to get started under saddle, as part of a partnership.
“When we started him we all knew he was special,” Lexie said. “He was very smart, freaky legged and had a lot of try. Not to mention he was just beautiful. Even in what should have been his
gawky awkward stage, he was just so correct and so handsome.”
Lexie got the opportunity to ride Wild Cardd around a bit at a horse show in Venice, Florida, early in the training process but then let Clay focus on his development.
Wild Cardd’s success in the show pen in 2024 was nothing short of amazing. He and Clay were Reserve Circuit Champions in Level 2 Junior Western Pleasure at The Madness in Wilmington, Ohio and tied for third in the 3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure. At the Quarter Horse Congress they placed in the Top 10 in Green Western Pleasure and the top 15 in the Junior Western Pleasure. They capped off the year with a World Championship title in the Green Western Pleasure Stakes class at the American Quarter Horse Association World Show and Reserve in the Level 2 3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure. s
Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Kirstie Marie, Shane Rux & Cody Parmenter
But if you think 2024 was impressive for Wild Cardd, wait until you hear about everything he accomplished in 2025.
The year got started in early February at the Prairie Classic AQHA Circuit in Oklahoma City where Lexie rode Wild Cardd to a Circuit Championship in Amateur Western Pleasure. From there they headed to Scottsdale, Arizona for the Sun Circuit where Lexie and Wild Cardd captured a Championship title in the Open and Limited divisions of the Non-Pro 3 & 4-Year-Old Western Pleasure. They also won the West Coast Breeders Championship title in Level 2 Amateur Western Pleasure and were named Circuit Champions in in Level 2 Amateur Western Pleasure. Later that summer Clay and Wild Card won Circuit Championships in Level 2 Junior Western Pleasure at both the Stars N Stripes Circuit and the Big A Circuit in Conyers, Georgia. Not to be outdone, Lexie piloted Wild Cardd to Circuit Championship in both circuits and won the Non-Pro Western Pleasure Maturity at the Big A as well.
In August the Arringtons arrived in Tulsa, Oklahoma with a mission to show the industry what they already knew about Wild Cardd.
“He LOVES winning,” Lexie admitted. “He literally knows when he wins. When he wins, he always has to do his head shake and little hop into his lope off when he lopes out of the line up. And he ONLY does it when he wins.”
There was a lot of that at the National Snaffle Bit Association’s World Championship.
Teamed with Lexie, Wild Cardd won the Maturity Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure as well as the $10,000 Limited Horse Non-Pro Maturity. Clay and Wild Cardd earned bronze trophies in both the Junior Western Pleasure and the $10,000 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure.
exceptionally well. As soon as you go through the gate, he puts his ears up and goes into show mode. I would lope him all day long if I could. It was really fulfilling for us to win twice at the NSBA.”
But the show year was not over yet for Wild Cardd. Clay and young stallion captured two Quarter Horse Congress Championships, in the Limited Open Western Pleasure Maturity and in the $10,000 Limited Horse Limited Rider Open Western Pleasure. They were also third in the
$10,000 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure. Lexie and Wild Cardd were Reserve Champions in the Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure Maturity and top five in the NonPro Western Pleasure Maturity.
“It was really surreal watching Clay win a Congress Championship with him,” Lexie said. “Clay has been a part of this stallion since the very start and Wild Cardd has been in our program so long he just feels like a part of our family.”
Wild Cardd is now taking a
“I really have so much fun showing him,” Lexie said. “He showed great for me there. He knows his job, and does it ttt
Wild Cardd is pictured above with Lexie Arrington and above right with Clay Arrington. Inset (top to bottom): Clay and Wild Cardd at the 2024 AQHA World Show and Lexie with Wild Cardd at the 2025 NSBA World Show.
break from showing to stand at stud at Highpoint Performance Horses in Pilot Point, Texas. But he will return to the pen later this year.
While they wait, Clay and Lexie will welcome the very first two Wild Cardd foals in late April and early May.
“Clay and I have one coming out of our RL mare that is out of Sweet Talkin Maggie,” she said. “We are really excited about this cross as we are curious to see how he produces with the RL line. The mare is also beautiful and built really well so it should be a very pretty baby for sure. Paul Thurston also has a mare bred to Wild Cardd by the name of Gettin
Pretty Cool, who is by Cool Breeze out of Gettin Pretty, who has $75,000 in earnings; an open Superior Award and over 250 points.”
Lexie admits that being a stallion owner is not something she and Clay set out to do but they are learning along the way.
“We always say we are junior stallion owners with a junior stallion and we’re just figuring it out together,” she said. “No one writes a ‘How-To’ book on owning and promoting a stallion so formulating a strong support team behind Wild Cardd has always been our top priority, along with trying to be fair and easy to work with. We know breeding is hard enough as it is
so we want to do the best we can to help.”
Once his breeding commitments are fulfilled Wild Cardd will return to the show pen. Clay and Lexie will continue showing him in Western Pleasure.
“At some point, I would love to add Western Riding, as he is a fantastic lead changer but time will tell,” she explained. “At the end of the day, we will do whatever is best for him and his happiness.”
Wild Cardd’s 2026 stud fee is $2,000 which includes the $600 chute fee. Domestic shipping is $350. World and Congress Champion mares receive a $500 discount. Trainer-owned mares also receive a $500 discount and there is a $500 discount for multiple mares. Wild Cardd foals are eligible for the following programs: NSBA SIF and BCF; Super Sires; Premier Sires; APHA Breeders Trust; Southern Belle Breeders; Roans To Riches; Coast To Coast Breeders; Michigan Quarter Horse Futurity and the Iowa Quarter Horse Futurity.
For additional information contact Breeding Manager Christi Christensen at (903) 816-1428 or email her at Christi@HighpointPerformance@gma il.com.
American Quarter Horse Association
Six individuals and horses whose influence has helped shape the American Quarter Horse industry will join the prestigious list of Hall Of Fame inductees this year. The Class of 2026 will be honored during the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame Induction & Reunion Celebration Sept. 11-12, 2026, in Amarillo, Texas.
The Class of 2026 includes three AQHA members and three horses: AQHA Professional Horseman Bobby Lewis, AQHA’s first international member Cesar Pedrero, AQHA Past President Floyd E. “Butch” Wise, Dollie Pine, WR This Cats Smart and Runaway Wave.
Dollie Pine
AQHA Champion Dollie Pine, who was by Poco Pine and out of Hobo Sue by Hobo, shares a lineage like no other. Her pedigree includes American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame members Traveler, Zantanon, Poco Bueno and King P-234. The 1960 mare, who was bred by Hall of Fame member Paul Curtner and owned by Harold Mills, produced 14 foals that earned four open AQHA Champion titles, five open performance Registers of Merit and three open Superiors. Her progeny includes the great Zippo Pine Bar. Her grandprogeny includes Zips Chocolate Chip and Zippos Mr Goodbar. She also has great-grandson A Good Machine; and great-greatgrandson Harley D Zip.
WR This Cats Smart
WR This Cats Smart, who earned more than $200,000 in National Cutting Horse Association competition, has sired 1,574 registered American Quarter Horses as of the end of February 2026, with collective earnings of more than $19.5 million in cutting, reining, working cow horse, roping, ranch horse and timed-event competition. Bred by Wiens Ranch Company Inc. of Sedalia, Colorado, WR This Cats Smart was owned by the AQHA Best Remuda Award-winning Wagonhound Land & Livestock of Douglas, Wyoming, which is also an AQHA Ranching Heritage Breeder. This stallion has made a significant impact on the ranch’s remuda and performance-horse programs nationwide.
Runaway Wave
The 2005 AQHA Broodmare of the Year, Runaway Wave became an AQHA Dam of Distinction in 2007. By Runaway Winner, a race sire of earners of over $13 million, and out of the Thoroughbred mare In The Curl, Runaway Wave earned nearly $80,000 on the track. But as her breeding awards illustrate, her bigger success has been in producing 46 American Quarter Horse foals that have won 88 races, earned more than $4 million and one AQHA racing world champion title. In 2015, she became the all-time AQHA Leading Broodmare by Progeny Earnings, a title she held through 2021. She is currently second on that list. Her progeny includes champions Ocean Runaway and Wave Carver, who each have earnings of more than $1 million. She was bred by Allison and Daniel Lucas of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and is owned by Daniel and Michelle Lucas of Portland, Tennessee.
Bobby Lewis
Butch Wise
AQHA Past President and bloodstock agent Floyd E. “Butch” Wise of El Reno, Oklahoma, has been a long-time director and has served on several AQHA committees, including the AQHA Stud Book and Registration Committee and Racing Council. Wise has earned more than $1 million on horses he has owned outright and in partnership. He is also a past president of the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing Association and has been inducted into the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing and Remington Park halls of fame.
American Paint HorseAssociation
During his career, AQHA Professional Horseman Bobby Lewis of Overbrook, Oklahoma, has won 38 AQHA World Championships on 32 horses, as well as 30,794.5 AQHA points across 18 events. Lewis showed Genuine Redbud to the 1995 AQHA Superhorse title at the AQHA World Championship Show and was part of the team that showed Reprise Bar to the 1984 Superhorse title. Lewis was also the breeder of Real Gun, the 2004 AQHA Superhorse. Lewis, who is an AQHA 40-year cumulative breeder, has total earnings from breeding American Quarter Horses exceeding $3 million. He was inducted into the National Cutting Horse Hall of Fame in 2006.
Cesar Pedrero
An AQHA member since 1968, Cesar Pedrero of Mexico was the first international member of AQHA and co-founded the Mexican Quarter Horse association in 1968. A 40-year cumulative American Quarter Horse breeder, Cesar also produced the first American Quarter Horse halter show in Mexico in 1970. Along with that, he introduced Quarter Horse racing to Mexico in 1983, where the futurities and derbies grow in their continued success. Pedrero was the owner of two Mexican champion racehorses, Stage Door Smash in 1988 and Passem Glass in 1992. Pedrero is also in two halls of fame in Mexico for his work in the equine industry.
The 2026 APHA Hall of Fame class includes three outstanding Paint Horses and two notable couples. They will be honored June 25, in Fort Worth, Texas, as part of the APHA Hall of Fame & Awards Celebration.
John Simon
This 2006 bay tobiano stallion dominated the Western pleasure pen and more. A 17-time world champion in Western pleasure, halter and trail, “John” captured 2,032 lifetime points. He has sired over 300 foals, who have earned over 10,000 APHA points and 34 world and reserve world championship titles.
Gallant Zippo
A noted show horse, “Gilly” carried a generation of exhibitors through the APHA show ring, teaching them to build a connection, trust the process and lead with grace. The 2007 chestnut overo gelding earned 5,596.5 APHA points, s
including 10 world championships, eight reserve world championships and multiple No.1 year-end titles.
Texas Hero
Texas Hero was bred and born on Herb and Ginger Graham’s farm, in Gardendale, Texas. Sired by Raise A Jet out of a mare they purchased from R. D. Hubbard, Breakaway Baby, who was a half-sister to Lord Winsalot, the 1976 Quarter Horse World Champion 2-Year-Old Gelding who earned more than $400,000 during his career. Texas Hero was her second foal. Her first foal was Raise Cash, who earned the 1992 APHA Champion Breeding Stock 2-Year-Old award. A legendary racehorse and impactful sire, Texas Hero earned over $100,000 on the track, racking up 18 wins in 22 starts during his two-year running career. With just over 400 foals, Texas Hero has progeny race earnings over $3.3 million.
Viggo & Annette Mortensen
Dedicated Paint breeders since 1988, Viggo and Annette Mortensen established an impactful legacy throughout Denmark and Europe. Viggo helped found the Danish Paint Horse Club, and both are talented exhibitors. From educational clinics and events hosted at their Circle M Farm to countless accolades earned by their horses throughout Europe, the couple has made a lasting impact on APHA worldwide.
Travis & Lynn Titlow
Starting with a single mare, Travis and Lynn Titlow expanded upon their love of Paint Horses to create a West Coast breeding program that produced World Show-caliber mounts for Youth, Amateur and Open exhibitors alike. Travis and Lynn served as local and national leaders, successful exhibitors and Paint promoters for over 40 years. Travis was APHA president in 2011.
The APHA Hall of Fame recognizes the outstanding people and horses that have made extraordinary contributions to the association, the Paint Horse breed and the equine industry as a whole. Recognition as an APHA Hall of Fame inductee is the highest honor awarded by APHA.
Each year, a new Hall of Fame class is inducted as part of an awards ceremony taking place at the APHA World Championship Show in Fort Worth, Texas.
Pinto Hall Of Fame
The Pinto Horse Association of America recently announced the 2026 inductees into the association’s Hall of Fame. They include two horses and nine individuals.
Horses honored this year include Flasha Litenin Bug and Ready Made Cash.
Individual inductees include:
• Barbara Newland-Hulsey, Women of Inspiration Award.
• Bob Alberding, Mcmillian-Manuel Legacy Ring Steward Award.
• Jenny LaGrange, Judges Hall of Fame
• Jill Paxton, Judges Hall of Fame.
• Kaylee Clagett, Professional Horsewoman.
• Linda Kreig, Individual Hall of Fame.
• Mark Timke, Professional Horseman.
• Full Moon Chuckwagon, Past President’s Bronze Boot Award.
• Annette Pitcher, President’s Hall of Fame.
National Snaffle Bit Association
National Snaffle Bit Association recently announced the individuals and horses who will be inducted into the NSBA Hall Of Fame for 2026. Honorees include Highpoint Performance Horses, represented by Charlie Cole and Jason Martin, Show Horse Look N Hott, Breeding Stallion Its a Southern Thing and Breeding Mare Zippin The Breeze. The 2026 NSBA Hall Of Fame class will be inducted during the NSBA Honors Banquet, which will take place on Sunday, August 16, as part of the 2026 NSBA World Championship Show and Breeders Championship Futurity, held August 1323, 2026, at the Built Ford Tough Livestock Complex at Expo Square in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Look N Hott - Show Horse Category
Sired by Hot N Blazing and out of Regal Marie (by Regal Lark), the 2007 bay gelding known as “JJ” is forever linked to his longtime owner, Laurel Champlin. Bred and raised by the Bernhard family, JJ captured three class wins at the 2010 NSBA World Championship Show with Alisa Bern-
hard Proefrock aboard. Later teaming with Laurel, her daughter Cassidy and trainer Beth Case, JJ went on to earn $91,389.50 in NSBA earnings, 12 NSBA world championships and three Breeders Championship Futurity titles. His resume also includes 13 AQHA World Championships, spanning Junior and Senior Hunter Under Saddle, Amateur Hunter Under Saddle and Amateur Hunt Seat Equitation, as well as 13 Quarter Horse Congress championships. JJ amassed 441.5 AQHA Amateur points, 309.5 AQHA Open points and more than $100,000 in AQHA lifetime earnings. Zippin The Breeze - Breeding Category, Mare
The late Zippin The Breeze was a 1999 AQHA mare by A Passing Breeze and out of Fancy Zippin (by Zippo Pine Bar) and was owned by Kathryn Frederck. She earned $16,672 in NSBA earnings before becoming an exceptional broodmare. Of her 19 foals, 18 were AQHA performers who went on to earn $763,000 in total earnings as well as 4,970 AQHA points. Just a few of her successful offspring include Only Ever After, Wine After Whiskey, The Aftermath, Made After Hours, Happy Ever After, Only After You, Only A Breeze, Knockin It Out, Only A Summer Breeze, Invite Me Breeze, Zippin A Breeze, Shootin The Breeze, Only Intuition, Endless Breeze, Cool Breeze, Gentlemen Only and Geez Whata Breeze. Zippin The Breeze was the leading dam of money earners in 2021. In addition, several of Zippin The Breeze’s daughters have also continued her legacy through their own success in the breeding shed. s
Its A Southern Thing
Its A Southern Thing, known throughout the equine industry as ‘Moonpie,’ Its A Southern Thing was a 2010 AQHA stallion by Only in The Moonlite and out of Shesa Hot Cookie (by Zips Chocolate Chip). He was bred and owned by Gumz Farms LLC.
During his show career, Moonpie earned 181.5 AQHA points in Western Riding, Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle and Halter. He continued that success in the breeding shed by become a leading sire whose offspring have earned more than $1.6 million in total earnings and more than 26,100 AQHA points that include 22 AQHA Champion awards as well as six world championships.
Among his many famous foals include Perfectly Southern, If It Aint Southern, Itsa Southern Belle, If it Aint Dixie, Sure Am Southern, Southbound And Down, Im Simply Southern, Talk Southern To Me, Shes So Southern, Enticed, Ten Kinda Southern, Dun Gone Southern, Justa Touch Southern, Southern Dream, Bestseatnthesouth, Kruzn South, Kickin Dust Up, Made In The South, Dancin N Themoonlite, Slow Like Molasses, Slow Southern Drawl, Real Southern Assets, Its a Pretty Thing and R C Kola.
Charlie Cole & Jason Martin - Individual Category
Two Californians, Charlie Cole and Jason Martin, formed Highpoint Performance Horses in 1992 in their native state before moving their training business to Pilot Point, Texas, making their impact on the horse industry with a special emphasis on All Around events.
Together they have bred, purchased and trained multiple NSBA and AQHA Hall Of Fame horses and taken countless Youth and Amateur riders to national and world titles, as well as campaigned to win five AQHA Super Horse titles with three different horses.
Martin and Cole brought a new, organic approach to the Western Riding discipline that resulted in 18 AQHA Senior Western Riding world championships between them. In addition, their approach to animal welfare has mirrored the philosophy of NSBA, with their emphasis on the health, happiness and wellbeing of all their horses and many that remained under their care even into retirement.
Martin was inducted into the NSBA Quarter Million Dollar Club in 2018, and Cole reached the same milestone in 2022.
Over
$50,000 in cash & prizes awarded at 2026 Florida event
Text Corrine S. Borton Photos Jeff Kirkbride & Brian Pelzer
Over $50,000 in cash and prizes was awarded at the 11th Annual Fun In The Sun Futurity and Fox Lea Farm’s Winter Circuit in Venice, Florida Jan. 3-11.
Futurity winners this year included: Western Pleasure
Maturity Non Pro Western Pleasure (13 shown) – Champion: Made Like No Other, owned by Mr. & Mrs. William Wilkes, shown by Melissa Wilkes, $320.
Maturity Open Western Pleasure (12 shown) – Champion: Made Like No Other, owned by Mr. & Mrs. William Wilkes, shown by Kenny Lakins, $510.
3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure (11 shown) – Champion: Lookn Like Trouble, owned by Justin & Julie Voge, shown by Angie Cannizzaro, $510.
Maturity Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure (10 shown) – Champion: Certainly Persistent, owned by Richard & Betty Carr, shown by Richard Carr, $340.
$5,000 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure (8 shown) – Champion: Makin Me In Lace, owned by Sherry Lynn Napier, shown by Kenny Lakins, $1,000.
Maturity $10,000 Limited Horse Open Western Pleasure (7 shown) – Champion: The Glow Getter, owned by Michele Reid, shown by Jamie Hartman, $5,540.
3-Year-Old Limited Open Western Pleasure (6 shown) –Champion: Icee Hott, owned by Stephanie Janis, shown by Ricky Noiseux, $225.
Green Western Pleasure (6 shown) – Champion: Speck It Out, owned by Chuck or Janna Olsen, shown by Angie Cannizzaro, $225. Novice 50 & Over Western Pleasure (5 shown) – Champion: Tom Cruize, owned by Canyon Road Ranch, shown by Nancy Mowrey, $112.50.
50 & Over Non-Pro Western Pleasure (5 shown) – Champion: Certainly Persistent, owned by Richard & Betty Carr, shown by Richard Carr.
3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure (4 shown) – Champion: Lookn Like Trouble, owned by Justin & Julie Voge, shown by Justin Voge, $300.
4 & 5-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure (7 shown) –Champion: Cool Liike Me, owned by Debby Brehm, shown by Katie Green, $400.
Maturity Limited Open Western Pleasure (5 shown) –Champion: Made Olive You Look, owned by Looney Quarter Horses LLC, shown by Carmen Mayabb, $450.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure (5 shown) –Champion: Lookn Like Trouble, owned by Justin & Julie Voge, shown by Justin Voge, $225.
The 2025 Fun In The Sun Futurity was held Jan. 3-11 in conjunction with the Fox Lea Farm Winter Circuit in Venice, Florida. Competitors traveled from all over the United States and Canada to compete in classes ranging from Western Pleasure to Hunter Under Saddle and from Trail and Pleasure Driving. Pictured on the opposite page (bottom) is Melissa Wilkes and Made Like No Other, winners of the NonPro Western Pleasure Maturity. On this page (top) Anthony Montes guides Whats The Good Word to a win in the 6-Year-Old & Over Open Trail. Below that (left) Kenny Lakins and Made Like No Other, winners of the Carl Yamber Memorial Open Western Pleasure and Cool Liike Me and Katie Green, winners of the Susan Scott Memorial 4 & 5-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure.
All-Age Novice NonPro Western Pleasure (2 shown) – Champion: Made To Imagine, owned and shown by Ashley Muenchen, $250.
Carl Yamber Memorial Maturity Open Western Pleasure – Champion: Made Like No Other, owned by Mr. and Mrs. William Wilkes, shown by Kenny Lakins, $510.
Susan Scott Memorial 4 & 5-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure - Champion: Cool Liike Me, owned by Debby Brehm, shown by Katie Green, $400
Hunter Under Saddle
3-Year-Old Open Hunter Under Saddle (8 shown) –Champion: Better Invy The Best, owned by Amanda Mozel, shown by Amber Hanson Pickard, $400.
Maturity Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle (8 shown): Champion: You Proof, owned and shown by Haley Hartman, $400.
Maturity Open Hunter Under Saddle (8 shown) –Champion: You Proof, owned by Haley Hartman, shown by Dawn Baker, $200.
Maturity Limited Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle (7 shown) - Champion: Im The Greater Good, owned and shown by Erin Nicole Duquette, $200.
Green Hunter Under Saddle (5 shown) – Champion: Better InvyThe Best, owned by Amanda Mozel, shown by Amber Hanson Pickard, $450.
3-Year-Old Limited Open Hunter Under Saddle (2 s
shown) – Let The Rumors Fly, owned by Amy Walls, shown by Danielle Mego, $500.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle (4 shown) – Champion: Better Invy The Best, owned and shown by Amanda Mozel, $225.
Trail
6-Year-Old & Over Open Trail (11 shown) – Champion: Whats The Good Word, owned by Katie Patterson, shown by Anthony Montes, $340.
50 & Over Non-Pro Trail (9 shown) – Champion: Stillrockinthehouse, owned and shown by Becky Crider Durrett, $200.
Green Trail (7 shown) – Champion: Slow Like Molasses, owned by Stephanie Janis, shown by Jessica Noiseux, $200.
5-Year-Old & Under Open Trail (6 shown) – Champion: Code Her Blue, owned by Jenny Duda LaGrange, shown by Shannon Curl Holbin, $225.
All-Age Novice Non-Pro Trail (6 shown) – Champion: Solid Aza Rock, owned and shown by Jennifer Ann Krist, $225.
All-Age Non-Pro Trail (5 shown) – Champion: It Comes So Easy, owned by Stephanie Janis, shown by Sabrina Alexandra Janis, $225. Novice Horse Open Trail (3 shown) – Champion: Guirarz N Cadillacz, owned by Rusty & Katie Green, shown by Nick Mayabb, $600. Pleasure Driving
All-Age Open Pleasure Driving (2 shown) – Champion: The Best Of Thymes, owned by Rodger Call, shown by Chuck Briggs, $300.
Amateur Pleasure Driving (1 shown) – Champion: Life Iz Good, owned and shown by Terri Brewer Booth, $300.
Pictured on this page is Better Envy The Best (top) winning the 3-Year-Old Open Hunter Under Saddle with Amber Hanson Pickard in the irons; Terri Brewer Booth and Life Iz Good (below that right), winners of the Amateur Pleasure Driving; and some scenes from this year’s event.
J�na S�pa
Journey to success has been long, winding for North Carolina competitor
Text
For Jennifer “Jenna” Seppa, the path to the winner’s circle at the American Paint Horse Association World Show wasn't a straight line. It was a journey that wound through the stables of her Florida childhood, a period of homelessness in her early 20s, and the transient life of a Marine Corps spouse. Now 38, Seppa is a study in resilience, balancing a corporate career in insurance with her own business, Seppa’s Equine Solutions LLC, while chasing national titles in the amateur show ring. Born and raised in Florida, Seppa’s introduction to the horse world was a matter of lucky geography. At age 4, her father, James, a financial director for several large auto dealerships, and her stepmother, Cheryl, an accountant and
mathematics teacher, enrolled her in a daycare in Fort Walton Beach called T.L.C. In the back of the facility sat a stable of horses.
“It was an immediate addiction,” Seppa said. “My family is not ‘horsey’ at all. From there it grew; we started Hunter Jumper lessons at other farms and I showed all over the state of Florida and a few other states as well.”
She spent her youth pitching softball and riding, eventually competing at the Silver Sands Bridle Club on a Thoroughbred named Go Man Go. However, the stability provided by the barn vanished when she was 19. Her horse passed away, and without that anchor, Seppa’s life took a detour. She had already dropped out of high school in
Courtney B. Ament Photos Steven Pelzner & Andrew Ryback
the 10th grade, and the loss of her equine partner led to what she describes as typical young adult antics and rebellion.
The following years were the most difficult of her life. A few years before meeting her husband, Seppa found herself homeless.
“I made a lot of bad decisions as a young adult,” she admitted. “I worked on myself, made changes to my behaviors and improved my life. I don’t regret any of it, all of the bad things that have happened in my life led me to this exact moment. I am forever grateful for all of those hard lessons I had to learn to grow into who I am today.”
The turning point came in 2015 when she met Michael Seppa, now a Gunnery Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps, through Tinder. Their relationship was forged through the traditional military crucible: Michael deployed just a few months after they met. They sustained their connection through handwritten letters and emails until he returned.
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“Once he was home we did the typical Marine Corps thing and got married at the courthouse,” Seppa said. “It’ll be 10 years this October.”
The nomadic life of a military family took them from North Carolina to Wisconsin and then to Hawaii. Through the moves, Seppa’s focus remained on her growing family. She is the mother of two daughters: Adelaide, 8, and Amelia, 3.
In 2017, after the birth of her first daughter, Seppa reached a crossroads. Seeking an identity beyond motherhood, she returned to her roots. She took a job working nights and weekends for a local American Paint Horse Association (APHA) and American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) breeding barn. It was here that she traded the Hunter Jumper world for the world of Western and English Pleasure horses.
Her return to the show ring was marked by a gamble on a palomino overo named Glocked N Loaded, bred by Reese Phillips of Tear Drop Farms. Despite skeptics who told her that judges "didn't like yellow," Seppa trained the horse for the longe line herself.
The risk paid off. In 2020, she took "Glock" to the Pinto World Show. Despite the horse pulling a muscle just before the APHA World Show, he recovered to become the Reserve World Champion in both the Open and Non-Pro Hunter Yearling Longe Line. Glock eventually moved into under-saddle classes, where Seppa won her first Non-Pro Walk-Trot class.
“Learning motivates me,” Seppa said. “I never realized how much I truly did not know until I started showing Paints. It’s not just one class; each class is so different from the others. It’s so fun to learn each class and grow as a rider. That’s the best thing about horses: you can master one thing but still continue to grow and learn and improve.”
Today, Seppa operates out of Jacksonville, North Carolina, where Michael is currently stationed. She balances a high-stakes job on a Dedicated Accounts team for an insurance company with her own venture, Seppa’s Equine Solutions LLC. Her company focuses on the online marketing and sales of APHA and AQHA pleasure horses, utilizing the digital savvy she developed during her years away from the physical barn.
Her current partner in the arena is Remember It All (Deja), a 10-year-old mare, sired by All Time Fancy out of Remember Roses. Deja entered Seppa’s life during a moment of frustration with a younger, greener horse.
Jenna Seppa is pictured on the opposite page with her current show horse, Remember It All. On this page Jenna and Deja are pictured at the APHA World Show and Deja is pictured with Jenna’s daughters, Amelia and Adelaide. APHA photo/Becky Ruehle s
“I had just gotten off my young horse and I was crying –normal baby horse Non-Pro rider things,” Seppa recalled. “My trainer Julie walked out of the barn with Deja and said, ‘Get on Deja, she will make you feel better.’ So I rode Deja and by the time I got off of her I was already scheming in my brain ways I could convince my husband I needed a horse like her.”
JENNA SEPPA (continued)
The purchase was a family decision. Michael agreed to the new addition on the condition that their daughter Adelaide could ride her safely. After a two-year hiatus from riding, the 8-yearold jumped on the mare in a crowded warm-up ring at the Holiday Classic and rode perfectly. The deal was sealed a week later.
Now training with Julie and Allan Schmidt of Dare to Dream Performance Horses in Wilson, North Carolina, Seppa is aiming for the APHA Top 20 Novice Amateur High Point title this year. The goal is pushing her into new territory, including showing in Showmanship and Horsemanship.
While the competition is fierce, Seppa’s perspective on the industry is tempered by her life experiences. She advocates for a culture of kindness and sportsmanship to attract new members.
“Be nice, help others even when no
one is looking,” Seppa said. “Do things with genuine intentions no matter what. Good sportsmanship, supporting any level of rider no matter what kind of horses they show or what level they ride at. We are all equal; we are all here because we love horses.”
Despite her success, Seppa remains grounded. When asked about her favorite vacation, she doesn't describe a luxury resort.
“My favorite vacation would be somewhere in the mountains, no cell phone service and no horse sales,” she said. “But let’s be real, I only ever end up at horse shows and call it a vacation.”
For Seppa, the horse show is more than a competition; it is the culmination of a decade spent rebuilding a life.
From the back of a daycare stable to the Reserve World Championship, her journey is proof that the most diffi-
cult lessons often lead to the most rewarding destinations.
“My number one goal is to be a good mother and wife,” Seppa said. “Besides that, I want to continue to do good business with integrity and help people find awesome horses.”
As the 2026 show season continues, Seppa will likely be found at her favorite venue, the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. It is a fitting return to her home state—a place where she started as a 4-year-old with a dream and where she now returns as a champion, a business owner and a matriarch.
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.
B�yd� Stine
For this successful young Ohio competitor winning is far from everything
Courtney B. Ament Photos Courtney B. Ament, Cody Parmenter & Shane Rux
In the extremely competitive arena of Western Pleasure, 15-yearold Brayden Stine is carving out a reputation that spans far beyond the dirt of the show arena.
A resident of Wooster, Ohio, Stine has transitioned from a casual rider to a national titleholder in just four years. Yet, for the young competitor, the blue ribbons and Congress jackets are secondary to a journey defined by faith, family and the mentorship of the industry's most respected trainers.
Stine’s entry into the show circuit began after a family visit to the Equine Affaire in Columbus. While his family always owned horses –his mother, Sam Stine, has been a lifelong rider – it was a clinic by trainer Jeff Geiger that sparked the transition into serious competition.
“My Mom is one of the biggest reasons I got into it,” Stine said. “My first show was the 2022 Youth Show in Columbus. We had gone with my mom essentially being my trainer, but Jeff came up to us, and from then on, we were with him for two years.”
The demands of a national show schedule led Stine to shift his education. Now a ninth grader, he utilizes Ohio Connections Academy, a virtual homeschooling system that allows him to balance his studies with training.
“It is certainly a blessing to be able to do school wherever, whenever,” Stine said. “It also takes less time on average a day to get my lessons done than it otherwise would.”
The 2024 and 2025 seasons marked a period of rapid ascent for Stine. His partnership with the mare Bottle Service, known in the barn as "Halsey," a 2022 chestnut mare by An Absolute Martini and out of Secrete Dreams, proved to be a turning point. Despite initial struggles –Stine recalls not even knowing how to properly "lope her off" during their first ride in Ocala, Florida – the pair quickly found their rhythm.
By June, they claimed victory in the 3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western
Pleasure at the Back to Berrien Futurity. The momentum continued into the summer at the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Youth World Show, where they earned a Reserve title in Level 2 Western Pleasure.
The pinnacle of Stine’s competitive career came at the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) World Championship Show in Tulsa. Stine describes the 2025 NSBA World Show as his biggest accomplishment to date, where he secured wins in the 3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure and the Limited Horse Limited Rider Western Pleasure classes.
Then at the Quarter Horse Congress he earned top fives in the 3-Year-Old Limited and Open Non-Pro Western Pleasure as well as a third place in Youth Western Pleasure 12-14.
“Last year was certainly a year of an abundance of blessings in many ways, going far beyond just the show pen,” he said.
The Stine family’s journey has been guided by a succession of elite trainers. After starting with Geiger, they moved to Taft Dickerson and have recently transitioned to the guid-
Brayden Stine is pictured on the opposite page riding Bottle Service at the Back To Berrien Futurity in Michigan where they won the 3-Year-Old Limited Non-Pro Western Pleasure. On this page Brayden is pictured (clockwise from top) with Bottle Service at the NSBA World Show and at the AQHA Youth World Show and with his family.
ance of Kenny and Ashley Lakins.
While the move to the Lakins marks a new chapter, Stine remains deeply influenced by the time spent with the Dickerson family. Taft and Donnie Dickerson provided more than just riding lessons; they offered a blueprint for character.
“They taught me things that I didn't know about family, life and the value of genuineness,” Stine said. “Taft had a lot of patience with me and helped me in ways that weren't in his job title. The job of a true friend.”
Known for his dry wit, Taft Dickerson often teased Stine about his "70-year-old man" personality, bestowing nicknames like “Napoleon" and "Ding-a-ling.” One of Stine’s favorite memories involves a three-hour drive through West Virginia with Taft – hat backwards, windows down, and music cranked to a 10.
The 2026 season promises to be a busy one for the Stine household. Brayden, his mother Sam, and his sister Katie are all slated to compete.
Stine’s primary show partner for the 14-18 division and Maturity Non-Pro Western Pleasure will be Shez For Certain, a 2017 mare sired by Certain Potential, known affectionately as “Jolene.” He also plans to show Pickup Man, a 5year-old gelding by VS Flatline, in the Green and Junior Western Pleasure events.
The family is also looking toward the future with two 2year-old mares by Makin Me Willy Wild that may be ready for the pen later this year.
Despite his success under the bright lights of the All American Quarter Horse Congress, Stine is quick to point out that his identity is not found in his win record.
A devout Christian, Stine views his platform in the horse world as an opportunity for ministry. He cites Matthew 7:1314 as a guiding principle, emphasizing the "strait gate" and the narrow way.
“My biggest accomplishment outside of the show pen is being able to aid in the advancement of the Gospel of Christ,” Stine said. “It is a fulfillment and joy that no class win, Congress jacket or prize pool can bring.”
As he looks ahead, Stine remains grounded. While other teenagers might dream of European vacations or surfing in Australia, Stine finds his contentment in the barn, the arena, and his faith. For the boy from Wooster, the "narrow way" is exactly where he wants to be.
Youth Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for an youth profile email Corrine Borton, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.
TAX LAWS by Katherine Jarve
One Big Beautiful Bill Act has provisions that benefit equine industry but also eliminates incentives
Tax season is here. This year, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which was signed into law on July 4, 2025, includes several key tax provisions that are specifically beneficial to the equine industry. The law also introduces the elimination of certain incentives. This article is intended to highlight some of the key takeaways. As always, it is recommended that you consult with a tax advisor or accountant for any specific questions.
Depreciation benefits. One of the biggest advantages of the OBBBA is a permanent 100% bonus depreciation on qualifying property purchased after January 19, 2025. Qualifying property can include farm equipment, fencing, barns, and most horses, such as stallions, broodmares, and two-year olds in training. Under the new law, for qualifying property purchased after January 19, 2025, you can deduct the full cost in the year you put the asset into service. Previously, bonus depreciation was capped at 40%. Furthermore, bonus depreciation is not prorated by the purchase date, so assets placed in service at year-end are eligible for the same benefit as those purchased earlier in the year.
The law also increased the expense limit to $2.5 million annually (up from $1 million) on up to $4 million of purchases. This gives equine operations an opportunity to claim immediate tax savings by deducting costs up front and boosting cash flow.
Timing is everything. Qualified property must be acquired and placed into service after January 19, 2025. For example, a show prospect can be placed into service when training starts or when they begin showing. Broodmares can be placed into service when available for breeding or when they are bred. Tax professionals can help you identify eligible purchases, including horses, and keep thorough records.
On the other end of the spectrum, you have horse trainers who undoubtedly operate a business with a full slate of clients and horses in training. Then there’s everyone in between.
In general, if your horse-related activity (i.e., breeding, showing, training) generates a profit for at least two out of seven consecutive years, then the IRS presumes the activity to be a business and not a hobby. However, even if this rule is met, the IRS can still challenge the for-profit nature of the activity based upon the other factors.
Specifically, the IRS has devised a set of nine factors that it considers when determining whether equine related activities are for business or pleasure.
• Manner in which you carry on the activity
• Expertise of the taxpayer or advisors
• Time and effort spent
• Expectation that assets will appreciate
• Success in similar activities
• History of income or losses
• Amount of occasional profits
• Financial status of taxpayer
• Elements of personal pleasure
The IRS will look at the above factors to determine whether your horse-related activities are considered a hobby or a business. Bottom line, if your expenses are incurred in the pursuit of a hobby, then they are likely not tax deductible. On
This year, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which was signed into law on July 4, 2025, includes several key tax provisions that are specifically beneficial to the equine industry.
Hobby losses. The OBBBA has permanently suspended deduction of horse related expenses for hobbyists. Prior to 2018, hobbyists could deduct the costs of their activities as miscellaneous deductions on their itemized personal tax returns. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminated that option for tax years 2018 through 2025, and the OBBBA made the suspension permanent. Now, if you earn revenue from a hobby, you are required to report the revenue, but you cannot deduct the expenses.
Often, there is confusion about whether equine activities are considered a business or a hobby. Some horse owners own one or two horses and attend some shows throughout the year. They are true “weekend warriors” and horses are their hobby.
the other hand, if your expenses are related to business activity, then you may deduct related expenses. However, you should consult with a tax advisor or accountant for specific advice.
Tip Income Deductions. One of the most talked about provisions of the OBBBA is the “no tax” on tips. The law creates a new federal tax deduction of up to $25,000 for “qualified tips” and allows taxpayers to take an “above-the-line” deduction. This applies to tax years starting in 2025 and ending in 2028. To qualify, the tips must be received in an occupation that “traditionally and customarily” received tips as of December 31, 2024. Tips are broadly defined to include payments via cash, check, credit card, debit card, gift card and electronic payments. It does not include non-cash items like concert tickets or meals. There is also an income threshold with
deductions phasing out for individuals earning more than $150,000 and for joint filers earning more than $300,000.
The IRS has issued a proposed rule identifying occupations customarily and regularly receiving tips. This includes “Pet and Livestock Caretakers,” which potentially covers barn staff and groomers. Importantly, taxpayers must be in a role that customarily receives tips.
1099-K Reporting Thresholds. Digital payments, such as PayPal or Venmo, are increasingly common in equine businesses, from online horse sales to collecting training fees. Under federal law, these third-party platforms must issue a 1099-K if over $20,000 is received or more than 200 transactions occur in a year. This applies to payments for goods and services, but not personal transfers. Many states require reporting at much lower thresholds, sometimes as little as $600.
For equine professionals who routinely use digital payments for collecting training fees or other services, this may create unexpected reporting obligations if 1099K thresholds are met. Therefore, it is crucial to distinguish between business and personal transactions. Good practices include maintaining separate personal and business bank accounts, using separate “usernames” on any third-party apps, and maintaining records of income earned.
Clean Energy Credit Phase-Out
. The OBBBA is phasing out key clean energy tax incentives, which will affect taxpayers investing in clean energy such as solar panels and other energy efficient upgrades. The residential clean energy credit ends after December 31, 2025, and the commercial energy efficiency credit ends for projects starting after June 30, 2026.
Equine businesses planning renovations, such as installation of solar panels, HVAC upgrades, or energy-efficient windows, will need to make improvements quickly to benefit from any tax breaks. Some state and local programs may still offer benefits after federal incentives end.
As the filing deadline looms ahead, we all must prepare for that dreaded spring ritual of preparing (and paying!) our taxes. This article just briefly touches upon some of the provisions of the OBBBA that may affect horse owners and businesses. Of course, you should discuss your personal situation with a tax professional.
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@njtriallawyers.com.
JOINT INJECTIONS by Jordan Strickler
Researchers may be able to help horses at higher risk for a potential side-effect of common medications
Joint injections that contain corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone acetonide, are a common anti-inflammatory in a veterinarian’s toolbox to treat pain and swelling from conditions like arthritis.
However, even though the drug goes into a joint, some of it can have an effect outside of the joint. When that occurs, a horse’s blood sugar and insulin can be elevated for days. Now researchers from the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment are working on a solution.
That matters because insulin is tied to laminitis, a painful hoof condition that can cause long-term damage or result in euthanasia.
While horses that already struggle with insulin control are the ones veterinarians typically worry about most, laminitis is a concern for any horse receiving a corticosteroid injection.
“Corticosteroids injections are an important option for managing joint pain and inflammation, but we also have to realize that they may have effects beyond the joint,” said Allen Page, DVM, assistant professor of equine health and inflammation. “Treatment of only a single joint can affect blood sugar and insulin concentrations, and that’s where laminitis risk becomes part of the conversation.”
insulin, in addition to an oral sugar test as a controlled way to see how each horse’s insulin changed.
Study Results
The major finding was when the horses were on ertugliflozin, their blood sugar and insulin did not rise as much after the injections.
Resting blood sugar was lower for two days following the joint injections while resting insulin was significantly lower for three days.
Additionally, ertugliflozin treatment moderated increases in insulin typically seen with the oral sugar test two days after the joint injection.
While horses that already struggle with insulin control are the ones veterinarians typically worry about most, laminitis is a concern for any horse receiving a corticosteroid injection.
Importantly, the researchers also reported no obvious side effects based on exams of the horses and the lab work they monitored.
An Equine Veterinary Journal study by researchers at the Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center looked at whether a drug called ertugliflozin could decrease the insulin spike after corticosteroid joint injections. Ertugliflozin is in a drug group called SGLT2 inhibitors, which are commonly used in humans with Type II diabetes. These drugs help the body get rid of extra sugar through urine, lowering blood sugar and, in turn, decreasing insulin production.
Led by Page, a team conducted their study using eight, mixed-breed geldings (aged 6-11) from the Department of Veterinary Science herd.
The work, which took place between June and July 2025, ensured that each horse went through the same two rounds of treatment: One where horses received only corticosteroid injections, and another where the horses also received ertugliflozin by mouth once a day for a week before the joint injections and a week after.
For the injections, every horse got a dose that matches real clinical use: 9 mg of triamcinolone acetonide injected into each front fetlock joint (18 mg total per horse).
Afterward, the researchers tracked resting blood sugar and
“Our results suggest ertugliflozin can blunt the temporary glucose and insulin changes we see after a joint injection with triamcinolone,” Page said. “This study was in healthy horses, but it gives us a starting point to explore whether this approach could help horses that are at higher risk for laminitis.”
The next step is the one that really matters for owners: testing this approach in insulin-dysregulated horses to see whether ertugliflozin can reduce post-steroid insulin increases in animals needing that protection most.
“Going into this study, we were not sure what we were going to find,” Page said. ”It’s clear that we need to expand this research into horses with elevated insulin and see if ertugliflozin may decrease the risk for laminitis in this important portion of the equine population.”
Jordan Strickler is an Agricultural Communications Specialist at the University of Kentucky and a freelance writer. He earned a bachelor of science degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Kentucky and a certificate of Equine Administration from the University of Louisville.
ASSOCIATIONS
DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP CARDS
(IN) NSBA NEWS
The National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) has announced that the association is transitioning from printing and mailing physical membership cards and will instead issue digital membership cards via email.
For many members, keeping track of a physical card while traveling between shows, barns and events can be challenging. By moving to digital delivery, members will receive their membership credentials faster and will be able to easily access them from their phone or inbox whenever needed –whether at the show office, at home or on the road.
“NSBA is always looking for ways to better serve our members and meet them where they are,” shared NSBA Executive Director Stephanie Lynn. “This transition allows us to provide membership information more quickly and reliably, while also preparing for a more robust online experience in the near future.”
All new and renewed memberships will receive a digital membership card via email, similar to the current process for horse registration certificates. Members are encouraged to save a copy to their phone or device for easy reference.
This update reflects NSBA’s continued commitment to serving members with more timely, convenient access to their membership information while preparing for the launch of a new online member portal, tentatively scheduled for April 2026.
` The upcoming online portal, anticipated to launch in April 2026, will provide members with expanded access to their records and documents in one convenient location. Additional details about the portal will be shared as they become available. Members can continue to verify their membership online prior to the launch of the portal. Visit the NSBA website and select the Showing tab, then select Member Lookup or using the direct link: nsba.com/memberlookup. Visit www.nsba.com for additional information.
ENGLISH VERSATILITY
AQHA LAUNCHING TWO NEW INITIATIVES IN 2026
The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is launching the VS Code Red English Versatility Series and the English Versatility Challenge, presented by VS Code Red. These two new initiatives are designed to celebrate the adaptability, athleticism and all-around talent of the American Quarter Horse in English and hunter disciplines.
Anchored by the English versatility pilot class launched by AQHA in 2025, the program expands in 2026 to include the English Versatility Series and the English Versatility Challenge, creating multiple pathways for exhibitors to participate at the local, national and championship levels.
English versatility showcases the Quarter Horse’s ability to excel across multiple English-style classes, emphasizing rideability and functional movement. The English versatility program will offer three distinct opportunities to compete, allowing riders of varying experience levels and geographic locations to participate.
Three Ways to Compete
The English Versatility Series is a season-long competition offered at select AQHA-approved shows across the country. Competitors participate in English versatility classes at a designated set of 10 participating events, starting in February at the Arizona Sun Circuit and wrapping up in September at the Texas
Classic, with standings determined by earnings accumulated throughout the series, with each event offering a payout of $1,500 or more. The series provides a format for exhibitors to compete at multiple shows while recognizing top performers at the conclusion of the season.
The English Versatility Challenge is a new premier, standalone event at the 2026 Markel AQHA & Adequan® Select World Championship Shows. This three-class competition takes inspiration from the structure of the popular AQHA Pleasure Versatility Challenge while focusing on hunter-style American Quarter Horses. Horses that are 4 years and older who have not competed previously over fences are eligible to compete. The horse may be allowed to compete in English versatility pilot classes throughout the year, including if there is a jump in the pattern.
The English Versatility Challenge consists of horses being shown sequentially in three classes: English Versatility; Working Hunter Under Saddle; Hunter Conformation in Hand
The Challenge highlights the complete English horse and rider combination in a single, high-profile event on AQHA’s largest stage.
AQHA introduced English versatility as a pilot class at AQHA-approved shows across the country in 2025.
BUZZ
ON THE WEB
(www.instrideedition.com)
(IN) LIFE
Courtney and Cody Parmenter, of Edmond, Oklahoma, welcomed their second child on Feb. 6.
The new arrival, named Cason James, weighed joins a brother, Camden Gray. Cody owns and operates Cody Parmenter Photography
AQHA and NSBA professional trainers
HOW WELL DID YOUR REPRESENTATIVES SUPPORT THE EQUINE INDUSTRY?
AMERICAN HORSE COUNCIL RELEASES ITS 2025 YEAR END CONGRESSIONAL SCORECARD
The American Horse Council (AHC)has released its 2025 Year-End Congressional Scorecard, a data-driven assessment of how Members of Congress supported the U.S. equine industry throughout the first session of the 119th Congress. This annual metric evaluates lawmakers on a combination of legislative action, caucus participation, and responsiveness to industry priorities.
The Scorecard tracks Member engagement across a series of bipartisan, industry-relevant bills that advanced equine health, workforce development, tax policy, rural veterinary capacity, and public lands access. In addition to legislative sponsorship and co-sponsorship, the Scorecard incorporates additional factors like membership in the Congressional Horse Caucus and responsiveness to AHC and industry stakeholders.
Raina and Erik Parsons welcomed their third child, a girl, on Feb. 25. The new arrival, named Reagan
May, joins a brother, Logan and a sister, Tessa. Raina and Erik own and operate Parsons Show Horses in Windsor, Maryland.
(IN) WORK
Steve Meadows of Staunton, Virginia, has been named the 2026
Markel/APHA Professional Horseman of the Year. A fourth-generation horseman, Meadows has been involved the horse industry since childhood. He and his wife, Becky, own Meadows Quarter Horses; daughter Noel helps Steve train and show horses. After winning multiple World Championships in Western Pleasure, Meadows shifted his focus to ranch events in 2014. He has more than 30 World Championships in Ranch events with APHA, American Quarter Horse Association, National Snaffle Bit Association and International Ranch Horse Association. An APHA Professional Horseman since 2020, Steve is an APHA judge and is also carded with AQHA and NSBA.
To recognize outstanding leadership, AHC is pleased to announce the Top 10 Representatives and Top 10 Senators who demonstrated the highest combined scores across all evaluation categories.
Top 16 Representatives: Rep. Andy Barr (KY); Rep. Ronny Jackson (TX); Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN); Rep. Derrick Van Orden (WI); Rep. G.T. Thompson (PA); Rep. Brad Finstad (MN); Rep. Jim Costa (CA); Rep. Paul Tonko (NY); Rep. Don Bacon (NE); Rep. Jack Bergman (MI).
Top 10 Senators: Sen. Amy Klobuchar (MN); Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (MS); Sen. John Boozman (AR); Sen. Mike Crapo (ID); Sen. Ted Budd (NC); Sen. Thom Tillis (NC); Sen. Jerry Moran (KS); Sen. Katie Boyd Britt (AL); Sen. Steve Daines (MT); Sen. Jim Risch (ID).
These lawmakers distinguished themselves through consistent legislative engagement, active participation in the Congressional Horse Caucus, and strong responsiveness to equine industry concerns throughout the year.
Key Legislative Measures Included in the 2025 Scorecard The following bills were used as weighted indicators of congressional support:
Equine Health, Biosecurity & Disease Prevention
• H.R. 3915 — Foreign Animal Disease Prevention, Surveillance, and Rapid Response Act of 2025
• H.R. 3392 / S. 1751 — STOP Screwworms Act
(Strengthening Tactics to Obstruct the Population of Screwworms Act)
• H.R. 1151 / S. 756 — Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act
• S. 811 — RTP Full Funding Act of 2025 (Recreational Trails Program)
• S. 1547 — America the Beautiful Act
Additional Evaluation Factors: Beyond legislative sponsorships, the Scorecard also assesses:
• Membership in the Congressional Horse Caucus — recognizing legislators who formally commit to supporting equine-related issues.
• Responsiveness to the equine industry — based on Member participation in briefings, meetings, constituent casework, and timely engagement with AHC policy priorities.
The full 2025 Congressional Scorecard is available at: https://horsecouncil.org/resources/congressional-scorecard/
