2020 March/April RCHN

MARCH/APRIL 2020 VOLUME 25, NO. 2

Trail Townsend pilots TRR Lucky Playgun to the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman title.

MARCH / APRIL 2020

VO l UME 25, NUMBE r 2

FEaTUrES

122 Affiliate of the Year

The New York Reined Cow Horse Association celebrates 10 years with the honor of Affiliate of the Year selection.

128 Protecting the Joints

Joint therapy is an important part of maintaining your equine athletes’ health. Dr. Joe Carter shares info you need to know about this helpful medical strategy.

Quotable

From the Judge’s Chair

Around the World

iN EVErY iSSUE 4 NRCHA President’s Letter

On the cover:

The 2020 World’s Greatest Horseman, John Swales, riding Metallic Cat Rose (photo by Primo Morales;page 40). Fold Out: Trail Townsend and TRR Lucky Playgun are the 2020 World’s Greatest Youth Horseman winners (pg.48)

lyn anderson piloted Smokin Smart cat (Wr This cats Smart x She Smokes Smart x Senors lil Brudder) to the World champion title in the Open Two rein for owners David and Barbara archer.

EVENT cOVEraGE

40 World’s Greatest Horseman

John Swales captured his second World’s Greatest Horseman title, this time aboard Metallic Cat Rose.

48 Lucky Under the Lights

Trail Townsend and TRR Lucky Playgun came to the 2020 World’s Greatest Youth Horseman with a plan, and together took home the title.

58 NRCHA National Champions

74 NRCHA World Champions

100 Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby

Corey Cushing riding Hott Rod and Myles Brown riding Twice In A Blu Moon earn titles.

114 Elevated Education

Tarleton State University gets its first team win in the Collegiate Invitational.

118 Redemption Ride

Gage Gardiner rode to personal redemption in his High School Rodeo Challenge win.

Volume 25, Number 2

TOGETHERNESS

In recent letters, I put a lot of emphasis on change. For example, I’ve talked about how to embrace change with a positive attitude and face it with confidence, not only inside the show pen, but in life, as well. There is also something to be said for stability and executing long-term goals. I believe the NRCHA Board of Directors and staff are examples of the best of both worlds.

The board of directors is a wellrounded group of owners, riders, sponsors, business-minded thinkers and creative minds that represent all regions of the country. The staff members, also, have diverse backgrounds and skillsets. At the end of the day, the balance of qualities each person brings to the table plays a large part in our success.

No matter how long a member has served on the board or how recently he or she was elected to this important position, everyone works hard to stay true to the association’s traditions, values and goals. I applaud the board members and staff who stay steady and true to the association’s foundation. I also applaud and admire the “outside-the-box” thinkers. Together, we are leading the Western performance industry. The NRCHA has the set the bar for other associations to meet.

I want to remind you, again, that if you have a question, concern or idea, I encourage you to share it with a director, committee chairperson and/or staff member. Your voice matters! We want to keep growing and stay a cut above the rest.

To everyone who brings new and fresh ideas to the table, I thank you. To those who help us stay the course and execute our vision, I thank you. As they say, “teamwork makes the dream work.” I, for one, am excited to be on this winning team.

To our sponsors, owners, riders, fans, breeders and every cow horse enthusiast in between, you are simply the best in the business. My hat’s off to you.

Sincerely,

Corey Cushing

Official Publication of the National Reined Cow Horse Association

Published by Quarter Horse News

Nrcha

256 North Hwy 377 | Pilot Point, TX 76258

Phone: 940-488-1500 | Fax: 940-488-1499

info@nrcha.com | www.NRCHA.com

Nrcha OFFicErS & DirEcTOrS:

President: Corey Cushing

Vice President: Paul Bailey

Secretary: Frank Prisco

Treasurer: Trey Neal

NRCHA Foundation: MJ Isakson

Nrcha STaFF

Executive Administrator: Kelley Hartranft

Membership: Barbara Nahlik

Communication/Youth/Sponsors: Allison Walker

Shows: Emily Konkel

Accounting: Joy Galvan

rEiNED cO W hOrSE NEWS

Publisher: Patty Tiberg

Editor: Kate Bradley Byars

Contributing Writers: Megan Arszman, Abigail Boatwright, Kate Bradley Byars, Jill Dunkel, Katie Navarra, Kristin Pitzer and Bonnie Wheatley

Production Manager: Sherry Brown

Art Director: Susan Sampson

Official NRCHA Photographer: Primo Morales

Official NRCHA Videographer:

Equine Promotion

Advertising Sales

Breeders: Karen Barnhart, 620-951-4026

Commercial: Jenn Sanders, 940-627-3399

Sales Customer Service Manager: Diana Buettner, 817-569-7114

Sales Customer Service

Lindsey Missel, 817-569-7106

Advertising, Fax 817-737-9633

Reined Cow Horse News (ISSN 23803975) is published six times a year by Cowboy Publishing Group. Known office of publication: 2112 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107. All contents are copyright of the National Reined Cow Horse Association. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without prior written permission from the NRCHA. Opinions expressed in articles and advertising in Reined Cow Horse News do not necessarily reflect the positions or opinions of the NRCHA or its officers and members. Accuracy of material is the sole responsibility of the authors. Unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender’s risk and the NRCHA accepts no responsibility for them. Please address all submissions to: Reined Cow Horse News, 256 North Hwy 377, Pilot Point, Texas, 76258. Subscription rate is $25 a year. Periodical postage paid at Pilot Point, Texas, 76258 and additional mailing offices. USPS number, 024-906. Postmaster: Send address changes to Reined Cow Horse News, 256 North Hwy 377, Pilot Point, Texas, 76258.

corey cushing, Nrcha president

Our boots speak for themselves. – and those who wear them.–

THE OFFICIAL BOOT of the NRCHA.

INAUGURAL NRCHA EAST COAST PREMIER EVENT UNVEILED

By Bonnie Wheatley

The National Reined Cow Horse Association is proud to debut its first premier event east of the Mississippi. The NRCHA Board of Directors added the Dom Conicelli Memorial Eastern Derby presented by MARS Equestrian™ to its 2020 premier event schedule. Formerly the East Coast Reined Cow Horse Classic, the event is scheduled for July 15-19, 2020, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum.

The Dom Conicelli Memorial Eastern Derby keeps the spirit of its namesake alive while bringing premier reined cow horse competition further east. The late Dom Conicelli was inducted into NRCHA’s Hall of Merit in 2018 for his commitment to NRCHA on both the national and local level.

“The growing popularity of reined cow horse is undeniable, and as a board we are always looking for ways to grow and attract new fans of this amazing sport,” said NRCHA President Corey Cushing. “When the opportunity for an NRCHA produced premier event in the eastern portion of the United States presented itself, we felt that the timing was right.”

NRCHA Vice President Paul Bailey, who has been instrumental in producing the Murfreesboro show for many years, echoed Cushing’s sentiments.

“I believe reined cow horse enthusiasts in the eastern United States will be pleased and proud to see an NRCHA premier event make its home in their neck of the woods, and that having that caliber of competition will only generate greater exposure for NRCHA’s brand of competition that so many of us know and love,” said Bailey.

In the coming weeks, more information will be available at NRCHA. com.

WE STAND CORRECTED

in the November/December reined cow horse News issue, we inadvertently left off information from the following regional champions.

NOrThEaSTErN

Non Pro Hackamore

aNiTa M. FlicK / DUaliNG MOONShiNE

Aboard her 2014 mare Dualing Moonshine (Cats moonshine x Hughes Dualing Lena x Dual Rey), owner-rider Anita Flick, 66, of Jonestown, Pennsylvania, earned the Non Pro Hackamore Regional Award. The 2019 award is the first won for Flick, who works with Bayer in the nutritional manufacturing department where One-A-Day vitamins are made. She purchased the mare as a 2-year-old, but until 2019 was unable to consistently show. The most memorable show for Flick was the Atlantic Reined Cow Horse Association’s Fall Extravaganza.

“Everything came together for me at this show,” she recalled. “My mare and I won the Non Pro Derby, Non Pro Hackamore class and had the highest score down the fence. This Non Pro Hackamore win secured this Regional Championship. My biggest challenge I faced this show year was staying focused and on task while dealing with illnesses and deaths in my immediate family.”

Flick thanks trainer Mark Sigler for believing in her and encouraging her to continually improve. Additionally, she appreciates her mother, who told her to give the mare a chance back when she was a small 2-year-old.

“I was convinced she was too small to be competitive in this sport and wanted to sell her,”Flick recalled. “My mother convinced me to give her a chance. My mom said she might mature into a really nice horse. Needless to say ‘Thank you, Mom,’ you were right again!”

Congratulations, Anita Flick, and please accept our apology for the omission.

SOUThEaSTErN

Youth Limited

cEcilia SaNchEZ / DUN iT WiTh GlOrY Cecilia Sanchez, from Sarasota, Florida, and 2005 mare Dun It With Glory (Dun it Big x DC Oaks Glory x Lil Hotshot Badger) earned the Southeastern Youth Limited Regional Champion award in 2019.

Cecilia worked hard in 2019 to master her nerves on their way to the title, she said. In addition to NRCHA events, she also competes in the Florida High School Rodeo Association in reined cow horse. She loves her mare’s willing heart and goofy personality.

“I would like to thank my parents for their continued support,” Cecilia said.

She would also like to thank Jay and Rhonda Holmes for their guidance and training.

Congratulations, Cecilia Sanchez, and please accept our apology for the omission.

SOUTh

cENTral

$1K Non Pro Limited

Traci a . WiTTE / rOaNY rEY JaY

Non Pro Traci A. Witte rode her 2008 stallion Roany Rey Jay (Boonlight Dancer x Rey Janie Starlight x Grays Starlight) to the $1K Non Pro Limited Regional Award. A pediatric and stem cell transplant pharmaceutical representative from Fort Worth, Texas, Witte rides with trainer Tom Neel, who she claimed “worked magic” on her and her horse, and her daughter, Caitlin A. Witte.

In fact, Witte earned the award riding a horse that was supposed to be her daughter’s in 2019.

“My daughter was hurt this summer and wasn’t able to show,” she recalled. “I am grateful for her support and encouragement with me to pursue my showing this past summer while she stayed at home. This started out as her journey. Now after major reconstruction knee surgery and six months off from riding she is able to start riding again. I have a happy girl and she is excited to make her senior year her best with herself and ‘DJ’.”

DJ is called so because he can spin fast like a record that a disc jockey plays. That athleticism is what Witte appreciates about the horse.

“He has a lot of cow and is a big stopper,” she said. “Our most memorable moment was in Ardmore at the [Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association] Summer Spectacular when not only did we score our personal best, we had the highest score of the show!”

In addition to reined cow horse events, the horse competes with the Wittes in AQHA and APHA ranch riding, cutting and versatility events.

Congratulations, Traci Witte, and please accept our apology for the omission.

CHIC PLEASE REMEMBERED

The Nrcha Million Dollar Sire passes at age 25.

Chic Please was laid to rest on Monday, January 20, 2020. A National Reined Cow Horse Association Million Dollar Sire, Chic Please (Smart Chic Olena x San O Lenita x Tenino San) and Todd Bergen started off the stallion’s career with a bang, earning the NRCHA Open Snaffle Bit Futurity® Reserve Champion title in 1998.

Bred by M S&B Enterprises, the stallion was then owned by Arcese Quarter Horses. Bergen left Reno, Nevada, with the reserve title and headed for the National Reining Horse Association Futurity in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. There, Chic Please

showed his versatility by winning the NRHA Futurity Open Championship. The pair went on make the finals at the NRHA Derby and NRCHA Derby in 1999 before the horse retired at age 5 to the breeding barn.

The stallion sired money-earners in reined cow horse, reining, cutting, ranch versatility, roping and barrel racing, with earners of more than a million dollars in reined cow horse. Notable offspring include number one performer ARC Sparkin Chics, the 2008 stallion shown by Doug Williamson. At the time of his death, Chic Please was owned by Sergio Zermeno of Entorno Quarter Horses.

QUOTABLE

The Ben Self-produced podcast, Cow Horse Full Contact, is bringing the reined cow horse industry to podcast listeners around the country. In Episode 4, host Russell Dilday, a three-time World’s Greatest Horseman champion, interviewed his co-host, NRCHA Million Dollar Rider Chris Dawson. Dilday asked Dawson how has his outlook changed over his years of training.

“I had been working real hard and trying real hard, and putting my emphasis on the external rewards of the business. I realized I was giving my power to five guys sitting in the [judge’s] chair and I was allowing them to dictate my happiness and self-worth. I’ll be darned if I’ll give my control away. It was a big stepping stone for me. I shifted to looking internally—did I show my horse, train my horse to the best of my ability? When I did that, it was easy to hold my head up, walk out of there, give him a pat and go to the next one. Win, lose or draw, it didn’t affect who I was or how much my wife loved me… we all want to win and are busting our humps to do it every single time. But, if you’re allowing winning or losing to dictate your happiness or self esteem, you’re in for a bad ride. There are a lot more losing days than winning days.” —Chris Dawson

2019 SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY OWNERS FUND DONORS

Kathy and Larry Barker

Beechfork Ranch/Kelly Krum

Larry and Ellen Bell

Bet Hesa Cat Syndicate

Brazos Valley Stallion Station

Michelle Cannon

Carroll’s Cutting

CD Lights

CR Sis, LLC/Luna Construction/ Silvera Produce Sales, Inc.

Dom Conicelli Estate

Cutting Horse Central/Mark Michels

Gardiner Quarter Horses

Hooray Ranch/ Eric and Wendy Dunn

Kathryn Phillips

Kit Kat Sugar/Barbara Allsup

Kevin and Sydney Knight

Roxanne Koepsell Performance Horses

Jeffrey and Sheri Matthews

Alvin and Becky Fults

Kit and Charlie Moncrief/ Moncrief Ranches

Russ Mothershead Oswood Stallion Station

Rockin W

Carol Rose

Russell Ranches/ James, Ellen and Erin Russell

San Juan Ranch/ Santa Cruz Animal Health

Smooth Talking Style/ Holmes & Hill

Stuart Ranch

Beverly Servi

Wharton Family Quarter Horses

Wrigley Ranches LLC

WR This Cats Smart

FROM THE JUDGE’S CHAIR

The Beginning Fence Work class provides a new challenge for Non pro limited riders to advance their cow working skills.

The Beginning Fence Work class was developed because the boxing, or Non Pro Limited class, doesn’t fully prepare riders to go down the fence; there is a huge learning curve. While the National Reined Cow Horse Association started this class several years ago, it is now a provisional class for two years. And, riders are showing interest in it. We think if someone goes straight from boxing to fence work, then they don’t fully understand how to rate a cow down the fence while maintaining proper position. This class was designed as a way for people to learn to rate a cow and control a cow on the fence so that when they did compete in a full fence work class, the rider will be more prepared and competitive.

In Beginning Fence Work, a judge wants to see a rider drive the cow around the corner, and be alongside the cow in a position to make a fence turn. Judges focus on position and control in this class.

The Beginning Fence Work score sheet used is the same as all other cow work cards, with a minus, a check or a plus per maneuver. But, there are a few areas that are new to riders who have only boxed.

1. cOrNEr

Riders want to box the cow as aggressively as possible, just like the Non Pro Limited class. Once the rider demonstrates control of the cow in the boxing, drive the cow toward the corner

and around the corner down the fence. There should be some speed as you drive the cow into the corner. There needs to be closeness between the cow and the horse, and speed to keep it rolling down the fence.

One problem often seen is that riders will check up as they approach the corner and this creates space between the horse and cow, putting them behind. The transition from the boxing to driving that cow through the corner and down the fence should be one smooth, continual motion. The corner is an area where the rider can demonstrate rate, position and control in this area. There is also a higher degree of difficulty when the cow and horse roll with speed through the corner.

2. pOSiTiON ON ThE FENcE

A judge is looking at degree of difficulty, position and control, and rate down the fence. If a horse rates the cow on a loose rein, that has more eye appeal than if a rider is checking up a horse to maintain position.

A good rule of thumb for maintaining proper position is if the rider is close enough that they can rope the cow. If the rider is further than they can reach out and rope the cow, that is a loss of working advantage. A judge does not want to see the rider trailing the cow, but driving it with speed down the fence. You also do not want the cow to cross the path of the horse, which can be a penalty or worse, cause injury.

The boxing portion of the Beginning Fence Work class is important for setting up a successful fence drive that judges can view as credit earning.

There is a deduction if the cow drifts off the fence due to the rider being out of position. In the driving box of the judge’s card, a check minus is applied if the rider fails to keep the cow driving straight down the fence. Even if the cow drifts and the rider rides up to put the cow back on the fence, there was a lack of position that allowed the cow to move off the fence.

3. aBiliTY TO STOp

The key is to maintain control of the cow. Do not let it roll off the fence or back down the other side of the arena. The judge wants to see your ability to control your horse as well as the cow. Riders should not drive the cow from corner to corner down the fence. Instead, a rider needs to be in position and drive the cow past the middle marker and then stop their horse square and with ease.

4. BOX ThE OThEr END

There is more of a challenge boxing on the opposite end because the cow is looking to come back to home base. To score points in a judge’s eye, riders really have to hold that cow there for

TALENT MADE BY TELETRONA

Any parent is proud that their children excel, but if Teletrona could have spoken, the 2002 mare would more than likely burst with pride for her two champion reined cow horse foals. During the 2020 Celebration of Champions, two foals out of Teletrona, a cutting-trained earner of more than $54,000, won major events: Twice In A Blu Moon (by Once In A Blu Boon) and Metallic Cat Rose (by Metallic Cat).

TELETRONA

more than one or two turns. Now, with a cow that still has air and is moving, the rider should make a few turns. If the cow is out of air, gauge that and be sure you aren’t pushing a trotting cow back down the fence for the end.

The NRCHA Board of Directors wanted to give Non Pro Limited riders a second class to show in and prepare to go down the fence someday. We feel this class does just that. Good luck to everyone competing in this new class. If the Beginning Fence Work is well supported by exhibitors, it will be an official class in 2022.

Ride hard, Todd Crawford

Myles Brown piloted Twice In A Blu Moon to the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Non Pro win while John Swales won his second World’s Greatest Horseman title aboard Metallic Cat Rose. The mare’s other reined cow horse winning offspring include Kickin Rey (by Dual Rey) an earner of more than $17,000, and also Metallic Chrome Cat (by Metallic Cat) an earner of more than $97,000.

On March 3, 2020, Diamond LK cutting horses made painful decision to euthanize Teletrona due to an injury.

JEWEL’S LEO BARS

GAY JAY

LEO BARS

MISS ROYAL

DOC O’LENA PRELMINARY PLANS

ANDY’S LITTLE WHISP

AN UPDATE FROM THE NRCHA FOUNDATION

Meet the Nrcha Foundation members and read their 2020 goals in this new column.

The National Reined Cow Horse Association Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit that supports four programs: crisis fund, youth scholarships, heritage preservation and the Hall of Fame banquet. Our current board members are MJ Isakson, Patrick Seals, Linda McMahon, Deirdre Naff, Brady Weaver, Trey Neal, Todd Crawford and Paul Bailey.

Our first task in 2019 was planning the Hall of Fame banquet. Linda McMahon with Deirdre Naff managing the ticketing led this effort. Priority one was creating a special event for the inductees and to do so tried new things. The most popular change was the ‘Lindafied’ cocktail hour, which included elegant décor, complementary drinks (courtesy of McSpyder Ranch), hors d’oeuvres and a Mariachi band.

Thanks to the herculean efforts made by Linda and her team of volunteers and vendors, all of the donations made by our sponsors, Brad Barkemeyer’s beautiful invocation, Dan Roeser’s heartfelt introduction of the inductees, Nathan Bouley’s top-notch videos, Brady Weaver and Sophia Buttars’ excellent on-site ticket-collection management skills, and so many gracious attendees, the evening was a success. Ticket sales and money raised increased from the year before, and best of all, the inductees were able to share a welldeserved evening of celebration with their friends and family. We hope to make the next banquet even better!

In 2019, we also developed formal guidelines for the crisis fund. Patrick Seals, who researched the best practices of similar organizations, led this effort. The goal of the foundation is to provide

a sustainable crisis fund program that is available in times of need.

In 2020, our highest priorities are to raise awareness about what the NRCHA Foundation does, raise money to support the programs, and continue to develop the framework of each program for the NRCHA community. We’re looking at ways to expand the scholarship program. We’d also like to develop workflows for the heritage preservation program, which would include digitizing historic photos, print media, and film.

We would like to give a special thanks to the youth association who made a substantial donation to the NRCHA Foundation. Thank you NRCHyA! Contact the Foundation at hello@nrchaf.com or visit www.nrcha foundation.com.

With pat russell, 2019 Vaquero award winner (2nd from left), are Foundation members (left to right) Doug Williamson, Dan roeser, anne reynolds, Jon roeser, ron Emmons and Don Murphy

NRCHyA YOUTH ACTIVITIES SHINE

By Ben Self

National Reined Cow Horse Youth Association members were active during the 2020 NRCHA Celebration of Champions in Fort Worth, Texas. All youth were invited to the dedicated youth lounge, which remained active as members made posters, played games and shared snacks with an emphasis on relaxation amongst our horse show friends from all over the country. Throughout the show, youth officers sold raffle tickets for Shannon Lawlor’s original painting, The Cavaliers, with sale proceeds benefitting the NRCHA. The NRCHyA would like to thank Shannon Lawlor for donating her beautiful work of art to benefit our association.

On Thursday, the NRCHyA had a youth fan zone during the DT Horses/ Hashtags’ World’s Greatest Horseman and MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman steer stopping and fence work prelims. Over 30 youth sat in the fan zone and were provided free pizza. The NRCHyA also provided supplies for youth to make fan posters for their favorite trainers.

On Friday, the NRCHyA conducted its annual national meeting, which had an attendance of over 70 youth members. Professional team roper Dakota Kirchenschlager and National Cutting Horse Association Hall of Fame Rider Spud Sheehan gave motivational speeches to the youth. Spud Sheehan has accumulated more than 1.5 mil-

lion dollars in the cutting pen. Dakota Kirchenschlager is a three-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier and champion roper. Both professionals are making the transition to the NRCHA. Sheehan and Kirchenschlager discussed the challenges they have faced and how to overcome obstacles life presents. Both speakers led the youth with high levels of motivation. After those motivational speeches, a recap of NRCHyA in 2019 was presented to youth members followed by the election of youth officers for the 2020 term.

This year for our community service project during the show, we held a canned food drive with all donated items delivered to the Fort Worth HOPE Center. The center provides food and essential services to local citizens in need. By the time the meeting was

concluded, the NRCHyA collected over 500 pounds of canned goods.

From all of us at NRCHyA, we would like to thank our advisors, Allison Walker, Sarah Clymer and Todd Crawford for all they do for NRCHyA. We would also like to give a big thanks to MARS Equestrian for being the presenting sponsor of the 2020 World’s Greatest Youth Horseman and sponsoring the NRCHA.

Spud Sheehan, left, and Dakota Kirchenschlager speak to a crowded Nrchya meeting room about their path to reined cow horse.

Ben Self, far left, speaks to Dakota Kirchenschlager and Spud Sheehan, far right, before they speak to the full Nrchya membership.

Photo by Stacy Judd Photography

MEET JAMIE OLSON

One man’s desire to learn about cow horses propelled him past a limited horse background to professional trainer status.

By Jill J. Dunkel

Jamie Olson’s path to the reined cow horse arena wasn’t a typical one. He didn’t grow up showing horses, or even riding for that matter. At around age 5, when his dad was leading him horseback, the horse spooked and the younger Olson fell off. He hit is head on a rock and never wanted to ride another horse.

That memory was miles away when Olson rode into the herd last month at the 2020 World’s Greatest Horseman, presented by DT Horses and

Hashtags, event in Fort Worth. Twists and turns have brought the 44-year-old trainer’s life—and his career—to this point. Each stop along the way has contributed to making him the husband, father and horse trainer he is today.

SMall STarT

Olson was raised near Dallas. Not “Big D,” but Dallas, South Dakota, a small farming and ranching community with a population of 120. The small family farm included a few horses, but they

were “nothing special,” he recalls. In fact, Olson considered them more an extra chore at feeding time. Not until a friend convinced him to go to college did Olson find a desire to learn more about horses.

From there, Frank Kenzy, a local cutting horse trainer, offered Olson a job riding colts and working on his ranch. Olson’s first real exposure to starting horses lit a small fire under the young rider. Olson then went to a reined cow horse seminar taught by Les Vogt and held during the Black Hills Stock Show, but left somewhat disappointed.

“It seemed like he talked about bits and bridles a lot. I thought I was there to hear about cow horses,” he laughed, looking back on the experience. With no cow horse trainers in the regional area, Olson let it go. Once out of school, he did whatever it took to make a living and stay involved in agriculture, working at local feedlots and shoeing horses.

Life changes, including his new bride, Mica, took Olson in a different direction; he found factory work as a welder.

“I didn’t ride a horse for two or three years,” he recalled. “I was wrapped up in welding and learning the factory life. I never imagined a guy could get paid by the hour and get a paycheck every Friday,” he said.

OppOrTUNiTY KNOcKS

A factory slowdown led to a side job at a feedlot, and Olson slowly grew back into the equine world. He started team roping and shoeing horses again, and

The Olson family lives in Nebraska, keeping the training operation small and personal.

eventually began riding horses 30 days at a time.

“That turned into a couple of 60-day horses, and then some 90-day horses,” he said. “Pretty soon, I was starting a lot of colts. Occasionally, I’d get an older horse I could go do something on.”

Another opportunity to learn about reined cow horses came in 2002, where Olson took his handiest rope horse.

“It was amazing. I told Mica, ‘I’ve got to quit roping because I want to learn how to do cow horse,’” Olson remembered.

Learn was an understatement. Olson didn’t know what a spin was or a sliding stop.

“The only time I ever slid a horse was on the ice,” he laughed.

But his passion for learning more about cow horses was deep. Much he

learned was self-taught by trial and error. He even spent a winter studying dressage books to learn about collection and balance. In 2005 Olson put down his money to attend a clinic with renowned cow horse trainer and National Reined Cow Horse Association Hall of Fame member Don Murphy in Colorado.

“He was the one who really corrected a lot of my wrongs, and I had a lot of wrongs,” Olson said. “But it made me appreciate the horses. I know I must have frustrated Don. I was so hungry for knowledge, and I had so much going on in my mind. I remember Don telling me to quit moving. He was very instrumental in my learning, and still is.”

From that humble beginning Olson and his wife have built a horse training business near Bloomfield, Nebraska. It

is focused on hard work and personal service. He credits horsemen Frank Kenzy, Don Murphy, Todd Crawford and Jim Brinkman for the wisdom and advice that helps him successfully operate his own training barn.

“So many people have helped me. I’d see someone doing something and ask them about it. About the time I would figure something out, then something else would fall apart, but I kept working at it. I got in too deep and couldn’t get out,” he chuckled. “I never felt like I could quit because there was so much more I wanted to learn.”

At the beginning of 2020, Olson had more than $90,000 in lifetime earnings, largely from aged events. He has resisted the idea to grow his business beyond what he can personally ride every day and keeps about 15 horses in his barn.

During the pitzer ranch invitational, a ranch horse versatility competition, Olson enjoyed the outdoor trail obstacles, like this jump.

The majority of his business is riding colts, but he keeps a few show horses or older horses in the barn as well. He also shows in ranch versatility competitions and finished in the top 10 at the 2019 American Quarter Horse Association Versatility Ranch Horse World Show.

a GraTEFUl pErSpEcTiVE

He’s never forgotten those early days working in the feed yard, and continues to run cattle with Mica’s family. He also continues farrier work, mainly shoeing horses in his barn, as well as for others willing to bring their horses to his place.

“A lot of times, I look back and wonder, ‘How did we get from where we were to where we are?’ There’s quite a difference in horse power, and in our life in general,” he said. “We’ve built up a business that revolves around my ability to work hard every day. Mica handles the paperwork and other

things, and our entire family helps clean stalls. It’s a very family-run business.”

Olson’s oldest son, Elliot, followed his dad’s passion for farming and ranching. He’s building his own cow herd as he attends college and works for a local farmer. Olson’s other two children, Tatum, who is 16, and Callie, 12, share their father’s passion for horses and join him at several shows. Tatum competed in the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman, presented by MARS Equestrian™, in Fort Worth, too.

Spare time is rare, but when available, Olson returns to his roots and heads to the shop to weld.

“I just randomly build things, like flatbed trailers, saddle racks, a roping chute.,” said Olson. “I like the challenge of not having blueprints, just an idea. Most of my stuff I build with what I have on hand.”

His lack of involvement in horses or

cattle as a kid has driven him to make sure others have the opportunity. One of his missions in life is to give back. He does that as part of his local 4-H council. He also helps local youth interested in the cow horse event at the high school rodeos in South Dakota and Nebraska.

“These kids have so much talent, and their passion and drive is so refreshing for me. It’s the same passion I had, but I didn’t have a way to learn it on a local level. I’m trying to live bigger. I like to keep in touch with the community and pay it forward,” he said.

Olson doesn’t see himself as a goalsetter, but more as a task-oriented guy.

“I have a focus to get from Point A to Point B,” he said. “What I try to do with these horses really depends on the customer. Some don’t have aspirations to go to a horse show. They just want a young horse rode.”

Nonetheless, at some point in his career he hopes to make the Open finals in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® or the finals at the World’s Greatest Horseman event.

“Everyone in this industry has some sort of drive. Whether it’s to keep the bills paid or to see what we can do with the next horse, we have a reason to do what we do. I look out for these horses, and appreciate how much they have given to us. And I want to share that passion with everyone else who loves it.”

One thing that hasn’t changed is Olson’s desire to learn.

“When I first started, all I wanted to do was ride colts and team rope,” he said. “Then I saw a flyer for a cow horse seminar, and all I wanted to do was ride colts and ride cow horses. Things change and your passions change with that. But the biggest thing is to learn. That’s why I put my boots on every morning.”

in 2020, Olson and Sweet like That competed in the World’s Greatest horseman preliminaries. Though he didn’t make the finals, Olson hung in for the four-event competition.

NOTABLE NON PRO

From the floor of the state senate to the dirt of the show pen, Tennessee State Senator paul Bailey and his wife, amy, know how to set goals and get things done.

By Allison Armstrong Rehnborg

Like most reined cow horse enthusiasts who originate from east of the Mississippi, Paul and Amy Bailey’s first introduction to the sport came by happy chance. The couple, who live in Sparta, Tennessee, both grew up surrounded by horses. Paul’s father trained Tennessee Walking Horses, while Amy’s father rode Quarter Horses and kept his daughter mounted on heading and heeling horses. But neither Paul nor Amy had ever seen a cow horse class until the mid1980s. According to Amy, that’s when the Tennessee Quarter Horse Association added cow horse classes to its shows.

“My father used to go to Texas and Oklahoma to qualify horses for Larry McDonald of Lucky B Manufacturing,” said Amy, 51. “Larry furnished the cattle for Quarter Horse shows in our area, so Daddy and Larry talked TQHA into adding cow horse classes. And that’s how I got into cow horse. I’d never seen a cow horse class before the first time I competed in one. The biggest thrill was coming around that corner to start down the fence. That adrenaline rush stuck with me.”

With Amy’s competitive background in breakaway roping, calf roping, head-

ing, and heeling, and Paul’s own affinity for reining, the couple decided to buy their first reiner in the early 1990s from Robert Chown of Gainesville, Texas.

“We went to Texas and bought a horse from Robert Chown, who’s our trainer today, and then we started showing reining and showed reining for about

eight years,” said Paul, 51. “Ultimately, we moved over to reined cow horse because we just loved the cow horse.”

Encouraged to join the National Reined Cow Horse Association by Bob Johnson, an American Quarter Horse Association judge from Burns, Tennessee, the couple became familiar with the tenets of their new discipline by spending hours poring over the NRCHA rulebook and watching a VHS tape of reined cow horse trainer, and NRCHA Hall of Fame member, Lyn Anderson.

“We watched that tape of Lyn’s over and over, just learning how to go down the fence,” Amy reflected. “Because we grew up in the eastern United States, we had not grown up with that history of the cow horse and the Vaquero, so we had no idea of the basis of the event and how it was scored.”

More than 30 years later, the adrenaline rush that first inspired Amy and Paul’s love of the discipline continues to drive the couple’s passions. From the show pen accolades and numerous world championships they’ve each collected over the years to the leadership positions they’ve held within the association, the Baileys seize every opportunity to advance their chosen sport.

For the past eight years, Paul has served as NRCHA vice president and

paul Bailey serves as a Tennessee state senator when he isn’t in the reined cow horse show pen.

currently serves as the chairperson of the executive committee. Together, the Baileys have also helped develop the Dom Conicelli Memorial Eastern Derby (formerly known as the East Coast Reined Cow Horse Classic) into the first NRCHA premier event to be held east of the Mississippi.

“When I think about what I want people to know about us, it’s not that we’re competitive, even though we are, or that we want to have the best horses, which we do want that, but that we want to grow NRCHA and take it as far east as it can go,” Amy said. “We want it to be here for the next generation. Paul and I have both passed the 50-year-old mark, and we know that in the end, it’s not what all you’ve done [that stands out to people], it’s what you’ve done for someone else and what’s [left] after you when you’re gone.”

More than anything, the Baileys want to help people.

“Even on a daily level, we try to accomplish things for others, not self-

centered things, but things that can help the people around us, and our kids, and the future,” Amy explained.

In addition to managing their family’s fourth-generation trucking business, Charles Bailey Trucking in Cookeville, and their own small beef cattle farm in nearby Sparta, Paul serves as a state senator. As senator, Paul represents approximately 250,000 people in six rural counties. It’s not uncommon for his days at work or on the farm to be interrupted by calls and meetings with constituents, city mayors, and councilmen. Paul is also a member of multiple state senatorial committees and the chair of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee.

Amy works full-time as the cash flow manager for Charles Bailey Trucking and is also currently dedicated to helping the couple’s youngest child, 17-year-old Caleb, earn college scholarships. The couple has two other children: Jordan Bailey (31) and Korry Bailey Cole (29), who is married to

Tyler Cole. Korry and Tyler’s six-yearold son, Liam Cole, competes in junior rodeo events in middle Tennessee. There’s nothing Paul and Amy love more than the opportunity to cheer for their grandson.

In short, the Baileys are busy. According to trainer Robert Chown, that’s how they like it.

“A lot of people are talkers, a few people are doers, and the Baileys are doers,” Chown said. “Whether it’s Tennessee politics or NRCHA or AQHA or the board of the county fair, Paul wants to get involved and make things better. And as for Amy, whether it’s stuff she has done for TQHA or wherever else, she is not going to sit on the sidelines.”

With so many demands on their time, the Baileys still make it a priority to ride their horses at Chown Quarter Horses on a monthly basis. Amy’s bridle horse, Electra Tuff (Woody Be Tuff x Electras Boots x Doc O Boots), has carried her to multiple wins in the show pen over

above: Electra Tuff and amy Bailey have quite a successful record competing in bridle events.

left: aboard Stylish Daisy Duke, paul shows in Nrcha derby events.

the years. She also just qualified her second horse, Frankentime (A Chic In Time x Sable Gal x Peppys Boy 895) for the NRCHA World Show in the Non Pro Bridle.

“I’ve got two riding goals I’m looking forward to,” Amy said. “There’s one NRCHA world championship that I have not yet won, and that is the NRCHA Non Pro Bridle. I’ve won the Novice, the hackamore and the two rein, so there’s one more class I want to win. And then I want to try for a snaffle bit horse.”

As for Paul, he currently competes in derbies with Stylish Daisy Duke (Stylish Rey Gay x Classy Smokinlena x Tangys Classy Peppy) in the hackamore and snaffle bit. Because of his busy work schedule, Paul has very little time to ride in between shows, but he’s dedicated to showing “Daisy” to

her best advantage in the pen. The pair was reserve champion in the Non Pro and won the Intermediate at the 2019 NRCHA Celebration of Champions Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby.

“Daisy is an electric-type little cow horse, and she’s very quick, especially in the cutting and going down the fence,” Paul said. “Because of her quickness, and with the limited amount of time I have to ride today, Amy and Robert weren’t always 100-percent sure I would be able to ride her. But the way I see it, I want to show, and I want to win, but I want to enjoy riding and showing because that’s my release valve. I don’t put a lot of pressure on myself to go in and win. I just want to have a good time showing, enjoy the experience, and ride for the moment.”

The Baileys look forward to a bright future for the NRCHA, espe-

Futurity and Derby July 24-26th, 2020

cially with the addition of the Dom Conicelli Eastern Memorial Derby as the country’s eastern-most NRCHA premier event. Paul agreed that watching the sport grow into the east has been rewarding, especially because the organization is made up of people who want to help one another succeed.

“Reined cow horse is a big family,” Paul said. “If you’re a newcomer to NRCHA and you want to get involved, it’s a place where you can walk up to people like Todd Crawford or Corey Cushing and say, ‘Hey, I’m having an issue, can you help me?’ And those guys are more than willing to help. Our Non Pros are that way, too. We support one another even though we’re competing against each other. That’s one of the greatest things about the cow horse is that we’re a friendly, organized group of owners and competitors.”

AN EYE FOR BUSINESS

By Megan Arszman

Dave Pratt knows about fertilizer and storytelling, farming and horseflesh but he knows the most about business. To be successful in business, you must buy low, then sell high and at the right moment. That’s how he’s made his niche within the reined cow horse industry.

“I look at this sport from a business aspect,” the 75-year-old farmer said. “You have to enjoy it first, and then think of it as your business unless you have money to burn.”

FaMilY BUSiNESS

That business-savvy mind runs in the Pratt family. Pratt’s father was a trader, buying and selling anything from land and farms to cotton gins. He farmed on the side; buying and selling held his attention.

The same could be said of his son, Dave, who grew up on a Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, farm in his family for five generations. He spent 37 years in the fertilizer business, handling national accounts. A business proprietor, he buys and sells used farm equipment because he likes to trade, and he and his son, Joe, manage the family rice farm.

The Pratts farm several thousand acres. Dave and Patty, his wife of 49 years, live in the house he built in 1973. He’s proud of that fact and of their modest lifestyle.

As a youngster Pratt hung out with local boys and the group rode their horses and ponies for miles down gravel roads. As a young man Pratt purchased his first yearling for $600 and trained it “in the Bill Horn style” for reining. He sold that filly for a profit after graduating from Arkansas State University, then moved to St. Louis to work for Shell Oil Company—the only time he lived away from home. After a year he moved back to Arkansas to work for the W.R. Grace Company. But

he didn’t return to horse ownership for years, instead focusing on his business and family.

a SharED paSSiON

When first granddaughter, Andie, who is Joe’s daughter, was 4, Pratt took her to lunch. At her urging they stopped by his alma mater to check out a horse show.

“That ended with me buying a leadline pony, then a pleasure pony, then a pleasure horse,” Pratt said. “Then one

Dave pratt uses his business skills to find success in the cow horse industry.

Dave pratt, second from left, and his trainer luke Jones have become more like family than client-customer.

day, Andi said to me, ‘Granddad, these pleasure horses are getting boring.’”

She wanted to do reining, just like he had done. As a freshman, Andie is now on the Baylor University Equestrian Team.

That shared passion has strengthened the grandfather-granddaughter bond. Pratt offers Andi sage advice routinely, suggesting her field to study allow her time to go to show horses. “She doesn’t intend to get out of the horses,” Pratt said. “When her granddad’s gone, she’s working to … obtain her goal of continuing in reining for years to come, and not just quit when she gets out of college.”

Meanwhile, Joe and family are building a house on the farm three miles from Dave and Patty. Their daughter, Jamie, and her three boys live 10 miles away on more family farmland.

“We’re a very close-knit family,” said Pratt. “Nobody in our family has lived away from their home. … My granddaughter is the first to leave the nest.”

And he’s counting down until Andie returns to Arkansas full time. If she doesn’t, he’s jokingly advised, she find

herself a “nice Texas boy whose granddad has at least 20 oil wells pumping 24 hours a day, just so he makes enough money so she can fly home often.”

hOrSE BUSiNESS

Although he and his family members are all avid hunters—duck, deer and turkey, the horse sports keep Pratt young.

“Looking back, I wish I had gotten back into the horse business as soon as I had moved back home from St. Louis,” said Pratt. “That was in the 1970s, … a pretty good growth spell for Quarter Horses.”

After focusing solely on reining with Andi, Pratt tried cutting horses. “I liked it, but I didn’t like how long it took to settle a herd of cattle at the shows,” he said. “Then I started watching the cow horses, and I thought, ‘Now this is a spectator sport.’ So I decided to fly out to Reno and attend the Snaffle Bit Futurity, and that’s where I met Luke Jones.”

The partnership with the National Reined Cow Horse Association professional started immediately in 2008. The pair first partnered on horses that fateful day in Reno. The Jones and Pratt families now are connected by a string of success stories in terms of purchasing quality horses and selling them profitably after the futurity season.

“I don’t buy high-priced horses,” said Pratt. “If I go to a sale and walk into a stall with a horse, if he runs to the back of the stall, I don’t buy him. I buy breeding, but I don’t put a lot of emphasis on it. I buy for conformation and temperament. Luke says I have an eye for horses. … I don’t know if I do or not, but I’ve had a lot of success with low-to-medium-priced horses.”

Jones has found success with Pratt as an owner and partner. The duo’s horses have made the Snaffle Bit Futurity finals at least seven times with Pratt as the current owner. Jones finished reserve in the 2017 World’s Greatest Horseman with Tommy Boon (Thomas E Hughes

his granddaughter, andie, is on the Baylor Univeristy Equestrian Team. pratt and his wife, patty, enjoy attending her riding matches.

x Chitas Blue Boon x Duals Blue Boon), a horse Pratt originally bought before selling it to another Jones’ clients.

“Dave has done very well finding that needle in a haystack or diamondin-the-rough kind of colt,” said Jones. “I’d say every horse I’ve had a lot of success with he’s either owned or he owned that horse previously.”

Jones’ relationship with Pratt is unique. The two do a lot of business together, yet Jones’ three young boys see Pratt as an adopted grandfather.

“He’s just got a wonderful family and I just love those boys,” Pratt said. “And he’s one hell of a hand with a horse.”

Jones feels very lucky to have that relationship.

“It takes owners like Dave for [trainers] to be successful,” said Jones. “Without good owners, we’re not able

to have good horses, go down the road and do what we do. It’s hard to win if you don’t have the horsepower, and it takes owners that are willing to take the [financial] sacrifice to do it.”

Pratt also has imparted business wisdom to the trainer. He’s helped Jones improve his own buying and selling savvy and had fun doing it.

“You have to look at the horse business from a buying perspective as a gratification sport,” said Pratt. “As the owner because you furnish the money. But if you partner with your trainer, it cuts down on your expense, thus gaining the gratification.”

In fact, Pratt is one of Jones’ biggest cheerleaders. Early on, Pratt informed Jones he would help make him a household name in the reined cow horse business.

“When he first said that, you just hope that he follows through with it,” said Jones. “And, he has. He’s done everything he can to help me along the way, and I owe him tons.”

“I’ve just always had this drive,” said Pratt, “even when I wasn’t in the horse business. I’ve learned that if you get the chance to sell a nice horse for a nice profit, you take it. I can’t say that being in the horse business has been profitable either, but I don’t think I’ve lost a lot of money. … Money isn’t any good unless you’re broke and hungry.

“I’m 75 and I try to keep busy, I believe that with people that are getting up in age like I am, if you don’t keep busy, you lose interest and then just sit around. So, I just try to stay busy doing something. Now I do what I want to do, and right now it’s the horses.”

ALL AROUND THE WORLD

check out these moments caught during the 2020 celebration of champions.

Photos by Kate Bradley Byars

During the collegiate cow horse challenge, the Novice division saw a ride-off between Texas a&M University rider Sylvia Nelson and Tarleton State University rider Shadee Tye. Nelson finished reserve, though her teammates cheered her entire go from the gate.

for a total sales tally of

The Winter premier Sale drew a crowd in the Watt arena on finals day, with several horses dropping the hammer

$637,900.

Tucker Gillespie coordinated the Nrchya youth who collected 506 pounds of food for a Food Drive for the Fort Worth hOpE center, which helps people living in low income communities.

The warm-up area in the Will rogers coliseum saw several notable riders, like Tammy hays, abbie phillips and Jessie Telford.

addison pitts, daughter of Deidra pitts of MarS Equestrian, stole the hearts of the crowd riding with chris Dawson aboard Shine Smarter during the World’s Greatest horseman award ceremony.

The National high School rodeo association and the Nrcha celebrated the fifth year of partnership with cow horse a part of the NhSra . in 2020, during the high School rodeo challenge, Trail Townsend won the reserve champion buckle aboard Trr lucky Brazos.

The SDp Buffalo ranch Stallion alley showcase drew a crowd to view some of the industry’s top cutting and reined cow horse studs.

The John Justin arena was packed to watch the World’s Greatest horseman and World’s Greatest Youth horseman steer stopping preliminary round on Thursday, February 20.

linda McMahon of McSpyder ranch hosted a gathering in the trade show before the preliminary round of the cow work. here, Emily Konkel, Nrcha show coordinator, McMahon and her good friend John Vonhurst say hello.

With Nrcha Executive administrator Kelley hartranft singing the National anthem and the flag girls providing the action, the crowd was ready for the 2020 World’s Greatest horseman, presented by DT horses and hashtags, finals!

2020 NRCHA WORLD’S GREATEST HORSEMAN TOP 11

Fort Worth, Texas – February 13-22, 2020

Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score (S-Steer Stopping)/Money

1. Metallic Cat Rose; John Swales; 11M (Metallic Cat x Teletrona x Little Trona); Jerry and Nicole Myer; 878.5 (H:217.5/R:218.5/S:215/C:227.5) $42,000.

2-3. Sparktilion; Jake Telford; 10M (Shining Spark x Cattilion x High Brow Cat); Michelle Cannon; 871.5 (H:220/ R:214.5S:219/C:218); $22,500.

2-3. Duals Lucky Charm; Kelby Phillips; 13G (Dual Smart Rey x TRR Ms Pepcid Olena x Pepcid) JB6 LLC; 871.5 (H:215/ R:220.5/S:214/C:222); $22,500.

4-5. Playin Motown; Ben Baldus; 13G (Mr Playinstylish x Mo Flo x Mr Peponita Flo); Catelyn Walker; 869 (H:214.5/R:219/ S:218.5/C:217); $13,500.

4-5. Smartly Starstruck; Todd Bergen; 12S (Very Smart Remedy x Katie Starlight x Grays Starlight); McSpyder Ranch; 869 (H:212/R:227/S:213/C:217); $13,500.

6. Quahadi; Boyd Rice; 13S (Bet Hesa Cat x Ginnin Attraction x Tanquery Gin); Burnett Ranches LLC; 866 (H:216/R:212/ S:217/C:221); $9,000.

7. LenaLilToTheWright; Randy Paul; 07G (Lenas Wright On x Shining Survivor x Shining Spark); Linda Katz; 863 (H:218.5/ R:220/S:210.5/C:214); $8,000.

8. Red River Rivalry; Shawn Hays; 11S (Soula Jule Star x Shiners Miss Lena x Shining Spark); Tammy Hays and Walter Greeman; 859 (H:216/R:200/S:218/C:225); $7,000.

9. Shine Smarter; Chris Dawson; 12M (WR This Cats Smart x Shiney Tari x Shining Spark); Linda Mars; 853 (H:214/ R:222.5/S:200/C:216.5); $6,000.

10. Wranglered; Luke Jones; 11S (Starlights Wrangler x Snow White Dun It x Hollywood Dun It); Dell and Terri Hendricks; 850 (H:209/R:211.5/S:220/C:209.5); $5,000.

11. Truly Screyumptious; Wade Meador; 11M (Dual Smart Rey x Meleena Olena x Smart Chic Olena); David Smith/Laura Fox; 832.5 (H:219/R:211/S:192/C:210.5); $5,000.

OYAL ROSE R

By Kate Bradley Byars

True grit, speed and a little bit of luck led to John Swales capturing his second World’s Greatest horseman title, this time aboard Metallic cat rose.

The crowd’s cheering in the John Justin Arena nearly overpowered the blast of the judge’s horn signaling the end of John Swales’ cow work final run aboard Metallic Cat Rose. But, luckily, the horn blew just prior to the mare slipping down, ensuring a penalty-free run that garnered the high score of the night, a 227.5, and earned Swales and the 9-year-old mare the illustrious title of World’s Greatest Horseman champions.

The 2020 DT Horses/Hashtags’ World Greatest Horseman competition kicked off on Sunday, February 16, with the preliminary herd work that saw 50 horse and rider pairs vying for a finals slot. After a week of competition, it took a minimum cumulative score of 870.5 to advance to the Saturday, February 22, finals.

Eleven horses made that cut. When the dust settled it was Swales, of Millarville, Alberta, Canada, and Metallic Cat Rose (Metallic Cat x Teletrona x Little Trona), owned by Jerry and Nicole Myer, on top.

Though he first entered the World’s Greatest Horseman four-event competition in 2007, it wasn’t until 2017 that he won it riding Heza Diamond Spark. Just three years later, the Canadian horseman is back on top.

“They are actually very similar horses; they both take a lot of riding,” he said of Metallic Cat Rose and Heza Diamond Spark. “She is tough, tough, tough. You know, she can just go and go.”

For Swales, who earned his second World’s Greatest Horseman title, it was a stressful show.

DT horses joined forces with hashtags to present the 2020 World’s Greatest horseman. Owned by Dean Tuftin, DT horses is no stranger to the event, owning the winning 2018 mount, hickory holly Time (One Time pepto x hickorys holly cee x Doc’s hickory), ridden by Kelby phillips. With more than 15 years in the rope horse industry, Tuftin stepped into the reined cow horse world in a big way. Today, phillips trains from the DT horses facility outside of Scottsdale, arizona, and while continuing to produce award-winning roping horses, the “DT” name is now well known in cow horse. in 2016, DT horses joined the National reined cow horse association’s sponsor line up. Their continued support now extends to sponsoring the first cow horse invitational at the run For a Million event. For more information, visit www. dthorses.com.

hashtags (Metallic cat x Dual rey Tag x Dual rey) and trainer Tatum rice became household names in the National cutting horse association through the horse’s multiple wins and searing arena performances. in 2018, the stallion’s final year of competition, the pair earned the Ncha Open World championship. it was one more title to add to the 2013 blue roan stallion’s extensive resume, and it included setting an Equi-Stat Ncha earnings record for the year: $473,635.

“hashtags is just a great individual,” said rice. “he makes it easy. Mind, heart, cow sense and strength.”

Owned by the hashtag Ventures lp group, of Weatherford, Texas, hashtags became a named sponsor of the Nrcha in 2019, the same year that his first foals hit the ground. For more information on h ashtags, visit www.brazos valleystallionstation.com.

“It was pretty stressful but it turns out fun in the end,” he said. “Maybe I wasn’t as scared this time [as in 2017], but it was pretty much the same to get ready.”

The mare joined Swales’ program from Chance Harmon’s barn late in her 4-yearold show year. Though Swales showed her through derby events and into her two-rein year and brought her to compete in the World’s Greatest Horseman

in 2018, this is the first event final for the two. Most recently, owner Nicole Myer has shown the horse in Non Pro events.

The decision to aim at the crowd-pleasing event wasn’t made until late last year.

“We decided in late November that we would bring her here. She stays really good no matter who is in the saddle,” Swales said. “You need a good athlete with a solid mind for this event. They

after a grueling multi-event week, Metallic cat rose pulled through for rider John Swales.

“She

still had some gas in the tank for the fence work tonight. her strongest event is the fence work and she is fun to show down the fence; she pretty much goes on autopilot.”—John Swales

have to be durable because it’s a long process to get to the finals, then finals day you do all four events in one day and it can be quite taxing on them.”

Finalists in the event compete in all four events—herd work, rein work, steer stopping and fence work—on finals day. It can be grueling for horses that have shown all week. Drawing up fifth in the finals cow work, Swales credits the mare’s big motor with getting through a satisfying run with a score that held up.

“She still had some gas in the tank for the fence work tonight. Her strongest event is the fence work and she is fun to show down the fence; she pretty much goes on autopilot,” he recalled. “It was a fantastic fence work—cows were good and horses were great. [My run] felt pretty good and I was just hoping the judges saw it the same way.”

Judges Ron Emmons, Lance Johnston, Smoky Pritchett, Sam Rose and Karl Smith did see it that way, crediting the run with the high 227.5 score. The crowd was electric throughout the night, but as each team made a run down the fence, the noise grew until the judge’s horn could barely be heard, even by the riders. Commentator Russell Dilday said it was one of the best fence work finals he has ever seen.

In addition to earning $42,000—$2,000 more than the 2019 purse—Swales and the Myers won a plethora of awards for the win, including a custom Sami Fine Jewelry silver and diamond ring,

aboard Duals lucky charm, Kelby phillips made another run at the World’s Greatest horseman title, having previously won it riding hickory holly Time. This year, he tied for reserve.

Jake Telford and Sparktilion took the high score of the finals day’s first event, the herd work, with a 220. Eventually, the pair tied for reserve champion with Kelby phillips and Duals lucky charm.

ScOriNG hOrSES

awarded a Gist custom buckle sponsored by DT horses and hashtags, these horse and rider pairs topped their respective event in the preliminary round.

hErD WOrK:

clint allen and Magic Metalman – 223 a searing score of 223 in the herd work earned clint allen and 2012 gelding Magic Metalman (Metallic cat x Sweet abra x abrakadabracre), the high scoring preliminary win for owner Mandy chisum.

STEEr STOppiNG: 227.5

Wranglered (Starlights Wrangler x Snow White Dun it x hollywood Dun it), owned by Dell and Terri hendricks, shot out of the roping box on a mission and rider luke Jones stuck it on the steer for a dramatic finish to the high scoring run of 227.5 in preliminary round.

rEiN WOrK:

randy paul and lenalilToTheWright – 223.5 lenalilToTheWright (lenas Wright On x Shining Survivor x Shining Spark), owned by linda Katz, and randy paul put together a pretty preliminary rein work run to garner a 223.5 from the judges.

cO W WOrK: chris Dawson and Shine Smarter - 225 aboard linda Mars’ mare Shine Smarter (Wr This cats Smart x Shiney Tari x Shining Spark) chris Dawson captured the high scoring preliminary cow work run with a 225.

Martin Saddlery custom saddle, Gist Silversmiths custom buckle, CR Morrison trophy sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags, Platinum Performance products, Nile crocodile boots from Rios of Mercedes Boot Company, UltraCruz products from Santa Cruz Animal Health and a Classic Equine monogrammed fleece cooler. Plus, the pair earned major bragging rights for the athletic mare.

When Swales was one of three left standing on the fence alongside Jake Telford riding Sparktilion (Shining Spark x Cattilion x High Brow Cat) and Kelby Phillips riding Duals Lucky Charm (Dual Rey x TRR Ms Pepcid Olena x Pepcid), the tension of not knowing the winner was evident. In the end, two were named reserve champion with a tie at a cumulative score of 871.5; Phillips and Telford shared the title on their talented horses.

The standing room only crowd in Fort Worth, Texas, got a show during the DT Horses/Hashtags’ World’s Greatest Horseman event, that is a certainty. It is fitting the World’s Greatest Horseman title encompasses a Canadian owner and rider team this year.

“It is super exciting—pretty unreal,” Swales said. “I can’t believe it happened again.”

The crowd got rocking as each of the 11 finalists and their horses were introduced before the event kicked off in the John Justin arena.

cow

UCKY UNDER

THE LIGHTS L

Trail Townsend and Trr lucky playgun came to the 2020 World’s Greatest Youth horseman with a plan, and together took home the title.

By Kate Bradley Byars

Trail Townsend finished the 2020 MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman on the opposite end of the 2019 results—in the winner’s circle.

While the 17-year-old from Earth, Texas, made the 2019 six- rider final, he finished last. In 2020, his experience with the event and confidence in his horse propelled him to the top, and the honor of being named the second ever World’s Greatest Youth Horseman.

As he was the last rider standing on the rail when the placings were called the evening of Saturday, February 22, young Trail was all smiles. Earlier in the day, he had finished reserve in the High School Challenge riding his younger mount. Now, he was the champion.

“Going into the week I didn’t know how things would turn out, but I kept a positive attitude,” he said. “I am super happy to win all those things. I really wanted to win the Youth World’s Greatest or one day the World’s Greatest, so winning one—I was really happy!”

TRR Lucky Playgun, a gray gelding

that his father, Tripp, purchased as a 2-year-old from the Tongue River Ranch in Paducah, Texas, did double duty during the show week. Both Tripp and Trail competed in the World’s Greatest event, with Tripp in the Open. The ranch mount turned show horse was up to the chal-

MARS EQUESTRIAN™ WORLD’S GREATEST YOUTH HORSEMAN OVERALL RESULTS

Results (Rider/Score/Owner/Earnings):

1. Trail Townsend; TRR Lucky Playgun (Pepcid x TRR Ms Lucky Gun x Playgun); Tripp Townsend; 727; $2,262.

2. Dillon Cox; BLT Smart Little Rey (ARC Little Rey x Haidas Addition x Haidas Little Pep); Circle C Ranch; 719; $1,809.60.

3. Cutter McLaughlin; DT Whiskey Shine (Paddys Irish Whiskey x Smart Shinealo x Smart Shiner); Jay and Wendy McLaughlin; 718; $1,357.20.

4. Pierce Wold; Real Smooth Cat (Smooth As A Cat x Real Plain Jane x Real Doc); Ken and Ramona Wold; 715.5; $904.80.

5. Dakota Cox; Metallic Dual Pep (Metallic Cat x Playgirls Miss Grace x Mister Dual Pep); Circle C Ranch; 712.5; $678.60.

6. Kate Buchanan; A Time For Jazz (One Time Pepto x Starlight And Jazz x Grays Starlight); Anne Buchanan; 711.5; $527.80.

With a

willing to work with him, Trail Townsend put together a cow work run that got the crowd roaring approval and the judge’s awarding credit.

lenge of carrying two highly competitive riders.

“Motown” as he is called did his job with ease.

“I’ve been showing him for five years now and I know his strong and weak points,” Trail said. “That helps, when you’ve been showing your horse for a long time and you know when to help or leave him alone. He is strictly a show horse now, but once a month or so we will use him on the ranch. He was strictly a ranch horse then we realized how good he was, and now he is a show horse. To give him a break from circles and running and stopping, we do some work on him.”

And did Trail and Motown ever do some work! The pair scored a cumulative 727 to earn $2,262 for the win. In the event immediately prior to deciding the top six riders that made the finals in the John Justin arena, the herd work, Trail scored a 141. Earlier in the week, the duo steer stopped to a 149, worked a cow to a 145.5 and in rein work the pair marked a 143.

Tripp showed Motown in each event before Trail, and that helped Trail score well in the reining.

“The horse only had one bobble and that was in the reining,” Tripp explained. “After Trail watched me show, he knew what to watch for—and he did better than me in the reining! Last year, Trail barely got in the finals. He knew he had nothing to lose so he was a little too aggressive, tried a little too hard and it backfired on him to where he finished sixth. This year, he went in tied for the lead and we talked to him about not trying to protect the lead but to go for it. This year, he was pushing but wanted to stay in control. It worked this time.”

That experience, and what Trail describes as his maturity since last year, helped him keep his nerves in check during the final fence run. He and Dillon

Cox, of Pleasant Prairie, Arkansas, were tied in first place with scores of 578.5 before riding in front of the finals night crowd.

Trail handled his cow, made a run down the fence, then woke the crowd up when he began to circle. The young man pulled out an old-school move when he used his romal end to hustle his horse.

“I wanted to be clean and have a good run. As soon as I loped into the pen, I could feel that I was about to have a good run,” Trail said. “Not a lot of people [pop] their horse circling, but the end of the romal was put there for a reason. That horse, he gets a little lazy circling, and I didn’t want him to fall behind the cow, so I popped him a few times to let him know to do his job. It worked and I was happy with it!”

At the back gate, the adrenaline that pumped Trail up to pop the horse had his dad anxious.

“I was at the back gate with Chris Dawson and Ben Baldus, and while I knew it was legal, I asked them if it was too much,” Tripp said. “They said that is what it was for, so it was ok! I guess Trail did right by encouraging him with the romal.”

The judges also enjoyed the run, marking Trail over Dillon Cox and BLT Smart Little Rey. It was an ending that Tripp would’ve picked over any other. The rancher described his son as dedicated to horses, even giving up the track team at public school to spend more time with his horses.

“Trail does not love what I do, which is riding pens at a feed yard, doctoring cattle and checking cows,” said Tripp. “There are lots of days where I am cowboying; Trail likes to do more training. He has experienced cowboying and has helped his roping. He loves to ride and loves to be training. He works at it pretty hard. It was a special occasion. We are pretty tickled.”

Though tied going into the final cow work, Dillon cox finished reserve and eight points behind the champion.

MEET MarS EQUESTriaN™ /////

For generations, MarS has celebrated a rich equestrian heritage, and through purposeful partnerships, MarS Equestrian™ is committed to the sport and building enduring legacy. This is one reason why MarS Equestrian, sponsored by Mars, incorporated, is the presenting sponsor of the World’s Greatest Youth horseman in 2020.

“Youth riders are the future of our industry, and we need to present them with an opportunity to shine on a big stage,” said linda Mars. “Sponsoring the Youth World’s Greatest is one way we want to help grow the sport.”

With 17 entrants in the Youth division, it is evident that there are handy young riders eager to try their hand at the four-event competition. and MarS Equestrian is happy to help them achieve their goals. From world-class competitions across all equestrian disciplines, to stewarding the power of horses on society and sustainability, MarS Equestrian is dedicated in our purpose to improve the lives of horses, pets and the people who love them. For more information on the event’s sponsor, visit www.marsequestrian.com, or find MarS on Facebook and instagram @marsequestrian.

In 2019, Trail planned to show TRR Lucky Brazos (Pepcid x TRR Miss Lucky Gun x Playgun) in the Snaffle Bit Futurity®, but his father showed the horse instead, earning the Limited Open Champion title. Now, Trail shows the horse. He also has another Snaffle Bit prospect. The young man has the horse show bug, bad.

While the goal is to win, Trail describes the Youth event as a friendly competition among a lot of riders who know each other. For the homeschooled student, horse shows are a chance to be among like-minded people.

“When you finish a run, everybody fist bumps you. I would say that we all

Following a grueling week of competition, the six Youth riders left competing anxiously awaited the results.

Joined by Nrcha and MarS Equestrian presenters, and his family, Trail Townsend was all smiles when presented his champion awards.

From left, Zach Berry of MarS, Nrcha president corey cushing, and Deidra pitts of MarS Equestrian present Dillon cox with the reserve World’s Greatest Youth horseman.

want to win ourselves but we are happy and supportive of each other,” said Trail. “It was really tight this year. This is the toughest, most fun horse show we go to. Everybody wants to be the Youth World’s Greatest and it’s just going to keep growing.”

In addition to being appreciative of the support from his family and friends, Trail thanked NRCHA professional Jay McLaughlin for helping him gain a little something extra in the show pen. Confident in his showmanship and his horse, Trail was able to tackle a big dream and walk away with the win.

However, he has no plans to stop showing. As Tripp said, a rider is only as good as their horse, and the Townsends are blessed with a great horse.

“Motown gets a few weeks off,” said Trail. “But then I’m headed to the Stallion Stakes.”

///// rOY EDSall MEMOrial SchOlarShip aWarDED

The

2020 roy Edsall Memorial award adds to the prestige of the MarS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth horseman with its second annual awarding. a custom, trophy bit—handmade by randy paul—and a $2,000 scholarship is awarded to one participant. The bit was designed by clayton Edsall and is presented in honor of his late brother, roy.

clayton Edsall and his family were on hand, along with maker

BrEEDEr DirEcTOrY

Rogers Heaven Sent Ranch of Tucson, Arizona, was founded by the Rogers family in 2005, starting out with just two personal horses. Since then, Rogers Heaven Sent Ranch has grown into a full service facility, breeding and showing some of the best Quarter Horses the industry has to offer.

Rogers Heaven Sent Ranch also maintains an Organic Alfalfa operation and they raise Certified Organic Black Angus Beef. Learn more about them on the web at www.RogersHSR.com.

Manion Ranch and Smooth As A Cat are proud to team up with the NRCHA. Already producing NRCHA offspring earnings in excess of $1.3 million dollars (as of 01/01/20) and named an NRCHA elite sire is only the tipping point of what is yet to transpire for this stallion who has NCHA lifetime earnings in excess of $500,000. He was an NCHA Horse Of The Year, is an NCHA Hall of Fame Horse; he also won multiple NCHA Championships and was a Finalist 43 times. Smooth As A Cat is the only Horse Of The Year to sire two NCHA Open Horses Of the Year.

Smooth As A Cat has been ranked 4th or higher of NCHA leading sires for 9 consecutive years. Smooth As A Cat’s offspring have won in excess of $28.8 million dollars and he has sired champions and money earners out of mares by 40 + plus different bloodlines and the list of accomplishments goes on. Smooth As A Cat stands at Weatherford Equine Breeding Center.

Metallic Cat (High Brow Cat x Chers Shadow x Peptoboonsmal), owned by Rocking P Ranch, is a $33 Million Dollar Sire. “Denver” was also crowned National Cutting Horse Association Open Horse of the Year, 2016, 2017, 2018 NCHA Sire of the Year and 2017, 2018 NRCHA Leading Sire. He is the second highest money-earning stallion in the history of the NCHA. His latest milestone is becoming an NRCHA Million Dollar Sire, with more than $3 million in cow horse offspring earnings. For more information on Metallic Cat, visit metalliccat.com.

SDP Buffalo Ranch - Where the Elite Are Found… For nearly 50 years, SDP Buffalo Ranch has paved a path of success in the horse industry. We know what it takes to be successful in breeding and performance at the highest levels. SDP Buffalo Ranch is all about the people. They are really in the people business, horses are just the product. SDP Buffalo Ranch are committed to excellence in stallion service, horsemanship and customer relations. Your success is their success! We offer full service Equine Reproductive services. See their stallion line up at http://www.SDPBuffaloRanch.com

BadBoonaRising, owned Plantation Farms LLC, is sired by Million Dollar Sire Once In A Blu Boon and out of Show Biz Kitty, by High Brow Cat. In 2018, BadBoonaRising captured the National Cutting Horse Association Open Futurity reserve championship title, under the guidance of Adan Banuelos. The 2015 stallion has gone on to become a multiple-time finalist and 2019 Idaho CHA Open Derby Champion, earning more than $293,000. BadBoonaRising stands to the public at Brazos Valley Stallion Station, in Stephenville, Texas. For more information, visit badboonarising.com and follow him on Facebook.

Holy Cow Performance Horses LLC, with locations in Santa Ynez, California, and Weatherford, Texas, has become a leading breeder and owner of reined cow horses, reining horses, and cutting horses. Breeding, raising and showing quality performance Quarter Horses is a passion at Holy Cow - dedicated to raising quality performers that are world class in their respective fields. Holy Cow is home to some of the finest broodmares in the industry, including top reined cow horse producer Sheza Shinette. Their sponsorship and support of the NRCHA includes the $25,000 added to the Open Bridle Spectacular at the NRCHA Stallion Stakes, $25,000 added to the CD Survivor Memorial Open Bridle Spectacular at the NRCHA Derby and $25,000 added to the Open Bridle class at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity.

Learn more about Holy Cow Performance Horses at www.HolyCowPerformanceHorses.com.

Legendary Quarter Horses and superior Black Angus cattle are hallmarks of the “Four Sixes,” a historic Texas ranch that is part of Burnett Ranches, LLC. The ranch stands some of the most well-respected Quarter Horse stallions in the industry, with elite broodmares that produce superior individuals for work and racing.

Brother Jackson (Peptoboonsmal x Shes Icing Onthe Cat x High Brow Cat) is a 2009 AQHA Sorrel Stallion with multiple titles to his credit including 2017 CD Memorial Bridle Spectacular Champion. Dan Perez owns the stallion that has earnings of more than $140,000, he also has more than 100 AQHA points. He is trained and shown by Ken Wold and stands at Wolds’ Training Stables & Stallion Services in Wilton, California.

Hickory Holly Time is a 2010 red roan stallion sired by One Time Pepto and out of Hickorys Holly Cee owned by DT Horses with LTE well over $225,000. His achievements span all the NRCHA disciplines: Snaffle Bit - 2013 NRCHA Intermediate Open Futurity Champion, 2014 NRCHA Open Derby Champion, Hackamore – 2015 NRCHA Open Hackamore Champion and now Bridle, 2018 World’s Greatest Horseman Champion. He is tested as 5 Panel N/N and is currently standing at Oswood Stallion Station. Visit him on the web at http://oswoodstallionstation.com/ hickoryhollytime, or on Facebook HickoryHollyTime or at www.dthorses.com/stallions.

Time For The Diamond (One Time Pepto x Diamonds With Style x Playin Stylish), owned by Triple D Ranches, is the 2013 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Champion. Trained and shown by NRCHA Professional Nick Dowers, Time For The Diamond has career earnings of nearly $150,000. Time For The Diamond stands at Oswood Stallion Station in Weatherford, Texas. For more information, visit www.NickDowers.com.

Stevie Rey Von (Metallic Cat x Miss Ella Rey x Dual Rey), owned by Fults Ranch LTD, has $420,928 in lifetime earnings. This sire’s outstanding pedigree matches his moves in the show pen. At the 2018 NCHA Super Stakes, “Stevie” set an arena record-breaking score of 231 to win the class; along with many other championship titles, including the 2015 NCHA Open Futurity. Stevie’s first foal crop arrived in 2018, and they are definitely looking the part. For more information on Stevie follow him on Facebook or visit steviereyvon.com.

Reyzin The Cash (Dual Rey x Spookys Cash x Miss N Cash), owned by Iron Rose Ranch, won six open championship titles throughout his show career. The most impressive wins were earning backto-back championship crowns at the 2015 and 2016 National Cutting Horse Association Derby. Reyzin The Cash is a multiple-time limited aged event finalist, bringing his lifetime earnings to $278,381. The 2011 sorrel stallion’s first limited foal crop will hit the show pen in the fall of 2020. They all have promising futures, carrying the positive traits of their sire.

The skill and experience of Jeremy Barwick, Dr. Charlie Buchanan and staff make Brazos Valley Stallion Station in Stephenville, Texas, unique among breeding and performance horse establishments, and a vital center for horse owners, competitors and breeders. Find them on the web at http://www.brazosvalleystallionstation.com

Western Bloodstock is the trusted name in performance horse sales, and is proud to produce and manage this year’s National Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales! Visit them on the web at www. WesternBloodstock.net.

Kit Kat Sugar (High Brow Cat x Sugar N Dulce x Smart Lil Ricochet) has lifetime earnings of $240,903. He earned six limited aged event championships and was named the 2012 National Cutting Horse Association Horse of the Year as a 4-year-old. “Skeet” has passed on his athleticism, style and character to his offspring, who have already amassed more than $1.8 million in the cutting and cow horse arenas.

“Skeet” is owned by Barbara Allsup and stands at Brazos Valley Stallion Station in Stephenville, Texas. For more information on Kit Kat Sugar, follow him on Facebook or visit www.brazosvalleystallionstation.com.

Smooth Talkin Style (Smooth As A Cat x Stylish Play Lena x Docs Stylish Oak), owned by Holmes and Hill, was a force to be reckoned with in the show pen, claiming numerous coveted titles including National Cutting Horse Association Open Horse of the Year, NCHA Open Futurity Reserve Champion, Super Stakes Open Co-Champion and Breeders Invitational Champion. Stylish Play Lena, his dam, has produced more than $1.9 million dollars in earnings, with a staggering $95,000 average earnings per offspring. Smooth Talkin Style is Stylish Play Lena’s leading stallion offspring with earnings in excess of $305,284. According the NCHA, “Talker” is a record setting Open Horse of the Year, accumulating more than 700 points in less than 9 months of showing; thus, securing the coveted title of Horse of the Year by August of his 4-year-old year. Smooth Talkin Style retired to the breeding barn, completely sound, at the end of his 4-year-old year. This sire’s first foal crop arrived in 2017 and are set to hit the show pen in 2020! Smooth Talkin Style is 5-panel genetic tested as N/N. Follow Talker on Facebook/ Instagram @SmoothTalkinStyle, and visit him at www. smoothtalkinstyle.com.

Hashtags (Metallic Cat x Dual Rey Tag) has lifetime earnings of $478,571. A 2018 NCHA Open World Champion and World Champion Stallion trained and shown by Tatum Rice, Hashtag’s first foal crop arrived in 2019.

“Hashtags is just a great individual,” said Rice. “He makes it easy! Mind, heart, cow sense and strength.” The stallion is owned by Hashtag Ventures LP and standing at Brazos Valley Stallion Station in Stephenville, TX. For more information on Hashtags, follow him on Facebook or visit www. brazosvalleystallionstation.com.

Metallic Rebel (Metallic Cat x Sweet Abra x Abrakadabracre) is owned by Tom and Lisa Guinn, and trained by NCHA Multi-Million Dollar Rider Beau Galyean. Rebel’s accomplishments include 2017 NCHA Open Horse of the Year, NCHA World Champion stallion, 13 aged event championships, three reserve championship titles and is a 33-time event finalist; accumulating over $420,000 in lifetime earnings. As he transitions from the show pen to the breeding barn, this sire’s first offspring, arriving in 2018, are displaying not only his tremendous character, but also his incredible confirmation. For more information, visit metallicrebel. com and follow him on Facebook.

Owned by Beverly Servi, BET HESA BOON (Bet Hesa Cat x Flo N Blu Boon x Pretty Boy Boon) is a 2014 homozygous roan with LTE of $62,940 dollars. His outstanding pedigree and demeanor match his impressive conformation and performance record. “Boon” was a finalist at every premiere NRCHA Derby event, and is a two-time National Stock Horse Association Derby Champion. Cow horse, cutting, reining, ranch versatility – he can do it all! Boon is six-panel N/N genetic tested. Add a little Boon to your breeding program! He’s guaranteed roan! Look for Boon in the show pen with Clayton Edsall and check him out on Facebook, www.808ranch.com or at Oswood Stallion Station.

Matthews Cutting Horses, ownerd and operated by Jeffrey and Sheri Matthews, is the home of NRCHA $3 Million Dollar Sire One Time Pepto (Peptoboonsmal x One Time Soon x Smart Little Lena).

Matthews Cutting Horses is well known for superior performance horse bloodlines. The Matthews breeding program is built on extraordinary pedigrees and exceptional performances. His first foals came of show age in 2010, an in 2014 One Time Pepto was the No. 1 NRCHA Sire. In 2015, he was the leading sire of NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sale horses. One Time Pepto’s performing foals have earned more than $17 million in all disciplines. Learn more about One Time Pepto at www.onetimepepto.com.

INISHING STRONG F

By Kristin Pitzer

Thirteen riders garnered 15 national titles to wrap up the 2019 show season.

Riding for a national title takes hard work, perseverance and sometimes a sense of humor. During the 2020 National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions, 13 riders were honored with prestigious year-end titles for earning the most points in their respective divisions for the 2019 show season, which ran November 16, 2018, to November 15, 2019. Exhibitors had one more chance to earn points, and possibly a world title, during the 2020 Celebration of Champions.

OpEN BriDlE

Short N Catt/Phillip Ralls

After Phillip Ralls got Short N Catt (Sophisticated Catt x Shortys Sugar Sue x Shorty Lena) into his program two years ago, he started the bay gelding in the bridle then showed him periodically, trying to get him solid and prepared. In 2019, though, he took the brake off and hit the majority of the bigger shows, winning the Open Bridle at the NRCHA Derby and Reno SBF. The pair finished the show season with 229 points to win the Open Bridle National Champion title.

“He’s been really coming on and being a really consistent, gritty show horse,” Ralls said. “When the dust settled and it was all done at the end of the year, we were still sitting on top. He also won his region [Southwest], and it was a big year for him.”

Ralls thanked owner Sarah Davis for the opportunity to ride “Jag,” who was bred by Tommy and Jessica Mather. He praised the gelding’s fence work, describing the horse as fast, gritty and able handle just about any cow given.

Ralls expects to slow down a little with the 9-year-old this year, although he plans to show him in some bridle spectacular events.

“I think we’ll kind of save him for some of the bigger events,” Ralls said. “He doesn’t really owe us anything. It was definitely a nice feather in his cap to be able to cap the year off—there were lots of good bridle horses going this year. I was proud of him.”

Photos by Primo Morales

liMiTED OpEN BriDlE

Nic It Smartly/Bob Grant

Bob Grant hadn’t been paying any attention to the NRCHA national standings in 2019, so when one of his owners told him he was high in the rankings, it came as a surprise. A third place in the 2019 NRCHA World Champions was all he needed to seal the Limited Open Bridle National Champion title with 142 points aboard Nic It Smartly (Nic It In The Bud x Shining Smartly x Shining Spark). The Arizona horseman also placed third in the national standings with Paddysstarlightchic.

Grant has ridden reined cow horses for more than 10 years but said he’s done a lot more of it lately, thanks to the nice horses his customers have brought him. He also competes in ranch versatility.

“We really like the reined cow horse and the owners like the reined cow horse—some are showing in the boxing and wanting to go down the fence, so it’s all kind of growing a little bit,” Grant said.

Nic It Smartly’s owner, Cynthia Baker,

is a cutter who got into cow horses about four years ago. She still cuts, but also enjoys the boxing with her gelding.

“He’s been an awesome horse,” Grant said of “Sparky,” who was bred by Richard Bell. “We’ve shown him in versatility, ranch riding, roped on him — he does everything. We call him ‘Sparky the Wonder Horse.’

“I have just such really great owners that are wanting to show, and they have really great horses,” Grant said. “I couldn’t ask for anything better than that. They’re super, and the horses are outstanding. It’s almost more than I can bear!”

NON prO BriDlE

Cutter McLaughlin/CD Dee Vee Dee

Cutter McLaughlin is no stranger to the limelight. At 16 years of age, the young rider has garnered seven national titles and three world championships. The majority of those have been with his frequent partner in crime, CD Dee Vee Dee (CD Lights x Shiners Missy Jay x Shining Spark), who Cutter rode to

178 points to win the Non Pro Bridle National Championship.

Cutter was particularly excited to win the Non Pro title with “DVD,” who is 15 years old and was bred by Carol Rose. He plans to keep showing the gelding this year and hopes to compete with him for many years yet.

“I just wanted to try to win as much as I could on him this year,” Cutter said of DVD.

Cutter thanked his parents, Jay and Wendy McLaughlin, for their part in his success.

YOUTh BriDlE

Cutter McLaughlin/ DT Whiskey Shine

This year Cutter McLaughlin also picked up the Youth Bridle National title with DT Whiskey Shine (Paddys Irish Whiskey x Smart Shinealo x Smart Shiner) after accumulating a whopping 148 points.

“It was great, especially because it was on two different horses,” Cutter said.

When Cutter started riding Canyon Horse Sales LLC-bred DT Whiskey Shine two years ago, he said making the switch

Bob Grant and Nic it Smartly

cutter Mclaughlin and cD Dee Vee Dee

from his tried-and-true mount, CD Dee Vee Dee to “Yahtzee” was different, but he appreciated the experience of learning a new horse. At the 2020 Celebration of Champions, the young rider piloted Yahtzee (Paddys Irish Whiskey x Smart Shinealo x Smart Shiner) to third place in the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman and to the Youth Bridle Reserve World Championship.

“[My goal was] to try to win the nation on him,” Cutter said. “He’s the sweetest horse you could ever be around, pretty easy-going.”

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO BriDlE/NOVicE NON prO BriDlE

Katherine DeHaan/Shiners Lil Nickle

When Katherine DeHaan, DVM, first saw Shiners Lil Nickle (Shiners Nickle x Lil Lena Long Legs x Smart Little Lena) as a 3-year-old, she fell in love with the colt. She watched him show as an Open horse and even told his breeder, Michelle Cannon, that she would “die to even be able to ride a horse like him, let alone own him.”

Fortunately, it didn’t come to that, but the circumstances came together for her to buy the stallion in October of 2018. A little over a year later, she and “Peso” achieved two NRCHA National Championships, riding to the Intermediate Non Pro Bridle with 229 points and the Novice Non Pro Bridle with 258. They also won the World Championship in the Intermediate Non Pro Bridle with a 432 total on two (R:214.5/C:217.5) and were Reserve in the Novice Non Pro Bridle.

“When I got him, my goal was to win the regional championship,” said DeHaan, who is an equine veterinarian. “We did that, thank goodness, and then our region, the Northwest, is really tough. That just kind of catapulted me in the national standings.”

Despite not showing at many premier events in 2019, the pair won 15 buckles. DeHaan said Peso been the kindest and most willing horse she’s ever been around, always giving 100%.

“The whole year has been a dream,” said DeHaan, thanking Cannon and her coach, Dan Roeser. “I think that there was

only one show that we didn’t get a check. It’s just been a pretty surreal season. I’m incredibly fortunate.”

OpEN hacK aMOrE

Plain Catty/Jake Gorrell

Two years ago, Plain Catty (Bet Hesa Cat x Miss Plain Plain x Just Plain Colonel) carried California horseman Jake Gorrell to the 2017 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Championship. He missed a couple shows after that but proved throughout 2019 he still had what it took to win, garnering 204 points for the Open Hackamore National Championship.

“It’s kind of nice to see a horse you go win on come back and keep winning,” Gorrell said. “It just kind of proves that it’s not just a fluke deal, which we knew, but it’s just as nice.

“At the Futurity, he was super confident, and he’s always been that way,” Gorrell said. “He’s gotten a little bit stronger physically, so he can handle this pressure a little bit more.”

Gorrell was particularly excited to win the title for owners Larry and Ellen Bell,

cutter Mclaughlin and DT Whiskey Shine

Katherine Dehaan and Shiners lil Nickle

and their son Matthew Bell, of Kalpowar Quarter Horses, who purchased the stallion from breeder Kevin Cantrelle. Cantrelle raised Plain Catty and sent him to Mark Luis, who started him as a 2-year-old. After the horse did not attain the sale reserve at the 2016 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity sale, Cantrelle sent him to Gorrell and continued to own him through his 4-year-old year. The Bells purchased the stallion a year ago.

Gorrell has already started Plain Catty in the two rein as the next step in the process into the bridle, but that move hasn’t come without some wistfulness.

“He’s the best hackamore horse I’ve ever had,” Gorrell said. “He’s awesome. I hate to quit showing him in that.”

liMiTED OpEN hacKaMOrE

Just Call Me Earl/Sunni McCormick Just Call Me Earl (Once In A Blu Boon x CP Peekn Sneakn Blue x Peeka Pep) was originally purchased for his owner, Devon Camilleri, to ride. Camilleri was returning from a four-year hiatus from

showing, though, and was a little hesitant to step back into the show pen, so she asked her trainer, Sunni McCormick, to step aboard instead. That move set up “Earl” and McCormick for a “huge” year that ended with the Limited Open Hackamore National title, which they won with 132 points.

“I’m just so excited beyond words,” McCormick said. “This little horse, it’s funny because he’s kind of the underdog. He’s a little dude, and he’s not much of a looker, so I feel like people don’t really see us coming. But when he steps into that arena, he’s got a really big presence and he gives 120%.”

McCormick said she couldn’t believe how far Earl, a 5-year-old gelding bred by Lassen Land and Livestock, had taken her this year. Next year, though, she will be handing the reins back over to Camilleri and is excited to watch her have success with Earl in the boxing.

“His biggest strength is on the cow, for sure,” McCormick said. “He’s a great stopper and a great spinner, but on the cow work, if you think it, he does it. You

don’t have to tell him much, and he hates to be in trouble. He really just does a lot of the cow work for you.”

NON prO hacK aMOrE

Toni Hagen Heath/Legend De Lena After a big year that included the 2019 Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Non Pro Championship and Hackamore Classic Non Pro Championship, Toni Hagen Heath accomplished her goal of showing Legend De Lena (Smart Peppy Doc x My Legend Del Cielo x Gallo Del Cielo) to the best of his ability. While she didn’t better her 2018 Reserve World Championship, winning the 2019 Non Pro Hackamore National Champion title with 119 points made up for it.

“It was a nice surprise that I had enough points and still did well enough at the World Show to keep me in there,” Heath said.

She credited “Charlie” for being a happy horse with a positive attitude, describing his size, athleticism and movement that makes him a strong contender in the cow horse.

Sunni Mccormick and Just call Me Earl

Jake Gorrell and plain catty

“Every day’s a great day for Charlie,” Heath said. “He wants to work every day. He’s just been super easy to show. Go in the show pen, and he’s going to give it his best.”

Heath, a rancher in Northeastern Oregon who raises hay, registered Black Angus cattle and her own horses, said Charlie is now for sale, and she’d like to see someone else go on with him in the two rein. In the meantime, she plans to start roping on him and hopes to watch the gelding eventually compete at the World’s Greatest Horseman.

“That’s part of our program, is trying to breed and raise good reined cow horses and hopefully get them in the right hands to go on for somebody else,” Heath said.

OpEN TWO rEiN

Shiney Outlaw/Jay McLaughlin and Sarah Dawson

With money won in multiple Western disciplines, Shiney Outlaw (Shiners Nickle x Mereyda x Dual Rey) has proven he’s not only versatile, but also a talented horse.

The stallion added another title to his name after carrying two Open riders— Jay McLaughlin and Sarah Dawson—to 282 points throughout 2019, landing the Open Two Rein National Championship.

While in Fort Worth for the 2020 Celebration of Champions, “Outlaw” also added the 2019 Open Bridle World title to his resume, with McLaughlin riding him to a 444.5 total on two (R:221.5/C:223).

Among other honors, he is the 2017 Open Hackamore National Champion and a 2018 National Reining Breeders Classic (NRBC) Level 1 Open Co-Champion.

“I hope he is really the future of the NRCHA,” said owner/breeder Michelle Cannon. “As versatile as we think the foals are going to be, we do have him subscribed to everything, as far as being nominated as a stallion in the NRCHA but also in the NRHA [National Reining Horse Association], NRBC and NCHA [National Cutting Horse Association]. I think he’s such an all-around horse that he’ll be able to sire horses in all those events.”

McLaughlin has been showing Outlaw

in cutting events, too, and believes the horse has a lot of potential for that show pen. He hopes to compete with him in the World’s Greatest Horseman next year.

“He’s got a lot of longevity in him, I think,” McLaughlin said. “He’s going to be one of those kinds of horses that’s around for a little while.”

NON prO T WO rEiN

Wendi Lund/Tulare Dawn

Once upon a time, Wendi Lund just wanted Tulare Dawn (Tulare x Yeller Jeans x Yellow Roan Of Texas) to be able to lay down a run that looked “sort of like a reining pattern.” The mare was so tuned in to cows, she was known to spiral in her turnarounds by the cow end of the arena, watching for the cow to come in. Between February and May 2019, though, the mare figured the rein work out and carried Lund to win the 2019 Non Pro Two Rein National Champion title with 130 points.

Tiny in stature at about 14 hands and 850-900 pounds, Tulare Dawn is all heart, according to Lund. Called “Tulip,” or

Toni hagen heath and legend De lena

Jay Mclaughlin and Shiney Outlaw

“Hot Lips” because of how busy she is with her mouth in the show pen, she has taken hits from cows and gotten back up unfazed.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re first or dead last — you come out of the pen just loving on her because she just leaves her soul out there,” Lund said. “It’s just such a neat feeling.”

Jeremy Meador trained Tulip and jokes with Lund that the mare will always belong to him. Bred by Oasis Ranch, she was traded to Red Tail Ranch and then wasn’t started until she was 3 years old.

“I think it’s phenomenal that she was started at 3 and had such a successful 5and 6-year-old year, especially in the non pro when she’s really kind of an open caliber horse,” Lund said. “It shows a lot about her heart.”

NON prO liMiTED

Monica Duflock/Oh Cay Meriah It was a hectic year for Monica Duflock, which made her Non Pro Limited National Championship even more special. The mother of three boys—Carter,

15; Colby, 13; and Conrad, 11—said it was a challenge getting her sons’ school and sports schedules to align with competition dates, so the fact that she managed to rack up 271 points over the year to win the title with Oh Cay Meriah (Light N Lena x Meradas Oh Cay x Freckles Merada) was quite the accomplishment.

“It wasn’t until the latter half of the year that I saw the standings, and then I said to myself, well, if I can make it scheduling-wise, I’m going to try and go for it,” Duflock said. “It just goes without saying that I would not be able to compete and do this if it wasn’t for Todd and Pam Crawford. With me at home scheduling, running around, I always have the comfort of knowing that my horses are well taken care of.”

Oh Cay Meriah, or “Meriah”, is an 11-year-old mare that was bred by Billy Martin. The mare has two 2020 babies due this spring, one by WR This Cats Smart and the other by Metallic Rebel. Duflock hopes the mare will pass her sweet temperament and her talent on to the next generation.

“I’d like to continue breeding her,” Duflock said. “In the meanwhile, I’m going to do the box-drive-box classes which the NRHCA just started. Ultimately, the goal is to be going down the fence with Meriah.”

$5,000 NON prO liMiTED

Mike Tracy/One Smokin Taz

Mike Tracy admitted his trainer, Jim Cook, had higher goals than he in 2019, which turned out to be a good thing. Tracy merely hoped to win the North Central regional championship, so when he realized he and One Smokin Taz (Pepto Taz x Smokin Smarty Pants x Smart Mate) were leading the $5,000 Non Pro Limited national rankings going into the 2020 Celebration of Champions, he was floored. He was even more surprised when he won with 213 points.

“I really didn’t even know until the banquet how I came out,” Tracy said. “When they called my name, I about knocked the chair over. I more than exceeded my goals this year!”

Tracy has been riding cow horses for

Wendi lund and Tulare Dawn

Monica Duflock and Oh cay Meriah

HORNS

Introducing the

The Texas Dally horn is roper-friendly and tall enough to go down the fence or cut on. Or choose from our #21, DL or Cutter OD horns.

Front end height

Choose the height of your front end: 8”, 8 1/2” or 9” tall.

NEXT-GEN COWHORSE

Newly designed close-contact skirts combine with a 2 3/4” cantle and a Texas Dally horn for our newest generation of cowhorse saddle.

seat savvy

start with THE FOUNDATION

Our different bar styles give us the ability to fit a wide range of horses.

fender design

Though we have multiple fender designs, we often use the Ft. Worth (pictured), KR or Avila. Make sure you have the correct fender length for optimal leg position.

Choice of seat style—Texas Cutter, DL or California—and seat padding including slick seat or single padded.

B20-079

Cantle height

Choose between a 2 3/4” (pictured), 3”, 3 1/4” or 3 1/2” cantle height.

skirt & cut-up

Our new Weatherford skirt pattern features a large, close-contact cut-up.

six years, taking one year off for medical reasons. The IT professional was originally involved in sorting, but after working a horse with reined cow horse training on some buffalo—and nearly coming off because it turned so hard—he switched gears.

After Tracy earned his way out of the $1,000 Non Pro Limited, he purchased “Rango,” who was bred by James Armstrong. Tracy said the gelding has taken him farther than he ever imagined.

“I’m actually eligible for retirement [from my job], have been for a couple years, but I can’t afford to show and retire both,” Tracy said. “I’ve had a lot of other hobbies, but showing cow horses is pretty expensive, so the other hobbies have had to take a backseat until I decide that I’m ready to slow down, which is not going to be anytime soon.”

$1,000 NON prO liMiTED

Bruce Perry/Surelysleapnforsugar

Throughout 2019, Bruce Perry wasn’t focused on the national standings. His goal was to do well in the North Central

region, as he competes through the Colorado Reined Cowhorse Association. He didn’t even know about the national championship until mid-summer.

“My coach, Lavert Avent, asked me if I had looked at the rankings, and I didn’t even realize there was anything like that,” Perry said. “I went and looked and I was up there in the top five or so, so I started thinking about it. It became one of my goals for the end of the year to do well there.”

Even with only a few months to accomplish that goal, Perry ended up winning the $1,000 Non Pro Limited 2019 title with 280 points. He rode Surelysleapnforsugar (Surely A Pepto x Ooh Sugalena x Doc’s Sug), a 12-year-old mare bred by Sunrise Ranch LLC.

The last show season was Perry’s first full year to ride reined cow horses. He did versatility events with Avent before, but after the trainer helped him find “J-Lo,” he made the switch.

“She’s just been something else, way different than what I’m used to,” Perry said of the mare. “She’s been a lot of fun.

I’ve learned a lot with having a horse like her and then having a good coach to teach me how to ride her.”

In 2020, Perry, a geologist for Newmont Mining, intends to put the skills he learned throughout last year to use. His goal is to go out, have a good time and do his best.

YOUTh liMiTED

Alex Rose/Cruze Mode

For 14 years, Alex Rose has been hunting the Youth Limited National Championship. In his final year of eligibility as a youth, Rose was finally successful. He rode Cruze Mode (Wimpys Little Step x Smart Lassie Chick x Smart Chic Olena) to 184 points to win the 2019 National Champion title.

“We finally did it, and there were definitely tears shed and some hearts filled with joy,” said Rose, 19. “It just meant the world to me and my family.”

Rose tipped his hat to his closest competitors, saying it was a close race going into the NRCHA Celebration of Champions. There a 430.5 total on two

Mike Tracy and One Smokin Taz

Bruce perr y and Surelysleapnforsugar

BET HESA CAT

QUAHADI

QUAHADI

World’s Greatest Horseman Open – 6th

Owned by Burnett Ranches, LLC • Shown by Boyd Rice

BET HESA BOON

World Hackamore Open – 3/4th

Owned by Beverly Servi • Shown by Clayton M. Edsall

BET HES BLACK

World Hackamore Open – 3/4th

Owned by C Ranches Inc. • Shown by Zane P. Davis

PLAIN CATTY

World Hackamore Open – 6th

Owned by Kalpowar Quarter Horses • Shown by Jake Gorrell

HESA ROYALENA

World Bridle Limited Open – 5th

Owned by Milhoan Family Partners • Shown by Jerry Jones

MARTINIS BET 15

Derby Novice Horse Open Finalist

Owned by Jay Goza • Shown by Matt J. Koch

JJ CAT O LENA

World Two Rein Non-Pro Finalist

Owned and Shown by Allyson Dee Tapie

Collegiate Invitational Novice Champion

Owned by Allyson Dee Tapie • Shown by Shadee Tye

BETCHA LIKE THAT

World Hackamore Non-Pro – 3/4

Owned by Tom McBeath • Shown by Katy L. Thomison

MY BETS IN

World $5000 Non-Pro Limited – 6/7th

Owned and Shown by Caroline G. Whyler

RED KAT

World Limited Non-Pro Finalist

World Select Limited Non-Pro – 3rd

Owned and Shown by Orlando R. Gonzalez

BET HEZA PLAYBOY

Derby Limited Non-Pro – 7th

Owned and Shown by Elizabeth Poor

BET HESA CAT

Fee: $3,500 + Chute Fee

Transported Cooled & Frozen Semen Available Owned by Bet Hesa Cat Syndicate

SINFULLY SMART CAT

World Two-Rein Open Champion

Owned by Karen B. Olson • Shown by Wade J. Reaney

SHINE SMARTER

TOO SHINEY

(Peptoboonsmal - Meradas Little Sue, by Freckles Merada) LTE: $262,009

SHES TOO SHINEY

World Bridle Open – 4th

Owned by Trevor & Tiffiny Bond • Shown by Jay Mclaughlin

World Two-Rein Non-Pro – 8th

Owned by Trevor & Tiffiny Bond • Shown by Austin Bond

RPL BOON

Derby Intermediate Open Finalist

Owned and Shown by Jordan Williams

SUENS LITTLE CAT

World Bridle Intermediate Non-Pro – 4th

World Bridle Novice Non-Pro – 3rd

BOON TOO SUEN

Fee: $3,000 + Chute Fee

Transported Cooled & Frozen Semen Available Owned by Creek Plantation

World’s Greatest Horseman Open – 9th

Preliminary Fence Work Open Champion

Preliminary Rein Work Open Reserve Champion

Owned by Linda Mars • Shown by Chris Dawson

SJR SMART DANCER (P)

World Two-Rein Open Reserve Champion

Owned and Shown by Rebecca Sternadel

SMOKIN SMART CAT

World Two-Rein Open – 7th

Owned by David & Barbara Archer • Shown by Lyn Anderson

OPUS CAT OLENA

World Hackamore Open – 8th

Owned by Boxo Quarter Horses • Shown by Matt Koch

GRACEFUL SMART CAT

Derby Open – 7th

Owned by Wagonhound/Stevenson • Shown by Justin T. Wright

THE NO PANTS PARTY

Derby Open Finalist

Owned by Paul Gober • Shown by Todd Crawford

PRF PEPTOS SMART CAT

Derby Intermediate Open – 4th

Owned by Tori G. Simons • Shown by Jared Jones

WR THIS CAT WILL CUT

Derby Limited Open – 3rd

Owned by Lesley L. Marshall • Shown by Taylor C. Gillespie

THIS CATS SINFUL

World Bridle Limited Open – 9th

Owned by Matt J. Koch • Shown by Brianna A. Koch

SMART LOOKIN NURSE

World Bridle Non-Pro – 3rd

Owned by Bart & Terri Holowath • Shown by Bart F. Holowath

SMART AND DRIVEN

World Two-Rein Non-Pro – 7th

Owned and Shown by Kristy Kay Miller

LOST CREEK HEAVEN

World Hackamore Non-Pro – 9th

Owned and Shown by Myles Brown

Owned by Laney Fjelstad • Shown by Addison Fjelstad

ADDITIONAL FINALISTS: Cat Can Dew Clever Kat

Wheeling Kinda Kitty

WR THIS CATS SMART

Fee: $3,500 + Chute Fee

Transported Cooled & Frozen Semen Available Owned by Wagonhound Land & Livestock

(High Brow Cat - The Smart Look, by Smart Little Lena)

(High Brow Cat - Bet Yer Blue Boons, by Freckles Playboy)

(R:214/C:216.5) elevated Rose and Cruze Mode to the World Championship and gave them the boost they needed for the national title.

Rose grew up reining and sorting with his family. After he learned about reined cow horse, his mom got him started with an old reining horse, and Rose was quickly hooked. As he progressed, Rose knew he would need more horse to go down the fence and found “Cruze” a year ago through Robert Chown.

“I went and looked at him, and he was just absolutely beautiful. I told my mom it was a love at first sight kind of thing,” Rose said. “I’m very blessed to have this horse and have the family I do that puts up with my cow horse addiction.”

Rose thanked his trainers, Lee and Ashley Deacon, their help; and his family, including his mom, Kim Jividen; stepdad, Ed Galbraith; grandmother, Jane Jividen; and his brother, Dustin Deckard.

RULING THE WORLD

The 2019 Nrcha World champions were crowned during the 2020 celebration of champions.

Aworld championship title is the culmination of one show season, but typically takes years of hard work to accomplish. For 10 days in February, hundreds of National Reined Cow Horse Association members from across the country and from Canada vied for their shot in the small field that made up a world championship event final.

Photos by Primo Morales

Shiney Outlaw (Shiners Nickle x Mereyda x Dual rey), ridden by Jay Mclaughlin for owner Michelle cannon of cannon Quarter horses, produced the winning composite of 444.5 (r:221.5/c:223), six-and-a-half points higher than reserve and worth $9,350. Shiney Outlaw had amassed Nrcha earnings in excess of $109,826 before the celebration of champions, and the horse also finished as the 2019 reser ve National champion in the event.

When the dust settled in John Justin Arena, all of the hard work put in during the 2019 show year brought one horse and rider team a new title at the 2020 Celebration of Champions. Fifteen different Open, Non Pro and Youth world champions went home with a slew of prizes, and capped off a successful year. Here are your 2019 NRCHA World Champion and Reserve World Champion horse and rider pairs.

*a full prize list is located on page 92.

Nee On lights (cD lights x Shine Smartly x Shining Spark) and Shawn hays rode to the reserve title, earning $7,480 for owners Yellow creek ranch. in the finals, the 438 composite (r: 215/c:223) surpassed the other eight riders by a point.

OpEN BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

OpEN BriDlE chaMpiON

liMiTED OpEN BriDlE chaMpiON

You cD Signs (high Sign Nugget x Big cD lights x play Mia cD), ridden by cody crow for ardith allcorn, earned top honors in the limited Open Bridle with a 433 (r:213.5/c:219.5), nine points higher than the next team. The team earned $3,940 plus a plethora of awards from Nrcha’s sponsors.

NON prO BriDlE chaMpiON

Wendi lund and her 2006 gelding, Smooth as Tamulena (Smooth as a cat x Miss Tamulena Thermo x Tamulena), earned the Non pro Bridle title with a 210 in the reined work and rock-solid 221.5 on the cow for a 431.5 composite worth $5,299.

liMiTED OpEN BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

cash Master T (cat T Masterson x Nu cash Box x Shining Spark), ridden by andrew Steiger for owners Scott and Darnell Trueblood, took the reserve title with a 424 composite (r:212.5/c:211.5), earning $3,152.

NON prO BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gianna hansen rode peptos J lo (peptoboonsmal x Shiney Senorita x Shining Spark) to a 428.5 (r:216/c:212.5) to take reserve. She earned $4,147.20 for the ride.

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO BriDlE chaMpiON NOVicE NON prO BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Katherine G. Dehaan, DVM, rode Shiners lil Nickle (Shiners Nickle x lil lena long legs x Smart little lena) to the intermediate Non pro Bridle title with a 432 composite (r:214.5 /c:217.5) to earn $3,438. in the Novice Non pro Bridle, Dehaan rode the stallion to a 433 (r:214.5/c:215.5) and earned another $2,664. Dehaan’s 2011 buckskin boasted Nrcha earnings prior to the Nrcha celebration of champions of $79,361. The pair also garnered two National champion titles in 2019 as well as a regional champion award.

NOVicE NON prO BriDlE chaMpiON

Neil Taylor rode hickorys prize Doll (Smokums prize x hickorys poco Doll x Docs hickory) to a 433 composite (r:215.5 /c:217.5) to earn $3,330.

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Sareece Brown rode Wright On hickory (hes Wright On x hickorys Miracle x Doc’s hickory), owned by her Yellow creek ranch, to the reserve title with a 429 (r: 213.5/c:215.5). She earned $2,750 for the class.

OpEN hacK aMOrE chaMpiON

MoonshineandTwoadvil (Metallic cat x little Short Stuff x Shorty lena), ridden by Shawn hays for owner angela Massey, scored a massive 228 in the cow work to capture the Open hackamore World championship with their cumulative 443.5 (r:215.5), three-and-a-half points higher than reserve. The win was worth $9,000.

OpEN hacK aMOrE rESErVE chaMpiON peptos last Bet (peptoboonsmal x Bet On Merada x Bet On Me) and pilot Erin Taormino took the reserve champion title in the Open hackamore with a 440 (r:218/c:222). all in cowhorses own the horse and earned a check for $7,200.

liMiTED OpEN hacKaMOrE rESErVE chaMpiON

BehindchicNWire (Travelin Jonez x Montanas Enterpriz x Mister Montana Nic) and liam alexander Macneill rode to a 431 (r:213/c:218) to earn $3,190 and the reserve world title.

liMiTED OpEN hacKaMOrE chaMpiON

Jesus “chuy” roman piloted half past Boon (half Time report x Boonalicious x peptoboonsmal) to the championship for rocking J ranch. The pair scored a 436.5 (r:214.5 /c:222) to earn $4,060, plus prizes from Nrcha sponsors.

NON prO hacK aMOrE chaMpiON

hope Miller and her mare Sparking Metallic (Metallic cat x Sparking Train x Shining Spark) produced a score of 438.5 (r:220.5/c:218), which was worth $4,020 and the win. The pair’s score topped the reserve champion by 10.5 points.

NON prO hacK aMOrE rESErVE chaMpiON

Kathryn rippetoe and reys redbud (reys Dual Badger x Genuine redbud x Genuine Doc) rode to a 428 (r:211/c:217) to take reserve and a check for $3,216.

OpEN TWO rEiN rESErVE chaMpiON

SJr Smart Dancer and owner-rider rebecca Sternadel earned reserve with a 435.5 (r:214/c:221.5). She took home $5,065.50.

OpEN TWO rEiN chaMpiON

Sinfully Smart cat (Wr This cats Smart x Sinful Style x Docs Stylish Oak) and Wade reaney produced a world championship for owner Karen Olson. Sinfully Smart cat and reaney put up a 440 (r:214 /c:226) to earn $6,447 with a score four-and-a-half points higher than reserve.

NON prO T WO rEiN chaMpiON

colorado’s lannie-Jo lisac riding lookslikeluckToMe (Smart Boons x Dual lookin pep x Dual pep ) earned the win with a 435 (r:219 /c:216).  lisac earned $3,255 and prizes. The horse is owned by Timothy and Katherine Miller, her grandparents.

NON prO T WO rEiN rESErVE chaMpiON reser ve world champion was Wendi lund, of Kuna, idaho, riding Tulare Dawn (Tulare x Yeller Jeans x Yellow roan Of Texas). lund earned $2,604 for her 433 score (r:211/c:222).

NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

lori Frampton-crafton and DVa Smart Dually (Smart Mate x itty Bitty Dually x Dual pep) rode to a 428 (r: 212/c: 216) to earn the reserve title. her mom, Debbie crafton, owns the horse and earned $3,296.

NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

Barbara cox rode Shiners Darby (Shining Spark x Tari Darlin x Taris catalyst) to a 428 (r:211/c:217) and took the world title home to Mineral Wells, Texas, along with $4,120 to her husband, owner chris cox.

$5K NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

Jeffrey heyer rode paddysStarlightchic to a 430.5 (r:211.5 /c:219). The 2010 mare is by Self Shine and out of rN Starlights chic by Smart chic Olena. heyer was awarded $3,350, plus a host of great awards for the four-point win over the reserve horse and rider team.

$5K NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

chelsea Edsall rode Skeets Oak peppy (Skeets peppy x Oak ill Be x ill Be Smart), owned by clayton Edsall to a 426.5 (r:205.5/c:221.5) to earn the reserve title and $2,680. The pair had the highest cow work score of the class.

$1K NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

Jenna E. Wood and her horse, peppy Oak Montana (pepto Stylish Fox x lil Montana peppy x Jazzy peppy Olena), earned reserve with a score of 426 (r:211.5/c:214.5), only a half-point behind the champion. The ride garnered $1,488.

$1K NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

Kelly Warner and Metallic pearl (Metallic cat x precious lil pearl x Travalena) earned the $1K Non pro limited world championship by a 426.5 composite (r:210.5/c:216). Warner earned $1,860 plus first-class awards courtesy of Nrcha sponsors.

YOUTh

BriDlE chaMpiON

Emily Kent rode callme Mister Mister (Mister Dual pep x Travelin With Sass x Travalena), owned by leslie Kent, to the championship. She marked a 216 in the reined work and 222 on the cow for a 438 composite worth $625 and a $2,000 scholarship.

YOUTh BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

cutter Mclaughlin and DT Whiskey Shine (paddys irish Whiskey x Smart Shinealo x Shining Spark) took reserve with a 436 (r:217.5/c:218.5). parents Jay and Wendy Mclaughlin own the gelding; they earned $500 for the title and a $1,000 scholarship.

YOUTh liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

riding Jody Faris’s Wranglers last attak (Starlights Wrangler x Smart attack x Smart little lena), Breanne Faris scored a 430.5 (r:217.5/c:213) for reserve and a check worth $664 and a $750 scholarship.

YOUTh liMiTED chaMpiON

alex rose, riding Kim Jividen-rose’s cruz Mode (Wimpys little Step x Smart lassie chick x Smart chic Olena), went to the top of a talented field of riders with a 430.5 (r:214 /c:216.5). rose earned $830, plus a number of prizes from sponsors and a $1,250 scholarship.

NRCHA Celebration of Champions Awards

2019 World Championships

OpEN BriDlE chaMpiON

Don Rich Custom Saddle

Sponsored by San Juan Ranch

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN BriDlE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN BriDlE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN BriDlE chaMpiON

Tad Sanders Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Tad Sanders presented by Todd

Bergen Performance Horses

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by Silver Spurs Equine

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Hat 6 Ranch /

Walter & Jocelyn Greeman

CowTrac System

Sponsored by CowTrac

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN BriDlE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN BriDlE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO BriDlE chaMpiON

Don Rich Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Hat 6 Ranch /

Walter & Jocelyn Greeman

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Rent A Stall Mat

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage /

Robertson Ranches

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO BriDlE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO BriDlE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO BriDlE chaMpiON

Don Rich Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Reined Cow Horse Training Online

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Trey and Sandra Neal

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

HealthCommemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO BriDlE

rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO BriDlE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

NRCHA Tote Bag

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO BriDlE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NOVicE NON prO BriDlE chaMpiON

Don Rich Custom Saddle

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Trey and Sandra Neal

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NOVicE NON prO BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NOVicE NON prO BriDlE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NOVicE NON prO BriDlE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN hacKaMOrE chaMpiON

Don Rich Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Don Bell Properties

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Rent A Stall Mat

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN hacKaMOrE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN hacKaMOrE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN hacKaMOrE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN hacKaMOrE chaMpiON

Don Rich Custom Saddle

Sponsored by NRCHA

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Trey and Sandra Neal

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Hes Wright On / Fults Ranch

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN hacKaMOrE rESErVE

chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN hacKaMOrE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

liMiTED OpEN hacKaMOrE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO hacKaMOrE chaMpiON

Saddle House Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Saddle House

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Rent A Stall Mat

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Aaron Ranch

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO hacKaMOrE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO hacKaMOrE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

NRCHA Tote Bag

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO hacKaMOrE 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN TWO rEiN chaMpiON

Saddle House Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Saddle House

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Mike & Kelly Warner / The Final Cut Ranch

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Cannon Quarter Horses

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN TWO rEiN rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN TWO rEiN 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

OpEN TWO rEiN 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO T WO rEiN chaMpiON

Bob’s Custom Saddle

Presented by Carol Rose Quarter Horses

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Trey and Sandra Neal

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Cannon Quarter Horses

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO T WO rEiN rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO T WO rEiN 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO T WO rEiN 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

DC Cow Horse Gear Custom Saddle

Sponsored by DC Cow Horse Gear

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Mike and Kelly Warner /

The Final Cut Ranch

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Aaron Ranch

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

NRCHA Tote Bag

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO liMiTED 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

NON prO liMiTED 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$5,000 NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

Saddle House Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Saddle House

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Hes Wright On / Fults Ranch

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Aaron Ranch

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$5,000 NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$5,000 NON prO liMiTED 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

NRCHA Tote Bag

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$5,000 NON prO liMiTED 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$1,000 NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

DC Cow Horse Gear Custom Saddle

Sponsored by DC Cow Horse Gear

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by Aaron Ranch

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$1,000 NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$1,000 NON prO liMiTED 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

NRCHA Tote Bag

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

$1,000 NON prO liMiTED 4Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh BriDlE chaMpiON

Saddle House Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Saddle House and presented

Aaron Ranch

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

$2,000 NRCHA Youth Scholarship

Sponsored by NRCHA

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Horsepower Boots

Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes

Custom Spurs

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

Custom Duffle Bag

Sponsored by National High School

Rodeo Association

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh BriDlE rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

$1,000 NRCHA Youth Scholarship

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh BriDlE 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Show Time Grooming Kit with Tote

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh BriDlE 4Th-5Th placE

Show Time Grooming Kit with Tote

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh BriDlE 6Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh liMiTED chaMpiON

Jeff Smith Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Jeff Smith Saddles and presented by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

$1,250 NRCHA Youth Scholarship

Sponsored by NRCHA

Horsepower Boots

Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Custom Spurs

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

Custom Duffle Bag

Sponsored by National High School

Rodeo Association

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station

2 Sets of Polo Wraps

Sponsored by Back On Track

Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can

Sponsored by Classic Equine

$750 NRCHA Youth Scholarship

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh liMiTED 3rD placE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Show Time Grooming Kit with Tote

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Classic Equine Saddle Cell Phone Holder

Sponsored by NRCHA

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh liMiTED 4Th-5Th placE

Show Time Grooming Kit with Tote

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage/Robertson Ranches

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

YOUTh liMiTED 6Th-10Th placE

Commemorative World Finals Jacket

Sponsored by CR RanchWear

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN BriDlE 1ST placE

Multi Dose Vial of Legend

Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital

Stomach Scope Certificate

Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN BriDlE 2ND placE

NRCHA Tote Bag

Sponsored by NRCHA

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN hacKaMOrE 1ST placE

Multi Dose Vial of Adequan

Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital

Saltwater Spa Certificate

Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN hacKaMOrE 2ND placE

NRCHA Tote Bag

Sponsored by NRCHA

NRCHA Celebration of Champions Awards

SElEcT NON prO BriDlE 1ST placE

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

$150 Farnam Gift Certificate

Sponsored by Farnam

SElEcT NON prO BriDlE 2ND placE

Barnwood Picture Frame

Sponsored by NRCHA

SElEcT NON prO BriDlE 3rD placE

Classic Equine Saddle Cell Phone Holder

Sponsored by NRCHA

SElEcT NON prO liMiTED 1ST placE

Western Legacy Company Cowboy Hat

Sponsored by Western Legacy Company

$150 Farnam Gift Certificate

Sponsored by Farnam

SElEcT NON prO liMiTED 2ND placE

Barnwood Picture Frame

Sponsored by NRCHA

SElEcT NON prO liMiTED 3rD placE

Classic Equine Saddle Cell Phone Holder

Sponsored by NRCHA

YOUTh BriDlE 13 & UNDEr 1ST placE

Headstall

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

YOUTh BriDlE 13 & UNDEr 2ND-5Th placE

Garment Bag

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage / Robertson Ranches

YOUTh liMiTED 13 & UNDEr 1ST placE

Headstall

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

YOUTh liMiTED 13 & UNDEr 2ND-5Th placE

Garment Bag

Sponsored by One Fine Vintage / Robertson Ranches

2020 High School Rodeo Invitational

hiGh SchOOl rODEO iNViTaTiONal chaMpiON

Bob’s Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Bob’s Custom Saddles and Gardiner Quarter Horses

hiGh SchOOl rODEO iNViTaTiONal rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by National High School Rodeo Association

2020 Collegiate Challenge

NON prO chaMpiON

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

liMiTED NON prO chaMpiON

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

liMiTED NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

NOVicE NON prO chaMpiON

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

NOVicE NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Buckle

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

chaMpiON TEaM

NRCHA Show Tote Bags

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

rESErVE chaMpiON TEaM

Classic Equine Rope Halter

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

2020 World’s Greatest

Youth Horseman

PRESENTED BY MARS EQUESTRIAN™

chaMpiON

Bob’s Custom Saddle

Sponsored by MARS Equestrian

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by National High School

Rodeo Association

50X Custom Hat

Sponsored by Shorty’s Caboy Hattery

Ultra Cruz Equine Advanced Joint Care

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by National High School

Rodeo Association

3rD placE

Custom Piece by Lundy’s Leather

Sponsored by Lundy’s Leather

riDErS

Carroll Leather Jackets

Sponsored by MARS Equestrian

Commemorative Number

Sponsored by National High School

Rodeo Association

Backpack

Sponsored by Classic Equine

laDiES parTicipaNTS

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Earrings

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

2020 DT Horses/Hashtags’

World’s Greatest Horseman

chaMpiON

Custom Silver and Diamond Ring

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

Martin Saddlery Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Martin Saddlery and presented by

DT Horses and Hashtags

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags

Nile Crocodile Boots

Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Equine Advanced Joint Care

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Monogrammed Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

rESErVE chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags

Nile Crocodile Boots

Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Monogrammed Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

3rD placE

$300 Farnam Gift Certificate

Sponsored by Farnam

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Equine Advanced Joint Care

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Monogrammed Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

4Th-10Th placE

Monogrammed Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Equine Advanced Joint Care

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

hiGh ScOrE prEliMiNarY hErD WOrK

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags

hiGh ScOrE prEliMiNarY rEiN WOrK

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags

hiGh ScOrE prEliMiNarY STEEr STOppiNG

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags

hiGh ScOrE prEliMiNarY cOW WOrK

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags

all laDiES

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Ring

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

all riDErS

Classic Fit Front Boots

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Carroll Leather Jackets

Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses

Commemorative Back Number

Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses

all OWNErS

Carroll Leather Jackets

Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses

Commemorative Back Number

Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses

2020 Tres Osos

Cow Horse Derby

OpEN chaMpiON

Jeff Smith Custom Saddle

Sponsored by Jeff Smith Saddles and presented by Tres Osos Performance Horses

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Branding Iron Boutique / Morgan Russell

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

OpEN 3rD–5ThplacE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

OpEN TOp placiNG laDY

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Ring

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Branding Iron Boutique / Morgan Russell

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

liMiTED OpEN chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Branding Iron Boutique / Morgan Russell

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

liMiTED OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

liMiTED OpEN 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

lEVEl 1 liMiTED OpEN chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Branding Iron Boutique / Morgan Russell

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

lEVEl 1 liMiTED OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NRCHA Celebration of Champions Awards

lEVEl 1 liMiTED OpEN 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

lEVEl 1 liMiTED OpEN TOp placiNG laDY

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Ring

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

$5,000 NOVicE hOrSE chaMpiON

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

$5,000 NOVicE hOrSE rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

$5,000 NOVicE hOrSE 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NON prO chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NON prO 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NON prO – TOp placiNG laDY

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Ring

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

Nrcha & EVENT SpONSOrS

NOVicE NON prO chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NOVicE NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NOVicE NON prO 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

aMaTEUr chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

aMaTEUr rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Earrings

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

aMaTEUr 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

aMaTEUr TOp placiNG laDY

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Earrings

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Hat 6 Ranch /

Walter & Jocelyn Greeman

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

UltraCruz® Prize Pack

Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Earrings

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NON prO liMiTED prO 3rD–5Th placE

Monogrammed Jacket

Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses

NON prO liMiTED TOp placiNG laDY

Animal Rockz Horseshoe Earrings

Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry

2019 NRCHA FOUNDATION

Scholarships for NRCHA Affiliate Youth Champions

YOUTH BRIDLE - $500 SCHOLARSHIP

Tyree Swales, Alberta Reined Cow Horse Association

Kaylie Mason, Arizona Reined Cow Horse Association

Chance Leatherman, California Cow Horse Association

Kenzia Krahn, Canadian Coast Reined Cow Horse Association

Maisen Avent, Colorado Reined Cow Horse Association

Ariana Rivera, Gulf Coast Cow Horse Association

Tayler Renouf, Idaho Reined Cow Horse Association

Trystan Cooper, Midwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Landon Luce / Elizabeth Frisbee, Montana Reined Cow Horse Futurity, Inc.

Mason Matko, North Central Reined Cow Horse Association

Amber Riehl, Northeastern Reined Cowhorse Alliance

Landon Luce, Northwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Cutter McLaughlin, Panhandle Reined Cow Horse Association

Tucker Gillespie, South Dakota Reined Cow Horse Association

Emma Holly, South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association

Kaylie Mason, Southern California Reined Cow Horse Association

Zachary Nesbit, Southern Reined Cow Horse Alliance

Cutter McLaughlin, Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Greysen Walsh, The Carolinas Reined Cow Horse Association

YOUTH LIMITED - $250 SCHOLARSHIP

Kate Wedderburn, Alberta Reined Cow Horse Association

Bryce Barkemeyer, Arizona Reined Cow Horse Association

Anya Emmons, Atlantic Reined Cow Horse Association

Mason Beal, California Cow Horse Association

Isabel Gosselin, Canadian Coast Reined Cow Horse Association

Pryce Perry, Central Montana Reined Cow Horse Association

Riley Friesen, Colorado Reined Cow Horse Association

Cecilia Sanchez, Gulf Coast Cow Horse Association

Jayden Janson, Idaho Reined Cow Horse Association

Riley Friesen, Midwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Maycn McCullough, Montana Reined Cow Horse Futurity, Inc.

Taryn Crummett, New York Reined Cow Horse Association

Niamh Sexton, North Central Reined Cow Horse Association

Kassidy Holloway, Northeastern Reined Cowhorse Alliance

Sarah Semrau, Northwest Reined Cow Horse Association

William Akin, Panhandle Reined Cow Horse Association

Laney Fjelstad, South Dakota Reined Cow Horse Association

Lucinda David, South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association

Kaitlyn Holbrook, Southern California Reined Cow Horse Association

Roman Moran, Southern Reined Cow Horse Alliance

Kora Bower, Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Nellie Svensson Persson, Swedish Reined Cow Horse Association

2019 NRCHA National Top 5 Awards

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Linda McMahon / McSpyder Ranch

Sponsored by Cindy Warn / Smart Luck / Cable Creek

Ranch

One Pair Rios of Mercedes Boots

Sponsored by NRCHA and Rios of Mercedes

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

NATIONAL RESERVE CHAMPIONS

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Kathryn Phillips / Bet He Sparks

Sponsored by CB Trucking / Paul & Amy Bailey

Sponsored by Brazos Valley Equine Hospital

Sponsored by Texas Landmark Realtors

CR Morrison Plaque

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

NATIONAL 3RD PLACE

Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

NATIONAL 4TH PLACE

Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

NATIONAL 5TH PLACE

Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

YOUTH BRIDLE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

CR Morrison Trophy

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by Cindy Warn / Smart Luck / Cable Creek Ranch

Horsepower Boots

Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes

Platinum Performance

Sponsored by Platinum Performance

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

YOUTH BRIDLE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL RESERVE CHAMPIONS

Gist Custom Buckle

Sponsored by National High School Rodeo Association

CR Morrison Plaque

Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

YOUTH BRIDLE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL 3RD PLACE

Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

YOUTH BRIDLE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL 4TH PLACE

Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

YOUTH BRIDLE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL 5TH PLACE

Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag

Sponsored by Classic Equine

Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket

Sponsored by Osphos

hott rod and corey cushing won the Tres Osos cow horse Derby Open with a composite score of 668. The 2015 sorrel stallion earned $27,874 for owner lynne Wurzer.

By Abigail Boatwright

Photos by Primo Morales

COMING IN HOTT

hott rod wins his first derby title at the Tres Osos cow horse Derby with corey cushing in the saddle.

2020 NRCHA TRES OSOS DERBY OPEN TOP 10

Fort Worth, Texas – February 13-22, 2020 Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money

1. Hott Rod; Corey Cushing; 15S (Hottish x Sugars Smart Kitty x High Brow Cat); Lynne Wurzer; 668 (H: 225/R: 226/C: 217); $27,874.37.

2. Kreyzy Horse; Kelby Phillips; 15S (Dual Rey x Shes Twice As Smooth x Smooth As A Cat); DT Horses LLC; 666.5 (H: 220/R: 227/C: 219.5); $20,539.

3.-4.Scooter Kat; Justin Wright; 15S (Kit Kat Sugar x Scooters Daisy Dukes x Dual Smart Rey); Eric M. Freitas; 661.5 (H: 225/R: 222.5/C: 214); $15,771.02.

3.-4. Lil Time Reymanising; Chris Dawson; 15G (One Time Pepto x Reymanising x Dual Rey); Holy Cow Performance Horses, Texas; 661.5 (H: 217.5/R: 219/C: 225); $15,771.02.

5. Metallic Babe; Justin Wright; 15S (Metallic Cat x Shes A Stylish Babe x Docs Stylish Oak); Jim and Linda Schrack; 660.5 (H: 220/R: 222/C: 218.5); $11,003.04.

6. Nineteen Ten; Kelby Phillips; 16S (Hickory Holly Time x Lil Miss Shiney Chex x Shining Spark); DT Horses LLC;658 (H: 216 R:223/C: 219); $8,802.43.

7. Graceful Smart Cat; Justin Wright; 16S (WR This Cats Smart x GracieLights x CD Lights); Wagonhound/ Stevenson; 657.5 (H: 220.5/R: 218/C: 219); $7,335.36.

8. CR Dees Be Tuff; Kelby Phillips; 16S (Woody Be Tuff x CR Dees Boon Meow x Peptoboonsmal); DT Horses LLC; 656.5 (H: 218/R: 221/C: 217.5); $5,868.29.

9.-10. SJR Diamond In Style; Jake Gorrell; 15M (CD Diamond x Stylish Little Oak x Playin Stylish); San Juan Ranch; 656 (H: 217/R: 218.5/C: 220.5); $4,401.22.

9.-10. Chex Out Tuff; Luke Jones; 15G (Woody Be Tuff x Chex Out My Hiney x High Brow Cat); Brent W. Ratliff; 656 (H:215.5/R: 216/C: 224.5); $4,401.22.

Corey Cushing knew that with the right preparation, 2015 sorrel stallion Hott Rod (Hottish x Sugars Smart Kitty x High Brow Cat) had a chance at excelling at the 2020 Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby. The event was a natural stepping-stone for the stallion after Cushing spent the last few years solidifying his performance and building his confidence. When the week of competition was done and placings were handed out, the dynamic duo landed at the top of the Open Derby—the horse’s first title, and Cushing’s third Open Derby championship.

Cushing, of Scottsdale, Arizona, won the Derby in 2008 aboard Soula Moolah and in 2019 riding Shining CD Light. The National Reined Cow Horse Association Two Million Dollar Rider has worked with the stallion, bred by Austin Adams and owned by Lynne Wurzer of Tacoma, Washington, since the middle of the horse’s 2-year-old year. His 3-year-old year, Cushing piloted the horse to third at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. While he missed the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby, eligible for 4- and 5-year-old horses, last year, Hott Rod placed fifth at the NRCHA Derby and placed third in working cow horse at the 2019 American Quarter Horse Association World Show.

Cushing’s strategy was to focus on a consistent and predictable preshow routine so he could showcase Hott Rod’s skills in the show pen.

“The biggest thing with him was to make sure he was mentally ready and knew what was coming,” Cushing said. “He can handle anything; he’s got so much power underneath him and so much style and finesse with everything he does. He’s a big, strong horse and he draws your attention. I just wanted to make sure that he was ready to

handle any situation that was coming up. He doesn’t like to be in trouble. A little bit of preparation and mental focus is what he needs.”

Hott Rod was in the third set of herd work, and Cushing credits great herd help as contributing to the stallion’s success. He thanked Spud Sheehan, Shadd Parkinson, Clint Allen and Kelby Phillips for their help. The pair scored a 225, winning the go round and $1,494.24.

“I went in there and I cut all three cows that I wanted to,” Cushing said. “The cows reacted exactly how we thought they would, to show off his abilities with a lot of style and frame. He was spot on. As time has gone on, he’s willing to stay down there and work real low-headed, but now he’s got the power and the substance behind it to back it up. “

In the reining, Cushing said he missed

the first stop slightly, which wasn’t as visible to others, but he felt it could have been better. They scored a 225 to place second and win $1,358.40.

“I got him turned around good—he’s always going to spin, but to be real quick that way, he sometimes gets his feet a little bit tangled up so you have to work on the back of the spin,” Cushing explained. “His second stop was really nice. He had a better turn to the right at the opposite end—I didn’t want to override him and take a chance of messing something up. His last stop, I could have stopped him anywhere and he would have stopped the exact same.”

Hott Rod scored a 217 in the cow work, even after getting a wily cow.

“There isn’t a cow that I’m afraid to work on him,” Cushing said. “He was set up, but there were a couple of little spots

where he would slip or have a little trip here and there.”

When the week of competition was complete, Cushing and Hott Rod’s composite score was 668. They were two-anda-half points higher than Open Reserve Champion Kelby Phillips riding Kreyzy Horse (Dual Rey x Shes Twice As Smooth x Smooth As A Cat) for DT Horses LLC.

“I just wanted to get through all three events in the best way possible, and to finally get a title underneath him,” Cushing said. “He’s been a great horse for a long, long time, but I wanted something more to back it up to prove how great he is. He did really great for me all week long. I was really happy with him.”

This year’s Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby saw an increase in entries by more than 70 horses. The payout increased more than $45,000 to $327,791.

OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON

Kreyzy horse (Dual rey x Shes Twice as Smooth x Smooth as a cat) and Kelby l phillips took the Open reser ve champion title at the Tres Osos cow horse Derby. The 2015 chestnut stallion and phillips, of Scottsdale, arizona, earned a composite 666.5 (h:220/r:227/c:219.5) to earn $20,539. Kreyzy horse was bred by Jeffrey and Jennifer Foland and is owned by DT horses llc of Bend, Oregon.

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN chaMpiON

Duallicious (Dual Spark x Unos charm x Smart little Uno), a 2016 bay mare owned by Becky Smith of Saint Jo, Texas, took the intermediate Open championship with her husband aboard, robert Smith iii of Nocona, Texas. Duallicious earned a composite score of 651.5 (h:207/r:220/c:224.5), and a $8,517.17 cash prize.

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON – TiE hazardouz Material (Metallic cat x Scooters Daisy Dukes x Dual Smart rey) and pilot Erin Taormino tied for the intermediate Open reser ve champion title after scoring a composite 651.5 (h:218/r:220/c:213.5) to win $5,71547. The 2016 red roan stallion is owned by linda Mars.

liMiTED OpEN chaMpiON

Daniel Sanchez guided reyny Day Nickle (Shiners Nickle x Tootsie rey x Dual rey) to win the limited Open champion title with a 650 (h:216/ r:211.5/c:222.5) and $2,811.89. The 2015 sorrel stallion is owned by Donna russo of Gilroy, california.

iNTErMEDiaTE OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON – TiE

One Time reno (One Time pepto x Miss Nica Dual x Mister Dual pep) and chris Krieg of Tulare, california, tied for the intermediate Open reser ve champion title with a composite score of 651.5 (h:214.5/r:219.5/c:217.5) to win $5,715.47. The 2015 red roan stallion is owned by Doreen Dalbey of Kingsburg, california.

liMiTED OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON

hes pistol packin (Smooth as a cat x Shiners lil pistol x Shining Spark) and clint allen of Weatherford, Texas, won the limited Open reser ve champion title and $2,200.60 for owners David and Stacie McDavid of Fort Worth, Texas. The 2014 sorrel gelding scored 641.5 (h:216/r:215.5/c:210).

lEVEl 1 liMiTED OpEN chaMpiON

half past Boon (half Time report x Boonalicious x peptoboonsmal), a 2015 sorrel gelding owned by rocking J ranch, was crowned the limited Open champion with Jesus roman of Temecula, california, in the saddle. The pair scored a 641.5 (h:210/r:219.5/c:212) to win $3,924.

OpEN NOVicE hOrSE chaMpiON

SJr Diamond in Style (cD Diamond x Stylish little Oak x playin Stylish) and rider Jake Gorrell of porter ville, california, won the Open Novice horse champion title with composite score of 656 (h:217/r:218.5/c:220.5). The 2015 palomino mare is bred and owned by San Juan ranch of Weatherford, who took home $3,636.

lEVEl 1 liMiTED OpEN rESErVE chaMpiON

hQ Wilma Gotta Kitty (Meteles cat x Wilma Gotta Gun x Spooks Gotta Gun) and Sarah Murphey of red river, New Mexico, were the level 1 limited Open reser ve champions. The 2016 red roan mare bred and owned by reid hockenson of Nichols, iowa, scored a 637.5 (h:209/r:207.5/c:221) to earn $3,139.20.

OpEN NOVicE hOrSE rESErVE chaMpiON

SlrBlindedByThelight (Blind Sided x Starlit holly x Grays Starlight) and John Swales of Millarville, alberta, canada, were the Open Novice horse reser ve champions with a 655.5 composite (h:218/r:216.5/c:221). They collected $2,908.80 for owner Stump lake ranch & cattle co. of calgary, alberta.

MARTIN PERFORMANCE

COWHORSE

By Abigail Boatwright

Myles Brown and Twice in a Blu Moon were crowned the Tres Osos cow horse Non pro Derby winners. Brown, from Stinnett, Texas, and the 2016 brown mare scored a composite score of 658 to win $4,924.53.

Photos by Primo Morales

Twice in a Blu Moon and Myles Brown notch their first major title taking home the Tres Osos cow horse Derby Non pro championship.

Myles Brown is no stranger to Cowtown, but the Stinnett, Texas, Non Pro finally notched a big win with Twice In A Blu Moon (Once In A Blu Boon x Teletrona x Little Trona). Brown partnered with his dad, Rob A. Brown, on the mare bred by Diamond LK Cutting Horses, and he’s worked with her since she was a 2-year-old. At the 2019 National Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity® the pair finished fourth in the Non Pro Futurity.

The mare is nicknamed “Trona” as a nod to the good horses on her maternal side that carry the name: Teletrona, Little Trona and Trona.

“She’s been a pretty good little show horse for us,” Brown said. “She’s very cowy. She’s got lots of speed and has some grit to her. If you’re good to her, she’s good to you, but she doesn’t put up with a whole lot of jacking around, either.”

Brown described the mare as pretty and well-built, but also gritty and athletic.

“She can really run and when you step her up to a cow, something’s about to happen,” Brown said. “Even if she doesn’t do it exactly right, she’s going to stop and turn with that cow. She is not passive about cattle, and I really appreciate that in a cow horse.”

Brown hoped to win the herd work at this event with her. The horse didn’t

disappoint and their score of 217 put them solidly in first place coming out of the herd, earning $273.59. Their reined work didn’t have quite the same success.

“I didn’t get her shown as good as I wanted to in the reining, but I wanted to be at least in the high teens, and I ended up being a 214.5,” Brown admitted. “I created a bit of my own difficulty there.”

The pair redeemed themselves in the cow work.

“As far as the fence work, she’s pretty good at just going in there and sticking those cattle and staying real tight,” Brown said. “It worked out good. It was pretty fun to mark a 226.5, I don’t care where you are. I was very pleased.”

Brown described the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby as a fun event because it showcases who the best derby–aged horses might be that year. He took home

$4,924.53 for the Non Pro title.

“The Futurity is fun because you get to see everybody’s new horse and you can wonder at how good they’re going to be,” Brown said. “What’s fun about this event is now we get to figure out of all those new horses that have been popping in and out of it, you can see the really good ones, the true ones that are going to be here for a while, that you might get to see in the World’s Greatest and future events. It’s fun!”

The Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby doesn’t have finals, so the rider strategy

2020 NRCHA TRES OSOS DERBY NON PRO TOP 10

Fort Worth, Texas – February 13-22, 2020 Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money

1. Twice In A Blu Moon; Myles Brown; 16M (Once In A Blu Boon x Teletrona x Little Trona); Rob A. Brown; 658 (H:217/ R:214.5/C:226.5) $4,924.53.

2. CR Tuff Guns N Roses; Abbie Phillips; 16G (Woody Be Tuff x Gypsy Rose Rey x Dual Rey); Abbie Phillips; 652.5 (H:215/R:219/C:218.5); $3,939.62.

3. Smokum Every Time; Toni Hagen Heath; 15S; (One Time Pepto x Smokums Dream x Smokums Surprize); Daniel Heath; 651(H:213.5/R:219/C:218.5); $3,200.94.

4. Seven S PrettySmart; Hope Miller; 15M; (Dual Smart Rey x Lena Pretty Playboy x Freckles Playboy); Hope Miller; 649 (H:215.5/R:214/C:219.5); $2,708.49.

5. TimeForLightening; Dillon Cox; 16G; (One Time Pepto x SDP Gretchens Kitty x Hydrive Cat); Circle C Ranch; 642 (H:209/R:213/C:220); $2,216.04.

6. Shiney Lil Belles; Debbie Crafton; 16M; (Shining Lil Nic x Dual Reys Belle x Dual Rey); Debbie Crafton; 638 (H:214/ R:212/C:212); $1,723.59.

7. Meradas Cash Bar; Dakota Cox; 15G; (KTZ Rey Of Cash x Meradas Bar Star x Meradas Money Talks); Circle C Ranch; 637 (H:205/R:212.5/C:219.5); $1,723.59.

8. Ranchin Royalty RAB; Myles Brown; 16G: (One Time Royalty x Shesa Rock Hancock x Hesa Eddie Hancock); Rob A. Brown; 636 (H:209/R:212.5/C:214.5); $1,231.13.

9. Boonafide Royalty; Jayson Fisher; 16S; (One Time Royalty x Boonafide Cowgirl x Peptoboonsmal); Jayson and Teresa Fisher; 635 (H:211/R:215/C:209); $1,231.13.

10. Stylish Reys; Debbie Crafton; 16G; (Mr Playinstylish x Dual Reys Belle x Dual Rey); Debbie Crafton; 633.5 (H:212/ R:206/C:215.5); $984.91.

is more aggressive. According to Brown, it takes a different mindset.

“You have to go get everything,” Brown said. “You can see some big scores because people are going in there and going for it. There are no second chances.”

Abbie Phillips of Scottsdale, Arizona, guided her 2016 sorrel gelding CR Tuff Guns N Roses (Woody Be Tuff x Gypsy Rose Rey x Dual Rey) to the Non Pro Reserve Champion title. The Center Ranch-bred gelding is a 2019 Non Pro Snaffle Bit Futurity Reserve Champion and came out swinging in 2020. Their composite score of 652.5 won the reserve title and $3,939.62.

NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON

abbie phillips and cr Tuff Guns N roses (Woody Be Tuff x Gypsy rose rey x Dual rey) added another title to the gelding’s list of wins by scoring a 652.5 to earn the Non pro reser ve championship and earn $3,939.62.

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON, NOVicE NON prO rESErVE chaMpiON aND aMaTEUr chaMpiON

Dakota cox and his 2015 sorrel gelding Meradas cash Bar (KTZ rey Of cash x Meradas Bar Star x Meradas Money Talks), owned by circle c ranch of pleasant plains, arkansas, made off with multiple titles. The pair scored 637 (h:205/r:212.5/c:219.5). Their efforts earned $1,894.05 in the intermediate Non pro class, $833.38 in the Novice Non pro and $1,863 in the amateur class.

iNTErMEDiaTE NON prO chaMpiON aND NOVicE NON prO chaMpiON

Dillon cox of pleasant plains, arkansas, and TimeForlightening (One Time pepto x SDp Gretchens Kitty x hydrive cat) were crowned both the intermediate Non pro champions and Novice Non pro champions at the Tres Osos cow horse Derby. The 2016 sorrel gelding is owned by circle c ranch of pleasant plains. The pair scored a composite 642 (h:209/r:213/c:220) to earn $2,367.56. Their win in the Novice Non pro netted an additional $1,060.67.

aMaTEUr rESErVE chaMpiON

Nicole Westfall of calhan, colorado, guided Time To honkyTonk (One Time pepto x honkytonk Diva x royal Fletch) to win the amateur reser ve title at the Tres Osos Derby. The pair scored a 627 (h:209/r:208.5/c:209.5) and earned $1,552 for owners and her parents Desiree and Jeff Westfall of D & S performance horses.

NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON

lori Frampton-crafton of Ordway, colorado, and 2014 bay gelding candy rap (rap cat x Tr Dual Gal x Tr Dual rey) were crowned champion, winning $2,620.80. The pair scored a 643 (h:209/r:214/c:220). candy rap was bred by Darell Wollert and is owned by Debbie crafton of Ordway.

NON prO liMiTED rESErVE chaMpiON

cassandra S. Krieg and Get N Wicked (Smart little pepinic x Got Mister x Mister

Dual pep scored a composite score of 638 (h:213/r:210/c:215) to take home

$2,059.20. The 2016 brown mare is owned by Samantha Biller of Tulare, california.

LEVATED EEDUCATION

Taking their cow horse game to the next level enabled Tarleton State University to ride away with the collegiate challenge Team championship for the first time.

By Kate Bradley Byars

The final day of the 2020 Celebration of Champions started off with a bang as collegiate riders from four states and 11 schools vied for their shot at a Collegiate Invitational title. In the end team members from Tarleton State University took the title home to Stephenville, Texas, for their first National Reined Cow Horse Association title. With SDP Buffalo Ranch Stallion Station sponsoring awards, the event was center stage in the John Justin Arena Saturday, February 22.

Three individual riders earned their bragging rights for the rest of the year.

Gracie Paul rode Peptos CD Badger to

the Non Pro win and added points to Clarendon College, in Clarendon, Texas’, total count. However, it was Tarleton State University on top with a total of 48 points from their three riders’ scores.

Coach Bobbie Walton, who started coaching the team four years ago, could not have been happier with her team’s performance.

“They all rode really well. These kids

have been working really hard to get ready for this show,” said Walton. “I have to give credit to Aaron Brookshire. They have been going up to work with him on the cow part and he helped them take that extra step up in the cow work part. The biggest difference I saw him help them with is to take that next level or bump up from only being correct to being more aggressive.”

From clarendon college, Gracie paul collected the Non pro victory in her last year of collegiate competition.

While the TSU stock horse team has been around for about a decade, this is the first time a group has competed in the NRCHA team challenge with Walton in charge. As coach, Walton makes sure her team assists with the NRCHA Banquet during the annual Celebration of Champions to ensure they have industry interaction.

However, riding in the invitational

event took that interaction to a new level this year.

“The point of education is to boost student’s confidence and ambition to get better, so just to get to go watch these higher level [NRCHA} riders is so important,” she explained. “Clay Kinnison is our first Non Pro rider, and now that we have a Non Pro rider, we had the chance to go ride, watch and interact. These

students put people up there like heroes, and then they get to meet them so it is like meeting a movie star when they meet some of these big riders.”

Kinnison rode to reserve in the Non Pro, and the team’s Limited rider, Emily Hoffman, finished third. It was Novice rider Shadee Tye that took home a division win—and she had to win a ride-off to do it. Tye and Texas A&M University

Katie Wright rode her way to the Non pro limited win, adding points to the Texas a&M University total.

Shadee Tye made a ride-off, tie-breaking run to win the Novice for Tarleton State University.

rider Sylvia Nelson tied with a 277.5 after the first rein and cow work run.

“Shadee is a gamer, competitive and not afraid,” Walton said. “When they asked if [the tied riders] wanted to flip a coin or ride it off, Shadee is always going to ride!”

With both teams cheering their rider from the back gate, it was Tye topping Nelson by four points to win the Novice title. Walton said all of her team’s riders stepped up, which is on par for how the entire collegiate cow horse competitions go.

“In my time [with Tarleton], the level of competition has gone up considerably,” she said. “The collegiate division has stepped up its game and we see more schools coming in with the National Ranch and Stock Horse Alliance that can build nationwide. With the popularity of stock horse events and NRCHA, there is that opportunity to continue to grow the collegiate part of NRCHA.”

The Non Pro division was a hardfought race to the title. In the end, it was Gracie Paul on top.

Paul wasn’t planning to attend college, but a visit to Clarendon College changed her mind. In fact, the now 21-year-old had never thought to ride a reined cow horse until she began studying in Clarendon, Texas. She took the road less travelled and it led her to the Collegiate Invitational Non Pro Champion title, and in her last visit to Fort Worth as a collegiate rider to boot.

“I grew up riding cutting horses my whole life. My dad, John Paul, is a cutting horse trainer,” she said. “I didn’t know what reined cow horse was or what it entailed until 2015 when I went to college.”

Paul credits coach Gatlin Duncan and her 6-year-old gelding, Peptos CD Badger, with much of her success. She shows in Ranch Horse Association of America events and only last year stepped up to

//////// cOllEGiaTE cO W hOrSE challENGE chaMpiONS

NON prO chaMpiON:

Gracie paul riding peptos cD Badger/ clarendon college

rESErVE chaMpiON: clay Kinnison riding a little cash prize/ Tarleton State University

NON prO liMiTED chaMpiON:

Katie Wright riding Spins lena cal Girl/ Texas a&M University

rESErVE chaMpiON: lauren Waymire riding Kookie Jar/ West Texas a&M University

the Non Pro from Limited.

“Gatlin puts in as much time for us as we are willing to put in and we just gave it our all,” said Paul. “Every time I want to step up my show game or change something to better myself, [Peptos Cd

NOVicE chaMpiON:

Shadee Tye riding JJ cat O lena/ Tarleton State University

rESErVE chaMpiON: Sylvia Nelson riding

Tamu reyette Olena/Texas a&M University

TEaM chaMpiON:

Tarleton State University – 48 points (clay Kinnison, Emily hamilton, Shadee Tye)

TEaM rESErVE chaMpiON: Texas a&M University – 41 points (Emalee hoffman, Katie Wright, Sylvia Nelson)

Badger] moves up with me. I am really excited about the places he can take me. He is one that has stepped up with me from Limited to Non Pro. We worked hard to get ready. I’ve been so blessed by the experience.”

Tarleton State University team members (left to right) Shadee Tye, clay Kinnison and Emily hamilton.

EDEMPTION RIDE R

By Kate Bradley Byars

Gage Gardiner captured the high School rodeo challenge, providing personal redemption after a lackluster final round performance at the NhSFr left him feeling he could do better.

In 2019, Gage Gardiner was ecstatic to have won both rounds of the preliminary cow horse event at the National High School Finals Rodeo.

But in the finals, the Ashland, Kansas, student said things fell apart. Though he finished 10th place, he knew that a better run could be made by he and his horse, Mr Stylish Cat. In Fort Worth, Texas, Gage made just that good run—winning the 2020 National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions High School Rodeo Challenge.

“I did think about the National short go coming in here because it is a place where I can redeem myself from what happened at Nationals and show myself what I can do,” Gage said. “It was a good feeling to come back and win this event. It was redeeming myself. I finished 10th but it was a humbling experience and

one I won’t forget, being at the top and watching it all go down. But, it helped me mature.”

The top 20 riders from the cow horse event held during the NHSFR are invited to the Celebration of Champions to compete in the High School Rodeo Challenge.

MARS Petcare sponsors the NRCHA’s partnership with the National High School Rodeo Association.

From a family of cow horse competitors, Gage grew up attending premier cow horse events across the country, which is why he wanted to try the event

aboard Mr Stylish cat, Gage Gardiner rode to the high School rodeo challenge win, and won the National high School rodeo association jackpot.

Photos by Primo Morales

himself. He competed in cutting and also team roped until the opportunity to show cow horse in the Kansas High School Rodeo Association presented itself.

Today, he juggles Ashland High School sports and staring in school plays and musicals along with riding horses. He credits his father and mother, Garth and Amanda Gardiner, with helping him through it all.

“There is a lot of help from my parents to manage everything and keep it in the air,” he said.

“There are days where all I can do is homework, and other days where you ride all day. My parents always support me to be the best student as well as rider that I can be.”

Gage rides Mr Stylish Cat (Mr Playinstylish x Lil Sally Cat x High Brow Cat), a gelding purchased through his trainer, Shawn Hays.

The horse’s nickname is “Boyd,” after trainer Boyd Rice.

FINAL HIGH SCHOOL RODEO CHALLENGE RESULTS

(Rider/Horse/Owner/Score):

1. Gage Gardiner; Mr Stylish Cat; Garth and Amanda Gardiner; 292.5

2. Trail Townsend; TRR Lucky Brazos; Tripp Townsend; 281.5

3. Sydney Davis; Bobbys Playgun; Sydney Davis; 274

4. Shayla Boyce; Nics Black Boonlight; Shayla Boyce; 272

5. Jake Baca; Meradas Twister Bee; Tye Baca; 271.5

6. Tylor R. Todd; Smart Rem N Be; Jared Barry; 270.5

7. Tatum Olson; Boondocks Jack; Terry Lesiak; 264

8. Regan Wheatley; BoonAndCroket; Sylvia McComber; 261.5

“I’ve never had a horse that I’ve clicked with as much as I have with Boyd,” Gage said. “I owe it all to him. He can get in the right place at the right time. Sometimes he can be a little bit of a goofball, but he is a phenomenal horse. Since my freshman year, Shawn has helped me immensely. He has helped me so much to become a better horseman, and to understand how a cow and horse work. Without him, I really wouldn’t be here.”

With a score of 292.5, Gage topped the second place rider, Trail Townsend and TRR Lucky Brazos (Pepcid x TRR Ms Lucky Gun x Playgun), who earned a 281.5 from the judges. In addition to the saddle sponsored by Bob’s Custom Saddles and Gardiner Quarter Horses, Gage won the High School Rodeo Jackpot, taking home a check for $425.

The National High School Rodeo Association paired with the NRCHA in 2014 to add cow horse to the traditional slate of rodeo events. Ronnie Haslerig, a past NHSRA president, was on-hand with Gary Hawkes, NHSRA digital

media and communications coordinator, to present the reserve champion buckle sponsored by NHSRA and support the young riders.

Since the event paired with NHSRA, Haslerig, who is the cow horse event’s arena director at the Finals, has seen much improvement.

“When the cow horse first started, some [novice] riders had some really bad runs. As we go on each year, there are fewer of those runs—the lower end get better and the top end of the runs are just great,” he explained. “I’ve heard several ropers say that is has helped their horsemanship and that they prefer it over the cutting. It has improved horsemanship; more people are conscious of their leads.”

During the 2020 NHSFR, in Lincoln, Nebraska, the cow horse finals will be front and center at the facility, which will draw even more interest, said Haslerig.

For more information on the high school rodeo program, rules, clinics and more, visit nrcha.com/nhsra-reined-cowhorse/.

Trail Townsend and Trr lucky Brazos placed second in the high School challenge with a 281.5.

cOrpOraTE parTNErS

MARS Equestrian™ Sponsorship by Mars, Incorporated, is the link between our iconic brands and the equestrian community. For generations, Mars has celebrated a rich equestrian heritage, and through purposeful partnerships, MARS Equestrian™ is committed to the sport and building an enduring legacy. From world-class competitions across all equestrian disciplines, to stewarding the power of horses on society and sustainability, MARS Equestrian™ is dedicated to our purpose to improve the lives of horses, pets, and the people who love them.

As the official equine insurance company for the NRCHA, Markel has provided uninterrupted coverage for horses and horse-related risks for over four decades. Sharing your passion for horses and committed to the horse industry, Markel is an experienced company whose associates are horse people first and insurance people second. Their insurance products focus on protecting your horses, home, barn, tack and equipment. Whether you have one horse or an entire stable, board or train horses, Markel can fully protect you. Visit www. horseinsurance.com for more information on Markel’s products.

Platinum Performance is the Official Nutritional Supplement of the NRCHA! Platinum Performance, Inc. is the manufacturer of Platinum Performance Equine Wellness and Performance Formula, a comprehensive supplement rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, bioavailable trace minerals, amino acids and joint protective anti-inflammatory nutrients. This formula is designed to support the immune system, joints, bones, muscles, and provide sustained energy and enhanced performance. It is excellent for performance horses of all ages, broodmares, stallions and foals. Platinum Performance nutritional supplements were originally developed to decrease rehabilitation time after orthopedic surgeries, to speed bone growth and tissue healing, and reduce swelling complications. For more information, visit Platinum Performance at our website at www.PlatinumPerformance. com.

San Juan Ranch, a Division of Santa Cruz Animal Health, is rapidly becoming an industry leader in the distribution and development of Veterinary and Animal Health Care Products. As the official animal health and breeding supplier of the NRCHA, the company offers a wide range of products for the optimal care of performance horses, livestock and companion animals. The Animal Health product line includes a comprehensive, high-quality, affordable line of UltraCruz™Animal Health Supplements for horses, dogs and cats.

PEDIGREE® Food for Dogs. Everything we do is for the love of dogs. As the world’s largest dog food brand, our passion is to make the world a better place for dogs. We champion causes to help dogs find loving homes, and we are dedicated to understanding dogs’ needs to make sure every dog is fed well, because every dog deserves great nutrition. PEDIGREE® products include a wide variety of treats including DENTASTIX®, MARROBONE®, and JUMBONE®. PEDIGREE® brand is proud to be a corporate partner and the Official Pet Food of the National Reined Cow Horse Association. To find out more about PEDIGREE® brand visit www.pedigree.com.

Marty and Dustin Latta wanted to create a brand that creates custom items that are truly a legacy so that the items could be passed down from generation to generation. The Western Legacy Co. creates legacy items such as custom hats, custom boots, custom bags, custom belts and custom sports coats. All of our products are truly custom made with the best quality. We are proud to be a Texas legacy brand that is owned by a father and son duo. Legacies are earned, not bought.

Dennis Moreland of Dennis Moreland Tack started his hand made tack business when he was a young cowboy. He realized there was a need for safe, well made, functional horse tack to be readily available to horsemen & horsewomen. This is Dennis’s 41st anniversary in the handmade tack business! He works closely with professional trainers and horsemen to design and test his equipment for functionality, fit and durability. From bridles to cinches, horse bits to spurs, he works hard to make this the best tack you’ve ever ridden. You can find everything you need for your horse at www.DMTack.com.

Quarter Horse News is one of the most visible information vehicles in the horse world. Quarter Horse News – the News Magazine of the Performance Horse industry - is the only twice-monthly news magazine dedicated to the Western horse industry. For information visit the website at www.quarterhorsenews.com.

The Saddle House is proud to offer the finest collection of quality cow horse saddles and gear. Our Saddle House Custom Saddles are all handcrafted in Texas from the finest materials and ridden by top hands all over the country. We offer an impressive selection of hackamores, romels reins, bits, chaps and leather goods from the top makers. Owner Adam Schwalm is an active cow horse competitor and knows what you need to succeed the show pen or the branding pen. Visit www.thesaddlehouse.com.

Team up with Classic Equine and PLAY TO WIN! Classic Equine is the official horse boot and saddle pad brand of the NRCHA, and there is a reason we are the standard equipment of performance champions. Just ask the professionals. Serious competitors care about their horse’s health and soundness. Classic Equine offers a variety of innovative and protective products including saddle pads, cinches, support boots and bell boots. All products are manufactured to the highest standards for quality and value. After all, the creation of a product line that satisfies the serious competitor’s high expectations of performance is what Classic Equine is all about. With input from many of today’s leading riders, each product is designed and tested for function, fit, durability and value. That is why when it comes to the horse’s protection and comfort for training and competition, champions prefer Classic Equine. For more information visit our website at www.classicequine.com or call 1-800-654-7864.

We at Martin Saddlery are dedicated to giving you the most fit, function and value in a saddle. Martin saddles are built by professionals, for professionals. Our saddles are designed to provide a better fit for your horse and specialized by discipline with the rider’s needs in mind. Each Martin saddle is hand-crafted and individually assembled by the finest of craftsmen. Often imitated, never matched. www.MartinSaddlery.com

Jeff Smith’s Custom Saddles offers you quality and affordable products you can count on. There specialized Cutting, Ranch Cutters, Cow Horse and Cowboy saddles are made with the finest Hermann Oak Leather and American made materials and workmanship by saddle makers with 36 years of custom western tack manufacturing. Go to www. JeffSmithsCustomSaddles.com to shop online, and to follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

DT Horses, “The Elite Brand,” owned and operated by Dean and Leslie Tuftin, is located in beautiful Bend, Oregon. They are proud to be the presenting sponsor of the NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman. Already an established breeding and training program for world champion rope horses, DT Horses has strengthened its reined cow horse industry presence with the addition of NRCHA Champion Hickory Holly Time to its stallion roster in 2016. Under the guidance of DT Horses’ resident trainer, leading NRCHA Professional Kelby Phillips, the DT Horses program seeks out the best genetics in the performance horse industry, to create versatile champions for every arena. Find them on the web at www.DTHorses.com.

The Nutro Company is a leading manufacturer of natural pet food products sold exclusively at pet specialty stores, and the Official Pet Food food of the National Reined Cow Horse Association. The company has been making premium pet food for more than 80 years and is dedicated to quality, excellence and innovation in dog and cat nutrition offering healthful formulas for every pet’s life stage, activity level and size. The Nutro Company’s family of brands includes MAX® dog and cat food, NATURAL CHOICE® dog and cat food, and ULTRA™ food for dogs in addition to the GREENIES® brands, which include the #1 veterinary recommended pet specialty dental chews, and PILL POCKETS® and JOINT CARE® treats. For more information, please visit www.thenutrocompany.com and www.greenies.com.

For animals, health and happiness go hand in hand. Both are a result of the quality of care they get from owners raising them to be their best. And much of that comes from the quality nutrition they’re being fed. Our feed sustains the animals you care for. What’s inside them, literally, counts. That’s why our feed isn’t just grown—it’s crafted. Real science goes into putting the nutrients animals need into each Nutrena® feed product. Because, what’s inside the feed counts. Since 1921, we’ve been making Nutrena horse feeds that are specially developed to provide the right blend of nutrition and energy for your horses at every age and activity level. Whether you’re caring for working horses, hard keepers, or athletes, there’s a Nutrena horse feed that’s right for them. To find the right product that matches your horses’ needs, visit us at www.nutrenaworld.com.

Nutrena is proud to be the Official Equine Feed of AQHA, WPRA, and an AAEP Educational Partner as well as the Official Feed of the NRCHA. “What’s Inside Counts.”

American Paint Horse Association - Marked For Greatness! We inspire, nurture, promote and provide meaningful experiences to generations interested in preserving the versatile Paint Horse. The APHA is proud to be an alliance partner of the National Reined Cow Horse Association. Learn more about the breed and the benefits of membership at www.APHA.com.

The NRCHA is happy to continue our partnership with Shorty’s Caboy Hattery. Shorty’s takes pride in creating custom hats, hand-made with dedication to the true tradition of the Western cowboy. The entire Shorty’s team stands by the value and tradition that defines the spirit of cowboys and cowgirls everywhere. They make cowboy hats the right way: from top-quality materials and loving care in every hat. Find them on the web at shortyshattery.com.

Wear Cinch to Win! It’s the Official Clothing of the NRCHA! Lead...don’t follow and wear the choice of champions - Cinch jeans and shirts. When performance counts, the members of the NRCHA turn to Cinch jeans. Cinch is the brand of choice for some of the world’s best horse trainers like Bob Avila, Teddy Robinson and Todd Bergen. Why? Because Cinch jeans offer the kind of fit and comfort that allow riders to focus on the work at hand. Plus Cinch jeans and shirts always look good. You’ll find Cinch jeans and shirts at your favorite Western store or via catalog. Or, visit www. cinchjeans.com to find the retailer nearest you. “Cinch up” with Cinch jeans and shirts. Wear the choice of champions.

Complete oral care is important for your dog’s total body health and can add years to their lifespan. GREENIES™ Canine Dental Chews are proven to clean dogs’ teeth by fighting both plaque and tartar buildup, freshening breath, and maintaining healthier teeth and gums. Designed for daily treating, our dental chews are low in fat and nutritionally complete for adult dogs.

Don Rich Custom Saddles are specifically designed for use in the Western performance horse industry with an emphasis on reined cow horse, cutting, ranch horse, and reining events. Choose from our beautiful selection of saddles in stock, or place a custom order.

The American Quarter Horse Association, located in Amarillo, Texas, is the world’s largest equine breed registry and membership organization.

AQHA members share a passion for the American Quarter Horse and the vast lifestyle created by the world’s most popular horse. The AQHA is an alliance partner of the National Reined Cow Horse Association. Explore the AQHA’s many resources on the web at www.AQHA.com.

Gist Silversmiths: Crafting a Legend Piece by Piece - Gist Silversmiths is proud of its partnership with the NRCHA as its “Official Silversmith”. For 40 years, Gist has been considered the industry leader in customized trophy and award buckles for champions of all disciplines. Gist Silversmiths believes there is no substitute for the finest in quality, superior craftsmanship and reliable service. Attention to detail is evident in each of their finely sculpted motifs and logos; quality enhanced by unique buckle designs. An award buckle is presented to commemorate a significant achievement and each recipient should be honored with a buckle reflecting the pride of a champion. For more information, visit the Gist Silversmiths website at www.gistsilversmiths.com.

Discount Tire, based in Scottsdale, is the world’s largest independent retailer of tires and wheels. Founded in 1960 by Bruce Halle, they serve customers at more than 1,000 stores in 35 states. The company does business under the trade name Discount Tire in most of the U.S., America’s Tire in parts of California, and Discount Tire Direct in markets outside the reach of retail stores. Discount Tire is a primary sponsor of the No. 2 Ford Mustang driven by Brad Keselowski in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and the No. 22 Ford Mustang driven by Austin Cindric in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Discount Tire is also the official wheel and tire retailer of Monster Energy AMA Supercross. For more information, visit discounttire.com

Bloomer is the “Official Horse Trailer” of the NRCHA. Bloomer Trailers has raised the bar in the horse trailer industry. “If you can dream it, we can build it,” is the company slogan. Bloomer offers the highest quality standards of any trailer manufacturer and backs it up with a 10 year structural warranty. For information, see your local Bloomer Trailer dealer or visit www.bloomertrailers.com.

Rios of Mercedes, the Official Boot of the National Reined Cow Horse Association, is one of the last truly handmade all leather boots produced in the United States. There is no secret to making top quality boots. All you need is the finest leather and true bootmakers with years of experience and the desire to be the best at their craft. Rios has remained true to its roots by making boots for folks who are involved in performance and working horses, raise livestock and in general make their living outdoors. Rios has never cheapened their product by taking shortcuts, lowering standards or chasing fashion trends. We make boots for people who know what a pair of boots is intended for: all day comfort whether horseback or afoot. Visit www.riosofmercedes.com to see some of the styles we offer through our retailers.

Bob’s Custom Saddles are ridden and endorsed by the best of the best in competitive Western riding sports today. Our superior craftsmanship and attention to detail have made our reining, barrel racing, cutting, roping, ranch, trail and show saddles the preferred choice of professional riders from around the world. Saddle up with us on the web at www.BobsCustomSaddles.com.

NEW YORK Reined Cow Horse Association

By Katie Navarra

receiving the award at the banquet in Fort Worth are, from left to right, are NYrcha Vice president lisa Sykes, Vice president holly Shockro, Youth Director Jacob partridge, Green rider Director cindy pfeifer and Show Secretary lauren partridge.

The New York Reined Cow Horse Association celebrated its 10th anniversary with the honor of being named NRCHA Affiliate of the Year.

Exactly 10 years after the New York Reined Cow Horse Association (NYRCHA) earned affiliate status, the National Reined Cow Horse Association recognized the group as their Affiliate of the Year. It’s an honor that didn’t come easily—the group nearly folded at the end of 2014. The charter was struggling to organize shows, and then-board members told the membership “they were done” and others needed to step up if it was going to continue. That’s when now- President Joe Decker volunteered to join the NYRCHA Board of Directors.

A member and competitor since the beginning, Decker hadn’t been active on the board. He and a handful of others didn’t want to lose access to approved shows in the state.

“It was a turning point for us,” he said. “A group of us stepped up and committed to doing whatever we could to save it.”

The club has steadily increased membership to the current 110 in 2019 and nearly doubled the number of people they have gotten to also join NRCHA. During the same time frame, their entry revenue increased from barely breaking even to bringing in $22,000 in entries at their May 2019 show.

“Last year was such a great growth year for us,” Decker said. “Coming off show seasons where if we came out a couple hundred dollars ahead we thought we

were doing great to having such strong entry numbers surprised us all. It stayed strong all season.”

The group’s success boiled down to three important components: a focus on bringing in new riders, the move to a new facility and a dedicated team willing to take care of all the small details that take place behind the scenes.

JOiN iN!

The action of working cow horse sells itself, as all those that have ridden the event know. Many newcomers are hooked after watching an event. However, creat-

ing an atmosphere that supports and encourages newcomers is what keeps them coming back. The NYRCHA board made it a priority to get youth involved, even in a time when associations are finding it difficult to get youth participation. NYRCHA had 12 young riders register for a clinic with Mark Sigler of Kinda Silly Farm in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. The affiliate took advantage of the NRCHA Youth Clinic Sponsorship program, Sigler donated his time, and other members donated hay for the cattle and flag use to keep the event budget-friendly and encourage the young riders to attend. NYRCHA also works closely with the New York State High School Rodeo Association by adding approved classes to the show bill.

“It’s difficult for the high school rodeo to bring in an NRCHA judge for their events so we include classes for them at our shows,” said Non Pro member Lisa Sykes, who is currently serving as NYRCHA vice president.

The focus isn’t just on bringing in young riders, NYRCHA is passionate about bringing green, or novice, riders into the fold. Exhibitor Allison Wilshire from Argyle, New York, tried reined cow horse for the first time in 2019.

“The Green Division was an excellent way for me to learn the rules, with great competition,” she said. “Starting there led me into competing in the $1K and Amateur herd work later in the season.”

Non pro member and NYrcha Vice president lisa Sykes shows in the events she helps put together.

COURTESY OF THE NYRCHA

Every exhibitor goes with the hopes of winning, however, Sykes said that a supportive environment that is fun, is just as important as collecting a check at the end of the day. Every show is packed with activities and opportunities to “win a prize.”

The organization collects numerous product donations. They use a “roll of the dice” system to distribute those products among members. At the end of every class, the dice is rolled and whatever number comes up gets the prize. They also do daily prize drawings and exhibi-

tors receive one chance to win for every class they enter.

Their popular Chuck-A-Duck fundraiser involves everyone, including family members who don’t compete. The youth members sell rubber ducks for $5 each. During Sunday’s show lunch break those who have purchased a duck try to throw it into a hula-hoop. Whoever wins, splits the pot with the youth club.

“We try to make shows interesting,” Sykes explained. “We have awards for highest scoring fence and the highest scoring boxing. We offer [American Quarter Horse Association]-sanctioned ranch horse classes; we have a Stockman Challenge, where riders compete in one bridle, one cattle class and three ranch horse classes. There is also the Extra Mile Award and the Dirty Glove Award that’s a petrified old glove nailed to a barn board with some barbed wire recognizes the people who pitch in to make the shows happen.”

The youth membership is thriving in New York’s association.

NYrcha youth rider holly Shockro.

From left to right, NYrcha lisa Sykes, Wendy Kuhn, Jacob partridge and lauren partridge.

COURTESY OF THE NYRCHA

COURTESY OF THE NYRCHA

FiNDiNG a FaciliTY

Until last year, NYRCHA held their shows at the Cazenovia College Equestrian Center. While centrally located within the state, stalls and RV hook-ups were limited.

“They were incredibly accommodating to have us there, especially in a predominately English barn. The only problem was that we outgrew them,” Decker said. “We’ve always struggled finding facilities that have a big enough arena, good footing and [RV] hook ups. As soon as we mention cattle, a lot of those facilities don’t want us; they don’t want the mess of cattle.”

Decker attributes a portion of the affiliate’s growth to its move to the Fonda Fairgrounds, which is located about one hour west of the state’s capital, is cattlefriendly and has welcomed the group. The amenities and the location attract riders from as far as Canada, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Maine.

“It is geographically positioned to welcome lots of out-of-state riders, increasing our reach and the spread of the sport regionally,” Sykes said. “The Fonda Fairgrounds can accommodate large shows requiring more stalls, which allows more competitors the opportunity to come show; bleacher seating allows spectators more room to watch and cheer and our competitors to learn from each other by watching.”

For $5, even family members who don’t compete can support NYrcha through the popular chuck-a-Duck toss.

Finding fresh cattle can be as challenging as finding a cattle- friendly facility. Sykes said that none of the affiliate’s activities would be possible without Hoss’s Ridge Farm. The cattle provider does his best to bring cattle that aren’t used for team pennings, sortings or ropings.

“Out west they get fresh cattle, that doesn’t happen for us,” Sykes said. “Maybe at the first show the cows are really fresh but by last show or second to last show not so much. Hoss’s Ridge tries really hard to figure it out for us and make it work.”

iT TaKES a TEaM

What started as a small group of horsemen in 2009 looking to bring cow horse to the northeast has blossomed into a growing opportunity for riders from all disciplines. Decker said they’ve had exhibitors switch from team penning, roping, Western pleasure and English events after watching one show.

But, he said it’s impossible for one person to develop the success the NYRCHA has experienced. It takes a team effort

to foster the growth the affiliate has sustained.

“Our board is phenomenal even though it’s a lot of work for us,” Sykes said. “It’s important to stay organized and run it like a business. We have to think about our numbers while treating people right and making sure they have a good time.”

Decker added that the group is supportive of one another’s successes and is sportsmanship oriented. When a rider doesn’t win a class, but their friend does, it’s almost as good as if they had won and there is a huge cheering section encouraging green riders all the way up to open riders.

A positive environment leads to fun and Decker believes that when you’re enjoying the activity, it allows for improvement in the saddle.

“I’m really proud of the level our riders have come up to over the past few years,” Decker said. “Their scores have improved the past few years and we’ve had riders go out to Fort Worth and be competitive. That says something for us here on East Coast.”

PROTECTING JOINTSthe

Joint therapy is an important part of maintaining your equine athletes’ health. Dr. Joe carter shares info you need to know about this helpful medical strategy.

Story and photography by Abigail Boatwright

Any method of movement—from Western pleasure to racing—puts wear and tear on your horse’s joints. Reined cow horse, with its unique combination of three high-octane events, showcases horses at their highest level of athleticism. To keep your horse healthy, sound and happy, joint therapy can be a valuable option.

But, before you make an appointment for your horse, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the techniques and medications that can help your horse. Joe Carter, DVM, the official veterinarian of the National Reined Cow Horse Association, offers his expertise on joint therapy, while also debunking common misconceptions.

DOES MY hOrSE NEED JOiNT ThErapY?

Some common training problems are directly related to joint inflammation, said Dr. Carter.

“Poor stopping, specifically in a reining pattern or cutting herd work—that’s typically a problem with the hocks,” Dr. Carter said. “You’ll see horses that are having trouble with lead changes or falling out of lead in a reining pattern. That’s typically a stifle joint problem. Horses having trouble with backing—that’s sacroiliac, or SI joint problems. Problems with horses spinning are frequently knee problems, typically from banging their knees while spinning and there is resulting inflammation.”

If your horse is having problems in these areas when they previously had no issues, it may be time to schedule an exam with your veterinarian. Even if your performance horse is sound and healthy, for a horse in training or competition, Dr. Carter recommends a lameness wellness exam every three months, especially between the ages of three and six.

A lameness wellness exam consists of a flexion test of all four legs, palpating

the joints for signs of heat, swelling and inflammation and hoof testing the coffin joint for sensitivity.

Outside of your horse’s veterinary exams, Dr. Carter advises handlers to palpate your horse’s joints every morning to develop a baseline for what’s normal, and feel for heat or any changes.

“In a perfect world, you’d get ahead of lameness issues before they create a training issue,” Dr. Carter said. “That’s the value of a wellness exam, and that’s the value of a good, daily observation.”

Not every horse needs joint therapy at the same rate. Personality is one element Dr. Carter takes into account.

“The number one factor is the horse’s mentation—some of these horses just need a lot of riding because they’re a little hot, a little fresh, and they’re going to take 30 or 45 minutes of loping to get them ready to start being trained on,” Dr. Carter said. “Think of it like tires. The more miles, the faster the tread goes. The more miles you have to put on your horse to get them ready to show, the more maintenance that horse is going to need.”

He explained that a horse that is quiet and doesn’t require a lot of preparation tends to need less medical maintenance,

but a horse that takes a lot of time riding, or is restless in his downtime may need more maintenance. Dr. Carter sees this with young stallions more frequently. Conformation is another factor. Dr. Carter describes certain conformation traits that predispose a horse to soreness and a need for more frequent joint maintenance.

“Curby hocks, cow hocks and sickle hocks set your horse up for soreness and early onset arthritis,” Dr. Carter said. “Small feet on the front end versus bigger feet put more pressure, more pounds per square inch on the navicular bone.”

MEDicaTiONS

The most popular joint therapy medication, and the one Dr. Carter prefers for joint maintenance and to reduce minor inflammation, is sodium hyaluronate, brand name HyVisc.

“It’s a healthy building block of the horse’s joint,” Dr. Carter said. “Hyaluronic acid is predominantly a joint fluids supplement.”

Another joint medication is polysulfated glycosaminoglycan, brand name Adequan.

“Adequan is more for cartilage issues,” Dr. Carter said.

One important joint therapy is interleukin receptor antagonist protein, better known as IRAP. To obtain this medication, the horse’s own blood is extracted

if your horse starts showing signs of poor performance in moves such as stopping, lead changes, backing or spins, those issues may be attributed to joint pain.

regular lameness wellness exams can pinpoint potential joint inflammation before it starts affecting your horse’s performance.

| GROOMING | CRITICAL CARE

2018 NRCHA OPEN FUTURITY CHAMPION #1 NRCHA OPEN ALL AGES/ALL DIVISIONS HORSE OF THE YEAR 2018 LTE: $174,997 ••• SHOWN BY COREY CUSHING BRED & OWNED BY SAN JUAN RANCH POWERED BY ULTRACRUZ®

then processed and re-injected into the joint for a natural anti-arthritis therapy. Products such as Pro-Stride are an Autologous Protein Solution (APS), which combines IRAP with platelet-richplasma. This medication contains growth

factors that stimulate the tissue affected to repair and regenerate. Dr. Carter prefers this medication for healing soft tissue injuries and joints.

Another category of joint therapy is corticosteroids. Dr. Carter explained that some steroids have proven to be condroprotective, meaning protective of cartilage cells. Triamcinolone is one of them.

“Steroids like Triamcinolone are exceptionally valuable to the horse in the right dose,” Dr. Carter said. “Some of the more potent steroids can have negative side effects, so they have to be judiciously administered, but they have their place in certain situations.”

WhY iNJEcT ThE JOiNT?

There are several ways you can administer medication for joint therapy, with varying merits and disadvantages.

Oral administration: To reach the joint, an orally administered medication or joint supplements has to process through the digestive tract, which means you’ll lose a percentage of the medication

because it’s digested and then excreted in the normal excretory processes of the horse.

Intravenous administration: This is the method is one way to administer Legend—a sodium hyaluronate medication. Delivering medication through an injection into a vein causes the medication to be sent to all the joints of the horse’s body equally, so less ends up going to the joint that actually needs it.

Intra-articular administration: The medication is injected directly into the affected joint. According to Dr. Carter this is the most valuable method of delivering the drug.

“If you have a standard dose of sodium hyaluronate, and you give it to your horse orally, you’re going to lose half of it to the digestive tract, and the other half would get absorbed where it’s divided amongst 200 joints,” Dr. Carter said. “With the intravenous route of administration, you don’t lose any medication to the digestive tract, which is a cost-effective way of

palpate your horse’s legs and joints every day to catch an abnormality or heat from inflammation right away.

intra-articular joint therapy allows powerful and helpful medication to be delivered directly to the joints that need it. Joint therapy today is designed to get ahead of joint issues as part of preventative maintenance.

Oral administration of joint medication, either with a syringe or as a supplement, is helpful, but the medication must pass through the digestive system, diluting its effects.

intravenous administration of joint therapy medications is more potent than oral, but medication is distributed to all of the horse’s joints, not just the ones that need it most.

getting it administered to the horse. But it’s distributed to all of the joints in the horse’s body.”

If your horse only has one or two joints that are sore, such as his hocks or his stifles, you’ll end up with a low dose in those joints using intravenous administration. Joint therapy has an edge in this situation.

“With the intra-articular method, you’re putting a therapeutic dose of medication for the horse’s joint into a specific joint that has soreness, and you’ll

see dramatic improvements in the horse’s performance and a reduction of any level of soreness,” Dr. Carter said. “That’s why we have to use intra-articular medications—they are so much more effective.”

pOTENTial piTFallS

Dr. Carter explained the veterinary profession as a whole is cautious about intra-articular administration of medications because horses are susceptible to joint infections secondary to an injection at that site.

“Before you treat a joint with an intraarticular injection, you need to do a surgical prep of the skin above it,” Dr. Carter said. “For a veterinarian that doesn’t do joint injections frequently, it can be an intimidating process.”

Additionally, some regenerative medications can trigger what’s called a transient flair, similar to a minor allergic reaction, the first day after injection.

High doses of corticosteroids can be detrimental to the health of the cartilage, and should be avoided, cautioned Dr. Carter.

“The joint medications themselves are fantastic,” Dr. Carter said. “The downside is mainly the risk of infection with intra-articular medications. So you need to give the process a great deal of deliberation before you do it.”

MYTh BUSTiNG

In his experience, Dr. Carter found that the horse industry sometimes mistakenly views joint therapy with a negative connotation.

“When we say we’re going to inject the horse, it sometimes makes people think of dark shadowy days of doing something deleterious to the horse,” Dr. Carter said. “That just couldn’t be any further from the truth.”

The medications mentioned in this article are all legal for NRCHA competition, Dr. Carter explained. With the way

competition has progressed, medication that is unsuitable has fallen out of use with performance horses.

“The days of using medication that is not healthy for the horse has passed,” Dr. Carter said. “These horses are just too valuable to risk something that’s going to hasten the onset of arthritis. It’s just not smart.”

HyVisc and Adequan have been available for 20 years with proven records of improving joint function. And, in Dr.

///// MEET JOE carTEr, DVM

Dr. Joe carter is the owner and founder of Oklahoma Equine hospital and is the official veterinarian of the Nrcha . The hospital has two locations in Oklahoma and serves clients in a large area of the state, as well as Texas. Dr. carter specializes in horse show medicine and lameness.

Carter’s opinion, the development of regenerative medication has transformed joint medication from even 10 years ago.

“These products—IRAP and PRP technologies—are very, very healthy for the horse’s joints,” Dr. Cater said. “With good, sterile technique in the administration of intra-articular medications, the risks are very low, and the benefits are very high.”

Modern joint therapy does not hasten the need for more joint therapy, said Dr. Carter. It’s not a cascading effect.

“What we do today is incredibly healthy for the horse’s joints,” Dr. Carter said. “There’s this fear that once you start injecting, your horse is going downhill and will have to be injected over and over. What we’ve found is that older horses that haven’t been injected as younger horses will have more trouble with arthritis. We can get ahead of arthritis with the regenerative medicines that we use now.”

FIT TO FUNCTION

Dennis

Moreland explains a little bit about curb bit measurement and function.

To understand how your horse may respond to any given shanked or curb bit, it’s necessary to understand how to measure the various parts of the bit, and, to know what effect a bit with those measurements and their ratios may have on your horse. It’s also important to know how to measure the shanks, bars and port to determine if your bit is legal to show in.

First, understand that a shanked ( often called curb) bit is defined as any bit that produces leverage when the reins are pulled. The leverage component categorizes it as a curb bit, regardless of the mouthpiece. A curb bit has two main parts: the shanks (cheek pieces) and the mouthpiece. Where the bars of the mouthpiece attach to the shank is known as the “butt.” This is also the point of balance in any shanked bit and the point of rotation when pressure is applied to the reins.

A bit’s shank can be more accurately divided into the purchase, which includes the bridle ring above the butt, and the true shank, with rein ring below the butt. The length of the purchase and the length and angle of the shank help determine the speed that the horse’s mouth, curb strap groove, and poll, receive the signals (directly or indirectly) from the bit when the reins are pulled or released. It’s important to remember other design factors including bar diameter, mouthpiece angle, and port width and height, play roles in the effect of the bit on the horse’s mouth.

When the reins are pulled the bit revolves around the butt, which is the balance point. As the reins are pulled the rotation of the mouthpiece causes the bridle rings to move forward of the point of rotation and the shanks to move behind the point of rotation. This movement, in turn, causes the curb to be tightened on the chin and the crown piece of the headstall to put pressure on the horse’s poll. As the ratio of shank length to purchase length changes, the leverage a rider has available changes, as does the speed of the signal.

To measure the shank, start where the headstall is attached to the bit (on the inside of the bridle ring) and continue

Determining how a shank bit functions involves measuring the port and shanks.

through the butt straight to the point where the rein pressure is applied on the rein ring of the bit. The bit shown here has 8-inch shanks.

To determine the height of the port of a bit, start at the bottom of the port—which is at the bottom of the bars, where the bars would extend if there was no port—and measure through the middle of the port to its highest point. To measure the width of a port, or the area that provides tongue relief, start where the bars end and measure the distance between them.

Detailed rules for appointments and equipment for show, including requirements for bits, can be found in the official handbook of the NRCHA, the 2020 Rulebook.

///// MEET DENNiS MOrElaND

Nrcha member Dennis Moreland, owner of Dennis Moreland Tack, has been making quality working and show tack since 1976. Visit www.dmtack.com or call 817-312-5305 to see how Dennis can help you with your tack needs. Dennis Moreland Tack is a full line manufacturer of quality handmade tack and is here to help you!

Top Riders for Open Eligibility in 2020

Top Riders for Non Pro Eligibility in 2020

Name:

Other name(s) shown under: Ranch Name:

NATIONAL REINED COW HORSE ASSOCIATION

2020 Membership Application

Valid from Nov. 16, 2019 - Nov 15, 2020

o 1 Year Open Membership - $75 ($65 before Jan 1)

o 3 Year Open Membership - $210 ($180 before Jan 1)

o 1 Year Non Pro Membership - $75 ($65 before Jan 1)

o 3 Year Non Pro Membership - $210 ($180 before Jan 1)

o 1 Year Owner Only Membership - $75 ($65 before Jan 1)

o 3 Year Owner Only Membership - $210 ($180 before Jan 1)

o 1 Year Youth Membership - $40

o 1 Year Youth w/Non Pro Membership - $75

o 1 Year Youth Upgrade to Non Pro - $35

o 1 Year Associate Membership - $35

Memberships that DO NOT include subscription to Reined Cow Horse News

o Lifetime Membership - $750 ($650 before Jan 1)

o International Membership - $75

Cow Horse News (optional) Donation (optional) Total

ALL MEMBERS MUST SIGN HERE

o Check here if you are a TRAINER and want to be listed as such in the online NRCHA Directory.

Please be sure to complete the Non Pro Declaration. A card will not be issued without it!

Youth who wish to compete in the Non Pro MUST complete a Non Pro Declaration.

o 1 Year Canadian Membership - Add $10

o Add Reined Cow Horse News to Lifetime - $25/year

o Add Reined Cow Horse News to International - $85

you wish to donate to the

I, the undersigned, have read and understand the National Reined Cow Horse Association membership eligibility category definitions. I understand that the full responsibility concerning my eligibility rests solely on me. NRCHA, its officers, directors, employees are not held responsible for the burden of proof for my eligibility. Should I be found not eligible for said division after competing, all money, prizes, and points shall be forfeited and returned to the NRCHA office upon notification to me.

Signature:

Date: NON PRO APPLICATION - Non Pro riders must sign this section and also complete a Non Pro Declaration every year o Non Pro Renewal o New Non Pro

I, the undersigned, have read and understand the National Reined Cow Horse Association Non Pro definitions and rules and will abide by them. I also understand that if there is a change in my status or eligibility that I must inform the National Reined Cow Horse Association within 30 days of that change. I understand that my Non Pro application will be reviewed by the Non Pro Committee and may be reviewed by the NRCHA Board of Directors and their decision shall be final.

Signature:

Date:

NON PRO DECLARATION

Applicant Name (please print): _______________________________________________ Occupation: _____________________________

This form must be completed prior to entering applicant’s first NRCHA Non Pro class. In the case of a youth, the legal custodian must complete the declaration. Before submitting your application, please carefully read and answer the following statements, as well as read and sign the Non Pro Code of Conduct and Ethics.

NOTE: If the following statements are not answered or it is not signed, your declaration will not be accepted and will be returned to you for completion. Non Pro status is extended on a temporary basis and is subject to revocation pending approval by the Non Pro Committee. Non Pro status will be null and void if it is determined that you do not qualify under NRCHA Non Pro conditions, as defined in the NRCHA Rulebook. A Non Pro Card will not be issued until all requirements are satisfied.

1) Have you earned more than $750 in earnings down the fence? (for eligibility)

2) Within the past 5 years, have you given lessons for remuneration?

m Yes

m Yes

m No

m No

3) Within the past 5 years, have you shown, trained, or assisted in the training of a horse not owned by you or an immediate family member for remuneration? m Yes m No

4) Within the past 5 years, have you accepted payment of entry fees and/or expenses for horse(s) that you have ridden that was not owned by you or an immediate family member?

5) Do you reside on, work for, are publicly identified with or derive monetary remuneration, directly or indirectly, from a horse training facility or equine science program?

m Yes

m Yes

m No

m No

If you answered “yes” to any of the above, please explain below with specific dates as to when you started and/or stopped any of the above. Please use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

A. Relationship to operation of a horse training facility:

B. Explanation of any statements answered “yes” above:

NON PRO CODE OF CONDUCT & ETHICS

I, the undersigned, agree to act with the utmost of integrity while participating in the sport of Cow Horse and NRCHA events. I understand that an NRCHA Non Pro Card is a privilege and not a right, and that I may be required to submit my card for review of applicability at any time. Furthermore, I understand that so long as I hold a Non Pro card, it is my responsibility to be aware of and abide by the most current Non Pro Conditions set forth in the NRCHA Rulebook. By signing this agreement, I specifically agree to:

• Understand and be bound by all rules of the NRCHA as set forth in the annual NRCHA Rulebook.

• Abide by the show conditions set forth at all NRCHA approved shows.

• Act with honesty and transparency when purchasing horses as well as competing at NRCHA events.

• Ensure the welfare of the horses I show and treat those horses humanely, and with dignity and compassion.

• Refrain from violating the Non Pro Conditions as set forth in the annual NRCHA Rulebook.

• Represent the NRCHA by refraining from any action that discredits the sport, or the association.

• Accept the decisions set forth by the NRCHA Board of Directors.

By signing below, I ACCEPT the rules and regulations relating to Non Pro membership in the NRCHA, and affirm the truth of all statements above. I also affirm that I have read and agree to abide by the Non Pro Code of Conduct and Ethics.

Signature:

Date:

COMMITTEE DIRECTORY

AFFILIATES

Chairperson: Frank Prisco archapresident@gmail.com

631-478-7022

Lia Savas • indianheadranch@aol.com

Andres Sanchez • andresgccha@gmail.com

Roy Rich • roy_rich6@yahoo.com

Jim Wilson • wilson@myomnitel.com

Barb McCaughey mccaugheybarbara@gmail.com

WELFARE

Chairperson: Dr. Joe Carter, DVM jcarterdvm@aol.com • 405-288-6460

ETHICS

Chairperson: Bill Tointon billtointon@msn.com • 303-530-2443

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairperson: Paul Bailey paulb@cb-trucking.com • 931-260-3909

Frank Prisco • archapresident@gmail.com

Trey Neal • trey@treyneal.com

Todd Bergen bergenperformancehorses@gmail.com

HALL OF FAME

Chairperson: Dan Roeser roeserstables@gmail.com 208-841-2052

Ted Robinson • ted@tedrobinsoncowhorses.com

Bobby Ingersoll • bobby@bobbyingersoll.com

Smoky Pritchett • pritchettl@att.net

Ken Wold • ken@kenwold.com

HORSE SALES

Chairperson: Todd Crawford toddcrawford333@gmail.com

Sandy Collier • sandy@sandycollier.com

Jeff Oswood • oswoodstallionstation@gmail.com

Rick Ford • rick@cinderlakesranch.com

Boyd Rice • boydrice1965@gmail.com

JUDGES

Chairperson: Darren Miller dmillerstables@aol.com • 303-601-5483

Director of Judges: Bill Enk enk.bill@gmail.com

Dan Roeser • roeserstables@gmail.com

Ron Emmons • ladonadare@me.com

Todd Crawford • toddcrawford333@gmail.com

Sam Rose • sroseqh@yahoo.com

Todd Bergen bergenperformancehorses@gmail.com

NRCHA FOUNDATION

Chairperson: MJ Isakson mj@nrchaf.com

NOMINATING

Chairperson: Jon Roeser jonroeser@sti.net

NON PRO

Chairperson: Diane Edwards Diane2bph@outlook.com • 206-390-0715

Meg Rosell-Pursel • meg@roselltrailers.com

Nelle Murphy • baldnshiney@hotmail.com

Bart Holowath • bart.holowath@gmail.com

Kris Troxel • ktroxel@sitestar.net

Tim Swain • Coloradolandandranch@gmail.com

Kathy Ferguson • fergielivestock@yahoo.com

OWNERS

Chairperson: Linda McMahon maclin@earthlink.net • 415.269.5563

PROFESSIONALS

Chairperson: Cayley Wilson cayleyrwilson@gmail.com • 604-300-0401

RULES

Chairperson: Dan Roeser roeserstables@gmail.com • 208-841-2052

Lyn Anderson • lsanderson@wildblue.net

Darren Miller • dmillerstables@aol.com

Jake Telford • j.jtelford1@gmail.com

Boyd Rice • boydrice1965@gmail.com

Kelley Hartranft • kelley@nrcha.com

SHOWS

Co-Chairperson: Todd Bergen bergenperformancehorses@gmail.com 541-778-0980

Co-Chairperson: Boyd Rice boydrice1965@gmail.com • 806-282-8113

SPONSORSHIP

Chairperson: Allison Walker allison@NRCHA.com • 940-488-1500

STALLION SERVICE AUCTION

Chairperson: Garth Gardiner gardinergarth@gmail.com • 620-635-5632

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Chairperson: TBD

Trey Neal • trey@treyneal.com

Dr. Joe Carter • jcarterdvm@aol.com

Todd Crawford • toddcrawford333@gmail.com

YOUTH

Chairperson: Sarah Clymer shubrick3@gmail.com • 719-330-1932

Allison Walker • allison@nrcha.com

Todd Crawford • toddcrawford333@gmail.com

SHOW SCHEDULE

as of February 18, 2020

LAE = Limited Aged Event, HS = Horse Show

Apr 9 - 11 VOLRHA Spring Fling

Apr 11 CCHA Show #3

Apr 16 - 19 April Show

Apr 18 - 19 Dust Off the Rust

Apr 18 - 19 Dust Off the Saddle Event

Apr 21 - 26 Sagebrush

Apr 24 Santa Ynez Valley Cow Horse #3

April 24 - 26 Heritage Days Classic

Apr 24 - 26 Cowgirl Classic #1 & #2

Apr 25 - 26 Spring Fling

Apr 29 - May 2 Derby & 2nd Stage Championship

May 1 - 3 Sinsheim Open

May 2 - 3 Good To Be Green Show

May 5 - 10 Wild Rag

May 15 - 17 Jimmy Flores Sr. Memorial

May 15 - 17 Spring Spectacular

May 16 - 17 May Celebration

May 16 - 17 ARCHA Show #2

May 22 - 24 CCHA SJH Livestock Spectacular, Derby & Shows #4 & #5

May 22 - 25 Drought Buster

May 23 - 24 VOLRHA Salute the Troops

May 23 - 24 Cow Horse Boogie

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Memphis, TN

HS/Cat 1 Tulare, CA California CHA

Leslie Fluhr (502) 551-7955 lesfluhr@gmail.com

Laura Norman (559) 760-0512 kathy@saddleup-enterprises.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Ardmore, OK Southwest RCHA Pam Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org

HS/Cat 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Winona, MN North Central RCHA

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Pueblo, CO Colorado RCA

HS/Cat 1 Santa Ynez, CA

HS/Cat 1 Hamilton, TX South Texas RCHA

Jun 6 - 7 Silver Spur Classic

Jun 18 - 21 Summer Spectacular

Jun 18 - 20 Hackamore Classic & 3rd Stage Championship

Jun 19 - 21 Cow Horse Event

Jun 20 - 21 River Classic

Jun 26 - 28 Michigan Shoot Out 2020

Jun 27 CCHA Show #6

Jun 27 - 28 ARCHA Show #3

Jun 27 - 28 Cowboy State Classic

Jul 2 - 5 Firecracker

Jul 10 - 12 July Jubilee

Jul 11 - 12 Summer Classic

Jul 17 - 19 California Rodeo Salinas

Jul 17 - 19 Red Dirt Rendezvous & Derby

Jul 18 - 19 Liberty Event

Jul 25 CCHA Show #7

Jul 25 - 26 Cowboy Classic

Jul 29 - Aug 2 Mountain High

Jul 31 - Aug 2 Pre Futurity & 4th Stage Championship

Aug 8 - 9 ARCHA Show #4

Aug 10 - 16 Pre Futurity & Horse Show

Aug 14 - 16 Cow Horse Event

Aug 15 CCHA Show #8

Aug 18 - 23 Mid America

Aug 22 - 23 Cowgirl Classic

Sep 4 - 6 Labor Day Show & Futurity

Sep 9 - 12 Futurity & Nations Cup & 5th Stage

Sep 12 - 13 September Challenge

Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com

Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 crcaentries@yahoo.com

Carol Sutton (805) 260-4535 info@syvch.org

Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 southtexasrcha@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Lynden, WA Northwest RCHA Keri Croft (503) 701-3305 dkcroft4@frontier.com

HS/Cat 1 Sarasota, FL Gulf Coast RCHA Claudia Nichols (772) 321-9637 claudia.horseshow@gmail.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Cremona, ITALY European RCHA Otto De Fazio +39(338) 886-0657 ercha@hotmail.it

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Sinsheim, GERMANY

Sylvia Bate +49(160) 844-4813 sylvia.bate@web.de

HS/Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Fort Worth, TX Southwest RCHA Pam Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org

HS/Cat 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 socalrcha@aol.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Sarasota, FL Gulf Coast RCHA Claudia Nichols (772) 321-9637 claudia.horseshow@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Tulare, CA California CHA Laura Norman (559) 760-0512 kathy@saddleup-enterprises.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 McCook, NE Colorado RCA Allison Walker (937) 725-1423 crcaentries@yahoo.com

HS/Cat 1 Murfeesboro, TN Leslie Fluhr (502) 551-7955 lesfluhr@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Amite City, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Ardmore, OK Southwest RCHA Pam Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Worbis, GERMANY European RCHA Otto De Fazio +39(338) 886-0657 ercha@hotmail.it

Sep 13 Cow Horse Express

Sep 17 - 20 West Slope Pre-Futurity

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com

May 23 - 24 Windy City Warm Up HS/Cat 1 Amarillo, TX Panhandle RCHA Nelle Muphy (580)276-0761 panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Amite City, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Midland, MI Michigan RCH Mike Lewiski mcreiners@yahoo.com

HS/Cat 1 Tulare, CA California CHA Laura Norman (559) 760-0512 kathy@saddleup-enterprises.com

HS/Cat 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Riverton, WY Nikki Francis (208) 539-5410 vpnikki@gmail.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Montrose, CO Colorado RCA Allison Walker (937) 725-1423 crcaentries@yahoo.com

HS/Cat 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 socalrcha@aol.com

HS/Cat 1 Amite City, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Salinas, CA Rose Ramos (831) 775-3100 sdurgan@carodeo.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Amarillo, TX Panhandle RCHA Nelle Muphy (580)276-0761 panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Winona, MN North Central RCHA Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Estes Park, CO Colorado RCA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 crcaentries@yahoo.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Travagliato, Italy European RCHA Otto De Fazio +39(338) 886-0657 ercha@hotmail.it

HS/Cat 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Fort Worth, TX Southwest RCHA Pam Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com

Sep 19 - 20 VOLRHA Beat the Heat

Sep 19 - 20 ARCHA Show #5

HS/Cat 1 Tulare, CA California CHA Laura Norman (559) 760-0512 kathy@saddleup-enterprises.com

HS/Cat 1 Tulare, CA California CHA Laura Norman (559) 760-0512 kathy@saddleup-enterprises.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Loveland, CO Colorado RCA Allison Walker (937) 725-1423 crcaentries@yahoo.com

HS/Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/Cat 1 Bryan, TX South Texas RCHA Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 southtexasrcha@gmail.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Mooslargue, FRANCE European RCHA Otto De Fazio +39(338) 886-0657 ercha@hotmail.it

HS/Cat 1 Amite City, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Sarasota, FL Gulf Coast RCHA Claudia Nichols (772) 321-9637 claudia.horseshow@gmail.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Montrose, CO Colorado RCA Keri Croft (503) 701-3305 crcaentries@yahoo.com

Sep 18 - 20 September Classic HS/Cat 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 socalrcha@aol.com

HS/Cat 1 Memphis, TN Leslie Fluhr (502) 551-7955 lesfluhr@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

Oct 10 - 11 Yahoo Buckaroo

Oct 16 - 18 Autumn Show & 6th Stage Championship

Oct 29 - Nov 1 Colorado Futurity

Nov 13 - 15 CCHA Gotta Go Get It Saddle Shoot Out & Shows #9 & #10

Nov 14 - 15 2020 Wrap Up

Nov 14 - 15 VOLRHA Fall Finale

HS/Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

HS/LAE/Cat 1 Travagliato, Italy European RCHA Otto De Fazio +39(338) 886-0657 ercha@hotmail.it

HS/LAE/Cat 1/ Cat 2 Pueblo, CO Colorado CHA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 crcaentries@yahoo.com

Nov 6 - 8 ARCHA Fall Extravaganza HS/Cat 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com

Sep 26 - 27 Fall Into Autumn HS/Cat 1 Lubbock, TX Panhandle RCHA Nelle Muphy (580) 278-0781 panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Bryan, TX South Texas RCHA Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 southtexasrcha@gmail.com

HS/Cat 1 Murfeesboro, TN

HS/Cat 1 Tulare, CA California CHA Laura Norman (559) 760-0512 kathy@saddleup-enterprises.com

Leslie Fluhr (502) 551-7955 lesfluhr@gmail.com

Alberta Reined Cow Horse Association

Shawna Husted

27245 Twp 350

Red Deer, AB T4G 0M4 CANADA

Phone: 403-875-1369

Email: info@cowhorse.ca

Website: www.cowhorse.ca

Arizona Reined Cow Horse Association

Bronwyn McCormick

28150 N Alma School Pkwy Ste 103-520 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Phone: 480-510-0974

Email: info@azrcha.com

Website: www.azrcha.com

Atlantic Reined Cow Horse Association

Frank Prisco

189 Old Willets Path

Smithtown, NY 11787

Phone: 631-478-7022

Email: archapresident@gmail.com

Website: www.atlanticRCHA.com

Australian Reined Cow Horse Association

Jay Gordon

359 Duri-Dungowan Rd

Tamworth, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA 2340

Phone: +61 490 915094

Email: archa@outlook.com.au

Website: www.cowhorseaustralia.com

California Cow Horse Association

Stacy Duesterhaus 15169 Road 223

Porterville, CA 93257

Phone: 559-999-8146

Email: califcowhorse@gmail.com

Website: www.californiacowhorse.com

Canadian Coast Reined Cow Horse Association

Katie Wilson

1280 Powerhouse Rd.

Abbotsford, BC V3G 1T7 CANADA

Phone: 604-300-3545

Email: cowponykate@gmail.com

Website: www.ccrcha.com

Central Montana Reined Cow Horse Association

Jill Roberts

1521 Parr Creek Ln

Lewistown, MT 59457

Phone: 406-538-7564

Email: vjroberts@hughes.net

AFFILIATE LISTING

Current as of March 1, 2020

Website: www.cmrcha.com

Colorado Reined Cowhorse Association

MJ Anderson PO Box 88 Trinidad, CO 81082

Phone: 719-963-4770

Email: coloradocowhorse@gmail.com

Website: www.coloradoreinedcowhorse.com

European Reined Cow Horse Association

Augusto De Fazio

via Natalia Ginzburg 1 - 11015 Ivrea (TO) ITALY

Phone: +(39) 338 8860657

Email: ercha@hotmail.it

Website: www.ercha.org

Gem State Stock Horse Association

Brian Lesher

301 Market Rd Caldwell, ID 83607

Website: www.gemstatestockhorse.com

Gulf Coast Cow Horse Association

Andres Sanchez 10227 Pittman Rd

Sarasota, FL 34240

Phone: 561-248-1437

Email: andresGCCHA@gmail.com

Website: www.gulfcoastcowhorse.com

Idaho Reined Cow Horse Assocaition

Paxton Deal

20997 Simplot Blvd Greenleaf, ID 83626

Phone: 208-880-9066

Email: paxtondeal@gmail.com

Website: www.idahoreinedcowhorse.com

Italian Reined Cow Horse Association

Laura Ruffino Vercellino

Via Grilloni 25

22100 Como ITALY

Phone: +39 347 26 22 783

Email: segreteria.ircha@gmail.com

Website: https://nrchaofitaly.com/

Magic Valley Reined Cow Horse Association

Karl Smith

PO Box 5956

Twin Falls, ID 83303

Phone: 208-308-2676

Email: kds.cowhorses@gmail.com

Michigan Reined Cow Horse Association

Deena Dunkle 7325 Edere Rd

Saginaw, MI 48609

Phone: 989-233-7157

Email: deenadunkle@me.com

Midwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Susan Tullock

5000 W 175th St

Stilwell, KS 66085

Phone: 913-515-4683

Email: midwestcowhorse@gmail.com

Montana Reined Cow Horse Futurity, Inc

Margaret Ore PO Box 1604

East Helena, MT 59635

Phone: 406-227-7019

Email: more@mt.net

Website: www.montanareinedcowhorse.com

Nevada Reined Cow Horse Association

Aubree Englert 6600 W Rome Blvd

Las Vegas, NV 89131

Phone: 702-290-4231

Email: aubree.rcha@gmail.com Website: www.nvrcha.org

New York Reined Cow Horse Association

Lisa Sykes

300 Hopkins Road Canandaigua, NY 14424 Phone: 585-315-7809

Email: lisasykes@yahoo.com Website: www.newyorkrcha.com

North Central Reined Cow Horse Association

Jim Wilson 21637 315th St

Plymouth, IA 50464

Phone: 641-420-0440

Email: wilson@myomnitel.com Website: www.ncrcha.com

Northeastern Reined Cowhorse Alliance

Mary Baks

13 Maple Hill Rd RR #2

Walkerton, ON N0G 2V0 CANADA

Phone: 519-881-8684

Email: info@walkertonequine.ca Website: www.nercha.ca

Northern California Reined Cow Horse Association

Tara Folsom PO Box 1112

Willows, CA 95988

Phone: 530-518-3753

Email: tarafolsom@yahoo.com Website: www.ncrcha.info

Northwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Diane Edwards PO Box 1244

Ravensdale, WA 98051

Phone: 206-390-0715

Email: diane2bph@outlook.com Website: www.nwrcha.com

Panhandle Reined Cow Horse Association

Justin Stanton PO Box 1053 Canyon, TX 79015

Phone: 806-281-4770

Email: panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com Website: www.panhandlecowhorse.com

AFFILIATE LISTING

South Dakota Reined Cow Horse Association

Deb Brown PO Box 655 Buffalo, SD 57720

Phone: 605-797-4514

Email: nphorses@sdplains.com Website: www.sdrcha.com

South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association

Tina McCleary 5290 Hearne Rd Bryan, TX 77808

Phone: 979-218-0633

Email: southtexasrcha@gmail.com Website: www.strcha.org

Southern California Reined Cow Horse Association

Shelley Schaffer

33175 Temecula Pkwy Ste A, 754

Temecula, CA 92592

Phone: 858-722-5995

Email: smal4joy@gmail.com Website: www.scrcha.com

Southern Reined Cow Horse Alliance

Larry Westmoreland PO Box 143 Tickfaw, LA 70466

Phone: 985-320-5058

Email: larry.westwindtc@gmail.com Website: www.srchala.com

Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association

Gay Lenz 11587 Hunt Lane

Guthrie, OK 73044

Phone: 405-818-7556

Email: glenz@glenzenterprises.com Website: www.srcha.org

Swedish Reined Cow Horse Association

Joakim Pettersson

Astorp Gunnarsgarden 6 SE – 521 96 Falkoping SWEDEN

Phone: +46 70 676 7642

Email: jipquarters@jipquarters.com Website: www.srcha.eu

The Carolinas Reined Cow Horse Association

Crystal Ward-Taylor 130 Haigler Rd Lenoir, NC 28645

Phone: 828-312-2705

Email: cward@carolinafarmcredit.com

Utah Reined Cow Horse Association

Nikki Francis 3644 N. 3300 E. Kimberly, ID 83341

Phone: 208-539-5410

Email: vpnikki@gmail.com Website:www.urcha.org

NRCHA Suspended List

NRCHA membership privileges will be suspended for the second offense of bad checks, per rule 1.1.6.2 and for non payment of debt to NRCHA Show Management or NRCHA Approved Show Management. Additionally, all amounts for advertising in the NRCHA publication, Reined Cow Horse News, are due and payable within 30 days of receipt.

Agricultural Foundation, Fresno, CA

Desert Spring Ranch, Queen Creek, AZ

Keetch Ranch, Waddell, AZ

Del Rey Paint & Qtr Horses/Aneka

Schelbeck, Cotton Wood, CA

Bynum Farms/Blair Bynum, Palm City, FL

Donnie Boyd, Sarasota, FL

Robyn Bush, Visalia, CA

Marcy Campbell, Creston, CA

Pompeo Capezzone, Castrocielo 03030, ITALY

Riccardo Capezzone, Castrocielo 03030, ITALY

Cody Christensen, Heber City, UT

Tom Daughetee, Kemmerer, WY

Shad DeGiorgis, El Dorado Hills, CA

Laura Delfino, Martinez, CA

Pat Faitz, Lakeland, FL

Robert Frobose, Modesto, CA

A finance charge of 1.5% per month (18% APR) will be added to all past due amounts. Membership privileges shall be suspended on accounts greater than 90 days past due and this information will be published in Reined Cow Horse News. There will be a membership reinstatement fee of $75.

Miguel Gonzalez, Miami, FL

Babcock Ranch/Jim Babcock, Sanger, TX

Brandon Johnson, Nebraska City, NE

Bridgette Lanham, Eastover, SC

Thera Myers, Oxnard, CA

Steed Training/Rick Steed, Okeechobee, FL

Jill Serena, Castaic, CA

Vernon Smith, Santa Maria, CA

Dream Cross/Susan Ray, TX

Lazy T Shamrock Ranch/ Terry Malarkey, Star, ID

Current as of March 1, 2020

Elizabeth Winkle, Sarasota, FL

Don Stockman, Dayton, TX

Kinsey Dodson, Cleburne, TX

Oasis Ranch/Pete & Marilyn Bowling

– Purcell, OK

Bill Anderson – Merino, CO

Darren Roberts – Kent, NY

Roy Hockensmith – Frankfort, KY

Brian & Cynthia Holthouse –

San Juan Bautista, CA

Rita F. Ward – Canyon, TX

Overall Wellness

A wellness formula with all the benefits of Platinum Performance® Equine, designed to support your horse from head to hoof.

Research

More than 30 veterinary research projects have supported the effectiveness and development of Platinum formulas.

Complete Joint Support

To Maintain Soundness & Longevity

Advanced Joint Support

Includes a powerful combination of ingredients to support healthy cartilage, joint lubrication and a normal inflammatory response for joint longevity.

Show Safe

Quality

We choose quality and efficacy over low-cost ingredients, ensuring formula protection, potency and purity.

All formulas are subjected to extensive testing for over 200 banned substances for horse safety and athlete protection.

Results

Developed by veterinarians in clinical practice, to ensure results in horses from Olympic contenders to pet ponies.

Platinum Performance® CJ The Only Formula of Its Kind

As the most comprehensive combination of joint supporting ingredients available, Platinum Performance® CJ contains omega-3 fatty acids, ASU (Avocado/Soy Unsaponifiables), HA (Hyaluronic Acid), cetyl myristoleate, MSM, Boswellia serrata and more to help maintain soundness.

Platinum formulas are only available from your veterinarian or direct from Platinum Performance®.

Platinum Performance® formulas are only available from your licensed equine veterinarian or direct from Platinum Performance®.