Gunna Be G REAT
Shane Steffen and Gunna Be A Smartie crowned World’s Greatest Horseman Champions
MARCH/APRIL
VOLUME 26, NO. 2
On CD Dee Vee Dee, Cutter McLaughlin checks off the top title he’s chased: World’s Greatest Youth Horseman.
CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS CIRCLE UP
50 Champion Comeback
Shane Steffen and Gunna Be A Smartie both overcame injury, making this win even sweeter than the ones the duo previously earned.
58 Goal, Accomplished
Chasing down the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman title meant Cutter McLaughlin had to bring out his long-time partner, CD Dee Vee Dee.
68 2021 NRCHA World Champions
82 Sliding into the Winner’s Circle
SnapDragons proved he could compete with the older horses when he carried Zane Davis to the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Open win.
90 A Good Bet
Parke Greeson and SCR BetThisTime parlayed their 2020 NRCHA Hackamore Classic success into the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Non Pro win.
96 An Icy Triumph
North Central Texas College claims their third championship.
100 High Marks for Tylor Todd North Central Texas College claims their third championship.
102 NRCHA Celebration of Champions Awards List
including the
the
114 Affiliate of the Year
A welcoming community of cow horse folks raises money for children in crisis.
120 How-To Haul
Prepare for the long haul with 13 tips to keep you and your horse healthy and safe.
126 2020 NRCHA National Champions
10 Quotable
14 From the Judge’s Chair
16 Million Dollar Club
20 NRCHyA News
24 All-Access: World Show
MEMBERROUNDUP
28 Behind the Buckle
30 Know the Pro: Ben Baldus
36 Notable Non Pro: Christine Swanson
44 Meet Hannes Winkler
48 Faces of the NRCHA
IN EVERY ISSUE
4 From the Executive Director
8 NRCHA President’s Letter 152 Dennis Moreland’s Tack Tips 154 Affiliate List 155 Suspended List
158 NRCHA Committee Directory
160 NRCHA Approved Events
On the cover:
Gunna Be A Smartie carried Shane Steffen to his first World’s Greatest Horseman win (page 50).
Photo by Primo Morales.
On the inside cover:
Cutter McLaughlin hit his goal winning the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman
riding CD Dee Vee Dee (page 58).
Photo by Primo Morales.
Gusti Buerger and Magicality topped two preliminary events,
cow work, to make
World’s Greates Horseman Finals and earn the High Score Cowgirl award.
PAUL EAVES
2x WORLD CHAMPION HEELER
NEVER COUNT US OUT
Perseverance is defined as a continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties. Difficulties. Yes, I would say we faced a few of those during the 2021 National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions! From recordbreaking winter weather that resulted in food, water and propane shortages to trailer fires and broken bones, our exhibitors and staff faced many unusual challenges this year. And yet, the NRCHA family persevered.
While much of Fort Worth, Texas, and beyond was brought to a standstill by the weather, we managed to operate a smooth and safe show with record-breaking entries. No one watching the livestream would have known that our exhibitors were utilizing the tunnel system to reach the arenas, or that our team members were running practice pens in single-digit temperatures. The livestream didn’t feature the outpouring of support after a member lost a trailer in a fire. It didn’t capture million-dollar riders shimmying under trailers with space heaters to help their neighbors in the RV lot thaw waterlines. From the outside looking in, viewers saw the world’s best reined cow horses, horsemen and horsewomen showing their hearts out in the arena.
Over the course of 12 days, the NRCHA crowned 15 World Champions, winners in the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby, collegiate and National High School Rodeo Association challenge winners, as well as our MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman Cutter McLaughlin, and DT Horses and Hashtags World’s Greatest Horseman Shane Steffen. Cutter and Shane rode to the top of the largest fields ever in their respective events. I expect the World’s Greatest Horseman field to grow in 2022 after Jeremy Barwick and Western Bloodstock announced a $50,000 match to the winner’s purse, bringing the total to $100,000.
The Celebration of Champions showed everyone that the NRCHA is strong and has a bright future. Thanks to the positive, can-do attitudes of our members, staff and supporters, I know there is nothing we can’t accomplish together. But maybe we can take a pass on snow for the Stallion Stakes….
Best wishes, and we’ll see you in sunny Las Vegas!
Best wishes,
Volume 26, Number 2
Official Publication of the
National Reined Cow Horse Association
Published by Morris Equine Group a division of MCC Magazines, LLC
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 Director: Dr. Anna Morrison
Premier Event Manager: Emily Konkel
Communications Manager: Kate Bradley Byars
Program Manager: Elizabeth Ellis
Accounting & Sponsor Contract Manager: Kim Lindsey
Membership/Affiliate Shows Manager: Barbara Nahlik
Director of Judges: Bill Enk
Official NRCHA Photographer: Primo Morales
Official NRCHA Videographer: Equine Promotion
REINED COW HORSE NEWS
Vice President: John Lunn
Editor: Kate Bradley Byars
Managing Editor: Jennifer Denison
Production Manager: Sherry Brown
Art Director: Susan Sampson
Advertising Sales
Breeders: Shawn McCoy, 620-951-4026/ shawn.mccoy@morris.com
Sales Customer Service Manager: Diana Buettner, 817-569-7114
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.
Dr. Anna Morrison
– THE OFFICIAL BOOT OF THE NRCHA –old-fashioned reputation. new - fashioned styling.
At Rios of Mercedes, quality has been a way of life since 1853. That’s 168 years of our craftsmen handmaking extraordinary boots with artist-like devotion.
PURELY PROFESSIONAL
Did we have a memorable World Show or what? I saw riders helping each other in the show pen and outside of it, pulling together to lend a hand and help each other with not the most fun of winter weather tasks. It made me proud to be a member of our association.
Inside and outside the arena, it’s good to remember that while we compete against each other, we’re all in this industry together. What’s so awesome and unique about NRCHA is that we help each other. Maybe not every member is a best friend with every other member, but everyone is included in the cow horse community.
Corey Cushing, NRCHA president
At times, tensions can run high, especially with our Open riders. This sport has gotten to be tough, and every single run is important for trainers and the owners they ride for. Even when things don’t go right inside the arena with a horse, remember that we are all being viewed as professionals and should conduct ourselves as such. Our conduct is what sets the tone to our clients, other competitors and those visiting our events from other groups.
It isn’t always easy to be upbeat when facing challenges or a disappointment. A score that didn’t meet expectations can push all of our buttons. But remember, the reined cow horse industry is growing so fast and all of our members want to be part of the competition. The judges that gives of their
time to share their opinions deserve respect. I’ve not always agreed with every judge’s scorecard, but I respect that they, like me, are out there doing their best for our horses, riders and association.
Why are we the fastest growing association? Because we are all family. Because we help each other. Because our association is united. With the negativity in our world today, we shine a light on a fun, family-oriented and growing membership in this horse industry.
Our partner in the arena is our animal. All we can work with is what that horse has to offer that day, and we all have to accept the judge’s opinion when he or she marks that card. Next time we get together to show horses, remember that while things can and will go wrong, so much about our association is right. We want to portray that positivity in all we do.
Sincerely,
Corey Cushing
2020 SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® OWNERS FUND DONORS
Alvin & Becky Fults
Bet He Sparks / K & L Phillips
Bet Hesa Cat Syndicate
Brazos Valley Stallion Station
Carol Rose
Dual Smart Rey / Strawn Valley Ranch
Ellen & Larry Bell
Fulton Quien Sabe Ranches LP
Gardiner Quarter Horses
Hat 6 Ranch / Walter & Jocelyn Greeman
Hooray Ranch / Eric & Wendy Dunn
Matthews Cutting Horses
Kevin & Sydney Knight
Kit & Charlie Moncrief / Moncrief Quarter Horses
Kit Kat Sugar / Barbara Allsup
Larry & Kathy Barker
Meteles Cat
Shiney Outlaw / Cannon Quarter Horses
Oswood Stallion Station
Roxanne Koepsell Performance Horses
San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Shining CD Light / Ophir Creek Stables LLC
Silveira Produce Sales Inc.
Stuart Ranch
WR This Cats Smart
QUOTABLE
When they turned the cow out for me, I felt like the cow took ahold of my horse and was letting me get some shape on it. When we took off down the fence, I was thinking ‘sit back’ and the last thing Ron told me was to keep my eye on the cow. I was watching that cow and making a long run, and when [my horse] circled that cow up, I knew in my heart that he had it. I just needed to sit in the middle so we stayed on all four feet. I felt the most emotion I’ve felt in years. It’s such a blessing to ride [Solano Cat]! I can’t describe what it is like to ride a Ron Ralls horse he trained from beginning to end. To ride and show one he trained in the bridle is the most amazing feeling in the whole wide world.”
—Patty Ralls, the champion of the 2021 World’s Greatest Horsewoman competition held at Art of the Cowgirl and wife of NRCHA Hall of Fame trainer Ron Ralls
The National Reined Cow Horse Association supports Art of the Cowgirl’s World’s Greatest Horsewoman competition by providing an entry to the NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman to the winner. Tammy Pate and her daughter, Mesa Pate, produce the event annually, bringing together women involved in ranching and the horse industry for a long weekend that involves workshops, demonstrations, a ranch rodeo and team roping, and the four-event competition that Ralls won in 2021.
FROM THE JUDGE’S CHAIR
By the time this magazine comes out the 2021 World’s Greatest Horseman contest, presented by DT Horses and Hashtags, will already be in the history books. The challenging discipline for judges in this contest is probably the steer stopping. There are several reasons: 1) Of all our major events this is the only one that has steer stopping included; 2) Most of the horses in this event show in cow horse classes, only a few show in the roping; and 3) Most of our trainers and exhibitors don’t get the chance to rope all the time, which puts added pressure on them. Plus, each exhibitor only gets to show one horse so it’s kind of a do-ordie situation.
Most of our judges are familiar with roping; some rope, some judge at the Quarter Horse shows, which offer roping, but in general most don’t get to judge a lot of roping classes. So, there is added pressure on them to “get it right.” Believe me they take it seriously!
Usually the prep tapes we send out before the event for the judges to look at, practice scoring and to get their mojo going have 10 runs apiece on them. The steer stopping had 40 runs on the DVD, plus I bring the DVD from two years ago in case we need to look at some more runs.
Competitive roping is based on time—fastest time wins. The steer stopping at the WGH is a judged roping with emphasis on correct form. Degree of difficulty of the animal drawn also plays a part in the final score. The
overall run that exhibits good, correct form and has some degree of difficulty and eye appeal is ideal to the judges. Of course, the luck of the draw plays into this scenario just like all classes involving cattle.
Judging the steer stopping is like watching a fueled dragster go a quartermile in 4.5 seconds. If you lose focus for just a second, the run is over. Staying focused and consistent with their scores are challenges for our judges.
Scoring is based on three maneuvers: box and barrier, run and rate, and stop. Also factored in are degree of difficulty and eye appeal. The maneuvers are
scored from a +3 (excellent) to a -3 (extremely poor), with the maneuver score of 0 being neither good nor poor.
The box and barrier are scored from the time the exhibitor enters the box until he or she leaves and is past the barrier string. The way the horse walks into the box, turns around, stands in the corner and leaves are what is being judged. The more confident they are in and leaving the box are important for positive scores. A credit-earning score in the box and at the barrier means the horse behaved well in the box and gave the exhibitor a chance to make a successful run.
Luke Jones rode Wranglered
FROM THE JUDGE’S CHAIR
The run and rate are two parts: the run, which is how fast the horse gets to the steer, and the rate, or when the horse got to the steer did he match the speed of the steer on his own, or did he need help? Most cow horses know about rating a steer from the herd and fence work. The difficulty comes from whether the horse attempts to rate by the steer to turn him on the fence, or does he rate to let the roper have a fair chance to catch the steer? The hard part on judging this maneuver is the horse that does one part well and one part not so well. If it’s not all good or all bad, the maneuver score should reflect the balance between the run and the rate to be fair.
The stop should be a good finish for a credit-earning run. For credit, the horse should stop straight, hold the ground until the steer is stopped and turned, and handle his head gear in a bridle horse manner (not gaping its mouth excessively or resisting the bridle). If the horse finishes well as described, credit should be earned. If parts are good and parts not so good, a balance in the score is required.
Penalties in all maneuver categories should be obvious to be applied, or a possible reduction in maneuver score could be warranted.
Until Next Time,
Bill Enk NRCHA Director of Judges
RON RALLS CROSSES MILLIONDOLLAR MARK
RAt $1,001,161.64, Ron
on Ralls is a National Reined Cow Horse Association Million Dollar Rider following his Intermediate Open win aboard One Time Edition (One Time Pepto x PG Special Edition x Playgun) in the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby at the 2021 Celebration of Champions show in Fort Worth, Texas. With official NRCHA earnings of $1,001,161.64, the two-time World’s Greatest Horseman and NRCHA Hall of Fame member achieved another goal in his lengthy reined cow horse career.
“To be honest, it wasn’t even on my mind [before the show],” said Ralls. “I had no idea how much money I lacked to make it, though I knew it wasn’t a whole, whole lot. We won just under $17,000 [in the Derby] and it was enough. I wanted to get there officially, the way the NRCHA sees it. It was a sigh of relief—a weight lifted off my shoulders.”
Ralls’ career has spanned three decades, with his first recorded earnings in 1987, and his first entry into the Open Bridle class at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® in 1995, riding Infant Dial. Since the intial $400 he won cutting, Ralls has ridden horses to top honors in every major NRCHA event, from futurity and derby-aged horses in snaffle bits, to hackamore and two-rein titles, to bridle aged champions.
For Ralls, creating a well-trained horse is the ultimate reward and his goal.
“I love the horses. I love to see the progress. I am a very slow trainer,” he said. “Foundation is the most important thing to me. I probably go slower on them than I need to but I think long term. There is life after the Futurity and life after the Derby years for a horse, if you do things right. That is more important to me than winning the Futurity.”
The Gainesville, Texas, based horseman thanks his wife, Patty Ralls, for keeping him rolling down the road. Achieving Million Dollar Rider status, Ralls joins 19 others in the NRCHA Million Dollar Club.
Ralls finally crossed into official Million Dollar Rider territory.
According to Ralls, One Time Edition will always be the horse that carried him across the earnings mark.
FROM THE NRCHyA
From Ben Self, NRCHyA secretary
The National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions was quite an eventful show compared to other years. Aside from the once-in-a-lifetime blizzard, a trailer fire, a shortage of stores open and selling food and busted water lines, the National Reined Cow Horse Youth Association was in full force! Before our annual meeting that occurred toward the conclusion of the show, many youth children gathered in parking lots on the grounds, built snowmen and organized snowball fights.
When our younger youth members were outside for too long of a period, they were invited to come to the “Cowhorse Full Contact” booth and play board games and online games on my computer. This allowed many kids
to not have cabin fever or frost bite during the cold blizzard!
During the majority of the show, youth members collected canned goods that were donated to a local food bank at the national meeting toward the conclusion of the show. Once a youth member donated the canned good at the youth meeting, the NRCHyA reimbursed the stall cost for the youth member. The NRCHyA reimburses stalls to help the food bank receive more canned goods and to cut down the show expenses for a youth member at the show. Another resource the association provided to youth members at the Celebration of Champions is a study room that allowed them to work on remote learning throughout the show. Complimentary Wi-Fi was provided for youth members in the study room.
At the show this year, the NRCHyA decided to host a silent auction where youth members donated items that represented themselves or items that youth members created. We would like to thank our youth members who donated items and the buyers for your support of the NRCHyA!
The national youth meeting is conducted at the show to elect new officers, present business and unify the youth as a whole. The 2020 NRCHyA President Tucker Gillespie gave a recap of the past year and announced how the NRCHyA performed. In addition to the recap, new officers were elected for the 2021 year. Overall, the NRCHA Celebration of Champions was a fun, entertaining and action-packed event for everyone!
The silent auction brought funds and allowed NRCHyA members to show off their skills making Western-themed items.
Sire of o spring earning $30.5 Million, and already a $1 Million NRCHA Sire with current Reined Cow Horse o spring earning $1.5 Million
Congratulations to his NEWEST
NRCHA World Champion
SJR Smooth Lil Oak
NRCHA Open Hackamore World Champion
Scored 221 in the Rein Work
Scored 227 in the Cow Work
Owner: Janie Dvorak-Compton
Rider: Kyle Noyce
Breeder: San Juan Ranch
•LTE $500,037.41
•Sire of o spring earning $30.5 Million
•NCHA Horse of the Year
•NCHA Hall of Fame Horse
•The ONLY NCHA Horse of the Year to sire 2 NCHA Open Horses of the Year
•Sire of 15 NCHA World Champions
•Sire of 10 AQHA World Champions
•Sire of 2 NRCHA World Champions
•Sire of 71 o spring earning in excess of $100,000
•His foals average earnings of $24,427
Book now to secure your 2021 breeding reservations at the COVID-19 Discounted Fee of $2500. No limit per customer.
ALL AROUND THE FROZEN WORLD
Check out these moments caught during the 2021 Celebration of Champions.
The temperatures dropped to below freezing for multiple days, but the cow horse action was hot in Fort Worth, Texas. Our community pulled together to lend a hand to its fellow competitors who had challenges in the weather.
NRCHA members Kenneth Schueller and Jen Fjelstad married on the arena floor. The weather derailed their original plan to marry in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Arkansas trainer Jeremy Cox officiated.
With the winter weather limiting outdoor activities, the NRCHA youth joined together to create crafts inside. Chelsea Edsall provided the activities, which kids and parents alike appreciated.
Tucker Gillespie once again coordinated the NRCHyA youth to bring canned goods for a food drive for the Fort Worth HOPE Center, which helps people living in low-income communities. Uncle Ben’s Originals matched food donations, and nearly 700 pounds of food was donated.
The finals of the DT Horses and Hashtags World’s Greatest Horseman and the clean-slate cow run to complete the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman saw 1,900 people fill in the COVID-limited Will Rogers Coliseum. NRCHA Million Dollar Rider Jake Telford (left) gave insight to viewers at home, and the folks in the Coliseum heard Doug Mathis, while Cowboy Channel commentator Kadee Coffman joined the two for a pre-awards wrap-up.
First Foal Crop Hits the Market
Mares
Produce Earnings
Lte $485,293
Hiss My Grits • 2019 Mare
BEHIND THE BUCKLE
Compiled by Kate Bradley Byars
Morgan Holmes excels in the roping and reined cow horse arenas, achieving her goals one run at a time.
For Non Pro Morgan Holmes, a well-trained cow horse is not only valuable in the show pen, but also in nearly all aspects of competition. In 2020, Holmes, who now resides in Stephenville, Texas, rode her cow horse, Dun It On Que, to one of the most special roping wins of her career—the No. 14 roping at the World Series of Team Roping held in Memphis, Tennessee, the week after the inaugural 2020 National Reined Cow Horse Association Dom Conicelli Memorial Eastern Derby.
“I won second in the [Non Pro] two rein at the Eastern Derby, then I won this buckle the next weekend,” Holmes said. “He is a phenomenal horse. It was really special to me to earn that win.”
When Holmes purchased Dun It On Que (Dun It Big x Que Uno x Smart Little Uno), aka ‘Nine,’ the horse had been team penning. She started to show the 2007 gelding in cow horse when the call came for him to step into the roping box.
“I had a super head horse I called ‘Kit Kat’ that pulled a shoe when I was at a team roping, so I said to ‘Nine’, ‘You have to step up!’” Holmes recalled. “I had never headed a steer on him but he took to it. He’s just a broke, good horse after showing cow horse. I hope I can top this buckle, but it’s so special to me that it would be hard.”
NRCHA & EVENT SPONSORS
KNOW THE PRO
Interview and photography by Ross
Hecox
Even though he grew up in Michigan, Ben Baldus began living the Western lifestyle early in life.
“I wore my cowboy boots and shorts every day,” he said, laughing at his boyhood fashion statement. “I loved watching John Wayne movies and all the Westerns. I liked working with horses and dogs and all kinds of animals. I wanted to grow up and be a cowboy. I dreamed about that.”
Baldus began training and showing horses at age 12, and after high school he worked for Christian evangelist Lew Sterrit and his traveling, equine-based ministry, Sermon on the Mount. At age 20, his dreams of the cowboy life essentially came true when he hired on with the historic Waggoner Ranch near Electra, Texas. Doug Milholland, a member of the National Reining Horse Association Hall of Fame who was head trainer for the Waggoner horse program, had offered Baldus a job as his assistant.
“I threw everything I owned in my 1995 Buick and drove to Texas,” Baldus said. “I loved it. I worked under Doug for about six years, and he taught me so much about reining and how to build a performance horse.”
When Milholland left the Waggoner Ranch, Baldus took over as head trainer. While there, he earned an American Quarter Horse Association World
Championship in versatility ranch horse on My Boots Are Tuff (Woody Be Tuff x Smoke My Boots x Doc O Boots). In 2016, he and his wife, Cameron, whom he had met while working for the Waggoner, established their own business in Bowie, Texas, before moving in 2021 to their current home in Gainesville, Texas.
In the early days, they focused on training horses for ranch versatility and reined cow horse, as well as teaching horsemanship clinics. Baldus said venturing into the reined cow horse industry felt natural.
“Reined cow horses really fit my personality,” he said. “And the trainers and people who are in and around the
Ben Baldus lives his early childhood cowboy dreams on a daily basis training reined cow horses in Texas.
Ben Baldus and his wife, Cameron, live and work from their facility in Gainesville, Texas.
cow horse are fun to compete with. Everyone is super helpful. Tons of guys have stopped to help me, give me pointers and show me what to do. The more I competed in reined cow horse, the more I loved it.”
Last year was a breakout year for Baldus. Riding Playin Motown (Mr Playinstylish x Mo Flo x Peponita Flo), he advanced to the final round of the DT Horses/ Hashtags-sponsored World’s Greatest Horseman competition for the first time and finished tied for fourth. At the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, he made his debut in the Open finals on Teles Were Dreamin (Meteles Cat x Reys Dreamgirl x Dual Rey) and Pow Pow Pepto (Peptoboonsmal x Shiners Pretty Woman x Shining Spark), finishing tied for 10th and 21st, respectively.
“Competing in the finals with guys who have been heroes to me, it’s like, ‘Wow, this is cool,’ ” Baldus said. “It’s one of those moments that you dream about.”
AQReined Cow Horse News: What is a valuable piece of advice you’ve received from a mentor?
Doug Milholland told me that five minutes of angry training will take five days to fix. That has stuck with me. Boyd Rice is very quotable too, with his one-liners. I was working horses at his place and was wanting to use my hands to make my horse turn. He said, “Your hands don’t make it turn. Your feet move its feet.” Chris Dawson said, “Wiggle your toes before you show.” Not sure about that one. I still don’t think I can wiggle my pinky toes, but that’s okay.
Has your reining background helped you in showing cow horses?
I think in the reined cow horse, the part that is most controllable is the reining. That’s the part where there’s no cow involved. So you want to be able to put up a big score there. When it comes to getting a high composite score in the finals, if your horse can rein to a 220 or better, it will help carry you. I feel comfortable in being able to get my horses really broke and being able to put up a good score.
You coach quite a few Non Pro competitors. What is the biggest benefit of helping them?
It’s rewarding to watch someone grow in their horsemanship, whether that’s in a clinic, on a once-a-month basis, or having a Non Pro that can come once a week and ride their horse. I feel like, as a professional, it’s giving back to the industry, to coach and pass that knowledge along. I enjoy teaching, and it comes easy for me, so I might as well do it.
What values guide you most in your profession?
My belief in God and my Christian faith helps guide my business, my life and my marriage with Cameron. It helps focus those things. And through [those principles] you operate with honesty and integrity and what’s best for the horse. You’re trying to be less selfish and think about what’s best for everybody. Whether it’s the showing, working with assistants or working with customers, you want to always go into those situations thinking about how you can make it a win-win for everybody.
What do you think it a key aspect in continuing the growth of NRCHA? I think the core of the reined cow horse is the fence work, and that’s an opportunity to watch a gladiator-style horse show. It is man and horse working as a team to conquer this cow. We all like watching the fence work. It’s wild and wooly. Anything can happen. You don’t know who’s going to win until the fence work is completely over.
Also, I think as an association NRCHA has continued to have great leaders who continue to push forward for more growth. A lot of the people in leadership have been very giving of their time. The association is welcoming and accepting of new people and new ideas for the future.
with NRCHAPro Ben Baldus
NOTABLE NON PRO
Oregon’s Christine Swanson forces herself to stretch and grow on a horse—even when she’s afraid.
By Larri Jo Starkey
In the practice pen, trainer Trent Pedersen sits atop a horse, pulls off his ballcap and runs his hand through his hair. He looks at his Non Pro client.
“I don’t know what more to tell you,” he said to her, half laughing, half exasperated. “You’re going to give me gray hair.”
“I came to this late in life,” she responded. “It’s not as intuitive as you think it is.”
And they both laughed.
Because Non Pro Christine Swanson of West Linn, Oregon, did come to cow horse late, at age 55, to be exact.
“The reason I got into horseback riding was because of my fear of horses,” Swanson said. “I was totally afraid of horses and I have three kids, and I thought, you know what, Chris, you need to buck up here. Just go try it and if you like it, that’s fine, and if you don’t, then you’ve successfully ruled out something you don’t need to spend time on.
“You need to keep stretching and growing. The day you stop, is the day you get old.”
STARTING THE JOURNEY
A friend had invited Swanson for a guest ride when she made the decision to face her fears. After a few rides, she
decided to find a trainer, finally landing on Pedersen many years later.
At first, she competed in reining.
“I was super scared [at my first show],” she said. “I rode around and I walked ‘in traffic’ because people were warming up. I remember I thought, ‘You know what? I’ll just enter. Why not?’ ”
So she did, winning a beginning buckle at the Oregon Quarter Horse Association show despite her fears.
“I won the buckle and I thought, ‘OK, well, hello. This is gonna be fun,’ ” recalled Swanson.
And it was.
Years passed, and the next stop on the journey was finding the right horse and trainer. Too bold a horse would have frightened her more. Too timid a horse wouldn’t have kept her safe. She went through a few horses before landing on Very Smart Karat (Very Smart Remedy x Karats Oak x Docs Oak).
“I first looked at the horse, and Trent said, ‘I want you to try that one,’ and I said, ‘Nuh-uh. No,” she said. “I don’t think so.”
She told Trent that she was scared of “Pancake,” but she agreed to try him for a while.
“One step at a time, we started making progress,” Swanson said. “He is now my forever guy. He’s a good buddy. He
COURTESY OF CHRISTINE SWANSON
Christine Swanson conquered her initial fear of horses to become a regular cow horse competitor.
Pancake has also helped Swanson develop as a rider, Pedersen said.
“He’s been good for her,” he said. “He’s safe but she has to ride good to get him to perform good.”
It helps, Pedersen said, that Swanson rides well because she’s athletic and regimented about her health.
“The goals I set for myself are how can I get better doing what I can do to the best of my ability,” she said. “I try to do something – or more of something – every morning. I do 500 situps a day. I’ll do 100 pushups a day. My goal this year is I’m going to add more pushups.
“I walk my dogs 5 miles a day. Often, I’ll jump on the elliptical and do another 5 miles. I like to keep pushing myself. Every day you work out or do something, it’s like making a deposit in your health bank.”
As Swanson’s interest in horses grew, she convinced her husband, Neil, a Mohs surgeon, that he should spend his takes care of me. I like his personality. I like his demeanor. Sometimes I get a little frustrated with him. He’s also a very cautious horse. He’s a little timid, as am I. He probably reads that off me. He’s a sweetheart. He’s a nuzzler. He loves hugs and kisses.”
One day, when tacking up Pancake, Swanson impulsively hugged his head.
“That horse just all of a sudden— you could hear a release— a whoosh,” Swanson said.
It became a routine for the duo, one Swanson drives about an hour each way to enjoy nearly every day along with her regular ride.
“He’s my fifth horse and head and shoulders above anything else I’ve owned,” she said. “We’ve done pretty good for what we do. I do boxing. I do reining. We’re learning as we go. He does take care of me and I appreciate that.”
hours out of surgery horseback. Now, Neil enjoys ranch riding himself after retiring from cow work.
Despite her fear every time she goes into the arena to face a cow, Swanson remains committed to reined cow horse and to becoming better. She received an invitation to the 2021 National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions and called the office to find out how it happened.
“Barbara was so funny,” Swanson said of Barbara Nahlik, NRCHA member coordinator. “She said, ‘Well, you must have gotten enough points.’ I don’t ever check my points! The money is not an incentive to me. I don’t really care about that. What I care about is I go out with the hope and intention of doing the best job I can and trying to remember one or two things Trent tells me. I don’t focus on the intention of winning. My mindset is what can I work on to do better.”
Aboard Very Smart Karat, Swanson’s success rate skyrocketed in the arena.
Before a run, Swanson and “Pancake” share a hug, a routine that calms both down before their show-pen performance.
Swanson has definitely gotten better, Pedersen said, learning to keep showing even when things in the pen don’t go according to plan.
“Nothing has been easy for her,” Pedersen said. “She’s making me get more organized. I’m trying to teach her that sometimes she has to go by the seat of her pants.”
GIVING BACK
Soon after becoming part of the horse community in Oregon, Swanson, an intimidatingly organized woman, was recruited to serve on the board of the Oregon Quarter Horse Association.
The request didn’t come out of nowhere. Although she was still green to horses, volunteer work is her passion – plus she managed to keep three children and all their activities
organized in a color-coded planner.
“Since 1983, I’ve sat on about 150 different volunteer committees,” Swanson said. “I’ve probably been in a leadership role in at least 50 of those. I did work a lot with the community through the Junior League. To my knowledge, I’m one of a handful of women who have been president of two different Junior Leagues , in two different cities.”
She could, in fact, run a meeting and run it well.
“You’ve gotta jump in and give back,” she said. “We get so much, and you’ve got to pay it forward. You have to role model it for your kids. I think it’s important.”
Swanson served three terms as OQHA president, and during that time, she and veteran horse show manager
Keri Croft set up a charitable 501(c) (3) foundation so OQHA can award scholarships.
“Back then, we started the executive committee and started doing a master calendar,” Swanson said modestly. “They just needed somebody to come in, and it wasn’t that I was special, just that I had a different set of eyes. I saw things very differently. The club was good to me. It still is. We need to keep this going for the next person and for the kids.”
Her passion for cow horse and the people involved in it remains constant.
“You’ve got to put yourself out there,” Swanson said. “If you don’t, what are you telling your kids? You can’t give up. I’m going to keep going as long as I can and the Lord gives me the health to do it.”
MEET HANNES WINKLER
Austrian Hannes Winkler got hooked on cow horses during a U.S.-based clinic and now regularly competes across Europe.
By Katie Navarra
How are Swarovski Crystals, The Sound of Music and the James Bond Adventure World on Gaislachkogel Mountain connected to reined cow horses? They are all located in Tirol, Austria, where Non Pro rider and reined cow horse owner Hannes Winkler lives. Nestled in the western part of the country, near northern Italy, the mountainous terrain holds peaks that soar 9,800 feet above sea level. It is one of the most popular holiday regions in Europe, known internationally for its skiing and summer activities.
“We are surrounded by mountains but lucky enough to have some flat areas for our barns and arena. The pastures are a mixture of flat grounds and hills,” Winkler said.
Winkler has been riding horses nearly all his life. His parents bought him a pony when he was 6 years old. The contemptible pony stallion embodied all of the stereotypical behaviors associated with the description, but it didn’t deter the budding horseman’s interest. He rode on and off throughout high school and early adulthood, participating in team and cattle penning events.
In 2010, Winkler attended an Al Dunning Master Clinic at Dunning’s Almosta Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona. During the clinic, Winkler learned about reined cow horses. The speed
and the combination of the three disciplines were thrilling.
“It was a lot of fun and everyone was very forgiving with the poor Austrian,” Winker said, laughing. “The fact that you give your horse a good reason to stop and turn drew me to the discipline, too.”
In 2012 and 2013, Dunning helped Winkler find his first two cow horses:
Through the European Reined Cow Horse Association,
PRF One Time Thunder (One Time Pepto x PRF Shesa Sterling x Bob Acre Doc) and Cattin Downtown (Smooth As A Cat x Zacks Fifth Avenue x Zack T Wood). The yearlings were started by Jade Keller, then trained and shown by Shadd Parkinson, a National Reined Cow Horse Association trainer based just north of Scottsdale. Winkler brought both horses to his family’s European training facility in 2016 and 2017, respectively, and competed across Europe with them.
“I have bought and sold several horses in the U.S. to be trained and shown by Shadd since then,” Winkler said. “We bought a 2-year-old at the [NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sale®] in Fort Worth in 2020 and hope to show him this year at the futurity.”
Before the coronavirus pandemic, Winkler traveled to the U.S. three to five times each year to ride with Parkinson.
Hannes Winkler is able to pursue his passion of showing reined cow horses.
Usually, each visit lasts a week, and he has shown a few times though he points out that it’s challenging to fly over, ride a horse for a few days and enter a show.
“Maybe we will spend more time in the U.S. in the future. That would give me a better chance to compete there,” he said. “Every time I traveled to the U.S. to train I had the feeling I was starting from scratch. You learn a tremendous amount from a well-trained horse.”
Though he says he hasn’t experienced success on the U.S. show circuit yet, he has excelled at home. The European Reined Cow Horse Association, an international affiliate, organizes a competition schedule similar to the show season planned by the NRCHA. ERCHA, like NRCHA, hosts five major annual events—the Stakes, Derby, Hackamore Classic, Futurity and Bridle Spectacular, as well as several smaller weekend shows.
In 2018, he won one of the largest European Shows—the German Open. Not only was it rewarding to finish at the top, but Austrians also love to beat the Germans so the title continued the rivalry, he explained. The next year he won the two rein European
Championship in 2019 at Americana, which is the biggest show in Europe. To date, Winkler has nearly $1,000 in lifetime earnings.
“What makes me most proud is that I have the feeling that, albeit very, very slowly, I am becoming a better horseman with very big thanks to Al Dunning and Shadd Parkinson,” he said.
Surrounded by picturesque mountains, Winkler’s family owns training facilities on their small ranch and they also keep six to eight horses. The pastures are a mixture of flat grounds and hills. His wife, Kate, also enjoys riding as does their daughter, Isabelle.
“We were very lucky to buy our ranch in 2001. Lucky because it’s in a beautiful spot and right next to the ski slopes,” he said.
Winkler has two favorite horses: Cattin Downtown, because he is the “perfect show horse,” and PRF One Time Thunder, because he was the first cow horse he brought to Europe. He describes the horse as fun to show, take on a trail ride, and generally just great company. Cattle to practice with is a universal challenge for cow horse enthusiasts around the world. However, the structure of Austrian farms is different from the U.S., complicating access
to cows. Working with nearby farmers, he has found cattle to rent.
The family works in the tourism industry and has shareholdings in two ski resorts. The resorts are part of Skiwelt, which is one of the biggest ski areas in Europe. It features two hotels and about 600 beds to house skiers from across Europe and around the world.
“I have been skiing as long as I can think and did competitive hang gliding. When we go on holiday, we all love scuba diving,” he said.
Like in the U.S., the coronavirus pandemic canceled the early part of the show season, but competitions resumed in June. Austria has continued with stricter social distancing guidelines interrupting much of Winkler’s routine. At press time, the country was still closed to recreational tourism and was in lockdown mode that included takeout- or delivery-only services for restaurants and bars. He’s looking forward to a better 2021 with opportunities to reconnect and enjoy time with fellow riders.
“I’m looking forward to having a draft beer—all our bars have been closed since forever—and more, to being able to show and travel to meet my horse friends,” he said.
Winkler, his wife, Kate, and their daughter, Isabelle, all enjoy riding.
Living in the Austrian mountains allows for easy access to winter sports, like skiing, which is a favorite pastime for the Winkler family.
Congratulations to these NRCHA World Show & Celebration of Champions Performers!
Transported
BETTER BAMACAT
Amateur Derby Reserve Champion
Non-Pro Derby – 7th
Int. Non-Pro Derby – 5th
Novice Non-Pro Derby – 4th
Owned by Kenneth J. Schueller Shown by Addison D. Fjelstad Bred
– 3rd
4/5th
$1,000
Transported Cooled & Frozen Semen Available Owned by Burnett Ranches, LLC
OUTSTANDING PLAYBOY
World Limited Open Hackamore – 8th
Cattle
Limited Open Derby Co-Reserve Champion & Int. Open Derby – 7/9th
by Diane M. Clare • Shown by Jeb P. Stoltzfus Bred by Garrett Johnson
(Playboys Buck Fever - Natural Ingredient, by Peppy San Badger)
FACES OF THE NRCHA
Falling back on her experience producing horse shows of all sizes, Emily Konkel takes on her new role as the NRCHA’s premier event manager.
Growing up in rural New Boston, Michigan, Emily Konkel didn’t know that a job with horses existed outside of training the equine animals that fascinated her. Though her family had not been involved in horses before her interest was sparked, Konkel’s love of horses launched them into the horse show world.
“My best friend in preschool had horses so I was hooked at 5 years old,” she recalled. “I was the first in my family to have anything to do with horses and have always had a passion for it. I mainly showed Quarter Horses growing up, Half-Arabs and all-around events. In high school at Huron-New Boston High School, I was on our school equestrian team. We won the state [competition] my senior year.”
Her pursuit of riding traveled with Konkel to Michigan State University, in East Lansing, Michigan, where she competed on the stock seat equestrian team while focusing on her agricultural business degree. Upon graduation, she worked as a grain buyer.
“In Michigan, the horse industry is not near as big as it is down here. The only thing I thought I could be is a horse trainer,” Konkel said. “When I realized there were more jobs in the horse industry than only training horses, I started looking for something else.”
Working as a horse show producer in Oklahoma, both on contract for different associations and then for the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association, eventually led Konkel to being hired as the National Reined Cow Horse Association shows manager in June of 2018.
Today, she is the NRCHA premier events manager. Drawing on her experience in event production, from processing entries to assigning stalls and running results, Konkel is excited to take the next step with her involvement in reined cow horses.
Interview and photograph by Kate Bradley Byars
Reined Cow Horse News: How would you describe your role as premier events manager?
Emily Konkel: Prior to the show, I’ll handle the entries, stalls, draws and things like that. At the shows, we will have an office team in place and I’ll help manage that team, as well as look at booking for the next show. Future shows, I’ll look at facilities and booking to keep our events at the best locations we can find for our exhibitors.
RCHN: What was your first experience at a premier reined cow horse event?
Konkel: My first Snaffle Bit Futurity® was the first one I was working at in 2018 when Corey Cushing won. It was so big and so exciting! I get excited for every finals we have because it seems it is always bigger, always better and there is no ceiling to how great these competitors are.
RCHN: What do you love about your position with NRCHA?
Konkel: The people that are in cow horse are the best people there is and I’m happy to be part of it. I am happy that in my job I started in the show approvals first, because I’ve been able to see every aspect of a horse show when it comes to our cow horse events. I’m well-versed and had good groundwork in the events. With any change, there is always a learning curve, but we are on an upward trend. Everything will continue to run well and we have new faces, with new energy, and we are open to new ideas. It’s all good!
This win is sweet for Shane Steffen and Gunna Be A Smartie, owned by McSpyder Ranch, as they captured the coveted 2021 World’s Greatest Horseman Champion title.
CBy Kate Bradley Byars
by Primo Morales
HAMPION COMEBACK
Shane Steffen and Gunna Be A Smartie both overcame injury in order to compete at the World’s Greatest Horseman, making this title even sweeter than the ones the duo previously earned.
When Shane Steffen rides Gunna Be A Smartie, there is a certain graceful style that seems flawless with the pair. Steffen, of Powell Butte, Oregon, and the 2012 mare have been partnered for a long time, and that lengthy relationship helped both reach their full potential in the show pen to capture the most coveted titles, most recently the 2021 DT Horses and Hashtags World’s Greatest Horseman Champion held during the National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions.
With a composite of 894 (H:219/R:223/C:227/S:225), Steffen piloted the McSpyder Ranch-owned Gunna Be A Smartie (Very Smart Remedy x Gunna Be Mine x Gunna Smoke) to the $50,000 prize and the bragging rights. The black horse called “Val” is only the fourth mare to hold the World’s Greatest Horseman horse title. While Steffen and Val made it look easy on finals night in the Will Rogers Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas, the road to the win wasn’t without challenges.
The duo has notched multiple aged-event wins in two-rein and bridle classes, but both sustained injuries before their biggest event. Steffen was involved in a horse wreck that broke his ribs and collarbone, and punctured his lung. The mare was herself still in the recuperation stages of getting back to show shape.
A wrench that could have knocked this duo off the track turned out to be simply a hiccup on the road to a great comeback.
2021 NRCHA WORLD’S GREATEST HORSEMAN TOP 11
Fort Worth, Texas – February 13-22, 2020
Rider/Horse/Pedigree/Owner/Score (S-Steer Stopping)/Money
1. Shane Steffen; Gunna Be A Smartie; 12M (Very Smart Remedy x Gunna Be Mine x Gunna Smoke ); McSpyder Ranch; 894 (H:219/R:223/C:227/S:225); $50,000.
2. Jay McLaughlin; Shiney Outlaw; 12S (Shiners Nickle x Mereyda x Dual Rey); Michelle Cannon; 882 (H:212/ R:221/C:222/S:227); $35,000.
3. Shawn Hays; MoonshineAndTwoAdvil; 14G (Metallic Cat x Little Short Stuff x Shorty Lena); Angela Massey; 878.5 (H:219/R:220.5/C:217/S:222); $21,000.
4. Todd Crawford; Jerry Smoke; 13G (Dual R Smokin x Kool Arista Cat x Cats Merada); J Five Horse Ranch; 876 (H:216.5/R:217.5/C:221/S:221); $17,000.
5. Chris Dawson; CSR Lay Down Sally; 11M (Dual Spark x Look At Her Glo x CD O Cody); Meredith Graber; 873 (H:219/R:208.5/C:218.5/S:227); $14,500.
6. Jake Gorrell; Dual Chexx; 10G (Dual Rey x Starlight Chexx x Grays Starlight); James & Gay Ver Steeg; 872 (H:216.5/R:220/C:215.5/S:220); $11,000.
7. Abbie Phillips; Bed Head Cat; 10G (Wild Haired Cat x Isabellena x Quejanaisalena); David Burtenshaw; 867 (H:217/R:218/C:207/S:225); $10,000.
8. Luke Jones; Mr Comin In Hot; 15G (Mr Playinstylish x Lil Sally Cat x High Brow Cat); Kit & Charlie Moncrief; 865 (H:218.5/R:211/C:211.5/S:224); $9,000.
9. Zane Davis; Rubys Radar; 10S (One Time Pepto x Ruby Bagonia x Peppy San Badger); C Ranches Inc; 862.5 (H:220/R:218/C:202.5/S:222); $8,000.
10. John Swales; Cats Picasso; 12S (Metallic Cat x Playboys Vixen x Hickoryote); Coast Performance Horses; 660 (H:220.5/R:216/C:223.5/S:0); $7,000.
11. Gusti Buerger; Magicality;10S (Very Smart Remedy x Magical Lena x Little Lenas Legend); Joyce Pearson; 221 (H:221/R:0/C:0/S:0); $7,000.
Photos
“Last summer, in August, I had an accident on a horse,” said Steffen.” I was laid up for a few weeks but, overall, I was blessed with a quick recovery. To prepare this mare, I was blessed to have some friends and neighbors here to go [help me] rope. Tyler Moore is a good friend that was willing to tell me what he saw and I could work on getting my arm picked up for roping.
“After World’s Greatest a couple years ago, Val got hurt. She had a year off, too. Bringing her back, she was feeling good. I was really excited for us to go show down there.”
Steffen got Val in his program as a 3-year-old. She tripped in the fence work at the Snaffle Bit Futurity® to take the duo out of making the finals. Then, she was injured and didn’t show as a 4-year-old. However, as a 5-year-old in the hackamore, she qualified for the NRCHA World Show, winning the Open Hackamore against a tough field.
“When I won the hackamore world [championship] on her, that was the turning point of me having the confidence that she was something special,” Steffen said. “Shiney Outlaw had scored a record score at the Quarter Horse world and to run against him and beat him for the world in the hackamore, it was pretty exciting for me.
“After that, it seemed every time we went to the show pen she stepped up. If I trusted her and asked her for more, she gave me more. She’s outstanding that way. I’ve never had a horse that tried that hard and is that honest in the show pen.”
To ensure he was up to the challenge of showing “the princess” as the Steffen family calls Val, he worked hard on his roping. The main focus was to keep both of them mentally and physically fit for the show. In the preliminary reining, Steffen was disappointed in how he showed the mare to their 218.5, which placed them tied at 13th place.
Riding Michelle Cannon’s stallion, Shiney Outlaw, Jay McLaughlin made a run at the top spot. The talented duo finished reserve, earning $35,000.
///// MEET OUR SPONSORS
DT Horses joined forces with Hashtags yet again to present the 2021 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. The DT Horses facility is located outside of Scottsdale, Arizona, and produces award-winning roping horses, and the “DT” name is now well known in cow horse. In 2021, DT Horses also becomes the title sponsor of the newly renamed Western Derby, to be held in Scottsdale, Arizona, June 2-10, 2021.
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 résumé, and it included setting an Equi-Stat NCHA earnings record for the year of $473,635.
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 Hashtags, visit www.brazosvalleystallionstation. com.
“When I got [to the show], I was very overwhelmed in the prelims for the rein work [by] how many good horses and trainers were there,” Steffen admitted. “I didn’t feel like I got Val shown to her potential in the prelims. It frustrated me. I talked to my wife and to Brady Weaver about the mental game and running horses at that level. I just prayed about what I was doing and for the finals, God gave me a peace that I had a good horse. All I had to do was go out and do what I know she could do.”
Headed into the finals tied at seventh place, Steffen kept his focus on each event. He didn’t look at leaderboards or listen to other scores. The 219 in the herd work put the pair in a good place to start, and then their steer stopping run scored a 225, starting the night with a bang in
///// HIGH-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:
Chris Dawson and CSR Lay Down Sally – 223.5
With the high score of 223.5, Chris Dawson and 2011 mare
CSR Lay Down Sally (Dual Spark x Look At Her Glo x CD O Cody) took the top spot. Meredith Graber owns the mare.
STEER STOPPING:
Johns Swales and Cats
Picasso – 228
Riding Coast Performance
Horses’ 2012 stallion Cats
Picasso (Metallic Cat x Playboys
Vixen x Hickoryote), last year’s World Greatest Horseman
Champion John Swales aimed high in the steer stopping to mark a 228.
REIN WORK: Gusti Buerger and Magicality – 226
COW WORK: Gusti Buerger and Magicality – 224.5
Riding 2010 stallion Magicality (Very Smart Remedy x Magical Lena x Little Lenas Legend) for Anne Reynolds, for owner Joyce Pearson, Gusti Buerger took the top spot in two preliminaries with scorching runs that ignited to help fill up the arena.
HIGH-SCORE COWGIRL
The National Cowgirl Hall of Fame and Museum recognized the high-scoring female rider in the preliminary rounds with a custom Gist buckle. With a composite score of 887.5 (H:220.5/R:226/ C:224.5/S:216.5), Gusti Buerger received the award.
Laser focus kept Steffen and Gunna Be A Smartie in the hunt for the title.
the coliseum. A 223 score in the reining proved that Steffen was focused and Val was feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm for her efforts.
When the pair worked their cow owner Linda McMahon watched from her home in Oregon, and said it was like watching a perfect storm come together that night.
“It’s like buying a lottery ticket—you hope but do you ever expect to win,” she said. “This was an incredible run to watch, especially that finals fence run. It was beautiful to watch! Shane had that combination of forces that produce powerful results—horse, rider and cow! How serendipitous when they all come together. Being able to [watch them] compete and then win, it is icing on the cake.”
Aboard his trusted show partner, Steffen relished in knowing he and Val
were in sync and working to show off her talents.
“That mare stepped up and showed me what she could do. That is the beauty of Val! When I don’t push her, or push her as far as making things too difficult, when I slow myself down to let her execute, that is when she shines. She’s so cool. She gives more than I could ever ask,” he said.
“This mare got hurt and had a year off. I didn’t know if she would come back to be shown. To have that second chance and have her feel like she always does, and then to win on such a great mare, it is very humbling. Winning this [event] on her is just amazing; she deserves it. I am very thankful for it.”
The scores were big the entire night, and though Jay McLaughlin, of
“It’s like buying a lottery ticket—you hope but do you ever expect to win. This was an incredible run to watch, especially that finals fence run. It was beautiful to watch!”
Linda McMahon
Clarendon, Texas, and Shiney Outlaw (Shiners Nickle x Mereyda x Dual Rey) had a slight bobble to score a 212 in the herd work, the pair rallied the rest of the night. Their composite of 882 (H:212/R:221/C:222/S:227) was enough for reserve and earned $35,000 for owner Michelle Cannon.
But the princess reigned supreme on finals night. Steffen joked that the mare’s rank was probably elevated to queen after that win. He was also quick to thank those that helped him get to the show and his herd work help that enabled him to compete successfully—Nick Dowers, Chris Dawson, Brad Barkemeyer, Brady Weaver, Brad Lund, Lance Johnston and Cayley Wilson.
“Linda McMahon blessed me with an awesome mare to compete with and show, and trusts me with her,” Steffen said. “My wife helps me keep my head on straight, keeps everything together. My kids, they always support what we do and work so hard. There are a lot of people that keep things going on the ranch and when we are gone. There are so many people to thank in our community, and I just feel blessed.”
After he recognized the cow coming out of the gate for he and Val’s finals fence work, Steffen knew he could put together a solid run. When it was over, the Oregonian couldn’t help but celebrate.
G OAL, ACCOMPLISHED
By Kate Bradley Byars
Chasing down the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman title meant Cutter McLaughlin had to bring out his long-time partner, CD Dee Vee Dee.
In striking similarity to World’s Greatest Horseman
Shane Steffen’s path to his win, youth rider Cutter McLaughlin also connected on his third swing at the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman title. And this time, he hit it out of the park.
Aboard CD Dee Vee Dee (CD Lights x Shiners Missy Jay x Shining Spark), a 2005 gelding, the 17-year-old from Clarendon, Texas, checked the box on his biggest goal yet in his young riding career. Cutter and “DVD” have been a nearly unstoppable duo since pairing up in 2014. There are multiple American Quarter Horse Association and National Reined Cow Horse Association world titles to their shared résumé, but this title is the one that Cutter has chased the hardest.
“Since this [event] started, I wanted to win it—be the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman! I’ve been working toward it,” said Cutter. “The last three years it’s been so fun to show in it and do good. To have won it, is just an awesome feeling.”
For a youth rider to have earned more than $100,000, it takes a special horse to pair up with in the show pen. Cutter’s horse is DVD.
“He is older and for him to do all four events and be pretty consistent through them all is pretty cool,” he said. “Last couple of years I’ve shown a different horse and I ended up third. I decided since DVD is getting older, and I wanted to
Photographs by Primo Morales
(Rider/ Horse/Pedigree/Owner/Composite Score/Money)
1. Cutter McLaughlin; CD Dee Vee Dee (CD Lights x Shiners Missy Jay x Shining Spark); Jay & Wendy McLaughlin; 746.5; $2,445.
2. Trevor Hale; Seven S Crazy Horse (Hickorys Indian Pep x Seven S Babe x Seven S Zanaday); Terry Stuart Forst; 742; $1,956.
3-4. Kylie Haskins; Pepe Le Wright (Hes Wright On x Soula Jule Forever x Soula Jule Star); Kylie Haskins; 721.5; $1,320.30
3-4. Ali Norcutt; Soulas Hickory Star (Soula Jule Star x Turn Liz Loose x Docs Hickory); Darrel Norcutt; 721.5; $1,320.30.
5. James Trey Mitchell; SCR Crackin One Time (One Time Pepto x Smart Crackin Chic x Smart Chic Olena); Singleton Ranches; 720; $978.
6. Grace Gardiner; You May Be Wright (Hes Wright On x Sue C Shiner x Shining Spark); Garth & Amanda Gardiner; 714.5; $782.40.
7. Tyree Swales; CD Shiner (CD Olena x Shiners Little Oak x Shining Spark); Colleen Penner; 705.5; $586.80.
8. Regan Wheatley; Wright On Hickory (Hes Wright On x Hickorys Miracle x Docs Hickory); Bonnie & Scot Wheatley; 586; $391.20.
A high score of 150 in the herd work helped catapult Cutter McLaughlin and CD Dee Vee Dee to the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman Champion title.
to see how it goes. He can do all four events and he is fun.”
Placing third in 2020 riding DT Whiskey Shine (Paddys Irish Whiskey x Smart Shinealo x Smart Shiner) in the youth-focused, four-event competition was close but didn’t fulfill Cutter’s goals. In 2021, he entered on the horse he puts the most trust in, CD Dee Vee Dee.
Granted, the McLaughlins had semibenched the gelding, only showing him at larger shows to conserve the miles put on him. But there wasn’t any rust to knock off DVD’s horseshoes.
“It felt really good to have him with me,” said Cutter. “I knew that if I rode him right, drew a good cow and showed him right, that he would always do his job. If I do mine, he’ll do his and that is so great to know. Whether it is a fast cow in the herd or one that doesn’t head very good, I know he will get it done to turn the cow.”
Cutter’s parents, Jay and Wendy McLaughlin, purchased the horse for their son from owners Shannon and Hershel Reid, who at the time had the gelding with NRCHA professionals Todd Bergen, and his then-assistant Erin Taormino. Yet, Jay knew DVD from the horse’s younger days, when he trained and showed the sorrel horse for thenowner and breeder Carol Rose.
MEET MARS EQUESTRIAN™ /////
Forgenerations, MARS has celebrated a rich equestrian heritage, and through purposeful partnerships, MARS Equestrian™ is committed to the sport and building an enduring legacy. This is one reason why MARS Equestrian™, sponsored by MARS, Incorporated, is again the presenting sponsor of the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman in 2021. A jaw-dropping 26 entries vied for the final spots in this year’s event. There were eight that advanced to the clean-slate cow work finals after competing throughout the week.
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.
All of the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman entries, a record 28 riders.
“I don’t call on him too much, but I love to show him. This year, it will probably be the same. He loves to get on the trailer to go horse show.”
—Cutter McLaughlin
Jay put more than $70,000 in earnings on DVD before the horse sold to the Reids. After buying him back, Jay and Cutter amassed wins that brought the gelding’s earnings to more than $272,000 in multiple associations.
With the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman win, Cutter adds another $2,445, but the money wasn’t this rider’s motivation.
“The last year or two, we’ve been conserving him in the show pen and only taking him to the bigger shows,” Cutter explained. “I don’t call on him too much, but I love to show him. This year, it will probably be the same. He loves to get on the trailer to go horse show.”
In Fort Worth, the 16-year-old gelding helped Cutter to the high score in the herd work, a 150, and tied for the high cow work score in the preliminary round, marking a 149. Those scores helped Cutter make the clean-slate cow work finals that were held Saturday night during the DT Horses and Hashtags World’s Greatest Horseman finals. On his second cow, Cutter made the winning run on DVD, and did it to a raucous crowd.
The new greatest youth horse-and-rider team aren’t done in the show pen just yet, and though Cutter has a few other horses to compete on, DVD will still travel to horse shows. He loves getting to
///// ROY EDSALL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPAWARDED
The
The
third annual awarding of the Roy Edsall Memorial Award went to Shelby Walker, of San Luis Obispo, California. Shelby received a custom, trophy bit—handmade by Randy Paul—and a $3,000 scholarship. The bit was designed by Clayton Edsall and is presented in honor of his late brother, Roy.
recipient of this special award is recognized for sportsmanship, appreciation for his or her equine partner, as well as exceptional horsemanship. The Roy Edsall Memorial Award also includes a headstall from Martin Saddlery, a pair of Kimes Ranch jeans, a CRRanchwear shirt, a Platinum Performance gift certificate and 50 pounds of ground beef from Stuart Ranch.
With his father, Jay, cheering him on, Cutter McLaughlin circles up his cow to clinch the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman title.
MR STYLISH CAT LTE: $115,989
(Mr Playinstylish - Lil Sally Cat, by High Brow Cat)
NRCHA World Intermediate Non-Pro & Novice Non-Pro Bridle Champion; World High School Rodeo Challenge Jkpt Champion
Owned and Shown by Tylor Todd
MR FLETCH CAT LTE: $46,388
(Mr Playinstylish - Lil Fletch Cat, by Royal Fletch)
NRCHA World Open Two-Rein Reserve Champion
Owned by Sabrina Thomas Shown by Will Pennebaker
MR COMIN IN HOT LTE: $38,054
(Mr Playinstylish - Lil Sally Cat, by High Brow Cat) World’s Greatest Horseman Open Finalist
Owned by Kit & Charlie Moncrief
Shown by Luke Jones
PLAYIN WITH CHER
LTE: $36,753
(Mr Playinstylish - Bella Cher, by Peptoboonsmal)
NRCHA Celebration of Champions
Amateur - 4th & Novice Non-Pro Derby - 7/8th
Owned and Shown by William E. Lewis
WILDCATTER STYLE
(Mr Playinstylish - Lean N Stylish, by Docs Stylish Oak)
NRCHA Celebration of Champions
$7,500 Limited Open Derby - 9/10th
Owned by Stephanie Katherine Campbell
Shown by Justin Stanton
PEPPYS ROYAL OUTLAW
LTE: $82,865
(Royal Fletch - Peppys Tachita, by Peppy San Badger)
NRCHA World Intermediate Non-Pro Bridle Reserve Champion & Non-Pro Bridle - 6th
Owned by Desiree or Jeff Westfall
Shown by Nicole M. Westfall
PLAYIN MOTOWN LTE: $59,408
(Mr Playinstylish - Mo Flo, by Mr Peponita Flo) NRCHA World Open Bridle - 4th & Youth - 7th
Owned by Catelyn M. Walker
Shown by Ben Baldus & Catelyn M. Walker
PLAYINLIGHTSOUT
LTE: $51,403
(Royal Fletch - Lil Sally Cat, by High Brow Cat)
NRCHA World Open Bridle Finalist
Owned and Shown by Chad T. Blaisdell
(Jae Bar Fletch - Royal Blue Dually, by Dual Pep)
Earner of $235,852
NCHA Open Futurity Champion
FEE: $2,000
Transported Cooled & Frozen Semen Available
SCHRODER MEMORIAL SADDLE
WhenTexas-based horseman Robbie Schroeder passed away in December of 2020, he left a legacy of horsemanship behind that will live on through the riders he mentored and the friends he spent time with, as well as through the Robbie Schroeder Memorial saddle. The saddle, made by Jeff Smith’s Custom Saddlery, was
presented to the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman Steer Stopping Champion.
Trevor Hale, riding Seven S Crazy Horse, scored a 154 in the steer stopping, earning the first saddle for this memorial award. The Mary Francis Atkinson Trust and friends of Robbie’s made a 10-yeear commitment
to present the award. Many were on hand on Saturday, February 20, to present Trevor with the saddle, including Robbie’s son, Ryan Schroeder; his brother, Ronnie Schroeder; and Robbie’s wife, Jennifer Day Schroeder, and their families.
go on the trailer, Cutter said. He won’t be proving anything for Cutter, just allowing the young man to have fun showing his longtime partner.
“DVD is just a blessing and so phenomenal,” Cutter said. “He’s been great to me.”
Along with the title, Cutter’s composite score of 746.5 on four events won a custom saddle from Bob’s Custom Saddles and a CR Morrison trophy, both sponsored by MARS Equestrian™, a Gist Custom Buckle, a 50X custom hat from Shortys Caboy Hattery, a YETI cooler from the National High School Rodeo Association, and 25 pounds of UltraCruz Equine Advanced Gastric Support from San Juan Ranch/Santa Cruz Animal Health.
The Reserve Champion World’s Greatest Youth Horseman was Trevor Hale riding Terry Stuart’s Seven S Crazy Horse (Hickorys Indian Pep x Seven S Babe x Seven S Zanaday). The pair marked a composite of 742 to earn $1,956.
Trevor received the high score in the steer stopping on his way to reserve. In addition to a saddle awarded for that (see sidebar), Trevor won a Gist custom buckle, 10 pounds of UltraCruz Equine Advanced Join Supplement from San Juan Ranch/Santa Cruz Animal Health and a Les Vogt Classic Equine bit sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice.
All of the 28 entries in the MARS Equestrian™ World’s Greatest Youth Horseman received a commemorative number and Carroll Leather jacket from the title sponsor, as well as a Classic Equine-sponsored duffle bag. The highscoring run in the rein work was Tyree Swales, riding CD Shiner (CD Olena x Shiners Little Oak x Shining Spark), owned by Colleen Penner. Tying for high score in the cow work preliminary round was last year’s champion, Trail Townsend, aboard TRR Lucky Playgun (Pepcid x TRR Ms Lucky Gun x Playgun).
Tyree Swales and CD Shiner rode to the high score in the rein work preliminary.
Congratulations to Top Performers at
NRCHA World Show & Celebration of Champions
SADDLING AT SUNRISE
LTE: $29,183
(Sunshine Ingredient, by Mr Sun O Lena)
Celebration of Champions Derby Open – 3rd Derby Novice Horse Open Champion
Owned & Bred by Burnett Ranches, LLC • Shown by Boyd J. Rice
GRACEFUL SMART CAT
LTE: $31,259
(Gracielights, by CD Lights)
Celebration of Champions Derby Open – 5th
Owned & Bred by Wagonhound Land & Livestock LLC
Shown by Justin T. Wright
SR SASSY CAT
LTE: $27,062
(Travelin With Sass, by Travalena) World Show Hackamore Open Reserve Champion & Int. Open – 6/7th
Owned by Sassy Cat Syndicate • Shown by Lee C. Deacon
Bred by Stephen L. Roseberry
PRF PEPTOS SMART CAT
LTE: $54,002
(Wild Francine, by Peptoboonsmal)
Celebration of Champions Derby Intermediate Open Finalist
Owned by Tori G. Simons • Shown by Jared Jones Bred by Peter W. De Leeuw
ANNIES SMART CAT
LTE: $42,455
(Shiney Nu Annie, by Shining Spark)
World Show Hackamore Open – 6/7th
Owned by Rocking Bs Ranch • Shown by Lance B. Johnston
Bred by Wagonhound Land & Livestock LLC
FRAT CAT
WR THIS CATS SPORTY
(Sniney N Sporty, by Shining Spark)
World Show Two-Rein Non-Pro Reserve Champion; World Show Youth – 6th
Owned by Jay & Wendy McLaughlin
Shown by Cutter W. McLaughlin • Bred by Salt Fork Cattle Co.
BK SPARK OF GENIUS
LTE: $23,464
(Ms Shining Spark, by Shining Spark)
World Show Hacakmore Limited Open – 4th
Owned by Teryl Vandooren & Kevin Ellis Shown by Marcha Duvenage • Bred by Karen Blake
THIS SENORITAS SMART
(TAMU A Dualin Reina, by Aggies Twelfth Man) Celebration of Champions Derby Int. Non-Pro Co-Reserve Champion, Novice Non-Pro Co-Reserve Champion & Non-Pro – 4/5th
Owned and Shown by Catelyn M. Walker
Bred by TAMU Dept of Animal Science
(Shiney Senorita, by Shining Spark) Celebration of Champions Derby Amateur – 5th
Owned and Shown by Wendy Kuhn Bred by Garth and/or Amanda Gardiner
SMOKIN
SMART CAT
LTE: $74,372
(Shes Smokes Smart, by Senors Lil Brudder) World Show Int. Open – 5/6th & Open Bridle Finalist
Owned by David & Barbara Archer • Shown by Lyn Anderson Bred by David & Barbara Archer
WHEELING KINDA KITTY
(Wheeling Kinda Girl, by Wheeling Peppy) World Show Youth Limited – 9th
Owned by Jeannie J. Allen • Shown by Caden Allen Bred by Nancy Bimson
CAT WALKS INTO A BAR
LTE: $25,409
(Sue C Shiner, by Shining Spark) World Youth – 5th & Youth Limited – 11th
Fee: $3,500 + Chute Fee
Transported
Owned by Landri Lisac • Shown by Lannie-Jo Lisac & Landri Lisac Bred by Garth and/or Amanda Gardiner
SADDLING AT SUNRISE
SR SASSY CAT
WR THIS CATS SPORTY
NATIONAL REINED COW HORSE ASSOCIATION
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.
PulseVet’s technology is the trusted source in regenerative veterinary medicine for veterinary partners across the globe. As the authority on shockwave, PulseVet provides only clinically tested and proven solutions and understands the importance of bringing on the best products and services to the industry. PulseVet is uncompromising when the health of animals is at stake. For more information visit www.pulsevet.com.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
OP OF THE WORLD T
Compiled by Kate Bradley Byars • Photography by Primo Morales
In frigid Fort Worth, Texas, 15 competitors took home world champion crowns from the 2021 Celebration of Champions.
For 10 days in February, hundreds of National Reined Cow Horse Association members from across the United States and from Canada vied for their shot at a world championship event final. It was the culmination of years of work, showseason challenges and thousands of miles traveled.
When the dust settled in John Justin Arena, all of the hard work put in during the 2020 show year brought one horse- and-rider team a new title at the 2021 Celebration of Champions. Fifteen different Open and Non Pro world champions went home with a slew of prizes, and capped off a successful year. Finals judges were Jeff Allen, Chris Benedict, Tom Buckingham, Bozo Rogers and Todd Williamson. Here are your 2020 NRCHA World and Reserve World Champion horse and rider pairs.
*a full awards list is located on page 102.
OPEN BRIDLE & INTERMEDIATE OPEN BRIDLE
CHAMPION
Its Time To Smokum (One Time Pepto x Smokum Chicy x Smart Chic Olena) and Mark Sigler took the World Champion title for the Dominic L. Conicelli Estate with a 444.5 (R:224/C:220.5). The win earned $9,492. For the Intermediate Open Bridle win, which was awarded concurrently with the Open Bridle preliminaries, Sigler and the red-roan stallion marked a 298 (R:147/C:151), earning an additional $1,620.
OPEN BRIDLE RESERVE CHAMPION
Peptos Smart Cookie (Cookin Merada x Uvaldes Cow Smart x Peptosmart), a 2014 stallion, and Oregon trainer Shane Steffen rode to reserve with a 441.5 (R:218.5/C:223), earning owner Finally Farm Paints $7,458.
INTERMEDIATE OPEN BRIDLE RESERVE CHAMPION (TIE)
Splitting reserve titles and each earning $1,134 were Clint Swales riding Shawna Wolfe’s 2012 stallion Lets Go Higher (High Sign Nugget x Ima Little Prescript x Ima Little Lena (ApHC), and Christian Lybbert riding Patricia Wilmoth’s 2014 stallion Metallic Snowflakes (Metallic Cat x SmartLittleSnowflake x Smart Little Lena), each marking a 296.5.
LIMITED OPEN BRIDLE
NON PRO BRIDLE
CHAMPION
Bob Grant of Camp Verde, Arizona, rode 2012 gelding Caymus Pepto (Peptoboonsmal x Bet On Merada x Bet On Me 498), owned by Cynthia Baker, to the title with a composite of 435 (R:215/C:22) and $3,824.80. Grant rode the top three placing horses in the finals event.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Aboard 2010 mare PaddysStarlightChic (Self Shine x RN Starlights Chic x Smart Chic Olena), Bob Grant took swept the top spots. Owned by Jeffrey or Lynne Heyer, the horse’s 431.5 (R:212.5/C:219) garnered $3,005.20.
CHAMPION
Sareece Brown of Franklin, Tennessee, advanced to the finals in the top spot and remained there to earn the win riding Nee On Lights (CD Lights x Shine Smartly x Shining Spark), owned by her Yellow Creek Ranch, to a 442.5 (R:218/C:224.5) and a $5,028 check.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Amy Bailey of Sparta, Tennessee, rode Electra Tuff (Woody Be Tuff x Electras Boots x Doc O Boots), co-owned with her husband, Paul, to a 438.5 (R:218/C:220.5) for reserve and $4,022.40.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BRIDLE & NOVICE NON PRO BRIDLE
OPEN HACKAMORE
CHAMPION
Kansas competitor Tylor Todd piloted her 2011 gelding Mr Stylish Cat (Mr Playinstylish x Lil Sally Cat x High Brow Cat) to a 444.5 (R:219/C:225) and an 8.5-point win in the Novice Non Pro Bridle, earning $3,460.
On Sunday, February 14, the duo earned a second World Champion title in the Intermediate Non Pro Bridle, marking a 436 (R:214/C:222) for the win and another $3,270.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BRIDLE RESERVE CHAMPION
Nicole Westfall rode Peppys Royal Outlaw (Royal Fletch x Peppys Tachita x Peppy San Badger), a 2006 gelding owned by Desiree or Jeff Westfall, to a 431.5 (R:214/C:217.5) for the win and $2,616.
NOVICE NON PRO BRIDLE RESERVE CHAMPION (TIE)
With a score of 436, Douglas Allan McDaniel Jr. and Elizabeth Clymer tied for the reserve spot. Riding 2011 mare CR Tuffs Magic Tonic (Woody Be Tuff x Miss Oak Tonic x Little Peppy Oak), Douglas McDaniel marked a 215.5 in the cow work, and Elizabeth Clymer marked a 220 on Mister Dual Pepinic (Mister Dual Pep x Colonel Pepinic x Smart Little Pepinic), a 2009 gelding, each earning $2,508.50.
CHAMPION
SJR Smooth Lil Oak (Smooth As ACat x Shiners Little Oak x Shining Spark), ridden by Kyle Noyce of Blanchard, Oklahoma, for owner Jamie Dvorak-Compton, took the win with a score of 448 (R:221/C:227), earning $10,420.
RESERVE CHAMPION
SR Sassy Cat (WR This Cats Smart x Travelin With Sass x Travalena), a 2015 mare owned by the Sassy Cat Syndicate and ridden by Lee Deacon, earned the reserve spot with a 446.5 (R:219.5/C:227), taking home $8,336.
LIMITED OPEN HACKAMORE
NON PRO HACKAMORE
CHAMPION
Liam A . Macneill piloted his 2015 gelding BehindChicNWire (Travelin Jonez x Montanas Enterpriz x Mister Montana Nic) to the win with a 439.5 (R:218.5/C:221), earning $3,730 and the title.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Move That Rock (That CD Rocks x Smokums Dual Move x Mister Dual Pep), a 2016 gelding owned by Debbie Proctor, and trainer Cara Hencratt rode to reserve with a 430 (R:218.5/C:211.5), earning $2,984.
CHAMPION
Addison Fjelstad of Scales Mound, Illinois, rode her 2016 gelding Peppy Reyn (Reynshine x Blondies Peppy Grace x Dual Peppy) to a composite of 434 (R:214.5/C:219.5) to earn $4,400 and the title.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Daniel Heath piloted 2015 stallion Smokum Every Time (One Time Pepto x Smokums Dream x Smokums Prize), co-owned with his wife, Toni Hagen Heath, to a 429 (R:218/C:211.5) for reserve and $3,520.
MARTIN PERFORMANCE
COWHORSE
OPEN TWO REIN
NON PRO TWO REIN
CHAMPION
Still Get Jealous (One Time Pepto x ARC Cat Her Please x Chic Please), ridden by Nick Dowers, of Dyer, Nevada, took the win for owner Trigg Marquiss. The 2013 stallion earned $5,964.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Will Pennebaker rode Mr Fletch Cat (Mr Playinstylish x Lil Fletch Cat x Royal Fletch) to a score of 437 (R:219/C:218). The 2013 gelding, owned by Sabrina Thomas, earned $4,686 for reserve champion.
CHAMPION
Katy Thomison rode 2014 gelding Betcha Like That (Bet Hesa Cat x Girl Like That x Playgun) to the championship with a 436 (R:216/C:220), earning $3,450.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Aboard 2012 gelding WR This Cats Sporty (WR This Cats Smart x Shiney N Sporty x Shining Spark), Cutter McLaughlin piloted to a 435 (R:216.5/C:218.5), earning $2,760 for his parents, owners Jay and Wendy McLaughlin.
$5,000 NON PRO LIMITED
CHAMPION
Chelsea Edsall captured her first world champion win aboard Skeets Oak Peppy (Skeets Peppy x Oak Ill Be x Ill Be Smart) with a 440.5 (R:217.5/C:223), earning $4,055. The 2007 gelding, owned by Chelsea’s husband, Clayton Edsall, is a past World’s Greatest Horseman champion horse.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Mark Buckley rode One Time Safari (One Time Royalty x Dualin Safari x Playin Safari), a 2013 gelding owned by Kellie Noelle Buckley, to reserve with a 433 (R:218/C:215), earning $3,244.
CHAMPION
Pennsylvanian Erin Keys piloted her 2015 mare ShesShootinForGold (PRF Spoonful Of Gold x Gunners Easter Lily x Colonels Smoking Gun) to a 437.5 (R:218.5/C:219) to capture the world champion win and earn $3,295.
$1,000 NON PRO LIMITED CHAMPION
YOUTH FENCE
$1,000 NON PRO LIMITED CHAMPION & $5,000 NON PRO LIMITED RESERVE CHAMPION
Riding her 2015 gelding Starlight Driver (Hydrive Cat x Starlights Lynn x ), Kelsey Delaplaine scored a 439.5 (R:217.5/C:222) to take the win. Nine-and-a-half points separated the champion and reserve, and Delaplaine earned $2,190 for the win.
In the $5,000 Non Pro Limited, Delaplaine scored a 435.5 (R:217/C:218.5) to earn the reserve title and $2,636.
$1,000 NON PRO LIMITED RESERVE CHAMPION
With a 430 (R:213.5/C:216.5), Heather Greeson rode to reserve on Toys Jerry Maxi (Smart Little Jerry x Maxis Yellow Hair x ) and earned $1,642.50.
CHAMPION
Canadian Tyree Swales and CD Shiner (CD Olena x Shiners Little Oak x Shining Spark), a 2016 gelding, rode to the Youth Fence World Champion title with a 439 (R:218/C:221). Owner Colleen Penner earned $680.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Ben Self piloted his mom Birgit Self’s 2015 gelding Martinis Bet 15 (Bet Hesa Cat x Dual Martini x Dual Rey) to a 438 (R:216/C:222), earning $544 for the reserve title.
YOUTH LIMITED
CHAMPION
Jills Last Bet (Bet Hesa Cat x Shiners Diamond Jill x Shining Spark), a 2014 mare, carried owner/rider Jubilee Stringfellow to the Youth Limited World Champion title with a 444 (R:218/C:226). The duo earned $980 for the win.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Brett Pura rode his 2013 gelding Bet Hesa Scotti (Bet Hesa Cat x Lenas Scotti x Bobby Bo Badger) to a 441.5 (R:219/C:222.5) to earn $735 and the reserve title.
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LIDINGINTOTHE WINNER’SCIRCLE S
By Kristin Pitzer
Photos by Primo Morales
SnapDragons proved he could compete with the older horses when he carried Zane Davis to the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Open Championship.
After tying for second at the 2020 National Reined Cow Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity® on SnapDragons (Gunnatrashya x Catnaps x High Brow Cat) last year, trainer Zane Davis decided to back the pressure off the stallion. He rode to keep the horse in shape for the next few months, reminding him of the things he’d already learned, and by the time the 2021 Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby rolled around, he felt like the stallion was ready. His strategy paid off when SnapDragons snagged the Open Derby win with a composite of 663.5 (H:217/R:221/C:225.5).
“He was pretty relaxed and happy coming into this show,” said Davis, of Blackfoot, Idaho. “I think that sometimes, especially as a 4-year-old competing against all the 5-year-olds early in the year in a derby like this one, they have to be pretty mature mentally to handle that and still come out and win. I had three horses in the Futurity finals last year, and he’s the only one I brought here because I just felt like he was the only one that was mature enough to handle this situation.”
SnapDragons’ success was part of a dream come true for owner Shane Law, who collected a check worth $29,367.81. Law rodeoed in the past, but the stallion is the first performance horse he’s ever purchased.
“We bought a ranch, and I wanted to get some nice colts, so I started studying the studbooks and I fell in love with Grays Starlight,” Law said. “I started talking to a good friend of mine, R.J. Chambers, and he said, ‘If you listen to me, I’ll help you.’ I said, ‘I’m all ears.’ ”
At the time, Chambers owned a granddaughter of Grays Starlight named Catnaps, a full sister to Kittens High Brow Cat x Starlights Liz
2021 NRCHA TRES OSOS DERBY OPEN TOP 10
Fort Worth, Texas – February 9-20, 2021 Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money
1. SnapDragons; Zane Davis;17S (GunnaTrashYa x Catnaps x High Brow Cat); Shane A. Law; 663.5 (H: 217/R: 221/C: 225.5); $29,367.81.
2. Nineteen Ten; Kelby Phillips;16S (Hickory Holly Time x Lil Miss Shiney Chex x Shining Spark); DT Horses LLC; 663 (H: 220.5/R: 221/C: 221.5); $21,639.44.
3.Saddling At Sunrise; Boyd Rice;16S (WR This Cats Smart x Sunshine Ingredient x Mr Sun O Lena); Burnett Ranches LLC; 662.5 (H: 224/R: 218.5/C: 220); $17,775.26.
4. CR Dees Be Tuff; Kelby Phillips;16G (Woody Be Tuff x CR Dees Boon Meow x Peptoboonsmal); DT Horses LLC; 662 (H: 220/R: 219/C: 223); $15,456.74.
5. Graceful Smart Cat; Justin Wright;16S (WR This Cats Smart x Gracielights x CD Lights); Wagonhound Land & Livestock; 660 (H: 221.5/R: 219/C: 219.5); $11,592.56.
6-7. Hesa Dual Bet; Matt Koch;16S (Bet Hesa Cat x RJJ Miss Viagra Pep x Dual Pep); Kent Blough; 658 (H:219/R: 219/C: 220); $8,501.21.
6-7. SLR Smart As A Cat; John Swales;17S (Metallic Cat x Smart Miss Wolf x Smart Trip Olena); Stump Lake Ranch & Cattle Co.; 658 (H: 221/R: 219/C: 218); $8,501.21.
8. Hazardouz Material; Erin Taormino;16S (Metallic Cat x Scooters Daisy Dukes x Dual Smart Rey); Linda A. Mars; 657.5 (H: 220.5/R: 219.5/C: 217.5); $6,182.70.
9. SJR Talkin Diamonds; Corey Cushing;17S (Smooth Talkin Style x Shiners Diamond Girl x Shining Spark); San Juan Ranch; 657 (H: 218.5/R: 219.5/C: 219); $4,637.02.
10-11. One Time Edition; Ron Ralls;16S (One Time Pepto x PG Special Edition x Playgun); Bell Quarter Horses; 656.5 (H: 218/R: 219/C: 219.5); $4,250.60.
10-11. PRF Peptos Smart Cat; Jared Jones;16S (WR This Cats Smart x Wild Francine x Peptoboonsmal); Tori G. Simons; 656.5 (H: 222/R: 219/C: 215.5); $4,250.60.
SnapDragons’ and Zane Davis’ big score down the fence contributed to their 663.5 composite. The 2017 stallion and Davis won the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Open, earning $29,367.81 for owner Shane Law.
x Grays Starlight), who has produced several cutting money earners. Chambers initially wanted to breed Catnaps to Reyzin The Cash, a cutting money earner, but the stallion, who stands at Oswood Stallion Station in Texas, was at a show and couldn’t ship semen the day he needed it.
Oswood suggested another stallion standing at the station, National Reining Horse Association money-earner and NRHA Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya (Colonels Smoking Gun x Natrasha x Trashadeous), so Chambers bred Catnaps to him instead. Law purchased the resulting colt, SnapDragons, in 2019 and sent the colt to Davis.
From the get-go, the stallion made the training process simple. Davis said he was always easy to train and easygoing. When SnapDragons made Davis’ cut for the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, Law knew he had something special. He started thinking about selling SnapDragons to focus on another colt he had coming up.
“Zane said, ‘I’ll make a phone call right now and I’ll sell him, but you have to remember one thing before I make that call, Shane,’ ” Law recalled. “He said, ‘You will never have another colt like this if you sell him.’ So I thought, well, if Zane’s that high on him, never mind, don’t make that phone call.”
Throughout the pre-futurity season, SnapDragons turned heads, and Law started getting more and more excited. After the stallion landed a 656.5 composite to tie for the Open Reserve title at the Fort Worth, Texas, event in the fall, Law knew his intuition to trust Davis’ judgment had paid off.
“He’s just a cool horse,” Law said. “I owe all of it to Zane and R.J. Chambers because R.J. set me on the right path, and Zane capped it, you might say. He brought it all to life. Zane and SnapDragons are a perfect fit. They do really well together.”
Going into the Tres Osos Cow Horse
Derby, Law was a bit nervous to put SnapDragons up against the 5-year-olds. After the horse’s herd and rein work, the latter of which garnered him an extra $1,144.94 when he tied for the secondhighest score, Law was on pins and needles thinking about the cow work to come for him and SnapDragons.
“I dreamed all night of a 225,” Law said of the night before the fence work. “I kept seeing reined cow horses in my sleep, dreaming of a 225. When they announced a [225.5], I think everybody in the arena knew who owned SnapDragons.”
The stallion’s high fence score brought another $1,717.42. For Law, who retired about a year ago from his trucking company but put 120,000-plus miles on his semi hauling freight last year to cover training and horse purchasing expenses, the journey has been well worth it, and he intends to honor the stallion who made it all possible.
“His barn name is ‘Circle’ because of the star in the middle of his head, which is a circle, so my ranch is going to be
‘Circle’s Ranch,’” Law said. “That’s the one that put me on the map and that’s the one that started it, and he earned the right to have that name.”
//// MEET TRES OSOS PERFORMANCE HORSES
they could breed and raise competitive,
and good-minded horses with the goal of showing in the NRCHA. Their enthusiasm for high-level, athletic horses led to the sponsorship of the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby, the first premier Derby of the year for cow horses.
The Tres Osos Performance Horses sponsorship of the Cow Horse Derby is currently promised for three years; the 2021 event is the third year. Support from sponsors allows the NRCHA to continue to grow and evolve, maintaining its premier events for owners and riders.
OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
After marking a 663 composite score (H: 220.5/R:221/C:221.5), Nineteen Ten (Hickory Holly Time x Lil Miss Shiney Chex x Shining Spark) and Kelby Phillips took home the Open Reserve Championship and a $21,639.44 check to owner DT Horses LLC. The 2016 stallion was bred by Carol Rose.
Linda Mars, Paula Gentry and Dave Mize partnered to form Tres Osos Performance Horses in Mimbres, New Mexico. These three friends decided
sound
INTERMEDIATE OPEN CHAMPION
One Time Edition (One Time Pepto x PG Special Edition x Playgun), a 2016 stallion bred by Flag Ranch LLC, and Ron Ralls won the Intermediate Open Championship with a composite 656.5 (H:218/R:219/C:219.5). Owner Bell Quarter Horses collected $8,973.50 for the title.
LIMITED OPEN CHAMPION
After scoring a 651.5 composite (H:216/R:214/C:221.5), Steady Eddie (Dual Rey x Nurse Nita x Peptoboonsmal) and James Milum were named the Limited Open Champions. The 2016 stallion, who garnered a check worth $3,220.15, was bred by Linda Holmes and is owned by Kevin Wood of Arbuckle, California.
INTERMEDIATE OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
The 2016 mare Got Me Lookin (Smooth As ACat x Dual Lookin Pep x Dual Pep), owned by Rainy Walker and bred by Kevin and Sydney Knight, and ridden by Lee Deacon, received the Intermediate Open Reserve Championship and a $7,084.34 cash prize for their composite 653 (H:215/R:217.5/C:220.5).
LIMITED OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION (TIE)
Bet Hesa Pepto (Bet Hesa Cat x Lil Miss Pepto x Peptoboonsmal) and Jeb Stoltzfus were one of three teams that scored a 650.5 composite (H:214.5/ R:217/C:219) for the Limited Open Co-Reserve Championship. The 2016 gelding, who was bred by Garrett Johnson, banked $2,017.96 for owner Diane Clare.
THE DRIVE TO BECOME A CHAMPION ...
IT STARTS WITHIN.
This 2020 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Champion recognizes the power of nutrition. She’s been a Platinum client since 2013.
Results don’t happen overnight. It takes passion, dedication, hard work and the right nutrition to reach your goals. For 25 years, Platinum Performance® has been improving the lives of horses by impacting health, from the inside, through advanced nutrition. No matter the level of achievement we seek, the love and care for our horses start from a place deep inside of us all.
THE POWER OF NUTRITION STARTS WITHIN.
The nutrition supporting Sarah’s team includes:
SARAH DAWSON
LIMITED OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION (TIE), LEVEL 1 LIMITED OPEN CHAMPION
GunnaLetThePaintFlo (Gunnatrashya x Like To Flo x Like A Diamond), a 2017 mare, and Trey Pool’s composite 650.5 (H:214/R:217.5/C:219) scored the Level 1 Limited Open Championship, worth $4,604.40, and tied in the Limited Open Reserve Championship, worth $2,017.96. The mare is owned by Jeffrey and Wendy Oswood.
OPEN NOVICE HORSE CHAMPION
Burnett Ranches LLC’s homebred 2016 stallion Saddling At Sunrise (WR This Cats Smart x Sunshine Ingredient x Mr Sun O Lena) was piloted by Boyd Rice to a 662.5 (H:224/R:218.5/C:220) to win the Open Novice Horse Championship and $6,456.96.
LIMITED OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION (TIE), LEVEL 1 LIMITED OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Rounding out the three-way tie for the Limited Open Reserve Championship with their composite 650.5 (H:216/R:218/C:216.5) were Move That Rock (That CD Rocks x Smokums Dual Move x Mister Dual Pep) and Cara Hencratt, who were also the Level 1 Limited Open Reserve Champions. The 2016 gelding, who was bred by Erin Mendes, collected checks worth $2,017.96 and $3,683.52, respectively, for owner Debbie Proctor.
OPEN NOVICE HORSE RESERVE CHAMPION
SLR Smart As ACat (Metallic Cat x Smart Miss Wolf x Smart Trip Olena), a homebred 2017 stallion owned by Stump Lake Ranch and Cattle Company, of Canada, carried John Swales to a 658 (H:221/R:219/C:218) for the Open Novice Horse Reserve title, garnering a paycheck worth $5,097.60.
By Kristin Pitzer
The Tres Osos Cow Horse Non Pro Derby Championship went to Parke Greeson and 2016 stallion SCR BetThisTime, who scored a composite of 656 to win $5,943.60.
Photos by Primo Morales
GOOD BET A
Parke Greeson and SCR BetThisTime parlayed their 2020 NRCHA Hackamore Classic success into the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Non Pro Championship.
Throughout the first week of the Tres Osos Cow Horse Non Pro Derby, the temperature in Fort Worth, Texas, steadily dropped.
The morning of the cow work, held the final day, snow flurries turned the city white, and though the indoor John Justin Arena appeared unaffected, the horses and riders could certainly feel the chill in the air.
Parke Greeson and SCR BetThisTime (Bet Hesa Cat x PRF One Time Candi x One Time Pepto) tried not to let the cold get to them throughout the show, though. Greeson, who is from Goliad, located in southern Texas acknowledged the weather made it uncomfortable to go out and school horses, but he and the homebred stallion, who is owned by his family’s Sarco Creek Ranch, kept it together, riding to a composite score of 656 for the Non Pro Championship.
Greeson and “Pablo” are no strangers to the spotlight. The pair picked up the 2020 National Reined Cow Horse Association Hackamore Classic Non Pro Championship last year, and they were reserve in the 2019 NRCHA Snaffle Bit
Futurity® Intermediate Non Pro. Greeson said the stallion has just been a good horse throughout his career.
“There’s horses that when they get to the show, they act different than when they are at home,” Greeson said. “He’s just kind of one that when I get here to these shows, he just feels the same way he does at home. He doesn’t get wound up like some of them do.”
According to Greeson, that show horse temperament is especially evident in the herd work, as Pablo displays a lot of eye appeal when he’s cutting cattle. During the Derby herd work, the pair marked a 217.5, placing sixth.
“I was deep in the herd, and I cut three good, fresh cows,” Greeson said. “I just couldn’t get them to do much, but the horse was being good.”
In the rein work, Greeson and Pablo marked a 213.5. Greeson said he thought the stallion showed well, but there were a few little things the judges didn’t reward with higher marks. During the cow work, though, the horse was spot on, scoring a big 225 to launch the pair to the top of the leaderboard for an extra $330.20.
2021 NRCHA TRES OSOS DERBY NON PRO TOP 10
Fort Worth, Texas – February 9-20, 2021 Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money
1. SCR BetThisTime; Parke S. Greeson;16S (Bet Hesa Cat x PRF One Time Candi x One Time Pepto); Sarco Creek Ranch; 656 (H: 217.5/R: 213.5/C: 225); $5,943.60.
2-3. CR Tuff Guns N Roses; Abbie Phillips;16G (Woody Be Tuff x Gypsy Rose Rey x Dual Rey); Abbie Phillips; 650 (H: 219.5/R: 220/C: 210.5); $4,309.11.
2-3. Glamour Royallty; Kristy Kay Miller;16M (One Time Royalty x Kitna Rey x Dual Rey); Kristy Kay Miller; 650 (H: 219/R: 215/C: 216); $4,309.11.
4-5. Frat Cat; Catelyn M. Walker;16G (WR This Cats Smart x TAMU A Dualin Reina x Aggies Twelfth Man); Catelyn M. Walker; 646.5 (H: 217/R: 213.5/C: 216); $2,971.80.
4-5. TRR Lucky Brazos; Trail Townsend;16S (Pepcid x TRR Ms Lucky Gun x Playgun); Tripp Townsend; 646.5 (H: 214/R: 213/C: 219.5); $2,971.80.
6. Hal Jordan Star; Brent W. Ratliff;17G (Halreycious x Rubys Little Star x Smart Little Lena); Brent W. Ratliff; 645.5 (H:214.5/R: 212.5/C: 218.5); $2,080.26.
7. Better Bamacat; Addison D. Fjelstad;17S (Bamacat x Better Sue x Bet On Me 498); Kenneth J. Schueller; 645 (H: 215/R: 215.5/C: 214.5); $2,080.26.
8. One Time Frosty Nic; Toni M. Hagen Heath;16M (One Time Pepto x Hollywood Frosty Nic x Hollywood Vintage); Daniel G. Heath; 643.5 (H: 212/R: 217.5/C: 214); $1,485.90.
9. FoundLoveAtAHooters; Tammy Jo Hays;17G (Smooth As A Cat x Rey Lena Rey x Dual Rey); Shawn D. Hays; 643 (H: 214.5/R: 219.5/C: 209); $1,485.90.
10-11. On The Reydio; Emily A. Kent;17G (Reydioactive x Bewitching Ichi x Cat Ichi); Emily Ann Kent; 642.5 (H: 214.5/R: 218/C: 210); $1,040.13.
10-11. Ranchin Royalty RAB; Myles Brown;16G (One Time Royalty x Shesa Rock Hancock x Hesa Eddie Hancock); Rob A. Brown; 642.5 (H: 216.5/R: 210/C: 216); $1,040.13.
“Going down the fence, he was just dead on,” Greeson said. “Those cattle were pretty tough, but he’s just a good little fence horse so I didn’t have to do much to him.”
Greeson and Pablo banked a check worth $5,943.60 for the championship. The stallion, who is the first horse by Bet Hesa Cat that Greeson has trained all the way through, is the second horse out of his dam, PRF One Time Candi, that Greeson has ridden to the pay window. He piloted the first, SCR Playin One Time (by Mr Playinstylish), to fifth in the 2018 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Non Pro.
“I’ve been really pleased with this mare’s colts,” Greeson said of PRF One Time Candi. “She just really takes a diversity of studs and genetics, and kind of produces the same consistent horse that is good and strong, well-built, with good eye appeal.”
Pablo is 5 years old, so 2021 will be his last year in the hackamore. Greeson hopes to put him in the two rein for a year, then get him going in the bridle. If he doesn’t end up selling him at some point, he’d eventually like to show him in the World’s Greatest Horseman, an elite competition held in conjunction with the Celebration of Champions each year.
Greeson, who cuts, ropes steers and attends ranch rodeos when he’s not showing cow horses, trains all his horses himself. He said everything he knows he’s learned from Boyd Rice, an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider, and he has structured his program after him.
“I definitely wouldn’t be where I’m at if it wasn’t for all the help from Boyd, so every time I have any success, I sure like to thank him,” Greeson said. “Winning always feels good, and the more you go enter and show, the fewer [wins] there are!”
NON PRO CO-RESERVE CHAMPION, INTERMEDIATE NON PRO CHAMPION AND NOVICE NON PRO CHAMPION
Kristy Kay Miller, of Tryon, Nebraska, and Glamour Royalty (One Time Royalty x Kitna Rey x Dual Rey), a 2016 mare bred by Scott Murdock, won both the Intermediate and Novice Non Pro championships with a 650 composite (H:219/R:215/C:216). The pair also received the Non Pro Co-Reserve Championship, collecting a total of $8,218.17 for the titles.
NON PRO CO-RESERVE CHAMPION
Last year’s Non Pro Reserve Champions, Abbie Phillips and CR Tuff Guns N Roses (Woody Be Tuff x Gypsy Rose Rey x Dual Rey), tied for the Non Pro Co-Reserve Championship with a 650 total on three (H:219.5/R:220/C:210.5). Phillips and the 2016 gelding, who was bred by Center Ranch, banked $4,309.11.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO CO-RESERVE CHAMPION AND NOVICE NON PRO CO-RESERVE CHAMPION
Catelyn Walker guided Frat Cat (WR This Cats Smart x TAMU A Dualin Reina x Aggies Twelfth Man) to a 646.5 composite (H:217/R:213.5/C:216) for the Intermediate Non Pro and Novice Non Pro Co-Reserve championships, worth a total of $2,777.49. The 2016 gelding was bred by the Texas A&M University Department of Animal Science.
In oducing the
HORNS
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 di erent 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.
Cantle height
Choose between a 2 3/4” (pictured), 3”, 3 1/4” or 3 1/2” cantle height.
B20-294
skirt & cut-up
Our new Weatherford skirt pattern features a large, close-contact cut-up.
INTERMEDIATE
NON PRO CO-RESERVE CHAMPION, NOVICE NON PRO CO-RESERVE CHAMPION AND AMATEUR CHAMPION
For their 646.5 composite (H:214/R:213/C:219.5), Trail Townsend and TRRLucky Brazos (Pepcid x TRR Ms Lucky Gun x Playgun) picked up the Intermediate Non Pro Co-Reserve Championship, worth $1,885.95; Novice Non Pro Co-Reserve Championship, worth $891.54; and Amateur Championship, worth $2,532.60. The 2016 stallion was bred by the Tongue River Ranch and is owned by Tripp Townsend.
NON PRO LIMITED CHAMPION
Melinda Mayes-Kelly, of Weatherford, Texas, rode her 2016 gelding Angies Metallic Time (Metallic Cat x Angelena Time x One Time Pepto) to a 648 composite (H:213/ R:213/C:222), winning the Non Pro Limited Championship and $3,680.46. The gelding was bred by Dan Churchill.
AMATEURRESERVE CHAMPION
Addison Fjelstad rode 2017 stallion Better Bamacat (Bamacat x Better Sue x Bet On Me 498) to a 645 total on three (H:215/R:215.5/C:214.5) for the Amateur Reserve Championship. She garnered $1,989.90 with the Flag Ranch LLC-bred horse, who is owned by Kenneth Schueller.
NON PRO LIMITED RESERVE CHAMPION
Though they also scored a 648 composite (H:216.5/R; 211.5/C:220), Cheryl Chown, of Gainesville, Texas, and DCRHigh As ACat’s (High Brow Cat x The Doctress Orders x Dual Rey) lower cow work score gave them the Non Pro Limited Reserve Championship. Chown and her husband, Robert, own the 2015 Rhodes River Ranch Inc.-bred gelding, who collected $2,880.36.
N ICY TRIUMPH A
Below freezing temps didn’t stop North Central Texas College from winning their third Collegiate Invitational Team Championship.
By Kristin Pitzer Photographs by Primo Morales
As February 12, the day of the Collegiate Invitational, dawned at the 2021 National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions, temperatures in Fort Worth, Texas, plummeted. Freezing rain blanketed the region, causing a 100-plus car accident in the city, and road conditions deteriorated quickly.
Because of the messy winter weather, the 2020 Reserve Champion team, Texas A&M University, elected not to make the drive to the event. Still, nine schools competed in the Collegiate Invitational, sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch Stallion Station. For the third year, North Central Texas College walked away as the Team Champions with 44 points.
“I’m just really happy for the girls,” said NCTC Coach Cathy Luse. “I’m very
thankful for the NRCHA for hosting this event once again, and I’m so thankful that our college supported us and let us travel to this event.”
Luse has coached the NCTC stock horse team, which is based in Gainesville, Texas, for about four years. She is grateful to be located so close to professionals in the industry that are supportive to her college students, particularly Sam Smith and Christian and Danielle Lybbert, who coached the NCTC riders.
“This is the premier event that all the college students want to come to because they get to compete in a major event right next to their idols,” Luse said. “It’s just special for them, and it’s special for me to just get to share it with them and get them through this process.”
In addition to the team title, all three NCTC riders received bragging rights of their own. The team’s Non Pro rider, Addison Coutts, rode Sioux Per Boom (A Shiner Named Sioux x Boom N Tari x
NCTC team captain Addison Coutts topped the Fence division, contributing 16 points to the team’s overall championship.
Boomernic) to a 292.5 for first place in the Fence division.
“It was my first time doing it, and I just went out there and tried to give it my all,” Coutts said. “My horse was really good, so I’m ecstatic about it.”
Coutts, 20, is NCTC’s team captain. She’s been riding cow horses for about five years and trains with the Lybberts.
“It’s a whole different responsibility taking these girls through this, just having them look at me as a peer and as our
//////// INTERCOLLEGIATE DIVISION AWARDS
TEAM CHAMPION
North Central Texas College — 44 points
(Addison R. Coutts, Cailyn Simonis, Emmanuelle Amilhac)
TEAM RESERVE CHAMPION
Tarleton State University — 38 points (Clay Kinnison, Shadee Tye, Emily Hamilton)
FENCE CHAMPION
Addison R. Coutts riding Sioux Per Boom/ North Central Texas College
RESERVE CHAMPION
Sidney Dunkel riding Bobbie Can Do/Texas Tech University
LIMITED CHAMPION
Lauren Waymire riding Kookie Jar/West Texas
A&M University
RESERVE CHAMPION
Cailyn Simonis riding Do Not Over Spin/North Central Texas College
NOVICE CHAMPION
Emmanuelle Amilhac riding Mister Navy Diver/ North Central Texas College
RESERVE CHAMPION
Emily Hamilton riding Britches Pleeese/ Tarleton State University
captain,” Coutts said. “It’s very humbling, and I’m glad that we have a little girl game because it just shows that girls can really do it.”
Cailyn Simonis, who also rides with the Lybberts and previously did reining before adding cow horse to her skill set last year, took home the Limited Reserve Championship after navigating Do Not Over Spin (Nu Circle N Cash x Squall Cat x High Brow Cat) to a 276. The 22-yearold hopes to one day be a horse trainer.
“It means a lot to me to be on this team,” Simonis said. “I joined this team to have fun and have the team aspect of it, and then I started getting to show. It’s meant a lot to me to have my teammates cheer me on and have that community aspect of it.”
Rounding out the team, Emmanuelle Amilhac, who is from France, rode Mister Navy Diver (Mister Smart Remedy x Quick Like A Cat x High Brow Cat) to a 289.5 for the Novice Championship. It
NCTC team captain Addison Coutts topped the Fence division, contributing 16 points to the team’s overall championship.
was the sophomore’s first year to compete for the team.
“Last year I watched everyone show and I wished I was in the arena,” said Amilhac, who trains with Smith. “I’ve worked really, really hard, long days trying to get ready for this show. I’m really happy with my horse. He was amazing.”
With so much talent on her team, Luse expects a bright future for each of her girls once they move on from NCTC. Still, it’s not easy to part with them at the end of each year.
“Unfortunately, it’s a Catch-22 for me,” Luse said. “We’re a two-year junior college, so what happens with most of my great riders is they go on to one of the four-year universities that we compete against, so I am constantly in a rebuild situation here. But I know they’re going to be successful wherever they go.”
A win in the Novice helped Emmanuelle Amilhac contribute 18 points to NCTC’s team championship.
HIGHMARKS FORTYLORTODD
Winning her third championship of the 2021 Celebration of Champions, Tylor Todd rides Mr Stylish Cat to top the High School Rodeo Challenge.
Saturday morning, February 20, in Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum at the National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions was reserved for the High School Rodeo Challenge. The top 20 riders from the reined cow horse event held during the 2020 National High School Finals Rodeo in Guthrie, Oklahoma, were 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.
Emerging as the champion was Tylor Todd, of Rexford, Kansas, riding her 2011 gelding, Mr Stylish Cat (Mr Playinstylish x Lil Sally Cat x High Brow Cat). The duo rode to a 144 in the reined work and 145.5 on the cow for a 289.5.Tylor earned $375 and was awarded a custom saddle from Bob’s Custom Saddles, sponsored by Garth and Amanda Gardiner, and a YETI Cooler from the NHSRA.
By Bonnie Wheatley
Photos by Primo Morales
Aboard Mr Stylish Cat, Tylor Todd rode to the High School Rodeo Challenge championship and won the National High School Rodeo Association-sponsored jackpot for $375.
The high school rodeo win punctuated a highly successful Celebration of Champions for Tylor and “Boyd,” as the team earned Novice Non Pro and Intermediate Non Pro World Championships earlier during the prestigious event.
“We went in there after our two wins in the Novice and Intermediate Non Pro Bridle and we just wanted to be solid and finish off the week good,” Tylor said. “He went in really good, he stopped good, turned around and circled good.”
Tylor remarked that despite having made multiple runs in the Intermediate and Novice Non Pro Bridle preliminaries, the finals for both divisions, as well as the Youth Cow Horse preliminary, Boyd remained solid as a rock for the High School Rodeo Challenge.
“His reined work was good, and his cow work was what we needed; we were happy to get through it,” she said.
Tylor, who competes in reined cow horse and girls cutting in the NHSRA, is
currently a senior enrolled in Manhattan Virtual Academy.
“I want to go to college somewhere, but I haven’t figured out where yet. I want to study pre-vet,” said Tylor, adding that online schooling allows her to have more time to pursue her goals in the arena.
Tylor takes time out of her busy horse show schedule to lead a local youth group through her church.
“Last year, I was third at the National High School Finals Rodeo in the reined cow horse, so this year I would like to finish above third,” she said. “In the cutting, I’ve lost cows the last two years, so I’d like to do good in the cutting this year, too.”
Tylor says she is grateful to have the full support of her parents, Jay and Brandy Todd, as well as her siblings, sister, Taylor, and brother, Tannor. She enjoys riding with her trainer, Jay McLaughlin, and is thankful to be surrounded by a supportive group of reined cow horse friends.
HIGH SCHOOL RODEO CHALLENGE RESULTS
(Rider/Horse/Owner/Score):
1.
2.
“I want to thank all of Team Jay McLaughlin for helping us get ready and everything. I’d like to thank my parents and the good Lord for good horses and good friends,” she said.
Tylor competes in the Kansas High School Rodeo Association and earned the 2018 NHSFR Rookie All-Around Cowgirl title.
Incidentally, Mr Stylish Cat was ridden in 2020 by then-owner Gage Gardiner to the High School Rodeo Challenge win in Fort Worth.
Finishing second to Tylor was Wilton, California, all-around hand Pierce Wold riding Real Smooth Cat (Smooth As A Cat x Real Plain Jane x Real Doc), owned by his parents, Ken and Ramona Wold, to a 288. Pierce is an accomplished tiedown and team roper who represented the California High School Rodeo Association at the NHSFR where he finished eighth.
The NHSRA partnered with the NRCHA in 2014 to add reined cow horse to the traditional slate of rodeo events. During the 2021 NHSFR, in Lincoln, Nebraska, the reined cow horse finals will be front and center. Each year, the reined cow horse draws larger crowds and more interest at the NHSFR.
For more information on the high school rodeo program, rules, clinics and more, visit nrcha.com/nhsra-reinedcow-horse/.
Tylor Todd; Mr Stylish Cat; Tylor Todd; 289.5
Pierce Wold; Real Smooth Cat; Ken & Ramona Wold; 288
3. Tatum Olson; Leroys Sugarman; Jamie or Mica Olson; 287
4.Regan Wheatley; Sweet Lil Blue Blood; Regan Wheatley; 281.5
5. Colee Charlesworth; Cat N Boon; Robbin Lea Rice; 268.5
6. Trail Townsend; TRR Lucky Brazos; Tripp Townsend; 263.5
Pierce Wold and Real Smooth Cat placed second in the High School Challenge with a 288.
Celebration of Champions Awards
2020 World Championships
OPEN BRIDLE CHAMPION
Don Rich Custom Saddle
Sponsored by Texas Landmark Realtors
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Stock Horse of Texas
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by Performance Horse Digest
Western Legacy Cowboy Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
Custom Bridle by Preston Williams
Sponsored by Preston Williams
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
OPEN BRIDLE RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
OPEN BRIDLE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
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
Presented by Todd Bergen Performance Horses
Gist Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by Hat 6 Ranch / Walter & Jocelyn Greeman
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Cowboy Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
LIMITED OPEN BRIDLE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by Santa Cruz Animal Health
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 Horse Gear Custom Saddle
Sponsored by Hat 6 Ranch / Walter & Jocelyn
Greeman
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Rent A Stall Mat
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / 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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine /
Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO BRIDLE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
Santa Cruz Animal Health
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 NRCHA
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of
Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BRIDLE RESERVE
CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BRIDLE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
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
Sponsored by NRCHA
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / 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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NOVICE NON PRO BRIDLE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
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 Slooow Ride
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Rent A Stall Mat
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / 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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Ja
OPEN HACKAMORE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
OPEN HACKAMORE 4TH-10TH PLACE
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
INTERMEDIATE OPEN HACKAMORE 1ST PLACE
Adequan product and Salt Water Spa
Certificate
Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital
INTERMEDIATE OPEN HACKAMORE 2ND PLACE
Classic Equine NRCHA Cooler Bag
Sponsored by NRCHA
LIMITED OPEN HACKAMORE CHAMPION
Don Rich Custom Saddle
Sponsored by NRCHA
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
CowTrac System
Sponsored by CowTrac Systems
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch/ 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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine/ Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch/ Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
LIMITED OPEN HACKAMORE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Foam Traveler
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
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 Cannon Quarter Horses / Shiney Outlaw
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Rent A Stall Mat
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Companyy
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NRCHA Celebration of Champions Awards
NON PRO HACKAMORE RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine /
Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO HACKAMORE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
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 NRCHA
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Mike & Kelly Warner / The Final Cut Ranch
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / 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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine /
Performance Horse Central
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
OPEN TWO REIN 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
OPEN TWO REIN 4TH-10TH PLACE
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO TWO REIN CHAMPION
Bob’s Custom Saddle
Presented by Carol Rose Quarter Horses
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO TWO REIN RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine /
Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO TWO REIN 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO TWO REIN 4TH-10TH PLACE
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO LIMITED CHAMPION
DC Cow Horse Gear Custom Saddle
Sponsored by MC Cowhammer
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Stock Horse of Texas
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine /
Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NON PRO LIMITED 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
Santa Cruz Animal Health
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 Two Bit Performance Horses
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / 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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
$5,000 NON PRO LIMITED 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
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 Trey & Sandra Neal
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by NRCHA
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / 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
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine /
Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
$1,000 NON PRO LIMITED 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
$1,000 NON PRO LIMITED 4TH-10TH PLACE
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTHCOW HORSE CHAMPION
Saddle House Custom Saddle
Sponsored by The Animal
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Infinite Reproduction & Genetics
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by Doug & Carol Williamson
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
$2,000 NRCHA Youth Scholarship
Sponsored by NRCHA Foundation
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Horsepower Boots
Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes
Custom Spurs
Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTHCOW HORSE RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
$1,000 NRCHA Youth Scholarship
Sponsored by NRCHA Foundation
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTHCOW HORSE 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Grooming Tote with NRCHA Hay Bag & Classic Equine Bell Boots
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTHCOW HORSE 4TH-5TH PLACE
Grooming Tote with NRCHA Hay Bag
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTHCOW HORSE 6TH-10TH PLACE
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTH LIMITED CHAMPION
Jeff Smith Custom Saddle
Sponsored by Balance Ranch
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Infinite Reproduction & Genetics
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by Hat 6 Ranch / Walter & Jocelyn Greeman
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
$1,250 NRCHA Youth Scholarship
Sponsored by NRCHA Foundation
Horsepower Boots
Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Custom Spurs
Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
NRCHA Celebration of Champions Awards
YOUTH LIMITED RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Brazos Valley Stallion Station
Welltex Fleece Headband/Socks
Sponsored by Back On Track
Custom Monogrammed Tooled Hat Can
Sponsored by Classic Equine / Performance Horse Central
$750 NRCHA Youth Scholarship
Sponsored by NRCHA Foundation
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTH LIMITED 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Grooming Tote with NRCHA Hay Bag & Classic Equine Bell Boots
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Commemorative World Finals Jacket
Sponsored by CR RanchWear
YOUTH LIMITED 4TH-5TH PLACE
Grooming Tote with NRCHA Hay Bag
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
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
Legend Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital
Stomach Scope Certificate
Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital
INTERMEDIATE OPEN BRIDLE 2ND PLACE
Classic Equine NRCHA Cooler Bag
Sponsored by NRCHA
INTERMEDIATE OPEN HACKAMORE 1ST PLACE
Adequan
Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital
Saltwater Spa Certificate
Sponsored by Oklahoma Equine Hospital
INTERMEDIATE OPEN HACKAMORE 2ND PLACE
Classic Equine NRCHA Cooler Bag
Sponsored by NRCHA
SELECT NON PRO BRIDLE 1ST PLACE
Western Legacy Company
60% True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
$150 Farnam Gift Certificate
Sponsored by Farnam
SELECT NON PRO BRIDLE 2ND PLACE
Classic Fit Front Boots
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Sami Fine Pendant
Sponsored by NRCHA
SELECT NON PRO BRIDLE 3RD PLACE
Barnwood Frame
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
SELECT NON PRO LIMITED 1ST PLACE
Western Legacy Company
60%True Custom Hat
Sponsored by Western Legacy Company
$150 Farnam Gift Certificate
Sponsored by Farnam
SELECT NON PRO LIMITED 2ND PLACE
Classic Fit Front Boots
Sponsored by Classic Equine
$150 Farnam Gift Certificate
Sponsored by Farnam
Animal Rockz Horseshow Ring
Sponsored by NRCHA
SELECT NON PRO LIMITED 3RD PLACE
Barnwood Picture Frame
Sponsored by NRCHA
YOUTHCOW HORSE 13 & UNDER 1ST PLACE
Headstall with Custom Buckle
Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur
YOUTHCOW HORSE 13 & UNDER 2ND – 5TH PLACE
Grooming Tote & NRCHA Hay Bag
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
YOUTH LIMITED 13 & UNDER 1ST PLACE
Headstall with Custom Buckle
Sponsored by RT Bit and Spur
YOUTH LIMITED 13 & UNDER 2ND– 5TH PLACE
Grooming Tote & NRCHA Hay Bag
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
2021 High School Rodeo Invitational
HIGH SCHOOLRODEO INVITATIONALCHAMPION
Bob’s Custom Saddle
Sponsored by Garth & Amanda Gardiner
YETI Cooler
Sponsored by National High School Rodeo
Association
HIGH SCHOOLRODEO INVITATIONAL
RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
2021 Collegiate Challenge
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE NON PRO CHAMPION
Gist Buckle
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE
NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Buckle
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE
LIMITED NON PRO CHAMPION
Gist Buckle
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE LIMITED NON PRO
RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Buckle
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE
NOVICE NON PRO CHAMPION
Gist Buckle
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE
NOVICE NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Buckle
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE CHAMPION TEAM
Classic Equine Coolers & NRCHA Tote Bag, Ribbons
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE
RESERVE CHAMPION TEAM
Halters & Ribbons
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
2021 World’s Greatest Youth Horseman
PRESENTED BY MARS EQUESTRIAN™
CHAMPION
Bob’s Custom Saddle
Sponsored by Mars Equestrian™
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by Mars Equestrian™
50X Custom Hat
Sponsored by Shorty’s Caboy Hattery
UltraCruz® Equine Advanced Gastric Support
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
YETI Cooler
Sponsored by National High School Rodeo
RESERVE CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Advanced Joint Supplement
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch /
Santa Cruz Animal Health
3RD PLACE
Les Vogt Classic Equine Legal Bit
Sponsored by The Creator’s Apprentice
RIDERS
Carroll Leather Jackets
Sponsored by Mars Equestrian™
Commemorative Number
Sponsored by Mars Equestrian™
Embroidered Duffle
Sponsored by Classic Equine™
HIGH SCORE - PRELIMINARY HERD WORK
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Billy & Pam Minick
HIGH SCORE – PRELIMINARY REIN WORK
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Billy & Pam Minick
HIGH SCORE – PRELIMINARY STEER STOPPING
Robbie Schroeder Memorial Saddle by Jeff
Smith’s Custom Saddles
Sponsored by Mary F. Atkinson Charitable Lead
Trust c/o Don & Joetta Bell
HIGH SCORE – PRELIMINARY COW WORK
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Billy & Pam Minick
2021 DT Horses / Hashtags’ World’s Greatest Horseman
CHAMPION
Custom Sami Fine Silver and Diamond Ring
Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry
Martin Saddlery Custom Saddle
Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by DT Horses and Hashtags
Nile Crocodile Boots
Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes
$100 Gift Certificate to Sami Fine Jewelry
Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Advanced Gastric Support
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / 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
$100 Gift Certificate to Sami Fine Jewelry
Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Advanced Gastric Support
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
3RD PLACE
$300 Farnam Gift Certificate
Sponsored by Farnam
$100 Gift Certificate to Sami Fine Jewelry
Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Monogrammed Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
4TH-10TH PLACE
$100 Gift Certificate to Sami Fine Jewelry
Sponsored by Sami Fine Jewelry
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Monogrammed Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
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
HIGH SCORE COWGIRL
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by National Cowgirl Hall of Fame
ALLRIDERS
Classic Fit Front Boots
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Carroll Leather Jacket
Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses
Commemorative Back Number
Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses
ALL OWNERS
Carroll Leather Jacket
Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses
Commemorative Back Number
Sponsored by Kalpowar Quarter Horses
NRCHA Celebration of Champions Awards
2021 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 NRCHA
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
OPEN – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
OPEN 4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE OPEN CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance®
GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE OPEN – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE OPEN – 4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LIMITED OPEN CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LIMITED OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LIMITED OPEN – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LIMITED OPEN –4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LEVEL 1 LIMITED OPEN CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LEVEL 1 LIMITED OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LEVEL 1 LIMITED OPEN – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
LEVEL 1 LIMITED OPEN – 4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE HORSE CHAMPION
One-Month Supply of
Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE HORSE RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE HORSE – 3RD PLACE
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE HORSE – 4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Doug & Carol Williamson
One-Month Supply of
Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO – 4TH- 5TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Jonathan & Laura Yarbrough
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO – 4TH-5TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE NON PRO CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Jonathan & Laura Yarbrough
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE NON PRO – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NOVICE NON PRO – 4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
AMATEUR CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Jonathan & Laura Yarborough
One-Month Supply of Platinum
Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
AMATEURRESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Prize Pack
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
AMATEUR – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
AMATEUR – 4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO LIMITED CHAMPION
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Hat 6 Ranch / Walter & Jocelyn Greeman
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI Sponsored by Platinum Performance
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Jaun Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO LIMITED RESERVE CHAMPION
Monogrammed Polar Fleece Cooler
Sponsored by Classic Equine
UltraCruz® Grooming Kit
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO LIMITED – 3RD PLACE
Tack Room Ceiling Cover
Sponsored by NRCHA
UltraCruz® Equine Travel Foamer
Sponsored by San Juan Ranch / Santa Cruz Animal Health
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
NON PRO LIMITED – 4TH-10TH PLACE
Monogrammed Vest
Sponsored by Tres Osos Performance Horses
Dualin For
Sugar
Keltic
Kit Caboodle
2020 Alberta RCHA Derby Amateur Reserve CHAM pION
2020 Alberta RCHA Cowtown Derby Np CHAM pION
Shown & Owned by Mary Baks
Kit Kat Safari
2020 Alberta RCHA Cowtown 2-Rein Open CHAM pION
Shown & Owned by Iaian Durrell
KK Sugar Twist
2020 Idaho RCHA Derby Ltd Np Finalist
Shown by Joel Jewett
Owned by White Tail Ranch
Scooter Kat
2020
Shown
Play Rey Sugar Baby
2020 NRCHA Stakes Novice Horse Open Finalist
2020 NRCHA Hackamore Classic Np Finalist
Shown by Tammy Hays
Owned by Walter Greeman & Tammy Hays
Reydas Sugar Cat
2020 Alberta RCHA Cowtown Derby 7500LTD Open CHAM pION
Shown & Owned by Sarah Wolfs
Some Kinda Kit Kat
2020 Alberta RCHA Futurity Open CHAM pION
2020 Alberta RCHA Cowtown Futurity Open Finalist
2020 Idaho RCHA Futurity Open Finalist
Shown & Owned by Cayley Wilson
Stylin Kat
2020 Southwest RCHA
Finalist & Texas Bred Incentive Open Finalist
2020 NRCHA Futurity Np 3rd place
Shown by Tammy Hays
Owned by Walter Greeman & Tammy Hays
Sugarhowyougetsofly 2020 Canada Up On The Coast Open Derby Money Earner 2020 Alberta RCHA Derby Open Finalist & Novice Open CHAM pION
2020 Alberta RCHA Cowtown Derby Reserve CHAM pION
Shown by Cayley Wilson
Owned by Michelle Brune
2021 NRCHA FOUNDATION
Scholarships for NRCHA Affiliate Youth Champions
YOUTH FENCE - $500 SCHOLARSHIP
Ryan Grey, Alberta Reined Cow Horse Association
Chance Leatherman, California Reined Cow Horse Association
Tyree Swales, Canadian Coast Reined Cow Horse Association
Madelyn Kirkpatrick, Central Montana Reined Cow Horse Association
Shelby Temple, Colorado Reined Cow Horse Association
Sage Kugler, Idaho Reined Cow Horse Association
Landon Luce, Montana Reined Cow Horse Futurity, Inc.
Hunter Kugler, Northwest Reined Cow Horse Association
Cutter McLaughlin, Panhandle Reined Cow Horse Association
Tucker Gillespie, South Dakota Reined Cow Horse Association
Christopher Lewis II, South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association
Kaylee Mason, Southern California Reined Cow Horse Association
Isabelle Gonzalez, Southern Reined Cow Horse Alliance
Quincee Clark, Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association
YOUTH LIMITED - $250 SCHOLARSHIP
Kate Wedderburn, Alberta Reined Cow Horse Association
Caroline Buchanan, Arizona Reined Cow Horse Association
Sylvia Speelman, Atlantic Reined Cow Horse Association
Brett Pura, California Reined Cow Horse Association
Waylon McArthur, Canadian Coast Reined Cow Horse Association
Hannah Goffena, Central Montana Reined Cow Horse Association
Riley Friesen, Colorado Reined Cow Horse Association
Caroline Fletcher, Gulf Coast Cow Horse Association
Elizabeth Billman, Idaho Reined Cow Horse Association
Jayden Janson, Montana Reined Cow Horse Futurity, Inc.
Braelynn Weaver, Nevada Reined Cow Horse Association
Chloe Rourke, New York Reined Cow Horse Association
Laney Fjelstad, North Central Reined Cow Horse Association
Kassady Helsen, Northwest Reined Cow Horse Association
Landri Lisac, Panhandle Reined Cow Horse Association
Reese Gillespie, South Dakota Reined Cow Horse Association
Will Lewis, South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association
Kaitlyn Holbrook, Southern California Reined Cow Horse Association
Kade Vinyard, Southern Reined Cow Horse Alliance
Haylee Triplitt, Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association
Kylee Hawkins, The Carolinas Reined Cow Horse Association
2020 NRCHA National Top 5 Awards
NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by CB Trucking / Amy & Paul Bailey
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Linda McMahon / McSpyder Ranch
Sponsored NRCHA
One Pair Rios of Mercedes Boots
Sponsored by NRCHA and Rios of Mercedes
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket
Sponsored by Osphos
NATIONAL RESERVE CHAMPIONS
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by Colorado State University
Sponsored by NRCHA
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 PLACEE
Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket
Sponsored by Osphos
YOUTH COW HORSE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
CR Morrison Trophy
Sponsored by SDP Buffalo Ranch
Gist Custom Buckle
Sponsored by NRCHA
Horsepower Boots
Sponsored by Rios Of Mercedes
One-Month Supply of Platinum Performance® GI
Sponsored by Platinum Performance
Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket
Sponsored by Osphos
YOUTH COW HORSE 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 COW HORSE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL 3RD PLACE
Monogrammed ZONE Wool Top Pad
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket
Sponsored by Osphos
YOUTH COW HORSE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL 4TH PLACE
Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket
Sponsored by Osphos
YOUTH COW HORSE AND YOUTH LIMITED NATIONAL 5TH PLACE
Monogrammed Tooled Toiletry Bag
Sponsored by Classic Equine
Commemorative National Top 5 Jacket
Sponsored by Osphos
FOR EVERY EQUINEDISCIPLINE
As with all drugs, side effects may occur. In field studies and post-approval experience the most common side effects reported were signs of discomfort, nervousness, and colic. Other signs reported were: renal insufficiency/failure, anorexia, lethargy, hypercalcemia, behavioral disorders, hyperkalemia, hyperactivity, recumbency, hyperthermia, injection site reactions, muscle tremor, urticaria, hyperglycemia, and fracture. In some cases, death has been reported as an outcome of these adverse events. The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in horses less than 4 years of age or breeding horses. OSPHOS should not be used in pregnant or lactating mares, or mares intended for breeding. NSAIDs should not be used concurrently with OSPHOS. Concurrent use of NSAIDs with OSPHOS may increase the risk of renal toxicity and acute renal failure. Use of OSPHOS in patients with conditions affecting renal function or mineral or electrolyte homeostasis is not recommended. Refer to the prescribing information for complete details or visit www.dechra-us.com.
CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of licensed veterinarian.
Bisphosphonate. For use in horses only.
Brief Summary (For Full Prescribing Information, see package insert)
CAUTION: Federal (USA) law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
DESCRIPTION: Clodronate disodium is a non-amino, chloro-containing bisphosphonate. Chemically, clodronate disodium is (dichloromethylene) diphosphonic acid disodium salt and is manufactured from the tetrahydrate form.
INDICATION: For the control of clinical signs associated with navicular syndrome in horses.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Horses with hypersensitivity to clodronate disodium should not receive OSPHOS. Do not use in horses with impaired renal function or with a history of renal disease.
WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.
HUMAN WARNINGS: Not for human use. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. Consult a physician in case of accidental human exposure.
PRECAUTIONS: OSPHOS has been associated with renal toxicity. Concurrent administration of other potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached with caution and renal function should be monitored. Use of bisphosphonates in patients with conditions or diseases affecting renal function is not recommended. Horses should be well-hydrated prior to and after the administration of OSPHOS due to the potential for adverse renal events. Water intake and urine output should be monitored for 3-5 days post-treatment and any changes from baseline should elicit further evaluation. As a class, bisphosphonates may be associated with gastrointestinal and renal toxicity. Sensitivity to drug associated adverse reactions varies with the individual patient. Renal and gastrointestinal adverse reactions may be associated with plasma concentrations of the drug. Bisphosphonates are excreted by the kidney; therefore, conditions causing renal impairment may increase plasma bisphosphonate concentrations resulting in an increased risk for adverse reactions. Concurrent administration of other potentially nephrotoxic drugs should be approached with caution and renal function should be monitored. Use of bisphosphonates in patients with conditions or diseases affecting renal function is not recommended. Administration of bisphosphonates has been associated with abdominal pain (colic), discomfort, and agitation in horses. Clinical signs usually occur shortly after drug administration and may be associated with alterations in intestinal motility. In horses treated with OSPHOS these clinical signs usually began within 2 hours of treatment. Horses should be monitored for at least 2 hours following administration of OSPHOS.
Bisphosphonates affect plasma concentrations of some minerals and electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, immediately post-treatment, with effects lasting up to several hours. Caution should be used when administering bisphosphonates to horses with conditions affecting mineral or electrolyte homeostasis (e.g. hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, hypocalcemia, etc.). The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in horses less than 4 years of age. The effect of bisphosphonates on the skeleton of growing horses has not been studied; however, bisphosphonates inhibit osteoclast activity which impacts bone turnover and may affect bone growth.
Bisphosphonates should not be used in pregnant or lactating mares, or mares intended for breeding. The safe use of OSPHOS has not been evaluated in breeding horses or pregnant or lactating mares. Bisphosphonates are incorporated into the bone matrix, from where they are gradually released over periods of months to years. The extent of bisphosphonate incorporation into adult bone, and hence, the amount available for release back into the systemic circulation, is directly related to the total dose and duration of bisphosphonate use. Bisphosphonates have been shown to cause fetal developmental abnormalities in laboratory animals. The uptake of bisphosphonates into fetal bone may be greater than into maternal bone creating a possible risk for skeletal or other abnormalities in the fetus. Many drugs, including bisphosphonates, may be excreted in milk and may be absorbed by nursing animals.
Increased bone fragility has been observed in animals treated with bisphosphonates at high doses or for long periods of time. Bisphosphonates inhibit bone resorption and decrease bone turnover which may lead to an inability to repair micro damage within the bone. In humans, atypical femur fractures have been reported in patients on long term bisphosphonate therapy; however, a causal relationship has not been established.
ADVERSE REACTIONS: The most common adverse reactions reported in the field study were clinical signs of discomfort or nervousness, colic and/or pawing. Other signs reported were lip licking, yawning, head shaking, injection site swelling, and hives/pruritus.
POST-APPROVAL EXPERIENCE (December 2018): The following adverse events are based on post-approval adverse drug experience reporting. Not all adverse events are reported to FDA/CVM. It is not always possible to reliably estimate the adverse event frequency or establish a causal relationship to product exposure using these data.
The following adverse events are listed in decreasing order of reporting frequency: renal failure, polyuria, polydipsia, abdominal pain, anorexia, lethargy, hypercalcemia, behavioral disorder, discomfort, hyperkalemia, hyperactivity, recumbency, hyperthermia, injection site reactions, muscle tremor, urticaria, hyperglycemia, and fracture. In some cases, death has been reported as an outcome of the adverse events listed above.
INFORMATION FOR HORSE OWNERS: Owners should be advised to:
• NOT administer NSAIDs.
• Ensure horses have access to adequate water before andafter administration of OSPHOS.
• Observe their horse for at least 2 hours post-treatment forsigns of colic, agitation, and/or abnormal behavior.
• If a horse appears uncomfortable, nervous, or experiences cramping posttreatment, hand walk the horse for 15 minutes. If signs do not resolve contact the veterinarian.
• Monitor water intake and urine output for 3-5 days post-treatment.
• Contact their veterinarian if the horse displays abnormal clinical signs such as changes in drinking and urination, appetite, and attitude.
ASSOCIATION
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.
Owned by the Horton Family Strawn Valley Ranch, Dual Smart Rey is a top NCHA and NRCHA sire with over 8 Million Dollars in offspring earnings
Dual Smart Rey is sired by AQHA Hall of Fame Stallion Dual Rey, who has well over $41 million in offspring earnings in both the NCHA and NRCHA and out of The Smart Look, who remains Equistat 5th Top Producing Broodmare with over $1.8 Million in produce earnings including top NRCHA sire WR This Cats Smart. Exclusively trained and shown by Phil Rapp, “Lloyd” as he is affectionately known, was a semi-finalist in the 2005 NCHA Futurity Open, followed in 2006 by the Jr Cutting Horse Open Championship at the AQHA World Show, the 2006 Bonanza Open Champion, 2006 NCHA Super Stakes Open Champion, 2007 Abilene Spectacular Reserve Champion, and 2007 Augusta Futurity Open Classic Reserve Champion, just to name a few. Dual Smart Rey and Strawn Valley Ranch are proud to be sponsors of the NRCHA in 2021.
Metallics MVP, owned by Wolf Livestock, is a 2015 red roan stallion by $40 Million Dollar Sire Metallic Cat and out of the phenomenal mare, My Lizzy Babe. Metallics MVP is the 2020 Arbuckle Mountain Futurity Open Classic Champion, 2020 Abilene Open Classic Champion, 2019 Ike Reserve Derby Champion and the 2019 PCCHA Fall Open Derby Stakes Reserve Champion. At 14.3-hh, and with all the bone you could ask for in one, he is extremely strong and eye catching in the arena. MVP is in training with Beau Galyean and stands at Beau Galyean Stallion Station. Follow us on Facebook or at www.wol ivestock.com metallics-mvp.
Metallic Cat (High Brow Cat x Chers Shadow x Peptoboonsmal), owned by Rocking P Ranch, is a $40 Million Dollar Sire. “Denver” was also crowned National Cutting Horse Association Open Horse of the Year, 2016 NCHA Freshman Sire of the Year, 2017-2020 the NCHA Sire of the Year, and NRCHA Leading Sire from 2017 -2020. 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 RanchWhere 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 uine 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 201 daho CHA Open Derby Champion, earning more than $343,000. BadBoonaRising stands to the public at Brazos Valley Stallion Station, in Stephenville, Texas. For more information, visit badboonarising.com and follow him on Facebook.
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 Snaf e Bit Futurity Sales Visit them on the web at www.WesternBloodstock.net.
Here Comes The Boon (Once In A Blue Boon X Stay Outta My Shorts, by Shorty Lena) is a bay roan stallion owned by Rocking BS Ranch. In 2019, Here Comes The Boon captured the coveted title of NRCHA Snaf e Bit Futurity Open & Intermediate Open Champion, under the guidance of Lance Johnston. That same year this duo also topped the leader board and claimed the NSHA Pre-Futurity Open & Intermediate Open Championship. Now with earnings over $229,916, this 4 year old is just coming into his stride. Here Comes The Boon stands at Pacific Crest uine, xeter, California. For more information, visit herecomestheboon.com, follow him on Facebook or call Brent Steward at 702-498-3810.
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.
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 Snaf e Bit Futurity.
Learn more about Holy Cow Performance Horses at www.HolyCowPerformanceHorses.com.
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: Snaf e Bit - 2013 NRCHA ntermediate 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 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.
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.bra osvalleystallionstation.com
Time For The Diamond (One Time Pepto x Diamonds With Style x Playin Stylish), owned by Triple D Ranches, is the 2013 NRCHA Snaf e 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 lla Rey x Dual Rey , owned by Fults Ranch LTD, has $420,903 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 201 , and they are definitely looking the part. For more information on Stevie follow him on Facebook or visit steviereyvon.com.
Rey in The Cash Dual Rey x Spookys Cash x Miss N Cash), owned by ron Rose Ranch, won six open championship titles throughout his show career. The most impressive wins were earning back-toback championship crowns at the 2015 and 2016 National Cutting Horse Association Derby. Rey in The Cash is a multiple-time limited aged event finalist, bringing his lifetime earnings to $278,766. 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.
Bet He Sparks (Bet Hesa Cat x Sparking Train x Shining Spark) is a 2014 stallion owned by Kathryn & Layn Phillips. His many titles include 201 NRCHA Open Derby Champion and 2019 Open Hackamore Classic Champion. Trained and shown by Clayton Edsall, Bet He Sparks has earned more than 200,000 in the NRCHA and NCHA. Sparky is versatile and talented in and out of the show pen. He will be standing at 0 Ranch in 2021. He is genetic tested as 5 Panel N/N. For more information, follow Bet He Sparks on Facebook.
(Metallic Cat x Heavens Little Angel x Smart Little Lena) is a 2016 liver chestnut stallion with several championships earned in his career. His conformation, expression, talent and gorgeous color turn heads wherever he goes. Cow horse, cutting, reining, roping, ranch versatility —he can do it all! He is 5 panel N/N negative, and sure to make babies that are as pretty and talented as he is. Check him out on Facebook.
Roll Royce has captured the horse industry’s attention in the show pen like no other, with the captivating and charismatic way he moves through the pen. Royce has multiple championship titles to his name, including back-toback wins in the big pen at Fort Worth.
The 2014 sorrel stallion by Dual Smart Rey and out of Show Bi Kitty, by High Brow Cat, is now starting his transition from the show pen to the breeding barn, after earning 3 3, 2. Royce’s first foal crop has now hit the ground, showing the same quality he possessed as a weanling. For more information on this amazing stallion go to beaugalyean.com/rollz-royce and follow him on Facebook.
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-yearold. “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.weatherfordequine.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 -year-old year. This sire’s first foal crop arrived in 201 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.
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 3 ,000 in lifetime earnings. As he transitions from the show pen to the breeding barn, this sire’s first offspring, arriving in 201 , are displaying not only his tremendous character, but also his incredible confirmation. For more information, visit metallicrebel.com and follow him on Facebook.
Moncrief Quarter Horses, owned by Charlie and Kit Moncrief, is home to NCHA Futurity Open Champion Royal Fletch and multiple-time AQHA and NRCHA World Champion Mr Playinstylish. Based in Aledo, Texas, Moncrief Quarter Horses are breeders and owners of elite cutting, reined cow horse and ranch horses. The iconic Moncrief program offers well-bred yearling and 2-year-old prospects, and seasoned cutting and cow horses for sale at all times. Follow Mr Playinstylish on Facebook or visit moncriefquarterhorses.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.
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 201 . 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.
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. n 201 , he was the leading sire of NRCHA Snaf e 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.
SOUTH TEXAS Reined Cow Horse Association
By Abigail Boatwright • Photographs by High Cotton Promotions
David Neason and Jordan Williams share a laugh at one of STRCHA’s events.
A welcoming community of cow horse folks raises money for children in crisis.
Now into its fourth year of operation, the South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association has grown steadily—both in membership numbers and in entries to its frequent events. As more join the group, more is donated to the club’s cause: supporting the not-for-profit boys and girls home at Still Creek Ranch located in Bryan, Texas.
This year, the National Reined Cow Horse Association named the STRCHA as the 2020 Affiliate of the Year. The distinction is partly due to the STRCHA members, all who are dedicated cow horse enthusiasts. Thanks to conscientious management and volunteering, the club’s events are fun, welcoming and well-run—all contributing to the STRCHA being a gathering place for cow horse competitors from close in southcentral Texas and from farther parts.
GETTING STARTED
A woman wearing many hats, Tina McCleary is STRCHA’s secretary, show manager and the facility manager at Still Creek Ranch. McCleary, along with cow horse trainer Chris Ward, located in Baytown, Texas, started the club in 2017 in response to interest in reined cow horse within their local horse community. They were also looking for ways to fundraise for the Still Creek Ranch boys and girls home, which rescues children from crisis environments and provides them with a Christian education.
“The club was founded to serve as a booster organization for the equestrian
program at Still Creek, as well as to serve the local horse community,” McCleary said.
Starting with the necessary 20 members to form an affiliate club, STRCHA has grown exponentially each year.
“Last year, all of our shows grew by at least 33 percent,” McCleary said. “Last year’s member number was 326.”
The organization also grew from a team of two to a board of members, sharing the workload. McCleary says this uptick in participation is due to a couple of things. The facility, for one.
“We have a really nice pen, with really good dirt,” McCleary said. “It’s big, so a lot of people like to come to school [their horses] here, too.”
With the exception of the Heritage Days Classic, all STRCHA events are held at Still Creek Ranch in Bryan, Texas.
Good facilities, great timing and a welcoming atmosphere are all factors contributing to the NRCHAAffiliate of the Year, South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association.
The club has strategically scheduled its events to coincide with major events happening at Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas, which is not too far from Bryan.
“We have a show before the Futurity, we have one before the Derby, and one before the Celebration of Champions,” McCleary said. “So our timing and our facility has helped us a ton.”
The environment at STRCHA events is another plus, says McCleary.
“Everybody’s always talking about how laidback our shows are, and even with a really big show, like the Heritage Days Classic, we still keep a laidback, real family feel,” McCleary said. “And it’s low stress, so that always helps.”
As the show entries have increased— particularly at its biggest event, the Heritage Days Classic—the organization has had to make adaptions to the venue.
“The biggest struggle for us has been just finding a facility to handle the Heritage Days Classic because it has grown two-and-a-half times each of the last three years,” McCleary said. “We only have 105 stalls at Still Creek Ranch, and we had 400 horses at the show last year.”
In fact, after maxing out the stalls at Still Creek Ranch, the Heritage Days Classic has been held at several larger venues. This year it’ll be held at Tri-State Expo in Amarillo—the only facility large enough, while also being available, on the necessary date.
“Every single time we have had a show, we have expanded here,” McCleary said. “We fill the stalls, I add more stalls and that’s exactly how many horses we have. So, I add some more stalls! And that’s exactly how many horses we have at the next show. I have yet to have to turn anybody down, but we are at capacity at every show. It’s so cool to see.
“Payouts have also increased,” McCleary continued. “Just, in every way it can grow, it has.”
ON A MISSION
Exhibitors from near and far show up at STRCHA shows. Even the Swales family—NRCHA two-time World’s Greatest Horseman John Swales and his brother, Clint—has participated, making the trek from Canada.
“We’ve been growing and gaining support for the [Still Creek] program from big riders that have come to show here,” McCleary said.
STRCHA shows continue to fundraise for the club’s core mission, the equestrian program at Still Creek.
“The club has paid for a family vacation for the boys who live at the ranch, who are functionally fostered there,”
JWB Performance Horses crew showing off trophy saddles.
A family-friendly culture is a hallmark of this affiliate club’s events.
Spacious arenas with good dirt attract competitors from near and far.
PulseVet shock wave therapy has been a complete game-changer in my program! Not only do I routinely advocate for it in my practice, I also utilize it on my own horses. I have no doubt it helped “Peso” in achieving our National and World NRCHA titles. I recommend PulseVet to all my performance horse clients!
Katherine DeHaan, DVM
– Owner of Equistride Veterinary Services, LLC
Caldwell, ID
McCleary said. “It’s been fun getting the kids out to be able to see things.”
The best part about the club’s trajectory has been seeing it all come together each show, and how the good folks participating have been able to impact the youth living at Still Creek, says McCleary.
“This facility is a Christian boys and girls club, and this arena where we have most of the shows was all donated,” McCleary said. “There is a Bible buried in the concrete under every footer. So the club is continuing the idea that the Lord has given us everything we need for every show. Every time, exactly what we need: no more, no less. Those are the highlights, seeing that happen every show after show after show.”
BUILDING ACOW HORSE FAMILY
Membership dues go toward year-end prizes in the STRCHA, as a way to pay back those dedicated competitors. The club hosts five weekend events—10 individual shows held throughout the year, as well as a stallion auction to add money to the Heritage Days Classic Derby payout.
“Seventy percent of everything we make with the auction is the Derby payout,” McCleary said. “We retain the rest to run our website, advertisements, things like that. And then the show, in
turn, donates 50 percent to the Still Creek program. So that is our biggest fundraiser.”
In addition to horse shows, the club hosts clinics with respected trainers like Don Murphy who has visited to teach, and also hosts judge’s seminars. At each show the organization throws a potluck meal—something everyone enjoys, said McCleary.
“The club provides the meat, the protein—and then everybody potlucks everything else,” McCleary said. “Our Thanksgiving one is a big hit—we do turkey and ham and everybody brings all their favorite Thanksgiving sides. That’s been a really good community-building activity for our group, keeping that family feel.”
Looking forward, McCleary says the club’s goals continue to be providing good service for the horse community, putting on well-run shows and supporting the Still Creek Equestrian program. But the club also wants to be a great place for folks to come and enjoy being involved with reined cow horses.
“Our main focus is to keep it familyoriented, super friendly, user-friendly and beginner-friendly,” McCleary said. “Especially when we first got started, we would do ‘potluck dinner and learn’
events where people bring their horse equipment and we could make sure it follows the rules.”
The club has also hosted other educational events to offer info that benefits the group on topics such as licensing and electronic logging devices (ELD).
“Being beginner-friendly is a big thing for us, too,” McCleary said. “I have seen people come to us and not know they need leggings or not know they needed a romal, and have four or five trainers go to their trailers and pull things out so that the newcomer could show and not get disqualified. It’s a good feeling to know that we can support people in that way.”
That welcoming atmosphere, a supportive community and a group up for having a good time are characteristics that defines the STRCHA, explained McCleary.
“We have good ground, a good pen, and good cattle—we have a great cattle supplier—and those things, of course, are key,” McCleary said. “Competitors aren’t going to come if we don’t have those things, but the other stuff—the close-knit group—is icing on the cake.”
STRCHA members have five weekend events, 10 individual shows in all, to compete for year-end awards like these.
House parents and residents of Still Creek Ranch’s boys and girls program are integral parts of hosting shows. This group works concessions at all of the horse shows and competitors know them well.
By Megan Arszman
with Your Horse in Mind
Prepare for the long haul with tips to keep you and your horses healthy and safe. Ways to
FFINALLY, IT’S TIME TO GET BACK ON
THE ROAD! With the excitement of the upcoming show season comes anticipation, and maybe some confusion, on how to plan the least stressful route from barn to show and back again. Long trips can add to the care of your horse, given the number of hours he’ll spend confined in a moving box. Preparation is key to ensuring the health and safety of you and your horse on the road.
Taking the time to really plan your trip—packing what may be needed to address health concerns and plotting a safe course—allows you to be best prepared for the long haul. While you can’t control several factors, such as other drivers or the weather, preparing yourself the best you can allows for a more successful trip, which might just mean a trip to the winner’s circle.
Here, the National Reined Cow Horse Association’s top horsemen and -women weigh in on their travel do’s. Keep these tips in mind during your next road trip with your horses.
HEALTHCONCERNS
Your horse’s health is always a priority at home, but on the road it’s crucial. You want the trip to be as safe and comfortable for your horse as possible. Some concerns to consider when it comes to hauling long distances include:
1. Respiratory Problems. Horse owners and haulers should keep in mind the potential for a horse to develop shipping fever and equine asthma from inhaling dust and debris for long periods of time. Tying up a horse for long periods reduces its ability to clear its airways. Add the stress of hauling a long distance and it can be a recipe for a health disaster.
“Depending on the time of year and what’s going on, trailer rides can be very dusty,” said Amy Armentrout, DVM, dipl. ACVS, associate and surgeon at Burleson Equine Hospital in Burleson, Texas. “When your horse is at home, he can put his head down to eat and drink, which helps him to clear his trachea and his lungs. And standard trailers do not afford a horse the opportunity to put his head down—he stands for long periods of time with his head tied up, breathing in all that dust and struggling to expel it
from his lungs. That can lead to respiratory problems.”
Armentrout stressed the importance of stopping every few hours and not only letting your horse relax from the constant vibrations and movement of the trailer, but also get out of the trailer to walk around, put its head down and clear out its trachea by coughing.
Use bedding in your trailer that is not dusty, such as shavings that have a bigger flake to them or bedding made from recycled newspaper. Armentrout warned that some straw can still be dusty, and avoid using fine sawdust in the trailer.
“Shipping fever and equine asthma are the big respiratory problems that we see after a long haul,” Armentrout said. “If you have a horse that you already know has a compromised respiratory system, perhaps due to being diagnosed with equine asthma, it’s nice to be able to get
Airflow is key to keeping a horse’s respiratory system functioning. Also, it’s a good idea to have medication on hand for emergencies.
KATE BRADLEY BYARS
those horses out regularly throughout the trip.”
2. Gastric Ulcers. Not only can the stress of the haul cause gastric ulcers, but so can a lack of nutrition. Armentrout stressed the importance of horses having access to good-quality, dust-free hay at all times. Having hay available throughout the trip minimizes the probability of gastric ulcers.
“You need to have a food source available while hauling,” said Armentrout. “Personally, I’d be comfortable with just providing hay. If it’s a dusty hay, wet it down before placing it in the hay bag to prevent dust inhalation.”
3. Dehydration. This is a year-round concern, not just during the summer. Stopping multiple times and allowing your horse ample time to drink water should prevent any concern; however, excessive heat and/or excessive stress can cause a horse to dehydrate more quickly, thus potentially causing a need for veterinarian-administered IV fluids.
This year’s DT Horses- and Hashtagssponsored NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman, Shane Steffen, carries an electrolyte he adds to his horses’ water, just in case there is an issue with the different taste, causing the horses to not want to drink..
“The horses that have been hauled a lot, it doesn’t seem to bother them, but the younger horses it seems they may not drink as well,” he said. “A lot of times
we’ll put an electrolyte in there, we’ll start them on it before we go, but it helps with the taste to keep it similar.”
Steffen also takes his time when it comes to offering water to his horses in the trailer.
“I’ve found that we’ll offer them a drink, then I go down the line and come back to them two to three times, and often they’ll drink more the second or third time when I offer them than the first time,” he said.
4. Trailer Temperature. The temperature inside your trailer can fluctuate dramatically, especially if you are hauling within different regions and weather systems. Ventilation can help regulate a lot of those radical changes.
“It can be sub-zero temperatures when you’re hauling across Idaho, and your horses can still be sweating in the trailer if it is all closed up,” said Armentrout. “The ventilation of your trailer is not just to help with respiratory problems, but it also can also help with overheating.”
On the flip side, Armentrout continued, ventilation can only help you so much when hauling across the desert in Nevada and it’s 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Because of that, travelers should look at hauling at night when it’s not as hot, or plan more stops to get the horses out to cool off from being in the trailer.
Driving from his base in Powell Butte, Oregon, Steffen sees that drastic change in temperature often.
“The thing I’ve had to learn to pay attention to is monitoring the temp in the trailer and the horses, making sure they’re comfortable, opening and closing the vents and windows—I probably stop and do that more than anything,” he said. “I stop and check the horses’ temps and the trailer’s temp to keep them from being too cold or too hot. That’s a big part
Tires with good tread is the first thing to check on the tow vehicle and trailer. No matter the tire’s age, though, the proper tools to handle a breakdown are also something everyone should carry.
Shane Steffen travels from Oregon to many shows in warmer climates that are many hours from his facility. Keeping his horses healthy is a priority.
of hauling your horses and keeping them healthy is being aware of that.”
SAFETY CONCERNS
When it comes to hauling, no matter the distance, safety of the towing vehicle, trailer, horse and human should be considered as part of pre-planning your trip.
1. Tow Vehicle. Keep all tow vehicles on a regular maintenance schedule, ensuring that the oil has been changed and topped off, belts are in good shape, tires are inflated to the appropriate weight and everything has been checked at least twice. Have a spare tire or two inflated and ready. It can be nerve-wracking to be stranded on the side of the interstate with a blown tire, or worse, a blown engine.
2. Horse Trailer. Doing a multi-point inspection of your horse trailer will also give you peace of mind. Lights and brakes should be in proper working order. Check that the tires are properly inflated, including the spare, that you have a jack available for use and that your truck and trailer tags are up to date.
NRCHA 2020 Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champion Sarah Dawson stresses restocking and packing an equine and human first-aid kit in the trailer and knowing where local veterinarians are located along your route.
3. Leg Wraps. Wrapping your horses’ legs for travel can be an individual choice for each horse dependent on the weather. Armentrout explained that if you plan to haul through some extreme heat, standing wraps might not be the best option for a hot horse in a hot trailer. In this case, shipping boots are a better choice.
“You see horses that will kick in the trailer for a multitude of reasons, and shipping boots should be reasonable enough to protect your horse’s legs,” said Armentrout. “I’ve also worked some
horse trailer accidents and have seen the level of protection horses that wear shipping boots or wraps have versus horses that don’t—it can benefit you in one of those worst case scenarios.”
Practice getting your horse comfortable with wearing leg gear during shorter trips, rather than adding this new piece of clothing at the last minute prior to an 18-hour haul.
4. Location. Plan accordingly and plot your travel early.Familiarize yourself with your route well enough to know where the best places are to stop for fuel or to rest. Plan your fueling locations by
knowing your vehicle’s average mileage, so you’re not stuck trying to pull into a tight spot. You also don’t want to pull into a rest stop that might not be safe for horses or humans.
Loading up early leaves plenty of time for travel.
Sarah Dawson and her husband, Chris, travel thousands of miles annually to show horses. Their good road habits help ensure everyone arrives safely and with all the necessary gear.
Amy Armentrout, DVM, stressed the importance of horses having access to good-quality, dustfree hay at all times.
5. Weather. Weather can be a factor yearround. If you travel from one extreme to another, your horses might not be able to adjust accordingly as they ride along in the trailer. Make sure your vents and windows can be opened or closed easily to provide adequate airflow. Also, be prepared to drive through blinding rainstorms, snow flurries and sunshine. If you’re hauling in the heat of the summer, plan to travel at night when the sun isn’t
going to shine on your trailer, thus heating the air to comfortable temperatures. Also, plan more stops along your route to allow for water breaks.
ADDITIONAL TIPS FORA TERRIFIC TRIP
1. Plan. Allow plenty of time for any changes that might need to be made. Check for road construction, monitor weather forecasts, arrange for possible overnights and allow for enough travel time so you don’t feel rushed.
Dawson and her husband, Chris,try to arrive at a show at least one day early to give their horses time to relax in their stalls and take in their new surroundings. “We like to give them time to recover from the road trip,” said Dawson. “If we can, we’ll try to arrive a few days early and let them just stand and be still
CHILLIN’ AT THE HAY-LIDAY INN
Some of NRCHA’s premier events require driving long distances from home, so exhibitors can sightsee across the United States. Here is a list of horse hotels along the way. If you prefer to stop and stay somewhere overnight during a trip, make reservations well in advance. Do your research by shopping around online for horse hotels available along your route and asking for recommendations. Consider the location and safety of the facility and available amenities before making reservations.
The Big Texan Horse Hotel
7701 I-40 East (Exit 75), Amarillo, Texas
800-657-7177
Blake Ranch RV Park & Horse Motel
9315 East Blake Ranch Road, Kingman, Arizona 928-757-3336
Broken M Ranch
2913 Gun Club Road SW, Albuquerque, New Mexico
505-877-9433
BS Ranch AZ
44099 Palo Verde Street, Bouse, Arizona 517-449-5102
Crowleys Ridge Overnite Stabling 1575 New Castle Road, Forrest City, Arkansas 870-633-0518
Empty Saddle RV Park 2500 E. Route 66 Boulevard, Tucumcari, New Mexico
575-461-8623
Gallup Arena and Horse Boarding LLC 6757 Cheney Ranch Loop, Show Low, Arizona 928-537-7396
J.O.B. Horse Motel 15128 SW 59th Street, Yukon, Oklahoma 405-376-4865
J.P.’s Horse Motel
1 Alpha Street, Mentmore, New Mexico 505-722-6744
Lone Star Bed & Bale
500 U.S. Highway 287, Claude, Texas 806-944-5324
Pampered Horse Inn 9130 NE 122, Jones, Oklahoma 405-399-2193
Two B Farms
108 Upper Pine Ridge Road, Russellville, Arkansas 479-970-1915
in the stall for at least 12 hours. We will get them out to longe for a little, then let them just chill in their stall. Their first ride is just some easy loping and letting them see the sights. After a day of that, then they’re ready to tackle the show.”
2. Health Checks. “Before the trailer ride you want to have healthy horses in good body condition and already fit,” said Armentrout. “You want your horse in prime condition because you can’t control everything on the road. Your horse is going to have to balance the entire time you are on the road, spending a lot of energy balancing and shifting weight.”
Have your vet come out to do a thorough health exam of the horses that will be traveling, as well as update all vaccinations. All shows require a clean bill of health and a negative Coggins test, but it’s also important to ensure your horse is ready and able to handle the trip ahead.
3. Pack Plenty of Food. Keep your horse on a consistent feeding schedule, while also feeding the same grain and hay you do at home. If you’re traveling during your horses’ normal feeding time, allow your horses to eat while stopped for a period of time. Pack enough hay and grain to allow for consistency, but if you run low on supplies allow for a mixture of new and current grain and hay for an easier transition.
4. Ready to Clean. Pack your own cleaning and sanitation supplies to prepare your horses’ overnight facilities. While most horse hotels sanitize between visitors, you can never be too careful about reducing your horses’ risk of contracting contagious diseases such as strangles or equine herpesvirus. Armentrout recommends using a garden sprayer mixed with a 10 percent bleach solution and having it on hand to quickly spray stalls and equipment.
ND-OF-THE-YEAR ELITE E
A year’s work culminates in a national title for diligent NRCHA competitors.
Open Bridle
JAY MCLAUGHLIN & SHINEY OUTLAW FOR MICHELLE CANNON
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“At the Derby, he was a 225 down the fence in the Open Bridle Spectacular, which was also the Open Bridle. I would say that would be the moment I remember the most.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“There was really no challenge. I was getting him ready for World’s Greatest Horseman [where he was reserve champion]. You can gallop him through and win at smaller shows. He does stuff so physical that he doesn’t have to be going fast to do it.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“He’s strong and he’s got a lot of presence to him. He demands people sit up and take note.”
The 2020 national champion in Open Two Rein repeated his run with a national title in his first year in Open Bridle.
Jay McLaughlin rode 2012 buckskin stallion Shiney Outlaw (Shiners Nickle x Mereyda x Dual Rey) for Michelle Cannon to the title. The stallion took to the bridle competition with no difficulties at all, McLaughlin said.
“He’s quite the individual,” McLaughlin said. “Big heart. This year, [Michelle Cannon] wanted to try to do the bridle title and I didn’t trailer-race on him—he just won a bunch.”
Shiney Outlaw entered McLaughlin’s program in mid-2019 and has since become a working cow horse on the Salt Fork Cattle Co. Ranch near Clarendon, Texas.
“Since I got him, I’ve been roping on him,” McLaughlin said. “We doctor cows on him and everything else [on the ranch]. He doesn’t get worked at home very much—he goes and works. He enjoys it and it freshens him up. We go to brandings.”
The stallion will continue to be shown occasionally through the next year, McLaughlin said, and he’ll continue to work on the ranch while Cannon manages the horse’s breeding career.
By Larri Jo Starkey Photos by Primo Morales
During the 2021 National Reined Cow Horse Association Celebration of Champions, riders worked toward one final show season goal, the prestigious year-end national title that comes with earning the most points in a respective division. Here are the elite riders and their equine partners who earned coveted year-end titles.
Limited Open Bridle
BOB GRANT & NIC IT SMARTLY FOR OWNERCYNTHIA BAKER
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“I was at the Stallion Stakes and the horse that was second in the world [PaddysStarlightChic], I won the Stallion Stakes Limited Open and that was a pretty good highlight for me.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“Finding shows! Shows were canceled and rescheduled, and we never knew what we were doing. We wound up going to a lot of horse shows. All in all, in the horse show world, it kind of worked out.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“Reading a cow down the fence. This horse frames up and runs circles like a machine. Wind him up and let him go.”
Bob Grant of Camp Verde, Arizona, made his mark on this year’s Limited Open Bridle competition.
“We won the world and had three horses that were 1, 2 and 3 in the world,” Grant said. “I showed four and made the finals with three.”
And that third-place horse became the national champion in the class.
A 2008 gelding, Nic It Smartly (Nic It In The Bud x Shining Smartly x Shining Spark) is consistency personified, Grant said.
“He is a precise little machine,” Grant said. “He’s a feely kind of horse and particular. He’s just accurate. His rein work—he’s a machine. He’s good on a cow and he can be aggressive on a cow, but sometimes he’s scared to death of a cow.”
Owner Cynthia Baker of Prescott, Arizona, competes in the boxing level classes on “Sparky.”
“He’ll never go anywhere,” Grant said.
“She loves the horse. He’s good to her, and he’s a character.”
Another of Baker’s horses, Caymus Pepto, was the world champion in the class.
Non Pro Bridle
AMY BAILEY & ELECTRA TUFF
Amy Bailey of Sparta, Tennessee, has won many prizes in NRCHA , but she has never been national champion—until this year.
She made that goal happen on the 2012 gelding Electra Tuff (Woody Be Tuff x Electras Boots x Doc O Boots), a horse she bought as a Derby prospect.
“I do love this horse,” Bailey said. “He’s quirky, but he likes me. I’ve not really had a horse that really liked me before, and he’s so particular about people.”
Though Bailey ticked off a bucket-list item with the national championship, she has at least one goal left to accomplish: win the Non Pro Bridle world championship. Bailey and Electra Tuff were reserve world champions in the class this year.
“Before the World Show, I was in second place in the national standings,” Bailey said. “I had to make the finals and place to get ahead. You have to respect your competition because there’s no playing around. [Exhibitors are] good on both ends now. The national championship doesn’t end until the World Show class has been placed.”
Bailey’s husband, Paul, came off his horse the day before the Non Pro Bridle finals, adding to her stress, but he was able to make it to the arena to cheer for her in the finals.
“I want to thank Paul and [trainer] Robert Chown—Paul for all his support and always pushing me, and Robert for training ‘Woodrow’ and coaching me for 13 years,” she said.
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“In Hamilton, Texas, I was in the Non Pro Bridle Spectacular, and when we did the cow work, the cow came off the fence and my horse guided easily. I went by and I knew it was a good run, and it felt good. Everything the cow threw at me, like not staying on the wall, my horse just took care of. That was my first show after COVID, in May. That was a special show because of being back at the horse show. I went to a place I had never shown, and the cow was tough, and I handled it.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“The biggest challenge was I had an accident [the last week of June] while I was riding him. The next time I rode him was at the East Coast Derby in July. That was the hardest comeback. The second hardest thing was at [the Celebration of Champions] in the finals after being at the hospital [the night before] with Paul. I did not practice with my horse, I did not school my horse in the arena, and I had about three hours of sleep. Robert said he couldn’t help me because he was scheduled to show his hackamore horse at the same time I was showing.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent? “Coming out of a fence turn. It is very hard for me to keep up with him out of a fence turn.”
Youth Cow Horse
CUTTER McLAUGHLIN & DT WHISKEY SHINE OWNED BY JAY AND WENDY McLAUGHLIN
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“The Snaffle Bit Futurity—his class there and his classes at the world championships. He was great. I couldn’t have asked him to be better.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“It was a good year. I was lucky to have three horses this year and show them. He’s a consistent horse. He does his job if I go ride him correctly.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“He is great all the way around. He goes down the fence phenomenal. He’s super cool down the fence, especially for being as big as he is. He also goes and reins really good. I’m lucky to have him.”
A longtime partnership paid off with a national championship for Cutter McLaughlin and DT Whiskey Shine. The 2012 gelding (Paddys Irish Whiskey x Smart Shinealo x Smart Shiner) has been with the McLaughlins since age 6.
“He’s been mine pretty much since we’ve had him,” McLaughlin said. “He’s literally a gentle giant. He’s 16 hands tall. He’s so athletic for how big he is. He’s just the kindest horse. He’s cool and willing.”
On their way to the national title, McLaughlin and DT Whiskey Shine, aka “Yahtzee,” were reserve world champions at the American Quarter H orse Youth A ssociation World Championship Show, right behind McLaughlin and CD Dee Vee Dee. In the NRCHA world championships, McLaughlin was fourth on DT Whiskey Shine, third on CD Dee Vee Dee and sixth on WR This Cats Sporty.
Novice Non Pro Bridle
ALLYSON DEE TAPIE & JJ CAT O LENA
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“It took me a little bit to learn how to ride her. She’s my first Open-caliber horse I’ve ever ridden, so it took me a little bit of time to get used to the power.
“At the Snaffle Bit Futurity, we went in and just had a fantastic run. I don’t know what else to say. [What made it fantastic] was the energy I felt from her and from me going into the arena and everything just felt right. She stayed with me the entire time, and going down the fence, she hooked onto the cow and away we went.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“The biggest challenge for me personally was learning rating going down the fence and learning to trust that she knows her job. It took me a while to learn to trust her. Once I focused on me and let her do her job, things got much easier.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“She’s got a heart of gold and more try and patience than anything I’ve ridden. She takes care of me no matter what. She is just consistent in reining and in the fence work and everything that she does.”
In her third year of showing JJ Cat O Lena, Allyson Tapie won the 2020 national championship in Novice Non Pro Bridle.
“As the year progressed, we were running for regional titles, and the next thing you know, we were looking and figured out I was pretty close to [the national title],” Tapie said. “That mare has been a lot of fun. Lance Johnston bought her from the sale in Reno as a yearling, and she was started at his place. Aaron Brookshire, who is my fiancé, actually bought her from Lance for a client, Linda Collins, who’s also a good friend of ours. She was a 2015 Snaffle Bit Top 10 Limited Open Finalist with Aaron, and he also showed her through her hackamore year, and then we had the opportunity to buy her.”
Tapie and JJ Cat O Lena (Bet Hesa Cat x Christa Lena Hickory x Docs Hickory) made the Non Pro Limited Finals in 2018, the Non Pro Two Rein finals in 2019, and then the Intermediate and Novice Non Pro Finals in 2020.
Intermediate Non Pro Bridle
NICOLE WESTFALL & PEPPYS ROYAL OUTLAW
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020? “I think it would be just to be reserve on him. It was the first world show title I’ve won.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season? “Trying to get to shows and keep my horse prepared and schooled. I showed mostly at Colorado Reined Cowhorse Association Shows, and I took him to a few major events where I showed him.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent? “He is a big, big turner, and he’s huge down the fence.”
Nicole Westfall made 2020 count in her last year of eligibility for Intermediate Non Pro Bridle, finishing the year with the national championship.
Westfall had sold her previous bridle horse in June, so she and her parents, Desiree and Jeff Westfall, bought a 2016 gelding, Peppys Royal Outlaw (Royal Fletch x Peppys Tachita x Peppy San Badger).
“I needed something to show and found this horse by accident,” Westfall said. “I didn’t think I was going to have quite the year I did with him. I just needed something to show. He’s an incredible horse and he exceeded my expectations. We won the nation in Intermediate, and I had only shown him for half the year.”
When Westfall isn’t riding, she’s running her business, Top Choice Performance Horses, which specializes in equine marketing and sales.
On the way to the national championship, Westfall and Peppys Royal Outlaw were reserve world champions in the class.
“[The national title] is a goal that I’ve been working toward for a long time,” Westfall said. “It was really cool because I’m out of Intermediate after this year so to get that accomplishment was really cool.”
EARNER OF $200,000+
2014 Red Roan Stallion
5 Panel N/N
Bet Hesa Cat x Sparking Train
LTE $112,274, PE $467,857 by Shining Spark
Owned by:
Kathryn & Layn Phillips
Standing at:
808 Ranch | Clements, CA
For more information:
Edsall Performance Horses
[406] 925-0786
2020 NRCHA Derby Two Rein Spectacular Champion
2019 NRCHA Open Derby Champion
2019 NRCHA Open Hackamore Classic Champion
2018 NRCHA Open Derby Res. Champion
2018 NRCHA Int. Open Derby Champion
2017 NSHA RCH Int. Open Futurity Champion
2017 NRCHA Futurity 2YO Open Sale Incentive Champion
2018 NRCHA Celebration of Champions Open Derby, 3rd 2017 NSHA RCH Open Futurity, 4th
2018 NRCHA Int. Open Stakes, 3rd
2018 NRCHA Open Stakes, 10th
TRAINED & SHOWN BY CLAYTON EDSALL
Open Hackamore
LANCE JOHNSTON & ANNIES SMART CAT OWNED BY ROCKING BS RANCH
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“I told Brent it would be this year’s Stallion Stakes before we picked up a significant check. He was third at the Hackamore Classic during the Snaffle Bit Futurity.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“The biggest challenge was him and I coming together. In Open, you have to be dialed into each other. He needed more confidence in what I was doing. Because he’s so great-minded, he was able to progress faster than I had expected.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“He’s a mental rock. He’s so good-minded. And everybody calls him ‘sexy’—the way he moves, the way he looks. Another horse could be doing something twice as good as him and he looks better doing it because he’s so sexy.”
L ance Johnston first spotted Annies Smart Cat during the NRCHA Celebration of Champions when Matt Koch was loping him in the practice arena. Johnston knew instantly that the horse would be perfect for one of his clients.
“I went up to Matt and asked if the horse was for sale, and he said ‘No’, so I said, ‘How much?,’ ” Johnston said. “My client flew in the next day, and it was a done deal.”
The client rode the horse for a year and then didn’t have time for the 2016 stallion by WR This Cats Smart and out of Shiney Nu Annie, by Shining Spark, so Johnston convinced another client, Brent Stewart of Rocking BS Ranch, that he should buy “Wilbur.”
“I said, ‘If I don’t win $100,000 on him in two to three years, we’ll find a trainer who can,” Johnston said. “That’s the kind of horse he is.”
Wilbur had $1,200 in earnings when Stewart bought him. He ended 2020 as national champion in Open Hackamore with more than $40,000 in earnings.
| 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®
Limited Open Hackamore
ALEX ALVES & SMART WITH CHICKS FORA&S PERFORMANCE HORSES
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“It was the Heritage Days Classic Derby in Hamilton, Texas. I went in and I was helping organize the show. I was extremely busy, and I didn’t get the chance to school on him the way I wanted because he’s my own horse. We did not have a good herd work at all, but he made it up in the reining easily and when we went down the fence, he just dominated. We ended up winning the derby there. He dug me out of a hole that show.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“My confidence was the biggest thing. I know I’m mounted on a horse that can win every time he goes somewhere. A lot of it had to do with me getting the butterflies, but when I got the butterflies, he brought me down and said, ‘We got this.’ He’s so good-minded that way.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“He’s a freak athlete. He’s a monster stopping horse and turns on a dime as fast as he can, and will always try his heart out. This horse can run down the fence—he is strong down the fence.”
For most of his life, Alex Alves had dreamed of owning a son of Smart Chic Olena.
“Then when he died, I was heartbroken, because I thought now I’m never going to be able to ever afford one,” Alves said. “[Smart With Chicks] just fell in my lap.”
The 2016 bay stallion by Smart Chic Olena and out of Shining Donna, by Shining Spark, ticked off all boxes Alves had for his dream stallion, including Shining Spark on the bottom side and an amazing physical presence.
“He’s that dark bay with a real nice shape to him,” Alves said. “Perfect lines—he just demands attention as soon as you look at him.”
The horse belonged to a customer, but when she decided to sell, Alves and his wife, Sonja, decided they couldn’t let him go. After the 2020 national championship in Limited Open Hackamore, Smart With Chicks will be shown in derbies this year.
“The end goal is for him to go to World’s Greatest [Horseman],” Alves said.
Non Pro Hackamore
ADDISON COUTTS & SIOUX PER BOOM
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“Probably [the Celebration of Champions] is my most memorable. Winning the collegiate invitational last week and then winning the Non Pro prelims was the most memorable. He just went out there and gave his all, just like every horse show, but he just really laid it all out.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“Getting him to respect the hackamore a little more. In the beginning, it was like going down the fence in a halter. Getting him to realize that when I close my hand, it means come back to me, not just keep going. He was my first hackamore horse.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“He’s super easy. He’s willing to go out and please you. He tries his hardest every time. He has a big heart and tries his best.”
Addison Coutts has had a full year. She bought a new horse, learned to guide one in the hackamore and won a national championship with her North Central Texas College ranch horse team.
She also finished 2020 the NRCHA national Non Pro Hackamore champion and the regional reserve champion in Non Pro Hackamore. She was in the top five of the world Non Pro Hackamore standings after getting the top score in the prelims with 2015 gelding Sioux Per Boom (A Shiner Named Sioux x Boom N Tari x Boomernic).
“This is my first year with this horse,” Coutts said. “I started him in the snaffle at the end of his snaffle year, then picked up the hackamore with [trainer] Christian Lybbert. He really picked it up fast. It was a surprise to me when my mom told me I won the national. I knew that my horse could do it, and he proved to me that he could.”
Coutts had only shown in the bridle before she started showing Sioux Per Boom. Her previous trainer, Sunni McCormick, raised and trained the horse.
“My goal is to keep him until he’s a bridle horse and then I probably will sell him to someone who can be just as successful on him,” Coutts said. “Mom says you can’t keep them all, but if he’s strong in the bridle, I’ll probably keep him.”
For 2021, she’ll be showing the horse in the two-rein while studying equine science at NCTC.
“I just work to better myself every day,” she said.
Open Two Rein NICK
DOWERS & STILL GET JEALOUS FOR TRIGG MARQUISS
A hard-luck stallion proved his worth when Still Get Jealous (One Time Pepto x ARC Cat Her Please x Chic Please) and Nick Dowers captured the national championship in Open Two Rein for the horse’s owner, Trigg Marquiss. Dowers has had the 2015 blue roan stallion in training since he was 2.
“We had a little bit of luck on him as a 3-year-old, and then as a 4-year-old he had colic surgery,” Dowers said. “He missed his 4-year-old year then most of his 5-yearold year because he strained a ligament. That’s why he doesn’t have the earnings I feel like he should have.”
But 2020 was the horse’s year.
“It was the first year in a long while where I had the whole year to get him shown,” he said.
Marquiss bought Still Get Jealous as a yearling, and then put him in training with Dowers on the advice of Jeffrey Matthews.
“Jeffrey called me and said, ‘Hey, you need to meet these people,’ ” Dowers remembered. “He introduced us to them and one thing led to another and they have had horses with me ever since. They’re great people and good customers, and I’m really glad for them.”
Still Get Jealous has a foal crop on the ground, Dowers said, and after breeding this year, he will be pointed toward the 2022 NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman competition, which will offer $100,000 to the winner from sponsors DT Horses, Hashtags and Western Bloodstock.
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“It was the whole end of the year. The last five shows, he either won or was reserve in any class I entered. That was pretty cool—just the consistency we found toward the end of the year. He was able to have a lot of good runs in a row. That speaks to what kind of horse he is.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“The challenge early in the year was he had missed so much time. The first show of the year, he was too green. The biggest challenge was getting him caught up and into one hand until he felt good there. We had to fast-track the bridling process. Halfway through the season, he was caught up, and then he was able to do what he needed to do to be successful.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“One of the attributes that I really like about him is he’s got an incredible stop and that he can really run. I don’t feel like any cow is too fast. He can run fast and hit the ground hard. He makes things that are hard seem easy.”
Non Pro Two Rein CUTTER McLAUGHLIN & WR THIS CATS SPORTY FOR OWNERS JAY AND WENDY McLAUGHLIN
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“At the Snaffle Bit Futurity, he was really good in the two rein, then winning the reserve world title on him at the world championships. That was awesome for him becoming a great horse so quickly.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“Figuring him out! He was green. He still is, but he was really green when we started showing so figuring him out and figuring out the two rein was the toughest challenge. After we got together, he was fun to ride and show.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“He’s just fun to ride—he’s fun all the way around. He’s good in the reining. For starting in May, he already reins really good. He’s a great horse.”
WR This Cats Sporty (WR This Cats Smart x Shiney N Sporty x Shining Spark) started 2020 as a tie-down roping horse. He ended it as a national champion with the title in Non Pro Two Rein with Cutter McLaughlin of Clarendon, Texas.
“Dollar” was initially intended as a turnback horse for McLaughlin’s dad, trainer Jay McLaughlin.
“We started cow horse on him a little and took him to his first show in May and he kept going from there,” Cutter McLaughlin said. “It was pretty amazing how quickly he took to it.”
The 2012 gelding was McLaughlin’s first two-rein project.
“It was different,” McLaughlin said. “I learned more and more how to hold the reins. It got simpler to me the more we showed.”
On the way to the national title, McLaughlin and WR This Cats Sporty were reserve world champions in the class.
“He’s really, really, really good down the fence,” McLaughlin said. “I’m hoping I get to show him in some bridle spectaculars this year and bridle classes.
“I’d really like to thank Tom and Karen Walters for selling us that horse.”
Non Pro Limited
HEATHER VATCHER & SIPPIN BOONS FARM
The moment that Heather Vatcher saw a Facebook ad for Sippin Boons Farm, she was on the phone for a test ride. The 2012 gelding had been with trainer Corey Cushing, who lives just down the road from Vatcher, and she knew the horse’s beauty and his power. She wasn’t sure she was ready for an openlevel horse, but she was ready to try. In 2020, Vatcher and Sippin Boons Farm (Smart Boons x Peppy Nicolena x Nic It In The Bud) won regional $5,000 and Non Pro Limited titles on their way to the national championship in the Non Pro Limited. Currently, Vatcher trains with Bob Avila.
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment of 2020?
“We had a good year. Stallion Stakes was our first NRCHA bronze that we won at the 5K. We were steady all year long, but I had yet to win a major event. We came close at the Derby. We had a tie and I came second from the cow work, but we had yet to win a major event. That was really big for us because we had to come together as a team. That competition at the Stakes was crazy.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“He colicked in September, so even after colic surgery, after taking off from the beginning of September until the year end, he still was far enough ahead where we won the championships for the year. I almost lost him. We got there, and they watched him for maybe two minutes, then they took him to surgery. It was very, very close. It was terrifying. He’s my partner. He’s my best friend. It was awful, but he’s coming back and he’s stronger than ever now.”
What’s your horse’s most special physical talent?
“In the show ring, his ability to read a cow and make those moves is by far beyond anything I’ve ever felt before. He’s got such a nice, deep smooth stop and comeback through, that it makes him easy to sit, easy to ride, as long as you let him do his job and don’t get in his way, which was hard. We Non Pros micromanage, and he didn’t like the micromanagement! Or he would let me do it my way and we wouldn’t do as well.
“We’ve learned to become a good team. He’s instrumental in everything. This is only my third year doing this, and he was a big step up for me from the horse I had before him. I really didn’t think I’d be able to do it for a little while, but I bought him and we went to Sun Circuit that next show (in 2019) and he won the $1,000. I had never ridden him or shown him before then. We also won a saddle—our one and only saddle—so that was also a milestone.”
$1,000 Non Pro Limited, $5,000 Non Pro Limited KELSEY DELAPLAINE & STARLIGHT DRIVER
In 2019, then-reiner Kelsey Delaplaine of Cleburne, Texas, decided to try reined cow horse, with a thought to competing in Stock Horse of Texas events.
In 2020, she started showing in NRCHA events. She completed the season by winning the national championship in the $1,000 Non Pro Limited and $5,000 Non Pro Limited classes on Starlight Driver, a 2015 gelding (Hydrive Cat x Starlights Lynn x Grays Starlight).
“It’s unbelievable,” Delaplaine said. “It hasn’t sunk in yet that I won what I did this week.”
In addition to the national championships, Delaplaine and “Driver” were world champions in the $1,000 class and reserve world champions in the $5,000 class.
“Danielle Lybbert has a video on her phone of the first time I ever showed at a cow horse show and it is like night and day difference of what it looks like now when we walk in the pen,” said Delaplaine, who trains with Christian and Danielle Lybbert.
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“[My most memorable moment] was when I went to my first NRCHA premier event, which was the Eastern Derby in Tennessee. I had a great weekend. I think I ended up fifth in the Derby and then I was high-point for the weekend in the $5,000 and the $1,000 and won the first two buckles I had won in six years. I’ll never forget my fiancé Brett [Fulmer] and I were in the barn, cleaning stalls, and [the show] announced it, and I started jumping up and down and crying. I wanted to win a buckle so bad, because it had been so long.
“I’m just so blessed. I never thought I’d be where I am right now and couldn’t do it without the support of my family and Brett and the amazing friendships I’ve built from moving to Texas and of course, Christian and Danielle. I definitely would not be where I am without them. I’m thankful for where God has put me in life and the people he has surrounded me with.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“Competing against horses and exhibitors who keep their horses in training full time and have been showing in NRCHA a lot longer than I have. I keep Driver at my house. I haul to Christian Lybbert’s for lessons. In all of 2020, I think Driver spent a total of a month at his house. That’s my biggest challenge.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“He literally pluses every maneuver in the reining, but he’s so cowy. With my reining background, I have experience there, but I also feel like I have helped him there. In the cow side, I have no experience, so he totally has saved me, I don’t even know how many times. He says, ‘Mom, put your hand down and let me get this done.’ ” If I ask him to do the wrong thing, he still wants to do the right thing.”
Youth Limited
JUBILEE STRINGFELLOW & JILLS LAST BET
Jubilee Stringfellow went from zero experience in cow horse to national champion and world champion in just a year on 2014 mare Jills Last Bet (Bet Hesa Cat x Shiners Diamond Jill x Shining Spark).
“We bought her from Robert and Cheryl Chown in December 2019, so I’ve had her a little over a year now,” Stringfellow said. “This is my first big purchase of a good-quality horse, so it was awesome to get to ride something that is this good. When I got her was when I started riding cow horse. I mainly did 4-H, so it was a big level jump for me.
“Personality-wise, she’s super sweet. She’s always letting me hug on her. I love that about her.”
Winning a title was one of Stringfellow’s goals at the beginning of the year when she began training with Robert Chown.
“My other goal was to be able to compete at the AQHA Youth World, and we won reserve there, so after that, it was my goal to win the NRCHA World Show and the national title,” Stringfellow said.
She has a few goals set for the 2021 show season but isn’t sure whether going down the fence is one of them.
“I need to get better with my hand,” she said. “I’m still pretty new at it. I’ve talked with my trainer and we’ve worked on it. I’m going to keep training and riding.”
Stringfellow wanted to thank the Chowns, as well as her parents, Curtis and Hayley Stringfellow.
What was your most memorable NRCHA show moment in 2020?
“Definitely the world title! That was my first time, and it was wonderful. It was a huge moment for me.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the show season?
“It was a challenge putting all the different components together. I was new at reining, new at cow horse and it was just trying to figure out everything and make it work together. I’ve had some success, but everything hasn’t clicked 100 percent.”
What is your horse’s most special physical talent?
“Physically, she is such a huge stopper. She’s super good on a cow, but she’s always dragging her butt everywhere.”
TIE THE KNOT
With these tips, use the sheet bend and ring knot to secure California hangers and jaw straps.
Jaw straps are attached to California hackamore hangers to keep the hanger, or leather piece, away from a horse’s eyes. Once the hackamore is on, a smooth, flat knot, known as a ring knot variation, will do a slick job of attaching the near side of the jaw strap to the hanger to keep the jaw strap in place.
To secure the hanger, tie a sheep bend knot, in the hanger’s near side. This is the same knot used to tie rope halters and fiadors on a horse. It can be taken up or let out to adjust the length of the hanger. Both of these knots are easy to learn and quick to tie.
To tie the ring knot variation in the jaw strap:
1. Working from the near side of the horse and looking at the jaw strap, place the tail end of the jaw strap over the top of the California hanger strap, from front to back. Bring the tail through and place it over and to the right of the body of the jaw strap.
2. Thread the tail of the jaw strap under the California hanger strap, on the right side of the body of the jaw strap.
3. Bring the tail through the loop formed in Step 2.
4. Pull the knot just enough to secure it.
To tie the sheet bend knot in the hanger:
1. Hold the cheek strap on the near side of the hanger in your left hand and open the slits at the top of the strap.
2. With your right hand, thread the tail of the hanger through the slits from back to front. Pull the tail through until the hanger looks approximately the correct length to fit.
3. Hold the portion of the tail end of the strap that is now next to the slits in the cheek piece with your left thumb and index finger. Steady the cheek piece with your other three fingers.
4. With your right hand, going from left to right, bring the end of the tail of the hanger around and behind the cheek piece
with the slits. As you go, keep an opening between the strap you are holding in your left hand and the cheek piece.
5. Continue around and behind the cheek piece with the tail of the strap, until you reach the opening. Place the end of the tail through the opening from back to front.
6. Close the opening by pulling the knot just so it’s snug. The tail of the hanger should now be pointing toward the back of the horse.
Adjust the hanger length with the sheet bend knot until the hackamore lies evenly between the inside corner of the horse’s eye and the bottom of the nostril. Adjust the length further if needed for best fit and function on each horse.
Secure the jaw strap with the ring knot variation and you’re ready to ride.
///// MEET DENNIS MORELAND
member Dennis Moreland, owner of Dennis Moreland Tack, has been making quality working and show tack since 1976. Dennis Moreland Tack is a full-line manufacturer of quality handmade tack and he is here to help you. Visit www.dmtack.com or call 817-312-5305 to see how Dennis can help you with your tack needs.
Alberta Reined Cow Horse Association
Terri Holowath
250, 200 Quarry Park Blvd SE Calgary AB T2C 5E3 CANADA
Phone: 403-652-8206
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
Lia Savas
53 Deerpath Rd Central Islip, NY 11722
Phone: 631-766-0155
Email: LiaARCHA@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 Reined Cow Horse Association
Stacy Duesterhaus 15169 Road 223 Porterville, CA 93257
Phone: 559-999-8146
Email: califcowhorse@gmail.com Website: www.californiacowhorse.com
Central Montana Reined Cow Horse Association
Jill Roberts
1521 Parr Creek Ln
Lewistown, MT 59457
Phone: 406-538-7564
Email: vjroberts@hughes.net
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
AFFILIATE LISTING
Current as of March 1, 2021
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
Callee Miller
301 Market Rd
Caldwell ID 83607
541-519-4748
Cowhorse22@gmail.com
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 Association
Paxton Deal
509 S 2nd St
Homedale, ID 83628
Phone: 208-880-9066
Email: paxtondeal@gmail.com
Website: www.idahoreinedcowhorse.com
Italian Reined Cow Horse Association
Laura Ruffino Vercellino
Via Grilloni 2
22100 Como ITALY
Phone: +39 347 26 22 783
Email: segreteria.ircha@gmail.com
Website: https: nrchaofitaly.com
Magic Valley RCHA
Nikki Francis
3644 N 3300 E
Kimberly ID 83341
Phone: 208-539-5410
Email: vpnikki@gmail.com
Website: www.intermountaincircuit.org
Mid State Cow Horse Association
Sharon Michelucci
2500 Adobe Rd
Paso Robles CA 9344
Phone: 805-835-5014
Email: info@midstatecowhorseassociation.com
Website: www.midstatecowhorseassociation.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 131
Phone: 702-290-4231
Email: aubree.rcha@gmail.com
Website: www.nvrcha.org
New York Reined Cow Horse Association
Lesa Didas
206 Main St Hornell, NY 14843
Phone: 843-441-0618
Email: lisasykes@yahoo.com
Website: www.newyorkrcha.com
North Central Reined Cow Horse Association
Jim Wilson 2409 25th Ave
Rice Lake, WI 54868
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
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
Lane Arnold PO Box 1053 Canyon, TX 79015
Phone: 806-341-0941
Email: panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com
Website: www.panhandlecowhorse.com
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
AFFILIATE LISTING
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
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, Martine , CA
Pat Faitz, Lakeland, FL
Robert Frobose, Modesto, CA
Miguel Gonzalez, Miami, FL
A finance charge of 1. per month 1 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.
Current as of March 1, 2021
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
Elizabeth Winkle, Sarasota, FL
Don Stockman, Dayton, TX
Kinsey Dodson, Cleburne, TX
Oasis Ranch/Pete & Marilyn Bowling, Purcell, OK
Bill Anderson, Merino, CO
Roy Hockensmith, Frankfort, KY
Brian & Cynthia Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Rita F. Ward, Canyon, TX
$16,700+ was paid out in CHROME CASH at NRCHA and APHA cow horse events in 2020!
Don’t miss out on your chance to participate in this class within a class at upcoming 2021 NRCHA & APHA events.
If your AQHA horse has as little as two inches of solid white hair in the qualifying area, you may be eligible for APHA registration. APHA registration is all you need to enter the CHROME CASH class at participating events.
2021 CHROME CASH class participating events
(as of 3/1/2021)
$2,000 ADDED
NRCHA Celebration of Champions
February 11–20, Fort Worth, TX
Sponsored by McSpyder Ranch
NRCHA Stakes
March 26–April 3, Las Vegas, NV
$2,000 ADDED
NRCHA Derby
June 2–12, Scottsdale, AZ
Sponsored by McSpyder Ranch
$7,500 ADDED
APHA World Show
July 2–3, Fort Worth, TX
Enter the CHROME CASH class thru the NRCHA office. For more info on CHROME CASH events and how to register your horse, call Sunny Bates at 817-219-7985 or visit www.apha.com/programs/chromecash
$2,000 ADDED
NRCHA Eastern Derby
July 10–17, Cordova, TN
Sponsored by War Ponies – Elite Paint Cowhorses
$2,000 ADDED
NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity October 8–23, Fort Worth, TX
Sponsored by McSpyder Ranch
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Executive Director: Dr. Anna Morrison
President: Corey Cushing Vice President: Paul Bailey
Secretary: Todd Crawford Treasurer: Trey Neal
Executive Committee: Todd Bergen, Joe Carter, Boyd Rice
Frank Prisco Diane Edwards Amanda Gardinerr Dan Roeser Jon Roeser Jake Telford Cayley Wilson
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
ANIMAL 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 • tbergenhorses@gmail.com
Boyd Rice • boydrice1965@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: Boyd Rice boydrice1965@gmail.com • 806-282-8113
Director of Judges: Bill Enk enk.bill@gmail.com
Dan Roeser • roeserstables@gmail.com
Ron Emmons • ladonadare@me.com
Todd Crawford • toddcrawford333@gmail.com
Darren Miller • dmillerstables@aol.com
Sam Rose • sroseqh@yahoo.com
Todd Bergen • tbergenhorses@gmail.com
NRCHA FOUNDATION
Chairperson: MJ Isakson mj@nrchaf.com
NOMINATING
Chairperson: Jon Roeser tanyaroeser@yahoo.com
NON PRO
Chairperson: Diane Edwards Diane2bph@outlook.com • 206-390-0715
Nelle Murphy • baldnshiney@hotmail.com
Kris Troxel • ktroxel@sitestar.net
Tim Swain • coloradolandandranch@gmail.com
Kathy Ferguson • fergielivestock@yahoo.com
Andi Paul • reinrpaul@aol.com
Parke Greeson • parke.greeson@gmail.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 • jake.telford321@gmail.com
Boyd Rice • boydrice1965@gmail.com
SHOWS
Co-Chairperson: Todd Bergen tbergenhorses@gmail.com 541-778-0980
Co-Chairperson: Boyd Rice boydrice1965@gmail.com • 806-282-8113
SPONSORSHIP
Interim Contact: Anna Morrison anna@nrcha.com • 940-488-1495
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
Elizabeth Ellis • elizabeth@nrcha.com
Todd Crawford • toddcrawford333@gmail.com
SHOW SCHEDULE
Mar 25 - 28 Spring Stakes & Horse Show #1
Mar 26 - Apr 3 NRCHA Stallion Stakes
Mar 27 - 28 Spring Fling
Apr 8 - 11 Derby
Apr 10 - 11 VOLRHA Spring Fling
Apr 14 - 18 CRCHA Paso Robles Derby & Horse Show #3
Apr 15 - 18 April Show
Apr 16 - 18 Dust Off the Saddle Event
Apr 17 - 18 April Showers
Apr 21 - 25 Sagebrush
Apr 23 - 25 Spring Fling
Apr 24 Santa Ynez Valley Cow Horse #2
Apr 28 - May 2 Heritage Days Classic
May 1 - 2 Good To Be Green Classic
May 7 - 8 Cowgirl Classic #1 & #2
May 7 - 9 Spring Spectacular Event
May 10 - 16 Wild Rag Cattle Classic
May 15 - 16 May Flowers
May 15 - 16 Jimmy Flores Sr. Memorial
May 19 - 23 Drought Buster
May 21 - 22 CRCHA Spring Spectacular & Horse Show #4
May 22 - 23 VOLRHA Salute the Troops
May 22 - 23 Cow Horse Boogie
May 22 - 23 Windy City Warm Up
HS / LAE / Cat 1 Travagliato, Italy European RCHA
Otto De Fazio (39338) 886-0657 ercha@hotmail.it
HS / LAE / Cat 1 Las Vegas, NV NRCHA (940) 488-1500 info@nrcha.com
HS / Cat 1 Lubbock, TX Panhandle RCHA Nelle Murphy (580) 276-0761 panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Cordova, TN
HS / LAE / Cat 1 Paso Robles, CA California RCHA
HS / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Ardmore, OK Southwest RCHA
HS / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Winona, MN North Central RCHA
HS / Cat 1 Sarasota, FL Gulf Coast CHA
Jun 5 - 6 Silver Spur Classic
Jun 17 - 20 June Summer Spectacular
Jun 19 - 20 River Classic
Jun 26 CRCHA Horse Show #5
LAE / Cat 1 Cremona, Italy Italian RCHA Laura Ruffino Vercellino 39 347 1104168 spotlightnic@hotmail.it
Katie Hutton (870) 514-7074 kmhutton4@gmail.com
Pamela Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org
HS / Cat 1 Santa Ynez, CA
Laura Norman (559) 760-2769 crcha@saddle-upenterprises.com
Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com
Claudia Nichols (772) 321-9637 claudia.horseshow@gmail.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Pueblo, CO Colorado RCA Kelley Hartranft crcaentries@yahoo.com
HS / Cat 1 New Roads, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com
Carol Sutton (805) 260-4535 info@syvch.org
HS / Cat 1 Amarillo, TX South Texas RCHA Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 southtexasrcha@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com
HS / Cat 1 Eugene, OR Northwest RCHA Keri Croft (503) 701-3305 dkcroft4@frontier.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Winona, MN North Central RCHA Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Fort Worth, TX Southwest RCHA Pamela Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org
HS / Cat 1 Sarasota, FL Gulf Coast CHA Claudia Nichols (772) 321-9637 claudia.horseshow@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 socalrcha@aol.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 / Cat 2 McCook, NE Colorado RCA Allison Walker (937) 725-1423 crcaentries@yahoo.com
HS / Cat 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA Laura Norman (559) 760-2769 crcha@saddle-upenterprises.com
HS / Cat 1 Murfreesboro, TN Katie Hutton (870) 514-7074 kmhutton4@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Amite City, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Amarillo, TX Panhandle RCHA Nelle Murphy (580) 276-0761 panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com
Jun 2 - 12 NRCHA Western Derby HS / LAE / Cat 1 Scottsdale, AZ NRCHA (940) 488-1500 info@nrcha.com
HS / Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 Ardmore, OK Southwest RCHA Pamela Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org
HS / Cat 1 New Roads, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA Laura Norman (559) 760-2769 crcha@saddle-upenterprises.com
Jun 29 - Jul 4 Firecracker HS / LAE / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Douglas, WY Colorado RCA Allison Walker (937) 725-1423 crcaentries@yahoo.com
Jul 8 - 11 GSSHA Cow Horse Derby, and All Around Bridle HS / LAE / Cat 1 Nampa, ID Gem State Stock Horse Asso. Nikki Francis (208) 539-5410 vpnikki@gmail.com
Jul 9 - 11 Red Dirt Rendevous HS / LAE / Cat 1 Amarillo, TX Panhandle RCHA Nelle Murphy (580) 276-0761 panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com
Jul 10 - 17 NRCHA Eastern Derby HS / LAE / Cat 1 Memphis, TN NRCHA (940) 488-1500 info@nrcha.com
Jul 24 - 25 Cowboy Classic
Jul 31 - Aug 1 The Grant Berg Memorial
Aug 7 Mid State Cow Horse Association Show #2
Aug 10 - 15 Pre Futurity & Horse Show
Aug 13 - 15 Summer Show
Aug 14 CRCHA Horse Show #7
Aug 21 - 22 Cowgirl Classic
Aug 26 - 29 West Slope Pre-Futurity
Sep 10 - 12 Cow Horse Express
Sep 11 - 12 September Classic
Sep 14 - 19 Mid America
Sep 25 - 26 Fall Into Autumn
Oct - 23 NRCHA Snaf e Bit Futurity
Oct 9 - 10 Yahoo Buckaroo
Oct 27 - 31 Colorado Futurity
Jul 24 CRCHA Horse Show #6 HS / Cat 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA Laura Norman (559) 760-2769 crcha@saddle-upenterprises.com
HS / Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com
HS / Cat 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 socalrcha@aol.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 Fort Worth, TX Southwest RCHA Pamela Humphreys (405) 590-0494 entry@srcha.org
May 29 Mid State Cow Horse Association Show #1 HS / Cat 1 Paso Robles, CA Mid State CHA Sharon Michelucci (805) 835-5014 info@midstatecowhorseassociation.com
HS / Cat 1 Paso Robles, CA Mid State CHA Sharon Michelucci (805) 835-5014 info@midstatecowhorseassociation.com
HS / Cat 1 Hinckley, MN North Central RCHA Jennifer Fjelstad (641) 590-1014 jenfjelstad@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA Laura Norman (559) 760-2769 crcha@saddle-upenterprises.com
HS / Cat 1 Fonda, NY New York RCHA Cindy Pfeifer (585) 749-1764 ppfeifer@rochester.rr.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Montrose, CO Colorado RCA Keri Croft (503) 701-3305 dkroft@frontier.com
HS / Cat 1 Amite City, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com
HS / Cat 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA Kelley Hartranft (714) 267-5912 socalrcha@aol.com
HS / LAE / Cat 1 / Cat 2 Douglas, WY Colorado RCA
Keri Croft (503) 701-3305 dkroft@frontier.com
HS LA Cat 1 Fort Worth, T NRCHA 0 -1 00 info nrcha.com
HS / Cat 1 Lubbock, TX Panhandle RCHA Nelle Murphy (580) 276-0761 panhandlecowhorse@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 Pueblo, CO Colorado RCA Keri Croft (503) 701-3305 dkroft@frontier.com
Oct 30 Mid State Cow Horse Association Show #3 HS / Cat 1 Paso Robles, CA Mid State CHA
Nov 13 - 14 VOLRHA Fall Finale HS / Cat 1 Murfreesboro, TN Katie Hutton (870) 514-7074 kmhutton4@gmail.com LAE = Limited Aged Event, HS = Horse Show
Sharon Michelucci (805) 835-5014 info@midstatecowhorseassociation.com
Nov 12 - 14 CRCHA Horse Show #8 & #9 HS / Cat 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA Laura Norman (559) 760-2769 crcha@saddle-upenterprises.com
Nov 6 - 7 November Show HS / Cat 1 New Roads, LA Southern RCH Alliance Tina McCleary (979) 218-0633 stillcreektina@gmail.com
