NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® COVERAGE HONORING OWNERS AND RIDERS
NRCHA Celebration of Champions February 14–28
World's Greatest Horseman® Finals February 28
NRCHA Stallion Stakes April 2–11
NRCHA Derby May 27–June 6
NRCHA Hackamore Classic July 12–18
NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® October 9–24
CHECK OUT ALL NRCHA-APPROVED SHOWS WITH THE QR CODE.
Ensure that your 2025 foals are nominated to the Cow Horse Incentive program! Learn more online at nrcha.com/nrcha-incentive-program.
Volume 30, Number 5
NRCHA 9702 Mineral Wells Hwy, Weatherford, TX 76088 Phone: 940-488-1500 | Fax: 940-488-1499 | info@nrcha.com | www.NRCHA.com Official Publication of the National Reined Cow Horse Association Published by Equine Network
NRCHA OFFICERS & DIRECTORS
President: Paul Bailey | Vice President: Trey Neal | Treasurer: Todd Crawford | Secretary: Ben Baldus
Executive Director: Emily Konkel | Director of Marketing: Callie Boevers
Director of Incentive & Sponsorship: Patty Tiberg | Director of Judges: Bill Enk Director of Programs: Tara Carter | Director of Shows: Tina McCleary
Official NRCHA Photographer: Primo Morales | Official NRCHA Videographer: Equine Promotion
REINED COW HORSE NEWS
CEO: Tom Winsor | Editor: Jennifer Paulson | Managing Editor: Jennifer Denison Art Director: Michelle Miller | Production Manager: Stacey Horne | Prepress Specialist: Brad Burleson
of material is the sole responsibility of the authors. Unsolicited materials are submitted at the
accepts
responsibility for them. Please address all submissions to: Reined Cow Horse News, 9702 Mineral Wells Hwy, Weatherford, TX 76088. Subscription rate is $45 a year. Periodical postage paid at Weatherford, TX 76088 and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Reined Cow Horse News, 9702 Mineral Wells Hwy, Weatherford, TX 76088
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025
FEATURES
68 Big Shows, Big Money
A liates and prestige events provide increased visibility— and large paychecks— for reined cow horse competitors. Here’s how the they’ve evolved to showcase the best of the sport.
80
Honoring the Riders
e high-scoring riders in each phase of the Open preliminary round of the NRCHA Sna e Bit Futurity® received Streakin’ B Art bronzes to commemorate their achievements.
86
Celebrating the Village
Four horse owners celebrate their Open champions at the 2025 NRCHA Sna e Bit Futurity®, presented by Metallic Cat.
94
The Cowboy Rides Away
Les Vogt lived a life of no fear, no regrets and happy horses. He passed away on September 6, 2025.
DEPARTMENTS
Snaffle Bit Futurity®, Presented by Metallic Cat, Open Futurity
Snaffle Bit Futurity®, Presented by Metallic Cat, Non Pro Futurity
Snaffle
Futurity®, Presented by Metallic Cat, President’s Award
the Front Cover:
Swales catch-rode Bowie Nights for his sister Veronica Swales to win the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open for owners Bar One Land & Cattle LLP. Photo by Primo Morales.
FROM THE PRESIDENT
The 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® was one to remember!
If you weren’t with us in Fort Worth, Texas, in October, you missed out on an NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® for the books! The show looked a little different due to ongoing construction at the Will Rogers Coliseum, but our cow horse family kept spirits high and adapted admirably.
In the arena, we couldn’t have written a better tear-jerking fairytale when John Swales won his first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open title with a horse trained by his sister, Veronica, who’s recovering from an accident. The Non Pro Champion, Myles Brown, finally broke through after numerous second-place finishes. And Tuli Dowers showed us that anything is possible when she took the reins from her dad, NRCHA professional Nick Dowers, to win the Non Pro Boxing Futurity. Learn all about these stories and more beginning on page 104.
We had many fun activities outside the arena. We brought back our Owners’ Reception, thanks to AgTrust Farm Credit and Metallic Cat, with an evening at the Silver Fox. (See photos from that night on page 152.)
Our Western Bloodstock Sales broke records and showed the strength of the cow horse market, which you can read about on page 148. Our first-ever block party, presented by Top Fuel, was a huge success before and during the Open finals. Fans enjoyed food trucks, live music, games and giveaways. And the Open finals after-party, presented by Metallic Cat, allowed us all a chance to celebrate this incredible event together.
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited to open our new office in Weatherford, Texas—right in the heart of cow horse country. This move will make doing business more convenient and help us stay closely connected to the community we serve. We’ll announce an open house soon, and we hope you’ll stop by.
Your NRCHA Board continues to work diligently to set goals and address challenges. One concern we’re keeping a close eye on is cattle availability. We’re developing proactive solutions, but we expect this issue will remain a focus in the coming year.
As we head into the holiday season, I want to thank each of you for your continued support, passion and dedication to the sport we love. May your holidays be filled with joy, rest and time spent with loved ones—and may your horses stay sound and your spirits high as we prepare for our next premier event: the NRCHA Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions
—Paul Bailey
Paul Bailey, NRCHA President
During his career, Smooth As A Cat rst sent shockwaves throughout the industry in theshow pen. Since then, and still today, he continues to astound the performance horse world as a versatile sire whose impact is felt across multiple disciplines including cutting, cow horse, and roping.
• LTE $500,037.51
• NCHA Horse of the Year
• The only NCHA Horse of the Year to sire
2 Open NCHA Horses of the Year
• NCHA Hall of Fame Horse
He’s an incomparable stallion, in both the arena and breeding barn, and that includes his 2026 stud fee:
1st breeding $2500
2nd breeding, half price
Still, the best breeding value out there.
$40 Million Sire
In addition, Smooth As A Cat’s o spring carry intangible traits – the heart and grit of a once-in-a-lifetime horse.
Like all the great ones, time will only boost his accomplishments as future generations contribute to his enduring legacy.
R ecords Set & R esults Delivered!
$350,000
$170,000
$157,000
Buyer
Seller & / , Agent
$165,000
$140,000
Buyer & Seller / , Agent
Buyer Seller Selling Horses that Go the Distance!
FROM THE JUDGE’S CHAIR
Learn about the changes to the boxing scorecard.
The Judges Committee has decided to try to improve the boxing scorecard with the goal of helping to separate works more effectively and also document the facts of the run. The key to any scorecard is to document the run for what actually happened at the time, not what happened in the past or what the future potential is. Done correctly, the scorecard should help determine a score that makes sense to the exhibitor and helps keep the judge in the proper scoring category. There are seven headings on the scorecard.
1. Approach. Is the exhibitor in the proper position to have an immediate influence on the cow when it enters the arena? Does the exhibitor read the cow properly when stepping to the animal? Is it a smooth, calculated approach?
2. Position. Does the exhibitor find and stay in a position to control the animal throughout the work? If the exhibitor is in and out of position, what’s the fair mark for the position box? In this case, it is not all poor or all good, so the score should reflect the poor and good positions and be somewhere in the middle.
3. Form and Correctness. Boxing the animal correctly should show rate, stop and turn, in that order. Exhibiting correctness and good form is the most effective way to work and control a cow. Doing a fence-type turn in the boxing class is not a positive due to the usual rolling up on the cow during the turn. This type of turn makes the exhibitor progressively late during the exit to the turn. Rate, stop, turn—in that order—for positive, higher scores.
4. Control. Control is the ultimate objective when attempting to work a cow. Being able to control an animal that exhibits some degree of difficulty in the middle half of the
arena demonstrates control and should be viewed positively.
5. Degree of Difficulty. The degree of difficulty must come from the animal itself, not from an exhibitor who’s out of or losing position and causes the animal to run. It’s important to recognize the difference and score accordingly. Positive scores come from exhibitors who can control a cow that exhibits a degree of difficulty.
6. Eye Appeal. This is the one strictly opinion box on the scorecard. Judges can use this box to their advantage when attempting to place and separate horses. Excessive pinned ears or tail switching could be negatives, whereas a horse that’s enthusiastic and acts like he likes his job could be a positive. It’s all in the eyes of the beholder.
7. Time Worked. This is basically an exhibitor time-management box. How much of the 50 seconds does the exhibitor actually work the cow? It starts from the time the animal enters the arena. How long does it take to assume a working position? Is the time spent working the cow quality time, or is it just spent standing or chasing the animal back and forth? The “Courage” box was replaced with “Time Worked.” This change was based on some exhibitors’ incorrect interpretation of courage. Continuous activity without setting up the cow and working it with form and correctness doesn’t demonstrate courage in the boxing class.
Buster Welch, a cutting horse legend, summed it up this way: “Don’t mistake activity for achievement.” Form and correctness, along with control and time worked, are all keys to credit-earning runs. Even with a lesser degree of difficulty, these three ingredients beat speed with little or no form and correctness. Visit nrcha.com/judges to familiarize yourself with the 2026 scorecards.
THE KEY TO ANY ScorecArD IS To DocUmeNT THe rUN For WHAT AcTUALLY HAPPeNeD AT THe TIme, NoT WHAT HAPPeNeD IN THe PAST or WHAT THe FUTUre PoTeNTIAL IS.”
—Bill Enk
Bill Enk, NRCHA Director of Judges
FROM THE
The kids kept busy and had lots of fun in Fort Worth.
BY PRIMO MORALES
NRCHYA had an amazing time at the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, October 3–18 in Fort Worth, Texas, with youth events ranging from the Costume Lead Line and Buckaroo classes to dance lessons and art activities. Kids of all ages enjoyed engaging, competitive and exciting games and activities. NRCHYA would like to give a big thank-you to The Winners’ Circle Tutoring, Rebecca Speelman of Code West Scholars and the Sherri Gilkerson Memorial Foundation for sponsoring our youth room.
The youth started on October 10 with a youth meeting at the Watt Arena, followed by Cow Horse’n Around, sponsored by Bet He Sparks, in the John Justin. On October 11, NRCHYA held the Costume Lead Line, sponsored by Bet He Sparks, and the Buckaroo Classes sponsored by Bet He Sparks and Real Cow, in the John Justin Arena. Thank you to all the youth who participated and to all the youth members on and off the NRCHYA board who stayed late to help. Your hard work made many smiles brighter that night!
On October 12, we participated in an art activity with Josey Butler of Streakin’ B Art; a pizza party, sponsored by Bet He Sparks; dance lessons and a goat roping, sponsored by Nu One Time Blues and Tad Sanders. On October 17 and 18, NRCHYA helped with the Stallion Auction during the Western Bloodstock Sale. We thank the 19 owners who kindly donated the proceeds from this stallion auction to support NRCHYA. Additionally, NRCHYA organized a 50/50 raffle to support Veronica Swales, who suffered a serious accident earlier this fall. All tickets were sold, and the raffle winner graciously donated their winnings back to Veronica.
A huge thank you to all the youth members for your participation in these events, and to all the NRCHYA officers and advisors for your hard work and dedication to helping NRCHYA members.
—Cole Hawk, NRCHYA Reporter
Top: The Buckaroo Class lets young riders step up, show off their skills and box the Real Cow. Middle: Nothing builds confidence like getting in there and working a cow in Cow Horse’n Around. Above left: Our Goat Roping had a great turnout, with slick loops and big prizes. Above right: We had so many adorable entries in the Costume Leadline class this year—it was nearly impossible to pick just one favorite! Bottom left : There’s no better way to say “go get ’em” than with handmade posters from our youth cheering on the finalists.
PHOTOS
FROM THE
Thanks for your support during the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®!
The NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® is always special for many reasons, and this year was no exception, both in and out of the arena. The support shown for the NRCHA Foundation during the show left us full of gratitude and excitement about what lies ahead.
During the show, we awarded the NRCHA Merit Scholarship, recognizing NRCHYA members whose achievements reach beyond the show pen. This year’s recipient, Kixi Meador, exemplifies leadership, compassion and drive, balancing a 4.0 GPA with helping her dad in their reined cow horse training business and cross-training at a hunter/jumper barn. Alongside her brother, she built and donated a wheelchair swing for their city park; taught youth sheep showmanship clinics, mentoring more than 20 young exhibitors; and continues a family tradition of honoring veterans each Memorial Day by placing flags on their graves. Through her involvement in 4-H, NRCHYA and multiple equine associations, Kixi continues to grow her leadership and service to others. With dreams of becoming an equine veterinarian, she plans to blend her love for horses with her passion for helping others. She received a $2,500 scholarship from the NRCHA Foundation in recognition of her outstanding achievements.
At the Western Bloodstock Sale, the painting donated by Shannon Lawlor to
support the Foundation sold for $10,000! All that money goes directly to the Foundation. Thanks to Rockin BS Ranch for purchasing it—they consistently show up for your youth and the Foundation. Additionally, the NRCHYA Stallion Auction raised an incredible $68,200 to support youth scholarships and hands-on learning opportunities like our clinics. We are deeply grateful to the stallion owners who donated breedings, and to every bidder and buyer whose generosity makes these programs possible. Together, you’re helping shape the future of the reined cow horse industry.
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to announce a brand-new event debuting at the 2026 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®: Big Guns in Cowtown! Sixteen NRCHA professionals and their seasoned bridle horses will each team up with a Western celebrity or rodeo athlete to make a fence run for all the glory, all while raising funds for the NRCHA Foundation and other charitable causes. This ticketed event will light up Will Rogers Coliseum in Fort Worth. It’s set to be a high-energy night bringing together the best of the Western world for an unforgettable evening of competition, camaraderie and giving back. Stay tuned for ticket information and ways to get involved—you won’t want to miss the biggest show in Cowtown!
2026 NRCHA FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairperson: Chelsea Edsall
Vice Chairperson: Kristen Cushing
Secretary: Mindy Barkemeyer
Treasurer: Todd Crawford
Board Members: Abrian Bass
Frank Costantini
Amanda Kimes
Linda McMahon
Kathryn Phillips
Chelsea Edsall, NRCHA Foundation Chairperson
CIRCLE UP
Keep Cow Horse Connected
HOLIDAY AUTO GROUP JOINS NRCHA’S
ROSTER OF PARTNERS
NRCHA welcomes Holiday Auto Group to its valued team of partners who support reined cow horses, their owners and breeders and NRCHA members. At every NRCHA premier event, you’ll see a signature Holiday Auto Group truck wrapped in NRCHA branding.
“Partnering with NRCHA was a natural decision for Holiday Auto Group because our values and culture strongly align with those found in Western sports,” shared Holiday Auto Group Assistant General Manager Stephen Payne.
“All our dealerships are located in rural areas where agriculture, farming and ranching aren’t just industries, they’re a way of life. Our customers and employees are deeply rooted in these communities and share a genuine passion for the Western lifestyle. NRCHA represents the same hardworking, honest and community-driven spirit that defines both our business and our customer base.”
Holiday Auto Group is family-owned by Matt Johnson and led by Alvin Childress and Stephen Payne. They proudly serve rural Texas with five dealerships—two in Whitesboro, two in Graham and the oldest Ford dealership in Texas located in Gordon. They’ll open a brand-new, King Ranch-themed Ford store in Gordon, off Interstate 20, by the end of the year.
Holiday specializes in all domestic truck brands: Ford, Chevy, GMC and Ram. They focus on low-pressure sales and creating a small-town, customer-first experience where the focus isn’t on numbers, it’s on people. Learn more about Holiday Auto Group and its offerings at holidayautogroup.com
MAJOR MILESTONES CROSSED S
ince September, an incredible number of horses and riders have crossed earnings thresholds. Read about each of these achievements on nrcha.com.
MILLION DOLLAR RIDERS
Brandon Buttars: $1 Million
Ron Emmons: $1 Million
Tucker Robinson: $1 Million
Shane Stef fen: $1 Million
Zane Davis: $2 Million
Clayton Edsall: $2 Million
MILLION DOLLAR SIRES
Call Me Mitch: $1 Million
Reyzin The Cash: $1 Million
Scooter Kat: $1 Million
Metallic Rebel: $2 Million
WR This Cats Smart: $7 Million
Metallic Cat: $9 Million
LEADING DAMS
Never Reylinquish: $500,000 Dam
Shiney Nu Annie: $500,000 Dam
PRIEFERT JOINS NRCHA’S ROSTER OF SPONSORS
NRCHA welcomes Priefert to its valued team of partners who support reined cow horses, their owners and breeders and NRCHA members. Priefert will step up to provide Priefert panel equipment during NRCHA events held in Fort Worth, Texas, including the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, NRCHA Celebration of Champions and NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman®.
“NRCHA is a natural partner for Priefert because of its dedication to excellence, integrity and the Western lifestyle—values that align perfectly with our own,” said Sara Rader, Priefert Public Relations Coordinator. “Both organizations share a commitment to supporting the equine and ranching communities through education, competition and high-quality equipment.”
Founded in 1964, Priefert is one of the largest farm, ranch and rodeo equipment manufacturers in the world and is a leading innovator in the livestock-handling industry. Priefert oversees every step of the manufacturing process, from raw steel to finished product. Located outside Mount Pleasant, Texas, the family ranch is the proving ground for all Priefert products—built by ranchers for ranchers. The Priefert team looks forward to many opportunities to connect with owners, breeders and riders in the cow horse community.
“We’re most excited about strengthening our relationship with NRCHA members, supporting their growth and success and providing opportunities for education and hands-on experiences,” Rader continued. “This partnership allows us to celebrate the Western lifestyle together, share innovations in ranch equipment and continue fostering a community that values integrity, skill and tradition in the reined cow horse industry.”
Learn more about Priefert and its line of products that are perfect for your facility or ranch at priefert.com
Thank you to these supporters for contributing to the added-money purse for the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®!
RICKY BOBBY BOON + DEBBIE CRAFTON
Reserve Champion
Non Pro Hackamore
JUST A STYLISH BOON + SHANNON HASKINS
Reserve Champion Non Pro Futurity Champion Intermediate + Limited Non Pro
SHEBOONZY+ NICOLE PETTY
Non Pro Boxing Futurity
Reserve Champion
SHEBOONZY + BUBBA PETTY
Non Pro + Intermediate Non Pro Futurity Finalist
THE NEW INCENTIVE PROGRAM THAT WILL TRANSFORM THE SPORT OF REINED COW HORSE
Years listed for stallions indicates the year(s) that the stallion is subscribed. If a stallion is subscribed for 2024, offspring foaled in 2020 - 2024 sired by that stallion are eligible for nomination.
$1.2 MILLION DOLLARS WAS PAID OUT IN THE LIMITED-AGED EVENT AT THE 2025 STALLION
STAKES
NOMINATE NOW
Nominate your offspring to be eligible for FULL payouts including the new Nominator Purse. Visit nrcha.co/cow-horse-incentive to submit your nomination.
• METILION 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• MISTER MONTANA CHIC 2024
• MISTER SMARTS 2024
• MOMS STILISH CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• MR PLAYINSTYLISH 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• MY BOOTS ARE ROYAL 2026
• MY PISTOLS HOTT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• NATURAL BOTTOM 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• NICS BLACK DIAMOND 2024
• NORTHERN METALLIC 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• NOTHING BUT BLU 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• NRR CAT KING COLE 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• NU N SHINEY 2025
• NU ONE TIME BLUES 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
• NU SMOKETANA 2024
• NZ SCOTCH TIME 2025
• OFFERS ARE CHEAP 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• OLENA OAK 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• ONCE IN A BLU BOON 2024, 2025
• ONCE UPON A BLUEBOON 2024
• ONE FINE VINTAGE 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
• ONE OH NINE 2024
• ONE SHINEY METALLIC 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
Beverly Servi is an NRCHA Board Member and lover of cow horses.
Beverly Servi didn’t grow up with horses, but she’s been captivated by them her entire life. She dreamed of riding in an open pasture, arms stretched wide, loping along with total freedom. Once she had her own means to do so, she acted on that dream, owning a few trail horses. Her passion evolved into breeding ranch horses, and about 18 years ago she attended her first cow horse clinic, which led her to attend the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, and she was hooked. She became enamored with the athleticism, grit and beauty of the cow horse.
She spent the next several years researching bloodlines and learning all she could about breeding and training, eventually breeding cutters and cow horses and owning a reiner. What began as a childhood dream grew into a lifelong pursuit—combining her love for horses with a deep appreciation for breeding, training and showing horses.
Reined Cow Horse News: What’s your favorite NRCHA-related memory or accomplishment?
Beverly Servi: One of my most meaningful memories is the NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman® when Tyler Merrill rode my stallion, Bet Hesa Boon. In that event, Tyler marked the highest rein score and set the current arena record with an incredible 231.5 in the steer stopping. Together, Tyler and Boon went on to finish third overall. What made this moment so unforgettable wasn’t only the success, but also the bond between horse and rider. The trust and connection that Tyler and “Boon” shared was something truly special to witness, and it remains one of the proudest highlights of my journey in the cow horse industry.
RCHN: What excited you about serving on the NRCHA Board of Directors?
BS: The opportunity to represent and support the owners and breeders who are the backbone of our industry. I’m passionate about creating programs that not only recognize and reward mares and their offspring, but also help preserve and enhance their value throughout a horse’s lifetime. As both an owner and a breeder, I’ve seen firsthand how horses often begin to lose value once they reach a certain age, despite their potential and bloodlines. I believe we can change that by developing initiatives that sustain and strengthen the value of these horses as they continue to mature and compete. Being part of the board gives me the chance to help shape those opportunities and ensure that our industry continues to thrive for both horses and horsemen.
RCHN: What are you most proud of accomplishing as a board member?
BS: The creation and development of the NRCHA Cow Horse Incentive Program, which
I worked on independently for many years before bringing it to the NRCHA Board. My vision was to address several critical needs in our industry: supporting mare owners, increasing offspring earnings, enhancing payouts and, most importantly, helping maintain and grow the value of horses as they age. The program was introduced at a pivotal time, and I’m proud of the dedication and effort that went into laying its foundation. Once I presented it to the board, I began working directly with NRCHA Director of Programs Tara Carter to refine its details. This work represents more than just a program—it reflects my commitment to supporting the breeders and owners who drive our industry forward.
RCHN: What are you looking forward to for the board in 2026?
BS: I’m most excited about continuing to strengthen and support the Cow Horse Incentive Program. The stallion owners who’ve placed their trust in this program are vital to its success, and I want to ensure that they know how valued they are. It’s a priority for me to be available to them, to listen and ensure that their voices are heard as we continue to grow and refine this program together.
I look forward to the launch of a new incentive program designed for mares that will provide mare owners with an exciting opportunity to showcase their mares and their offspring. By creating this platform, we’ll increase opportunities for offspring earnings, elevate the visibility of mares and highlight the critical role they play in the breeding process. Our goal is to have this incentive at our five major NRCHA events. It’s long been a passion of mine to ensure that mares receive the recognition they deserve. Mare power is the foundation of our industry, and I’m eager to help bring forward new opportunities.
MEMBER ROUNDUP
Meet Our NRCHA Members
KNOW THE PRO: JORDAN WILLIAMS
He’s not a flash in the pan, but more like a slow-burning ember that’s just getting fired up.
BY MEGAN ARSZMAN
Sometimes, the little things have the biggest impact on a horseman. For NRCHA professional Jordan Williams, after a fateful ride on “Doodad,” the Shetland, there might not have been any celebrations for the success he’s achieved so far this year.
“To be honest, it’s funny that I’m even in this business because, when I was a kid, I had this pony that was a running-off fool,” Williams recalled. “He’d been through four generations of children before I got him, and he knew every trick in the book. He pretty much ruined riding horses for me from a young age. I used to get so nervous at the thought of riding a big horse, I’d hide in my grandmother’s house until everyone was gone just so I didn’t have to ride.”
Williams was about 3 or 4 years old when he went for a ride with his dad, Perry Williams, and they rode through the ranch he worked on in Weatherford, Texas. Outfitted in a new pair of cowboy boots, spurs and a hat, he was riding along aboard DooDad while his dad rode one of his colts. After a string of events, the pony kicked into high gear, taking Williams for a ride through the meadow, toward the tree line and into a wheat field.
“Things were going fine until they weren’t,” he said. “DooDad kicked it into high gear, taking me for a ride through the meadow, toward the tree line and into a wheat field. He tried to rake me off under every single tree in the meadow. Dad says he’ll never forget when I’d look at him, then look at the ground, then back at him. He told me to just hold on, but I couldn’t any longer and I bailed.”
In a cloud of dust, a brand-new cowboy hat and two boots went flying. One boot and spur are still adrift in the ranch meadow. And if it weren’t for his uncle’s persistence, Williams’ career in the NRCHA pen might still be there as well.
A little after that incident, Williams and his parents moved to a townhouse in Weatherford. His mother, Anne Catherine, is a registered nurse and currently
serves as the Director of Nurses at Weatherford Hospital. Perry works for a hydraulic corporation in Fort Worth. The pair worked long hours, with young Williams in before- and after-school care programs during elementary school. It didn’t leave much time for life in the saddle.
“Both of my parents are extremely hardworking,” he said. “They instilled that in me from a very young age. Things were tight growing up, but they always found a way to provide and ensure that I was able to take advantage of every opportunity presented to me.”
One summer, Williams’ uncle visited his neighbor’s house, where he was attending summer camp. Williams’ uncle picked him up and took him back to the ranch, determined not to let him grow up to be a city kid.
Jordan and his wife, Eliana, are determined to let their son, George, grow up on the ranch and choose when he wants to ride.
Above: Williams piloted Jaymes Bond to the 2025 Reserve Champion title in the World’s Richest Stock Horse Intermediate Open and fourth place in the Open.
Top:
“From that day, my life changed forever—but I was terrified of horses,” Williams said. “The first two summers, I spent a lot of time picking up sticks and rocks from the arena and doing a bunch of the grunt work because I was too nervous to even get horseback. I think their mentality was that they’d give me all the jobs that, for lack of a better word, suck, through the summer until it got to the point where maybe riding isn’t that bad. It worked. It took a couple of summers, but I did eventually get horse-
first horses from my uncle, and those just happen to be the horses that my cousins and I grew up on,” Williams recalled. “So that’s kind of cool and a full-circle kind of deal. I’ve known them since I was a little kid.”
Williams worked under Rogers for about 2½ years until Rogers retired from training and transitioned to judging full-time. Since then, Williams has added multiple top riders as mentors and friends in the reined cow horse world.
“I’d study Boyd Rice, Todd Bergen, Kelby Phillips, Corey Cushing, Sarah and Chris Dawson,” Williams explained. “I’d watch what they were doing and then I’d go home, and I’d video myself. I’d do it over and over again until my horses looked like whomever I was trying to mirror. I did that for each event.”
back, and I was super nervous at the time, but as time went on, I got very comfortable with it. Same with being with cattle.”
Now, you can’t get Williams out of the saddle. The professional saw a reined cow horse event for the first time after graduating from Texas Tech University and starting to work with Bozo Rogers for Wes and Sarah Williams. It was a full-circle moment getting hired at Dove Creek Ranch.
“When [Wes and Sarah Williams] got into the horse business, they bought their very
Williams credits the openness of NRCHA professionals and everybody’s willingness to help when asked.
“You watch those guys, and you sit there in awe because it’s just beautiful,” he said. “Training horses is an art for me, and when you sit and watch those guys who are so talented and ride such good horses, it can really be jaw-dropping to watch.”
Reined Cow Horse News: What do you look for in a cow horse prospect?
Jordan Williams: I’m drawn to horses that have a little more stretch and are leggier, more bendy and snakey; they’re usually a bit more feely. That’s what I grew accustomed to when I was growing up. So, when I go to look for horses, that’s generally what I’ve looked for in the past.
That’s changing some because, as soon as NRCHA moved to Fort Worth, the access to horseflesh changed dramatically overnight. We had access to a whole new breed of horses that just hadn’t made it to the West Coast yet. Truthfully, those horses are a little more compact. You don’t want
AQto have such a big stride. When you make the finals in the Will Rogers, those suckers have to get small quick to go down the fence. I’d say I’ve adjusted what I look for a tick, but I’m still always drawn to those more stretchy-type horses because I’ve always liked riding those horses.
RCHN: What have you learned that you’ve built your career on so far?
JW: Whatever I do in one event, I don’t want it to take away from the other. I try to make everything complement each other for my horse. I feel like we’re constantly lying to our horses; we need them to draw for the herd work, step forward for the reining and a little bit of both down the fence. There’s a blend there, and I think that’s been the most challenging thing to figure out. I think that’s why my fence work suffered for as long as it did. I was more concerned about looking pretty instead of teaching them their job. I was so worried about jeopardizing softness or how one felt that they’d cheat me or do something smart on their end, I wouldn’t let them, so my horses would become extremely mechanical. And if the cow wasn’t perfect, it wouldn’t work. I had to retrain myself
With NRCHA Pro Jordan Williams
Williams picked up his first NRCHA premier event win aboard Tazzy Es Savvy, claiming the NRCHA Kimes Ranch Open and Intermediate Open Derby Championships in June.
in the last two to three years to do things differently and build a more solid program. I got lots of help from my friends and mentors, and luckily, I found a way to do it that complements my horses’ abilities along with a feel that suits me.
RCHN: What tip would you give to trainers with kids?
JW: My son [George] is 1½ years old now, and Kory Pounds gave me some good advice. He asked me if I have him riding yet, and I said that he gets on with me every now and then. Kory told me not to rush it. He said, “Don’t put that boy in a place where he could fall off or get hurt—it’ll ruin him.” I told him that I was a living example of that, and he reassured me to let him take his time and let it be natural and don’t put him in a deal that could possibly get him hurt or scared. He loves to ride. Any time Dad is horseback, he lets Momma know that
he’s upset that he’s not up there with me. I try to let him walk with me every day. Most of mine are young and they won’t allow it, but if I’m on one that will, he’ll get to ride with me a little. He loves being at the barn.
RCHN: What advice would you share with up-and-coming trainers?
JW: There are so many young trainers who just can’t wait to get on their own. Wait until you’re out on your own and you don’t have anyone telling you what’s wrong or what you need to fix. Then you go out and show, and you figure out that you’re missing something. That’s hard because sometimes you’ve gone so far down the rabbit hole, it’s hard to untrain and retrain. That was the hardest for me to come to grips with—that with change, there are going to be lots of ups and downs, and I struggled with that. I didn’t quit. I had thoughts of it, but I didn’t have it in me to quit.
Williams and Hott And Juicy claimed the NSHA Open and Intermediate Derbies in Las Vegas, Nevada, in August of 2025.
ADMIRABLE ASSISTANT: STEFAN HEIM
This horseman’s character and versatility set him apart as a standout assistant trainer and worthy contender in the reined cow horse arena.
BY JADE CURRID | PHOTOS CAROLYN SIMANCIK
Being a successful trainer in the reined cow horse industry requires more than a desire to throw a leg over horses descended from top bloodlines and reign supreme in the show pen. It’s more than experiencing the most adrenaline-filled aspects of the job, such as forming “11’s” in the arena dirt after perfecting a sliding stop or working a cow down the fence with dizzying speed. The true greats demonstrate a passion for the horse, first and foremost, a willingness to start at the bottom and complete seemingly thankless tasks and dexterity in performing a wide range of duties.
Stefan Heim, assistant trainer for NRCHA Two Million Dollar Riders Chris and Sarah Dawson of Dawson Performance Horses in Perrin, Texas, humbly exhibits all the qualities of promising trainers who are well on their way to gaining recognition. Heim reflects on what he considers his most significant achievement so far.
“My greatest achievement is being able to work with great people such as Chris and Sarah,” Heim shared. “I consider it a major achievement to be able to help them year-round at the shows, start their horses and assist them with whatever they need, whether it’s at home dragging the arena or showing some of their customers’ horses. I look up to them and admire how they handle the business and treat their customers. It’s an honor to work for them. They could’ve hired anyone they wanted, and I have now been with them for six years. Without them, I wouldn’t be anywhere in the reined cow horse industry.”
Heim started his horsemanship journey at a young age in Europe. Born in Switzerland, he later moved to France, where his parents, Rudy and Sylvia Heim, bought a horse property.
“My dad started buying horses in Italy and shipped them to France,” Heim recalled. “I began learning how to ride under my dad’s guidance. We started in the reining, and then we branched out.”
His father, who grew up riding and conditioning racehorses, bought his first Quarter Horse from Italy when Heim was 6 years old. The elder Heim studied books on reining and watched instructional videos like the iconic Heroes and Friends series, featuring legends Bob Avila, Todd Bergen, Ted Robinson and John Slack, to assist him in training his mare for the discipline.
“When I was a little bit older, I started working for reining trainers, and that facilitated me coming to the States,” Heim explained. “I first came here when I was 16 years old and fell in love with it. I might’ve gone back to Europe for another year or so, but then I came right back over here.”
Heim stayed in the United States to work full time for reining trainers before entering employment with Dawson Performance Horses.
“I first met Chris when he had just ventured out on his own,” Heim recalls. “I interviewed with him, but he didn’t have enough horses to keep me at the time. I called him maybe 10 years later, and he said, ‘Come on over.’”
It was around the time Heim met Chris Dawson that he also met his wife, Molly, who has been influential in his horsemanship journey. Their paths first crossed when he took a 2-year-old to a veterinarian in Pilot Point, Texas, where Molly worked as a veterinary
Stefan Heim turns a cow aboard Tari Jonez (Travelin Jonez x Shiners Darlin x Shining Spark), owned by Linda Mars, during the 2022 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. Heim made his first Snaffle Bit Futurity® finals on the exceptional mare in the Intermediate and Limited Open Futurity.
technician and showed in hunter-jumpers. After the couple married, they spent summers commercial fishing with Molly’s family in Alaska and the rest of the year in Texas, starting 2-year-old horses and providing show help over 10 years.
Besides once owning hunter-jumper horses, Molly also owned a string of pack horses for Alaskan hunting trips. She’d been following the Dawsons on social media for some time when her growing interest in the reined cow horse industry motivated Heim and her to seek employment with Dawson Performance Horses.
Heim said he had been leaning toward swapping to the reined cow horse discipline for some time, as he desired to expand his skills beyond reining and preferred the added challenges that reined cow horse events present.
“My wife and I went to work for Dawson Performance Horses,” Heim said. “Chris and Sarah have been so welcoming and nice to us from the beginning. We’ve learned a lot. Their levels of horsemanship combined are through the roof. They have almost two different styles of horsemanship that obtain the same result. It’s amazing to have the opportunity to learn from both of their perspectives. They each help everyone improve. Everyone is a team at Dawson Performance Horses. What I love about Chris and Sarah is that they take the time to invest in their employees.”
Heim won the Level 1 Open Pre-Futurity Championship at the Eastern Derby aboard Old School Smarts (Smart Boons x Desires Last Freckle x Playboys Golden Flo), owned and bred by Thomas and Suzanne Gowan. In 2022, he won the Level 1 Open Championship aboard Hickory’s Big Check (Hickory Holly Time x Check to the Hearts x Im Countin Checks) at the Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association Futurity.
“That win was cool because I started that horse and worked with Chris and Sarah on all of his training up to that point,” Heim said.
In 2022, Heim made his first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Finals aboard Tari Jonez (Travelin Jonez x Shiners Darlin x Shining Spark), owned by Linda Mars, in the Intermediate and Limited Open Futurity. The dynamic horse-and-rider pair earned the Level 1 Open high cow work score going into finals.
“That mare was pretty special to me, too,” Heim recalled.
Heim said that he considers one of his current mounts to be among the most memorable horses he has ridden.
“I’m friends with a little yellow horse, and his name is DF Gun Hair,” Heim shared. “We click well together.”
Among their successes, Heim and DF Gun Hair (Pale Face Dunnit x Xtra Playful Girl x Wimpys Little
Step), also known as “Oz” and owned by Jody Brooks, emerged as the 2024 Colorado Reined Cowhorse Association 4-Year-Old Open and Intermediate Open Champions. Heim said that even though he and Oz recently failed to make the 2025 NRCHA CINCH Stallion Stakes Open Finals as hoped, the flashy and talented palomino was still his hero.
“Even if the outcome of a show isn’t what I anticipated, it means a lot if a horse gave their all to me,” Heim said.
One of Heim’s mentors shared a compelling testimony about his ability and work ethic. Sarah Dawson said that if she were asked the hypothetical question, “If you are stranded on a deserted island, and you can only take one thing with you, what would you take?” her answer would be Stefan Heim.
“That guy can do anything and everything,” she emphasized. “What makes him a standout assistant trainer and the most unique is that in his mind, no job is too big or too small for him to do. That right there is what’s going to guarantee his success in this deal because we will bend over backward to try and provide opportunities for him, and we know he will do the same for himself.”
Heim completes a reining pattern aboard DF Gun Hair (Pale Face Dunnit x Xtra Playful Girl x Wimpys Little Step), also known as “Oz” and owned by Jody Brooks, at the 2025 NRCHA CINCH Stallion Stakes. The flashy pair won the 2024 Colorado Reined Cowhorse Association 4-Year-Old Open and Intermediate Open Championships.
NOTABLE NON PRO: SHANNON HASKINS
Her skills in the arena led her to win two divisions of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro, but her kindness outside the arena sets her apart.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON
Shannon Haskins has spent her life in a saddle, beginning as a kid in northern Nevada on her family’s ranch. At age 18, she gathered all her money from selling livestock in 4-H and bought a horse from fellow non pro Kathy Wilson. That single purchase changed her life and put her where she is today—a multiple NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro finalist and the 2025 Intermediate and Limited Non Pro Champion.
“Kathy is my hero,” she said. “She and I live close and ride together all the time. She’s hugely instrumental in getting me here.”
It’s not a surprise that Wilson shares those feelings—enough to nominate Haskins for the NRCHA Non Pro Good Sportsmanship Award, presented in memory of Jane Tatum, which Haskins received during the Futurity.
“Shannon has been showing NRCHA for years,” Wilson said in her nomination. “She’ll always be the first to wish you good luck or congratulate you. She spent countless hours helping youth when her daughter was showing. When she’s not showing, you’ll find her not in the stands, but at the back gate grooming and helping. Shannon has not been in a position to have leisure time to ride. She’s had to work hard for the time she does get to ride. Pouring rain? She’s riding. Windy? She’s riding. Hot? Still riding. She’s the most dedicated non pro I know.
“Watch her at shows—she never has a sour look, never once has not cheered on or helped those in her class,” Wilson continued. “Shannon recently had a major win at the National Stock Horse Association show. Look at all the posts [on social media] of her not only thanking Jake [Gorrell], her trainer, but thanking her horse and every single person who supported her. Look back on older posts, and it’s the same theme. Even when she had a horrid show, she’s thanking those around her and congratulating those that did well. Nothing is handed to Shannon—she’s worked for every bit of success she’s had. Ask anyone about Shannon, and I bet they’ll smile before they answer. Shannon Haskins is the perfect recipient of this award.”
Several nominations echoed that sentiment, noting Haskins’ humility, willingness to help, friendliness and endless cheering for others.
“I had no idea about this award,” Haskins shared. “I’m overwhelmed by it. It represents everything I want to be. This sport is so
Just before scoring a 225 down the fence in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro finals, Shannon Haskins was surprised with the Non Pro Sportsmanship Award.
hard. Everybody puts blood, sweat and tears into it. If I can brighten someone’s day, I love to do that. I like to be a cheerleader. We all work so hard, and it can be so rewarding but also heartbreaking. I’m amazed people think that way about me.”
“Everyone needs a Shannon Haskins in their show barn,” shared Lydia Van Landingham. “She always has positive remarks about your run, even if it was a bad run. She’ll find the good to tell you about it and lift your spirits. She exemplifies what a good horseman is and team player should be!”
“She has faced significant personal challenges, especially in the last year, and always remains gracious, humble and an avid supporter of the NRCHA” shared youth competitor Nicole Donahoo.
Reined Cow Horse News: 2025 was your first time to show at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. Tell us about how you got here and your experience.
Shannon Haskins: It’s incredible. The people and horses are amazing. We won the NSHA Pre-Futurity and placed third at the Reno Pre-Futurity. We didn’t plan on going to Fort Worth, but everyone said I had to go. They were so supportive, so we went!
RCHN: Good thing, because it paid off in winning the Intermediate and Limited Non Pro divisions and placing second in the Non Pro with a 652 (H: 213/R: 214/ C: 225). Tell us about your horse, Just A Stylish Boon (Bet Hesa Boon x Justa Lil Stylish x Playin Stylish).
SH: My sister bred her. While she was in utero, we sold the mare. I couldn’t get her out of my head. I was persistent and sought after her and got her as a 2-year-old. She loves me, and I adore her. She’s a team player, and I look forward to riding her every day. She’s loyal, kind and forgiving. She’s grit and grace.
I was presented with this award right before my cow work, so I had to gather myself to go show. Jake Gorrell, my
trainer, told me, “Go work this cow and only wor ry about that!”
My cow work is 100% my most memorable run ever. The people cheering me on— it was amazing to have that many people cheering for us. She’s had the high cow work score at every futurity, and she didn’t let me down in Fort Worth. I’m so proud of her.
RCHN: Tell us about riding with Jake. SH: I’ve ridden with Jake for 20-some years. He and Sonia and their son, Chet, as well as his parents Jug and Gayle, are like family to me. I go down to their place and stay while I ride. They’re the reason I’m here. They encourage and help me. He can see when I’m nervous and get me through it. Their entire barn is incredible.
RCHN: Most successful non pros have a great support system behind them. Who helps you keep going?
SH: My husband, Jamie, and our son, Vance. My husband is so incredibly supportive. He’s not into the horses, but there are so many little things he does daily to ensure that I have what I need to pursue my dream—everything from making sure the ground in my arena is top notch to building the things I need. His love and support don’t go unappreciated. My son has done an outstanding job taking care of things at home when I’ve been gone, and his “Let’s go Mom!” texts mean the world to me. My friend Suze Backawski has been an amazing supporter to me this year. We joke that she’s my manager. She makes sure I’m well-fed, have a place to sleep and tells it to me like it is. She’s picked me up on some of my darkest days. My sister, Johni Santucci, is incredible. She’s my best friend and a heck of a horsewoman.
RCHN: What’s next for you and your mare?
SH: I think we’ll go to Paso Robles [for the California Reined Cow Horse Association Futurity]. Then she’ll have much-needed time off before I derby her. Ultimately, I’ll take her into the bridle and then breed her. She’s a forever horse for me.
Top: Haskins’ husband, Jamie, isn’t a horse person, but he’s one of her biggest supporters and lends a hand any way he can.
Bottom: Vance Haskins (middle) helps hold down the fort while his mom is on the road with her horses. She cherishes his encouraging text messages. Haskins also has a daughter, Kylie.
COWBOY CONNECTION: LYDIA BROWN
Showcasing her family’s home-raised and -trained horses in cow horse events is a highlight for this cowgirl.
BY JENNIFER DENISON
Lydia Brown has deep roots in the Texas cattle and stock-horse industries, so it’s only natural she’d want to be involved in ranching and cow horses. In 1906, her great-great-grandfather, R.H. Brown, brought the first registered Hereford cattle to Throckmorton County, Texas. When he passed in 1929, her great-grandfather, R.A. Brown Sr., took over the ranch and expanded it over the years. He was also a founding member and former president of the American Quarter Horse Association. Her grandfather Rob Brown Sr. also served as an AQHA President.
Lydia, the daughter of Rob A. and Talley Brown, spent her first four years living on her family’s legacy ranch, the R.A. Brown Ranch in Throckmorton. Her father later started his own horse and cattle operation and purchased several ranches in the Texas Panhandle. She recalls most of her childhood memories involve living and riding with her six siblings on the Rob A. Brown Ranch, based in Stinnett, Texas. The 28-yearold still lives and works there today.
Lydia grew up horseback, riding home-raised and -trained horses on the ranch. She also showed a little in high school, but rodeoing was her passion. After graduating from high school, she attended Frank Phillips College in Borger, Texas, for two years before transferring to Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. There, she competed on Texas Tech’s ranch horse team with her two first cousins, Lanham Brown and Emily McCartney. After college, she took a five-year break from the arena.
Her father, who has been raising his own horses for over 40 years, is an AQHA Texas Director and a
member of the AQHA Ranching Heritage Council, formed in 2021 to develop programs that honor the traditions of AQHA Ranching Heritage-bred horses. His involvement in the AQHA Ranching Heritage Challenge events prompted her to return to the show pen in 2023. In October of 2024, she competed in her first NRCHA Cowboy Class. This year, she won the Cowboy Heritage Ranch Challenge Championship at The Run For A Million aboard Ranchin Royalty RAB, a 9-yearold gelding by One Time Royalty and out of Shesa Rock Hancock by Hesa Eddie Hancock.
“I feel like I’ve learned a lot over the past 2½ years of showing fairly consistently,” she said. “It’s been fun
Lydia Brown rode her home-raised ranch gelding, Ranchin Royalty RAB, to the championship title at the 2025 Run For A Million.
Q&A
COWBOY CONNECTION
to get back into it, and I’ve been blessed to get to ride really good horses that my family has raised. My brother, Myles, has trained them, and my other siblings have either ranched or shown on them.”
This year was her second time representing the Rob A. Brown Ranch in The Run For A Million, and she was the only female in a field of 10 competitors from other heritage ranches. She’d planned to ride a different horse, but he didn’t meet the eligibility requirements. Instead, she used her reliable ranch horse, “Roy,” which she roped and drug calves on during branding this spring. She’s also used the horse for breakaway roping, and Myles rode him at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® as a 3-year-old and ranch rodeoed on him. Myles’ wife, Jaylee, also barrel raced on him twice at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo.
“It was his first show in four years, and he made us all so proud,” she said. “I really didn’t know what to expect. I’d roped and ranched on him, but I hadn’t actually shown him before. He went above and beyond. He’s so sweet and willing, and he made the transition back into the area pretty easy.”
Reined Cow Horse News: What made you decide to start showing again?
Lydia Brown: I always enjoyed showing, but after I graduated from college, I was working, and it wasn’t feasible at the time given where I was and what I was doing. Then, in 2021, I moved closer to the ranch and started working there soon after. I can’t remember if it was my dad, Myles or R.A. who asked if I wanted to show again, and I thought, “Sure, I guess I could.” I’ve mostly done the Ranching Heritage Challenge events to support my dad and show our horses. Those events are a great fit between Ranch Horse Association of America and
NRCHA events—there’s a lot of ranch influence, dry work and roping. I’ve also shown some of our horses in NRCHA-sanctioned events, and they’ve been fun, too. I competed in my first Cowboy Class in October at the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and then again in February at the Celebration of Champions.
RCHN: Why do you think it’s important to have the Cowboy Class at NRCHA events?
LB: It’s important to remember why we do this. We wouldn’t have the cow horse industry or these events without cattle ranches; ranching is the foundation for all of it.
RCHN: Do you use your show horses on the ranch?
LB: We sometimes use them, but all of them start out as ranch horses. When my brother Myles is training 2- and 3-yearolds, he thinks it’s really important that they be able to travel outside the arena and know how to use their bodies. Handling cattle gives them a lot of knowledge that applies in the arena. Roy started out that way. Myles took him to the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® as a 3-year-old, and then his wife, Jaylee, showed him for a while. Then he turned into a ranch horse.
RCHN: Did winning The Run For A Million change anything for you?
LB: I wouldn’t say it changed anything for me, except it boosted my confidence and helped me realize I can do this. What I really enjoyed was that Roy was the star of the show. People kept talking about him, which I loved. He was just this cute little cow horse that you could tell was a ranch horse, and he went in there and won. He deserves all the credit, and I’m so glad he could be highlighted.
“ HE WAS JUST THIS CUTE LITTLE COW HORSE THAT YOU COULD TELL WAS A RANCH HORSE, AND HE WENT IN THERE AND WON.”
Affiliates and prestige events provide increased visibility—and large paychecks— for reined cow horse competitors. Here’s how the biggest pre-futurities and other events have evolved to showcase the best of the sport.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON
It’s no secret that payouts in Western performance events have increased exponentially during the past 10 years. NRCHA premier events have consistently pushed riders, stallions, dams and breeders to achieve new heights on the reined cow horse leaderboards. Now, affiliate shows and prestige events also help elevate the sport to new levels in payouts, entries and visibility.
Here, we’ll examine four affiliate events and two prestige events (requiring qualification) that are pushing the sport to new heights—and new payouts.
Created in 2017, the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity aimed to fill a geographic void when the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® relocated to Fort Worth, Texas. Over its eight years, the event has grown, adding a derby and expanding the horse show classes.
PHOTOS BY ROCKIN’ HORSE
PHOTOGRAPHY
Top: Nick Dowers and Tha Rizzler, owned by Triple D Ranches, claimed the 2025 Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity Open title.
Bottom: Francesca Lord and My Magic Lady, owned by Lord Ranches, swept the Non Pro division of the 2025 Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity.
A
COWBOY’S WORK IS NEVER DONE
“From the very beginning, support from owners, trainers and sponsors has helped the purse grow steadily each year,” shared Dar Hanson, producer of the event. “Entries have also consistently increased as more exhibitors make Reno part of their annual schedule. The event has continued to thrive, with sponsors helping us elevate purses and add value through high-quality awards, banquets and hospitality.”
Every event has its special draw, and in Reno, Hanson credits the conditions of the event.
“Exhibitors consistently tell us they appreciate the show conditions: a rare, large arena that gives them room to show their horses to their best ability; high-quality ground; spacious warm-up pens and practice arenas; and first-rate stalls,” Hanson said. “Reno also offers favorable September weather and excellent hotel accommodations. All of this creates an atmosphere that blends serious competition with community, making Reno both a competitive and enjoyable destination.”
The West Coast’s influence on reined cow horse traditions remains strong at the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity, giving local fans a chance to see top horses compete for prestigious titles. The region is also rich with sponsors and vendors steeped in Western heritage, making the trade show a destination in itself.
“Our large arena, quality cattle and professional presentation elevate the level of competition, while our outreach, photography and media presence ensure the sport gains recognition outside of the immediate competitor base,” says Hanson.
EVENT: Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association Pre-Futurity
LOCATION: Fort Worth, Texas
INFO: srcha.org
The Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association PreFuturity began as a schooling opportunity for horses pointed at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and steadily grew into a major event over 10 years. It now hosts one of the largest pre-futurities in the United States, attracting exhibitors nationwide.
“Exhibitors love showing in the same Will Rogers Memorial Center arena used for the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®,” shared SRCHA Executive Director Gay Lenz. “It’s a chance to school their 3-year-olds, compete for great prize money and be part of an event that has become a tradition.”
During the event’s lifespan, entries and payouts increase annually. During the past five years, the event averaged more than $360,000 in prize money. Lenz said that steady growth has reinforced the show’s reputation as a premier stop on the reined cow horse calendar and, as a result, elevated the sport’s visibility.
Top: Sugarnick, owned by Double Horn Ranch, and CJ Shopbell topped the Open division of the 2025 SRCHA Pre-Futurity.
Bottom: Myles Brown and Painted Shadows won the Non Pro division of the SRCHA Pre-Futurity.
“By showcasing elite, young horses and riders on a national stage, the SRCHA Pre-Futurity helps spotlight the talent and excitement of cow horse while building anticipation for the sport’s biggest events,” says Lenz.
EVENT: National Stock Horse Association Pre-Futurity
LOCATION: Las Vegas, Nevada
INFO: nationalstockhorse.com
In 2004, John Ward, Ted Robinson and Russell and Tanna Dilday formed the NSHA to produce premier stock horse competitions while preserving and promoting our Western heritage and the rich history of the Spanish vaqueros. Jake Gorrell has now joined that team to produce a special single event.
“We’re in a unique position to offer just one quality show a year,” shared Tanna Dilday. “We know everyone who comes to our show has worked hard to get there, and we want them all to have the best shot at bringing home a check. We have fantastic owners who donate stallions to our stallion auction, and we add all the money raised through that, along with all our sponsor money, back into the purse. This helps us to keep the payouts growing.”
While the pre-futurity highlights up-andcoming cow horses, this event offers marquee classes for horses in all training phases, including the World’s Richest Stock Horse class, the first bridle class to pay $100,000 to the winner, as well as a derby and spectaculars.
“In 2025, we gave out over $850,000 in money and prizes,” Dilday shared. “We award custom buckles, jackets, vests and handmade tack. Some of our prized awards are custom bits honoring Ronnie Richards and Doug Williamson. We’re continually looking to grow the sport and better the payouts and prizes—not just for the top, but all the divisions.”
The event’s longevity has allowed it to showcase cow horses and their riders throughout their careers.
“As show management, we’ve seen the quality of horses and competitors grow each year,” Dilday said. “You can look back at many of the great bridle horses of today and see their maiden voyage at our show. It’s fun to see how far a lot of the trainers have come in two decades! We work very hard to present an exciting and competitive event for the riders, owners and spectators of these phenomenal athletes.”
Top: Recklesss, owned by Tres Osos Performance Horses, and Sarah Dawson won the Open Championship at the NSHA Pre-Futurity.
Bottom: Shannon Haskins and Just A Stylish Boon topped NSHA Pre-Futurity Non Pro division.
EVENT: California Reined Cow Horse Association Fall Classic Futurity
LOCATION: Paso Robles, California
INFO: californiacowhorse.com
In just two years, the CRCHA Fall Classic Futurity has grown into a can’t-miss event on the West Coast. But CRCHA’s roots in the sport are deep.
“The California Reined Cow Horse Association has supported the sport for decades, with a deep history of producing shows and cultivating a strong community of trainers, owners and non pros,” shared CRCHA President Chris Krieg. “In 2023, the association added the CRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity to its lineup, giving California horsemen and -women with a premier aged event of their own. Even in just two years, the Snaffle Bit Futurity has established itself as a meaningful stage for young horses and riders, and in 2025 we’ll celebrate its third year at a new venue in Paso Robles—a move that reflects the show’s rapid growth and future.”
Entries and purses keep growing as the show establishes itself, but it’s the camaraderie and sense of being at home that attract many exhibitors.
“The CRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity feels like ‘home’ for many California exhibitors,” Krieg said. “It’s a place where they can showcase their 3-year-olds on a major stage without leaving the state, surrounded by a supportive community and strong local sponsorship. The camaraderie, combined with quality cattle, fair judging and professional production, makes it a highlight on the calendar. The move to Paso Robles in 2025 will only add to that, with facilities that match the show’s ambition and growth.”
EVENT: The American Performance Horseman
LOCATION: Fort Worth, Texas
INFO: theamericanperformancehorseman.com
With roots in The American Western Weekend and The American Rodeo, The American Performance Horseman has become a standalone event—the first of its kind at Dickies Arena. It highlights the marquee Western performance events: reined cow horse, cutting and reining. In 2025, the field of competitors in each event grew from five to eight, based on earnings documented by each sport’s governing body.
“The American Performance Horseman shines a spotlight on the very best in Western performance horse sports,” said Josh Valdez, director for Teton Ridge. “It delivers intensity, the thrill of a packed house and a shared love of the horse. The event bridges the cow horse world with the other Western performance communities while introducing the sport to a broader audience of fans seeking an unforgettable night out. By taking a spectator-first
Top: Rock O Rama and Shane Steffen claimed the 2024 California Reined Cow Horse Association Fall Classic Futurity Open Championship.
Bottom: Debbie Crafton and Modern Metallic topped the Non Pro division of the 2024 California Reined Cow Horse Association Fall Classic Futurity Open Championship.
PHOTOS BY
approach, the Horseman challenges traditional presentation formats and creates new excitement for both longtime enthusiasts and first-time fans.”
In 2025, nearly 9,000 fans packed the venue, making it the most attended single-day Western performance event in the world, according to Valdez. Each discipline champion earns a $100,000 payout, and the winning team also takes home $100,000. But Valdez emphasized that the event’s draw for riders goes far beyond the money.
“The camaraderie, the prestige and the added pressure of performing not just for yourself but also for your teammates make The American Performance Horseman an experience like no other,” he said.
As for the fans, it’s a unique experience that they can’t get anywhere else.
“The American Performance Horseman is the only event where fans can see the very best in cutting, reining and cow horse—all in one arena, all in one night. Pair that with the atmosphere of a world-class venue like Dickies Arena and top-tier show production and the result is a high-energy, unforgettable experience that fans won’t be soon to forget.”
EVENT: The Run For A Million Cow Horse Challenge
LOCATION: Las Vegas, Nevada
INFO: trfam.com
The Run For A Million Cow Horse Challenge brings 15 riders to compete for a first-place prize of $50,000. Riders have three opportunities to qualify for the event: the NSHA Pre-Futurity or the NRCHA Derby or NRCHA Hackamore Classic.
“The Run For A Million gives the reined cow horse world a very unique stage,” shared Cheryl Cody, owner of event producer Pro Management. “Showcasing this discipline with reining and cutting at one of the most prestigious events in the Western performance industry creates crossover fans for all three sports. Those new to cow horse competition see the excitement of cow work runs through media and on The Last Cowboy series, and that results in new audiences, sponsors and owners for NRCHA. The high purse and elite production spotlight the uniqueness of cow horse competition.”
The three marquee events are ticketed and draw nearly 13,000 spectators, with sellout crowds for some of the events. That level of excitement from fans puts cow horse front and center for opportunity.
“Fans come to The Run For A Million for the energy, the excellence and the emotion,” Cody said. “It’s the best of the best in one arena—riders, horses and moments that define Western performance. The production and atmosphere make it more than a horse show—it’s an experience that celebrates Western heritage, competition and community. People come to cheer, to be inspired and to see history being made.”
Top: Boyd Rice and My Boots Are Royal claimed the Reined Cow Horse Championship at the 2025 The American Performance Horseman. That hefty $100,000 payday pushed Rice past $2 million in NRCHA earnings.
Bottom: Peptos Stylin Time and Abbie Phillips took home the 2025 Run For A Million Cow Horse Challenge title.
WALTENBERRY
HONORING THE RIDERS
The high-scoring riders in each phase of the open preliminary round of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit
Futurity® received Streakin’ B Art bronzes to commemorate their achievements.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON
Bronzes have long been cherished mementos of big achievements. The craftsmanship and time that go into creating the pieces reflect the same characteristics that go into training and showing a winning horse. NRCHA professional Josey Butler, the one-of-a-kind artist behind Streakin’ B Art, knows this connection well.
“Open riders work so hard and put in so much time, heart and effort to get these horses to the top,” she said.
A chance conversation revolving around that idea turned into a tradition that’s now in its fourth year at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit
Futurity®: the high-score bronzes awarded to the winners of each phase of the preliminary round of the event.
“A handful of us were in my booth talking about awards and that often the owners get the bronzes that are won at major events,” she said. “We thought it would be cool to do something that’s just for the riders to recognize what they’ve done to get those horses to that point.”
Jayne Vatcher, an owner and rider of cow horses, was part of that conversation and called Butler a couple of months later.
“She said, ‘Let’s make it happen,’ and commissioned me to do the three bronzes,” Butler shared. “She agreed to sponsor them for three years, and this year I took over that sponsorship. It never would’ve gotten off the ground without Jayne’s support.”
Just like every horse is unique, each of Butler’s bronzes is its own work of art. She pours molds each year to initiate the 12-week process, which Butler compares to training a 3-year-old, as it’s a process that requires much more work than most people see. Once created, Butler patinas each piece individually.
“I do a different patina every year,” she said. “No two are the same. And they’re real bronzes—they’re not dipped resin. I work with Hefestus Fine Arts in Springtown, Texas, each September before the show. We fire up the blowtorch and get out the chemicals to play mad scientist to make each piece unique.”
The longevity of a bronze appeals to Butler, because it’s something that’ll last long beyond the feeling of the high score.
“It’s something they get to put in their home,” she said. “It’s awesome to hear the riders talk about how the bronzes look ‘right.’ It’s important to me to get things as accurate as I can—the face, body and position. I get photos of where they’ve placed the bronzes in their homes. It’s so fulfilling that many of them are already collectors of my work, too.”
Top: A competitor and trainer, Josey Butler crafts each of the preliminary round highscore bronzes with an understanding of the time, effort and heart that go into training 3-year-olds for the Open division of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®.
Left: Nick Dowers and Shadd Parkinson tied for the high preliminary reined work score with a 222.5 each. Corey Cushing took the top spot in the preliminary herd work with a 222. Justin Wright led the fence work with a 221.5.
The only FDA-approved PSGAG for the treatment of equine arthritis proven to:1,2
• • Reduce inflammation
• • Restore synovial joint lubrication
• • Repair joint cartilage
• • Reverse the disease process1,2
Adequan® i.m. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is recommended for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses. WARNING: Not for use in humans. CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a of a licensed veterinarian.
BRIEF SUMMARY: Prior to use please consult the product insert, a summary of which follows: CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. INDICATIONS: Adequan® i.m. is recommended for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses. CONTRAINDICATIONS: There are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan. WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. PRECAUTIONS: The safe use of Adequan® i.m. in horses used for breeding purposes, during pregnancy, or in lactating mares has not been evaluated. For customer care, or to obtain product information, visit www.adequan.com. To report an adverse event please contact American Regent, Inc. at 1-888-354-4857 or email pv@americanregent.com.
on uptake and distribution of intramuscular tritium-labeled
1. Kim DY, Taylor HW, Moore RM, Paulsen DB, Cho DY. Articular chondrocyte apoptosis in equine osteoarthritis. The Veterinary Journal
2. Burba DJ, Collier MA, DeBault LE, Hanson-Painton O, Thompson HC, Holder CL: In vivo kinetic study
Celebrating THE Village
It takes a village to raise a champion, and the journey to the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® is fueled by the owners’ support and investment. Here, we’ll get to know the owners behind this year’s Open champions. Read the full stories about the horses and their riders beginning on page 102.
BY PAIGE BRANDON
Follow the FEEL
The 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champion was a storybook ending that wrote itself. Veronica Swales was injured and her brother, two-time World’s Greatest Horseman® John Swales, catch-rode her horses to victory aboard Bowie Nights (Metallic Cat x Lil Bit Reckless x CD Royal), a 2022 mare owned by Bar One Land & Cattle LLP.
Bar One Land & Cattle, owned by Seth and Chantel Murphy, is located in western North Dakota. The brands—Bar One and One Bar—are connected through the Murphy name.
“They’re two of the earliest brands ever registered in the state of North Dakota,” Seth Murphy shared. “We’re trying to build, grow and preserve that legacy all the time.”
The Murphys are raising the fifth generation now, their three daughters and son, in the horse world.
“When our kids started coming of age and wanting to be around horses more and get into it themselves, my wife and I decided we wanted to raise our kids in this lifestyle. And if we’re going to do it, we may as well put them on the best horses in the world. That was our reason for starting out. The first horse we started out with was Spanish Nights,
In 2020, friends pointed the Murphys to NRCHA professionals Clay Volmer and Veronica Swales, who began training Spanish Nights (Metallic Rebel x Lil Bit Reckless x CD Royal) after they bought the 2019 mare at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Western Bloodstock Sale. Murphy instinctively believed Spanish Nights was a champion, and the mare later proved it, winning the 2024 CINCH NRCHA Stallion Stakes Open Championship and earning the Reined Cow Horse Reserve Championship at the 2025 The American Performance Horseman. Her barn name, “Naomi”, honors Seth’s late mother.
“I’m a feel guy,” Murphy said. “If I feel it’s right, that’s what I do. I got the same feeling [with Bowie Nights as] I got when I watched Naomi in the ring that day, and it hasn’t failed me yet, so I’m just going to keep following it.”
With the success of Spanish Nights, Murphy found it easy to decide to invest in a maternal sister. They purchased Bowie Nights from Russ and Janet Westfall, the same breeder as Spanish Nights. Her registered name, Bowie Nights, was inspired by the Bowie House Hotel in the Fort Worth
Four horse owners celebrate their Open champions at the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, presented by Metallic Cat.
Bar One Land & Cattle own both the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open and Reserve Champions: Bowie Nights (Metallic Cat x Lil Bit Reckless x CD Royal) and Von Jovii (Stevie Rey Von x She Wood in Time x One Time Pepto), respectively.
Signing up for our See the Difference Trial unleashes the athlete inside your horse with Digestive Shield™ to defend gut health and Rebound Technology™ to support muscle recovery. Try ProForce ® today and ensure your horse is getting quality ingredients to recover and repair muscles, so you can fuel them to go the distance, every time.
Respond to our feedback email for a chance to win a $500 gift card. 3. Use your coupon on ProForce horse feed at your local retailer. 2. Print your $25 off coupon. 1. Scan the QR code to fill out the sign-up form.
“TRUST YOUR TRAINERS AND rIDerS, AND TrUST THe ProceSS.”
—Seth Murphy
Stockyards, where they finalized the deal.
Following Veronica’s accident, they decided that her brother John was the best choice to keep the horses going.
“I believe John got down there six days before the Futurity started, and for him to go and win in dominating fashion like he did—we’re still on cloud nine,” Murphy expressed. “We couldn’t be more thankful to Veronica or John. We had the talent, both in the horse and the riders. We ended up getting three horses back to the finals to take first, second and 22nd. It’s a testament to the horses and a testament to our riders. Simple as that.”
Murphy shared advice for aspiring open champion owners.
“Trust your trainers and riders, and trust the process,” he advised. “Trust the steps it takes to become a champion, and work with good people. Try to find good
Enjoy the JOURNEY
Zane Davis rode Constellations (Dual Reyish x Playguns Star x Playgun) to capture the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Intermediate Open Champion title. The 2022 gelding is owned by Lazy T Ranch, a working cattle operation in Ten Sleep, Wyoming.
“We wanted to have nice horses and always felt that if they didn’t do good on the performance side, we could use them on the ranch,” Ty Jenkins, owner of Lazy T Ranch, explained. “We use horses every day on the ranch, so it’s always good to have a few well-broke horses to work on.”
Jenkins and his wife, Debbie, have worked with NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider Zane Davis for about 10 years.
“I’ve always watched his career and have been impressed with his work ethic—how he rides and his style,” Jenkins said. It’s fun to watch how he shows a horse because he’s fearless in how he approaches the arena.”
The Jenkins family bought Constellations from the NRCHA Snaffle Bit
horses. And follow the feeling.”
This is a win the Murphy family will never forget.
“It means everything,” Murphy stated. “For our ranch, my parents and the grandparents that came before me, and the kids and grandkids that will come after me. This is something they can never take away from us.”
He thanks Clay Volmer and Veronica Swales, as well as NRCHA Four Million Dollar Rider Corey Cushing and Two Million Dollar riders Chris and Sarah Dawson.
“They’re the riders and the trainers that we work with, and without them, none of this would be possible,” Murphy said.
Bar One Land & Cattle LLP will continue to invest in the bloodlines and trainers, aiming for another champion title.
“The only thing better than one championship is two,” Murphy said, laughing.
Futurity® Western Bloodstock Sale.
“I was talking to Zane a couple of years ago and I said, ‘Let’s go find a champion,’” Ty Jenkins explained. “It’s like rolling the dice. You never know what you’re going to get, but [Constellations] looked good, and he had the look in his eyes, so we bought him and went to work on him.”
Davis gave Constellations his barn name, “Farkus,” after Scott Farkus, the school bully in the movie, “A Christmas Story,” for the horse’s stubborn personality. This was the first NRCHA premiere event and futurity win for Lazy T R anch’s résumé.
“It motivates you,” Jenkins said. “You want to keep doing it more and more.”
Their next goal is the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Championship title. With that goal in mind, he shared his advice for owners interested in stepping into the cow horse world.
“Enjoy the journey,” he advised. “The journey is as much fun as the destinat ion sometimes.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEBBIE JENKINS
Ty and Debbie Jenkins of Lazy T Ranch have enjoyed the journey to the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Intermediate Open Championship with Constellations (Dual Reyish x Playguns Star x Playgun).
THE BLANKET PERFECTED
THAT’S A WRAP
A Winning TEAM
Ruth Nixon owns Metallic Sannrey (Sannman x What A Rey x TR Dual Rey), the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Limited Open Champion, ridden by Trapper Lowndes. While she grew up around horses, Metallic Sannrey, affectionately known as “Chapo,” was her first futurity prospect to be with a trainer. Her brother, Nathan Horsman, is the current president and founder of the Alaska Reined Cow Horse Association, and Nixon credits him with her step into the cow horse world.
“My brother is the biggest reason that I got into it,” she said. “He knows a lot of people, and he was friends with Trapper, and that’s how I met Trapper.”
Over the last few years, she started breeding cow horses.
“It was a dream to own my own stallion—my own proven stud—and have him as the foundation for a breeding program,” Nixon said.
In April of 2024, she decided it was time to find her dream horse.
“It was two or three days that we looked at horses,” she remembered. “Metallic Sannrey was the last horse we looked at. The very last one.”
She bought the 2022 stallion as a 2-year-old, and he had a large checklist to fulfill for Nixon—which he did with flying colors. Nixon still can’t wrap her head around this win, as someone who decided less than two years ago that she wanted a futurity prospect.
“It’s a team deal,” she stated. “Without a good trainer and a good horse, you’ll struggle.
Without one of the pieces, it wouldn’t have been attainable. She thanked Lowndes and his family for their endless support.
“People are like, ‘Man, you lucked out on that horse,’” she said. “And I’m like, ‘What about the trainer?’ I lucked out on him, too!”
Nixon expressed that it was their communication that pushed the partnership to the championship title, and that would be her advice to new owners. She explained, make sure you have a reputable trainer—one you can trust and are comfortable with—and have a good, clear line of communication.
“IT’S A TEAM DEAL. WITHoUT A GooD TrAINer AND A GooD HorSe, YoU’LL STrUGGLe.”
—Ruth Nixon
“My brother said, ‘You should’ve bought a lottery ticket when you bought that stud,’” she recalled. “And I said, ‘Well, I did buy a lottery ticket.’ I’m well aware how uncommon this is—to be where I’m at with the first horse. To me, it’s an honor to own him. It’s a privilege to own him. It’s a blessing to own him.”
She’s excited to continue supporting and investing in both Chapo and Lowndes in and out of the arena.
“I have some big plans for him,” she expressed. “We’ll keep moving forward and keep trying to reach these goals.”
Ruth Nixon, owner of Metallic Sannrey, the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Limited Open Champion, credits the communal effort from trainer Trapper Lowndes and their family and friends for the title.
PHOTO COURTESY OF RUTH NIXON
Trusted Nutrition Since 1996
Developed by Veterinarians to Address Health at the Cellular Level
All four wellness formulas provide omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, trace minerals, amino acids and more to transform horse health at the cellular level — head to hoof, coat to gut. Now, with 1,100 IUs of vitamin E. Each bucket encompasses thousands of hours of research and the finest ingredients available.
WELLNESS & PERFORMANCE FORMULA
Platinum Performance® Equine, because of the comprehensive nature, ingredients work synergistically at the cellular level to support every aspect of health and performance.
Recommended for:
• Young horses
• Performance horses
• Senior horses
• All activity levels
WELLNESS & PERFORMANCE + DIGESTIVE CARE
Platinum Performance® GI provides probiotics, prebiotics and additional glutamine for gastrointestinal and immune health in addition to comprehensive wellness support.
Recommended for:
• Digestive health concerns
• Occasional loose stool
• Difficulty maintaining weight
• Travel, training or competition
WELLNESS & PERFORMANCE + DIGESTIVE & JOINT SUPPORT
Platinum Performance® DJ is an innovative one bucket solution, combining advanced support for healthy digestion and joint function with premium wellness ingredients.
Recommended for:
• Performance & senior horses
• Seasonal allergies & respiratory care
• Advanced digestive & joint needs
• Gastric & hindgut maintenance
WELLNESS & PERFORMANCE + COMPLETE JOINT SUPPORT
Platinum Performance® CJ, the only supplement of its kind, combines ASU in addition to other joint supporting ingredients with a whole-horse wellness formula.
Recommended for:
• Advanced joint care needs
• An injury or discomfort
• Intense training or competition
• Adv. tendon & ligament support
ON Paper
Scootering (Scooter Kat x Bar Gal For Hire x Gangster Chic), the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Level 1 Open Champion, trained and shown by McKaul Carnahan, is owned by Maya Horsey—on paper, anyway.
“I bought her as a weanling; she foaled three days after my mare foaled,” Horsey said. “I’ve known her since the day she was born, and she and my Call Me Mitch baby did everyt hing together.”
Once the horse was of age, Horsey sent the horse to NRCHA professional Jared Jones, where assistant trainer McKaul Carnahan started working with her. Horsey expressed that Carnahan and “Ottie,” named after Horsey’s niece, worked well together. Around the same time, she was ready to move back to England, so she sold Ottie to Carnahan in April, but the papers still need to be transferred.
“I came to America for work in 2007 for one year, and I stayed 18,” she said with a laugh.
While here, she stayed at renowned horseman Monty Roberts’ place in California while Phillip Ralls, NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman® and Million Dollar Rider, was there. Horsey had spent most of her life riding English, then transitioned into reining and eventually moved into the cow horse pen, inspired by her exposure to Ralls’ program. She brought three cow horses with her to England but left three Call Me Mitch babies in training in the U.S. She says she’s biased toward “Mitch” babies because she’s known Ralls since he was 16.
Despite moving back to England, she remains a dedicated supporter of the cow horse world. She livestreamed the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity—sometimes at 2 a.m. due to the time difference—and was excited to watch Scootering, not realizing her name would still be listed as the owner. Carnahan and Scootering also won the Level 1 Open Futurity championship at that event. Horsey shared her excitement for Carnahan and Ottie for taking home two notable wins in his first year of competing in cow horse.
“I OWN A HorSe THAT'S NoW GoNe AND WoN AT THe NrcHA SNAFFLe bIT FUTUrITY®!”
—Maya Horsey
Her advice for someone wanting to get into cow horse is to “just do it.” This advice comes from someone who’s moved across the ocean and changed disciplines twice. She expressed her surprise at how much things have changed from 18 years ago.
“I didn’t even know what ‘snaffle bit’ meant when they were talking about going to the [NRCHA] Snaffle Bit [Futurity®],” she said, laughing. “The journey’s been intense in 18 years to suddenly think, ‘OK, a horse I owned has now gone and won at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®!’”
Maya Horsey, the on-paper owner of the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Level 1 Open Champion Scootering (Scooter Kat x Bar Gal For Hire x Gangster Chic), encourages new owners and members to “just do it” as someone who moved across the ocean and switched disciplines.
THE COWBOY RIDES AWAY
Les Vogt lived a life of no fear, no regrets and happy horses.
BY MEGAN ARSZMAN
“ Their measure of a man was what kind of horseman he was, not how much land he had...”
— Les Vogt
Les Vogt, one of the most influential horsemen in the Western performance industry, started his journey not on a flashy show horse but on a humble Shetland pony. As a young boy inspired by Hollywood cowboys like Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, he spent countless hours in the saddle, galloping past trees and imaginary audiences while chasing his own Wild West adventures.
Vogt was a true cowboy’s cowboy. He was born into a family of horsemen, first inspired by his grandfather Chet Vogt, a horse trader in Central California. And that humble Shetland pony will go down as the first horse that Vogt would break and train, all for a bounty of $50 and the inspiration to continue the trade throughout his life.
At age 14, he began working under Johnny Lamont at Sun A Via Ranch. He worked alongside vaqueros who wore Angora chaps and had long tapaderos hanging from their stirrups. They practiced traditional vaquero horsemanship, transitioning a horse from the hackamore to the tworein and then the spade bit. He absorbed every piece of their horse knowledge he could, immersing himself in the artistry of the Spanish vaquero tradition and using it to develop his own style of horsemanship.
“Their measure of a man was what kind of horseman he was, not how much land he had, and that stuck; once you get that in your blood, it never goes away,” Vogt recalled when reminiscing about his NRCHA Hall of Fame induction.
NRCHA Hall of Fame member Les Vogt passed away September 6, 2025.
That style led to a historic career, with Vogt winning more than 30 major championship titles, including 15 world championships in reining and reined cow horse, as well as winning the inaugural NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® with Wrong Key in 1970 (tying with Bobby Ingersoll and Leocita Chex), and repeating this achievement in 1973 with Wrangler Chex. It seemed like Vogt was never one to turn down a challenge, whether it was a stubborn pony, sticking to broncs for eight seconds or even purchasing what would become a pivotal stallion for the Quarter Horse and stock horse industries. On a whim, Vogt called Fritz Watkin and asked the cowboy if he’d ever be interested in selling his stallion. Watkin responded that he’d just decided five minutes prior to Vogt’s phone call that he was willing to sell King Fritz. Without asking for a price, Vogt said, “I’ll take him.” He took a leap of faith on a horse that started the reign of Chex horses, sweeping the largest stock shows across the country.
Throughout his career, Vogt experienced great highs and overcame lows, always with his head held high and an infectious spirit that spurred any rider who spoke with him to become a better horseman. After losing King Fritz and essentially restarting his career in the late 1970s, Vogt discovered he had a gift for teaching and for crafting beautiful pieces of silver into functional bits and spurs. He traveled
across the country sharing his insights and years of knowledge, whether it was how to get a horse to perform a plus-one stop or explaining why that same horse would respond better to one style of mouthpiece versus another.
Much like how being a horseman was a family tradition, so was designing and making bits and spurs. Vogt’s father started the family business, and Vogt followed in his footsteps around 1980. Combining his two passions, he became one of the few bit makers who could test his own bits on his horses to understand why each bit worked in a particular way and then advise other trainers on how to properly bit up their horses. He earned the nickname “Bit Doctor” and made himself available to anyone aiming to get the desired results with their horses.
Always dedicated to never stop learning and challenging himself, Vogt shifted his focus from the cow horse to competing in reining. He cited the accuracy and finesse that the discipline demanded as what sparked his interest to change from his longtime focus. This was in addition to his hobby of team roping.
In a series of Facebook videos recorded in the months before his death, Vogt continued sharing stories and tips with anyone willing to listen. In one video, he emphasized the importance of recognizing that horses have self-esteem and the need to build that relationship between horse and rider.
“I want my horses to think, ‘Oh, boy, here comes Les. We’re going to really have a good time and I’m going to display what I can do. I’m happy,’” Vogt said. “But how does that happen? Make it a point that every day with that horse, set something up that gives you a chance to reward him for the ride that day. Never put him away with him frustrated or fired up…set things up to where you can make him real happy, you can pet him and you can say, ‘Hey, I really like you. I’m looking forward to tomorrow.’ You’ll see the expression on your horse. My horses are my buddies, and I hope yours are, too.”
Vogt won many championships, including the 1973 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Championship.
RAGEDY TOTTRIUMPH
The Swales brother-sister duo, paired with Bowie Nights, proved unstoppable in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open finals.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
When Veronica Swales had a major accident at the National Stock Horse Association Pre-Futurity, leaving her in an induced coma, it might’ve seemed like the end of the road for her 2025 futurity prospects. But while she fought for her life, her husband, Clay Volmer, and brother John Swales got the wheels turning to keep Veronica’s goals for her horses a reality. After all, she knew from the beginning that Bowie Nights (Metallic Cat x Lil Bit Reckless x CD Royal), owned by Bar One Land & Cattle LLP, was a special mare who represented a great opportunity to win.
As it turned out, she was right. But the opportunity to take the title wasn’t hers—it was her brother John’s, a two-time World’s Greatest Horseman® Champion.
“She was really easy to get along with and, whatever I put her through, she tried really hard,” Veronica shared about training the mare. “So, yeah, I had a really good feeling about her.”
Bowie Nights is a three-quarters sibling to Veronica’s 2024 NRCHA Stallion Stakes Open Champion Spanish Nights, a horse she didn’t pilot until after her futurity year.
“[Spanish Nights] was always a little testier,” she said. “[Bowie Nights] has always been a little easier going.”
Veronica’s deep understanding of her horses, paired with her training style, turned out to be the keys to success when John took the reins just days before the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® began. She and John have always been close and share similar training and riding styles.
“John and I rode together a lot as kids,” Veronica said. “So, he’s ridden my horses for me before, and I’ve been a catch-rider for him on horses he’s trained. I turned him loose, and if he had any questions, I’d answer them. But I let him do his own thing. I didn’t want to make it really complicated for him.”
John agreed that the horses were ready, thanks to Veronica’s training and her husband and their assistants keeping the mare tuned up.
“Her horses felt amazing,” John recalled. “I just went ahead and showed them to
2025 NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY®
PRESENTED BY METALLIC CAT OPEN TOP 10
Fort Worth, Texas—October 3–18, 2025 (Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money)
1. Bowie Nights; John C. Swales; 22M (Metallic Cat x Lil Bit Reckless x CD Royal); Bar One Land & Cattle LLP; 662.5 (H: 217.5/R: 220/C: 225); $200,000
2. Von Jovii; Corey D. Cushing; 22G (Stevie Rey Von x She Wood In Time x One Time Pepto); Bar One Land & Cattle LLP; 657.5 (H: 218/R: 218/ C: 221.5); $125,000
3. RAB Shiney Scooter; Russell A. Probert; 22G (Scooter Kat x This Shiney Miss x WR This Cats Smart); Danny B. Turner; 654.5 (H: 219/ R: 217/C: 218.5); $100,000
4. Gibberissh; Abbie Phillips; 22S (Smooth Talkin Style x Hiss N Vinegar x Dual Smart Rey); Jeffrey W. & Jennifer Foland; 654 (H: 219/R: 219/C: 216); $81,500
5. Mink Seville; Boyd J. Rice; 22S (Metallic Cat x Dual Rey Mink x Dual Rey); Austin & Stacy Shepard; 653.5 (H: 217.5/R: 218.5/C: 217.5); $63,500
6. High Brow Casual; Shane L. Steffen; 22M (High Brow Cat x Dressed In Oak x Olena Oak); South Cove Ranch LLC; 652 (H: 216.5/ R: 219/C: 216.5); $55,000
7T. Reyal Blaque; Corey D. Cushing; 22S (Badboonarising x Reyal Money x Dual Rey); A Bar A Ranch; 650.5 (H: 214/R: 215/C: 221.5); $36,000
7T. Bet Hez Gunnatrashya; Abigayle A. Mixon; 22G (Bet Hesa Cat x Shez Not Trashy x Gunnatrashya); Stanton Ranches Inc.; 650.5 (H: 217/R: 217/C: 216.5); $36,000
7T. Shining Stevie; Sarah L. Dawson; 22M (Stevie Rey Von x Just A Sparknshine x Shining Spark); Russ Mothershead; 650.5 (H: 218.5/R: 218/ C: 214); $36,000
10. Steve Mc Queen; Jake R. Barry; 22S (Stevie Rey Von x Just Ask Me Nice x Captain Nice); Deah M. Hessian-Ruple; 650 (H: 213.5/ R: 215/C: 221.5); $27,000
John Swales triumphed for himself and his sister when he won his first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® aboard a mare his sister, Veronica, had trained. Bowie Nights and Swales marked a 662.5 (H: 217.5/R: 220/C: 225), earning the $200,000 payday for owner Bar One Land & Cattle LLP. Bowie Nights was bred by Russ and Janet Westfall.
the best of my ability. It was a lot more straightforward than I thought it was going to be. That mare is an incredible horse, and she’s very well-trained.”
Never one to sit in the stands, Veronica stationed herself at the back gate for each of the phases of the Open finals. Once John and Bowie Nights made it through the Open herd work finals with a 217.5, Veronica had a feeling they were set up for success.
“The mare was great,” John said. “She was pretty
the crowd got louder and louder—so much so that John couldn’t hear the music, the judges’ horn or the announcer say the score: a 225 that clenched the title. But John didn’t know, because he couldn’t hear the score.
“I knew he’d won,” Veronica said with emotion in her voice. “They hadn’t even said the score, and I turned away from the gate and was crying. Chris and Sarah Dawson were there and gave me hugs.
good on my first and second cows. I didn’t get a third cut. I had a red cow pop up behind me, but I didn’t see it. There were only two or three seconds left when I got another cut, so I think that hurt me a little. I was happy with the 217.5 but was hoping for more.”
Next, they went to the reined work, where Bowie Nights finished second in the phase with a 220.
“I was very happy with her in the reining,” he said. “She was right with me. I tried to run her in those fast circles, and she came right back to me. She was great in the slow circles, and then she stopped huge and turned fast. I don’t think I could’ve asked any more of her in the reining.”
As often is the case, it came down to the cow work to decide the winner. There’d been solid runs leading up to John’s in the last set.
“You know what, I hadn’t been keeping track of the scores,” he said. “So, I had no idea where I was sitting. They turned out that black cow, and it seemed to have some move. A lot of the cows hadn’t been running that night, so I hit a couple times on the end wall and sent it down the fence hoping it would turn—and it did.”
As John and Bowie Nights completed that run,
When I watch the videos, I still get very emotional. Winning the Snaffle Bit Futurity has been on my brother’s bucket list a very long time. I feel so fortunate for him that he’s finally been able to check that off. It’s pretty cool that I trained the one he did it on. Growing up, he trained so many horses that I was very successful on. I feel like I’ve been able to return the favor.”
“Veronica and Clay were right there when I walked out,” John said. “She was crying, so I figured then that I must’ve taken the lead.”
A 662.5 took the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open title, along with $200,000 and many other prizes. But it also marks an exceptionally unique situation where brother and sister get to share in the glory—both in winning and Veronica being able to be part of the night.
“It’s really cool,” John concluded. “Obviously, I’m happy with how it turned out. [Veronica] always believed that horse was good enough to possibly win, and it couldn’t work out better. I was really glad for her that I was able to help make that happen and that she was healthy enough to see it happen.”
& CO.
“I was really glad for her that I was able to help make that happen and that she was healthy enough to see it happen,” said John Swales about winning the Open title on the horse his sister, Veronica, far left, had prepared.
KIESE
LTE: $153,320 • 8 PANEL: N/N
MILLION DOLLAR SIRE
CD OLENA X SHINERS DIAMOND GIRL (SHINING SPARK), NRCHA SUPREME REINED COW HORSE, PE: $750,000+
LTE: $179,883 • 8 PANEL: N/N NO. 1 NRCHA HORSE OF THE YEAR
CD DIAMOND X CAT MIST (HIGH BROW CAT), DAM OF THE EARNERS OF $1,300,000
Two years ago, Ty Jenkins came to NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider Zane Davis, interested in a prospect to aim at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. Davis’ daughter, Zayle, spotted Constellations at the National Cutting Horse Association yearling sale and made the purchase.
“He was everything we look for on paper and certainly decent-looking,” Davis said. When the sorrel stallion proved quirky, Davis kept patiently working with the horse, seeing the potential. That persistence paid off.
“He matured as this year went on,” Davis shared. “It took right up until that last week at the Futurity for him to settle in and figure out everything. Better late than never, because it turned out really good for him.”
In the prelims, a slow cow in the fence
work didn’t let the horse perform up to his potential and his score kept him out of the Open finals. But in the Intermediate Open finals, Davis felt like Constellations was solid in all three events.
“He did everything I asked him,” Davis said. “His cow down the fence ran really hard. This horse is really fast, so I knew there wasn’t a cow in Texas that could outrun him. I knew as long as the fence turn didn’t scare him, we’d be in good shape.”
It all came together in the end with a 656.5 (H: 216/R: 220/C: 220.5), earning $45,000 for owner Lazy T Ranch.
“My daughter is really proud that she made such a good choice that day at the sale,” Davis said with a smile. “I don’t even go with her anymore. I just call her and tell her who needs a horse, and she goes and finds them. I place an order, give her a budget and she finds them.”
Shortly after becoming an NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider, Zane Davis found himself in the spotlight again, this time with Constellations (Dual Reyish x Playguns Star x Playgun), bred by Cara Brewer. They marked a 656.5 (H: 216/ R: 220/C: 220.5), earning $45,000 for owner Lazy T Ranch.
///// MEET
Since 2019, Metallic Cat has served as the presenting sponsor of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. Owned by Rocking P Ranch, of Weatherford, Texas, the red roan stallion’s show career amassed $637,711 in lifetime earnings and several championship titles, including the 2008 National Cutting Horse Association Open Futurity Champion and 2009 Breeder’s Invitational Open Derby Champion. Following an impressive career in the cutting pen, Metallic Cat (High Brow Cat x Chers Shadow x Peptoboonsmal), affectionately known as “Denver,” has become one of the industry’s most influential and successful sires. He’s an NRCHA Nine Million Dollar Sire, and his influence can be seen in every corner of the reined cow horse sport.
LIMITED OPEN FUTURITY
Going into the finals, Trapper Lowndes had an axe to grind…with himself. He didn’t have the prelims he wanted—even though they were enough to make it to the finals—and he wasn’t going to settle when it came to chasing down a title with Metallic Sannrey.
“I didn’t get him shown how I wanted in the reined work,” Lowndes said. “He was a 219, so he was good, but I didn’t get him stopped how I wanted. Then I was really timid in the herd [marking a 214]. And then I didn’t get down the fence at all in the prelims [marking a 205]. I got to worrying too much about how much I could do on a horse instead of how much that horse is going to do for me.”
It was time for a reset. Lowndes consulted his mentors Todd Bergen and Corey Cushing to get on the right path.
“I got a pretty big lecture from Todd and Corey,” he said. “I worked for Todd, and Corey has known me for years—since I was a kid. They told me I had to be sure to dot my Is and cross my Ts and not over-show in the reined work.”
That advice and Lowndes’ adjusted mindset came to fruition when the pair marked a 221 in the herd work finals and a 222 in the reined work finals. Before the fence work, Cushing once again had a heart to heart with Lowndes.
“We made a little game plan, starting with being smart on that back wall,” he explained. “We covered those little things that we’ve been telling our non pros for years, but we might forget, and they add up.”
A 216 down the fence made for a total 657, which clenched the Limited Open title and a $20,000 check for Lowndes and Metallic Sannrey (Sannman x What A Rey x TR Dual Rey), owned by Ruth Nixon and bred by SDP Buffalo Ranch. Lowndes looks forward to building on their momentum at the Celebration of Champions in 2026.
LEVEL 1 OPEN FUTURITY
McKaul Carnahan made his NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® debut in Fort Worth with Scootering (Scooter Kat x Bar Gal For Hire x Gangster Chic). The bright lights and crowds are a far cry from the time he spent cowboying on a Wyoming ranch before joining NRCHA professional Jared Jones as an assistant.
“I started working for Jared Jones about a year ago,” he shared. “He had this mare in
Scootering (Scooter Kat x Bar Gal For Hire x Gangster Chic) and McKaul Carnahan won the Level 1 Open title with a 647.5 (H: 218/R: 214/C: 215.5). The mare was bred by Shannon McCarty.
Metallic Sannrey (Sannman x What A Rey x TR Dual Rey), owned by Ruth Nixon and bred by SDP Buffalo Ranch, and Trapper Lowndes topped the Limited Open Futurity with a 657 (H: 221/R: 222/C: 216) for $20,000.
training, and I’ve been riding her since. She was really green in some spots, but she’s super smart and picked it up really fast, especially with me being new to cow horse.”
Carnahan’s time cowboying might’ve been quite different than being in the show pen, but it also could be what helped him achieve his first big win.
“It’s a lot different, just being outside instead of in an arena,” he said. “But I think it helped a lot because you have to get one real broke outside the same way as you do for inside.”
The Level 1 Open title is based on the preliminary round of competition, which began with the reined work in Fort Worth. It might not be Carnahan’s favorite phase of the event, but he and his horse marked a solid 214.
“It was a lot better than I expected,” he shared. “She gets a little strong in the reined work, but she was a lot more with me.”
Carnahan was proud of the mare’s 218 in the herd work, where she again surpassed his expectations. They finished up with a 215.5 down the fence for a 647.5 total to win the Level 1 Open title and $25,000. Additionally, they made the Intermediate and Limited Open Finals, tying for seventh in the Intermediate Open and tying for sixth in the Limited Open. All told, the first-time NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® competitor brought in $44,900
OPEN RESERVE, OPEN CHROME CASH & OPEN GELDING INCENTIVE
Von Jovii/Corey Cushing
(Stevie Rey Von x She Wood In Time x One Time Pepto)
Score: 657.5 (R: 218/H: 218/C: 221.5)
Payout: $125,000; $5,220; $8,076
Owner: Bar One Land & Cattle LLP
Breeder: DRS M J & Sue Christensen
INTERMEDIATE OPEN RESERVE
Gibberissh/Abbie Phillips
(Smooth Talkin Style x Hiss N Vinegar x Dual Smart Rey)
Score: 654 (R: 219/H: 219/C: 216)
Payout: $33,000
Owner: Jeffery and Jennifer Foland
Breeder: Jeffery and Jennifer Foland
LIMITED OPEN RESERVE
Cant Ride My Scooter/Chase Trahern
(Scooter Kat x NQH Shesa Spoonful x Hesa Peptospoonsful)
Score: 652 (R: 220/H: 214/C: 218)
Payout: $15,000
Owner: Chase Trahern
Breeder: Kristen and Jake Stephens
LEVEL 1 OPEN RESERVE (TIE)
Shesa Smart Outlaw/Brady Collup
(Shiney Outlaw x One Smart Long Legs x One Time Pepto)
Score: 643 (R: 215/H: 212/C: 216)
Payout: $15,750
Owner: M3 Hilltop Ranch
Breeder: Michelle Cannon
OPEN LADIES
Shining Stevie/Sarah Dawson
(Stevie Rey Von x Just A Sparknshine x Shining Spark)
Score: 657 (R: 219.5/H: 217/C: 220.5)
Owner: Russ Mothershead
Breeder: Donald Murphy
LEVEL 1 OPEN RESERVE (TIE)
SPH It Takes Two/Brock Hieber
(High Brow CD x CR Too Catty x Cat T Masterson)
Score: 643 (R: 213/H: 214.5/C: 215.5)
Payout: $15,750
Owner: Donald Brent Shepherd
Breeder: Donald Brent Shepherd
OPEN SALE INCENTIVE
Thundr Strukk/Shadd Parkinson
(Metallic Cat x Lightening Strike x Dual Rey)
Score: 656.5 (R: 222.5/H: 216.5/C: 217.5)
Payout: $25,984
Owner: Hannes Winkler
Breeder: Teton Ridge Ranch
EARS IN THEYMAKING
After several near-misses, Myles Brown finally claimed the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Championship on his homebred stallion, Painted Shadows, making the victory a true family affair.
BY KRISTIN PITZER | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
Myles Brown has been knocking on the door of an NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Championship for years. He came close last year when he piloted Eddie B Tuff R A B to the reserve title, only half a point behind first. In other years, he led the composite only to have disappointing fence work runs. But this year, his patience paid off when he rode Painted Shadows (Scooter Kat x Miss Scarlets Cat x Metallic Cat) to a 656, winning the championship and $50,000.
“It’s a dream come true,” Brown said. “It’s been a goal for about 10 years, and we’ve come close. It sure makes finally accomplishing that goal that much sweeter. To do it on one that my wife and I raised that out of a mare as special as his mother, it’s a real blessing to us.”
Brown and the stallion kicked off the finals as draw one of the first set in the herd work. Brown’s goal was to replicate their preliminary round, which the duo won, but the cattle didn’t cooperate. He went into survival mode instead and marked a 216, giving them a solid start toward their three-score composite.
In the reined work, he again hoped to re-create their prelims performance. While Painted Shadows stepped up and wanted to be good, he was a bit tired, Brown noted. Still, the duo marked a 218.5, winning that phase.
“That horse has so much look and eye appeal,” Brown said. “Even when he’s not being his best, he’s still awfully good.”
Shortly before their cow work run, Shannon Haskins and Just A Stylish Boon—the eventual Non Pro Reserve Champions and winners of the Intermediate and Limited Non Pro division—marked a 225 down the fence, pushing them into the lead. The pressure was on, and Brown knew he and Painted Shadows would need to do something big to secure the win.
“We couldn’t just go in there and mark a 212 and win it; we needed to go get shown,” Brown said. “I wanted to be aggressive. I didn’t want to over-box; I wanted to leave with as much cow as I could, go show my horse and put him in a position to win. Fortunately, it worked.”
2025 NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY®
PRESENTED BY METALLIC CAT NON PRO TOP 10
Fort Worth, Texas—October 3–18, 2025 (Rider/Horse/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money)
1. Myles Brown; Painted Shadows; 22S (Scooter Kat x Miss Scarlets Cat x Metallic Cat); Myles Brown; 656 (H: 216/R: 218.5/C: 221.5); $50,000
2. Shannon Haskins; Just A Stylish Boon; 22M (Bet Hesa Boon x Justa Lil Stylish x Playin Stylish); Shannon Haskins; 652 (H: 213/R: 214/C: 225); $25,000
3. Carmen Buckingham; TC The Duke; 22G (Stevie Rey Von x Catnips x Gunnatrashya); Tom and Carmen Buckingham; 646.5 (H: 216.5/R: 213.5/ C: 216.5); $16,500
4. Debbie Crafton; Barbie Mandrell; 22M (Stevie Rey Von x Maliblu Barbie x Smart Boons); Debbie Crafton; 646 (H: 215.5/R: 217.5/C: 213); $14,500
5 (TIE). Kelsey Delaplaine Fulmer; She Raised The Bet; 22M (Reyzin The Cash x Bet Shesa Jule x Bet Hesa Cat); Kelsey Delaplaine Fulmer; 645.5 (H: 213/R: 212.5/C: 220); $9,000
5 (TIE). Tammy Jo Hays; Smart Talkin; 22S (Smooth Talkin Style x Dulces Smart Chet x Smart Lil Ricochet); Tammy Jo Hays; 645.5 (H: 218.5/R: 208/C: 219); $9,000
7. Debbie Crafton; Y Knot More Magic; 22G (Dual Reyish x Sister Magic x WR This Cats Smart); Debbie Crafton; 645 (H: 212/R: 214.5/C: 218.5); $7,000
8. Jayson Fisher; Trashin; 22S (Gunnatrashya x Camilla The Cat x WR This Cats Smart); Jayson and Teresa Fisher; 644.5 (H: 212/R: 215.5/C: 217); $5,750
9. Parke Greeson; SCR Bad Bama Jama; 22G (Bamacat x Playin With Monty x Mr Playinstylish); Sarco Creek Ranch; 642 (H: 214/R: 213.5/C: 214.5); $4,500
10 (TIE). Jayson Fisher; Lock It Down; 22S (Metallic Cat x Abbey Roan x One Time Pepto); Jayson and Teresa
(TIE). Hope Mills; Shesafighttrisk; 22M (Bet He Sparks x Seven S Prettysmart x Dual Smart Rey); Hope Mills; 640.5 (H: 217/R: 212/ C: 211.5); $4,000
Myles Brown and his homebred stallion, Painted Shadows (Scooter Kat x Miss Scarlets Cat x Metallic Cat), took home the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Championship with a composite 656 (H: 216/ R: 218.5/C: 221.5).
Brown and Painted Shadows marked a 221.5 in the cow work, launching them into first, then had to wait through two sets afterward to see if their score would hold. Brown admitted there was some anxiety, but he knew whatever was meant to be would happen.
When the dust settled, the pair’s composite remained at the top of the leaderboard. Their victory carried meaning beyond the title—it was also a family triumph for the Browns and Painted Shadows’ dam, Miss Scarlets Cat. Brown showed the mare to the 2017 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Limited Open and Level 1 Open championships and described her as cowy, bright and smart. He was pleased that her son felt similar in the show pen.
“They’re excited about going to work in the morning, extremely comfortable in their own skin, phenomenal athletes and intelligent horses,” he said of Miss Scarlets Cat and Painted Shadows. “As odd as it sounds, it’s like they’re a different species than most horses. They make you feel like such a good hand. They have so much God-given ability.”
Brown was especially thrilled to have his 1-year-old son, Joseph, in attendance for his victory. He thanked his wife, Jaylee, and their families for their unwavering support.
“I absolutely adore Jaylee, and I couldn’t do anything without her,” he said. “My mom and dad, Talley and Rob A., have been so supportive of all my dreams and aspirations, and my in-laws, Jay and Shelly Hall, have been, too. That’s kind of what the non pro is about—families working together to go have fun and enjoy the horses. That’s what we try to do.”
INTERMEDIATE AND LIMITED NON PRO FUTURITIES
Early in the futurity season, Shannon Haskins and Just A Stylish Boon were on a roll. The duo swept the Non Pro divisions at the National Stock Horse Association Futurity in August, then took third in the Non Pro and Reserve in the Intermediate and Limited Non Pro at the Reno Snaffle Bit Futurity in September. Haskins had planned to stick to the West Coast futurities and skip the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® altogether, but due to her early success, her trainer, Jake Gorrell, along with Nick Dowers and Flint Lee, urged her to take Just A Stylish Boon to Fort Worth. Haskins followed their advice and bought a slot, a move that paid off when she rode the mare to a composite score of 652, winning the Intermediate and Limited Non Pro championships and taking reserve in the Non Pro.
“It was literally a dream come true,” Haskins said. “My mare is incredible and has been a true, huge blessing. She just keeps getting better.”
The duo kicked off their finals runs in the herd work, where they marked a 213. Haskins admitted she was disappointed in their run—they performed their cuts well,
and Just A Stylish Boon was good, but Haskins said their second cow was numb and didn’t let the mare showcase what she could do.
In the reined work, they remained consistent by marking a 214. The mare had a couple of bobbles, but otherwise she was solid, Haskins noted. Still, she realized they’d have to do something big in the cow work to climb their way up the leaderboard.
Haskins knew the first cow kicked out into the arena wasn’t going to be the one they needed to achieve that goal and breathed a sigh of relief when the whistle was blown for a new cow. As it turned out, cow No. 2 was exactly what she was hoping for—one that had some life to it and would allow her mare to show off her skills.
“It was 100% the best run I’ve ever made,” Haskins said. “It was the run you dream of. We circled right in the middle in front of the judges. She made two huge fence turns. She boxed perfectly. I don’t think I’ll ever top it.”
The pair’s efforts were rewarded with a 225 from the judges, the highest cow work score in the class. That pushed them into the lead in the Intermediate and Limited, and they banked $14,000 for those titles, plus another $25,000 for reserve in the Non Pro.
Haskins was grateful for the turn of events that led to their success in Fort Worth, a story that began even before this year’s futurity season. Just A Stylish Boon (Bet Hesa Boon x Justa Lil Stylish x Playin Stylish) was originally bred by Haskins’ sister, who owned her dam. At the time, Haskins wasn’t set up to have mares and foals, so the mare was sold in-utero. Haskins couldn’t get her out of her head, though, so she inquired after her and bought her.
Shannon Haskins and Just A Stylish Boon (Bet Hesa Boon x Justa Lil Stylish x Playin Stylish) claimed the Intermediate and Limited Non Pro Championship titles, as well as the reserve in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro division, with a 652 (H: 213/R: 214/C: 225).
“I felt like she was really meant to be mine,” Haskins said. “She’s gritty, very confident and sure of herself. She doesn’t get rattled. She’s such a team player. She lets you put her where you need to, and she’s just a cow horse. She loves going down the fence and circling up.”
NON PRO AND LEVEL 1 BOXING FUTURITIES
BY JENNIFER PAULSON
When Nick Dowers and Tha Rizzler lost a cow in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open herd work prelims, it seemed the sun had set on one of the Futurity’s favorite’s chances to sit in the winner’s circle. Then it dawned on the family that 17-year-old daughter Tuli could take the reins and show Tha Rizzler (Metallic Rebel x Starlight Playmate x Grays Starlight) in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Boxing.
She’d never ridden the family-owned horse, other than trotting him around before Nick showed him in the herd work. She didn’t have any plans to show at all—she even had to go buy show shirts. But Tuli was up for the challenge.
“I was really excited to have the chance,” she said. “My dad said, ‘I’d trust any one of my kids to ride my horses any day.’ It’s cool that he trusted me.”
With the faith of her family behind her, Tuli confidently took on the reined work to start, her favorite portion of the event, marking a 218.
“He was so good,” she said. “He was smooth in his circles with no penalties. Then I let him do his stuff in his spins and stops.”
Going into the herd work, Tuli and Tha Rizzler sat in a solid second place.
NRCHA welcomes Oswood Stallion Station as the sponsor of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro division. Thanks to their support, this year’s winner of the Non Pro division was guaranteed to take home a $50,000 check.
“We value our non pro riders, and it’s wonderful to see a close friend of NRCHA step up to sponsor this division of the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®,” said NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “Oswood Stallion Station represents some of the top Western performance stallions, including those siring top reined cow horses. We’re proud to partner with them in this recognition of our talented non pro riders.”
Oswood’s state-of-the-art facilities, high level of care and commitment to all facets of the breeding industry set it apart. The Weatherford, Texas, facility provides on-site breeding, embryo transfer, foaling services, mare care, sales prep and more.
Learn more about Oswood Stallion Station at oswoodstallionstation.com
“We watched the cows heavily,” she said. “When I walked in, my dad pointed out the cows we’d picked, and they were right there. He, Jake Telford, Shane Steffen and Corey Cushing were my herd help.”
The pair won that phase with a 217. When it came time for the boxing, no one could’ve predicted what would happen when they earned a huge 225.
“My score was huge, but I wasn’t trying to make a huge run,” she said. “I wanted to hold my cow and make it work to have a good run. It was really fun.”
That put the pair in a solid spot going into the boxonly finals during the Non Pro Futurity Finals.
“It was nerve-wracking,” she admitted. “I wanted to do good and knew I was leading. If I marked a 205, I could win. Watching at the back gate, I thought the cows looked good. The one I got was a little different— he was a little numb, and I had to get up close. He made me work for it, but it turned out good.”
A 222 put them firmly at the top with a 882 composite—17 points ahead of second place.
Nick typically lets his kids show their own horses with little coaching. He trusts their training. But this time, Tuli said, was a little different.
“This show, he helped me more than usual,” she said with a smile. “At other shows, they’re our horses, and he wants us to put in the work and win on our own. He helps us, but he’s not on us all the time. Since this was his horse, it was a little different.”
A high-school senior, Tuli looks forward to a future with horses after graduation.
“I’m all horses, all the time,” she said. “It consumes me. I’d like to do something with horses, maybe breeding or training.”
Tuli Dowers and Tha Rizzler (Metallic Rebel x Starlight Playmate x Grays Starlight) topped the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Boxing with an 882 composite (R: 218/H: 217/C: 225/ F: 222), winning $10,000. She earned $1,700 for the Level 1 Non Pro Boxing Futurity.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO RESERVE, LIMITED NON PRO RESERVE & LEVEL 1 NON PRO
(Gunnatrashya x Camilla The Cat x WR This Cats Smart)
Score: 645 (R: 217.5/H: 213.5/C: 214)
Payout: $160
Owner: Jayson And Teresa Fisher
Breeder: Chappell-White Partnership
LEVEL 1 NON PRO RESERVE
Isabelle Scheffel/LCR Bemitched
(Call Me Mitch x LRR Smart Sioux Zett x A Shiner Named Sioux)
Score: 632 (R: 209.5 /H: 209/C: 213.5)
Payout: $6,250
Owner: Lance Scheffel
Breeder: Lisa Reiter
SELECT NON PRO RESERVE
Lori Wyman/Miss Tuff Cat
(Woody Be Tuff x Markin This Cat x WR This Cats Smart)
Score: 641.5 (R: 217.5/H: 209/C: 215)
Payout: $120
Owner: Richard JR & Lori Wyman
Breeder: Wagonhound Land & Livestock LLC
NON PRO BOXING RESERVE
Nicole Petty/SheBoonzy
(Bet Hesa Boon x Smokin Hot Gal x Hottish)
Score: 864.5 (R: 218.5/H: 213/C: 211.5/F: 221.5)
Payout: $7,500
Owner: Bennirus and Nicole Petty
Breeder: Tammera Hartman Bishop
SELECT NON PRO BOXING
Cheryl Chown/Princess Dianna
(Woody Be Tuff x Short And Royal x Short Oak)
Score: 639 (R: 210/H: 213/C: 216)
Payout: $140
Owner: Chown Quarter Horses
Breeder: Chown Quarter Horses
LEVEL 1 NON PRO BOXING RESERVE
Addisyn Grilli/Lil Miss Outlaw
(Shiney Outlaw x Lil Lena Long Legs x Smart Little Lena)
Score: 644.5 (R: 218.5/H: 212/C: 214)
Payout: $1,425
Owner: Addisyn Grilli
Breeder: Michelle Cannon
SELECT NON PRO BOXING RESERVE
Diane Edwards/Stevies Bugatti
(Stevie Rey Von x Lillys Bugatti x A Shiner Named Sioux)
Score: 635.5 (R: 208.5/H: 211/C: 216)
Payout: $105
Owner: Diane Edwards
Breeder: Fulton Quien Sabe Ranches LP
NON PRO CHROME CASH
Tammy Jo Hays/Smart Talkin
(Smooth Talkin Style x Dulces Smart Chet x Smart Lil Ricochet)
Score: 653.5 (R: 220.5/H: 215/C: 218)
Payout: $2,400
Owner: Tammy Jo Hays
Breeder: Randon Adams
NON PRO SALE & GELDING INCENTIVES
Parke Greeson/SJR Mists Stylishrey
(SJR Diamond Mist x SJR Stylish Reyata x Dual Rey)
Score: 647 (R: 213/H: 218/C: 216)
Payout: $11,136; $3,760
Owner: Sarco Creek Ranch
Breeder: San Juan Ran
NON PRO BOXING CHROME CASH
Diane Edwards/Stevies Bugatti
(Stevie Rey Von x Lillys Bugatti x A Shiner Named Sioux)
Score: 635.5 (R: 208.5/H: 211/C: 216)
Payout: $1,680
Owner: Diane Edwards
Breeder: Fulton Quien Sabe Ranches LP
PRESIDENT’S AWARD: CHRISTINA ALLEN
Christina Allen directs the practice pens at NRCHA premier events.
BY PAIGE BRANDON
The ability to school horses at shows, especially the 3-year-olds during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, is instrumental in their road to a champion title or money earned.
During each NRCHA premier event, horse trainers and non pro riders fill the days with showing off their mounts. Those horse show runs, with the thrills of sliding stops and fabulous fence turns, are supported by highly organized practice works, managed by NRCHA professional Christina Allen, the 2025 recipient of the NRCHA President’s Award.
Allen was selected for her endless work behind the scenes at premier NRCHA events—always with a smile on her face. Recipients of this award are characterized by their unwavering support to NRCHA and its members, and who embody the spirit of the cow horse industry.
“Christina Allen is cheerful, dependable and always willing to go the extra mile,” shared NRCHA President Paul Bailey. “Her dedication to the NRCHA runs deep, and her smile shows up before the sun does. If commitment were an NRCHA event, Christina would be riding out with the trophy saddle and a standing ovation every time she left the arena.”
Allen started in the cow horse over 20 years ago, working for NRCHA Million Dollar Rider and Hall of Famer Anne Reynolds.
“I was living in the same town that Anne lived in, and I heard she was hiring, so I drove out there,” Allen explained. “I said, ‘Hey, I heard you were hiring.’ The rest is history.”
Allen always stayed in touch with the cow horse industry. She grew up riding and used to train cow
the National Stock Horse Association to NRCHA about three years ago.
The NRCHA atmosphere at any premier event is universally recognized as friendly. Allen fosters this with her continual and contagious positive attitude, welcoming everyone to the practice pen. She’s responsible for everything running smoothly and keeping track of whose turn it is.
“It’s nice to be appreciated, especially when you love what you’re doing,” Allen shared about receiving the award. “Everyone in the cow horse makes my job so much better. They’re super nice and friendly and make my job fun.”
The practice schedule gives everyone a chance to step foot into the show pen, and Allen works to execute it smoothly and as timely as possible. Allen is a key part of the NRCHA premier events and a well-deserving recipient of the NRCHA President’s Award.
The 2025 President’s Award was presented to Christina Allen for her dedication to managing the NRCHA premier event practice pens for horse and riders to have their best chance in the show pen.
About the President’s Award
The President’s Award is given annually to a selected individual who’s passionate and dedicated and goes above and beyond for the association.
horses full time but now focuses on her own horses. She transitioned from a role at
DIRECTOR’S AWARD: OTTO DE FAZIO
Reined cow horse is taking the world by storm, thanks in part to European Reined Cow Horse Association Board of Directors member Otto De Fazio.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON
Many in the cow horse family give their time, leadership and expertise to grow the sport, and some take it a step farther to help it thrive beyond expectations. Otto De Fazio, the recipient of the 2025 NRCHA Director’s Award, has shared his passion for reined cow horse and its future in Europe, leaving a lasting mark on an entire continent.
“I first became involved with reined cow horse in 2004, when I went to see the first competition in Manerbio, Italy,” De Fazio shared. “From there, I really started to like the discipline. I had some experience in reining, so I went home and asked Markus Schopfer if he could teach me and guide me to enter my first cow horse competition.”
De Fazio entered his first reined cow horse competition in 2005. His first memory of competing was in the Non Pro Boxing class, but his first time down the fence is unforgettable for him.
“When I first went down the fence in the Non Pro Bridle—that was truly a show I still remember today,” he said. “And then what I will never forget is my first futurity in 2008 with my 3-year-old at Americana, where we managed to make it to the finals.”
In 2010, he joined the European Reined Cow Horse Association Board of Directors, and since 2017 he’s served as the association’s secretary. He plays a pivotal role in every ERCHA show and activity, working tirelessly behind the scenes. He’s also a respected judge, officiating in the Czech Republic, Poland and France. His deep involvement in cow horse has allowed him to witness firsthand the sport's growth and evolution in Europe.
“Year after year, I’ve seen this discipline grow in Europe,” he shared. “Today, this discipline has really reached beautiful numbers, and I see increasing participation.”
NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel and President Paul Bailey presented De Fazio with his award at the 2025 Americana show.
“What truly sets Otto apart is not just his service or his titles—it’s who he is,” Konkel said. “He’s known for his passion, his kindness and his generosity. He has given his time, energy and heart to this sport and to the people who love it. He’s not only a leader and a judge, but also a friend—someone who cares deeply about the future of reined cow horse in Europe and about the community that makes this discipline so special.”
De Fazio expressed his gratitude to Schopfer, Laura Ruffino, Alessandro Dezzuto and Peter Trixer, as well as Bailey and Konkel.
Otto De Fazio (center) visited the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and was honored in the arena for his service to reined cow horse in Europe.
THE RIOS OF MERCEDES FAMILY OF BRANDS
ULL THROTTLE TO FIRST F
Cooper McCleskey and TRR Full Throttle won the Cowboy Class at the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, presented by Metallic Cat.
BY PAIGE BRANDON | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
As a working cowboy, it’s a privilege to take a horse to town. Cowboys use the phrase, “taking one to town” to describe seasoning a young horse by hauling them to a competition. When young horses prove themselves on the ranch, they earn the opportunity to show off in town, much like the cowpunchers of the past, who were rewarded with a trip to town after days (or weeks) at cow camp. For Cooper McCleskey, not
only did TRR Full Throttle earn a day in town, but also a championship title.
For TRR Full Throttle (Pepcid x TRR Playgun Showgirl x TRR Big Iron), a 4-year-old stallion owned and bred by Tongue River Ranch, it was his first time at a major event.
“He loves cattle, to run, stop and turn around,” McCleskey said. “He had all the parts to be a good show horse.”
McCleskey explained that at the ranch, he had the working pieces, and the pair needed the right
Cooper McCleskey and TRR Full Throttle claimed the Cowboy Class victory at the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® with a 431 composite.
COWBOY CLASS TOP TEN OVERALL
1. Cooper McCleskey; TRR Full Throttle; 21S (Pepcid x TRR Playgun Showgirl x TRR Big Iron); Tongue River Ranch; 431; (R: 139/C: 146.5/SS: 145.5); $4,137.50
2. Ryan McCoy; RSR Ethan Hunt; 20G (Dual Smart Rey x Stylin Sweetie x Stylin Cat); Ryan and Julie McCoy; 430.5; (R: 141/C: 144/ SS: 145.5); $3,310
3. Henry Birdwell; Billies Blaze; 15G (High Brow Cat x Billies Smart Lena x Smart Little Lena); John Henry Birdwell; 428; (R: 136/ C: 146.5/SS: 145.5); $2,482.50
4. Ryan McCoy; Kittys Stunning Lady; 18M (Stunned x Bodees Kitty x Bodee Boonsmal); Ryan and Julie McCoy; 427; (R: 139.5/ C: 145/SS: 142.5); $1,986
5. Maegan Teykl; Little Natural Blue; 19M (Natural Bottom x Dear Little Pepto x Peptoboonsmal); Hip-O Cattle Company II LLC; 424.5; (R:139.5/C: 141/SS:144); $1,655
6. Ryan Byrd; Jonez Heatwave; 19G (Farmer Jonez x Havin A Heatwave x Seven S Heatwave); Durrett Cattle Co; 420; (R: 143/ C: 144/SS: 133); $1,324
7. (TIE) Dylan Steeley; Cowboys Rey A161; 21S (Little Dulces Rey x Cowboys Shining 306 x Seven S Toronado); Mike or Martha Armitage; 418.5; (R: 142.5/C: 139.5/SS: 136.5); $827.50
7. (TIE). Waylon Davis; Hey Mitch Que Paso; 21S (Call Me Mitch x Cowgirl Sparkles x Shining Spark); Waylon Davis/James Penisten; 418.5; (R: 143/C: 131.5/SS: 144); $827.50
9. Lydia A. Brown; Ranchin Royalty RAB; 16G (One Time Royalty x Shesa Rock Hancock x Hesa Eddie Hancock); Rob A. Brown; 416; (R: 139.5/C: 144.5/SS: 132)
10. Wesley Jackson; Stevies Stylish; 20S (Stevie Rey Von x Stylish Baby Doll x SR Instant Choice); Clint Jackson; 415.5; (R: 128/C: 141/ SS: 146.5)
By half a point, Ryan McCoy and RSR Ethan Hunt were the reserve champions with a 430.5 composite.
backdrop to bring everything together and show it off.
McCleskey and TRR Full Throttle tied with Henry Birdwell aboard Billies Blaze (High Brow Cat x Billies Smart Lena x Smart Little Lena) in the cow work for the high score of 146.5. During the award ceremony, Birdwell and McCleskey raced on foot, claiming the high score cow-work buckle. The runner-up would have his mailed later. From the middle marker to the end marker, it was a close race until Birdwell took the lead. McCleskey joked that if he’d been on TRR Full Throttle, he would’ve won.
“One thing he can do is run,” McCleskey said with a smile.
He admitted that the last thing he expected was to be in a foot race in the John Justin Arena and initially thought the announcer was joking.
“I thought, ‘I’m going to lose; I’m a distance runner,’” he said, laughing.
For McCleskey, foot races and horse shows are both marathons, not sprints. He scored a 139 in the reined work. Paired with his score in the cow work, he went into the steer stopping in second place. His impressive 145.5 roping score boosted him into the lead by a point. Although he didn’t take home the buckle from the foot race, he did win the class champion buckle in the cow work, along with a check for $4,137.50.
This is one of the recent accomplishments of 21-year-old McCleskey. The day after the Cowboy Class, also during the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, he piloted South Wichita (Bet Hesa Cat x Gins Last x Natural Pick) to second place in the Limited Open Bridle, earning $1,680. At the 2025 Kalpower Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions, McCleskey rode South Wichita to victory in the Cowboy Class, presented by the Four Sixes Ranch.
Riders must have earned less than $15,000 in either the open or non pro divisions and be currently employed by a livestock or ranching operation to be eligible for the NRCH A Cowboy Class.
McCleskey is the horse trainer for Tongue River Ranch in Paducah, Texas, which encompasses 89,000 acres along the river that shares its name. The Tongue River Ranch is best known for its livestock and breeding operations, earning numerous accolades, including the American Quarter Horse Association Best Remuda Award in 2011.
“Working for them is such a blessing,” McCleskey said. “They’re great people and so supportive. It’s a good feeling to work for them and to represent that ranch.”
He expressed his happiness to be part of a legacy of good horses and good people, which includes his own family. While McCleskey was in high school, his parents worked at the Tongue River Ranch. When he moved there full time after college, it felt like returning home. Both the Tongue River Ranch and his showpen success represent full-circle moments for McCleskey. His father, Elwyn McCleskey, won the American Quarter Horse Association Versatility Ranch Horse World Championship in 2016. Riding for Tongue River Ranch is a dream come true for him.
“I get to train horses all the time, and then I get to go help the guys cowboy, too,” he said. “It's the best of both worlds.”
He is honored to add this win to his belt.
“The Cowboy Class makes cowboys want to train better horses to compete in Fort Worth,” he said. “That's the most fun thing to do is go compete there.”
McCleskey is excited to continue working for the Tongue River Ranch and showing their horses, especially when they earn their moment in town. His name is one that the cow horse industry will continue to recognize.
“I'm thankful for the opportunity the ranch gives me to compete,” he said. “I wouldn't be anywhere right now without them supporting me to go do this and try to promote the program.”
ORSE SHOW HHIGHLIGHTS
Top competitors vied for hefty paychecks and bragging rights in the horse show classes at the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®.
COMPILED BY NRCHA STAFF | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
OPEN BRIDLE
INTERMEDIATE OPEN BRIDLE
Owner: L & K Barker Family Trust
Breeder: L & K Barker Family Trust
Smart Nicholas/Robert Chown
(WR This Cats Smart x Secrets Lil Liz x Lizzys Gotta Player)
Score: 293.5 (R: 144.5/C: 149)
Payout: $3,047.50
WR Iceman/Corey Cushing
(WR This Cats Smart x Lean Irish Playgirl x Paddys Irish Whiskey)
Score: 437.5 (R: 219.5/C: 218)
Payout: $11,720
Owner: Eric & Wendy Dunn
Breeder: Mary Scott Brown
START SAVING YOUR TIME, MONEY, AND HAY.
Get at least 94% out of each hay bale with the revolutionary Hay Chix hay net.
High Quality
Veterinarian Approved
Handmade in Texas
Easy to Use
LIMITED OPEN BRIDLE
Bet Hesa Turnin/Riley Friesen
(Bet Hesa Cat x Stoppin And Turnin x Cattys Little Lena)
Score: 285.5 (R: 140.5/C: 145)
Payout: $2,100
Owner: Darvin & Tammi Strutt
Breeder: Darvin & Tammi Strutt
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO & LEVEL 1 NON PRO BRIDLE
Adam D. Williams/Dirtyy Little Secret
(Woody Be Tuff x Catmas x That Sly Cat)
Score: 289.5 (R: 142/C: 147.5)
Payout: $2,500; $1,758.40
Owner: Adam/Jana Williams
Breeder: Roberta Thompson
NON PRO BRIDLE
Debbie Crafton/SJR Sumkindarockstar
(Smooth As A Cat x Sumkinda Pinkcadilac x Peptoboonsmal)
Score: 295 (R: 145.5/C: 149.5)
Payout: $5,232.50
Owner: Debbie Crafton
Breeder: San Juan Ranch
SELECT NON PRO BRIDLE
Oteka Gibson/Rey Of Suspicion
(Catty Hawk x Reychel x Light N Lena)
Score: 284 (R: 140/C: 144)
Payout: $680
Owner: Oteka Gibson
Breeder: Hilary & Tom Watson
OPEN & INTERMEDIATE OPEN TWO REIN
Mere Royalty/Ron Ralls
(One Time Royalty x Mereyda x Dual Rey)
Score: 291.5 (R: 147/C: 144.5)
Payout: $5,508.50; $1,650
Owner: Richard M Bell
Breeder: Michelle Cannon
NON PRO TWO REIN
Adeline G. Bricker/Sparkn
(Stevie Rey Von x Quickin x Boonlight Dancer)
Score: 291.5 (R: 143.5/C: 148)
Payout: $2,550
Owner: Adeline G. Bricker
Breeder: Dick or Kippi Cogdell
LIMITED OPEN TWO REIN
Tornado Jonez/Travis Fisher
(Stevie Rey Von x Missi Jonez x Travelin Jonez)
Score: 277.5 (R: 137/C: 140.5)
Payout: $1,050
Owner: Top Fuel Ranch
Breeder: Missi Jonez Partnership
OPEN HACKAMORE
Hott And Juicy/Jordan Williams
(Hottish x Smart Kitty Rey RG x Dual Rey)
Score: 437.5 (R: 215.5/C: 222)
Payout: $14,660
Owner: Bonds Ranch
Breeder: Dustin and Deena Adams
INTERMEDIATE OPEN HACKAMORE
Swoop Dogg/Jake Barry
(Metallic Cat x Blue Rey x Dual Rey)
Score: 298.5 (R: 145.5/C: 153)
Payout: $3,150
Owner: Jake Barry
Breeder: Trey Fricke
NON PRO HACKAMORE
Tylor R. Todd/Tiny Dancr
(Smooth Talkin Style x Peptos Little Dancer x Peptoboonsmal)
Score: 294.5 (R: 144/C: 150.5)
Payout: $3,000
Owner: Tylor R. Todd
Breeder: Adh Mor-Big Luck Ranch
LIMITED OPEN HACKAMORE
(Stevie
Score: 290 (R: 141.5/C: 148.5)
Payout: $2,025
Owner: Bridget Smith
Breeder: Jimmie Jack Smith
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO HACKAMORE
Maisen Avent/Stylin Trixie
(Stylin Cat x Miss Acre San x Peppys King Chex)
Score: 287.5 (R: 141/C: 146.5)
Payout: $585
Owner: Maisen S Avent
Breeder: Greg Nite
Ima Jackie Rey/Isaac Johnson
Rey Von x Ima Sixy Chick Anna x Ima Doc Olena)
BOX DRIVE
Amy R. Stoney/Sparkville
(Gunners Tinseltown x Sparklight Lillies x Lena Spark)
Score: 296 (R: 148/C: 148)
Payout: $2,800
Owner: Amy R. Stoney
Breeder: Teresa K. Putman
NON PRO BOXING
DJ Crafton/Voodoo Sweetheart
(Shiners Voodoo Dr x Very Smart Sweetheart x Very Smart Remedy
Score: 296.5 (R: 148/C: 148.5)
Payout: $4,900
Owner: Debbie Crafton
Breeder: J. Pearson
SELECT BOX DRIVE
Cheryl
(Shiners Voodoo Dr x Short And Royal x Short Oak)
Score: 293 (R: 143/C: 150)
Payout: $510
Owner: Robert and Cheryl Chown
Breeder: Chown Quarter Horses
INTERMEDIATE & LIMITED NON PRO BOXING
Amanda D. Friesen/Judge Boon
(Peptoboonsmal x Missuma x Smart Little Lena)
Score: 292.5 (R: 144/C: 148.5)
Payout: $1,940; $1,340
Owner: E.J. Laubscher
Breeder: Lenis Fitzsimons
Chown/Xtra Short Trick
SELECT
NON PRO BOXING
Cheryl Chown/Xtra Short Trick
(Shiners Voodoo Dr x Short And Royal x Short Oak)
Score: 292.5 (R: 146 /C: 146.5 )
Payout: $825
Owner: Robert and Cheryl Chown
Breeder: Chown Quarter Horses
YOUTH COW HORSE 13 & UNDER
Addisyn R. Grilli/Im Everychics Dream
(Smart
Score: 276.5 (R: 145.5 /C: 131)
Owner: Addisyn Grilli
Breeder: Anderson Performance Horses
YOUTH COW HORSE
Taylor Allen/Shinen Metallic Cat
(Metallic Cat x Winenshineme x Shining Spark)
Score: 295 (R: 145 /C: 150)
Payout: $1,537.20
Owner: Taylor Allen
Breeder: Russ Mothershead
YOUTH
BOXING & YOUTH BOXING 13 & UNDER
DJ Crafton/Voodoo
(Shiners Voodoo
Score: 294.5 (R: 149.5 /C: 145)
Payout: $1,350
Owner: Debbie Crafton
Breeder: J. Pearson
Sweetheart
Dr x Very Smart Sweetheart x Very Smart Remedy
Chic Olena x Didit N Dunit x Reminic N Dunit)
RECORDS FALL AT 2025 NRCHA
SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® WESTERN BLOODSTOCK SALES
The two-day sale showed a strong market for reined cow horses.
Saturday, October 18, 2025, was a banner day for the NRCHA, as this year’s NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Sales concluded at Will Rogers Equestrian Center in Fort Worth, Texas. The two-day event, managed by Western Bloodstock, reinforced the value and popularity of American Western performance sports and the pride that inspires their owners and breeders.
A record 14 horses were sold for $100,000 or more during the sales, with an average of $38,691 (an increase of 22% over 2024 sales) over both days, and with an outstanding sales rate of 89%. Additionally, the Western Bloodstock Sale Incentive paid out $95,300.
Express, a sorrel yearling Reyzin The Cash filly, consigned by Beverly Servi/Servi Quarter Horses, sold in Saturday’s Select Yearling and Broodmare Session, to Clinton Anderson as agent, for Michael Miola of Scottsdale, Arizona, for $350,000. It was the
Mooolah
Mooolah Express (Reyzin The Cash x Metallic Train x Metallic Cat), consigned by Beverly Servi/Servi Quarter Horses, sold in Saturday’s Select Yearling and Broodmare Session, to Clinton Anderson as agent, for Michael Miola of Scottsdale, Arizona, for $350,000. It was the highest seller of the two-day sale.
highest price from both days, topping Friday’s record high of $260,000 for the yearling Ringwoods Roan Edge, by Third Edge.
Mooolah Express, by AQHA/APHA double-registered Reyzin The Cash (LTE $278,381), sire of earners of $11,434,970, is out of the Metallic Cat daughter Metallic Train LTE $185,900, an NRCHA Open Hackamore World Champion and NRCHA Open Stallion Stakes Champion, as well as the dam of four money earners of $241,596, including two major top-10 NRCHA event finalists.
Saturday’s Select Yearling and Broodmare Sale Session II broke the record for highest recorded average of $39,612, a sale rate of 88% and nine horses selling for $100,000 or more, breaking the record for that number sold in one session.
Blazze A Trail, consigned by Tracer Gilson, agent for Loren Booth Living Trust, sold for $170,000, Saturday’s second-highest price. The sorrel yearling filly by NCHA Open Finals Champion WR This Cats Smart LTE $236,514, was purchased by RDL Investment Management LLC, in Midland, Texas. Blazze A Trail is out of Shiney Nu Annie (LTE $104,961), an NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Reserve Champion and NRCHA Celebration of Champions Open Derby Champion and the dam of earners of $565,454, including Blazze A Trail’s full siblings Annies Smart Cat (LTE $141,908), NRCHA World Open Bridle Champion, NRCHA Open Hackamore Classic Champion and NRCHA Open Stallion Stakes Bridle Spectacular Champion. NRCHA Open Hackamore Classic Champions Nu Passport (LTE $125,517) and Cats Nu Shine (LTE $110,028) are also full siblings to Blazze A Trail. Winning bids of $165,000 claimed How Bout Dis and Von Playboy on Saturday, as well. Both yearlings are sired by Stevie Rey Von (LTE $420,903), a leading NRCHA sire with combined NCHA and NRCHA offspring earnings of $19,953,670.
Consigned by Chappell Horse Sales, agent for Alan and Allison Chappell, How Bout Dis was purchased by Colby Lovell of Midway, Texas, agent for Theorem Ranch LLC. The red roan filly is out of Dis Cats Dynamite (LTE $109,043), a WR This Cats Smart daughter and the dam of four money earners. Bay roan colt Von Playboy, consigned by Musacci
Performance Horses and purchased by Cruz Rendon of Laredo, Texas, is out of Lean Irish Playgirl (LTE $15,884), and is a half-brother to multiple NRCHA major events finalist WR Iceman (LTE $139,339), by WR This Cats Smart (LTE $236,514).
Shes A Style Icon, consigned by JC Sale Fitting, agent for Kelby and Abbie Phillips, sold for $157,000 to Loren Booth of Orange Cove, California. The red roan yearling filly, by Peptos Stylin Time out of the Smooth As A Cat daughter Shes Twice As Smooth (LTE $196,569), is a half-sister to earners of $656,611, including Kreyzy Horse (LTE $200,129), NRCHA Celebration of Champions Open Derby Reserve Champion and NRCHA Open Hackamore Classic Bridle Spectacular Champion.
For complete results from the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Sales and information about the 2025 NCHA Futurity Sales and consignments, visit westernbloodstock.com.
Topping Friday’s sale was Ringwoods Roan Edge (Third Edge x Abbey Roan x One Time Pepto), consigned by JC Sale Fitting Agent for Sarah Deane Ringwood and purchased for $260,000 by June Scripps of Fredonia, Texas.
WHERE VISION MEETS
At Rafter P, we craft custom builds designed to fit your farm, ranch, and lifestyle, built to last for generations. From concept to final walkthrough, our skilled team delivers precision, purpose, and unmatched craftsmanship. We collaborate closely with you at every step, ensuring a home or project that works as hard as you do and reflects your vision in every detail.
HERE’S TO THE OWNERS!
The owners of reined cow horses play vital roles in our organization and our premier events.
COMPILED
BY
NRCHA STAFF / PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
During the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, NRCHA honored the owners of Open division entries with a reception at the Silver Fox in Fort Worth, Texas. Sponsored by AgTrust Farm Credit and Metallic Cat, it was an evening for owners to celebrate the achievements of the horses they’ve helped put on paths to success, including the prestige of competing in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® finals
WATER WORKS
Even in the cooler months, hydration is key.
BY JOE CARTER, DVM
As summer ends and fall arrives, remember how important it is to keep your horse hydrated. It’s not just something for summer.
Many horses are finicky when it comes to drinking. Hence the saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.”
One common problem with drinking water is that tap water tastes different in various cities. The water’s source influences its flavor. For example, well water tastes different from lake water. Water from the Arizona aquifer tastes different than water from the mountains near Boise, Idaho. Water treatment also affects the taste. Cities chlorinate water for public health reasons, which adds a distinctive flavor that’s very different from unchlorinated water. That’s why high-end restaurants often serve bottled mineral water as an alternative to tap water.
Municipalities may use different levels of chlorine, which can result in different tastes. These variations can influence how water tastes from city to city. If you use unchlorinated well water on your ranch, your horse might dislike the taste of chlorinated city water in places like Fort Worth, Texas, or Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Additionally, well water’s taste can fluctuate based on its mineral content, whether it is hard or soft, or its salinity. Generally, well water is considered to taste better because it lacks chlorine.
One thing that happens in the fall is lake inversion. Remember your high school physics: cold water and cold air—anything cold— are heavier than their warm counterparts. As temperatures drop, the surface temperature
of lakes also decreases. Cold water becomes heavier than warm water. Cold surface water will begin to sink, and warmer bottom water will rise to the top. The lake “inverts.”
This makes the lake water used for drinking taste “muddier” in the fall compared to the rest of the year. Think about it: water near the muddy bottom of the lake rises and is then drawn into your faucet.
There are several tricks to try to mitigate the varying tastes of drinking water for your horse. The first trick is to place an RV water filter on the hose used for watering horses at horse shows. Charcoal filters purify better than paper filters. The second trick to try is adding flavor to your water. Apple juice has always been a go-to. I know one finicky gelding that needs ⅓ apple juice in his buckets, or he dehydrates to the point of needing IV fluids at each show. Increasing salt intake also increases water consumption. You can top-dress feed or drench your horse with a salt slurry to increase salt intake. It also helps him sweat. Soaking hay or making a mash out of pelleted feeds will also increase water consumption. Throwing a small handful of textured molasses feed into a bucket of water is another trick to sweeten it. The molasses will give the water a light tea color.
Temperature can also influence water consumption. Horses typically prefer moderate, room-temperature water around 70 degrees. So, warm it up during the winter.
There are many tricks to encourage your finicky horse to drink water. If you have questions about horse hydration, contact your local veterinarian.
Joe Carter, DVM, Oklahoma Equine Hospital and Official NRCHA Veterinarian
CUT THROUGH THE CONFUSION. WIN WITH CONFIDENCE.
EQUINE THERAPEUTIC SPAS
Your Horse Deser ves a Co ld Creek
Promotes Healing
Prevents Injur y
Aids Recover y
Minimizes Inflammation
Reduces Pain & Soreness
Enhances Performance Capability
O ur C
Marine grade 304 Stainless Steel
Durable touchscreen controls
signed
State-of-the-ar t cold sal twater spas desig d to enhance your athlete’s performance
Fully insulated plumbing and tank
Allows automated treatment programs for up to 20 horses
Tracks treatment time for billable ser vices
Title & Presenting Sponsors
Corporate Sponsors
Breeder Sponsors
Industry & Facility Partners
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Paul Bailey Vice President: Trey Neal Secretary: Ben Baldus Treasurer: Todd Crawford
Executive Committee Members: Dr. Joe Carter, Lance Johnston, Cayley Wilson
Board Members: Todd Bergen, Corey Cushing, Diane Edwards, Jay McLaughlin, Boyd Rice, Dan Roeser, Jon Roeser, Beverly Servi, Jake Telford, Lori Wyman
COMMITTEE DIRECTORY
To contact committee chairs, visit nrcha.com/board-and-committee/
AFFILIATES
Chairperson: Jay McLaughlin
ANIMAL WELFARE
Chairperson: Joe Carter, DVM
ETHICS
Chairperson: Trey Neal
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chairperson: Trey Neal
HALL OF FAME
Chairperson: Dan Roeser
HORSE SALES
Chairperson: Todd Crawford
JUDGES
Chairperson: Lance Johnston
Director of Judges: Bill Enk
NRCHA FOUNDATION
Chairperson: Chelsea Edsall
NON PRO
Chairperson: Diane Edwards
OWNERS
Chairperson: Lori Wyman
PROFESSIONALS
Chairperson: Cayley Wilson
RULES
Chairperson: Dan Roeser
SHOWS
Co-Chairperson: Ben Baldus
Co-Chairperson: Cayley Wilson
SPONSORSHIP
Chairperson: Patty Tiberg
STRATEGIC PLANNING
Chairperson: Emily Konkel
YOUTH
Chairperson: Sarah Clymer
MARKETING
Chairperson: Callie Boevers
STAFF
Executive Director: Emily Konkel emily@nrcha.com
Director of Marketing: Callie Boevers callie@nrcha.com
Director of Incentive & Sponsorship: Patty Tiberg patty@nrcha.com
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.
Keetch Ranch, Waddell, AZ
Desert Spring Ranch, Queen Creek, AZ
Chris Anderson, CA Performance Horses, Marietta, OK
Jim Babcock, Babcock Ranch, Sanger, TX
Lorena Bechtholdt, Flying P Paints & Quarter Horses, Fallon, NV
Marilyn Bowling, Oasis Ranch, Inc., Jacksboro, TX
Pete Bowling, Oasis Ranch, Inc., Herald, CA
Donnie Boyd, Sarasota, FL
Rod Brents, Childress, TX
Robyn Bush, Visalia, CA
Blair Bynum, Bynum Farms, Palm City, FL
Marcy Campbell, Creston, CA
Riccardo Capezzone, Castrocielo, FR, Italy
Pompeo Capezzone, Castrocielo, FR, Italy
Nonie Casselman-Reed, Touchstone Land Ranch LLC., Stephenville, TX
Quenten Childs, Cleburne, TX
Utah Reined Cow Horse Association
Morgan Miller 3185 W 15200 N Collinston, Utah 84306
A finance charge of 1.5% per month (18% APR) will be added to all past due amounts. Membership privileges shall be suspended on accounts greater than 90 days past due and this information will be published in Reined Cow Horse News. There will be a membership reinstatement fee of $75.
Cody Christensen, Heber City, UT
Elizabeth Clary, Dark Horse Consulting, Inc, Inkom, ID
Justin Crawley, Crawley Ranch, Springdale, AR
Tom Daughetee, Kemmerer, WY
Shad DeGiorgis, El Dorado Hills, CA
Laura Delfino, Martinez, CA
Kinsey Dodson, Cleburne, TX
Pat Faitz, Lakeland, FL
Robert Frobose, Modesto, CA
Miguel Gonzalez, Unique Ranch, Miami, FL
Roy Hockensmith, Frankfort, KY
Brian & Cynthia Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Brian Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Cynthia Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Brandon Johnson, Nebraska City, NE
Bridgette Lanham, Eastover, SC
Terry Malarkey, Lazy T Shamrock Ranch, Star, ID
Thera Myers, Oxnard, CA
Current as of November 3, 2025
Andrew Ospital, Valley Springs, CA
Susan Ray, Dream Cross
Tara Reed, Rosston, TX
Kalli Reed, Rosston, TX
Darren Roberts, Kent, NY
Gordon Robinson, Big Rock Arena, Granum, AB, Canada
Gina Roidopoulos, Saddle Creek Ranch, Heath, TX
Randall Russell, Del Cielo Ranch, Decatur, TX
Aneka Schelbeck, Del Rey Paint & Quarter Horses, Cottonwood, CA
Jill Serena, Castaic, CA
Vernon Smith, Santa Maria, CA
Rick Steed, Steed Training, Okeechobee, FL
Don Stockman, Dayton, TX
Tracy Wager, Bridle and Bits, Cave Creek, AZ
Rita Ward, Canyon, TX
Elizabeth Winkle, Sarasota, FL
LAE = Limited Aged Event, HS = Horse Show
Dates
SHOW SCHEDULE
Current as of November 3, 2025
Jan 10 National Western Stock Show Cat 2 Denver, CO Kelsey Rhyne 661-889-8059 knichols06@yahoo.com nationalwestern.com
Jan 18-19 Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo HS, Cat 1 Fort Worth, TX Nelle Murphy 580-276-0761 whoanelley75@gmail.com fwssr.com
Jan 23-24 High Desert RCHA Show #1 HS, Cat 1 Powell Butte, OR High Desert RCHA Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com hdrcha.com
Jan 30-31 Nevada RCHA Show #1 HS, Cat 1 Las Vegas, NV Nevada RCHA Laura Norman 559-760-2768 laura.saddleup@gmail.com nvrcha.org
Feb 14-28 NRCHA Celbration of Champions HS, LAE, Cat 1, Cat 2 Fort Worth, TX NRCHA NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com nrcha.com
March 13-14 Nevada RCHA Show #2 HS, Cat 1 Las Vegas, NV Nevada RCHA Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com nvrcha.org
April 2-11 NRCHA Stallion Stakes HS, LAE, Cat 1, Cat 2 Las Vegas, NV NRCHA
NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com nrcha.com
May 1-3 Nevada RCHA Show #3 & #4 HS, Cat 1 Las Vegas, NV Nevada RCHA Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com nvrcha.org
May 27-June 6 NRCHA Derby HS, LAE, Cat 1, Cat 2 Scottsdale, AZ NRCHA NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com nrcha.com
July 12-18 NRCHA Hackamore Classic HS, LAE, Cat 1, Cat 2 Tulsa, OK NRCHA NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com nrcha.com
Aug 14-15 High Desert RCHA Show #2 HS, Cat 1 Powell Butte, OR High Desert RCHA Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com hdrcha.com
Oct 9-11 High Desert RCHA Show #3 HS, Cat 1 Powell Butte, OR High Desert RCHA Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com hdrcha.com
Oct 9-24 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® HS, LAE, Cat 1, Cat 2 Fort Worth, TX NRCHA NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com nrcha.com
4. Issue frequency: Bi-Monthly. 5. Number of issues published annually: 6. 6. The annual subscription price is $45.00. 7. Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 9702 Mineral Wells Highway, Weatherford, TX 76088. 8. Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: 9702 Mineral Wells Highway, Weatherford, TX 76088. 9. Full names and complete mailing addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor. Publisher: Marla Bickel, 7500 Alamo Rd NW, Unit A, Albuquerque, NM 87120; Editor: Callie McCarthy Boevers, 9702 Mineral Wells Highway, Weatherford, TX 76088; Managing Editor: Jennifer Paulson, 9702 Mineral Wells Highway, Weatherford, TX 76088. 10. Owner: National Reined Cow Horse Association, 9702 Mineral Wells Highway, Weatherford, TX 76088. 11. Known bondholders, mortgages and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent of more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities: None. 12. Tax status: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months. 13. Publication title: Reined Cow Horse News. 14. Issue date for circulation data below: October 2025. 15. The extent and nature of circulation: A. Total number of copies printed (Net press run). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 2953. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3341. B. Paid and/or requested circulation. 1. Mailed outside-county paid/requested subscriptions. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 2953. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3341. 2. Mailed in-county paid/ requested subscriptions. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. 3. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, counter sales and other paid/requested distribution outside the USPS. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. 4. Paid/requested distribution through other classes mailed through the USPS. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. C. Total paid/requested distribution. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 2953. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3341. D. Nonrequested distribution (by mail and outside mail). 1. Nonrequested outside-county. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 36. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 40. 2. Nonrequested rate in-county copies. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. 3. Nonrequested copies mailed at other classes through the USPS. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. 4. Nonrequested distribution outside the mail. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 375. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 40. E. Total nonrequested distribution. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 37. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 37. F. Total distribution (sum of 15c and 15e). Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 2990. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3378. G. Copies not Distributed. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 0. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 0. H. Total. Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 2990. Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3378. I. Percent paid/requested. Average percent of copies paid for preceding 12 months: 98.76%. Actual percent of copies paid for preceding 12 months: 98.90%. Total Circulation does not include electronic copies. 17. Publication of statement of ownership will be printed in the November December 2025 issue of the publication. 18. Signature and title of editor, publisher, business manager, or owner: Callie McCarthy Boevers, Editor.
