MARCH/APRIL 2025 VOLUME 30, NO. 2
Cowgirl Grit
ERIN TAORMINO claimed the 2025 World’s Greatest Horseman® with longtime partner HAZARDOUZ MATERIAL
CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS MILLION DOLLAR BREEDERS ///
ONE TUFF
CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS
/////////
COWBOY
PARKER RALSTON rode SEVEN S TUFF BOOTS to win the 2025 World’s Greatest Youth Horseman® title.
MILLION DOLLAR BREEDERS
NRCHA KIMES DERBY May 29–June 8
NRCHA HACKAMORE CLASSIC July 21–27
NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® October 3–18
CHECK OUT ALLNRCHA-APPROVED SHOWS WITH THIS QR CODE.
Ensure that your 2025 foals are nominated to the Cow Horse Incentive program! Learn more online at nrcha.com/nrcha-incentive-program.
Official Publication of the National Reined Cow Horse Association Published by Equine Network
Be sure to view, download and review the 2025 Rule Book before you head to the show pen! Find it at www.nrcha.com/ rule-book.
NRCHA 256 North Hwy 377 | Pilot Point, TX 76258 Phone: 940-488-1500 | Fax: 940-488-1499 | info@nrcha.com | www.NRCHA.com
NRCHA OFFICERS & DIRECTORS
President: Paul Bailey | Vice President: Trey Neal | 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
Advertising Sales: Shawn McCoy, 817-929-8597, advertising@nrcha.com
Reined Cow Horse News (ISSN 2380-3975, USPS 024-906) is published six times a year by the National Reined Cow Horse Association. Known office of publication: 256 N. Hwy 377, Pilot Point, Texas 76258. All contents are copyright of the National Reined Cow Horse Association. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted inany form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without prior written permission from the NRCHA. Opinions expressed in articles and advertising in Reined Cow Horse News do not necessarily reflect the positions or opinions of the NRCHA or its officers and members. Accuracy of material is the sole responsibility of the authors.Unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender’s risk and the NRCHA accepts no responsibility for them. Please address all submissions to: Reined Cow Horse News,256North Hwy 377, Pilot Point, Texas, 76258. Subscription rate is $25
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Number 2
FEATURES
68 Blazing Their Own Trail
Bonds Ranch’s focus on versatility and usability gives the ranch’s horses unique advantages.
78
Where It All Begins
A successful horse’s career begins before the animal even hits the ground, when the breeder carefully chooses a pairing to create a champion.
DEPARTMENTS
LTE $500,037.51 Sire of o spring earning $38.7 Million NRCHA $2 Million Sire
• NCHA Horse of the Year
• NCHA Hall of Fame Horse
• The ONLY NCHA Horse of the Year to sire 2 OPEN Horses of the Year
• Sire of multiple NCHA, NRCHA and AQHA World Champions
PHOTO BY MEGAN PARKS
Reyzin The Cash X Shinin Peaches by Shining Spark
Shown by Clay Roeser
Shown by Clay Roeser $ 79,000 LTE
Watch for this dynamic duo REYZIN PEACHES AND CLAY ROESER showing in the Two Rein and Bridle Spectaculars IN 2025
NOT THE REBEL Metallic Rebel X Starlights Playmate by Grays Starlight
Shown by Jake Gorrell
5,000 LTE
23,000 LTE
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
See you at the Stakes!
Our Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions was one for the record books! It was our biggest show to date, and during the Western Bloodstock Ray Shell Ranch World’s Greatest Horseman® we crowned our first woman champion, Erin Taormino. Our top-15 World’s Greatest Horseman® finalists had to best 79 competitors in the preliminary rounds, which is one of our larger fields. We can attribute some of that increased participation to our generous sponsors who provide a $10,000 prize for each phase of the prelims, which opens the doors for Western riders from other disciplines to come try cow horse and join our family.
As we look ahead, the CINCH NRCHA Stallion Stakes takes center stage in April. Thanks to our staff and board members’ outstanding work on the brand-new Cow Horse Incentive, presented by Markel, we have more than 300 stallions subscribed to the program, which helps supplement the payout to a significant new level. We encourage all our members to join us for the Non Pro Finals on Friday, April 11, and the exciting Open Finals on Saturday, April 12, at the South Point Equestrian Center. If you’re not showing, make a fun weekend getaway to join us and enjoy all the action at the South Point.
A marquee event each year during the Stakes is our Hall of Fame banquet. This year, we’ll honor our new inductees on Thursday, April 10, at 7 p.m. This meaningful ceremony highlights the careers and achievements of riders and horses, as well as the acts of service and support our inductees and honorees give to our association. We hope to see you there!
—Emily Konkel
Emily Konkel, NRCHA Executive Director
CALLIE BOEVERS
2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales
October 17th & 18th
Held duringthe final weekend ofthe NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity
Will Rogers Equestrian Center – Fort Worth, Texas
One Secret Cat
2024 Open Sale
Incentive Winner!
Owner Stephen Silva
Rider Justin Wright
Tuffer Than Metal
2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Reserve Co-CHAMPION!
Owner Sandhill Steuter Ranch LLC
Rider Veronica Swales
Daisy Jane
$250,000
Seller Beechfork Ranch
Buyer Triple D Ranches LLC
FROM THE JUDGE’S CHAIR
Understanding degree of difficulty and your score.
First of all, in the November/December Reined Cow Horse News under “Commonly Misunderstood Penalties” in the first paragraph, there was a mistake. I want to say it was a typo, but that wouldn’t be truthful. I made a mistake, and now I’ll fess up and give you the correct penalty.
The penalty for starting down the fence after the first boxing phase and not getting past the middle marker before circling back two times is a penalty score of 0. It was in the article as a 60 score, which was incorrect.
You must be on your toes to judge the box drive class correctly. The judge should whistle out the ex hibitor who can’t make it past the center after two tries and needs to blow the whistle when the animal crosses the center line after the run is complete. Also, the judging starts when the exhibitor enters the arena, but the clock doesn’t start until the cow is let into the arena and the gate is shut.
DISCUSSING DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY
Degree of difficulty is a very important subject when evaluating the substance of a work. There are so many variables that should be considered.
In the herd work, did the animal try its best to get back into the herd and the horse stayed in position to counter the animal’s moves? Or was the rider always a little late and out of position? In the first scenario, the degree of difficulty should be rewarded, and in the second, it should not. The exhibitor must be in the correct working position to control the cow for the degree of difficulty to count.
In the cow work, the degree of difficulty must remain strong from start to finish of the run for a full plus in the degree of difficulty box. For this to happen, the rider must read the cow well and make good decisions throughout the run to have enough cow left to achieve a strong finish.
Many different scenarios go with this subject. Was the exhibitor in such good position on the cow that they made something hard look easy? Or did the lack of good position make the animal run and look more difficult? The answer to all the different scenarios lies in the question: Was the exhibitor in the correct position to control the cow? If the answer is yes, the cow draw will give you the answer as to how much credit they should receive for the degree of difficulty. If they weren’t in a position to control the cow, credit would be hard to award for the degree of difficulty. Understanding the true degree of difficulty and either rewarding or not rewarding difficult situations because of your knowledge is appreciated by horsemen throughout the industry.
One last judging item nobody seems to know what to do with pertains to the herd work when the exhibitor is getting off a cow. After quitting the cow legally, the rider turns the horse 360 degrees before re-entering the herd to make another cut. What to do with this depends on each circumstance. If this were a green, limited rider who just got lost, I probably wouldn’t consider it a problem, just a mistake, and deal with it softly or not at all. If an open rider did this and got a little schooling in while doing it, I’d come off the run content on the next cow. First, it would go through my mind that his horse wasn’t working properly on the cow he just quit, or they wouldn’t do the 360-degree turn. It was probably leaning or coming up the pen or something of that nature, which should be reflected in the cow score on the cow he just got off. Here’s how I would address it, depending on the severity of the 360-degree spin. On the next cow the exhibitor cuts, I’d put a minus in the loose reins box, a minus in the courage box, and a minus in the eye appeal box. If the 360-degree turnaround was at all abusive, I’d double-minus one or two of those boxes. Usually, something isn’t going well when someone does this type of thing, but this will give you some guidelines on how to address the issue if it happens when you’re judging.
Bill Enk, NRCHA Director of Judges
“
THE EXHIBITOR MUST BE
iN ThE cOrrEcT WOrKiNG pOSiTiON TO cONTrOl ThE cOW FOr ThE DEGrEE OF DiFFicUlTY TO cOUNT.”
—Bill
Enk
FROM THE
The NRCHyA welcomes new faces and sets new goals.
BY AURORA NICOLAZZI
During the 2025 Kalpowar Celebration of Champions, NRCHyA elected the board and set goals for the year. This year, we’ll work hard with our board and youth members to do the following:
• Provide more information to our members about opportunities to ride at a collegiate level.
• Perform outreach to collegiate equestrian programs to see if they’d like to scout our riders.
• Create more opportunities for youth clinics.
• Continue with our amazing fundraisers.
If you have questions or ideas, please contact any of the youth board members, shown at right.
President Aurora Nicolazzi
Co-Southeast Representative Brylee Leach
Canadian Representative Westin Clearwater
North Central Representative Kixi Meador
Vice President Jack Kimes
Southwest Representative McKinley Blake
Northwest Representative Lela Chester
Northeast Representative Eli Naylor
Treasurer Addison Tomlinson
South Central Representative Caleb Cushing
Co-Southeast Representative Ava Turner
Junior Officer Charlie Kimes
Reporter Cole Hawk
NHSRA Representative Landri Lisac
Co-Southeast Representative Isabelle Scheffel
Secretary Katherine Kimes
FROM THE
We’re doing more for kids in cow horse.
NRCHA is proud to announce the Delaplaine Youth Grant for the 2025 show season. Kelsey Fulmer, granddaughter of the Delaplaine family, has been a lifelong horsewoman and competes as an NRCHA non pro. She has developed a strong passion for the NRCHA family, especially the youth. She wanted to find a way to help get more youth involved in NRCHA competition, thus creating the Delaplaine Youth Grant. In the interest of wanting all those with a passion to participate in the horse show experience and be a part of the NRCHA family, this program provides financial support for those with financial needs limiting their ability to compete. Youth may nominate themselves or be nominated by another person. The selection committee will blindly review the applicants to provide an equal opportunity. This means we will not know the names of the applicants when we review the applications.
Important dates to remember:
• March 26: Applications due.
• April 3: Finalists will be notified and given a short essay prompt.
• April 29: Essays due.
• May 2: Winner will be chosen and notified.
We were excited to honor the Roy Edsall Award recipient during the Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions. From the five incredible finalists, Aurora Nicolazzi was chosen for her hard work and great attitude throughout the show.
The NRCHA Foundation is looking ahead at several fun events that support our causes. At the Kimes Derby, we’ll once again host the crowd-favorite ranch doctoring competition, and we have even more coming for the 2025 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, so keep your eyes on our social media pages for special announcements!
Chelsea Edsall, NRCHA Foundation Chairperson
Some call it following in the footsteps. Others, call it handing over the reins.
Keep Cow Horse Connected
CIRCLE UP
CRAWFORD SURPASSES THREE MILLION
NRCHA professional Todd Crawford crossed $3 million in NRCHA lifetime earnings after taking the reserve champion title at the 2025 Western Bloodstock Ray Shell Ranch NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman® finals, held in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 1. He’s only the third NRCHA professional to achieve this honor.
“If you concentrate on the horses, these milestones take care of themselves,” Crawford said. “You can’t do it without the horses and people involved.”
Crawford is a fixture in reined cow horse as both an open rider and a go-to coach for non pros. His no-nonsense coaching style has led many of his students to outstanding achievements, which he thinks makes him a better horseman.
“The better you can explain something to someone, the better you understand it,” he asserted. “It makes you able to do your job better.”
Looking back on his career, Crawford said winning his first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® is a favorite moment, but all his career victories matter to him.
“Winning the Snaffle Bit Futurity was a big milestone because I’d been second three or four times,” he recalled. “But anytime you win, it’s a huge deal. It gets to be more so now, later in my career, than it might’ve been in the past. When you’re
young, you might not appreciate the wins like you should. At this stage of my life, it’s much more gratifying.”
A few of Crawford’s successes include:
• 2006 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champion with Smart Crackin Chic, where he also became an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider
• First NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider in 2012
• Two-time NRCHA Derby Champion (2009 and 2102)
• Two-time NRCHA Stakes Champion (2000 and 2006)
• Multiple-time finalist in all NRCHA Premier Events and earner of many world champion titles, with several top-10 finishes
Crawford’s commitment to cow horse— both in the arena and in service to the organization—led him to be inducted into the NRCHA Hall of Fame in 2018.
“We’re so pleased for Todd to reach this milestone in his storied career and grateful for his contributions to NRCHA’s legacy and the part he plays in its future,” shared NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “We’re fortunate to have many individuals like Todd who represent our sport on a high level with integrity.”
For a complete list of NRCHA Million Dollar Riders, visit nrcha.com/ nrcha-million-dollar-riders/
CINCH NAMED TITLE SPONSOR OF 2025 NRCHA STALLION STAKES
NRCHA proudly announces that CINCH has joined the organization as the title sponsor of the 2025 Stallion Stakes, taking place April 3–13, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the South Point Hotel & Casino. This exciting announcement comes as the Stallion Stakes gains steam and notoriety, thanks to the new NRCHA Cow Horse Incentive, presented by Markel, which guarantees a $1 million payout in the limited-age event alone.
“NRCHA and the Stallion Stakes are excellent partners for CINCH because they both represent the highest level of Western tradition, horsemanship and competition,” shared CINCH Sponsorship and Endorsee Specialist Cassi Nichols.
“CINCH is committed to supporting the Western lifestyle, and NRCHA provides the perfect platform to connect with passionate horsemen and -women who require durability, quality and authenticity from their wardrobe. The Stallion Stakes, in particular, showcases elite horses, talented riders, and forward-thinking owners who are all invested in the Cow Horse Incentive program, which aligns with CINCH’s mission to support the longevity of our industry.”
The CINCH NRCHA Stallion Stakes highlight the 4- and 5-year-old rising cow horse stars in both open and non pro divisions, competing in snaffle bits
or hackamores. Each horse is by a Cow Horse Incentive-enrolled stallion and has been nominated to the Stakes, which elevates the purse to pay not only the horses that earn checks but also the nominators and stallion owners.
“We’re incredibly excited for CINCH to join us in the excitement surrounding the 2025 CINCH NRCHA Stallion Stakes,” shared NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “CINCH’s legacy in Western apparel and commitment to Western performance horses and riders makes the brand a natural fit for the NRCHA family of sponsors and our members.”
“CINCH values reined cow horse events because they highlight the skill,
BLUEBONNET JOINS NRCHA SPONSOR ROSTER
NRCHA welcomes Bluebonnet to its valued team of partners who support reined cow horses, their owners and breeders and NRCHA members.
“Bluebonnet is a natural partner for NRCHA because, like the association, we value a personal touch, the health and happiness of horses and community spirit,” said Bluebonnet President John Langemeier. “Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of working with many valued customers who are part of the NRCHA family, and our feed has fueled the success of past champions at premier events, from the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® to the Stallion Stakes. Bluebonnet has always been dedicated to empowering horse owners through the power of education and science-backed nutrition. We’re thrilled to bring our expertise to the NRCHA community and its equine athletes, supporting their ongoing success and well-being.”
versatility and athleticism of both horse and rider,” Nichols added. “These events demand precision, toughness and adaptability—qualities that align perfectly with CINCH’s apparel, built to perform in demanding environments. The sport also brings together a tight-knit, passionate community of competitors, trainers and fans, which CINCH is proud to support. From the intensity of fence work to the finesse of reining, these events embody the spirit of horsemanship, making them an ideal fit for CINCH’s values and products.”
To learn more about CINCH, shop their products and find retailers near you, visit cinchjeans.com
NRCHA and Bluebonnet are committed to horses’ longevity and ability to continue their athletic careers with the best support possible, from training to feeding.
“NRCHA is proud to continue its commitment to partnering with brands that share our values and dedication to our horses,” shared NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “With its wide range of offerings for horses of all life phases, we’re confident our members will find the perfect Bluebonnet feed for their cow horses.”
“Bluebonnet stands out in our category because of our unwavering commitment to quality, safety and transparency,” Langemeier continued.
“Our range of innovative feed formulas, unparalleled safety standards and research-driven supplements are designed to ensure superior nutrition for horses of all disciplines. Our facilities are not only horse-safe but 100% ionophore-free. Backed by in-house PhD equine nutritionists and unbiased research, we go above and beyond in our ingredient sourcing, ensuring every product is designed to unlock the potential of animals.”
LITTLE LUCILLE BECOMES NRCHA SPONSOR
NRCHA proudly announces that Little Lucille, a grassroots Western wear company, joins as a sponsor.
“NRCHA and Little Lucille share a deep appreciation for the strength, individuality and spirit of the modern cowgirl,” shared Kayce Liptak, owner and marketing manager of Little Lucille. “We respect the hard work and passion that go into the reined cow horse events and are proud to support and be part of an industry that celebrates horsemanship at its core.”
Little Lucille offers high-quality, handmade, luxury Western wear with a feminine touch. The brand focuses on creating stylish, functional pieces that reflect the bold spirit of the modern cowgirl, whether she’s competing in the arena or out in everyday life. The designs are thoughtfully handmade with attention to detail and quality, ensuring that each piece looks great and moves with the wearer. Little Lucille is committed to creating pieces that capture the essence of the modern cowgirl—confident, hardworking and unique.
“Partnering with an innovative yet authentic brand like Little Lucille perfectly aligns with NRCHA’s forward-looking view while paying respect to our roots,” shared NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “We’re excited to see our members in Little Lucille apparel in the arena working a cow.”
A shared commitment to horses and their well-being makes this partnership a natural fit.
Learn more about Bluebonnet, its offerings and opportunities to work with a nutritional consultant at bluebonnetfeeds.com
To learn more about Little Lucille and shop its products, visit littlelucille.ca For a complete list of NRCHA sponsors and to learn about partnership opportunities, visit nrcha.com/sponsors
FACES OF NRCHA
Maci Meads joins the NRCHA staff as Media Coordinator.
When your grandmother was one of the first women to graduate from California Polytechnic University and compete on the school’s rodeo team, you’re practically destined to be a cowgirl yourself. NRCHA Media Coordinator Maci Meads attributes her immersion in the Western lifestyle to her grandmother, who later became Miss Rodeo California, and to her father, an NRCHA competitor and roper on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s Columbia River Circuit.
“My dad is truly the reason I’m part of NRCHA,” Meads shared. “We lost him unexpectedly a year ago, but he was the best horseman I know, and he would be beyond excited to know I’m helping in the industry he was raised in.”
Meads joined NRCHA after earning a degree in agricultural communications from Texas Tech University. She completed many internships in the Western industry and worked as the media coordinator for NRCHA partner Ranch Fuel. Although she doesn’t currently compete, she’s happy to work behind the scenes at NRCHA events until she can return to the show pen.
RCHN: How did you learn about reined cow horse and NRCHA?
MM: I learned from my dad. My grandmother passed before I was born, and he’d always show me photos of them showing in the Oregon Reined Cow Horse Association. Once I moved to Texas for college, I made some close friends on the Texas Tech Ranch Horse Team and grew to love the reined cow horse industry even more.
RCHN: What excites you about working for the association?
MM: I’m thrilled to be surrounded by such incredible individuals who are not only deeply passionate about reined cow horse but also genuinely committed to advancing the industry’s growth and future. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some of the most sincere and dedicated people within the NRCHA community, and I’m excited to work with them to take the reined cow horse industry to new heights. I look forward to honoring its unique history and legacy while inspiring and encouraging the next generation of cow horse enthusiasts.
RCHN: What are you most looking forward to in 2025?
MM: Attending shows, meeting new faces within the industry and working with the association’s members to capture great event memories.
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.
•A LENA TIMES TWO 2024
•A SHINER NAMED SIOUX 2024
•A VINTAGE SMOKE 2024
•ALL THAT BOON 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•AMERICASNEXTCHANCE 2024
•ANNIES SMART CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•APOLLO CREED 2025, 2026
•ARA REBEL KING 2026
•ARC SPARKIN CHICS 2024
•ARMANI CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•ARRISTOCRAT NAPPIN 2024, 2025
•BADBOONARISING 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BADGERS SMART PEPPY 2024
•BAMA JELLY 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BAMACAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BAY BOON IN STYLE 2026
•BET HE SPARKS 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BET HES BLU 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030
•BET HESA BOON 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BET HESA CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BET HESA SHINER 2024, 2025
•BET YER A SMARTALLIC 2024
•BLEAU 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
•BLIND SIDED 2024
•BOB HES QUICK 2024, 2026
•BONAFIDE HUSTLER 2024
•BOON TOO SUEN 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BOONIFIED 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BOONS REFLECTIONS 2025
•BOWMANS GUN 2025
•BOWMANS METALLIC CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•BREYKIN BAD 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030
•BROTHER JACKSON 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CALL ME MITCH 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CANT KICK A PLAYBOY 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CARIBBEAN CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CAT FROM IPANEMA 2024
•CATALLIC 2024
•CATATOMIC 2024
•CATOLENA CASHIN IN 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CATS PAINTED ILLUSION 2024, 2025
•CATS PICASSO 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CATS ROYAL BOON 2024, 2025, 2026
•CATTALOU 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CATTY HAWK 2024
•CD DIAMOND 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CD DYNA CEE 2024, 2025
•CD HIGHLIGHTS 2024, 2025
•CD METALLIC 2026, 2027
•CEE MR HICKORY 2024
•CHECK YER METAL 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•COLOR PROOF 2024
•COOL GUITAR 2025
•COOL N HOT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•COUNTIN HOT CHECKS 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CR GOTCHA COVERED 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CR HES A TUFF ONE 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CR HIGHLIGHT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CRACKLIN KAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•CSR DUAL GLO 2024, 2025
•CT SHOW ME YOUR GUNS 2024
•DANDY CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DEEPER SHADE OF BLU 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DELTA HELLCAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DOC SEAS WHISKEY 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DONN JULIO 2024, 2025
•DONT STOPP BELIEVIN 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DUAL DELTA REY 2024
•DUAL EQUIS 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DUAL PEP 2024
•DUAL R SMOKIN 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DUAL REY 2024
•DUAL REYISH 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DUAL SMART REY 2024
•DUALIN BLU MOON 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
•DUALIN BOON 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•DYNAMITE DUNN IT 2026
•FARMER JONEZ 2024, 2025
•FIDDLE AND STEEL 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•FINALS BOUND 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•FLAMES WITH ROYALTY 2024
•FM COTTONWOOD 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•GENUINE MASTERPIECE 2024
•GOTTA GO GET IT 2024, 2025
•GRACEFUL SMART CAT 2024, 2025
•GUNNA BET MY BOON 2025
•GUNNABEBIGTIME 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•GUNNATRASHYA 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•GUNNER ON ICE 2024
•HA SHINE OAK SHINE 2024
•HAIL CAT 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HALF TIME REPORT 2024, 2025
•HASHKNIFE KING 2024
•HASHTAG BLUES 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
•HASHTAGS 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HAZARDOUZ MATERIAL 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HENDRIXX 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HERE COMES THE BOON 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HES WRIGHT ON 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HESA BLUHADI 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
•HESA DUAL BET 2024
•HEY BABE 2025
•HICALIBER CAT 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
•HICKORY HOLLY TIME 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HIGH BROW CAT 2024
•HIGH COST OF METAL 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HIRED GUN 2024
•HONKY TONK DREAMS 2024
•HOTT ROD 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HOTTISH 2024
•HOTTISH METAL 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•HQ HELLUVA CAT 2024, 2025
•IM COUNTIN CHECKS 2024
•ITS TIME TO SMOKUM 2024
•JANS REY CUATRO 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•JAYMES BOND 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•JOHNNYS LIL CASH 2025
•JUDGE BOON 2024
•KINKY BOOTZ 2025
•KIT KAT SUGAR 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•KR FANTALLICKA 2024
•KREYZY HORSE 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•LAST CALL FOR TEQUILA 2026
•LBR HANGEM 2025
•LEGAL N TWISTED 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•LONE WOOLF 2026
•MAGGIC MIKE 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028
•MAGICAL VOODOO 2024
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MEMBER ROUNDUP
Meet Our NRCHA Members
KNOW THE PRO: BRENDON CLARK
It’s all about the adrenaline and horse for this Australian cowboy.
BY MEGAN ARSZMAN | PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANNA KRAUSE/OUTCROSS MEDIA
Adrenaline can be addicting. Ask any NRCHA professional, and they’ll probably say it’s what helps them in the arena most days. But for Brendon Clark, adrenaline is in his DNA. It’s been a part of his life from the beginning.
Clark was born into a rugby family in Morpeth, New South Wales, Australia. Growing up, he played the gritty sport but didn’t want to make it his life. While his family didn’t have horses, his handyman father’s client had a ranch with cattle and horses, and that’s where Clark got his first taste of horsepower.
Clark started riding at the ranch with some of the cowboys who worked there, and they were into a mostly Australian sport called camp drafting and riding bucking horses and bulls at rodeos. Clark started riding horses when he was 6 years old and threw his leg over a calf when he was 8. He was learning to rope when he wasn’t working his way up to bucking bulls and horses. His desire to continually improve inspired him to learn about training horses, only to help his horse improve.
“I wasn’t interested in being a horse trainer at the time; I just wanted to learn how to make the horse better,” Clark said. “Growing up, all I wanted was to be a bull rider.”
In 2003, Clark moved to the United States and joined the Professional Bull Riders Tour. He was looking for a place to live, and fellow Australian PBR rider Troy Dunn introduced Clark to horseman Chris Cox.
“I ended up living with Chris for about 10 months before I could move to my own place,” he said.
While Cox hosted clinics at his ranch, Clark observed and absorbed a lot of information. He met many horse trainers, such as Johnny Mitchell and Sean Flynn.
“If I were smart enough, I would’ve spent more time with [Cox],” Clark said. “It would’ve made things much easier in my later life.”
For 10 years, Clark competed on the PBR circuit and roped alongside fellow bull riders and horse trainers during the week. After six concussions and a bad accident that sent him to the intensive care unit at the hospital for three days, you’d think that would be the end of his bull riding career. However, Clark remembered one of the main goals of his PBR career was to reach $1 million in earnings on the circuit.
“I was too hard-headed to go away like that,” he said. “I don’t know if I can say what inspired me to pull through. It was a hard period of my career because [getting back on a bull] was somewhat scary. But I’m just made a little differently. I got a couple of good rides under my belt,
Top: Brendon Clark is in his second career, training horses alongside his wife of two years, Lizzy, from their Hollister, California, ranch.
Right: Clark competes in Fort Worth, Texas, aboard Nitro Nicholas, owned by Red Arrow Ranch.
and I got my confidence back. In the background, you hear people talking like you’re done and don’t have the ability anymore, and looking at my horse-training career, I guess that’s what’s helping me be successful now. I didn’t want to go out like that.”
He retired from bull riding in 2013 after accomplishing his career earnings goal. He had a nagging hand injury and knew it was time to move on. After considering a career as a chiropractor, he decided to put into practice what he had learned from an old roommate for his next career.
“I had fun and enjoyed [bull riding],” he said. “I took from what I learned about training horses from Chris Cox and others, and I knew that people needed horses to be ridden. People knew who I was from the PBR, so I had a name. Basically, every horse I got either bucked somebody off or had been to three or four trainers and none of them could work it, so the owner would send it to me. I’d work with the horse and get it to where it was ridable and gentle so someone could work with it.”
Now in his second career, Clark trains horses with his wife of two years, Lizzy, at their ranch in Hollister, California. He credits all the trainers he’s met along the way with helping him continue learning and succeeding in and out of the arena. However, he’s most grateful for the horses who learned to trust him.
Reined Cow Horse News: What do you look for in a reined cow horse prospect?
Brendon Clark: I learned this from Hayden Upton, who instilled in me that you win or lose the day you buy the horse. He taught me to take notice of what the good horses look like. I studied how the best horses moved, looked and acted in and out of the arena. If a horse catches your eye as a competitor or spectator, there’s a good chance it’ll also stand out to the judges.
I bought the first horses without trying them. I bought them because I loved how they looked, how they moved and their breeding. Then, as time has passed, I’ve tried to continue perfecting my eye for a good horse. I do feel like breeding is a big thing. I get along with a lot of different pedigrees and have had success with each one.
I believe shape, movement and a horse’s mind are more important than their blacktype pedigree.
RCHN: Explain your connection with the horses you ride
BC: My wife and I have great customers and great horses. At the end of the day, it’s fun to be around each one and watch them change. I never take for granted what the horses do for me. Whether I’m having a bad or great day, they’re always part of it, and I’m grateful for them. I feel like I’ve achieved a lot in a short period by doing a lot of hard work, asking a lot of questions and learning a lot—just being a student of the game. I’m not afraid to make mistakes, and I’m not afraid to go out and try a few things. I’m never afraid to learn, so I always try to make each horse I have the best it can be.
I went through a period where I wasn’t in a good place, and the horses pulled me through. My wife and I are lucky to do what we love daily. We prioritize the horses in our program over almost ever ything else. From how they are fed, handled, cared for and trained, we oversee every detail and hold ourselves to the highest standard each day to ensure that no detail is overlooked so we can do the best we can by our horses. It’s honestly nice to know that other people can see that because I don’t necessarily think about it every day—it’s just what we do. It’s a bit of a running joke in the barn about how nice we are and how spoiled our horses are, and that’s the truth—they’re spoiled. When we walk in the barn, we want [the horses] to like us. It’s hard—sometimes they make mistakes, and sometimes we make mistakes. They cover for us, and sometimes we cover for them, and that’s cool.
RCHN: Do you feel there’s a connection to your experience as a bull rider and now as a trainer?
BC: Bull riding and training cow horses are very similar. There’s unpredictability because you’re trying to train an animal to outsmart another animal and be able to control that animal. Riding bulls, you’re trying to control what you’re doing on the back of a bull for eight seconds. But the biggest
AQthing I got out of bull riding that has rolled into horse training is that you lose a lot at that [high] level. You get bucked off a lot and don’t always win, so you must learn to be OK with losing, as long as you learn from how you lost and then move forward to fix it and be better the next time.
The mind is an amazing thing, and you can talk yourself into a lot of things. The hard work and dedication came from my background in bull riding. They’re both industries where you have a lot of ups and downs, and the downs are horrible and not fun, and the wins are a lot of fun. But they don’t last long—once you win one, you expect to win again, and it’s not always that attainable. And the biggest thing is the danger of the sport. Many people—from non pro to open [riders]—struggle with— the fear of the speed and the danger going down the fence. [An accident] isn’t easy for anybody to overcome mentally, but I think what helped me [get over the fear] comes from bull riding.
With NRCHA Pro Brendon Clark
$298,000
2025 BREEDING FEE: $2500 + CHUTE FEE | 7 PANEL N/N OWNED BY: K & L PHILLIPS | TRAINED BY: CLAYTON EDSALL
NOTABLE NON PRO
Kimberlee Gabel wanted to improve her horsemanship, striving to reach what she views as the pinnacle of competition— NRCHA events.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON
Like many NRCHA non pros, Kimberlee Gabel of Fort Lupton, Colorado, has spent most of her life horseback. She enjoyed her horse life, roping with her husband and sons, but she wanted more. Her desire to improve her horsemanship pushed her out of her comfort zone in the roping pen and into the show pen.
“I began in the show pen and progressed up through the competition levels,” she recalled. “My end goal was always NRCHA events. I think my first NRCHA show was around 2017.”
Just six years later, she and Metallic Maverick (Metallic Cat x Widows May Play x Widows Freckles) earned the North Central Intermediate Non Pro Boxing Regional Championship and finished runner-up Non Pro Boxing Regional in 2024. “Jett” continues to be her main mount, and she keeps him at home and does most of the training herself.
“I don’t have a full-time trainer,” she shared. “I do get coaching and instruction from Darren Miller, who lives in Texas now. Living eight hours away, Darren is constantly available to visit or review videos. He tunes us up at shows and gives me ‘homework’ to hone our show skills between shows. He’s a great horseman who can come at it from all perspectives.”
FINDING THE HORSE
Making such great strides in a short amount of time requires the right partner, and Gabel found hers in Jett.
“We were at a Colorado Reined Cow Horse Association show in Montrose,” she said. “Being friends with some of the trainers, we asked one of them if they had anything up and coming. It happened that Jett’s owner at the time wanted to sell a couple. We watched Jeff Veitch show Jett and my husband said, ‘We’ve gotta make this happen!’”
With Jett in her barn, Gabel has learned from her horse and achieved more than she ever thought possible.
Kimberlee Gabel found the cow horse of her dreams in Metallic Maverick (Metallic Cat x Widows May Play x Widows Freckles).
HALEY SUE MEDIA
“Jett has been such a blessing; he’s taught me so much,” she said. “To go from an open futurity horse to a beginner non pro horse and then grow with me to where I am today, he’s amazing.”
CAPITALIZING ON BOXING
Gabel had a wreck with a mare that left her pretty banged up and her confidence rattled. The boxing and box drive classes are perfect for her riding goals and allow her to compete at a high level without pushing past her comfort zone.
“Being in a kind of freak accident like that, I don’t really have interest in showing down the fence,” she shared. “The boxing and box drive let me keep showing. Jett really excels in those classes. He’s so honest and has a lot of style on a cow.”
Gabel admitted that the reined portion of her events has challenged her, but she’s proud to have improved and become more consistent in that area. Reliable reined work usually sets usually sets the stage for a solid overall score.
“Getting through the reined work and consistently marking a 72 or 73 is something I’m really proud of,” she said. “It’s been a bit of a struggle for me. I had to learn to think ahead of my horse and get in front of him to show him successfully. I’ve learned to slow down my mind and body and be present in those runs, and it really helps.”
GIVING BACK
Many competitors focus squarely on their own opportunities to show their horses. But since 2007, Gabel has given back to the horse-show community with Slidin Daze Enterprises, a ranch horse show circuit she owns with her husband, Ron Grinstead. The events are in Colorado, Nebraska and Wyoming and include American Quarter Horse Association versatility, cutting, working cow horse/box drive/boxing, ranch riding, ranch trail, open herd work and open stock horse classes. Gabel sees this work as a way to give back and help riders achieve their goals and advance their horsemanship, just as she did.
“I truly love the equine world, and what we do gives back very little compared to what we’ve been given,” she said with gratitude. “We’ve been at this 18 years, and they’re some of the largest AQHA ranch horse shows in our region. We offer a place for people who want to get started showing and see their progression so they can eventually graduate to NRCHA shows, should they choose. The shows allow us to provide opportunities for people in our region, and they’ve been very good to us.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Gabel looks forward to showing Jett for a long time, in everything from her NRCHA classes to AQHA versatility events. She has qualified for and plans to show at the AQHA World Show. But she fully intends to keep challenging herself in the reined cow horse events.
“NRCHA is the pinnacle,” she said. “If you can compete there, you’re getting something done! The community is so good—the way people cheer you on and celebrate your successes like they’ve succeeded, it’s like nothing else. You get out of it what you put in, and it’s at a level that’s different than any other organization I’ve shown with.”
Watch for Gabel and Jett—and potentially another limited-age horse—in the 2026 NRCHA Premier Events.
Gabel and “Jett” also compete in AQHA versatility ranch horse events, which Gabel feels help keep her horse quiet and responsive.
JEFF KIRKBRIDE
Thank You!
TO ALL THE MARE OWNERS FOR MAKING THE 2025 BREEDING SEASON A SUCCESS
ADMIRABLE ASSISTANT: DANIEL SANCHEZ
Daniel Sanchez’s adaptability, consistency, talent and work ethic are among the traits that establish him as a worthy contender in the reined cow horse arena.
BY JADE CURRID
Daniel Sanchez credits his upbringing in San Jaun Bautista, California, along with the fortune of being surrounded by exemplary horsemen, for instilling a fervent, lifelong drive and passion for pursuing a career with horses.
During his formative years, he earnestly absorbed as much knowledge and experience as possible from his father, José Sanchez, who worked for Wright Performance Horses, owned by Walter and Sharon Wright, the parents of NRCHA Three Million Dollar Rider Justin Wright.
“He’d clean stalls in the mornings, and then he’d go help start colts, whether it was Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, off-the-track horses or problem horses,” Sanchez said of his father. “It was another horse to ride; another horse to train. I think my first horse was a half-Arab, half- running Quarter Horse that my dad had bred. He had a running Quarter Horse stud; he bred it, and that was my riding horse.”
Sanchez expressed gratitude that his father consistently supplied him with a horse that he had to learn to train himself. While these horses were not the fanciest, the elder Sanchez always kept him mounted.
“He definitely set the pathway for me to keep going in the cow horse industry,” Sanchez shared. “He always told me to understand that training horses isn’t the most ideal job, but that if I love riding and training horses, just to keep going. One of the most important things he always told me was not to let the world’s doors close on me, and that there’s always a door that needs to be opened and not to be afraid of opening it, because it might reveal what I’m seeking.”
EARLY MENTORS
Sanchez acknowledges the influential role that Justin Wright has played in molding his life’s path from the
start. He said he had the opportunity to watch Wright progress in the NRCHA from when the horseman began entering the youth cow horse events until he advanced to the open division.
“At a very early age, I had an idea of what I wanted to do, especially watching Justin,” Sanchez revealed. “I grew up looking up to him for sure.”
As a 17-year-old high school graduate, Sanchez embarked on his next chapter working for more than two years with California-based reining trainer and National Reined Horse Association judge Gabe Davide of GD Performance Horses. In 2015, Sanchez began working for NRCHA Million Dollar Jake Gorrell in Hanford, California.
“Jake was unbelievable to work for and super talented,” Sanchez said of his former boss.
After a year of training under Gorrell’s tutelage, Sanchez returned to work with his mentor and friend, Justin Wright, for a three-year stint.
In 2018, Sanchez won the NRCHA Open Bridle World Championship on Earthly Riches (Tulare x Cmon Tell Us x King Fritz Two), owned by Donna Russo, whom he also credits as an influential person in his cow horse career.
“I piddled around and showed him mostly in the limited open bridle,” Sanchez revealed. “After showing him in the limited for a year, everyone kept telling me I needed to start entering the open bridle, and I did. I came down to [the Celebration of Champions] in Fort Worth, Texas, and made the finals. I think I made it in the last hole. I snuck into the finals, and it was just fun.”
Sanchez shared that Earthly Riches is one of his alltime favorite horses. The horse’s tremendous heart made
Daniel Sanchez turns a cow on Reyny Day Nickle (Shiners Nickle x Tootsie Rey x Dual Rey), owned by Donna Russo, during the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Bridle Preliminaries.
him realize that one doesn’t always need a top-bred horse to attain success.
MOVE TO TEXAS
Near the end of 2018, Sanchez made a pivotal move to Texas and worked for three years with National Cutting Horse Association Hall of Fame member and NCHA Four Million Dollar Rider Matt Miller. Although his program strictly focuses on cutting, Miller allowed Sanchez to compete in reined cow horse events.
Sanchez experienced colossal success again in 2020 when he piloted Reyny Day Nickle (Shiners Nickle x Tootsie Rey x Dual Rey), owned by Donna Russo, to win two major events: the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Limited Open and the NRCHA Derby Limited Open.
Sanchez is currently an assistant trainer for his father-in-law, NRCHA President Boyd Rice. Rice is also an NRCHA Million-Dollar Rider and NCHA multimillion-dollar earner.
“He’s a full-contact kind of guy, and he loves going fast and training horses,” Sanchez shared. “I think what pulled me to work for him, besides him being my fatherin-law, is that he doesn’t care what kind of horse he’s given to train. He knows our job is to train horses, and he’ll train whatever horse they bring us. He’s an unbelievable horse trainer, so every day I watch him and learn so much from him. He has so much feel, talent and knowledge of it all that it’s special.”
Rice lauds Sanchez for his diligence and remarkable work ethic and ability.
“He’s great with the 2-year-olds and doing an exceptional job, overall,” Rice shared. “Daniel is a horse-showing machine, too. He’s here early in the mornings and stays late. He’s starting a lot of colts, and he has an opportunity to ride many more horses than he’s probably ever ridden. We have great hopes for him, and this just takes time.”
Rice shared that within only a month, Sanchez had started 20 to 25 colts, and he may have 15 more colts added to his string.
Sanchez credits his brother-in-law, NCHA Hall of Fame member Tatum Rice, as one of his mentors. He helped him prepare the colts he started for a successful career.
“I’ve been very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Tatum,” Sanchez said. “He’s helped me a ton starting colts and has shown me that I can take my time with them and that they can learn so much if you go slow and show them what you want.”
Sanchez expressed that while he believes most reined cow horse trainers share common goals, such as winning the NRCHA’s Snaffle Bit Futurity® and World’s Greatest Horseman® titles, it’s important to him as an
assistant trainer to temporarily set aside his personal goals and focus on supporting his employer’s goals.
“Boyd wants to hit the $2-million-dollar mark, so right now one of my goals is to try to help him achieve that, whether it’s staying home and working 2-year-olds so they’re ready for him when he’s ready to show them, or whatever it takes,” Sanchez related.
ADVICE TO ASSISTANTS
According to Sanchez, aspiring reined cow horse trainers shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions and embrace input.
“I think we all kind of become caught up in how we want a certain thing to feel or a horse to feel, or that we all want to have our own style,” Sanchez revealed. “Sometimes, we must step back on what we want and see what others see. Another set of eyes is always helpful.”
He particularly emphasized the importance of not being late. Because timing is paramount, his words of wisdom, “Do not be late,” may be applied to many aspects of horsemanship. When it comes to cultivating a legacy in the reined cow horse industry, Sanchez is right on time.
Above: Daniel Sanchez works a cow down the fence on Last Dance With Mary Jane (Reyz in The Cash x Jane Says x High Brow Cat), owned by Abrian and Perry Bass, at the 2024 NRCHA Kimes Ranch Western Derby.
Left: Daniel Sanchez and his wife, Trea, and their daughter, Rosie, share a joyful moment.
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FTheir Own BLAZING TRAIL
Bonds Ranch’s focus on versatility and usability gives its horses unique advantages.
BY HANNAH CLAXTON
or nearly a century, the Bonds Ranch has been synonymous with quality in the equine world. Founded in 1933, the ranch has earned a reputation for breeding quality horses, a legacy that spans over five decades. The Bonds’ unwavering commitment to innovative strategies has led to recent successes that underscore the effectiveness of their approach, proving that tradition and progress can go hand in hand.
“Our mission for the horse program is to breed and raise horses that our people want to ride,” said April Bonds, one of the third-generation members of the Bonds family. “We want these horses to allow anyone to go do the job they need to do.”
LEAVING THE RANCH TO FIND THE FUTURE
Bonds’ early career took her off the ranch. A 2006 graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in agribusiness and certificates in international trade and agriculture and international business, Bonds went on to Georgetown University to complete her master’s in business administration before settling in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, to work as a wedding planner.
“I grew up on the ranch but went away for a while, until somehow traveling the world brought me right back to the ranch,” explained Bonds.
Bonds returned to the ranch to become the operations and market strategist, and with that came the responsibility of managing the horse program.
“I used my business education to put together a proposal on how we could make the horse program the kind of program we wanted it to be,” said Bonds. The approach was threefold: bring in new genetics, add black-type producing mares to the herd and aim for a versatile horse.
April
represents the
Bonds
third generation to take the reins at Bonds Ranch. She’s shown here with stallion Jaymes Bond (Metallic Cat x Shortys Jay Ray x Dual Rey).
THE BONDS RANCH CODE
For the Bonds Ranch’s out-of-the-box thinking to succeed, there’s a unique code of conduct for members of the ranch. April Bonds breaks it down to five principles:
1. Know how to talk to who you’re talking to.
2. If you make a mistake, just own up to it.
3. Know who can give you the answers you don’t have.
4. It’s okay not to be an expert in one thing and to be really good at a lot of things, as long as you know experts who can fill in the gaps.
5. Who you really are is your most valuable contribution to the operation.
“We wanted a ranch horse we could take to town and a town horse—a show horse—that we could use on the ranch,” explained Bonds.
When Bonds began her plan, the ranch was foaling five to 10 mares yearly, with only a few horses succeeding in the show pen. Now, less than 10 years later, the ranch is foaling more than 40 mares a year. Recently, Bonds Ranch horse Jaymes Bond claimed the 2024 Open Two Rein National Championship.
DUAL-PATH TRAINING
To achieve her goal of horses that can lead double lives as ranch horses and show horses, all foals born to Bonds Ranch spend time outside as young horses, and the majority of them, regardless of their intended purpose, are also used for work on the ranch.
“I think this is great for all horses,” said Jordan Williams, the NRCHA professional who trains and competes aboard most Bonds Ranch horses. “Regardless of your discipline, working on a ranch teaches these
horses to be able to work through any challenge they’re presented with.”
While the Bonds Ranch foals are still on the mare, they’re kept in the pasture. Once weaned, they’re sorted into social groups to live in the most rugged pastures of the ranch. Before Williams gets these horses for formal training, they know how to cross water, travel in different terrain and cover difficult country.
“A horse is a horse,” Williams said. “They’re not just a tool, and it’s best for horses to be horses.”
With the horse sale prices at an all-time high, it might seem counterintuitive or borderline reckless to use valuable horses on the ranch, where the risks are so unpredictable. For Bonds and Williams, however, the rewards outweigh the risks. An overprotected horse never develops self-awareness, and a horse that lacks self-awareness will struggle to track and turn a cow.
“We had a learning process regarding seeing how far we could push things safely,” Bonds shared. “We want these horses to
NRCHA professional Jordan Williams isn’t afraid to put the show horses to work for brandings or other jobs on the ranch.
APRIL BONDS
“I
like the nutritional benefits Platinum affords my show horses and the fact that every horse in the barn loves it.”
CHRIS
DAWSON
This 2024 NRCHA Open Snaffle Bit Futurity Champion recognizes the power of nutrition. He’s been a Platinum client since 2012.
Chris Uses: Platinum Performance® Equine, Platinum Performance® GI and Healthy Weight.
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be protected enough that they have longevity, but free enough to learn for themselves and be horses.”
To teach these lessons, Williams starts young horses on an achievable yet difficult path. When working on the ranch, he picks a pasture with built-in fail-safes to aid in moving cattle while still taking the longest route. This delicate balance determines the horses’ maximum capacity while ensuring their future soundness.
“I’m a firm believer that the mares raise them to know where their feet are naturally,” Williams said. “They learn that travelling the pastures; there’s no need to overprotect them.”
EARNING A NATIONAL TITLE
Raising horses this way has had huge rewards for Bonds Ranch. As they watched homegrown stallion Jaymes Bond (Metallic Cat x Shortys Jay Ray x Dual Rey) become the NRCHA 2024 Open Two Rein National
Champion, Bonds and Williams knew their method was sound.
“It was a great honor to win the title on him,” Bonds said. “It’s great to feel like you’re showcasing all that an animal is, and it’s been a long time coming.”
“Jaymes” was raised in one of the rough pastures on the ranch, something many people would find too risky due to the caliber of his breeding.
“The pasture he was in has a lot of mesquite; it’s rocky in places and gets very wet,” Bonds explained. “There were times when he’d pull mud up to his hocks, it was so rugged out there, but that meant he went to Jordan [Williams] knowing where his feet were.”
A few days after securing the National Championship, Williams rode Jaymes to brand cattle at Bonds Ranch, using him like any other ranch horse.
“Jaymes looked bored at the branding,” Williams said with a laugh. “He’s done so
much that nothing bothers him. He’s been seasoned in a manner that we don’t have to go to a show and worry about how he’s going to react to things because he’s learned to respond to things outside of the mechanical environment we create in the arena.”
FORGING THE FUTURE
Bonds Ranch has made a name for itself from a simple goal that originated from a desire to breed horses their cowboys wanted to ride.
“We wanted our cowboys to be mounted well enough to where they wanted to go to town, whether it be ranch rodeos, ropings, sortings or ranch horse competitions,” Bonds said. “We’re just eight years into our 10-year plan, and we’ve achieved nearly everything on it already.”
Ultimately, the ranch’s success isn’t just about accolades—it’s about the unique methods they’ve carefully developed and honed
to ensure the best representation of the reined cow horse.
“I’m obviously a bit biased, but I believe that if you look at the reined cow horse, the finished product is the most versatile animal in all disciplines,” Williams said. “Taking these horses to the ranch only adds to that.”
They’ve carved their own distinct path by thinking outside the box and embracing old-school wisdom and modern strategies. The Bonds Ranch story is a testament to the power of trusting the process, taking calculated risks and never losing sight of the bigger picture. As their horse program continues to thrive and set bigger goals each year, it serves as a reminder that success is ultimately about forging your own way and having the courage to stick with it, even when the road is less traveled.
Williams and Jaymes Bond claimed the 2024 Open Two Rein National Championship, a testament to the ranch’s training philosophy and commitment to its horses.
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WHERE IT ALL
A successful horse’s career begins before the animal even hits the ground, when the breeder carefully chooses a pairing to create a champion.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON
As a horse builds its career in the show pen, we readily name its trainers and exhibitors, sire and dam. But that horse’s success wouldn’t be possible without the breeder who made insightful decisions— and even took calculated risks—when choosing a sire and dam to cross to produce that winning horse.
For the first time ever, NRCHA recognized its Million Dollar Breeders during a special Million Dollar Milestones reception, presented by Holy Cow Performance Horses. Held during the NRCHA Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions at the River Ranch Stockyards, the gathering saw some of the most influential members of NRCHA convene to celebrate their accomplishments in producing exceptional reined cow horses.
CAROL ROSE
It’s impossible to think about Western performance horses without considering NRCHA Hall of Fame member Carol Rose. The Gainesville, Texas, horsewoman has dedicated her life to breeding, raising, owning, showing and promoting some of the best reined cow horses in the association’s history, leading her to become an NRCHA Three Million Dollar Breeder. Rose has had many winning combinations, the ultimate jackpot being when she crossed Genuine Doc with Diamond Sparkle to produce NRCHA Four Million Dollar Sire and Hall of Fame member Shining Spark. Her top earners today include CD Dee Vee Dee, with more than $280,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Blind Sided, with more than $200,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Shine Like Hail, with more than $114,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
WAGONHOUND LAND AND LIVESTOCK
The focus of the Douglas, Wyoming, Wagonhound Land and Livestock’s breeding program might be raising high-quality ranch horses for its cowboys and the public, but its proven producers go far beyond athletic, gritty using horses. The royal bloodlines owned by Wagonhound Land and Livestock routinely create champion reined cow horses, as well as those for cutting, reining and ranch competitions, leading the ranch to officially be named an NRCHA Two Million Dollar Breeder. Even after his passing in 2022, WR This Cats Smart continues to show up on the bloodlines of winners, from aged events to horse show classes. Horses the ranch bred that top the ranch’s earnings list include Cabanna Boy, with more than $190,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; This Cats The Mark, with more than $166,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Shiners Diamond Cat, with nearly $150,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
SAN JUAN RANCH
It’s not easy to stand out in Weatherford, Texas, aka “Horse Country, USA,” but San Juan Ranch does that by being one of only two NRCHA Three Million Dollar Breeders in that North Texas hotbed of horseflesh. Their outstanding breeding stock includes 2012 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion CD Diamond, 2018 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion SJR Diamon Mist and 2024 The American Performance Horseman Reined Cow Horse Champion SJR Talkin Diamonds. On top of that, San Juan Ranch proudly owns Shiners Diamond Girl, a dam of earners of more than $700,000.
As a show of commitment to breeding the best, San Juan Ranch annually enrolls its stock in a variety of incentives, including the NRCHA Cow Horse Incentive, and offers its own open and non pro San Juan Ranch Futurity Incentive.
PHOTOS
WARD RANCH
The histories of NRCHA and its California roots are forever connected to the Ward Ranch, from patriarch Greg Ward to his son John, who are both members of the NRCHA Hall of Fame. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that Ward Ranch joins the list of NRCHA Two Million Dollar Breeders, racking up the checks one dollar at a time. Many of the ranch’s standout cow horses trace back to Master Remedy, sire of three NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champions. Dave and Vicky Costello accepted the award on behalf of Ward Ranch.
Top performers bred by Ward Ranch include Reminics Pep, with more than $128,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Gotta Go Get It, with more than $77,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Miss Plain Plain, with more than $70,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
GARTH AND AMANDA GARDINER
It’s undeniable that Garth and Amanda Gardiner have experienced extreme success breeding reined cow horses. The top three competitors they produced account for more than 25% of the earnings that led them to become NRCHA Two Million Dollar Breeders. Cow horses they produce routinely make the finals and the winner’s circle at every NRCHA premier event in both open and non pro competition. Of the 106 competing cow horses they’ve produced, 84 are NRCHA money-earners.
Topping the Gardiners’ list of reined cow horses they’ve produced in terms of earnings are Bet He Sparks, with more than $278,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Jule Smart Rey, with more than $189,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Time For The Diamond, with more than $173,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
HOLY COW PERFORMANCE HORSES
The mare power of Holy Cow Performance horses is undeniable when it comes to the ranch being named NRCHA Million Dollar Breeders. From Sheza Shinette, an NRCHA $750,000 dam, to Sheza Dancing Diamond, dam of 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champion Life By The Drop, and many more, the mares have a huge influence on the ranch’s success as producers of reined cow horses.
Top performers bred by Holy Cow Performance Horses include Life By The Drop, with more than $221,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Reyzinette, with more than $207,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Hes Shinettes CD, with more than $181,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
CENTER RANCH
Center Ranch’s roots trace back to father-son duo Finis and Sam Welch, but it went well beyond a modest endeavor of an economist father wanting to connect with his horse-loving son. In 2008, the ranch purchased Woody Be Tuff, an NRCHA Two Million Dollar sire now owned by Solo Select/Kaleb Terlip. Boyd Rice accepted the award on behalf of the now-dispersed Center Ranch.
Top performers bred by Center Ranch include Zak 34, with nearly $270,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; CR Hesa Tuff One, with more than $172,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and CR Tuffles N Lace, with more than $134,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
PHOTOS
OWNED BY BURNETT RANCHES, LLC
JOYCE PEARSON
Apples don’t fall far from the tree, as evident by Joyce Pearson joining her daughter Anne Reynolds as an NRCHA Million Dollar Breeder. Of the horses she’s bred, 73 have been shown in NRCHA competition, and 58 are NRCHA money-earners, a 79% average of pulling checks at reined cow horse events, including titles at multiple premier events. Reynolds accepted the award on her mother’s behalf.
Pearson’s top performers she’s bred include Gunna Be A Smartie, with more than $164,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Magical Lena, with more than $152,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Dr Strangelove, with more than $104,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
ANNE M. REYNOLDS
She’s probably best known as an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider, Hall of Famer and formidable competitor, but Anne Reynolds also pushes herself as a breeder of cow horses. A winner of every NRCHA premier event, Reynolds also bred, raised and trained many of those mounts that took her to the top, as well as selling much of her produce for open and non pro competition, including Smart Luck, 2010 NRCHA Open Derby Champion, and Very Shiney, Reynolds’ 2011 NRCHA Hackamore Non Pro Champion mount.
Top performers bred by Reynolds include Smart Luck, with NRCHA lifetime earnings of more than $190,000; Very Shiney, with NRCHA lifetime earnings of more than $126,000; and Legendary Colonel, with NRCHA lifetime earnings of more than $117,000.
ARCESE QUARTER HORSES USA
The Arcese name is well-known in Western performance events. Their commitment to breeding topnotch stock has led Arcese Quarter Horses USA to join the ranks as an NRCHA Million Dollar Breeder. Much of the Arceses’ success in the breeding business comes from the mare side, owning notable dams such as Hickorys Holly Cee and Sailing Spark. Jeff Oswood accepted the award on behalf of Arcese Quarter Horses USA.
Top NRCHA earners bred by the Arceses include Rubys Radar, with more than $284,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Hickory Holly Time, with more than $217,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and ARC Sparkin Chics, with more than $156,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
JAMES L. EAKIN
KIT AND CHARLIE MONCRIEF
The Moncriefs are well-known for their philanthropy and hold many honors in Fort Worth and the larger Texas community. However, their commitment to breeding exceptional cow horses led them to become NRCHA Million-Dollar Breeders, including Mr Playinstylish and Royal Fletch.
The Moncriefs’ breeding program has produced top NRCHA earners, including My Stylish Cat, with more than $126,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Mr Comin In Hot, with more than $107,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Fabulous Fletch, with more than $106,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
James Eakin is most connected to National Cutting Horse Association circles. Yet, with a single cross, he made a huge splash in the NRCHA history books and was rocketed onto the NRCHA Million Dollar Breeders list. That horse, Call Me Mitch, was ridden by Phillip Ralls to the 2023 NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman® title. Debbie Roberts accepted the award for Eakin.
The top earners from Eakin’s breeding program include Call Me Mitch, with more than $446,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; Bet Lucky 13, with more than $67,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings; and Hez The Kats Meow, with more than $53,000 in NRCHA lifetime earnings.
PHOTOS
to win the 2025 NRCHA World’s Greatest
the first woman to accomplish the feat. Her 884.5 (H: 219/R: 221.5/S: 223.5/C: 220.5) earned $150,000 for owner Linda
Erin Taormino rode Hazardouz Material
Horseman®,
Mars.
MINDSET MAKES A WINNER
Erin Taormino and Hazardouz Material further proved that they’re a real threat by winning the 2025 Western Bloodstock Ray Shell Ranch NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman®.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
I’s no secret: Erin Taormino’s mindset plays a major role in her success as an NRCHA open-level competitor. From the time she wrote “I can and I will” on her arm when she competed in the 2016 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Finals—placing second and earning a crazy-high score of 228 down the fence—right up until the 2025 Western Bloodstock Ray Shell Ranch NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman®, her true competitor spirit anchors her and sets her on paths to achieve goals she only dreamed could come true. In this case, it again paid exceptional dividends when she claimed the 2025 World’s Greatest Horseman® title, along with $150,000 to add to her Million Dollar Rider status, aboard longtime partner Hazardouz Material.
“In my mind, going into this show, I had to take it step by step,” she shared a couple days after her monumental achievement started to sink in. “We started the whole show with the World’s Greatest Horseman® herd work prelims—that’s crazy! Usually, we have a little time to settle in and do a derby class. I told myself, ‘Don’t get ahead of yourself. Get through each set. Set small goals, make small accomplishments in each phase and then get to the finals.’ It’s not an easy event to win. It’s absolutely a dream come true.”
THE KEYS TO SUCCESS
Taormino gives credence to the theory that you are the average of the five people with whom you spend the most time. She credits her support system with keeping her head on straight throughout the
TOP 15 WORLD’S GREATEST HORSEMAN®
(Rider/ Horse/Pedigree/Owner/Composite Score/Money)
1. Erin Taormino; Hazardouz Material; 2016S; (Metallic Cat x Scooters Daisy Dukes x Dual Smart Rey); Linda A. Mars; 884.5 (H: 219/R: 221.5/SS: 223.5/C: 220.5); $150,000
2. Todd Crawford; One Time Legend; 2015G; (One Time Pepto x HR Playin Legend x Little Lenas Legend); Larry Hall Cutting Horses LLC; 880 (H: 215.5/R: 220.5/SS: 224/C: 220); $75,000
3. Shane L. Steffen; Sprinkld Confetticat; 2015M; WR This Cats Smart x PPH Especial Nitro x Nitro Dual Doc; South Cove Ranch LLC; 876 (H: 217.5/R: 214/SS: 224/C: 220); $45,000
4. Justin T. Wright; Purrn Likeasmoothcat; 2013S; Smooth As A Cat x Purr N Like Magic x Abrakadabracre; Ascencion Banuelos; 866.5 (H: 220/R: 210/SS: 218.5/C: 216); $25,000
5. Brady E. Weaver; SJR Reygun; 2012M; Dual Rey x Playguns King Badger x Little Mo Peppy; Gary Ewell; 865.5 (H: 214.5/R: 219/ SS: 219/C: 213); $17,500
6. Jay McLaughlin; Gotittogive; Dual Rey x Dark And Sultry x Spots Hot; Jay and Wendy McLaughlin; 858 (H: 198/R: 218.5/SS: 221/C: 220.5); $14,500
7. Corey D. Cushing; WR Iceman; 2018S; WR This Cats Smart x Lean Irish Playgirl x Paddys Irish Whiskey; Eric and Wendy Dunn; 857.5 (H: 216.5/R: 208.5/SS: 220/C: 212.5); $10,000
8. Gusti W. Buerger; Physicality; 2016G; Magicality x Shirley Shine x Shining Spark; Home Ranch Perf Horses LLC; 853.5 (H: 213/R: 217.5/SS: 216.5/C: 206.5); $8,500
9. Wade Meador; Metallic Action; 2018M; One Time Royalty x Moria Metallica x Metallic Cat; Clyde Metzler; 846 (H: 215.5/R: 215.5/SS: 220/C: 195); $8,000
10. Clay Volmer; Ricato Suave; 2017S; Metallic Cat x Hip Hip Sue Rey x Dual Rey; Shaleah Hester and M. Fountain; 845 (H: 220; R: 212/SS: 197; C: 214); $7,500
11. Boyd J. Rice; My Boots Are Royal; 2018S; Royal Fletch x My Boots Are Tuff x Woody Be Tuff; Moncrief Quarter Horses LLC; 844.5 (H: 219/R: 215.5/SS: 197.5/C: 212.5); $7,000
12. Dale E. Clearwater; Hay Sweet Freya; 2016M; Hay Maker x Shessweetern Pepto x Peptoboonsmal; Tracy Brand; 842.5 (H: 218.5/R: 214/SS: 197.5/C: 212.5); $7,000
13. Shawn Hays; Sir Stylish One; 2015G; One Time Pepto x Most Stylish Mom x Docs Stylish Oak; Timothy E. Drummond; 827 (H: 214/R: 194.5/SS: 217/C: 201.5); $7,000
14. Abbie Phillips; Peptos Stylin Time; 2015S; One Time Pepto x Stylin Jewel x Docs Stylish Oak; Kelby and Abbie Phillips; 666.5 (H: 225/R: 218/SS: 0/C: 223.5); $7,000
15. Randy J. Paul; Lenaliltothewright; 2007G; Lenas Wright On x Shining Survivor x Shining Spark; 663 (H; 219.5/R: 223/SS: 0/C: 220.5); $7,000
marathon World’s Greatest Horseman® competitors face.
“I’m not gonna lie—I’m surrounded by a great group of people, from trainers who are best friends to my husband [Anthony] who is so supportive to the girls who work for me,” she said. “My mindset is definitely a combination of the people around me right now. They help me believe in my program and remind me that I’ve done all I can. Now I just have to trust the process, trust my horse and know I’ve done my job. You can’t force any of this to happen; you have to let it happen.”
Speaking of the horse, Taormino and Hazardouz Material (Metallic Cat x Scooters Daisy Dukes x Dual Smart Rey) go way
back. She and the 2016 red roan stallion, owned by Linda Mars, have earned nearly $260,000 together, with Taormino as his sole pilot.
“My relationship with this horse—I truly know and believe that, if I do my job, which isn’t much with him, he will do his,” she said. “I believe he’s going to be there for me every time. Having that confidence makes competing in these four events [that make up the World’s Greatest Horseman®] much easier to take on. I know he won’t quit me.”
MAKING THE CUT
The World’s Greatest Horseman® finals begin just as the prelims do: with the herd
MEET THE SPONSORS
Western Bloodstock LTD. is a horse auction company based in Weatherford, Texas, that is run by Jeremy Barwick. Western Bloodstock began working with the National Reined Cow Horse Association when the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® moved to Fort Worth, Texas, and handles the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Sales held every fall during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. The company elevated its support of NRCHA to a Corporate Partner level in 2021 and matched the then-purse of $50,000 for the World’s Greatest Horseman® winner, making it $100,000.
For more information, visit westernbloodstock.com
Ray Shell Ranch joined as a title sponsor of the 2024 World’s Greatest Horseman®, thanks to ranch owners Michelle and Reagan Horton’s commitment to cow horse. The Horton family’s Strawn Valley Ranch was founded in 1998 with an emphasis on the cutting horse and through their ownership and promotion of the remarkable champion sire Dual Smart Rey. The family’s legacy is continued as they embark on success with the next generation under the new title, Ray Shell Ranch. This renaissance and interest in the reined cow horse is mainly due to Horton’s daughter Madeline’s passion for the reined cow horse industry.
Taormino’s strong support system, exceptional mindset and connection with her horse allowed her to achieve what no woman ever has—earning the World’s Greatest Horseman® title.
Truly a pair of legends, Todd Crawford and One Time Legend (One Time Pepto x HR Playin Legend x Little Lenas Legend), owned by Larry Hall Cutting Horses LLC, took the Reserve Champion title with a composite score of 880 points (H: 215.5/R: 220.5/S: 224/C: 220).
work. Taormino found herself in the unenviable position of having the first draw in the afternoon event.
“I hate going first,” she asserted. “It made me more nervous than normal. But this horse, his herd work just gets better and better, and I had a plan. My goal in that first hole was to be clean and not give the judges any reason not to mark me.”
Backed up by her herd help—Shadd Parkinson, Corey Cushing, Boyd Rice and Phillip Ralls—Taormino knew she could get it done.
“I have so much confidence in all my herd help,” she shared. “Having Shadd and Boyd in my corner—I can hear them, even in the moment. When you get on that stage, your nerves can get you and drown everything out. They’re all so encouraging.”
Taormino admitted her work wasn’t perfect, but a solid 219 kicked off her quest to win the title.
CATCHING ON
The steer stopping can be the snake-bite that tanks a World’s Greatest Horseman® competitor’s chances, whether in the preliminaries or the finals. After mostly preparing herself and her horse on her own for the 2024 event, Taormino enlisted the help of her close friend, 23-time Women’s Professional Rodeo Association Breakaway World Champion Jackie Crawford, to put a few finishing touches on “Skeeter” while Taormino was busy competing at the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®.
“I’m not a rope-horse trainer,” she said. “I felt like we were hindered because both
my horse and I are green. Jackie was reluctant to take Skeeter because it was a big responsibility, but she had him for about three weeks. Once the snaffle bit was done, I roped with Jackie as much as I could until she went back on the road rodeoing.”
Taormino then turned to a client’s husband for help: National Finals Rodeo team-roping qualifier Tate Kirchenschlager.
“He really helped me understand things,” Taormino said. “He helped me in the box. Skeeter was good, but I wasn’t getting out right. It got so much better, and he gave me confidence in myself and my horse.”
Taormino and Skeeter marked a 220.5 in the preliminaries, but in the finals, they came back with a roar. They earned a 223.5—placing second in that phase—and the crowd, which included Crawford on the microphone doing commentary for the live stream, sitting right in Taormino’s sightline as she released her steer, went wild.
“I knew she was commentating; I didn’t even think about her being up there,” Taormino recalled. “It was so exciting to see her there, cheering for me. She’s one of my best friends, so seeing her in that moment got me so pumped!”
SLIDING CLOSER TO THE FINISH
Coming off the high of finishing second in the steer stopping, Taormino had to regroup, recenter and strategize. She couldn’t let emotion overtake her vision to achieve her ultimate goal.
“I didn’t want to over-show, but I wanted to show the judges what my horse could do,” she said. “Skeeter’s circles are so pretty. He runs so pretty. He drags his butt when he stops. I didn’t want it to look like I was backing off and being protective, but I didn’t want to overdo it and get sloppy. We ran in those gates, and I knew he was feeling so good. We loped off on that first large, fast circle, and he felt completely with me. I gave him all the rein I could and let him go. He stayed right with me.”
Taormino admitted she got a little ahead of herself in the final turnaround, but her horse had earned enough credit for it not to show in her score. The pair finished with a 221.5, again finishing in second for that phase.
Bee Silva
///// $10,000 FOR A ROUND
Each phase of the preliminary rounds of the World’s Greatest Horseman® offers a $10,000 payout to the winner. It’s an additional incentive to newcomers who are considering entering, which helps grow the event with horsemen and horsewomen from all parts of the Western performance industry.
REINED WORK
WR Iceman (WR This Cats Smart x Lean Irish Playgirl x Paddys Irish Whiskey) and Corey Cushing earned a 223.5 to win the reined work phase for owners Eric and Wendy Dunn. The $10,000 prize is sponsored by National Reining Horse Association & Oswood Stallion Station.
COW WORK
Leanaliltothewright
The
HERD WORK
Bet Hesa Boon (Bet Hesa Cat x Flo N Blu Boon x Pretty Boy Boon) and Clayton Edsall topped the herd work with a 223 for owner Beverly Servi. The $10,000 prize is sponsored by Beau Galyean Stallion Services.
STEER STOPPING
One Time Legend (One Time Pepto x HR Playin Legend x Little Lenas Legend) and Todd Crawford won the steer stopping with a 224.5 for owner Larry Hall Cutting Horses LLC. The $10,000 prize is sponsored by American Rope Horse Futurity Association.
and
SWINGING FOR THE FENCES
As all cow horse competitors know, you live and die by the fence work. The final element can be a complete game-changer—for good or bad—depending on the cow that’s kicked out to work, so keeping perspective and staying focused are imperative.
“I don’t look at the scores [as the event progresses],” Taormino said. “I don’t want to know. I knew I was sitting well. For the entirety of the show, I tried to keep my head down and stay focused on my goals and what I wanted to achieve and how to do that. I stayed in my lane and didn’t worry about what was happening around me. I knew I didn’t have a huge lead, but I knew it was solid. No matter what, I didn’t want to leave [the title] up for grabs. I didn’t want to safety up.”
Taormino’s mindset once again came into play here. She told herself—and her support system reiterated—that she couldn’t control what kind of cow the arena crew kicked out to her. All she could control was how she handled it.
“As I was about to go in, I’m normally pretty amped up, but I had to take a moment,” she said. “I wasn’t in any rush. I could walk in, take a breath, turn around and call for the cow. Once that cow was out, I knew I could control two things: Whether or not I watched the cow and how I managed my emotions.”
Taormino’s confidence in Skeeter helped keep her centered. Her cow gave her enough pressure, and she left no room for error. A 220.5 put her tied for third in the fence work and a total of 884.5, which earned her the World’s Greatest Horseman® title over Reserve Champion Todd Crawford, riding One Time Legend (One Time Pepto x HR Playin Legend x Little Lenas Legend) by 4.5 points.
BREAKING GLASS CEILINGS
Taormino fully recognizes the importance of being the first woman to win this title. She loves her girl gang and appreciates the references to her being a woman on top, but she’s never felt at a disadvantage as a woman in this industry.
“I love reading everything people have said about me being the first woman World’s Greatest Horseman®,” she said. “But I never see myself as a minority or at a disadvantage in this male-dominated sport. Some of my closest friends are male trainers, and I never feel I’m treated differently. Being a woman doesn’t put me at a disadvantage; there just aren’t as many of us doing it. Is it special and amazing—YES! Winning this seemed almost impossible. But I accepted the challenge.” By accepting that challenge, Taormino inspires horsewomen of all ages and riding phases to believe in themselves, put in the work, and achieve their goals and dreams. Along the way, she may inspire more horse-crazy girls to become NRCHA professionals who bridge the gap, build the talent pool, and continue to give all the competition a run for its money.
(Lenas Wright On x Shining Survivor x Shining Spark), owned by Linda Katz,
Randy Paul (left photo) tied with Peptos Stylin Time (One Time Pepto x Stylin Jewel x Docs Stylish Oak), owned by Kelby and Abbie Phillips and shown by Abbie Phillips (right photo), marking a 225.5.
$10,000 prize is sponsored by One Time Pepto.
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When you build with Rafter P Construction, you are choosing dedication, integrity, and a project that stands the test of time.
WhenyoubuildwithRafterP Construction,youarechoosing dedication,integrity,anda projectthatstandsthetestof time.
WhenyoubuildwithRafterP Construction,youarechoosing dedication,integrity,anda projectthatstandsthetestof time.
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TUFF
THEY'RE
Parker Ralston and Seven S Tuff Boots rode hard to win the 2025 World’s Greatest Youth Horseman® Championship, presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™.
BY JENNIFER PAULSON | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
It’s not often that a rider’s first try at a major title proves favorable, but for Parker Ralston, his first attempt at capturing the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman®, presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™, buckle saw him and Seven S Tuff Boots (Blindsided x My Boots Are Tuff x Woody Be Tuff) taking the title home to Colorado.
With his dad, Aaron, a successful horse trainer, and his mom, Meg, an American Quarter Horse Association world champion in reining, it’s no surprise that Parker is handy enough to claim this title in his first attempt. The pair won the herd work with a 148, tied to win the reined work with a 147, tied for third in the steer stopping with a 146.5 and placed just out of the top 10 in the preliminary fence work with a 145. A composite 585.5 had them going into the fence-only finals with a 586.5—4.5 points ahead of their closest competitors, Landri Lisac and LooksLikeLuckToMe (Smart Boons x Dual Lookin Pep x Dual Pep).
But before we get to the big win, here’s a little background. Seven S Tuff Boots started out as Parker’s mom’s mare. But as parenthood goes, she allowed her son to run away with her good horse.
“He’s a freshman at West Texas A&M University, and he needed a horse for the ranch horse team,” Meg shared. “She was our best candidate, so we decided to send her to school
In their first attempt, Parker Ralston and Seven S Tuff Boots claimed the 2025 Western Bloodstock Rayshell Ranch World's Greatest Youth Horseman®, presented by MARS EQUESTRIAN™ title with an 800 composite score, sliding to the championship by a half-point.
BY MARS EQUESTRIAN™ (Rider/ Horse/Pedigree/Owner/Composite Score/Money)
1. Parker Ralston; Seven S Tuff Boots; 2016M; Blind Sided x My Boots Are Tuff x Woody Be Tuff; Meg Griffith-Ralston; 800 (H: 148/R: 147/SS: 146.5/C: 145/F: 213.5); $5,900
2. Landri Lisac; LooksLikeLuckToMe; 2013M; Smart Boons x Dual Lookin Pep x Dual Pep; Timothy and Katherine Miller; 799.5 (H: 146/R: 147/SS: 142/C: 147/F: 217.5); $4,720
3. Lane Jones; LA Smart Chicoreys; 2013M; Smart Chic Olena x Dual Reys Belle x Dual Rey; Luke Jones; 796 (H: 142/R: 139.5/SS: 147.5/C: 148/F: 219); $3,835
4. William S. Akin; SJR Starlit Rey; 2016G; Dual Rey x A Starlit Diamond x CD Lights; William Akin; 793.5 (H: 143.5/R: 146/SS: 134.5/C: 149.5/F: 220); $3,245
5. Levi Swales; CD Shiner; 2006G; CD Olena x Shiners Little Oak x Shining Spark; John Swales; 792 (H: 143/R: 143.5/SS: 147/C: 146/F: 212.5); $2,360
6. Natalie Mori; Peparoo; 2014G; Smart Little Pepinic x Taparoo x Gallo Del Cielo; Matthew and Leah Mori; 786.5 (H: 142.5/R: 142/SS: 144/C: 145.5/F: 212.5); $2,065
7. Taylor Allen; Dual N Tomcat; 2013G; Tomcat Chex x Dual N Mary x Dual Rey; Taylor Allen; 782.5 (H: 146.5/R: 142.5/SS: 139/C: 145.5/F: 209); $1,770
8. Addison L. Tomlinson; Smooth Cat Voo; 2016M; Smooth As A Cat x Voodoo Chic x Smart Chic Olena; Vera Earl Ranch Inc.; 782 (H: 145/R: 142.5/SS: 145/C: 146.5/F: 203); $1,475
9. Cody B. Sabila; SS Guns N Roosters; 2013M; Gunners Peppy Oak x Sheza Fancy Rooster x Gallo Del Cielo; Ryan Waters; 780.5 (H: 144/R: 145.5/SS: 145/C: 145.5/F: 200.5); $1,180
10. Caden Allen; Bet Hesa Pepto; 2016G; Bet Hesa Cat x Lil Miss Pepto x Peptoboonsmal;Diane M. Clare; 774.5 (H: 132/R: 146/SS: 146.5/C: 142.5/ F: 207.5); $1,032.50
10. Callie Olson; Sweet Like That; 2013G; Sweet Lil Pepto x Olenas Jazzy Tachita x CD Olena; Jamie or Micha Olson; 774.5 (H: 142/R: 140.5/SS: 139.5/C: 146/ F: 206.5); $1,032.50
12. Jackson Poole; LK Mr Misunderstood; 2016G; Once In A Blu Boon x Cats Delite x Cats Merada; Jackson Poole; 759.5 (H: 141.5/R: 141/SS: 144/C: 140/ F: 193); $885
with him. It was bittersweet to send them both off at the same time. But he’s been doing a great job and putting in the work. He has great mentors for the team, like Jay McLaughlin.”
By putting in the work, Parker had to learn how to help his mare best and manage her emotions in the show pen.
“We’ve had some trouble with her being strong when we show,” Parker shared. “It’s taken time and effort to calm her down. But, luckily, everything worked out at this show. She came into a nice mindset and calmed down a little. Overall, I’ve been happy with how my horse has worked and progressively gotten better this week.”
To successfully compete in all four events, as Parker and his mare did, she had to be solid across the board. After four years together, he sees she can do it all.
“She’s great on a cow, especially in the herd,” he
MEET MARS EQUESTRIAN™
said. “She’s really fun to do cow stuff on.”
When it came time for the fence-only finals on Saturday night, held during the 2025 Western Bloodstock Rayshell Ranch World’s Greatest Horseman®, which packs the Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum with a rowdy crowd ready for action, Parker and his mom weren’t sure how the mare would react.
“I was really nervous,” Meg shared. “As soon as she got in there, with the loud noise, she perked up, and I was like, ‘We’ll see how this goes….’”
As it turns out, it went about as perfectly as possible. They marked a 213.5, which was enough to grab the title by a half-point.
After the finals finished, Parker was all smiles aboard his mare and on the phone with his dad, who’s also his coach at home.
“I had to call my dad,” he said with a smile. “He said good job and that he’s proud of me.”
MARS EQUESTRIAN™ is dedicated to equine sports and building a legacy of horsemen. That’s why MARS, sponsored by MARS, Incorporated, is the presenting sponsor of the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman™. Eleven competitors advanced to the cow work finals after competing in events throughout the week.
MARS EQUESTRIAN™ has sponsored world-class competitions across all equestrian disciplines, as well as shown dedication to sustainability, with the goal of improving the lives of horses, pets and the people who love them. Learn more about the event’s sponsor at marsequestrian.com, on Instagram @marsequestrianand search MARS EQUESTRIAN on Facebook.
Lisac and LooksLikeLuckToMe claimed the reserve championship with a 799.5.
Landri
MORE OUTSTANDING YOUTH HONORS
ROBBIE SCHROEDER MEMORIAL SADDLE RECIPIENT
The late, great Robbie Schroeder was most know as a roper; however, those who knew him best recognize he was a student of horsemanship. He excelled in the show pen and rodeo arena, earning accolades in roping, reining, cutting and cow horse. Each year, a custom Jeff Smith Saddlery memorial saddle is awarded to the high-scoring steer stopper in the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman®. The 2025 honor went to Lane Jones, riding LA Smart Chicoreys. The pair marked a 147.5 and finished third overall in the event.
NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL RODEO ASSOCIATION CHALLENGE WINNER
Laney Fjelstad rode Suens Little Cat (Boon Too Suen x Cant Track This Cat x High Brow Cat), owned by Veta Grande Ranch LLC, to a 293.5 (R: 147/C: 146.5) for the NHSRA Challenge title and $2,100.
ROY EDSALL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD RECIPIENT
Each year, the Roy Edsall Award is presented to a contestant entered in the Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions who demonstrates admirable sportsmanship, horsemanship and respect for his or her equine partner. The 2025 Roy Edsall Award went to Aurora Nicolazzi.
•Purchase a breeding contract with any available Legacy Bonus Stallion at Beau Galyean Stallion Services.
• 1 paid breeding contract = 1 eligible entry in Open, Non-Pro, or Amateur.
•The bonus applies regardless of the sire of the horse you’re riding.
•Anybody on any horse can purchase a breeding and be eligible.
•Compete for a piece of the projected $1 Million Purse.
•Be part of a groundbreaking program designed to grow the sport and reward excellence.
and How To
•Call Beau Galyean Stallion Services at 817.629.0611 or Fults Ranch at 806.672.6039 to secure your breeding contract. Or visit us online at beaugalyean.com for more information.
LEAGUE OF LEGENDS
This year’s NRCHA World Champions proved their dedication, skill and consistency on the road to victory.
COMPILED
BY
KRISTIN PITZER | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
It takes practice and hard work to win at a single event, but qualifying to compete for an NRCHA World Championship—and winning— requires long-term consistency and unwavering dedication. Riders must attend three NRCHA-approved shows during the season and earn at least a half-point in their class, or make the finals at the American Quarter Horse Association or American Paint Horse Association World Shows, or by placing in the top 10 at the Stock Horse of Texas world show. Once they arrive in Fort Worth, Texas, for the NRCHA Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions, they then must navigate the preliminaries to reach the finals and have a shot at the world title.
This year’s class of champions and reserve champions rose to the challenge and were rewarded with titles, paychecks and prizes aplenty.
OPEN BRIDLE
CHAMPION
Seven S Razzberry (Blind Sided x Seven S Valentina x Playgun), owned by R.A. Brown Ranch, carried Kelby Phillips to the Open Bridle world title. The pair scored a 439 (R: 220/C: 219) and picked up $12,660.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Up North Performance Horses’ stallion One Time Up North (One Time Pepto x Our Special Kitten x High Brow Cat) and Chet Martin nabbed reserve in the Open Bridle with their 438.5 (R: 217/C: 221.5), collecting $9,495.
LIMITED OPEN BRIDLE
NON PRO BRIDLE
CHAMPION
Landri Lisac and Lookslikelucktome (Smart Boons x Dual Lookin Pep x Dual Pep) won the Non Pro Bridle world title after the pair scored a 437.5 (R: 217.5/C: 220). Lisac and the mare, owned by Timothy and Katherine Miller, collected $5,146.25.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Boon Doxx (Sannman x Docs Stylish Liz x Docs Stylish Oak) carried owner Stefani Wagley to a 436.5 (R: 218/C: 218.5) to collect the reserve world title and 4,027.50.
CHAMPION
Taking the Limited Open Bridle title were Neighbaline (Metallic Rebel x One Smokin Chic x Freckle Face Smoke) and Jayden Panomarenko. The pair accumulated a score of 436 (R: 217.5/C: 218.5), and owners Joseph and Leeann Slipher banked $4,540.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Sarah Wolfs piloted her mare Reydas Sugar Kat (Kit Kat Sugar x Royal Reyda x Dual Rey) to the reserve title with a 434.5 (R: 215/C: 219.5), collecting $3,632.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BRIDLE
LEVEL 1 NON PRO BRIDLE
CHAMPION
Treylyn Hancock and Slyd My Way (Zezes Pepto Cat x Pastels Play Girl x Pastels Smart Lena) earned a 438.5 (R: 219.5/C: 219) to win the title. The pair collected $3,850.
RESERVE CHAMPION
With a composite 436.5 (R: 217.5/C: 219), Collin Ochsner and SJR Diamond Icon (CD Diamond x A Short Bunny x Shorty Lena) picked up the Level 1 Non Pro Bridle reserve title and $3,080.
CHAMPION
Allysn Light and Bet Lucky 13 (Bet Hesa Cat x Miss Lucky Starlight x Grays Starlight) claimed the Intermediate Non Pro Bridle world title with their 437.5 (R: 217/C: 220.5), collecting $3,530.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Reserve champions Ruby Robbins and Wreckless Rey (Dual Rey x Lenas Ginger x Shorty Lena) banked $2,824 after scoring a 435 (R: 213/C: 222).
OPEN HACKAMORE
LIMITED OPEN HACKAMORE
CHAMPION
Actually Metallic (Metallic Cat x CR Tuff Tizzy x Woody Be Tuff) and owner Sandro Ferretti took home the Limited Open Hackamore World Championship and $4,187.50 with their cumulative score of 424 (R: 212/C: 212).
RESERVE CHAMPION
With a 421 (R: 217.5/C: 203.5), Kind Little Pistol (Haywire Sand x Sly Little Rocker x Rockin Little Pistol) and Brady Collup ended up in reserve. The pair collected $3,350 for owners Daryld and Barbara Pottorff.
CHAMPION
With a score of 440.5 (R: 217.5/C: 223), Shes Reys Cat (WR This Cats Smart x Shes Playin Rey x TR Dual Rey) and CJ Shopbell picked up the Open Hackamore World Championship. The title came with a $11,540 payday for owner Michelle Shopbell.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Spanish Nights (Metallic Rebel x Lil Bit Reckless x CD Royal) and Veronica Swales took reserve in the Open Hackamore, collecting $8,655 for owner Bar One Land & Cattle LLP. The duo scored a 436.5 (R: 219.5/C: 217).
NON PRO HACKAMORE
OPEN TWO REIN
CHAMPION
CR Dainty N Tuff (Woody Be Tuff x Dainty Dual Rey x Dual Rey) and Lee Deacon picked up the world title in the Open Two Rein with their composite score of 448 (R: 221.5/C: 226.5), garnering $8,555 for owner Lee Ann McDaniel.
RESERVE CHAMPION
A 439.5 (R: 220.5/C: 219) gave Voodoo It Ruf (Shiners Voodoo Dr x Foxy Lil Catalyst x Lil Ruf Peppy) and Corey Cushing the reserve title, which came with $6,416.25.
CHAMPION
Toni Hagen Heath and Teles No Lies (Meteles Cat x Ima One Time Wonder x One Time Pepto) brought home the Non Pro Hackamore world title with their score of 438.5 (R: 218.5/C: 220), picking up a check worth $4,425.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Reserve champions Darby Callahan and Bet Hese All That (Bet Hesa Cat x Cowgirl Sparkles x Shining Spark) scored 434.5 (R: 216/C: 218.5), which earned $3,540 for owner Mickey Callahan.
NON PRO TWO REIN
NON PRO BOXING
CHAMPION
A 438 total (R: 218.5/C: 219.5) gave Gracie Bair and Reys Precious Star (Reys Star Cat x Tazanic x Nic It In The Bud) the Non Pro Boxing title, which came with $6,050.
RESERVE CHAMPION
A 436.5 composite (R: 217.5/C: 219) elevated Sydney Whitling and Extra High Caliber (Snipers Smoking Gun x Extra Dry Dazzel x Extra Dry Chex) to the reserve title, which awarded the pair $4,537.50.
CHAMPION
Erin Hanson and Shiners Voodoo Doll (Shiners Voodoo Dr x CR CD Slide x CD Lights) nabbed the Non Pro Two Rein World Championship with their score of 440 (R: 215.5/C: 224.5), taking home $4,325 for owner Ellie Willoughby.
RESERVE CHAMPION
After accumulating a score of 439 (R: 218/C: 221), Myles Brown and Overthelegallimitrab (One Time Royalty x Billie Travis x Continental Fly), a gelding owned by Rob A. Brown, picked up the reserve title plus a check work $3,460.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BOXING
LIMITED NON PRO BOXING
CHAMPION
Karlee Vogel won the Limited Non Pro Boxing World Championship riding Mr Fletch Cat (Mr Playinstylish x Lil Fletch Cat x Royal Fletch). The pair scored a 434.5 composite (R: 214/C: 220.5) and banked $2,515.50.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Reserve champions Amy Stoney and Sparkville (Gunners Tinseltown x Sparklight Lillies x Lena Spark) scored a 433 composite (R: 218/C: 215) and received a $1,935 check.
CHAMPION
Haylee Scholzen rode Ristaboon (Once In A Blu Boon x Catarista x Smart Aristocrat) to a 431.5 (R: 208.5/C: 223), winning the Intermediate Non Pro Boxing World Championship and $3,735.
RESERVE CHAMPION
A score of 431 (R: 215/C: 216) led Baoxin Tilton and Outreygous Diamond (CD Diamond x A Rumor Has It x Dual Rey) to the reserve title, and the pair collected $2,801.25.
YOUTH COW HORSE
YOUTH BOXING
CHAMPION
Kixi Meador and Skeets Nicker won the Youth Boxing World Championship with a composite score of 434.5 (R: 216.5/C: 218), adding $1,919 to Meador’s record.
CO-RESERVE CHAMPION
Colt Jesperson and Mister Ballistic (Metallic Cat x Playgun Is Smart x Playgun) collected the Youth Boxing Co-Reserve title with a 433.5 (R: 214/C: 219.5), garnering $1,363.50.
CO-RESERVE CHAMPION
Tucker Crafton and Ohh You Betcha (Bet Hesa Cat x Isabellena x Quejanaisalena) also tied for reserve with a score of 433.5 (R: 215/C: 218.5), collecting $1,363.50.
CHAMPION
Hunter Hays won $1,820 after piloting Metallic Metal (Metallic Cat x Nurse Gray x Grays Starlight) to the Youth Cow Horse World Championship with a cumulative score of 442.5 (R: 219/C: 223.5).
RESERVE CHAMPION
In reserve were Kixi Rea Meador, who rode Skeets Nicker (Skeets Peppy x Boomer Nicolette x Boomernic) to a 434 (R: 216/C: 218) and collected $1,365.
These are a few of the 2025 Chrome Cash added-money Working Cow Horse events:
Two ways to APHA registration:
1. Lineage – If your AQHA horse has at least one APHA-registered parent, your horse is eligible for APHA registration REGARDLESS OF COLOR.
2. Markings – If your horse has two inches of solid white hair in the qualifying area (above the hock/knee & behind the eye)
BOX DRIVE
CHAMPION
Calley Rae Satriana rode Wing Anda Prayer (Meteles Cat x Wings Ofa Lena x Quejanaisalena) to a score of 443 (R: 218/C: 225) and the Box Drive World Championship, which paid $3,450.
RESERVE CHAMPION
Cheryl Chown and Xtra Short Trick (Shiners Voodoo Dr x Short And Royal x Short Oak) picked up the reserve title and $2,587.50 with their cumulative score of 442 (R: 215.5/C: 226.5).
HORSE SHOW CHAMPIONS
INTERMEDIATE OPEN BRIDLE
CR Tuff Star War (Woody Be Tuff x Shortys Starlight x Grays Starlight) and Shadd Parkinson clinched the Intermediate Open Bridle championship with a 296.5 (R: 147.5/C: 149). The 2016 gelding collected $2,200 for owner Laurie Boaz.
SELECT NON PRO BRIDLE
Allysn Light and Bet Lucky 13 (Bet Hesa Cat x Miss Lucky Starlight x Grays Starlight clinched the Select Non Pro Bridle championship with a 295 (R: 146.5/C: 148.5). The 2013 stallion collected $900 and is owned by Robert & Allysn Light.
INTERMEDIATE OPEN HACKAMORE
Shes Reys Cat (WR This Cats Smart x Shes Playin Rey x TR Dual Rey) and CJ Shopbell clinched the Intermediate Open Hackamore championship with a 297 (R: 147.5/C: 149.5). The 2019 mare collected $1,960 for owner Michelle Shopbell.
INTERMEDIATE OPEN TWO REIN
Shine Like A Dime (Shiners Nickle x Hickory Ten x Docs Hickory) and Abigayle Mixon clinched the Intermediate Open Two Rein championship with a 294 (R: 147.5/C: 146.5). The 2018 mare collected $1,035 for owner Michelle Cannon.
HORSE SHOW CHAMPIONS
LIMITED OPEN TWO REIN
VE One Hired Gun (Hired Gun x One Autumn Breeze x One Time Pepto) and Bailey Bearup clinched the Limited Open Two Rein championship with a 289 (R: 144/C: 145). The 2018 mare collected $1,000 for owners Vera Earl Ranch Inc.
YOUTH BOXING 13 & UNDER
DJ
and Doctor
(Very
the
with
SELECT NON PRO BOXING
Cheryl Chown and Xtra Short Trick (Shiners Voodoo Dr x Short And Royal x Short Oak) clinched the Select Boxing championship with a 295.5 (R: 146.5/C: 149). The 2016 mare collected $1,260 and is owned by Robert & Cheryl Chown.
SELECT BOX DRIVE
Julie Smith and Logicality (Magicality x Boonlight Angel x Boonlight Dancer) clinched the Select Box Drive championship with a 292.5 (R: 142.5/ C: 150). The 2016 gelding collected $450 and is owned by Julie Smith.
YOUTH COW HORSE 13 & UNDER
Kixi Meador and Skeets Nicker (Skeets Peppy x Boomer Nicolette x Boomernic) clinched the Youth Cow Horse 13 & Under championship with a 290 (R: 145/C: 145) The 2005 gelding is owned by Wade Meador.
COWBOY CLASS
South Wichita (Bet Hesa Cat x Gins Last x Tanqueray Gin) and Cooper McCleskey topped the Cowboy Class with a 431 composite (R:142/ C: 143/SS: 146). Owned by Tongue River Ranch, the win earned the duo a check for $4,175.
Crafton
Spark
Smart Remedy x Magic Sparkles x Shining Spark) clinched
Youth Boxing 13 & Under championship
a 296.5 (R: 146.5/C: 150). The 2013 gelding is owned by Debbie Crafton.
THE RIOS OF MERCEDES FAMILY OF BRANDS
CUT THROUGH THE CONFUSION. WIN WITH CONFIDENCE.
O
ROANMEO, ROANMEO
Roanmeo and Justin Wright delivered stellar performances at February’s Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby, claiming the Open Championship during the “month of love.”
BY KRISTIN PITZER | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
As one of the first reined cow horse shows of the year, the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby, held during the Kalpowar Quarter Horses Celebration of Champions, can be a good barometer for figuring out where a young horse is at in its training. That was Justin Wright’s plan, at least, when he entered Roanmeo (Hottish x Trouble N Roan x Metallic Cat) in the Open Derby. The stallion exceeded Wright’s expectations, carrying Wright to a composite 664 to win the Open.
“With it being my first show of the year and gearing up for the ones to come, I just wanted to see where we were and whatnot,” Wright said. “He felt good going into it and all the way through it. I was really happy with him, and it felt good to end up on top.”
Roanmeo didn’t miss a beat throughout the herd, reined and cow work. The stallion, who tends to be cowy and easy to show in the herd,
After accumulating a composite 664, Roanmeo and Justin Wright won the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Open.
2025 OPEN TOP 10
(Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money)
1. Roanmeo; Justin Wright; 20S (Hottish x Trouble N Roan x Metallic Cat); S C Ranch Co. Inc.; 664 (H: 220.5/R: 218.5/C: 225); $55,000
2. Venom Boonsmal; Sarah Dawson; 20S (Peptoboonsmal x A Black Widow x High Brow Cat); Aaron Ranch; 662.5 (H: 219/R: 220.5/C: 223); $41,000
3. Metallic N Shine; Clayton Edsall; 20M (Metallic Cat x Just A Sparknshine x Shining Spark); Andrea Luce; 661 (H: 217.5/R: 220.5/C: 223); $34,000
4. Rey Mo Rebel; Brendon Clark; 20S (Metallic Rebel x Mo Faye Rey x Dual Rey); NY Kid Ranch LLC; 660.5 (H: 221/R: 222.5/C: 217); $29,000
5. Droppitlikeitshott; Erin Taormino; 20G (Hottish x Some Kinda Merada x Cats Merada); Cassie Kuznetzow; 660 (H: 216.5/R: 221.5/C: 222); $19,750
5. Sandy Wood Go; Clay Volmer; 20M (Sannman x CR Tuff Love x Woody Be Tuff); Michele and Jason Atamian; 660 (H: 223/R: 216.5/ C: 220.5); $19,750
7. HSR Smart WR Lena; Sarah Dawson; 21M (WR This Cats Smart x Shining Miss Lena x Shining Spark); Rogers Heaven Sent Ranch LLC; 659.5 (H: 217/R: 220.5/C: 222); $14,500
8. Memreyble; Corey Cushing; 21S (Dual Rey x Stylish Play Lena x Docs Stylish Oak); Teton Ridge; 659 (H: 219/R: 218.5/C: 221.5); $10,250
8. Lil Sann Belle; Boyd Rice; 20S (Sannman x Tessa Belle x San Perdiz); Heidi Abshire; 659 (H: 222/R: 220/C: 217); $10,250
10. Sand N My Genes; Luke Jones; 20M (Sannman x SDP I Got Good Genes x Dual Rey); Scott Armstrong; 657 (H: 216/R: 219/C: 222); $9,000
“THEY’RE GREAT CUSTOMERS, BUT FirST aND FOrEMOST, ThEY’rE VErY GOOD FriENDS.”
—Justin Wright
started on a high note by marking a 220.5. Next, his 218.5 in the reined work was enough to keep them in the running for the overall title, pending how their fence work went. Since the cow work is one of Roanmeo’s strongest events, Wright knew they had a shot.
“We were in reach of being able to get up there in the top spots with a big fence run,” Wright said. “He’s always been consistent and on the higher side in the fence work, and really fun to show in the fence work, so going into that, I knew we had a shot—if we were big and had enough cow, he could do it. He was very good; we had the perfect cow that we didn't box very long, and he read it perfectly.”
The duo won the cow work with a 225, landing the championship and a $55,000 check for owner SC Ranch Co. Inc., a Hawaiian beef and Western performance horse operation owned by non pros Charles and Vanessa Stevens. It wasn’t
OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Venom Boonsmal (Peptoboonsmal x A Black Widow x High Brow Cat), a 2020 homebred stallion belonging to Aaron Ranch, and Sarah Dawson secured the Open Reserve Championship with a 662.5 (H: 219/R: 220.5/C: 223), banking $41,000.
the stallion’s first title—in 2024, he and Wright won the California Reined Cow Horse Association Paso Robles Spring Derby, on top of making the finals at the NRCHA Stallion Stakes and tying for eighth at the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby.
“He’d been really good and consistent all last year, and then this year, I think he’s gotten another year under him and is just that much more mature and grown up,” Wright said.
Wright plans to keep showing Roanmeo in the near future. In the off-season, Charles will likely continue to take him home and work him himself. Wright was grateful to have owners like the Stevenses on his team, as well as his family and crew at the shows and home.
“They’re great customers, but first and foremost, they’re very good friends,” Wright said. “They've been very generous, letting me show some horses for them. It’s nice to have people like that on your side.”
INTERMEDIATE OPEN CHAMPION
After scoring a composite 654 (H: 216/R: 217/C: 221), Bamacats Courage (Bamacat x Playguns Courage x Playgun) and Jon Hawthorne took home the Intermediate Open title, worth $17,000. Chuck Terro owns the 2020 mare, bred by Dr. H.B. Bartlett, DVM.
INTERMEDIATE OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Cheaches (Smart Chic Olena x Shinin Peaches x Shining Spark), a 2020 mare bred by JT III and Sandra Neal, and his owner, Jay McLaughlin, picked up the Intermediate Open Reserve title with a composite 654 (H: 216/R: 220/C: 218), garnering $12,500.
LIMITED OPEN CHAMPION
The Limited Open Championship went to Actually Metallic (Metallic Cat x CR Tuff Tizzy x Woody Be Tuff) and Sandro Ferretti with a composite 649.5 (H: 218.5/R: 215/C: 216). Ferretti and his 2020 Rocking P Ranch LLC-bred mare collected $5,000 for the win.
LIMITED OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
For the Limited Open Reserve title, Michael Kemna-bred 2020 mare Metal Reb (Metallic Rebel x Telesis Little Lena x Lenas Telesis) and Andy Kurtz collected $3,750 for owners Mark and Lori Cross. The pair scored a composite 647.5 (H: 213/R: 214.5/C: 220).
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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.
to see why adequan.com/horse-owners/talk-to-your-veterinarian
2003; 166: 52-57.
study 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
LEVEL 1 OPEN CHAMPION
With a composite 644 (H: 212/R: 213.5/C: 218.5), Hey Mitch Que Paso (Call Me Mitch x Cowgirl Sparkles x Shining Spark) and Waylon Davis clinched the Level 1 Open Championship. The 2021 stallion, bred by Dorothy Queen, collected $4,500 for Davis and co-owner James Penisten.
LEVEL 1 OPEN RESERVE CHAMPION
Stylish Woody (Woody Be Tuff x CD Stylish Girl x High Brow CD), a 2021 gelding bred by Madalyn Cowart, carried Caylee Parrish to a 643.5 (H: 213/R: 215/C: 215.5) for the Level 1 Open Reserve title. The pair collected $3,500 for owner Lucky D Performance Horses LLC.
OPEN NOVICE HORSE CHAMPION
The Open Novice Horse Championship was won by Droppitlikeitshott (Hottish x Some Kinda Merada x Cats Merada) and Erin Taormino with a compsite 660 (H: 216.5/R: 221.5/C: 222). Bred by Cable Creek Ranch LLC, the 2020 gelding collected $6,500 for owner Cassie Kuznetzow.
OPEN NOVICE HORSE RESERVE CHAMPION
Reserve in the Open Novice Horse went to HSR Smart WR Lena (WR This Cats Smart x Shining Miss Lena x Shining Spark) and Sarah Dawson after the duo marked a 659.5 (H: 217/R: 220.5/C: 222). The 2021 homebred mare banked $5,000 for Rogers Heaven Sent Ranch LLC.
OPEN CHROME CASH CHAMPION
With a 660.5 (H: 221/R: 222.5/C: 217), Rey Mo Rebel (Metallic Rebel x Mo Faye Rey x Dual Rey) and Brendon Clark won the Open Chrome Cash incentive, which paid $4,880 to owner NY Kid Ranch LLC. Michelle Cannon bred the 2020 stallion.
2018 NRCHA OPEN FUTURITY CHAMPION #1 NRCHA OPEN ALL AGES/ALL DIVISIONS HORSE OF THE YEAR 2018 LTE: $174,997 • • • SHOWN BY COREY CUSHING BRED & OWNED BY SAN JUAN RANCH POWERED BY
A composite 659 led Debbie Crafton and Believe Im Smart to the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Non Pro Championship.
CLEVER IN COWTOWN
After months away from the show pen, Believe Im Smart proved his name true, carrying Debbie Crafton to the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby Non Pro Championship.
BY KRISTIN PITZER | PHOTOS BY PRIMO MORALES
As Debbie Crafton saddled up Believe Im Smart for the Tres Osos Cow Horse Derby, she was unsure what to expect. The gelding, who she’d successfully shown as a 3- and early 4-year-old, had been sitting at home since the 2024 NRCHA Kimes Ranch Western Derby simply because she had several 5-year-olds she wanted to show to finish out their derby years. Though it was his first time in the show pen in months, Believe Im Smart rose to the occasion, carrying her to the Derby Non Pro Championship.
“I show enough of them, I was like, ‘I’ll be curious to see how he steps back in the pen,’ but it was pretty easy getting him ready, and I felt confident going into it,” Crafton said. “I was kind of on the fence whether or not I really felt like he was going to be a premier event horse, and then just coming back like he did, and having him really go horse show, it gave me a lot of confidence in him to continue the derby year.”
The pair began on a high note, marking a 219 in the herd work that launched them into second place from the get-go. Crafton said sometimes the gelding can get too fresh before working cows, but her daughter, DJ, had him warmed up perfectly. Throughout their run, the horse stayed smart, and Crafton thanked her herd help—Kyle Noyce, Tyler Merrill, Matt Koch and Dustin Mills—for their assistance.
Next, Crafton and Believe Im Smart (Dont Stopp Believin x One Smart Long Legs x One Time Pepto) marked a 217.5 in the reined work. Crafton
2025 NRCHA TRES OSOS DERBY NON PRO TOP 10
(Horse/Rider/Pedigree/Owner/Score/Money)
1. Debbie Crafton; Believe Im Smart; 20G (Dont Stopp Believin x One Smart Long Legs x One Time Pepto); Debbie Crafton; 659 (H: 219/R: 217.5/C: 222.5); $10,000
2. Brent Ratliff; Twntytwntywhatamitch; 20G (Call Me Mitch x Shiney N Quick x Smart Shiner Nic); Brent Ratliff; 658 (H: 214/R: 223/C: 221); $8,000
3-4. Hope Mills; Smartlookinmercedes; 21G (Dual Smart Rey x Smooth Play Kit x Smooth As A Cat); HM Horses; 653.5 (H: 218.5/R: 221/C: 214); $5,900
3-4. Lanham Brown; RAB Miss Blue Bayou; 20M (Once In A Blu Boon x This Shiney Miss x WR This Cats Smart); R A Brown Ranch; 653.5 (H: 219.5/R: 221/C: 213); $5,900
5. Debbie Crafton; Modern Metallic; 21G (One Shiney Metallic x Ic The Biscuits x Dual R Smokin); Debbie Crafton; 651.5 (H: 218/R: 217.5/ C: 216); $4,400
6. Lanham Brown; RAB Chica Bonita; 21M (Metallic Masterpiece x RAB Go Peppy Fly x Gold Peppy Freckles); R A Brown Ranch; 650.5 (H: 215/R: 219/C: 216.5); $3,500
7. Myles Brown; Eddie B Tuff R A B; 21G (Woody Be Tuff x Shesa Rock Hancock x Hesa Eddie Hancock); Rob A Brown; 650 (H: 214.5/R: 217.5/C: 218); $3,500
8. Addison Fjelstad; Big Whoopie Dual; 21G (Metallic Rebel x Kitty Can Dual x Dual Rey); Veta Grande Ranch LLC; 649.5 (H: 218/R: 213/ C: 218.5); $2,400
9. Amy Bailey; Lightly Armed; 20G (PG Heavily Armed x Starlight Starbrite x Somebody Smart); Paul & Amy Bailey; 649 (H: 215.5/R: 212.5/C: 221); $2,400
10. Brent Ratliff; TR Hello Sugar; 21G (Kit Kat Sugar x Adelle x Metallic Cat); Brent Ratliff; 648.5 (H: 214/R: 219.5/C: 215); $1,950
“HE SURE ENOUGH ShOWED Up, aND iT WOrKED OUT rEallY GOOD.”
—Debbie Crafton
said the gelding is typically good in the reining, but he can get a little wiggly.
“He’s kind of an overachiever sometimes, and he doesn’t need to achieve that much right there,” Crafton said. “But it was pretty simple, and I felt pretty good going into it.”
The duo rounded out their bid for the championship by winning the cow work with a 222.5. Crafton had great confidence in the horse when she called for her cow, and as their run progressed, her faith in him was justified.
“He went and made that first turn and I was like, ‘Holy cow, let’s go get this thing,’” Crafton said. “He sure enough showed up, and it worked out really good.”
Crafton and the gelding, bred by Michelle Cannon, won with a composite 659, banking a check worth $10,000. She also rode a second horse, Modern Metallic (One Shiney Metallic x Ic The Biscuits x Dual R Smokin),
to fifth place with a 651.5 (H: 218/R: 217.5/C: 216). The 4-year-old gelding is a half-brother to Biscuits R Smokin, the horse she piloted to the 2022 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Championship.
“After I won the Futurity on that mare, I called [breeder] Bobby Lewis, who owns Ic The Biscuits, and said, ‘Hey, what do you have out of that mare?’” Crafton recalled. “He had this colt, and I bought him sight-unseen, then turned around and bought another full brother that’s a 3-year-old this year. As of today, I’m the only one to ride anything out of Ic The Biscuits, and I think her produce earnings are somewhere around $75,000 or so, so that’s been fun that I’ve gotten to do that for her.”
Crafton plans to show Believe Im Smart and Modern Metallic the rest of the year. She thanked her family for going with her to the shows and helping her out while there.
NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Last year’s Non Pro Derby Champions, Brent Ratliff and Twntytwntywhatamitch (Call Me Mitch x Shiney N Quick x Smart Shiner Nic), took home the reserve title this year with their 658 (H: 214/R: 223/C: 221). The 2020 gelding, bred by Big Sky Performance Horses LLC, collected $8,000.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO CHAMPION, LIMITED NON PRO CHAMPION & NOVICE HORSE NON PRO CHAMPION
A composite 649.5 (H: 218/R: 213/C: 218.5) gave Addison Fjelstad and Big Whoopie Dual (Metallic Rebel x Kitty Can Dual x Dual Rey) the Intermediate Non Pro, Limited Non Pro and Novice Horse Non Pro championships. Owned by Veta Grande Ranch LLC and bred by Lone Oak Performance Horses LLC, the 2021 gelding garnered $7,650.
INTERMEDIATE NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION & SELECT NON PRO CHAMPION
Amy Bailey rode Lightly Armed (PG Heavily Armed x Starlight Starbrite x Somebody Smart) to a 649 (H: 215.5/R: 212.5/C: 221) for the Intermediate Non Pro Reserve title. Bred by Renato Rezende Barbosa, the 2020 gelding collected $3,500, plus another $240 for the Select Non Pro Championship.
LIMITED NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION, LEVEL 1 NON PRO CHAMPION & NOVICE HORSE NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Taylor Worley and 2021 Rick and Jennifer Worley-bred gelding Catastrophe (EBR Kitty Hawk x High Rollin Country x High Rollin Cat) took reserve in the Limited Non Pro with a composite 647.5 (H: 215/R: 214/C: 218.5) and collected $1,500. The pair also won the Level 1 Non Pro Championship for another $2,150 and placed second in the Novice Horse Non Pro, adding $975.
LEVEL
1 NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Dustin Faucette rode 2021 mare GAR Joan Jett (Stevie Rey Von x PG Selena x Playgun), bred by Mark and Eva Gardiner, to reserve in the Level 1 Non Pro with a 641.5 (H: 212/R: 215/C: 214.5). The pair banked $1,725.
NON
PRO CHROME CASH CHAMPION & SELECT NON PRO RESERVE CHAMPION
Sarah Clymer and Oh Cay Maverick (Metallic Rebel x Oh Cay Meriah x Light N Lena)’s 646 (H: 216.5/R: 213.5/C: 216) garnered the Select Non Pro Reserve title, worth $160, and won the Non Pro Chrome Cash incentive for another $1,600. Monica Duflock bred the 2020 gelding.
NON
PRO BOXING CHAMPION & SELECT NON PRO BOXING CHAMPION
Cheryl Chown rode 2019 gelding Hippster (Metallic Rebel x Hip Hip Sue Rey x Dual Rey), bred by Beau Galyean, to a 653 composite (H: 219/R: 212.5/C: 221.5). The pair won the Non Pro Boxing Championship and a $7,000 paycheck, as well as the Select title, worth another $510.
Zycosan®
(pentosan polysulfate sodium injection)
250 mg/mL
For intramuscular use in horses only. Brief Summary (For Full Prescribing Information, see package insert)
CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
DESCRIPTION: Zycosan contains pentosan polysulfate sodium, a semi-synthetic polysulfated xylan. It is a pale yellow to brownish yellow, clear, sterile solution.
INDICATION: For the control of clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis in horses.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Horses with hypersensitivity to pentosan polysulfate sodium or any of the inactive ingredients in Zycosan should not receive Zycosan. Do not use Zycosan concurrently with other anticoagulant drugs. Do not use in horses with clotting disorders or within 24 hours of surgical procedures (see Warnings and Precautions).
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS:
User Safety Warnings: Not for use in humans. Keep out of reach of children. Pentosan polysulfate sodium is a weak anticoagulant. Caution should be used when administering Zycosan if you are taking an anticoagulant. In case of accidental self-injection, seek immediate medical attention. If product comes into contact with skin, rinse skin thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if needed. To obtain a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), contact Dechra at (866) 933-2472.
Animal Safety Warnings and Precautions:
Zycosan has been shown to prolong coagulation parameters up to 24 hours after injection, therefore caution should be used when administering this drug before or after strenuous activities (see Target Animal Safety). Due to the anticoagulant effects, this drug may exacerbate Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH).
The concurrent use of NSAIDs with Zycosan has not been evaluated. Due to the anticoagulant effects of Zycosan and known anticoagulant effects of some NSAIDs, caution should be used if NSAIDs are concurrently administered. Horses concurrently treated with Zycosan and NSAIDs should be monitored for hemorrhage or other clinical signs of abnormal bleeding (e.g., petechiae, ecchymosis, or epistaxis). The safety of long-term repeat use of Zycosan has not been evaluated. Pigmentary changes in the retina (pigmentary maculopathy) have been reported in human patients following long-term oral use of pentosan polysulfate occurs in horses. The safe use of Zycosan has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating horses.
Other Warnings: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.
ADVERSE REACTIONS:
Injection site reactions were the most frequently reported adverse reactions in associated with clinicopathology changes in some cases. Other adverse reactions reported in more than one horse were prolongation of coagulation parameters (activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT)), lethargy, behavior changes, and colic. To report suspected adverse events, for technical assistance or to obtain a copy of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), contact Dechra at (866) 933-2472 For additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, contact FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or online at http://www.fda.gov/reportanimalae.
STORAGE CONDITIONS: Store at room temperature 68-77°F (20-25°C), with excursions to 59-86°F (15-30°C).
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NON PRO BOXING RESERVE CHAMPION & SELECT NON PRO BOXING RESERVE CHAMPION
Chown also took home the Non Pro Boxing Reserve Championship on Velvit Elvis (Dual Smart Rey x Duals Play Kitten x High Brow Cat), a 2020 gelding bred by Billy Martin, after scoring a 650.5 (H: 213/R: 217/C: 220.5). The pair collected $5,250 plus an additional $408 for taking reserve in the Select.
LEVEL 1 NON PRO BOXING CHAMPION
Jack Kimes and Hotnrebellious (Metallic Rebel x Ima Hot Model x Spots Hot) scored a 646.5 composite (H: 217.5/R: 212/C: 217) for the Level 1 Non Pro Boxing Championship. Kimes and the Star C Land & Cattle Co. LLC-bred 2019 gelding banked $1,800.
Break free
Help your equine patients by controllingthe clinicalsigns associated with osteoarthritis
• The only FDA approvedpentosan polysulfate sodium injection
• Convenient;only4intramuscularinjections required
• Not limited touse for specificjoints1
Important SatefyInformation
Aswithalldrugs,sideeffectsmayoccur.Forintramuscularuseinhorsesonly.Notfor usein humans.Pentosanpolysulfate sodiumis aweakanticoagulant.CautionshouldbeusedwhenadministeringZycosanifyouaretakingananticoagulant. Incaseofaccidental self-injection,seekimmediatemedicalattention.Ifproductcomesintocontactwithskin,rinseskinthoroughlywithwater andseekmedicalattentionifneeded. HorseswithhypersensitivitytopentosanpolysulfatesodiumshouldnotreceiveZycosan.Do notuseZycosanconcurrentlywithotheranticoagulantdrugs. Donotuseinhorseswithclottingdisordersorwithin24hoursof surgicalprocedures.Cautionshouldbeusedwhenadministeringthisdrugbeforeorafterstrenuousactivities.Cautionshouldbe usedwhenNSAIDSareadministeredconcurrentlyduetotheanticoagulanteffectsofZycosan.IfZycosanandNSAIDSareused concurrently,horsesshouldbemonitoredforhemorrhageorotherclinicalsignsofabnormalbleeding.ThesafeuseofZycosanhas notbeenevaluatedinbreeding,pregnant,orlactatinghorses.Thesafetyoflong-termrepeatuseofZycosanhasnot been evaluated.Themostfrequentlyreportedadversereactionsareinjectionsitereactions,prolongationofcoagulationparameters (activatedpartialthromboplastintime(aPTT)andprothrombintime(PT).Refertotheprescribinginformationfor completedetailsor visitwww.dechra-us.com.
LEVEL 1 NON PRO BOXING RESERVE CHAMPION
The 2019 stallion Boon Style Knock Out (Blind Sided x Stylish Foxie Gal x Docs Stylish Oak), bred by Aaron Ranch, carried Kaycee Buckley to a 642 (H: 212/R: 211.5/C: 218.5) for the reserve title, taking home $1,450.
NON PRO BOXING CHROME CASH CHAMPION
The Non Pro Boxing Chrome Cash incentive went to Erin Keys and Dixies Reybl Yell (Dual Smart Rey x Dizzy Miss Dixie Cat x Pretty Boy Cat). Keys rode the 2019 gelding, bred by Madeline Horton, to a 642 (H: 210/R: 214/C: 218) and collected $1,440.
NON PRO BOXING CHROME CASH RESERVE CHAMPION
Nicki Marmelzat and Lil Miss Sparkle
Cat (Blind Sided x SJR Whole Lotta
Rock x Smooth As A Cat) scored a 637 composite (H: 210/R: 215/C: 212) to garner reserve in the Non Pro Boxing Chrome Cash incentive, which paid $960. Dallas and Beverly Talkington bred the 2020 mare.
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HORSE PROTECTION ACT HIGHLIGHTS
Learn how this lingering initiative could affect cow horse.
BY JOE CARTER, DVM
The Horse Protection Act of 1970 vaulted itself into the consciousness of the Western performance horse industry at the beginning of 2025. If you haven’t heard about it, here is an overview.
The Horse Protection Act was passed into law over 50 years ago to address inhumane training practices of Tennessee Walking Horses. At the time, it was common for Tennessee Walking Horses trainers to deliberately “sore” their horses to achieve an animated gait and gain an advantage in competition. Judges rewarding animated gaits with wins resulted in increased horse sales, enhanced broodmare and stallion prospect values and more perks.
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders & Exhibitors Association failed to regulate itself, and local animal welfare law enforcement also failed. As a result, the federal government stepped in; that’s how big and widespread the problem became. Remember, this began before computers, cell phones with cameras, the Internet and social media.
In December of 2024, the Animal and Plant Inspection Service, a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, announced it would expand HPA enforcement to non-speed horse events, including horse shows. This means everything except horse racing and rodeo events.
Reined cow horse was excluded, likely because our sport and cutting are a part of high school rodeo. However, their proposed oversight included reining and other Western performance horse events.
I’ve participated in every Zoom event with APHIS I’ve known about since the announcement, and the question of “Why the expansion beyond Tennessee Walking Horses?” has never been answered.
Typically, regulatory boards are complaint-driven. That means APHIS shouldn’t expand its mission unless enough complaints have been filed to make Congress strengthen its enforcement of the act. There has been no action by Congress, and I’m unaware of any complaints against Western performance horse events. The motivation remains a mystery.
As you know, the Western horse show industry regulates itself well. All the associations have rules calling for the humane treatment of horses. They have stewards, boards of directors and ethics committees to enforce them. Furthermore, horse shows are subject to state and local animal welfare laws. Those laws are the recourse for the public. A member of the public can file a complaint with local law enforcement if they witness behavior interpreted as inhumane.
Our primary objection to expanding this law beyond Tennessee Walking Horses is with all the local oversight and lack of complaints. Why is there a need for federal oversight? Shouldn’t that money be spent in more productive ways? And, speaking of money, horse shows will be charged with the cost of inspectors. One inspector per 100 horses will be required at an event. The added expense would cost tens of thousands of dollars daily for major horse shows.
It’s not that our industry is afraid of having our horses examined. We know we care for them humanely and invest thousands of dollars each year to ensure they are “unsore.” As you know, soreness is the No. 1 reason our horses do their job poorly, and we’d never purposely make them sore.
APHIS mysteriously proposes a solution while it investigates a problem. Everyone knows we don’t have a problem with “soring.”
The implementation of these rules was to begin on February 1. However, the NRCHA Board of Directors and other horse groups requested a 60-day delay. This would allow us to further research APHIS’s perceived problem, find out why they want to do this and educate them on why it’s unnecessary. We were granted that stay.
The situation with the Horse Protection Act is fluid. The NRCHA Board of Directors believes it’s only a matter of time before we’re included, so we must be proactive. If you have questions, contact me or a board member, and we will gladly share all we know. To stay informed, visit the American Horse Council online at horsecouncil.org.
“
THE NRCHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BEliEVES
iT’S ONlY a MaTTEr OF TiME BEFOrE WE’rE iNclUDED, SO WE MUST BE prOacTiVE.”
Joe Carter, DVM Oklahoma Equine Hospital Official NRCHA Veterinarian
—Joe Carter, DVM
For The Modern Cowgirl
Alaska Reined Cow Horse Association
Nathan Horsman
Phone: 907-982-1930
Email: nchorsman@gmail.com
Alberta Reined Cow Horse Association
Krystal Meade
330, 205 Quarry Park Blvd. SE Calgary, AB Canada T2C 3E7
Phone: 403-991-4617
Email: info@cowhorse.ca Website: cowhorse.ca
Arizona Reined Cow Horse Association
Jeffry Heyer
Phone: 508-221-1358
Email: jrhyer@comcast.net
Website: azrcha.com
Atlantic Reined Cow Horse Association
Jennifer Black
1600 Mapledale Road
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Phone: 717-433-5357
Email: ARCHASecretary.2022@gmail.com
Website: atlanticRCHA.com
California Reined Cow Horse Association
Murray Thompson
2335 N Gurr Road
Atwater, CA 95301
Phone: 209-201-8975
Email: info@californiacowhorse.com Website: californiacowhorse.com
National Reined Cow Horse Association
Australia Incorporated
Wilba Thornberry
P.O. Box 95
Gulgong, NSW Australia 2852
Phone: 042-965-9288
Email: info@nrchaaustralia.com Website: nrchaaustralia.com
Central Montana Reined Cow Horse Association
Dave Clark
P.O. Box 194
Boyd, MT 59013
Phone: 307-349-0551
Email: wyoclarks@yahoo.com Website: cmrcha.com
AFFILIATE LISTING
Current as of March 13, 2025
Colorado Reined Cowhorse Association
Emily Parry
21660 E Road
Delta, CO 81416
Phone: 970-520-1069
Email: coloradocowhorse@gmail.com
Website: coloradoreinedcowhorse.com
European Reined Cow Horse Association
Augusto De Fazio
Via Natalia Ginzburg
1 - 11015 Ivrea (TO) Italy
Phone: +39 338 8860657
Email: ercha@hotmail.it
Website: ercha.org
Gem State Stock Horse Association
Callee Miller
301 Market Road
Caldwell ID 83607
Phone: 541-519-4748
Email: Cowhorse22@gmail.com
Website: gemstatestockhorse.com
High Desert Reined Cow Horse Association
Quincy Warner P.O. Box 894
Lakeview, OR
Phone: 541-219-2716
Email: warnerquincyr@gmail.com
Website: hdrcha.com
Idaho Reined Cow Horse Association
Laura Kiracofe
P.O. Box 1375
Caldwell, ID 83606
Phone: 208-409-5656
Email: laurakiracofe@yahoo.com
Website: idahoreinedcowhorse.com
Lavaca Ranch Reined Cow Horse Association
Carie Patrick 1748 CR 444
Hallettsville, TX 77964
Phone: 717-600-6417
Email: lavacaranchcowhorse@gmail.com
Website: lavacacowhorse.com
Magic Valley RCHA
Kaycie Keller
P.O. Box 5956
Twin Falls, ID 83303
Phone: 208-329-0499
Email: kkayc_13@yahoo.com
Website: mvrcha.com
Montana Reined Cow Horse Futurity, Inc.
Margaret Ore
P.O. Box 1604
East Helena, MT 59635
Phone: 406-227-7019
Email: more@mt.net
Website: montanareinedcowhorse.com
Nevada Reined Cow Horse Association
Laura Norman 2720 E. Lone Mountain Road
Las Vegas, NV 89091
Phone: 559-760-2796
Email: laura.saddleup@gmail.com
Website: nvrcha.org
New York Reined Cow Horse Association
Cindy Pfeifer 6040 Cleary Road
Livonia, NY 14487
Phone: 585-749-1764
Email: cindypfeifer59@gmail.com
Website: newyorkrcha.com
North Central Reined Cow Horse Association
Jim Wilson 2409 25th Ave
Rice Lake, WI 54868
Phone: 641-420-0440
Email: wilson@myomnitel.com
Website: ncrcha.com
Northeastern Reined Cowhorse Alliance
Kim VanDerSluis
56 Woodborough Road
Guelph, ON Canada N1G 3K5
Phone: 519-590-1558
Email: nerchainfo@gmail.com
Website: nercha.ca
Northern California Reined Cow Horse Association
Kelly Hamblin 4203 Road M Orland, CA 95963
Phone: 530-510-0198
Email: ncrcha2023@gmail.com
Website: ncrcha.info
Alberta Stock Horse Association
Shawna Husted 27245 TWP 350
Red Deer County, AB Canada T4G 0M4
Phone: 403-875-1369
Email: abstockhorse1@gmail.com
Northwest Reined Cow Horse Association
Debbie Pilgoret
P.O. Box 302
Newburg, OR 97132
Phone: 503-318-7339
Email: nwreinedcowhorse@gmail.com Website: nwrcha.com
Panhandle Reined Cow Horse Association
Lane Arnold P.O. Box 1053 Canyon, TX 79015
Phone: 806-341-0941
Email: panhandlecowhorse@gmail.com
Website: panhandlecowhorse.com
South Texas Reined Cow Horse Association
Tina McCleary
1951 Poe Prairie Road Millsap, TX 76066
Phone: 979-218-0633
Email: southtexasrcha@gmail.com Website: strcha.org
AFFILIATE LISTING
Current as of March 13, 2025
Southern California Reined Cow
Horse Association
Roy Rich
Phone: 951-529-6258
Email: socalrcha@aol.com Website: ltht@airenetworks.com
Southern Reined Cow Horse Alliance
Lee Alford 18211 La Tung Road Covington, LA 70435
Phone: 985-373-8347
Website: srchala.com
Southeastern Reined Cow Horse Association
Rachel Cobb 104 Murphy Hill Road Belton, SC 29627
Phone: 864-276-9678
Email: southeastcowhorse@gmail.com Website: southeasternrcha.com
NRCHA SUSPENDED LIST
NRCHA membership privileges will be suspended for the second offense of bad checks, per rule 1.1.6.2 and for non payment of debt to NRCHA Show Management or NRCHA Approved Show Management. Additionally, all amounts for advertising in the NRCHA publication, Reined Cow Horse News, are due and payable within 30 days of receipt.
Keetch Ranch, Waddell, AZ
Desert Spring Ranch, Queen Creek, AZ
Aneka Schelbeck, Del Rey Paint & Qtr Horses, Cotton Wood, CA
Blair Bynum, Bynum Farms, Palm City, FL
Brandon Johnson, Nebraska City, NE
Brian Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Brian & Cynthia Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Bridgette Lanham, Eastover, SC
Carina Stephens, CJC Western Horses, Runnymede, Victoria, Australia
Chris Anderson, CA Performance Horses, Marietta, OK
Cody Christensen, Heber City, UT
Cynthia Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Darren Roberts, Kent, NY
Don Stockman, Dayton, TX
Donnie Boyd, Sarasota, FL
Elizabeth Winkle, Sarasota, FL
Southwest Reined Cow Horse Association
Gay Lenz 11587 Hunt Lane Guthrie, OK 73044
Phone: 405-818-7556
Email: glenz@glenzenterprises.com Website: srcha.org
Team Professional Italia Western Show A.S.D.
Alexandra Liberati
Via Ottaviano 42, Roma, Rome Italy 192 Phone: +39 347 26 22 783
Email: alexandraliberati@gmail.com Website: westernshow.it
Volunteer Ranch Horse Association
Catie Campbell P.O. Box 292 Moscow, TN 38057
Phone: 765-524-6003
Email: volunteerranchhorseassociation@gmail.com Website: volrha.com
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.
Elizabeth Clary, Dark Horse Consulting, Inc., Inkom, ID
Gina Roidopoulos, Saddle Creek Ranch, Heath, TX
Gordon Robinson, Big Rock Arena, Granum, AB, Canada
Jill Serena, Castaic, CA
Jim Babcock, Babcock Ranch, Sanger, TX
Justin Crawley, Crawley Ranch, Springdale, AR
Kalli Reed, Rosston, TX
Kinsey Dodson, Cleburne, TX
Laura Delfino, Martinez, CA
Lorena Bechtholdt, Flying P Paints & Quarter Horses, Fallon, NV
Marcy Campbell, Creston, CA
Marilyn Bowling, Oasis Ranch, Inc., Jacksboro, TX
Miguel Gonzalez, Unique Ranch, Miami, FL
Nonie Casselman-Reed, Touchstone
Land Ranch LLC., Stephenville, TX
Pat Faitz, Lakeland, FL
Pete Bowling, Oasis Ranch, Inc., Herald, CA
Current as of March 13, 2025
Pompeo Capezzone, Castrocielo, FR, Italy
Quenten Childs, Cleburne, TX
Riccardo Capezzone, Castrocielo, FR, Italy
Rick Steed, Steed Training, Okeechobee, FL
Rita Ward, Canyon, TX
Robert Frobose, Modesto, CA
Robyn Bush, Visalia, CA
Rod Brents, Childress, TX
Roy Hockensmith, Frankfort, KY
Shad DeGiorgis, El Dorado Hills, CA
Susan Ray, Dream Cross
Terry Malarkey, Lazy T Shamrock Ranch, Star, ID
Thera Myers, Oxnard, CA
Tom Daughetee, Kemmerer, WY
Vernon Smith, Santa Maria, CA
LAE = Limited Aged Event, HS = Horse Show
Dates
April 16-19 North Central RCHA April Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA ncrcha.com
April 16-20 Southwest RCHA April Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Ardmore, OK Southwest RCHA srcha.org
April 16-20 Nevada RC&CHA Winnemucca Spring Spectacular and Derby HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Winnemucca, NV Nevada RC&CHA nrccha.com
Apr 23-26 European RCHA Derby & Horse Show #2 HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Travagliato, Italy European RCHA ercha.org
Apr 25-27 Atlantic RCHA Dust Off The Rust HS, Cat. 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA atlanticrcha.org
Apr 25-27 California RCHA Show #3 HS, Cat. 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA californiacowhorse.com
May 2-3 AzRCHA Vera Earl Classic HS, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Sonoita, AZ Arizona RCHA azrcha.com
May 6-11 SRCHA Wild Rag Cattle Classic HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Ardmore, OK Southwest RCHA srcha.org
May 7-11 North Central RCHA May Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA ncrcha.com
May 9-11 Southern California RCHA Jimmy Flores Sr Memorial HS, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA scrcha.com
SHOW SCHEDULE
Current as of March 13, 2025
Jennifer Schueller 641-590-1041 jenschueller21@gmail.com
Jackie Cline entry@srcha.org
Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com
Otto De Fazio 3.93389E+11 ercha.otto@gmail.com
Cindy Pfeifer 585-749-1764 cindypfeifer59@gmail.com
Reanna Dillman 303-895-5256 info@horseshowpros.com
Shawn Martin 623-217-3879 emailmyentries@gmail.com
Jackie Cline entry@srcha.org
Jennifer Schueller 641-590-1041 jenschueller21@gmail.com
Kelley Hartranft 714-267-5912 klsgrn@yahoo.com
May 10-11 Northwest RCHA Cowgirl Classic HS, Cat. 1 Eugene, OR Northwest RCHA nwrcha.com Keri Croft 503-701-3305 dkcroft4@frontier.com
May 10-11 Central Montana RCHA Twisted Wire Spring Classic HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Vaughn, MT Central Montana RCHA cmrcha.com
Reanna Dillman 303-895-5256 info@horseshowpros.com
May 14-18 Colorado RCHA Drought Buster HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 McCook, NE Colorado RCHA coloradoreinedcowhorse.com Keri Croft 503-701-3305 dkcroft4@frontier.com
May 14-18 California RCHA Horse Shows #4 & 5 HS, Cat. 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA californiacowhorse.com Reanna Dillman 303-895-5256 info@horseshowpros.com
May 15-18 Gem State SHA Spring Horse Show HS, Cat. 1 Nampa, ID Gem State SHA gemstatestockhorse.com TBD
May 15-18 SERCHA May Bridle Spec, Derby, & Horse Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Perry, GA Southeastern RCHA southeasternrcha.com Mikayla Alexander 936-900-4568 mikaylaalexander317@gmail.com
May 16-17 NvRCHA Show #4 HS, Cat. 1 Las Vegas, NV Nevada RCHA nvrcha.org
Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com
May 16-18 Alberta SHA May Cow Horse Show HS, Cat. 1 Ponoka, Alberta Alberta SHA stockhorse.ca Shawna Husted (1403) 875-1369 abstockhorse1@gmail.com
May 22-25 Panhandle RCHA Windy City Warm Up HS, Cat. 1 Lubbock, TX Panhandle RCHA panhandlecowhorse.com Nelle Murphy 580-276-0761 whoanelle75@gmail.com
May 23 - 25 Atlantic RCHA Mike Carone Classic HS, Cat. 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA atlanticrcha.org Cindy Pfeifer 585-749-1764 cindypfeifer59@gmail.com
May 28- June 7 NRCHA Derby HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Scottsdale, AZ NRCHA NRCHA.com NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com
June 11-15 Nevada RC&CHA Dave Grashuis Memorial Spectacular and Derby HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Winnemucca, NV Nevada RC&CHA nrccha.com
Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com
June 13-15 Alberta SHA Wildrose Derby & Cow Horse Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Ponoka, Alberta Alberta SHA stockhorse.ca Shawna Husted 14038751369 abstockhorse1@gmail.com
June 13-15 Atlantic RCHA Summer Shootout HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA atlanticrcha.org Cindy Pfeifer 585-749-1764 cindypfeifer59@gmail.com
June 14-15 Lavaca Ranch RCHA Cow County HS, Cat. 1 Hallettsville, TX Lavaca Ranch RCHA lavacacowhorse.com
June 18-22 North Central RCHA June Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA ncrcha.com
June 18-21 European RCHA Hackamore Classic & Horse Show #3 HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Travagliato, Italy European RCHA ercha.org
June 20-22 High Desert RCHA Show #3 & Spectacular HS, Cat. 1 Lakeview, OR High Desert RCHA hdrcha.com
June 20-22 California RCHA Horse Show #6 HS, Cat. 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA californiacowhorse.com
Arlynn Fulton 717-600-6417 lavacaranchcowhorse@gmail.com
Jennifer Schueller 641-590-1041 ncrcha.com
Otto De Fazio 3.93389E+11 ercha.otto@gmail.com
Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com
Reanna Dillman 303-895-5256 info@horseshowpros.com
June 23-29 Colorado RCHA Firecracker HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Douglas, WY Colorado RCHA coloradoreinedcowhorse.com Keri Croft 503-701-3305 dkcroft4@frontier.com
July 5-6 Southern California RCHA Grant Berg Memorial Show HS, Cat. 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA scrcha.com
July 9-13 PRCHA Red Dirt Rendezvous HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Lubbock, TX Panhandle RCHA panhandlecowhorse.com
July 11-13 California RCHA Horse Show #7 HS, Cat. 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA californiacowhorse.com
July 25-27 High Desert RCHA Show #4 HS, Cat. 1 Powell Butte, OR High Desert RCHA hdrcha.com
Kelley Hartranft 714-267-5912 klsgrn@yahoo.com
Nelle Murphy 580-276-0761 whoanelle75@gmail.com
Reanna Dillman 303-895-5256 info@horseshowpros.com
Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com
July 21-27 NRCHA Hackamore Classic HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Tulsa, OK NRCHA NRCHA com NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com
July 30-Aug 2 European RCHA Pre-Futurity & Horse Show #4 HS, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Travagliato, Italy European RCHA ercha.org
Aug 5-11 SRCHA Pre Futurity & Horse Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Fort Worth, TX Southwest RCHA srcha.org
Otto De Fazio (39338) 886-0657 ercha.otto@gmail.com
Jackie Cline entry@srcha.org Aug 7-10 California RCHA Mid-Summer Pre-Futurity & Horse Show #8 HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Tulare, CA California RCHA californiacowhorse.com
Aug 8-10 Atlantic RCHA WrightTimeToSmokum Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA atlanticrcha.org
Aug 13-17 Colorado RCHA Western Slope Pre-Futurity HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Montrose, CO Colorado RCHA coloradoreinedcowhorse.com
Aug 14-17 North Central RCHA August Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA ncrcha.com
Reanna Dillman 303-895-5256 info@horseshowpros.com
Cindy Pfeifer 585-749-1764 cindypfeifer59@gmail.com
Keri Croft 503-701-3305 dkcroft4@frontier.com
Jennifer Schueller 641-590-1041 jenschueller21@gmail.com
Aug 21-24 Cowboy State Classic HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Big Piney, WY csshaclub com Bonnie DeVerniero 406-694-5234 bonnied.horseshowsec@gmail.com
Sept 1-7 European RCHA Americana Derby & Horse Show #5 HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Friedrichshafen Messe, Germany European RCHA ercha.org
Sept 6-7 Southern California RCHA September Cow Horse Classic HS, Cat. 1 Temecula, CA Southern California RCHA scrcha.com
Sept 11-14 North Central RCHA September Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA ncrcha.com
Sept 16-21 Colorado RCHA Mid America HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Douglas, WY Colorado RCHA coloradoreinedcowhorse.com
Sept 18-21 PRCHA Fall Into Autumn HS, Cat. 1 Lubbock, TX Panhandle RCHA panhandlecowhorse.com
Otto De Fazio (39338) 886-0657 ercha.otto@gmail.com
Kelley Hartranft 714-267-2769 klsgrn@yahoo.com
Jennifer Schueller 641-590-1041 jenschueller21@gmail.com
Keri Croft 503-701-3305 dkcroft4@frontier.com
Nelle Murphy 580-276-0761 whoanelle75@gmail.com
Sept 19-21 Alberta SHA Sept Cow Horse Show HS, Cat. 1 Claresholm, AB Alberta SHA stockhorse.ca Shawna Husted (1403) 872-1369 abstockhorse1@gmail.com
Sept 19-21 Atlantic RCHA The Green Showdown HS, Cat. 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA atlanticrcha.org Cindy Pfeifer 585-749-1764 cindypfeifer59@gmail.com
Sept 20-21 Lavaca Ranch RCHA Cattle Battle HS, Cat. 1 Hallettsville, TX Lavaca Ranch RCHA lavacacowhorse.com Arlynn Fulton 717-600-6417 lavacaranchcowhorse@gmail.com
Sept 26-28 SERCHA Fall Futurity, Bridle Spec, Derby, & Horse Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Jacksonville, FL Southeastern RCHA southeasternrcha.com Mikayla Alexander 936-900-4568 mikaylaalexander317@gmail.com 27-Sep San Benito County Fair Cow Horse Show HS, Cat. 1 Tres Pinos, CA sanbenitocountyfair.com Laura Norman 559-760-2769 laura.saddleup@gmail.com
Oct 3-18 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Fort Worth, TX NRCHA NRCHA.com NRCHA 940-488-1500 entries@nrcha.com
Oct 7-11 European RCHA Futurity, Autumn Show & Horse Show #6 HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Travagliato, Italy European RCHA ercha.org
Otto De Fazio (39338) 886-0657 ercha.otto@gmail.com
Oct 15-19 Alberta SHA Futurity, Hackamore Classic & Horse Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Ponoka, Alberta Alberta SHA stockhorse.ca Shawna Husted 403-875-1369 abstockhorse1@gmail.com
Oct 30-Nov 2 Atlantic RCHA Code West Classic HS, Cat. 1 Dillsburg, PA Atlantic RCHA atlanticrcha.org Cindy Pfeifer 585-749-1764 cindypfeifer59@gmail.com
Nov 9-16 California RCHA Paso Robles Fall Classic Snaffle Bit Futurity, Derby & Horse Show #9 HS, LAE, Cat. 1 Paso Robles, CA California RCHA californiacowhorse.com
Nov 10-16 North Central RCHA November Show HS, LAE, Cat. 1, Cat. 2 Cannon Falls, MN North Central RCHA ncrcha.com
Reanna Dillman 303-895-5256 info@horseshowpros.com
Jennifer Schueller 641-590-1041 jenschueller21@gmail.com
