Ohio Quarter Horse News - Winter 2021 by Ohio Quarter Horse Association

Ohio Quarter Horse News Winter 2021

C ONTENTS

Volume 63 | Issue 4

Features 8 Sister Success

Kiphart Sisters Barrel Race To The Top

24 2021 Congress Still The One!

32 Congress Results

Congratulations to OQHA Members

73 Congress NYATT

Ohio NYATT Team Takes 2nd

Regulars 5 Meet the Staff 6 Editor’s Letter 7 President’s Letter 11 2022 Show Schedule 74 Affiliate News 80 Annual Banquet 82 Membership Form 83 Queen Candidates 109 OQHFoundation

Scholarship Program

4 4 Ohio Ohio Quarter Quarter Horse Horse News News

2021 Officers & Directors 12 OQHA 84 OAQHA 96 OQHYA 2022 Elections 14 OQHA

Officer & Director Nominations

85 OAQHA

Officer & Director Nominations

97 OQHYA

Officer & Director Nominations

THE OHIO QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION 6325 Quarter Horse Drive | Columbus, OH 43229 614.505.7200 | Fax 614.505.3490 info@oqha.com | www.oqha.com

Ohio Quarter Horse News 5

Editor’s Letter

OQHA Members,

Having joined the Ohio Quarter Horse Association at the end of June, I jumped in feet first into the Marketing and Communications role and right into the final stages of planning for the 2021 All American Quarter Horse Congress.

It’s hard to believe that this year is already coming to a close and that I can offically say I have one Congress under my belt! Thank you to everyone for welcoming me to the team with open arms, especially the Board of Directors and the great team at OQHA (in no particular order): Scott, Lisa, Rhonda, Joanne, Carey, and David.

I’m looking forward to being involved with the Awards Banquet, Annual Picnic, and some local horse shows, all while prepping for 2022 Congress!

I am grateful to be a part of OQHA and the All American Quarter Horse Congress, and I’m looking forward to many more years to come.

Thank you for helping to make 2021 an incredible year!

TAYLOR STAUS

Marketing & Communications

6 6 Ohio Ohio Quarter Quarter Horse Horse News News

Dear Ohio Quarter Horse Family,

President’s Letter

The Ohio Quarter Horse Association (OQHA), like the rest of the world, experienced another year of change and uncertainty in 2021. COVID-19 continued to be on the forefront of everyone’s’ mind. We all have stories of how the pandemic impacted our lives, our businesses, and our families and OQHA was no exception. Rumors and doubt swirled and kept the pages of social media filled with controversies. I know we all heard it, and at times, we all wondered if the All American Quarter Horse Congress would be cancelled again? Would vendors come, would exhibitors come, is the fairgrounds going to be open? Would we, could we, have a 2021 Congress? Let me tell you we did!! With the help and commitment from our valued Exhibitors, the OQHA Board of Directors, the Tri-Chairmen, our Leadership Team, our Affiliate Associations, the OQHA staff, and so many volunteers, we battled through it all and we showed why we are STILL THE ONE! We all need to thank our CEO, Dr. Scott Myers for being “all-in” and pushing us all to make sure this year’s Congress was an event we will never forget. The countless hours, phone calls and meetings seemed to never end but his commitment to our association never wavered. It has been my honor to serve as your President this year and to see our Association rise to all the challenges that faced us. All of you had a significant part in making 2021 a success. I personally want to thank the OQHA Officers, Board of Directors, the Past Presidents, Honorary Directors, OQHA staff and Dr. Myers for supporting me, OQHA and the Congress! Your commitment and passion for keeping us at the forefront of our industry is beyond compare and all of you are truly the best in the business. I also want to thank our affiliate associations for their time and effort in providing our members with incredible horse shows across the state and continuing to demonstrate why Ohio remains one of the most competitive states in the country. These efforts have kept the Ohio horse shows strong and well attended. We are looking forward to even bigger events in 2022. As a reminder, the nominations for 2022 Officers and Directors have been finalized and you will be receiving your voting ballots. Please review the list of candidates and make sure your voice is heard by casting your vote. As we close out 2021, it would only be appropriate to celebrate everyone’s success and achievements at our OQHA Annual Banquet. Make sure to plan on attending one of the best state association awards banquets where more than $75,000 in awards will be given to our members. The banquet is set for February 5th at the Hilton in downtown Columbus. Watch for reservation information coming soon. Thank you all again for your commitment and passion and for reminding the country we are #STILLTHEONE! Best regards,

GREG TORDOFF OQHA President

Ohio Quarter Horse News 7

Kiphart Sisters Barrel Race To The Top

KIPHART SISTERS Jason and Valerie Kiphart of Wilmington, Ohio raise, train and compete an impressive lineup of proven barrel horses. They hold multiple Congress, Futurity and AQHA World and Reserve World Champion titles. Their daughters, Payton, 12, and Piper, 10, successfully follow in their footsteps! Payton has been riding from the time she could sit up. Payton “stole” her horse from her mother, Valerie, in June 2019 after her mom delivered their new baby brother and future barrel racer, Oaklen. Dashing French Lady, or June, was born at the Kiphart farm in Nashport, Ohio. After Payton was born, Valerie was able to work with June until Payton was old enough to take over. June is a very special horse to the Kiphart family. Not only did Valerie do extremely well with her, but June is a survivor of neurologic EHV. The chances of her surviving were slim, and the chances of her recovering and running again were even more slim. Piper has been riding since she was 5 months old, and she loves it. She started riding her horse, LSF Down Home Tuxedo, or Tux, in September 2020. Tux, who Piper describes as “sweet and kind”, is now 17 years old. One of Piper’s favorite things about Tux is that he was broke and trained by her dad, Jason. Despite being raised by Congress Champion parents, the Kiphart sisters still put in the hard work,

Ohio Quarter Horse News

dedication, and the training necessary to become Champions on

NYATT Barrels

their own.

1st - Dashing

When asked about training, Payton said that it took her a long

French Lady |

time to figure out how to ride June. “I struggled getting the first

Payton Kiphart

(barrel), but I knew she could do it. (June) always had a good first barrel with mom, so I worked really hard. My parents both helped me.” Payton went on to say, “Once I got the first barrel, I kept dragging, or knocking, barrels over leaving them. I would get so discouraged. I even told mom she may have to take June back two weeks before the Congress because I kept hitting barrels.” During Congress, Payton’s only goal was a clean run. “I had hit so

Level 1 Youth

many barrels this year that’s all I cared about.” Even after winning

Barrel Racing 13

the NYATT Barrels, Payton was aiming for more clean runs and

& Under

possibly making it in to the top 5 in the L1 Class. She ended up making 4 out of 5 clean runs. “I couldn’t believe it. June even got

1st - Dashing

faster every run. I would have loved to make the sweepstakes fi-

French Lady |

nals, but I was so excited to only be a couple out of it, and (June)

Payton Kiphart

made her fastest run of the week in the 2nd go of the sweeps. I

15th - LSF Down

couldn’t ask any more of her.”

Home Tuxedo | Piper Kiphart

Piper’s training was a little different, as she was just looking for Tux to stay in shape. “Tux is an easy keeper. I long trot and lope mostly. I work on his face and walk the pattern a lot to keep Tux

Bruce and Connie Vansickle, grandparents, taking part in the awards presentations.

and I doing what we need to do. My parents think that having our

Youth Barrel

“auto pilot” right is a big deal. Dad rides Tux sometimes when

Racing 13 &

he gets too pushy and not listening, but he usually doesn’t need

Under

much.” 1st - Dashing Piper was nervous going into Congress, especially after showing

French Lady |

in August and having a hard time getting a first barrel. During

Payton Kiphart

NYATT Barrels, Tux ran to the wall at the first barrel and stopped.

18th - LSF Down

They made a few changes and worked on their approach before

Home Tuxedo |

the L1 class, and Piper and Tux ended up placing 15th! “I was over

Piper Kiphart

the moon!!”

PAYTON AND PIPER’S THOUGHTS ON HOW THE CONGRESS WENT “Pretty much just shock. Even

“I wanted to place so bad. I am so

now I still cant believe it. Our

excited and proud that Tux and I

miracle horse that shouldn’t be

did it. My sister even gave me one

alive or running has stunned us

of her win jackets so I could get

all yet again. I am very, very

my top 15 (patch) and Tux’s name

happy. June deserved this so

on it!! I can’t wait for next year’s

much. She got a lot of treats!!”

Congress!!”

-Payton Kiphart

-Piper Kiphart

Ohio Quarter Horse News 9

50% DISCOUNT ON STALLION SERVICES WHEN PURCHASED THROUGH THE SOUTHERN BELLE BREEDERS PROGRAM

SOUTHERN BELLE BREEDERS CLASSES HELD AT AQHA World Show | APHA World Show All American Quarter Horse Congress Stallion breedings may be purchased at 50% off the advertised stud fee plus a $100 administrative fee. Stallion enrollments are still being accepted.

www.quarterhorsecongress.com

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Rhonda Harter rharter@oqha.com 614.505.7200 ext 125 www.quarterhorsecongress.com

SHOW SCHEDULE February 25-27 – The Challenge – Springfield, OH March 25-27 - OMIQHA Warm Up Show – Springfield, OH May 6-15 – The Madness – Wilmington, OH May 26-29 - Buckeye Reining Spectacular – Springfield, OH June 10-12 - OMIQHA Summer Sunsation – Springfield, OH July 7-10 - Little Buckeye - Columbiana, OH

Ohio Quarter Horse News 11

Greg Tordoff

Clark Bradley Past President

OQHA President Executive Committee

Chris Cecil Darnell

George Seanor

Hank Clason

Past President

1st Vice President Executive Committee Congress Tri-Chairman

Past President

Roger Landis

Wayne Erwin

2nd Vice President Executive Committee

Brent Maxwell

Executive Committee

David McDonald, DVM

Ed Dingledine Honorary Director Honorary Director

Bill Flarida

Honorary Director

Bob Hexter

Honorary Director

Executive Committee

Fritz Leeman

Hank Clason

Binnie Ann Masters

Executive Committee

Chris Darnell

Congress Tri-Chairman

Kelli Diaz

Congress Tri-Chairman

Past President

Honorary Director

David McDonald, DVM Past President

Dr. Scott Myers, DVM Past President

Alan Potts Past President

Donald Recchiuti Honorary Director

Skip Salome Past President

Chuck Smith Honorary Director

Dan Trein

Honorary Director

Brent Tincher Honorary Director

Brent Maxwell Past President

1212Ohio Ohio Quarter Quarter Horse Horse News News

PAST PRESIDENTS & HONORARY DIRECTORS

2021 OFFICERS

2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Rod Atherton (2/22)

Kristine Nagy (2/23)

Congress Program, VIP Camping

Cynthia Bauman (2/22)

Affiliate Relations, EWD/Heroes on Horses, Horse Show Advisory/Show & Contest, Lectures/Demonstrations, Morning Refreshments, NYATT, Special Event Ticket Sales, Trail Ride*

Justin Billings (2/23)

Annual Banquet, Horse Show Advisory/Show & Contest, Marketing, Public Service Announcements, Special Event Ticket Sales, Stall Move-In Day, Technology

Rick Cecil (2/22)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Annual Awards, Congress Futurities, Horse Show Advisory/Show & Contest, Medication Task Force, Morning Refreshments, NYATT, Professional Horsemen, Super Sale

Matt Claypool (2/23)

Affiliate Relations*, Congress Futurities, Horse Show Advisory/ Show and Contest, Judging Tournament, Nominating, Professional Horsemen, Rules, Riding Areas, Stall Move-In Day, Trail/Western Riding

Kelli Diaz (2/23)

Annual Banquet*, Commercial Exhibitors, Event Planning, Finance, Food & Beverage, Marketing, Membership, Public Policy, Special Event Ticket Sales, Tri-Chairmen

Shawn Flarida (2/22)

Congress Program*, EWD/Heroes On Horses, Grievance*, Judging Tournament, Lectures/Demonstrations*, Membership, Morning Refreshments*, Ohio Queens*, Speech Contest*, Speed/ Contesting

Art O’Brien (2/24)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Congress Futurities, Horse Show Advisory/Show & Contest, Lectures/Demonstrations*, Medication Task Force, Rules, Trail/Western Riding

Judd Paul (2/24)

Affiliate Relations, Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Congress Futurities, Finance, Horse Show Advisory/Show and Contest, Marketing, Professional Horsemen, Riding Areas, Rules, Stall Move-In Day, Trail/Western Riding

Chad Piper (2/24)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Congress Futurities, Lectures/ Demonstrations, Professional Horsemen, Riding Areas, Special Event Ticket Sales, Stall Move-In Day

Lynne Puthoff (2/24)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Congress Futurities, Horse Show Advisory/Show and Contest, NYATT, Professional Horsemen

Sally Puzacke (2/22)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Congress Program, Commercial Exhibitors, Judging Tournament, Marketing, Morning Refreshments, Nominating, Roping*, Speech Contest

Congress Futurities, Professional Horsemen, Reining, Riding Areas

Todd Salome (2/22)

Kyle Flatter (2/22)

Dennis Taylor (2/23)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Annual Awards*, Horse Show Advisory/Show and Contest, Judging Tournament, Membership, NYATT, Professional Horsemen, Riding Areas, Special Event Ticket Sales, Stall Move-In Day, Trail/Western Riding

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, NYATT*, Trail Ride* Annual Awards, Annual Banquet, Finance, Grounds Security, Lectures/Demonstrations, Marketing, Overflow Trailers, Special Event Ticket Sales, Stall Move-In Day

Missy Thyfault (2/24)

Randy Jacobs (2/23)

Congress Futurities, Commercial Exhibitors, Judging Tournament, Professional Horsemen

Congress Futurities, Horse Show Advisory/Show & Contest, Nominating, Professional Horsemen, Ohio Queens, Special Event Ticket Sales, Trail/Western Riding

Ron Kendle (2/22)

Randy Wilson (2/24)

Annual Awards, Annual Banquet, EWD/Heroes On Horses*, Grounds Security, Marketing, Membership*, Morning Refreshments, Overflow Trailers*, Special Event Ticket Sales, Stall Move-In Day*, VIP Camping

Congress Futurities, Grievance*, Horse Show Advisory/Show and Contest, Medication Task Force, Professional Horsemen, Riding Areas

Eric Wyers (2/22)

Katsy Flarida (2/22)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Lectures/Demonstrations, Reining*, Special Event Ticket Sales

Animal Protection/Fire Safety, Commercial Exhibitors, Grievance, Long Range Planning, Public Policy, NYATT, Special Event Ticket Sales, Stall Move-In Day, Super Sale, Technology

Cindy Morehead (2/22)

Animal Protection/Fire Safety*, Commercial Exhibitors*, Hunter/Jumpers, Judging Team, Morning Refreshments*

* Denotes Committee Chairman

Ohio Quarter Horse News 13

OQHA Nominees

2022 OQHA

OFFICER & DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS

During the September Ohio Quarter Horse Association monthly Board of Directors meeting, nominations were made for the 2022 election slate. Nominations are as follows: President Greg Tordoff 1st Vice President George Seanor 2nd Vice President Judd Paul Directors Cynthia Bauman Rick Cecil Shawn Flarida Kyle Flatter Jeff Gore Ron Kendle

Roger Landis Cindy Morehead Sally Puzacke Todd Salome Eric Wyers

Voting Procedure • Election ballots will be mailed in December. • Officers: Vote for one candidate per office. • Directors: Vote for at least 4 and no more than 6 directors for ballot to be counted. • One ballot per return envelope. • Ballots must be received by January 28th. Ballots should be mailed to: Holbrook & Manter CPAs 103 Professional Pkwy Marysville, OH 43040

1414Ohio Ohio Quarter Quarter Horse Horse News News

CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT : GREG TORDOFF

OCCUPATION : I work for Covia Corporation, a mining company that produces

OQHA Nominees

C AND I DATES

high purity silica sand for Industrial and Energy Markets. My current position is Director of Sales for Industrial Markets.

Current Involvement I am the President of Wild Oats Farm and we are members of SOQHA, NOQHA, EOQHA, AQHA and NSBA. My wife and I are founding members of the Ohio Quarter Horse Association Foundation and assist in developing educational activities/ events for OQHYA. Our family is also involved in local charities such as Nationwide Children’s Hospital, American Heart Association’s Go Red Campaign, OhioHealth Kobacher Hospice House, Flying Horse Farm and we are members of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Powell, Ohio. I am also actively involved in associations within my industry including the American Foundry Association.

Contribution to OQHA I have served as OQHA President for the past year. During this past year I have gain invaluable experience and knowledge regarding OQHA and our future. I have regularly attended monthly OQHA meetings and have participated on several OQHA and Congress Committees. I have been the Chair of the Technology Committee for the past four years and serve on the Annual Banquet Committee. I have also been involved with the OQHA Long Term Planning, Finance, and Public Policy Committees. In addition, I am involved in the following Congress Committees: Animal Protection and Fire, Stall Move-In, VIP, and Awards. During the All American Quarter Horse Congress (AAQHC) I assist in selling tickets at the PBR event, the Freestyle Reining event.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA 1) Continued dedication to the long term planning for the OQHA and the All American Quarter Horse Congress including developing partnerships with local businesses and organizations to promote our growth, diversify our supporters and increase awareness of OQHA, AAQHC and the American Quarter Horse. 2) Collaborate with OQHA Youth to support and determine opportunities for growth, leadership and engagement of future generations. 3) Support and partner with the OQHA Foundation to ensure long-term prosperity of OQHA and the American Quarter Horse Industry both locally and nationally.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 15

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR 1ST VICE PRESIDENT : GEORGE SEANOR

OCCUPATION : I am currently the General Manager of The Ruhlin Company’s Industrial Division, responsible for the coordination of all construction activities, and earned my Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering f rom The Ohio State University.

Stark

County has been my home for my entire life where I live with my wife Pat on a small farm that we share with our horses and pets.

Current Involvement I am a life member of The Northern Ohio Quarter Horse Association, a past president and currently serve on the NOQHA Executive Committee. My wife and I have owned and shown quarter horses for the past 30 years.

Contribution to OQHA I have been an OQHA board member for 7 years serving on many committees. Currently I am a Congress Tri-Chairman, First Vice President, chairman of the executive committee and member of the Congress Trail, OQHA finance, rules, horse show advisory and long-range planning committees. As chairman of the building committee, I oversaw the renovations to OQHA’s headquarters. I have also been the Congress Trail Coordinator for the past 18 years. If elected I would contribute directly to the operations of OQHA, to Congress as Tri-Chairman, as well as serve on committees that I feel are important to the long-range success of OQHA: finance, rules, long range planning and horse show advisory.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA The 2021 Congress is behind us and its success was a result of hard work by the OQHA staff and Board of Directors. We faced unprecedented challenges this year and will continue to face challenges in 2022. Successfully navigating the challenges by the Board and Staff is critical to a successful 2022 Congress. It is important that we continue to strengthen OQHA financially, to involve qualified directors and staff to accomplish our goals.

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR 2ND VICE PRESIDENT : JUDD PAUL

OCCUPATION : Horse Trainer for IronGate Quarter Horses

Contribution to OQHA Current Involvement Have been 2nd Vice President for OQHA previously, currently on OQHA Executive Board. 25 years Training Horses

Have served on the board for over 12 years. Continue to help promote the quarter horse in Ohio. Make the Congress better.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA Get new people on the board. Promote our youth. New building for Congress.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 17

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : CYNTHIA BAUMAN

OCCUPATION : Owner of Creekside Horse Park

Contribution to OQHA Current Involvement I love to compete in Mountain Trail Challenges across the country. I Also enjoy trail riding and Ranch shows. I own 6 horses. I am a Director of OQHA, OAQHA and the President of PMT (Premier Mount N Trail).

I have ran the OQHA annual trail ride and challenge for the last 14 years, this coming summer will be the 15th year. I have brought Mt Trail to OQHA and even year end awards are given. I hope to grow Mt Trail even more, which in turn grows OQHA.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA The top 3 priorities for this coming year for me will be helping grow the OQHA membership, give a reason to become a member and give a reason to continue to stay with OQHA.

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : RICK CECIL

OCCUPATION : Horse Trainer

Current Involvement Rick Cecil grew up in the horse business and enjoyed a highly successful youth career winning the All-Around Youth in the Nation as well as Congress wins. Rick turned professional after his youth years were over. He opened his professional business, Rick Cecil Quarter Horses and has trained and coached many riders to Congress and World Champion wins as well as Honor Roll titles.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Contribution to OQHA Rick has served on numerous committees and would like to continue on the board in the same capacity. Top 3 Priorities for OQHA Financial Responsibility, Youth Development and Maintain the Congress.

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : SHAWN FLARIDA

OCCUPATION : Professional Horseman

Contribution to OQHA

Current Involvement A professional reining horse trainer based in Springfield, OH. I was inducted into the NRHA Hall of Fame in 2011 and active member of the OQHA.

I am a proud member of the OQHA. Being able to help contribute to the growth of our association through previous roles on the board, addressing challenges faced by our membership, and promoting the successful programs that the OQHA has to offer their members.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA Helping the OQHA with the growth of the Congress. Developing the future of our industry who can take on leadership roles not only in our organization but our broader associations as well. Being a listening ear & voice for our fellow members to help evolve our programs, grow & improve.

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : KYLE FLATTER

OCCUPATION : Horse Trainer

Contribution to OQHA

Current Involvement I run Flat Ridge Training Center where we specialize in all around horses. I am a member of AQHA’s Professional Horsemen’s Association and have served as the Vice President of EOQHA for the last 4 years.

I have been a director for OQHA for 6 years now. In this time, I have served on: professional horsemen’s committee, rules committee, annual awards, membership, horseshow advisory, and nomination’s committee along with several congress committees. Top 3 Priorities for OQHA As it has been in the past I believe our number one priority needs to be the Congress. Being the largest single breed horse show in the world is something the association has worked hard for and been proud of for many years.

With the new challenges that have faced us in the past two years, I think we need to be doing everything we can to keep the Congress as the prestigious event that it has been known as for years. Also I would like to see OQHA’s youth association continue to grow and the associations membership to increase. Over the last few years we have seen growth through including the trail riding and reining associations and would like to see us continue this trend with other Ohio affiliates.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 19

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : RON KENDLE

OCCUPATION : Real Estate Broker

Contribution to OQHA

Current Involvement Been in the equine industry with my daughter for about 13 years, served as a OQHA Director for the past 4 years. Also a current director for SOQHA, and sat on the board of directors for Dreams on Horseback for 10 years. Been involved with the OQHA foundation for the past 3 years.

Serving as a current OQHA Director, and have been for the past 4 years. Received the Presidents award in 2019, for working with others when needed throughout the year, and especially at the Congress. Help with VIP camping, move in committee Chairman, serve as the membership chairman, and on numerous committees to help with the Congress. Been involved with the OQHA foundation for the past 3 years, and assist with our Congress Cup golf outing.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA 1. Being creative in making the Congress better than ever before. 2. Listening to our trainers and members on how we can do better to serve as an organization. 3. Support our youth as they are our future in the industry.

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : ROGER LANDIS

OCCUPATION : I am co owner of North Farm Inc.

I stand Makin

Me Willy Wild and The Best Martini along with having a band of broodmares.

Contribution to OQHA Current Involvement AQHA judge for 30+ years. Director for Ohio Quarter Horse, currently serving as 2nd VP of OQHA. Chairman of the Ranch Horse Sale and Yearling Stakes Sale programs.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

I will continue to work on making the Sale programs not only successful but income generating for OQHA. I’ll continue to work for the betterment of OQHA as an industry icon.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA Bringing new people into the Quarter Horse world. Working to keep the Congress the #1 event. Reaching out to the youth in our industry.

CINDY MOREHEAD

OCCUPATION : I am retired f rom the University of Findlay where I taught in the Western Equestrian Program for 40 years. I was head coach of their

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR :

IHSA Equestrian Team f rom 2005-2017 achieving 4 National Championships and 4 Reserve National Championship Titles.

Contribution to OQHA Current Involvement I have been a long time director for OQHA. I also help my daughter with her IHSA and IEA teams when needed.

I am in charge of Animal Protection Fire and Safety and Commercial Exhibitors. I also help out with Hunter Jumper Warm-ups, NYATT Ceremonies, and anything else needing help, including early morning free donut delivery! Being retired, I feel it gives me time to help with different activities.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA 1. Congress - Keep working on facilities, scheduling, awards, promotions, vendors, exhibitors, and attendees. 2. Increasing Membership 3. Our Youth and Amateurs.

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : S A L LY P U Z AC K E

OCCUPATION : BUSINESS OWNER

Current Involvement

I started showing in the youth division (a few years ago), went to college and graduated with my MS in equine nutrition, trained and showed horses with my husband Jay and took over my family business in 2000. We have a booth at the Congress with our store. I also judge AQHA and APHA shows.

Contribution to OQHA I have been helping with classes and events at the Congress last year and had hoped to introduce new ideas for 2022.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA I hope with some new ideas, we can make the 2022 Congress the best ever.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 21

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : TODD SALOME OCCUPATION : Owner of Todd Salome Enterprises consisting of Lees Famous Recipe, Heritage Catering Salco Ltd. and Greenbrier Farm.

Contribution to OQHA I’ve been on the OQHA board for 15 years. I served as 2nd Vice President for 2 years and was on the Executive committee for 4 years. I have chaired

Current Involvement I showed in Youth and Amateur and was fortunate to place in the top 5 at the Congress, AQHA World Show, NSBA World and NSBA Breeders Cup in Western Pleasure. I serve on Newark Rotary, Salvation Army, Cattleman’s Association, Lees Advisory committee, The FOP, The Elks Lodge and The Newark Veterans Association.

and co chaired The Trail Ride where we have to today made it the largest AQHA sanctioned Trail Ride and Challenge in the Country for the last 5 years. I have also chaired the Nominating committee, Banquet, Fire and Safety, Opening Ceremonies, NYATT and move in day. I have served on the awards, food snd beverage, nominating, Rules, Security and professional horseman’s committees. Lisa Martin and myself created the Door decal advertising program that allows everyone advertising opportunities in key traffic locations that generates revenue for

OQHA. We have been running this program for 8 years and sell 40+ door decals a year.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA I believe the Congress is like a 3 piece suit. Without all 3 it won’t sell!!! The 3 pieces consist of exhibitors, sponsors and vendors, and spectators. 1. Reach out to our exhibitors. Show our appreciation and take care of them. Make them feel this is their favorite show. 2. Take care of our corporate sponsors, show sponsors and vendors. Make them feel special and try to cater to their needs. 3. Take care of the spectators. Offer 3 day weekend passes and drop the gate prices during the week. Try to get the 1 timers to come 2 or 3 times. Finally, continue to keep our show fresh with new ideas, media, Facebook and creativity.

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : ERIC WYERS OCCUPATION : VP Sales Tenda Horse Products

Current Involvement

many equestrian events, charities and

OQHA by giving back. My family has

facilities every year. We are also a

benefited from the OQHA in so many

Corporate Partner of the All American

ways and I look forward to lending a

Quarter Horse Congress.

hand wherever it is needed.

Contribution to OQHA I look forward to our continued

My daughter, Cora, and wife

sponsorship of the All American

Michelle, have been active in OQHA

Quarter Horse Congress and plan to

events for several years and I am the

bring some unique opportunities for

VP of Sales for Tenda Horse Products

the Congress to reach larger and more

which manufactures and sells equine

diverse audiences around the world.

care products and supports/sponsors

I also plan to contribute by helping

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA Growth of the OQHA Youth and Amateur programs. Continue to evolve and improve the Congress so that it remains the greatest show on earth.

OQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : JEFF GORE

OCCUPATION : WJG Management

Current Involvement Jeﬀ and his wife, Tera, along with their daughter, Emma, have been active in OQHA, AQHA and NSBA for several years. Jeﬀ’s past work experience includes 20 years in the manufacturing industry as a supervisor and maintenance technician. He currently owns and operates WJG Management, which is

Contribution to OQHA

Top 3 Priorities for OQHA

I look forward to our continued

1. My ﬁrst priority is to to use my

sponsorship in OQHA. As my daughter

knowledge to lend a hand with the

has many years left in the OQHA, I

OQHA anyway I can.

will enjoy having the time to give back to the association by volunteering at

2. Help increase sponsorships for the

events, dedicating my time where it is

OQHA by speaking with

needed at any of the OQHA shows and

business owners in order to explain the

sharing my expertise as a member and

merits of sponsorship for the OQHA.

parent. 3. Help with the sustained growth of

Irongate Quarter Horse cattle and calf

the OQHA in all avenues of the

business. Jeﬀ has numerous years of

organization.

experience with equine nutrition and livestock management.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 23

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Thank you for another great year! WWW.QUARTERHORSECONGRESS.COM

Ohio Quarter Horse News

2021 CONGRESS

54 Years Strong! #BetterTogether

Reining and Cutting exhibitors kicked off the nearly month-long event on September 28th bright and early. As exhibitors checked in at the Entry Office, hundreds of commercial exhibitors filled Congress Hall, Congress Hall Annex and Kasich Hall with boots, apparel, training gear, tack, and gifts while truck and trailer exhibitors covered every free space on the grounds for the Trade Show opening day on October 1st. The NRHA Level 4 and 3 Open Reining Futurity finals were the first headline event at the Quarter Horse Congress, with over $270,000 in purse money. The Level 4 Congress Champion was Brandon Brant, riding Starlight Flinn for Cynthia B Thiel, with a score of 225. Taking the Level 3 Champion title was Jacob Ballard and Scotch Myst, owned by Jake Ballard and Lesley Martin. The Congress Cutting Champions Challenge, presented by Cinch, helped round out opening weekend, with Haighly Addictive owned by JK Logan LLC

and ridden by Andrew Larsen of Harbor Springs, Michigan, taking home the Congress Champion title with a score of 144. The Non Pro Congress Cutting Champion title went to Terris Sugar Daddy, owned and ridden by Bret Wayne Parsons of Carlock, Illinois. Winning the Cutting Amateur division was Smoother Than Annie, owned and ridden by Christina Ocharzak of Hagerstown, Maryland. Taking home the Bridleless Congress Cutting Challenge Champion title was Smart Son Of A Doc, owned by Brenda A Stone and ridden by Andrew Sutliff of Leon, West Virginia. Throughout the month, the lecture and demonstration series gave attendees 17 different opportunities to learn from experts in the equine industry without leaving the grounds. The series successfully offered topics not typically covered in the equine show world.

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2021 Congress Queen - Darcy Woods On Saturday, October 9th, the Coliseum sold out again for Freestyle Reining, presented by dac. The open division champion was Benjamin Beckett, riding Xtra Dun Step owned by Jerry Douglas. Beckett had an amazing, upbeat routine outfitted with jorts (jean shorts) and a cut off beer t-shirt. He had friends outfitted in a similar manor with a beer pong table, keg, and red solo cups as props. He ended his performance by his friends getting chased out of the arena when the cops showed up, and him and Xtra Dun Step getting escorted out of the arena. Reserve champions in the open was Dan James with CCR Voodoo Star, owned by Christina Canter. Taking third place was Kevin Raber and Hollywood Hottime, owned by Roseanne M Richards and Kevin Raber. With 10 entries in the non pro, top honors were taken by Gunners Money, shown by owner Katsy M Leeman. Leeman competed with a 101 Dalmation-themed routine, even taking some time to pass out mini dalmations to the crowd. Reserve champion in the non pro was Cappy Dryden and Wranglin For Chicks, owned by Bur Oak LLC. Third place

The open division champion was Benjamin Beckett, riding Xtra Dun Step owned by Jerry Douglas.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

went to Emily L Lacey and her horse Whiz Bye Gollie.The 2021 Congress Queen was also crowned during the intermission of the event, with Darcy Woods from Ontario Quarter Horse Association being crowned! The Congress Masters, presented by The Equine Chronicle and Cinch, rounded out the special events on October 23rd where Made Like No Other, shown by Kenneth D Lakins Jr for Mr & Mrs William M Wilkes won the 2021 Congress Masters Western Pleasure Champion title. Kenny was presented with a check for $25,000! Pick Me Tonight, ridden by Allison McDonald and owned by Gary Wasson, took home the Congress Champion title for the 2021 Congress Masters Hunter Under Saddle. Allison was presented with a check for $15,000! Thank you to everyone who continues to support the All American Quarter Horse Congress and to all Ohio members who take the time to compete and visit. We look forward to having you in 2022!

The non pro division champion was Gunners Money, shown by owner Katsy M Leeman.

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2021 TOP SELLER: Im Sharp By Freckles

Ohio Quarter Horse News

2021 Overall Ranch Horse Sale: 58 horses 2021 Average Ranch Horse Sale Price: $16,296.00 Gross Actual Sales $651,850

A large crowd of buyers and spectators attended the first Congress Ranch Horse Sale held October 2, 2021 with the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Columbus, Ohio, produced by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association. The High Selling horse was Lot 23 in the Sale, Im Sharp By Freckles, bringing a price of $35,000 from Rona Shapiro of Canal Winchester, Ohio. Jessica Bunch from Robards, KY consigned and presented the fancy Paint gelding. Other High Sellers include Lil Coded Jac, an AQHA gelding, fetching a price of $33,000 from Jane S. Fisher, NY for consignor Cooper Smith Show Horses, TX; Miss Bonnie Jac, a Palomino AQHA mare, sold for $30,500 to Buddy Vaughn, OH for Consignor Lynch Performance Horses; Sunset Acres Eclipse, a Friesian Sport gelding brought $30,000 from Jane Bistline, FL for seller Daniel Miller, OH and Katie Chex Your Gun, a double registered AQHA and APHA mare, also sold for $30,000 to Jeff and Jenny Honey, AR, for consignor Cooper Smith Quarter Horses, TX. Forty horses sold to new owners through the Sale with the top five selling for an average price of $31,700, the top ten averaged $28,200 and the average for all horses sold was $16,296. The Congress Ranch Horse Sale offered a variety of high-quality Ranch, Trail and Family horses, as well as proven Reining, Cutting and Roping show horses and prospects. The offering included Quarter Horses, Paints, Friesian cross and some very special ponies. Full Sale Results can be found on ProHorseServices.com under “What’s the Scoop?” as well as links to watch the sale and preview webcasts and access the sale catalog. Go to: https://prohorseservices.com/ The sale was managed for the Ohio Quarter Horse Association by Mike and Stephanie Jennings of Professional Horse Services, LLC of Round Hill, Virginia.

Sold to: Amy Moon, Virginia Sold by: Brett and Heather Caplinger, OH High Seller is Hip 62 - MAKE N MONEY for $62,000

Ohio Quarter Horse News

2021 Overall Super Sale: 119 horses 2021 Average Super Sale Price: $12,744.44 Gross Actual Sales $917,600

Hunter Under Saddle Yearling Sale Stakes High Seller “The 55th Annual Congress Super Sale showed very strong results compared to recent years,” announces Mike Jennings of the auction management, Professional Horse Services, LLC. “The 2021 average price on horses that were sold to new owners was $12,744.44, which is up 35% from $8,371 for the last live auction held in 2019.”

Hip # 95 – RHF HOT N FANCY $20,000

The Congress Super Sale is held with the All American Quarter Horse Congress produced by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association The main feature of the Congress Super Sale is the Yearling Sale Stakes sessions for Western Pleasure and Hunter Under Saddle prospects. These yearlings can be eligible for the lucrative 2-year-old Sale Stakes classes which will be held at the 2022 All American Quarter Horse Congress. The Western Pleasure Sale Stakes classes are offered as Open and Non Pro divisions. The Hunter Under Saddle Sale Stakes class is shown as one 2-year-old Open class. The purse is developed by nomination fees paid at the sale for each yearling to be nominated Sale Stakes classes plus money added by the Ohio Quarter Horses Association. An additional purse of $10,000 is added to the Western Sale Stakes classes by OQHA, to be paid to the three highest placing Limited riders in each class, with $6,000 going to the Open class and $4,000 paid in the Non Pro class. Additional purse money of $2,500 is added to the Hunter Under Saddle class by Stephanie and Mike Jennings of Professional Horse Services, LLC, with $1,000 added to the overall purse and $1,500 paid to the top two highest placing Limited riders. The Sale Stakes classes pay some of the highest purses of the show. Complete results can be viewed or downloaded at the Professional Horse Services website on the Congress Super Sale Page: https://prohorseservices.com/2021/2021-congress-super-sale/

Super Session High Selling Horse

Hip # 119 – TEN FOUR ROGER THAT $16,500

Rod’s Trophy Saddle Award

STONE CODE FOX Purchased by Chris Gray for Christinna Murphy SELLER: University of Findlay

CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

OPEN

Ohio Quarter Horse News

5. Algorhythm | Miranda Rogers Schaefer | Miranda Rogers Schaefer | Pleasant Plain, OH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

| Cedar, MI

OPEN

Thompson | San Angelo, TX 12. Who Said Im Lazy | Karen M Hornick | Jamie P McWhinney

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

OPEN

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

OPEN

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

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2. Invest N The Best | Randy R Wilson | Big Rock Farms LLC | Burlington, NC

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

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LEVEL 1 AMT SELECT

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

Bellville, OH

LEVEL 1 AMT SELECT

Amateur Grand Champion Stallions 6. Premos Fearles Tease | Whitney Nicole Soller | David B Eller | Marysville, OH

Ohio Quarter Horse News

AMATEUR | NON PRO

5. DFFRENCHMANSSANDLADY | Tiffany J Derr | Tiffany J Derr | Wharton, OH

8. DFVINCESCHICKSONFIRE | Tiffany J Derr | Tiffany J Derr | Wharton, OH

Amateur 2 Yr Old Geldings 8. Colluzion | Benjamin A Taylor | Brenda M Anderson | Marengo, OH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

Groveport, OH

Amateur Showmanship 9. Whenitcomestoluck | Hailey A Flatter | Hailey A Flatter | Mishawaka, IN

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

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OH 12. Blue In A Minute | Tina McElroy | Tina McElroy | Rome, OH

Wiseman | Beaver, OH 11. Only A Dream Machine | Kathryne K Zachrich | Kathryne K Zachrich | Delaware, OH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

NSBA Amateur Select Trail 3. Moonlight Potential | Laura Ann Salome | Todd Salome | Buckeye Lake, OH

NSBA Amateur Select Working Hunter 5. Dancin N The Dirt | Terrie Brewer Booth | Sandy Vargo | Plain City, OH

Amateur Select Horsemanship 8. My Sweet Assets | Cheryl Kolb | Reed Alan Kolb | Lebanon, OH

Ohio Quarter Horse News

TWO-PART RANCH SERIES WINNERS

For the first time ever, three owners of open horses competing in the Open Working Western Rail at the Farnam AQHA World and Adequan® Select World in Oklahoma City, and the Ranch Rail Stakes at the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Columbus, Ohio, earned a portion of $10,000 in added money, courtesy of Headley Quarter Horses. The highest cumulative point earner in the two-part Open Working Western Rail Series was Fancy Blue Roo owned by Courtney Dobbs Clagg of Gastonia, North Carolina. The 2009 gray gelding by Gallo Del Cielo and out of MM Fancy Figure was bred by Linda Mars of Jackson, Wyoming. Fancy Blue Roo was shown by AQHA Professional Horseman Steve Meadows and earned $5,000 for Clagg. Second was Cash Mi In owned by Debbie Kuffer from Quakertown, Pennsylvania, and bred by John Covington of Frisco, Texas. Shannon Quinlan showed the 2016 bay gelding by Lil Joe Cash and out of Mi Mega and secured a $3,000 check for Kuffer. The third high-point earner was Spook Dot Gun owned by Linda Wiebe of Galesburg, Michigan. Spook Dot Gun is a 2012 sorrel gelding by Smart Spook and out of Sugar Dot Gun and was bred by Deborah Strahman of New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Matt Lantz showed the gelding and the pair earned $2,000 for Wiebe.

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

EWD Walk/Trot Hunter Under Saddle - Independent 1. Ie Flying Legacy | Sara Grace Carowick | Cindy M Novak | Vienna, OH

NSBA EWD Walk/Jog Trail - Independent 13. Gorgeous In Gray | Amy Lynne Firgau | Linda S Thornsley | Canal Winchester, OH

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NSBA EWD Walk/Trot Hunter Under Saddle Independent 1. Ie Flying Legacy | Sara Grace Carowick | Cindy M Novak | Vienna, OH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

LEVEL 1 YOUTH Dorsey | Powell, OH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

7. Caughtupintheseirons | Greer Dixon | Greer Dixon | Upper Arlington, OH

YOUTH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

YOUTH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

YOUTH

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

YOUTH

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SMALL FRY

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CONGRESS SUCCESS Congratulations to all of the OQHA Members

NYATT

13. Busybeingmyvalentine | Ryan Jay Mau | Ryan Jay Mau | Gahanna, OH

NYATT Showmanship 3. Mr Slo Mo Amegio | Shelby Dale | Shelby Dale | Findlay, OH

NSBA NYATT Hunter Under Sadd 5. PSU Willy Impulsive | Amanda Bloomberg | Amanda Bloomberg | Twinsburg, OH

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Ohio NYATT Team Finished 2nd in the Division 1 Competition Youth from state and regional Quarter Horse associations across the U.S. and Canada gathered for the largest National Youth Team Tournament in the world at the All American Quarter Horse Congress Sunday, October 17th. This year’s National Youth Activity Team Tournament (NYATT) hosted 41 teams and offers two divisions of competition. Division I teams are entered in eight to fourteen NYATT classes while Division II teams are entered in one to seven NYATT classes. This split is only for the awards ceremony so that each division competes for separate top ten division awards. Each team may consist of 1-14 riders, with no more than two members competing in each of the seven NYATT classes: Barrel Racing, Horsemanship, Hunt Seat Equitation, Hunter Under Saddle, Reining, Showmanship and Western Pleasure. To determine overall team standings, points are awarded for each individual’s efforts in every class, with first place receiving 10 points, second place nine points, and so on. In the Division I, the Ohio Quarter Horse Association NYATT team claimed the second spot with 70 points behind Indiana QH Youth Association, who earned 76 total points. Southern Ohio QHA took 6th place with 51 total points and Northern Ohio QHA placed 10th with 27 points. In the third year of Division II, the Rocky Mountain QHA team earned first place honors with 32 points, while Texas QHA took second with 29 points and Southern Carolina QHA took third with 28 points. Eastern Ohio QHA finished in fourth place with 20 total points.

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AFFILIATES Buckeye Reining Series Eastern Ohio Quarter Horse Association Mid Ohio Dressage Association Northern Ohio Quarter Horse Association Ohio Amateur Quarter Horse Association Ohio Buckskin Association Ohio Michigan Indiana Quarter Horse Association Ohio Quarter Horse Youth Association Premier Mount N Trail Association Southern Ohio Quarter Horse Association

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Congratulations to everyone that did well at Congress, it was so wonderful to have it back. Watch for details of our year end banquet. It will again be held in conjunction with the Ohio Quarter Horse Association banquet. Check the website for 2022 show dates. Stall and RV reservations will be available after February 1. Membership applications will be available on website also.

It’s hard to believe that 2021 is coming to an end. It was a year full of change, excitement and most of all memories. OMIQHA would once again like to thank its members, exhibitors, sponsors, board of directors and all of the show personnel -judges, stewards, scribes, gate crew to arena crew, office crew and everyone that assists in making a show happen for everything you have done, everything you still do and for what you have yet to do in making our organization a success. As we finish up 2021, we want to recognize OMIQHA Queen Kalee Lohr who was unable to participate in the 2021 All American Quarter Horse Congress Queen contest due to hospitalization. Although we were disappointed no one was more disappointed than Kalee. Kalee we are proud to have you as our Queen. 2021 NYATT results rewarded our youth participants with a 10th place finish. Congratulations to this exceptional group of youth! We are finalizing our year end standings, and due to the uncertainty of the continued pandemic there will not be a 2021 in person banquet. We will be contacting award winners soon regarding awards. We are also diligently working on the 2022 shows. The Warm-Up Show is scheduled for March 25th - 27th 2022 and the Summer Sunsation Show is scheduled for June 10th -12th, 2022. We look forward to another great year!!

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We had a great season with PMT (Premier Mount N Trail). 4 different parks participated from Ohio, Maryland, and Michigan. Everyone worked very hard all season long. We all can’t wait for next year already! Huge thank you to the 4 parks that participated in the program: 1. Double C Farm, Clarksburg, Maryland 2. Holland Western Saddle Club, Holland, Michigan 3. Creekside Horse Park, Waynesburg, Ohio 4. Spencer Trail Park, Spencer, Ohio. Our Top Riders for the Season are: Chase Baumberger Youth 1 In Hand & Riding and Youth 2 In Hand.. Sidney Hawk Youth 3 In Hand. Caitlin Burke Youth 2 & 3 Riding. Lisa Schell Rookie In Hand & Riding. Victoria Nowak Adult 1 In Hand and Open 1 In Hand. Morgan Hederstedt adult 2 In Hand and Open 3 In Hand. Beth Meyer Open 1 Riding. Heidi Daughtery Adult 1, 2 & 3 Riding, Adult 3 In Hand, Open 2 In Hand & Riding, Open 3 Riding. We are looking forward to seeing everyone at the PMT banquet held the 3rd weekend of January and the OQHA banquet the 1st Saturday for February. See our website for details and next year’s schedule.

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SOQHA Youth NYATT Team was very excited to finish 6th overall in the Division 1 Team competition.

Rock Stars of the 2021 Team are: Shelby Dale 3rd NYATT Showmanship Haley Kilgore 8th NYATT Barrels Kennedy Dorsey 9th NYATT Horsemanship Haley Turner 9th NYATT Reining Kami Kile 9th NYATT Barrels Kendall McClintock 10th NYATT Horsemanship Ryan Mau 13th NYATT Reining

We are excited to announce dates for our 2022 shows. The Challenge February 25-27 at The Champions Center in Springfield. The Pre Madness & Madness May 6-8 & 10-15 at WEC in Wilmington. Get your stall reservations in early!!

OQHYA NYATT finished 2nd in the Division 1 Team competition! Many thanks to our sponsors: Rod Patrick Boots Good Ride Cinch Haala Jeans Kathy Speck Designs Schneider’s

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Mid-Ohio Dressage Association

Mid Ohio Dressage Association (MODA) hosted an AQHA Dressage Special Event on August 29 at the Fairgrounds in Delaware, Ohio. Held as part of the organization’s East Meets West schooling show, this event offered both non-USEF Classical and Western (WDAA) dressage for quarter horse exhibitors.

On the AQHA Classical side, Corinthia Shupp showed her 2002 gelding Count Me Blessed in Training Level, while Stacy Westfall exhibited her 2019 Third Level AQHA high point dressage winner I Can Can I, in Fourth Level. In the AQHA Western events, 25-year-old Daddy Knows Beau and Marianne Webber showed in Basic. Marianne and ‘Flex’ have been partners for 21 years and added dressage points to his impressive AQHA lifetime show record. Also, in the AQHA western division was MODA member, Kristin Patton who was 2019 AQHA High Point Adult Amateur in First Level Classical Dressage with Swingin For Money. For the August 29 AQHA Western Special Event, Kristin changed saddles and showed her talented stallion Smokin Custom Crome in Level 2 western. Rounding out the AQHA entrants were Kimberly Bundridge in Level 2 with Made By Mercedes. The duo often compete at the AQHA shows in ranch riding, as well as in reining. Jesse Westfall and his reiner, A Vintage Jewel, made their dressage debut in Basic and scored a 74.25. The winner of the High Average Award in the AQHA (Western or Classical) portion of East Meets West was MODA member, Karen Kent, exhibiting LoLo (photo credit Reality Studios). Scoring an average of 72.763 in the western Basic Level; Lolo is a 2006 mare (Chips Hot Chocolate/Slippery Asset) and is owned by Steve Kent. Planning is currently underway for the 2022 show season. Watch the OQHA website for 2022 opportunities with quarter horses in dressage.

The Ohio Amateur Quarter Horse Association had a busy October! Our members, directors & officers were busy with Congress preparations & showing. Aside from the normal show prep activities, they took time to plan & execute the ever-popular donut cart in the mornings. Joined by Cox Concessions and a number of generous sponsors, we spent Sweetest Day with a pancake breakfast for everyone to benefit St Jude’s Children’s Hospital. We had some celebrity pancake flippers, tons of photo ops, and lots of great toppings. No one left hungry, that was for sure! Between donations, pancake sales, and sponsors, we were able to raise $3,350 for the cause! While Congress may be over by the time you’re reading this, our directors & officers are busy planning The Little Buckeye show & other fun events for 2022. Make sure to check out the new Facebook & Instagram pages for announcements & details!

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O H I O Q U A R T E R H O R S E A S S O C I AT I O N

February 5, 2022 HILTON DOWNTOWN  401 N HIGH ST, COLUMBUS, OH 43215 RESERVATION: 6143848600 RESERVE HOTEL ROOMS BY JANUARY 15

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Three Course Sit-Down Dinner

$45 - Adult

$40 - Youth

No Charge - Age 5 & Under

Please choose your entree from the below options #___________

Pistachio-Crusted Salmon With Whole Grain Mustard Cream, Duchess Potatoes and Herb Roasted Carrots

Center Cut Filet Mignon

#___________

With Mushroom Veal Jus, Duchess Potatoes and Herb Roasted Carrots

Herb Roasted Amish Chicken

#___________

With Duchess Potatoes and Herb Roasted Carrots

Cheese Tortellini Three Cheese Tortellini with Arugula Pesto Sauce and Toasted Walnuts

#___________

Name: _________________________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________City, State, Zip: _________________________________ E-Mail: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ #________ Youth Dinners at $40 $________

#________ Adult Dinners at $45 $________

#________ Children under 5

Total $______________ If reserving a table, please indicate the persons who will be seated with you (each table seats 10 people). No reservations will be held without payment. No fax or phone reservations will be accepted.

____________________________________________

___________________________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________________________

____________________________________________

___________________________________________

____________________________________________

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____________________________________________

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Please make checks payable to OQHA and send to OQHA, Attn: Carey Cooper 6325 Quarter Horse Drive | Columbus, OH 43229 Reservations must be received by January 28, 2022

The Ohio Quarter Horse Association

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION/RENEWAL Name: __________________________________________________________________________ AQHA # ____________________________ Name must appear exactly as on your AQHA membership.

Address: _________________________________________________________________ Year Membership Desired: 20_________

City:_____________________________ State: _____________ Zip Code: ____________ Phone: (_______) ______________________ E-mail: ________________________________________________________________

Check Membership Type: *Both horse owner and exhibitor must be current members to receive points $25 Open Adult Membership $20 Amateur Adult Membership- Birthdate: ______/______/______ $15 Youth Membership- Birthdate: ______/______/______

$60 Family Membership * (please complete Family Information below)

$250 Life Membership (Youth or Adult)

I would like to: $_______ Donate to the Ohio Quarter Horse Foundation Scholarship Fund $_______ Donate to the Ohio Quarter Horse Foundation Crisis Fund $_______ Donate to the Ohio Quarter Horse Foundation Equine Welfare $ _____________ Total (amount enclosed/and or charged)

Please mark if you would like to receive the Horseman’s Corral

Payment Method:

Check/Money order enclosed

Visa/Master Card/American Express/ Discover

Fees are the discount for cash and check paying customers. Credit card charges will require a 3% convenience fee.

Credit Card #:

Exp. Date:

Signature:

Security Code:

* Complete This Section For Family Memberships Only Name

Membership

Relation

must appear exactly as on your AQHA membership Open/Youth/Amateur

________________________________ ____________ ________________________________ ____________ ________________________________ ____________ ________________________________ ____________

Birthdate

AQHA #

E-mail

___________ ___________ ___________ _________________________________ ___________ ___________ ___________ _________________________________ ___________ ___________ ___________ _________________________________ ___________ ___________ ___________ _________________________________

Please view the OQHA Rule Book online at OQHA.COM

Send completed form and payment to:

OQHA / Attn: Membership 6325 Quarter Horse Drive • Columbus, OH 43229 info@oqha.com • 614-505-7200 Fax: 614-505-3490

Please note: OQHA memberships are not valid until payment is received. Memberships are on a calendar year basis and will expire December 31st of the year joined. Memberships must be received in the OQHA office by September 1st of the current year for voting privileges. No memberships will be accepted over the phone.

OQHA QUEEN CANDIDATES CANDIDATE FOR 2022 OQHA QUEEN : ELLEXXAH MAXWELL

EDUCATION : I recently earned my Associates Degree in Arts with a Specialization in Business Management.

OCCUPATION: I run my own Professional Banding Business. As well as work part-time for OQHA and Rod’s

Accomplishments: AQHA All Around Youth 6x 10+ Congress Champion 4x AQHA Reserve World Champion 2x AQHA Bronze Champion 2x NSBA World Champion 2x NSBA Reserve World Champion 4x Congress All Around Champion AQHA Highest Point Earning Youth Horse AQHA Highest Point Earning Horse All Divisions

What makes you unique/sets you apart? I have been involved with OQHA since I was 7. I served several years on the OQHYA board as well as the EOQHYA board. I have lived in the horse world my entire life and have had the honor of traveling all over the world. Outside of the horse world I have a black belt in martial arts. I would use my long time knowledge of our association and the workings of the industry to my advantage. I look forward to seeing the future of the industry and try to be a part of our evolving association.

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2021 OFFICERS Heather Duer Lee Heighton

1st Vice President (2/20)

Kelly Rauschenbach 2nd Vice President (2/20)

Michelle Ceschan Secretary (2/20)

Ellexxah Maxwell Reporter (2/20)

Scott Nemeth Past President

Director Until February 2022 Ellexxah Maxwell Kirsten Nickles

Director Until February 2023 Cynthia Bauman Greg Bauman Hanna Hedderick Sara Oler

Director Until February 2024 Anna Trucco Amanda Moore Cris Martin Andrea Martin

Director Until February 2025 Jeff Iatonna Alexis Ziemak Karmon Dorsey

8484Ohio Ohio Quarter Quarter Horse Horse News News

2021 OAQHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OAQHA President (2/20)

OFFICER & DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS

During the September Ohio Amateur Quarter Horse Association monthly Board of Directors meeting, nominations were made for the 2022 election slate. Nominations were announced by the nominating committee, and are as follows:

OAQHA Nominees

2022 OAQHA

President Heather Duer 1st Vice President Lee Heighton 2nd Vice President Kelly Rauschenbach Treasurer Kaitlin Riker Secretary Michelle Ceschan Reporter Ellexxah Maxwell

Directors Karmon Dorsey Kimberly Hill

Jeff Iatonna Alexis Ziemak

Voting Procedure • Election ballots will be mailed in December. • Officers: Vote for one candidate per office. • Directors: Vote for at least 4 and no more than 6 directors for ballot to be counted. • One ballot per return envelope. • Ballots must be received by January 28th. Ballots should be mailed to: Ohio Quarter Horse Association 6325 Quarter Horse Drive Columbus, OH 43229

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OAQHA Nominees

C A ND I DATES CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT : HEATHER DUER

EDUCATION : I hold a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering f rom Fenn College of Engineering at Cleveland State University and a Master of Business Administration f rom CSU’s Monte Ahuja College of Business.

OCCUPATION : Strategic Account Manager in the North American Dispersions & Resins business unit of BASF.

Current Involvement

Contribution to OAQHA

I became involved with OQHA on and

As President I intend to continue to

off throughout my late teens and early

help promote and grow our

twenties. I’ve been a Director, 1st Vice

organization and the interests of the

President, and am currently the

members and exhibitors. This year we

President of OAQHA.

are focused on giving back to our 600+ amateur members in various new ways.

My mother-in-law runs a non-profit youth boating education program, Spirit of America. I assist her on an as needed basis with everything from fundraising to planning and executing their training programs. I am a lifetime member of OQHA, NOQHA, SOQHA, EOQHA and OMIQHA.

Increase & Retain Membership Membership is waning in many different activities, not just equine ones. To retain and increase membership you must give members and exhibitors a reason to participate, a reason to care and a reason to come back. For some that will mean adding incentives, sponsors, and new classes to our shows, for others it will be increasing educational and service opportunities.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA OQHA should build on its strong show foundation, while growing its amateur membership base and expanding service to Ohio communities.

VICE PRESIDENT : LEE HEIGHTON

EDUCATION : I hold an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice and completed the Michigan State University School of

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR 1ST

Staff and Command.

OCCUPATION : Assigned Claims and Special Investigation Unit Manager leading a team of Private Investigators focusing on auto insurance f raud.

Current Involvement

Contribution to OAQHA

I joined OQHA in 2017 and last year

As 2nd Vice President, I have been

served as the 2nd Vice President for

active in assisting the other leadership

the OAQHA.

in continuing to improve our responsiveness to the members of

I served as a Director on the North

OAQHA, along with exploring different

American Flyball Association for

ways to promote our organization and

approximately 12 years and was the

the sport in general.

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA The first priority should be to find different ways to give back to the competitors. This will lead to the second and third priorities. Keeping the current members, while increasing the number of new competitors that choose to join OQHA.

Executive Director until leaving the organization to pursue my equine passion.

Increase & Retain Membership We need to continue our efforts to create incentives for being a member of the OQHA. There are a number of competitors who live and compete in Ohio, without becoming members of OQHA. We should continue to explore options to bring these competitors into the OQHA family.

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OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR 2ND VICE PRESIDENT : K E L LY R AU S C H E N B AC H

EDUCATION : I hold a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration f rom Youngstown State University.

OCCUPATION : I am an accountant with a small public accounting f irm in Howland, OH.

Current Involvement

Contribution to OAQHA

I have been a member of OQHA for

As a Director or acting 2nd Vice

over 10 years, but most recently served

President I am motivated and excited

as a Director and most recently acting

to work behind the scenes of the Little

2nd Vice President with OAQHA for

Buckeye horse show and the Pancake

2021. I am head of the awards

Breakfast, while working to expand our

committee where we were able to give

outreach to other Ohio amateurs.

away over $35,000 in prizes thanks to our generous sponsors. I am also currently on the committee for the Pancake Breakfast held at Congress that supports St. Jude. I am a member of SOQHA, EOQHA, OQHA, and planning to join NOQHA for 2022. I am also a member of the Ohio society of CPAs.

Increase & Retain Membership To increase and retain OQHA membership we need to market the perks of being an OQHA member and create a welcoming incentive to join OQHA. At this years Pancake Breakfast we plan to have OQHA membership encourage everyone to join one of the best associations.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

OQHA should encourage each subdivision (EOQHA, NOQHA, SOQHA, OAQHA) to work together to make all the shows a success, encourage new members to join by incentivizing the membership, and get more involved in supporting other Ohio equine

forms available for everyone and will

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA

disciplines and community events.

KAITLIN RIKER

EDUCATION : I hold a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences f rom

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR TREASURER :

THE Ohio State University

OCCUPATION : Category & Financial Planning Director at Victoria’s Secret & Co.

Current Involvement Currently the organizations treasurer, running for re-election and previously a

Contribution to OAQHA As Treasurer, I intend to continue to help promote and protect the

Director for the Amateur organization.

organizations financial positioning to

I actively participate in Pelotonia, an

and for years to come.

support our Amateur exhibitors today

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA OQHA should build on its strong show foundation via engagement with exhibitors, making Ohio the best place to show. Protect Amateur’s time and money as vital resources – supporting

annual fund-raiser and bike ride to

shows that are time-sensitive and cost

support cancer research at The Ohio

efficient. Work with organizations

State University Wexner Medical Center. Since I started riding, my husband and I have raised +$30k.

Increase & Retain

across the industry to build new and

Membership

forward with tradition

exciting partnerships as progress walks

Recruit new and retain existing amateur members by developing a fun and welcoming culture within the organization. This takes every individual to exhibit sportsmanship win, lose, or draw and engage with new individuals to usher them into our organization.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 89

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR SECRETARY : MICHELLE CESCHAN

EDUCATION : I graduated f rom Robert Morris University (Moon Twp, PA) with a triple degree in Public Relations, Corporate Communications & Media Arts

OCCUPATION : My primary employment is with National Interstate Insurance as a Senior Business Development Representative in their Specialty Commercial Truck Department. I own/ operate Hold It! Equestrian alongside my husband, which offers magnetic number holders for all types of exhibitors & powder coat items.

Current Involvement

Contribution to OAQHA

I’ve been a member & exhibitor for

I stepped in as Secretary, and took

a. Membership support

several years, I came on board to

on the role of heading sponsorships

b. Alignment of resources

OAQHA in 2021 as a board member &

for our show. I also have stepped in

c. Giving back to the Ohio Quarter

Secretary.

as News Reporter with the change in

Horse community & organizations

officers recently, and look forward to I am also on the board of NOQHA.

continuing to support our members,

Aside from that, I am an avid supporter

sponsors, and board members the best

of many organizations through Hold It!

way I can.

Equestrian.

Increase & Retain Membership There have been a lot of new ideas & discussions of incentives this year with board members, and I am excited to bring them to fruition with board approval.

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA

Ohio Quarter Horse News

ELLEXXAH MAXWELL

EDUCATION : I recently earned my Associates Degree in Arts with a Specialization

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR REPORTER :

in Business Management.

OCCUPATION : I run my own Professional Banding Business. As well as work part-time for OQHA and Rod’s

Current Involvement I’ve been involved with OQHA since I was 6. I served on the OQHYA Board for several years. Serving as their Director, Reporter, Vice President, and President. I am currently serving as a Director for the OAQHA Board.

Contribution to OAQHA I look to continue to bring a new outlook to our association. I am a more recent amateur and I think it is in the best interest to our association that we continue to evolve and change just as our industry does.

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA OQHA needs to continue to evolve and make changes in an ever changing industry to stay up to date on doing the best we can for our members, We also need try and be more inclusive in our vast majority of members. We have such a large member base with so little

I am involved with our other state associations as well such as EOQHA, SOQHA, NOQHA, and IQHA. I previously served for AQHYA and found a love for giving back to those in need. I donate to food drives and clothing drives whenever I can.

Increase & Retain

of it really involved. Finally we need to

Membership

in what we do. The majority of our

I always believe that we need to continue to draw new membership in. However I think that this is a much easier task when we give back to the members that give so much to us and

make sure that fun is always included members do horses as a hobby or a getaway from everyday life so we need to ensure that they enjoy their time with us and want to come back time and time again.

give them a reason to encourage new and current members to get more involved. We need to make sure our membership knows just how much impact they can have on the future of our association.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 91

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : KARMON DORSEY

EDUCATION : I hold a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering f rom Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio.

OCCUPATION : Real Estate Broker at The Windsor Companies

Current Involvement

Contribution to OAQHA

I became involved with OQHA 5 years

As a Director, I plan on helping on as

ago when my kids started showing.

many committees as I can and offering support to the group as a whole.

I am a founding member of Horsepower for Heroes, a non-profit that provides alternative solutions to veterans for the treatment of PTSD and reintegration to civilian life with a holistic approach to mental and physical health through horses and horsepower.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA -membership -successful show -fundraising

K I M B E R LY H I L L

EDUCATION : I hold a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education f rom Miami University in Oxford, Ohio

and

I have started the Master of Arts in

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR :

Education (MAE) program at Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio. I also have a K-12 Reading Endorsement.

OCCUPATION : I hold a PreK-3 license for education and currently teach preschool for the River View LSD.

Current Involvement I became involved with OQHA throughout my youth career. Then, I took a brief break when I went away to undergrad. I am now a Director of OAQHA and I could not be more excited!! I have been a Director and Youth Advisor for EOQHA since 2018. I assist with EOQHA’s NYATT team and calculate the Youth Points. I am also a member of SOQHA. In 2019, I represented EOQHA as their Queen Candidate at the All American Quarter Horse Congress. I was thrilled to be able to make EOQHA so proud by placing in the top ten in all categories which included WINNING the Queens Horsemanship.

Contribution to OAQHA As a Director of OQHA, I intend to help promote and grow the association with the other officers and directors. I also am very eager to work and help out at our shows while also interacting with other members and exhibitors.

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA OQHA’s top three priorities over the next 2-3 years should include: exploring new ways to give back to current members, grow our membership, and continue to improve The Little Buckeye each year.

Increase & Retain Membership I think a great way to increase and retain OQHA membership is through creating a welcoming environment. It is important for members and exhibitors to feel comfortable and invited. OQHA has done a great job in the past establishing a fun atmosphere at their shows as well as offering great incentives and awards.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 93

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : JEFF IATONNA

EDUCATION : I hold a Bachelors in business f rom The Ohio State University and a Master of business f rom Franklin University.

Current Involvement I am currently an OAQHA director. I have been the chair of the exhibitor party sub committee for the past 3 years.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

Increase & Retain Membership By focusing on new programs to engage our membership.

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA Increasing and maintaining membership, engaging exhibitors and giving back to members.

ALEXIS ZIEMAK

EDUCATION : I hold a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Biology with a

OAQHA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR :

pre-med focus f rom Ohio University.

OCCUPATION : Superintendent for Bridgeport Custom Homes.

Current Involvement I became involved with OQHA as I was transitioning from youth to amateur. I showed at Ohio shows periodically as a youth but more as an amateur. I have been an active member in SOQHA and currently serve as the secretary. I was the SOQHA Queen for 2020/2021. I was a member and director of OQH Racing Association for a few years and was the Queen in

Contribution to OAQHA I was the chairman of the Pancake Breakfast Committee. We had an extremely successful breakfast and were able to write a check to St. Jude for $3,350.00. In the future I would like to get more

for a free stall, prize to the biggest sponsor, etc. Make being a “sponsor” a reward not just them writing another check. Draw people in with what we can offer them and make them want to return year after year.

Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA

active with the horse show committee.

I feel running a successful horse show

Make the horse show more exhibitor

should be number 1. We need to

friendly and try to increase the number

continue to increase exhibitor

of exhibitors.

numbers, increase sponsors and increase smiles around the arena.

2018.

Increase & Retain

I feel increasing membership should

Membership

many members to help make the horse

Membership is important when it comes to organizations, proves that people are dedicated to supporting us. With that, I believe it is important to return the favor to our members. Everyone loves a horse show that is exhibitor friendly. Free random giveaways, exhibitor dinners, drawings

be number 2. You can never have too show and organization a success. I feel helping out our own should be number 3. We are Ohio Amateur Quarter Horse Association so having incentives that will benefit amateurs will draw people in and back to our shows and events.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 95

Alexa Black President

Grant Mastin Vice President

Emma Wirtz Secretary

Alexia Tordoff

Kennedy Dorsey

Treasurer

Mason Dorsey

Bella D’Onofrio

Courtney Hilty

Reporter

Jilian Jefferson Kami Kile Kassidy Lammers Marina Marotto Kendall McClintock Addison Nalle-Icenhour Aviana Nemeth Clara Nemeth Blaise Runyon

9696Ohio Ohio Quarter Quarter Horse Horse News News

2021 OQHYA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2021 OFFICERS

OFFICER & DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS

OQHYA Nominees

2022 OQHYA

During the September Ohio Quarter Horse Youth Association monthly Board of Directors meeting, nominations were made for the 2022 election slate. Nominations are as follows: President Isabella D’Onofrio Emma Wirtz Vice President Grant Mastin Secretary Blaise Runyon Treasurer N/A Reporter Kennedy Dorsey Carolyn Craddock Isabella Hamilton

Directors Meghan Kaser Aviana Nemeth

Clara Nemeth Abigail Zawisza

Voting Procedure • Election ballots will be mailed in December. • Officers: Vote for one candidate per office. • Directors: Vote for at least 4 and no more than 6 directors for ballot to be counted. • One ballot per return envelope. • Ballots must be received by January 28th. Ballots should be mailed to: Ohio Quarter Horse Association 6325 Quarter Horse Drive Columbus, OH 43229 Ohio Quarter Horse News 97

OQHYA Nominees

C AND I DATES CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT : ISABELLA D’ONOFRIO

FROM : Upper Arlington, OH

SCHOOL & GRADE : Upper Arlington High School Junior

Current Involvement I currently show the All Around Events with my horse Whata Moonlite Ride (Bob) and the Hunter Under Saddle with my horse N A Heartbeat (Val). I was recently named All American Quarter Horse Champion in the 15-18 trail with Bob. In 2019 I won the Congress in the 12-14 Hunter Under Saddle with Val. I also was Reserve World Champion in the 14-18 Equitation at the 2020 Youth World Show. I enjoy showing in Ohio and have won the 2020 and 2021 year end All Around 14-18 Youth. In 2021 I served as the reporter on the OQHYA Board. I was responsible for the scrapbook at the World Show and am proud that we won that division for Ohio.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA 1. Involvement 2. Engaging and interactive youth meetings 3. Organization OQHYAs top priorities should be involvement, engaging and interactive youth meetings, and organization. I feel very strongly that all youth should be involved in our great organization therefore we have a strong and inclusive environment. I want the youth to look forward to our meetings. Having engaging and interactive meetings will help get a variety of people involved with new ideas. Another priority is organizing. Having organization and advanced planning will help people stay involved and informed on what is coming up. If we are organized the process will run smoothly and be enjoyable for everyone. As those are 3 priorities there are many more.

Ohio Quarter Horse News

What will you contribute? I will be an active President who will engage other youth members to make sure we work as a team to fundraise and prepare for the youth World and Congress duties. I will be organized and well managed in planning efficient meetings and work to delegate responsibilities so that all youth members feel like they are an important part of the organization. I will work to make sure we continue our dedication to service and philanthropy. I also feel that creating a strong social inclusiveness across disciplines will help us become an even stronger organization.

EMMA WIRTZ

FROM : Sharrodsville, OH

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT :

SCHOOL & GRADE : 2021 graduate of Quaker Digital Academy

Current Involvement I’m currently the secretary for OQHYA and have been a board member since 2019. I am also very involved in attending all of our shows and events and I contribute most of my time to OQHYA and our industry.

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA Creating more inclusion for new

What will you contribute? What I will contribute to OQHYA is

members

a leader who’s main priority is our

Creating a mentor/buddy system of our

a gap year from school to finish my

older members taking our young/new members under their wing at our social

association. Currently, I am taking youth career and devote all my time to OQHYA and our sport. Therefore,

events

leading OQHYA will be my main priority

Creating new and exciting ways to keep

time, effort, and brainpower to our

our Ohio youth in the forefront of our

and I will be able to devote All of my association.

Industry.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 99

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR VICE PRESIDENT : GRANT MASTIN

FROM : Jackson, OH

SCHOOL & GRADE : Jackson High School - Senior

Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

I currently show Hand Made Machine

I would like to see OQHYA focus on

in the trail and western riding. Over the

increasing member involvement,

course of my show career, I have won

fundraising, and community projects.

numerous AQHYA World and Reserve World Championships, NSBA World

By promoting an approachable and

and Reserve World Championships,

inclusive culture, we can continue to

All-American Quarter Horse Congress

increase the level of member

Championships, and multiple national

involvement. I would like to provide

high point awards.

more volunteer and leadership opportunities for all ages. OQHA supports the youth organization in many ways. It is important that we uphold our fiscal responsibility to our parent organization, OQHA, in order to realize the full benefit of our incredible organization. We are all blessed to do what we do, and one phrase I live by is to “give more than I get.” As an organization, OQHYA has the support of many

100 Ohio Quarter Horse News

community and business leaders. We

can organize our efforts and ideas to make a huge combined impact for a number of worthy causes and service projects in our industry and communities.

What will you contribute? As Vice President, I will lean on my experience in local and state organizations to excel as a leader and mentor. I will lead by being a positive example and will take pride in representing OQHYA. Valuing the thoughts and opinions of members, I will be open minded to suggestions in order to encourage collaboration and create an inclusive environment. Taking on the Vice President role, I will help and support members and fellow officers with needed assistance.

BLAISE RUNYON

FROM : Hilliard, OH

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR SECRETARY :

SCHOOL & GRADE : Hilliard Bradley High School Senior

Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

I currently show my gelding, Drinks R

I think the most important goals for

On Me (Collin) in the trail,

OQHYA to meet are membership,

horsemanship, and pleasure. This past

involvement, and service. It’s

year I also showed Playin It Cool

important that our quarter horse

(Waylon) in the equitation, hunter

association makes itself accessible to

under saddle, and horsemanship. This

riders who may be trying to find a way

show season started off rough and

to start competing at our shows. The

losing my horse this past February has

process of getting all the memberships,

been the biggest challenge to

registrations, and finding a trainer can

overcome through my years of

be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.

showing. Conversely, I’d say my biggest

It’s also critical that those new

accomplishment in the show ring has

members who do join find a

been the journey of coming back from

community with us and feel welcomed

that, and how I’ve grown as a rider

in our meetings. OQHYA is a great way

showing young horses with minimal

to make valuable friendships and

experience in horsemanship and

connections, which is something all of

equitation. Besides that, I’ve earned

our peers deserve the chance to

Top 10 at the NSBA World Show,

experience. In addition, the OQHYA

multiple Top 10s at the L1

should steer our priorities towards

Championships, and a few Top 15s at

community service and involvement.

the Congress. I also show IEA and have

It’s imperative we give back to the

been a member since 2015, earning

state we all call home and leave our

a reserve national championship and

mark here.

What will you contribute? If elected to the secretary position, I will bring strong leadership and team cooperation. I believe the key to a successful group is the communication of ideas to improve the experience for everyone. It’s essential that all members have their opinions heard, and that they feel comfortable and familiar enough with the officers to vocalize their thoughts. The more unique approaches that are available to us, the more enjoyable the activity can be for riders from all backgrounds. So, given that approach, I believe my ability and willingness to interact with new people will greatly benefit the association as a whole.

national Top 10.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 101

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR REPORTER : KENNEDY DORSEY

FROM : Powell, OH

SCHOOL & GRADE : Olentangy Liberty High School - Sophomore

Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

I currently show in Showmanship,

Increase membership, increase

Trail, Western Riding, Equitation, and

member involvement and increase

Horsemanship. I was Top 10 in L1 at

fundraising.

the Youth World Show and Top Ten at the Congress in 12-14 and NYATT Horsemanship.

102 Ohio Quarter Horse News

What will you contribute? If elected, I will contribute my organizational skills to my role. I pride my self in being organized, assertive, and timely.

CA R O LYN C R A D D O C K

FROM : Pickerington, OH

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR :

SCHOOL & GRADE : Pickerington High School North - Freshman

Current Involvement OQHYA member

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

What will you contribute?

My top 3 priorities are to help

I will contribute by helping

younger members understand more

younger members get involved and

about OQHYA, help people understand

being positive

the benefits of being a part of OQHYA, and help us do more fundraising

Ohio Quarter Horse News 103

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : ISABELLA HAMILTON

FROM : Eaton, OH

SCHOOL & GRADE : Abeca Academy - 7th grade

Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

What will you contribute?

I attend all of the OQHYA meetings and

I feel that we need to be more

I would be able to contribute more of

OQHA shows. I also enjoy going to our

inclusive with new and young

my time to OQHYA because I have

many social events. I’m excited to be

members.

chosen to do online school so that

more involved in OQHYA.

I have more time to commit to our I think that we as an association need to have more activities at shows for the new and young members joining OQHYA.

104 Ohio Quarter Horse News

industry and my riding.

MEGHAN KASER

FROM : Johnstown, OH

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR :

SCHOOL & GRADE : Johnstown Elementary School 5th grade

Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

What will you contribute?

I started showing at 2 years old, but

I think OQHYA’s top three priorities

As a director, I will continue to be

I’ve been actively showing for the past

should be engaging more youth to

actively involved, I will continue to

4 years. I currently show in

become members, creating new

attend and promote our monthly

Performance Halter, Showmanship,

fundraisers and increasing social media

meetings, as well as help out the horse

Equitation, Hunter Under Saddle,

activity.

shows. I would love to help support the

Horsemanship and Western Pleasure. I

organization in every way possible.

was the 2020 Reserve All Around Small Fry for OQHA. I just added a Top 10 in the 11 & Under Showmanship, Top 20 in the Level 1 13 & Under Showmanship and Top 15 in the Youth Performance Halter Mares at the 2021 Congress to my list of accomplishments.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 105

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR :

Visit the Print Store your photos are here! Create products you love.

AVIANA NEMETH

FROM : Huber Heights, OH

SCHOOL & GRADE : Mason High School - Freshman

Start Your Project

Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

What will you contribute?

This past year I showed Dress Elegant

The top three priorities for OQHYA

If I am elected I will welcome new

in equitation and horsemanship in

should be to welcome new members of

people and help them learn more

the 13 and under and level one

all levels, keep things fun and educate

about what the association has to offer

classes. We have had a great year

on why we show horses.

them. Many kids do not understand

placing in the top ten in both horsemanship and equitation at the Youth World, NSBA World and the Congress. We are currently leading the nation in L1 Youth Horsemanship.

106 Ohio Quarter Horse News

what OQHYA is about.

CLARA NEMETH

FROM : Mason, OH

OQHYA Nominees

Visit the Print Store

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR :

SCHOOL & GRADE :

your photos are here! Create products you love.

Mason High School - Senior

Start Your Project Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

What will you contribute?

I show my horse that we bred, Jacks

The top three priorities should be to

Are Sleepy Too in horsemanship. This

be open to new ideas, encourage new

If elected as a Director again, I will

year we were 13th out of 175 riders

youth who may want to join and offer a

at the AQHYA World Show in the L2

positive environment for youth who to

Horsemanship, top placings at The Indy

want to be a part of OQHYA.

Circuit, The Madness and the Little Buckeye. We had limited showing this past year due to an injury that kept him

make sure that everyone feels welcome. I am happy to answer questions and talk to new people about my involvement in the industry. OQHYA has a lot to offer to youth who love showing Quarter Horses.

on stall rest for seven months so just to be able to show again has been special. In the past we have been top ten at the Congress in western pleasure and on the Ohio NYATT Congress Champion & NSBA champion team in horsemanship. We were the AQHA L1 East Reserve Champions in 14-18 horsemanship in 2019.

Ohio Quarter Horse News 107

OQHYA Nominees

CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR : ABIGAIL ZAWISZA

FROM : Findlay, OH

SCHOOL & GRADE : St Ursula Academy - Junior

Current Involvement

Top 3 Priorities for OQHYA

What will you contribute?

I show at almost all of the Ohio shows

1) Making sure that anyone that

I will contribute my efforts in making

and do the all around classes. My

wants to be included or participate

sure Congress continues to be the best

favorite class is horsemanship. I have

in a OQHYA event feels welcome and

AQHA show in the country. I will also

won at the NSBA and APHA World

included.

help grow OQHYA by tell others how

show in the Novice horsemanship.

great it is and encouraging them to

I also won at the NSBA world in the

2) Make sure we are prepared for

join. I will also contribute my efforts in

color Horsemanship and Novice

Youth World and have a great stall

making our AQHYA world show

showmanship. I will also be attending

front.

competition submissions are great so

the University of Georgia to ride on

we can continue to win.

there Equestrian team in the Fall of

3) Help with fundraising for OQHYA

2023.

members.

108 Ohio Quarter Horse News

Ohio Quarter Horse News 109

OQHYA Nominees Ohio Quarter Horse News 111

Ohio Quarter Horse News - Winter 2021

Articles inside

Sister Success

Congress NYATT

2021 Congress

OQHA

President’s Letter

Editor’s Letter