BLACK DANIELS
BREEDING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF EQUESTRIANS
(IXL Noble Express x Victoria Bay)
(VJ Royal Heir x Joleen WB)
DOWNTOWN DANCER LE
(Black Daniels x Solitairey Dancer by Lord Charles of Seven Oaks)
MIS DANIELLA LE
(Black Daniels x Mis Superior by Afire Bey V)
ARABELLA LE
(Royal Nobility x SA Adriana by H Mobility H)
HOLLY MARSHALL LE
(Royal Nobility x Lady Hazel by Sir William Robert)
Rhythmic AHSA is the newest addition to the powerful stallion line-up at Landon Equestrian.
Rhythmic is a 93% Crabbet stallion imported from Australia in 2020 by Tim and Marty Shea. Landon Equestrian also acquired Rhythmic’s dam, Solitairey Dancer AHSA, who produced the stunning 2024 filly Downtown Dancer LE sired by Black Daniels.
Contact Brooke Landon for breeding information to the Landon Equestrian stallions or for inquiries on the Landon-bred foals.
RHYTHMIC AHSA
(Robali Dargeeling AHSA x Solitairey Dancer AHSA)
MIS SELENA LE
(Rhythmic AHSA x Mis Superior by Afire Bey V)
ANAKIN LE
(Mamage x SA Adriana by H Mobility H)
On the Cover:
Brooke Landon NOT YOUR TYPICAL TEENAGER
by CAITLIN PIGOTT
Brooke Landon is not your typical teenager. Brooke Landon is also not your typical Arabian horse competitor or breeder. The opening line to this piece is the first and last time her age will be mentioned, because her knowledge of the breed and strategy behind how she plans to leave her mark, makes the number of laps she’s taken around the sun irrelevant. Landon is solely dedicated to her family business, Landon Equestrian. She shows an impressive string of horses but admits the bulk of her passion is driven by breeding English Arabians and Half-Arabians.
Landon, along with the help of her family and mentors, has created a system that she thinks will change the Arabian breed for the better. Entering the industry at the age she did, most young kids are
only focused on learning how to be the best competitor they can. From day one, Landon has been obsessive about lineage – using her analytical brain to learn all she could about generations of horses.
In line with the Youth Nationals theme “The Magic in You,” Landon was asked what she thought her personal magic was. She felt it was embracing the Arabian breed and helping the breed become the best it can be.
“She wants to breed, not ust be in the horses for the fun,” Landon’s trainer Jim Lowe said. “ rooke is going to be around for a while. She has a true passion for raising horses.”
Lowe Show Horse Centre operates out of the Landon Equestrian facility. Lowe has a front row seat to watch Landon interact with the horses and babies daily. He talks a lot about the bonds he witnesses Landon grow with the horses. Although her heart lies in the breeding aspect of the industry, she loves getting to show and compete at the highest of levels, like the upcoming Youth National Championships.
ALWAYS A LESSON NEVER A FAILURE
At the upcoming Youth National Championships, Landon will be showing Layla RTA in Arabian English leasure Choice JTR and Arabian ark Horse JTR Royal Nobility (Harry) in Arabian English leasure J TR - and JTR, as well as Arabian leasure riving JT and La ella ita in Arabian Country English leasure JTR Choice, Arabian English leasure JTR - , and Arabian Country leasure riving.
This will be Landon’s fourth time competing at the Youth Nationals, where she has already won one national championship and seven reserve national championships in years prior. Five of her national titles have been with Harry (pictured on the back cover). Landon is excited to show her horses on the biggest stage of the year.
It has not been many years since Landon was a first-time competitor, but she still has wise words to share with newer youth riders. Her advice shows that her mature wisdom applies to both her perspective on breeding and showing.
RHYTHMIC ASHA
“Remember to breathe,” she simply states. “Not making the cut, getting the gate or not reaching the pinnacle of showing you had hoped for yourself is always a lesson and never a failure. You will take those experiences to your next classes. It takes years to develop a rider and a show horse.”
Landon eagerly waits for the day that she can show some of the stock she created for her breeding program and the industry. In her own words, these horses are her financial and intellectual investments, so she is excited to marry her two worlds and showcase these foals in the future. She considers these horses her brand. With the mentors in her life and goals she has for herself, this will be a meaningful feat for her and for the industry.
In the saddle, she looks up to a very familiar name: Sophie Yih. Landon talked a lot about their friendship and adopting Yih’s practice of watching back all footage of her lessons and performances – the “good” and the “bad.” Landon takes the same care and attention she has to breeding lineages as she does to her own riding success. She does not cut corners in anything she is invested in. Landon spends as much of her days possible in the barn and around the horses – honing all the key components of being a successful rider and breeder.
Landon says that she also leans on some of the greats like Tim and Marty Shea and Ray LaCroix for other things as well. With a breeding empire like Shea Stables and Maroon Fire Arabians, the
Sheas have become mentors to Landon when it comes to reproducing techniques, along with some training principles. And LaCroix and Landon bond often over being “bloodline buffs.”
BREEDING: NO RISKS, NO REWARD
With all her time researching and trying different crosses, Landon feels that is what the industry needs more of: diversity of bloodlines. “Just because something has been done for years, doesn’t mean it’s the only way to do it,” she said with confidence. A real concern of the young breeder (especially considering the decline of competition numbers), is that the breed will run out of fresh bloodlines to create new crosses. That is why Landon has taken such thoughtful time with the stallions she has purchased, purchasing imported breeding stallions and mares on more than one occasion.
Rhythmic AHSA (pictured on the front cover) was imported from Australia by Landon’s mentors and inspirations, Tim and Marty Shea. Landon purchased this young stallion and is excited about his potential. She specifically points out how his bloodlines can help conformational correctness (legs and feet, especially) and motion from the hind end. In her experience thus far, she really feels this horse is bringing something special to the mares he is bred to, producing quality babies.
Even from a young age, Landon has entered the conversations about breeding and improving the Arabian breed. She is not afraid to give her opinion and encourages others to do the same.
“I hope people have the courage to take a risk in breeding,” Landon said.
Many of her moves so far have been “out of the box,” including importing Friesan stallion Thomas with the intention of creating a new wave of English horses. Landon is not afraid of taking a risk, because she feels her risks are well-thought out and planned. No risk, no reward, and Landon feels the rewards of her risk will be plentiful.
LANDON EQUESTRIAN
The most encouraging part of Landon’s tenacity is that it is not selfish. This young breeder has a vision for making the breed better. She is not only interested in creating great horses for her to show, breed and sell. Her analysis has led her to a hole in the Arabian industry that she has made her life work to fill. She is going to great lengths (like, across oceans) to do her part for the horses she has fallen in love with.
She wants her stallions to be attainable for any level of breeder and for her farm to be a place where people feel comfortable spending time. Landon keeps the stud fees low and drops her stallion’s stud fees so breeders of all levels can use them. And people who pay a visit to the central California farm can expect to be met with quality hospitality and kindness.
With some current concerns in the breed, the Arabian horse industry will be thankful that Landon is here testing some sure-fire principles with a new twist.▪
“Not making the cut, getting the gate or not reaching the pinnacle of showing you had hoped for yourself is always a lesson and never a failure. You will take those experiences to your next classes. It takes years to develop a rider and a show horse.”
~Brooke Landon
RYLEE ZELL & NOBLE HEIRR
ALEXIS PETERSON & PA MONTEREY ALWAYS AND RGT FIREBALL WHISKEY
PROUDLY PRESENTS:
In her final year of Walk/Jog.
Determined to dominate Walk/Trot.
Patiently waiting to take on her sisters.
Trained by Bob & Katie Hart | Stabled at Vallejo III Inc. | Afton, OK
Lyla Diver
Alice Diver Evelyn Diver
Alice Diver
SH Smoke N’ Sparks
HA Short Stirrup Reining
HA Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure
Walk/Trot
Shiloh
Arabian Western Pleasure
Walk/Jog
Jullyen V
Arabian Western Equitation
Walk/Jog
Sahara Jewel V
Arabian Western Pleasure Walk/Jog
Arabian Western Equitation Walk/Jog
“Hard work pays off in life...and at the barn.” -Alice, Age 10
AmayzingMoon
Arabian Hunter Pleasure
Walk/Trot
Arabian Hunter Seat Equitation
Walk/Trot
Lyla Diver
Goldd Streak
HA Hunter Pleasure
Walk/Trot
HA Hunter Seat Equitation
Walk/Trot
“My favorite days are barn days.” -Lyla, Age 8
EvelynROLDiver What An Angel
Arabian Hunter Pleasure Walk/Jog
Arabian Hunter Equitation Walk/Jog
And, if Evelyn has anything to do with it, Future Arabian Hunter Jumper.
“Now that I have my own horse, I’m going to beat my sisters.” -Evelyn, Age 6
Believe magic INYOUROWN
YOUTH NATIONAL & HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES!
Guidelines For Success With Your Horse Partner...
What Was True In 2014, Still Applies Today
by SCOTT BENJAMIN, 2014 Youth Nationals Judge
10. Envision your winning performance. Fortune favors the prepared! Ride to win. The judges are looking for the best performance each and every time in every class—from elimination to final.
9. Do not override your horse. No matter how talented your horse may be, your performance needs to reflect one suitable for a youth exhibitor. Be careful not to overtire your horse in the first few days if you have several classes and/or divisions in which to ride during the week.
8. Use the arena to your advantage. Know where you need to go and what you need to do to show your horse to its greatest advantage. Be aware of your surroundings and position your horse to be seen at its best advantage. Avoid congestion, pitfalls in the ring and problem horses. DO NOT run over the judge in an attempt to be seen. We cannot pin you if we are injured/ maimed, knocked unconscious or worse!
7. In equitation and showmanship, please remember to demonstrate superior horsemanship. While we are indeed judging the person’s performance, your demonstration of skill is directly related to your ability to get your horse to perform at its very best. Know your pattern! Help us reward your skill and preparation by executing a well rehearsed precise pattern. Silly questions in the line-up are unnecessary.
6. Know the class specifications and execute them accordingly. All horses, regardless of discipline, will be expected to walk—four-beat, flat-footed, possibly for an extended period of time. These are pleasure classes with performances suitable for a youth exhibitor.
5. Correct your mistakes (which are inevitable) quickly, efficiently and smoothly with minimal drama and fuss. A mistake-free performance is not a requirement to win in any class, so keep riding and stay focused.
4. Concentrate on your performance. What everyone else is doing—as long as no interference is caused by, or to you—is none of your business. Don’t look around and get intimidated. Leave the judging to the judges. Get in, get busy and get the job done!
3. Showboating is unnecessary. When the line-up is called, strike your best trot down the rail and cruise into line. The class is finished and the judges have already made up their minds. Impress us by lining up with style!
2. Enjoy the moment. Reflect on the journey both you and your horse have made to get to this point—to Youth Nationals—and savor every sweet morsel of that achievement.
1. Have fun! This is your time to shine. Make it the ride/performance of your life!
YOUTH
ofiles
SENIOR & YOUTH NATIONAL GRADUATES
Age: 18 | Walnut, IL
Liberty Meadows Training Center / Randy
Sullivan Training Center / John White Stables
Horses: Nuttin But Chrome ~ SimplyIrrestible RK
Steel The Gold ~ Super Nova PR Saddle Seat, Eq., Western & Performance Halter
Dream Vacation
Bora Bora
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Caitlyn Egan and Tamar Carmandy
Favorite YN Memory
Winning 2021 Reserve Champion H/A Saddle Seat Eq. 14 & Under.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Working out to stay fit for show season.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak and potatoes.
5-Year Hope
In Vet School at Colorado State University.
Trainer Advice
Go out and show everyone what you’re made of.
Horse Partner Thanks For giving their all and always trusting me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dog, Tessa.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait They are full of personality.
After Graduation Plans
Attending Colorado State and majoring in Equine Science. New Rider Advice
Don’t be afraid to try other disciplines! Thank you … to my parents, family, and the trainers that have got me to this point
Age: 18 | Rogers, MN
Dan McConaughey
Horse: Purple Heys PCP+/ Hunter Pleasure
Dream Vacation
Belgium, it is so pretty!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
PA Milao Kid and Mala Levin
Favorite YN Memory
My 2020 Western Pleasure Side Saddle class with Pistalero WLF.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Swimming and hiking
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Pesto Pasta
5-Year Hope Happy
Trainer Advice
Make good choices as I enter the ring.
Horse Partner Thanks Taking care of me when I make a mistake.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My Golden Retriever, Brady.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their try.
After Graduation Plans
Going to North Dakota State to study Business. New Rider Advice
Always stay calm and ride what you have. Thank you … Mom, for always being there and for supporting me.
Age: 19 | Scottsdale, AZ
Lucho Guimaraes Arabians
Horses: JR Saleem ~ Lexxus NS
Truly Madly Deeply Halter
Dream Vacation Rome, Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Lucho Guimaraes and Kavalle MI
Favorite YN Memory
Winning JTH and JOTH with my mare, Lexxus NS
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Helping out at dogs shows!
5-Year Hope
I hope to be a halter trainer and take over my dad’s business.
Trainer Advice
It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks.
Horse Partner Thanks Thank you for being my best companion in the ring.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait
How charismatic they are.
After Graduation Plans
Going to college to study Forensic Psychology. New Rider Advice
It’s ok to be nervous; we all get like that. Thank you … to my parents; I wouldn’t be here without you.
SENIOR & YOUTH NATIONAL GRADUATES
HANNAH JAMESELLAWYNN KIESNER CECILIA LIND
Age: 17 | Temecula, CA
KRE Show Horses
Horse: ROL Cygn Here+++// Hunter Pleasure, Dressage, Sport Horse Under Saddle & In-Hand
Dream Vacation
Africa and/or the Maldives.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Any of my barn mates and their horses!
Favorite YN Memory
Hanging with friends, laughing, eating too much food, and watching classes.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volunteer with the special needs community.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
Spaghetti my mamma makes.
5-Year Hope
Working as a nurse, happy, healthy and financially stable-ish.
Trainer Advice
No matter how many are in a class, ride your best!
Horse Partner Thanks For being there for me when I needed it the most.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dog, Gary!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their sassy personality!
After Graduation Plans
Attend Grand Canyon University for Nursing. New Rider Advice
If you relax, your horse will relax. Thank you … to my amazing trainer, parents, brother and fantastic barn family for everything!
Age: 18 | TN Kiesner Training Costume, Country & Equitation
The
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Alexa Cohn and The Heiristocratt
Favorite YN Memory
Watching my sister in equitation.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity CYCLEBAR
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
When my dad makes pizza.
5-Year Hope
In New York doing an internship/grad school.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Vienna, my Doberman angel.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their intelligence and personality.
After Graduation Plans
Attending college at Loyola Marymount in LA. New Rider Advice
Just focus on you and have fun! Thank you … to my parents who never stop pushing and encouraging me.
Age: 18 | Grosse Ile, MI
Signature Oak Stables
Horse: HS Majestic Hunter Pleasure
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Kayleigh Meyer on my horse Mikey.
Favorite YN Memory
Winning my first Youth National Championship when I was 10.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Weightlifting
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
My mom’s homemade vodka pasta.
5-Year Hope In medical school.
Trainer Advice
Go be a hunter princess.
Horse Partner Thanks Helping me accomplish all of my dreams.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Sea Turtle
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their personality.
New Rider Advice
Always remember to have fun!
Thank you … to my parents for always supporting me and the Sig Oaks team.
Dream Vacation
French Riviera
SENIOR & YOUTH NATIONAL GRADUATES
Age: 19 | Miami, FL
Vicki Humphrey Training Center
Horses: Willa Jean BF ~ Shocked and Bewildered VH English, Country & Equitation
Dream Vacation
Everywhere! I want to travel the world.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Rhein Standish and Barcelona. They are electric!
Favorite YN Memory
Showing Minnievan in H/A English Walk/Trot my first year of Youth Nationals.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Weight training and hot Pilates.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Sunday Sauce, my family’s red sauce pasta dish.
5-Year Hope
Working a full-time job in Miami, and riding and showing my horses.
Trainer Advice
Above all else, smile and have fun in the ring.
Horse Partner Thanks For never failing to make me the happiest girl.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Baci, my Labradoodle.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their expression and unique personalities.
New Rider Advice Cherish every moment, both the good and the bad.
Thank you … to my parents, Christy, Vicki, and Jessie, for making my dreams come true.
Age: 18 | TX
Whistlejacket Farm / The Brass Ring
Horses: OH Piazza ~ House of Blues BF ~ Southern Charm SF ~ Miss Central Park ~ Wild Hearts CA ~ Truli A Prince ~ EAF Hesa On Time Hunter, Country, Western, Equitation, Park, Reining
Dream Vacation
A tour around Europe!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Juliette Dell and Nutcracker Sweet!
Favorite YN Memory
Any memories from Youth in Albuquerque.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hanging out with friends!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Anytime my brother grills!
5-Year Hope Happy (and still riding)!
Trainer Advice Never stop riding your ride/class.
Horse Partner Thanks Anything and everything.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs and cats.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their character and will to please.
After Graduation Plans
Attend Junior college in California. New Rider Advice Take a deep breath and remember to have fun!
Thank you … to every single person (& horse) who has helped make me the rider I am today.
Age: 18 | Temecula, CA
KRE Show Horses
Horse: Green Acres Acclaim Showmanship & Western Dressage
Dream Vacation Ireland
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Saritah Sinha and Cairo
Favorite YN Memory
Winning the dog costume class in 2023 with my barn friends!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Baking and online shopping.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken Alfredo
5-Year Hope Educated, happy and healthy!
Horse Partner Thanks His people-pleaser personality! He’s so lovable.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait They’re beautiful and they know it.
After Graduation Plans
Attending UC San Diego for Human Biology.
New Rider Advice
Stick with it! It gets hard but it’s so rewarding. Thank you … to my parents. I couldn’t have done any of this without you. Love you lots!
HARPER PATILLO ROSEEMILY SAKAMOTO
Age: 18 | CA
Stachowski Farm
Horses: Labor of Love ~ Imperial Heir Country, Driving & Native Costume
Dream Vacation
Istanbul to see the Hagia Sophia.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
My friend Sophie Yih and Heritage TRGR
Favorite YN Memory
Riding around in golf carts in Albuquerque for water balloon fights.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Reading … lots and lots of reading.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Spaghetti and handmade meatballs.
5-Year Hope
At seminary and graduated from college.
Trainer Advice
Sit back and smile!
Horse Partner Thanks For being my right leg when I need it.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Stingray
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait
Their personality and intelligence.
New Rider Advice
Love your horses. Thank you … to all the trainers I’ve worked with over the years and to my mother.
Age 18 | Moraga, CA
Earthquake Arabians
Horses: Arsenal BV+++// ~ Knightingale LR+// Hunter Pleasure, Side Saddle English, Hunter Seat Equitation & Performance Halter
Dream Vacation Italy or Greece
Favorite YN Memory
Finding out I placed reserve in performance halter during the lineup of my hunter class after going top ten!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hiking with my dog, Lucy.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Asian noodle salad
5-Year Hope
Still riding around on Hank!
Trainer Advice Value hard work and independence.
Horse Partner Thanks For knowing when to be goofy, caring, kind and spicy at all the right times.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My Black Lab puppy, Lucy.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their amazing personalities.
After Graduation Plans
Attending the University of San Diego to study Business. New Rider Advice Work hard and learn something from every opportunity.
Thank you … to my parents for endlessly supporting me and my trainer, Tammy, for always caring about both my horses and me.
Age: 17 | Temecula, CA
KRE Show Horses
Horses: Majarres Cairo++++// Coachella Queen++/
Dressage, Sport Horse, Hunter Pleasure & Equitation
Dream Vacation Spain, Switzerland or the Netherlands!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Sophie Yih and her Equitation horse!
Favorite YN Memory
My barn’s circus-themed golf cart in one of the golf cart competitions!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Traveling and seeing other parts of the world!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
A baked potato and pork chops.
5-Year Hope
Accepted to medical school to be a doctor!
Trainer Advice
Consistency and dedication are crucial.
Horse Partner Thanks For always being so patient with my silly mistakes.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal
Definitely my cat, Mila!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their intelligence and expressive attitude.
After Graduation Plans
Attend USC to major in Biology and French. New Rider Advice
Appreciate the opportunity before the roses. Thank you … to my mom for your endless support and to Katherine for believing in me.
SENIOR & YOUTH NATIONAL GRADUATES
GRACE SMITH
SARA STOWELL SARAH TRANSUE
Age: 19 | Orting, WA
Silver Aspen Ranch
Horses: Blended Whizkey ~ Viper WA
Competing in 10 disciplines
Dream Vacation
I would love to travel to Italy one day!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Michelle Pease Paulsen and SS A Noble Star
Favorite YN Memory
When I won my first Hunt Seat Pleasure championship, it was surreal!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Hiking, baking, running and reading!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
My dad’s Fettuccine Alfredo!
5-Year Hope
Loving my career, enjoying my horses, and spending time with my loved ones!
Trainer Advice
Have fun and ride like the wind!
Horse Partner Thanks
For their unconditional love and support!
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs and platypuses!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Dedication, diversity and great personalities!
New Rider Advice
Believe in yourself ALWAYS and never give up!
Thank you … Mom and Dad, Cheryl, Skylar, Michelle, Kade and my SAR barn family!
Age: 19 | MN
Kiesner Training
Horse: Royal Style Country Pleasure
Dream Vacation
Santorin, Greece
Favorite YN Memory
I can’t pick just one memory, but the friendships I have made over the years.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Shrimp Risotto with asparagus.
Horse Partner Thanks Teaching me to never give up.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dolphin
New Rider Advice
Remember, don’t take too much pressure, have fun! Thank you …
To all my past and present trainers, I am forever grateful for the lessons.
Age: 18 | Marana, AZ
Nelson Farms
Horse: Destiny Bi Design NF Sport Horse, Hunt Seat Equitation & Ranch Pleasure
Dream Vacation
Somewhere tropical, like Hawaii.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
I’ve always loved watching my mom compete.
First YN Expectation
I’m most excited to show in a different state.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity I love playing guitar and lifting weights.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
My grandma’s creamed tuna with biscuits.
5-Year Hope
Training horses professionally out of my own business.
Trainer Advice
Learn from as many people and horses as you can.
Horse Partner Thanks Her confidence allows me to grow my own skills.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal
My dog, Oakley.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their versatility and adaptability.
After Graduation Plans
Attend University of Arizona for Animal Science.
New Rider Advice
Don’t compare yourself to other people. Thank you … to my mom and grandparents, and my amazing trainers Trish, Betsy and Courtney.
SENIOR & YOUTH NATIONAL GRADUATES
HALEY WALDSCHMIDT
Age: 18 | Versailles, KY
Stachowski Farm
Horse: American Hustle
Show Hack, Country & Side Saddle
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Lauren Gibbond and Captivating Shoc WA
Favorite YN Memory
My first Show Hack win last year.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
My mom’s Pesto Tortellini.
5-Year Hope In the beginning of my Interior Design career.
Trainer Advice Slow down.
Horse Partner Thanks
Putting up with any and all my mistakes.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Giraffe
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait
Their individual and quirky personalities.
After Graduation Plans
Attend the University of Kentucky. New Rider Advice
Don’t let a bad ride define the rest of your show!
Thank you … Mom and Dad, for allowing me to show these incredible horses.
mem ies
Senior Photos
Senior Photos
STEPH BARRIS MCKENNA BEIN LILY BURICK
Age: 16 | Freeland, MI
Rooker Training Stable
Horses: CP High Card Daniels ~ CPH Superstar Country English, Show Hack & Western Pleasure
Dream Vacation Ocala, Florida
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Devon Shuster and Entouragze
Favorite YN Memory Making my horses’ treat bowls.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Camping and hiking.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken Parmesan
5-Year Hope Horse trainer
Trainer Advice
Ride your ride and don’t worry about anybody else.
Horse Partner Thanks Teaching me so much about the sport.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dogs, Marley and Waylon.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their drive, effort and determination.
Age: 17 | AZ
Bein Performance Horses
Horses: BSF Gitter Dun ~ Adessa SS Ranch, Reining, Horsemanship, Hunt Seat Eq. & Trail
Dream Vacation Europe or Hawaii
Favorite YN Memory Being with all my friends and meeting new people.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken pasta or steak.
5-Year Hope
Graduating college and taking over the family business.
Trainer Advice Don’t die.
Horse Partner Thanks For putting up with me.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait They’re full of energy and always loving.
Age: 15 | MI
Rooker Training Stable
Horse: Light My Fyre LR Country English Pleasure
Dream Vacation I would travel to Italy!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Devon Shuster and Entouragze
First YN Expectation I’m most excited to be competing at a national level!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Going boating with my family and my dogs!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Homemade pasta
5-Year Hope I hope to be in college pursuing my equestrian career.
Trainer Advice Just go out there and have fun.
Horse Partner Thanks Being so goofy, it always makes me smile.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dogs!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait I love how intelligent and curious they are.
Age: 17 | Lake Stevens, WA
Moon Shadow Performance Horses
Horses: Pretty Little Liar ~ Spinnin All My Money
Hunter Pleasure, Showmanship & Performance Halter
Dream Vacation Greece
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Suzanne Calnan and Afires Soldier++++/
First YN Expectation Making new friends!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Photography
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Homemade chicken nuggets and mashed potatoes.
5-Year Hope Still working with horses!
Trainer Advice
Always look forward and not back on your mistakes.
Horse Partner Thanks Always being there for me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their unique personalities.
Age: 16 | CA
Stachowski Farm
Horses: Fresh Prince WA ~ Baha AJF Hunter Pleasure
Dream Vacation
Bora Bora
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Bella Heath and Fresh Prince WA
Favorite YN Memory
During COVID when my dad came to nationals because he didn’t have work.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Designing floral arrangements.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal My dad’s lasagna.
5-Year Hope Finishing college and starting up my own business.
Trainer Advice Don’t overthink.
Horse Partner Thanks For giving me more confidence.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Turtles
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their big personalities and high energy.
Age: 17 | Miami, FL
Stachowski Farm
Horse: Crack Me Up English Pleasure
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Nester Gonzalez and Crack Me Up
Favorite YN Memory Going Reserve National Champion with my horse Break Your Heart LOA.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity I enjoy walking and playing pickleball.
5-Year Hope Graduated from SMU and doing things that bring me joy.
Trainer Advice Go in there and get it done.
Horse Partner Thanks Teaching me patience.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My French Bulldog, Luna.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their energy and fire.
Age: 15 | FL
Christy Higman-Clements Training
Horses: The High Spheirrow ~ Magical Moves
Saddle Seat Equitation & Country Pleasure
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Annia Garmendia and Magical Moves
Favorite YN Memory Showing with my best friend, Chloe Jimenez.
5-Year Hope
In college while still riding and showing.
Trainer Advice
Be confident and ride as if you already won.
Horse Partner Thanks His willingness to always work hard.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs – they are so loving.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their personality – it’s so unique.
Age: 15 | AZ
Bein Performance Horses
Horses BSF Buffalo Bill Cody+// Make It Rein CSF+/ Working Western
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite YN Memory Freestyle Reining
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volleyball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Anything my parents make me.
5-Year Hope Rich
Trainer Advice
I can’t do it for you; you have to do it yourself.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Cats
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their personality.
Age: 17 | Alpine, UT
Ramirez Training Center
Horses: SS Black Widow
Supremely Royal SOF ~ Corona PE
Saddle Seat Equitation, Show Hack, Country Pleasure & Costume
Favorite YN Memory A unanimous costume win on Cliff was one of the best days of my life!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Going to the gym.
Horse Partner Thanks Always being ready to do his best.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dogs.
CORRINE KENNEDYREAGAN KNAACKRAINIE KUCHYNKA
Age: 16 | Waterford, MI
Rooker Training Stable
Horse: Our Primary Goal Country Pleasure, Driving & Show Hack
Dream Vacation
The Plateau de Valensole in France.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Stephanie with Jack (High Card Daniels).
First YN Expectation
I’m excited to see the show grounds for the first time and the scenery.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Drawing
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Traditional Swedish pancakes
5-Year Hope Studying to become an architect and competing.
Trainer Advice
To always have a connection with your horse.
Horse Partner Thanks Allowing me to grow and learn to ride saddle seat.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait When they lift their tail when they’re excited.
Age: 17 | Fallbrook, CA KRE Show Horses
Horse: Cape Crusader Hunter & Dressage
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Everyone! It is fun seeing the different bonds!
Favorite YN Memory
Personal barn memories each year.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hanging out with my friends.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Any type of pasta.
5-Year Hope I hope to be an ER doctor!
Trainer Advice
Take something from a show and use it to learn.
Horse Partner Thanks Always doing his best when performing.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Loyalty
Age: 17 | Cave Creek, AZ
Ramirez Training Center
Horses: Skcandalous ~ Boogie ~ Billy Maverick ~ CJ ~ Bravo ~ Billy English and Country Pleasure, Side Saddle, Western, Show Hack & Driving
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Sophie Yih and CF Bella Luna
Favorite YN Memory
Winning a national championship on my heart horse, Boogie Man LR!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Baking and training my dog.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Lentil soup that my mom makes.
Trainer Advice Don’t overthink it.
Horse Partner Thanks For trying their hardest and taking care of me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My rescue dog, Toby.
Photo by Cat McKenna
BROOKE LANDON
Age: 16 | Santa Ynez, CA
Lowe Show Horse Centre / Landon Equestrian LLC
Horses Royal Nobility+/ Layla RTA
La Bella Vita
Saddle Seat
Dream Vacation
Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Sophie Yih and any of her show horses!
Favorite YN Memory
A double victory pass with Sophie Yih last year in the Arabian English Pleasure 15-18!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Studying Corporate America/Corporate Global!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
Essentially anything with steak!
5-Year Hope
A successful business owner of a high value company and a leader of AHA!
Trainer Advice
Rein doesn’t mean anything without leg.
Horse Partner Thanks
Always being willing to learn and improve.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Lions!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Versatility!
Age: 17 | Mitchell, SD Stachowski Farm
Horses: Kalaramas Serotonin ~ Just Like Fire VVF
Saddle Seat Equitation, English & Country Pleasure
Dream Vacation
Bora Bora
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Alexa Gilbert and Toskcan Stars
Favorite YN Memory
Winning the H/A English Choice last year with Bayonce!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Always staying busy with friends and family.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken and rice.
5-Year Hope
Planning what the rest of my life will look like and loving what I do.
Trainer Advice
Have fun and don’t take it too seriously.
Horse Partner Thanks For trying her hardest every time we hit the ring.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal
My cat, Mister Chip.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait
The different personalities they each have.
Age: 17 | Fort Worth, TX
Whistlejacket Farm
Horse: VA Wine and Roses
Hunter Pleasure & Hunt Seat Eq. (Not To Jump)
Dream Vacation
Greece
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Wendy Potts and SRW Gotta Bugatti
Favorite YN Memory
The balloon fights at the end of the show.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Cooking
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak and mashed potatoes.
5-Year Hope
A successful businesswoman.
Trainer Advice More leg!
Horse Partner Thanks Being the sweetest!
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dog, Biscuit.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their compassion.
Age: 17 | Woodbury, MN
Whistlejacket Farms
Horses: Sunrise Kid MF ~ Barcelo Hunter Pleasure
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Wendy Potts and Barcelo
Favorite YN Memory
Winning my Elite class back in 2020.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Lacrosse or going wake surfing.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Spaghetti and meatballs
5-Year Hope In dental school.
Trainer Advice Use leg before hand.
Horse Partner Thanks For all the memories they brought me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Each horse’s different personality.
Age: 18 | Magnolia, TX Tamar Arabians
Horses RD Stivalation++ TOA Khadence
Tamar Good Vibrations ~ Tamar Dark Duchess
Hunter Pleasure, English Side Saddle, Hunt Seat Equitation & Halter
Dream Vacation San Diego
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo My trainer and my horse Stevie.
Favorite YN Memory When freestyle reining was most popular.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Art
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Any type of pasta with parmesan.
5-Year Hope In college and continuing my love for Arabian horses.
Trainer Advice Don’t suck!
Horse Partner Thanks For giving me confidence I didn’t know I had.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Cats
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How alert they are.
Age: 16 | Sarasota, FL
Christy Higman-Clements Training
Horses: RGT Fireball Whiskey PA Monterey Always
Hunter Pleasure & Hunt Seat Equitation
Dream Vacation Paris, France!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Brooke and her horse Hot Rodder PF in costume!
Favorite YN Memory
My first national championship in 2 22 with my horse Whiskey!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity I love to read or listen to music!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Zucchini boats!
5-Year Hope In a good college.
Trainer Advice Take a deep breath.
Horse Partner Thanks For putting up with my shenanigans!
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their versatility and beauty.
JOSIE RAGUSA RENE RAMIREZ JR.
Age: 15 | IN Kiesner Training
Horses: Commander N Chief NNW
Heirs Rock N Roll ~ FirstNightProwler VA English & Country
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Alexa and The Heiristocratt
Favorite YN Memory Going National Champion.
Horse Partner Thanks Giving me good memories.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Cats
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How smart they are.
Age: 17 | Baton Rouge, LA Krohn Show Horses
Horse: KA Le Tosk Hunter Pleasure
Dream Vacation Cyprus, Greece
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Anyone from my barn or my friends who compete.
Favorite YN Memory Winning Reserve National Champion at my first Youth Nationals.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Playing volleyball.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Homemade spaghetti
5-Year Hope Still showing but also in school getting a Master’s degree.
Age: 18 | AZ
Ramirez Training Center English & Country English Pleasure
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Rainie Kuchynka and Boogie Man LR
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak
5-Year Hope Training horses right beside my father.
Horse Partner Thanks For getting me around.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My Labrador, Rocco.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their attitude and charisma.
Trainer Advice Show off your necklace to help keep your chest up.
Horse Partner Thanks For being so determined and willing.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My cat, Jinx.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their dished faces and high tail carriage.
Age Springfield, MO
Chrishan Park Arabians
Horse: CSP Zeus
Country & Saddle Seat Equitation
Dream Vacation
A tropical private island.
Favorite YN Memory
Winning my first national championship.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Either playing the cello or shadowing at hospitals.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken nuggets and mac and cheese.
5-Year Hope
Working as a critical care nurse.
Trainer Advice Go in there and kick ass.
Horse Partner Thanks For not killing me yet.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dog.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their unpredictable personality.
Age: 15 | Mason City, IA
Sapphire Ribbions
Horses: Tshampagne Heartlight Totally Toskcan PF
Hunter Pleasure, Halter, English, Park & Costume
Dream Vacation
Paris, France and the Eiffel Tower.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Isabella Gonzalez and Miss Martini BF
Favorite YN Memory
Bella winning Unanimous Champion last year in the H/A English.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Basketball and Drawing.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal My great grandma’s goulash.
5-Year Hope Horse trainer
Trainer Advice
Stick out, but not like a sore thumb.
Horse Partner Thanks For being the most understanding horse ever.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Giraffe
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their beautiful head.
Age: 17 | Shelbyville, IN
Tara E.A. LaFave
Horse: BJD Dark Alley Hunter Pleasure
Dream Vacation
I would like to see the Spanish Riding School.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Charlotte Fry and Glamourdale–such class.
First YN Expectation I am most excited to experience the comradery that Youth Nationals has to offer.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity My dog and I enjoy hiking and dog sports.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Fettuccine Alfredo
5-Year Hope My goal is to be working my way as a professional in the equine industry.
Trainer Advice
If 4 is the answer, how many solutions are there?
Horse Partner Thanks For being lenient when I had room to grow.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My German Shepard
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Communication must be a two-way street.
Age: 17 | Alto, MI
Rooker Training Stable
Horse: Big Thunder Show Hack & Country English Pleasure
Dream Vacation Ireland
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Nora Shaffer and Ballerina BF
Favorite YN Memory
Winning Show Hack with my heart horse LC Nobelistic.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Going to the beach!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak and arugula salad.
5-Year Hope
Working with my mom pursuing a career to afford horses.
Trainer Advice
Train the horse for the rider, not yourself.
Horse Partner Thanks Teaching me the art of patience.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My pony.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Tails for days!
Age: 16 | WA
Silver Aspen Ranch
Horses: Mocha Java Chip ~ Krona Time LR Working Western & Hunter
Dream Vacation Mykonos, Greece
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hiking
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dog, Arlo.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their personalities.
Age: 18 | Cave Creek, AZ
Daniel Training Center
Horse: Pez RTA English, Park & Costume
Dream Vacation Alaska, I like the outdoors and the cold.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Michael Spandau and SF Major Shoc
Favorite YN Memory I have always enjoyed watching the nighttime thunderstorms at the show.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity I fly planes and I also ride mountain bikes.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal A nice, rare steak with over-medium eggs.
5-Year Hope
Flying for a regional airline getting ready to hop over to Delta.
Trainer Advice Ride every stride.
Horse Partner Thanks Patience
Favorite Non-Horse Animal English Golden Retrievers
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their very human-like and playful personality.
RYLEE ZELL
Age: 17 | Hollywood, FL
Christy Higman-Clements Training
Horses: Noble Heirr ~ Prized Son BF
Show Hack, Costume, Country & Side Saddle
Dream Vacation Dubai
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Running and tennis.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Beef Bulgogi Bowls
5-Year Hope
Showing one of my homebred Arabian horses.
Trainer Advice Let go.
Horse Partner Thanks For being patient with me as I’ve grown as a rider.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Cows
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their intelligence.
HALLIE ZIMMERMAN
Age: 17 | Roswell, GA
Stachowski Farm
Horses: Sippin On Fire VH
Nirvanas Sizzle PF ~ Norman Rockwell
Saddle Seat
Dream Vacation
The Bahamas
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Kayla Masselink and After Thoughts
Favorite YN Memory Winning National Champion on my horse Cider, his first year as a hunter.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Going for hikes with my dogs.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Tacos
5-Year Hope A senior at UGA.
Trainer Advice Be confident and have fun.
Horse Partner Thanks Trying so hard for me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their big personalities.
Age: 14 | Scottsdale, AZ
Burkman Centre
Horses: MS Dutch Chocolate
Juke Boxx Hero
Hunter & Country English Pleasure
Dream Vacation Germany
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Rene Rameriz Jr and Nuttin But Luck PF
Favorite YN Memory
Chocolate and I earning National Champion last year in both Hunter classes.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Studying Psychology.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
Anything that is available.
5-Year Hope Unanimous National Champion
Trainer Advice Relax
Horse Partner Thanks Giving me confidence in myself.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Elk
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Athleticism
Age: 14 | AZ
Desoto Training Center
Horse: Vegaz Showgirl CCF Country
Dream Vacation Hawaii
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Gabe Desoto and BL Hells Bells in Park.
First YN Expectation I’m really excited to show in the driving.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Swimming
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Enchiladas
5-Year Hope An elite rider.
Trainer Advice Stop riding like an idiot!
Horse Partner Thanks For always doing her job.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dogs.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their attitude.
Age: 13 | Howell, MI
Rooker Training Stable / Cotton
Performance Horses
Horses Blazn Heir HPF Notorious Afire
PA Moonshine Kid ~ CPH Lonestarr ~ CPH Its Cello Time Saddle Seat, Hunter & Western
Dream Vacation World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Abe Cotton and PA Marican Outlaw
Favorite YN Memory Winning National Champion in Western Pleasure on Ahleah TRF!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volleyball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Spaghetti and garlic bread.
5-Year Hope A famous horse breeder.
Trainer Advice Go in there and have the best ride yet!
Horse Partner Thanks For loving me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Wiener dog
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their movement.
BRAYDEN BISHOP
Age: 14 | Harrisonville, MO
Clanton Performance Horses
Horses Thomas Crown Affair ML Aur InLove Country and Western Pleasure, Driving & Performance Halter
Dream Vacation
New Zealand to hunt red stag!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Stanley White III and The Seeker V
Favorite YN Memory
Watching Rex White and Extremely Fortunut in Park.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hunting and fishing.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak and homemade rolls.
5-Year Hope
Still showing horses, starting a business, hunting and fishing.
Trainer Advice It’s not about the placing, it’s about the ride.
Horse Partner Thanks Giving their best all the time, every time!
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Morgan, my dog.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their kindness.
Age: 15 | Temecula, CA KRE Show Horses
Horse: MSU Start All Over++/ Dressage & Sport Horse
Dream Vacation
Alaska
Favorite YN Memory
Winning my first reserve championship with my walk/trot pony!
5-Year Hope
More relaxed and confident with my horse and myself.
Trainer Advice Ride with leg, a smile, and be confident.
Horse Partner Thanks Teaching me to not be so hard on myself.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their random mood switches.
Age: 15 | Forney, TX
Krohn Show Horses LLC
Horse: Dunit Right MCA
Hunter Pleasure, Equitation & Performance Halter
Dream Vacation
California, it is very pretty there!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Olivia Parks and DM Summer Surprise
YN Expectation
That I get to hang out and show with all my friends!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volleyball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken Parmesan
5-Year Hope
To be a veterinarian. I want to care for animals and do whatever I can to help them
Trainer Advice Ride smart and have fun!
Horse Partner Thanks How confident he has made me in the arena!
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Biscuit, a Golden Retriever.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait They are so willing and will do anything for you.
Age: 15 | Scottsdale, AZ Burkman Centre
Horses: Higher Love VH ~ Spectaculheir DGL
Dream of Love Hunter, Country, Eq., Show Hack & Side Saddle
Dream Vacation Maldives
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
My sister (Addie) and Miranda (now retired).
Favorite YN Memory
Winning my first set of National roses in a big country class.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Playing tennis and hiking the Colorado mountains.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
Steak with mom’s homemade Texas sheet cake.
5-Year Hope In med school.
Trainer Advice
Keep riding even if you’ve messed up.
Horse Partner Thanks For putting in so much work.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Panda
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their versatility. They really can do it all!
Age: 15 | MO Clanton Performance Horses Horses Twistafourtune JB ACA Bakarra Hunter Pleasure, Eq., Showmanship & Halter
Dream Vacation
Paris, France
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Lead Line riders they are the future of riding.
Favorite YN Memory
The block party and golf cart parade!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Swimming
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak sandwiches made by my dad, Joe.
5-Year Hope Cosmologist and still showing my horses.
Trainer Advice
Go out there and give it your all.
Horse Partner Thanks Thank you for your partnership and friendship.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs or donkeys.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Peppermints and carrots.
Age: 15 | Paradise Valley, AZ Burkman Centre
Horses: Mac Shoc WA ~ HA Tsamsun ~ Khris Le Doux J ~ Mariano AN ~ LH Stetson TRGR SS Walk The Line | English, Country, Hunter & Western Pleasure, Show Hack Perf. Halter
Dream Vacation
New Zealand
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Devin Miller and Mac Shoc WA
Favorite YN Memory
When I won my first national championship with my horse, Dirty Face.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Playing instruments
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Polenta with sour cream.
5-Year Hope To be in college.
Trainer Advice Have fun!
Horse Partner Thanks For always taking care of me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Birds
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their dishy faces.
JOSHUA
CUNDIFF LEA DEARING
Age: 13 | Scottsdale, AZ
Daniel Training Center
Horses: JTC Thunderstruck ~ Nirvanas Mirage Country, English, Costume & Show Hack
Dream Vacation
Go to Panam at Tropic Star Lodge to fish.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Julie Daniel riding costume.
Favorite YN Memory
When I got my first national championship.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Fishing, snowboarding and hunting.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal My mom’s brisket.
5-Year Hope
I want to be a pro horse rider and pro fisherman or a pro snowboarder.
Trainer Advice
Ride it like you stole it.
Horse Partner Thanks I don’t know what I would do without you, buddy.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Riley, my Husky.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait They always like to snuggle.
Age: 14 | Etowah, TN
Horses SL Wings of Gold Knighttime PhanTsy Sport Horse In-Hand, Halter & Western Dressage
Dream Vacation
Disney World
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo My mom and her horse Knigh
First YN Expectation
I am excited to go to my first Youth Nationals and compete with other kids.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Playing sports.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal I like all food.
5-Year Hope Graduated from high school and working.
Trainer Advice
Just have fun and enjoy your horse.
Horse Partner Thanks Being patient and good to me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Patient
Age: 12 | Canton, GA
Vicki Humphrey Training Center
Horses: Kings Ransum ~ The Black Knight Baske Alarm ~ Hey Siri Hunter, Country, English & Equitation
Dream Vacation
The Cook Islands
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Val and Butters
Favorite YN Memory Winning UPHA Equitation on Kings Ransum in 2022.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Riding at my jumper barn.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak
5-Year Hope Showing Stringer!
Trainer Advice Show ring smile!
Horse Partner Thanks For teaching me through my Walk/Trot years.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dozer, our GWP.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How frisky they can be.
ANNIA GARMENDIANATALIE GAYLORDJULIA GIACOMINI
Age: 13 | Miami, FL
Christy Higman-Clements Training
Horse: Magical Moves
Saddle Seat Equitation & Country
Dream Vacation
I would love to go to Greece.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Ewa Garmendia and The High Sparrow
Favorite YN Memory
When my sister won, and I ran down to congratulate her!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity I love to hang out with my friends and dance.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Lasaña
5-Year Hope A multi-national champion.
Trainer Advice Sit back, chin up, shoulders back.
Horse Partner Thanks For being so sweet.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How sweet they are.
Age: 11 | Paradise Valley, AZ
Colby Powell Performance Horses
Horse: Whata Doc Bar TR
Reining, Ranch Riding & Ranch Rail
Dream Vacation Bahamas
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Colby Powell and Whata Doc Bar TR
Favorite YN Memory
My first National Champion in Equitation.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volleyball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak and mashed potatoes.
5-Year Hope A more accomplished rider.
Trainer Advice Don’t be slouchy.
Horse Partner Thanks For putting up with me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their kindness.
Age: 15 | Woodbury, MN
St. Croix Training Center
Horse: DR Platinum Album
Hunter Pleasure, Equitation & Side Saddle
Dream Vacation Greece
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Jada Reed and BP Maserati
Favorite YN Memory Showing Side Saddle and the high level of competition.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Shopping and hanging out with friends.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Spaghetti
5-Year Hope Going to college and working at the barn.
Trainer Advice It’s not about the ribbon. Enjoy a good ride!
Horse Partner Thanks Always willing to try new things.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their versatility.
Age: 13 | Bucks County, PA
Lyric Phillips
Horse: MJM Daniels Fire Hunter Pleasure & Equitation
Dream Vacation
Traveling through Europe, sightseeing and skiing.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Sharon Blendinger and HA Aristocratic
Favorite YN Memory Winning Reserve National Champion on Red.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Running cross country.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak and mashed potatoes.
5-Year Hope A trainer.
Trainer Advice
Listen to what your horse is telling you.
Horse Partner Thanks Teaching me everything I know.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dogs.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How affectionate they are.
REAGAN HENDERSONSOFIE HOLMES
Age: 14 | Hudsonville, MI
Stachowski Farm / Crystal Farms
Horses: Greta Van Fleet ~ Don’t Steal My Thunder ~ Master N Commandheir Hunter Pleasure & Equitation
Dream Vacation
The Maldives
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Bianca Massman and Dont Stop B-lieven
Favorite YN Memory
Winning reserve in the purebred Equitation last year.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hanging out with my friends.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken Pot Pie
5-Year Hope In college and still with my horses.
Trainer Advice
Enjoy the ride and have fun.
Horse Partner Thanks Always working so hard for me, no matter what.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Giraffe
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their wild and funky spirit.
Age: 14 | Temecula, CA
KRE Show Horses
Horse: Montecristo PR+/ Dressage & Western Dressage
Dream Vacation
European riding facilities
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Kathrine Rich and Primadonna
First YN Expectation
I am most exited for my first class in this environment.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Creating social media.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Grilled cheese and tomato soup.
5-Year Hope Showing my current yearling.
Trainer Advice
You wouldn’t be here if you weren’t ready.
Horse Partner Thanks For having a kind soul 24/7.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Giraffe
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Loyalty
AYDEN KNOWLTON RILEY LALLO JACQUELINE LAPAR
Age: 13 | Rockwall, TX
Krohn Show Horses
Horses: Supreme Commander SMP ~ Royal Kahristo ~ KA Patrriots Dream Country English, Hunter Pleasure & Halter
Dream Vacation
Horseback tour through Europe.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Josie Ragusa and KA Le Tosk
Favorite YN Memory
Every year I love eating ice cream in the stands with my friends.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Art
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Butter Chicken
5-Year Hope A stay-at-home horse girl.
Trainer Advice Don’t do that!
Horse Partner Thanks Bucking when my trainer rides him instead of me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Cats
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their energy and beauty.
Age: 15 | Pearland, TX
Slide to Win
Horses: Arkys Smart Leo Lad SwiftKicknThePantz RA Genuinely A Marquis ~ Elliantra ~ Hesa Comet Working Western, Equitation & Sport Horse
Dream Vacation
I am living my dream vacation, riding horses 8 hours a day, 5.5 days a week!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Gary Ferguson and Arkys Smart Leo Lad
Favorite YN Memory
Getting to ride and learn on my horses and spend time with the best barn!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Is there such a thing?
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Taco Salad
5-Year Hope Training and showing horses.
Trainer Advice
If you make it simple, it is simple.
Horse Partner Thanks Patience and time management.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How personable they all are.
Age: 13 | TX
Bay Area Equestrian Center
Horse: Hollywood Snapchat Ranch Rail, Ranch Riding, Sport Horse & Showmanship
Dream Vacation Cabo, Mexico
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Reining
Favorite YN Memory
When my barn wears the same color shirts on specific days so we all match.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Dance
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Pasta Alla Vodka
5-Year Hope Graduating to a good college.
Trainer Advice Lean back and have fun.
Horse Partner Thanks Because she makes me laugh every time I’m with her.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Guinea Pigs and dogs.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How their necks are shaped.
MARIA LETELLIER
Age: 14 | Granbury, TX
Colonial Wood / Stella Bella Arabians
Horses: Gianni CR ~ Captain Solo ~ Iconic Heir+/ My Summer Princess ~ SHF Daddys Girl+/ Western, Hunter & English Pleasure
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Ryan Moore and Mike Drop
Favorite YN Memory
Showing in Western Pleasure with Chloe Harper in her first year JTR.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Sleeping
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Grandma’s mashed potatoes.
5-Year Hope In college.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dogs and my cat.
Age: 12 | Scottsdale, AZ
Daniel Training Center
Horses Have You Ever Surface To Heir PF English, Country, Show Hack & Costume
Dream Vacation
To see the wild Camargue horses in Southern France.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Lauren Stephenson and JSN Shadows
Favorite YN Memory
Riding and earning National Champion with GSF Nicolette at YN in 2 2 !
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Photographing animals and birds in nature.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
My mom’s chicken pot pie.
5-Year Hope
I hope to be in an education program focused on helping horses!
Trainer Advice
Ride it like you mean it.
Horse Partner Thanks For teaching me to work hard and ride my best.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My guinea pig, Arthur!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait
Their big, beautiful eyes and their loyalty!
Age: 14 | Fall City, WA
Stachowski Farm
Horses: DFH Magic Struck JS Struttin on Afhire Country Pleasure & Saddle Seat Equitation
Dream Vacation
Hawaii
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Sophie Yih and Stars
Favorite YN Memory
Top Ten H/A English JTR on Lady Ava Isabella last year.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volleyball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Tacos
5-Year Hope In college near the beach!
Trainer Advice
Don’t look down! Don’t fight with your horse.
Horse Partner Thanks
For his big heart and teaching me so much.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dogs at home!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait
Their big personalities and kind, loving eyes.
Age: 14 | Sarasota, FL
Christy Higman-Clements Training
Horses: Hot Rodder PF ~ In Quest
Country English Pleasure & Costume
Dream Vacation Paris, France
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Rex White and Extremely Fortunut
Favorite YN Memory Winning a costume class.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Playing tennis.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Summer Steak Salad
5-Year Hope Attending a good college.
Trainer Advice Keep your knees on the saddle.
Horse Partner Thanks Putting up with my mistakes.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My bunny.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their get up and go.
Age: 12 | Mason City, IA
Sapphire Ribbions
Horse: QH Magellan Show Hack & Native Costume
Dream Vacation Lapland, Finland, because it’s really pretty.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Joel Gangi and Barcelona BF
Favorite YN Memory
The water balloon fight at the end of the show.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volleyball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak
5-Year Hope A National Champion.
Trainer Advice Just suck it up, he won’t kill you.
Horse Partner Thanks Being a unique character.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Duke, my Lab.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their personality.
Age: 14 | Phoenix, AZ
Stachowski Farm / Colby Powell
Performance Horses
Horses: Nutorious ~ Seeking Heir DA Its My Turn ~ Ima Hollywood Star Saddle Seat & Reining
Dream Vacation Paris
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Sophie Yih and A Thousand Stars
Favorite YN Memory
My first Youth Nationals win with Hinged in Heaven in 10 & Under.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Being with friends.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Lasagna
5-Year Hope In a good college.
Trainer Advice Breathe.
Horse Partner Thanks Being my partner in all the classes we do.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How they always try their hardest.
Age: 11 | Houston, TX
Horses: Nuttin To It ~ Whizkey On Fire
Kowboy Kool CCF
Reining, Equitation, English Pleasure & Park
Dream Vacation Hawaii
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Eddie McCain and Nat King Cole CA
Favorite YN Memory
Winning champion last year.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Anything art related.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Stuffed Bell Peppers
5-Year Hope
An even better Champion.
Trainer Advice
Just don’t die.
Horse Partner Thanks Keeping me safe.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Wolf
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait
The way they hold their head and tail.
Age: 11 | Phoenix, AZ
Daniel Training Center
Horses: Song In The Heir ~ Majestic High Country English Pleasure & Equitation
Dream Vacation Bahamas
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Helena Spandau and SF Major Shoc
Favorite YN Memory
The first time that I trotted in the gateway.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Volleyball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Spaghetti
5-Year Hope
I hope to be a better rider than I am today.
Trainer Advice
Heels down and point your toes to the horse’s ears.
Horse Partner Thanks For always trying her best.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Duke, my dog.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their gentleness.
Age Lafayette, CA
Stachowski Farm / Earthquake Arabians
Horses KF Amour Magnifie Moves Afire WA ~ Olivia Pope ~ Amanda’s Song
Saddle Seat Equitation, Show Hack, Country & Western Pleasure
Dream Vacation Greece!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Alexa Gilbert and Nutcracker King MA
Favorite YN Memory
Winning the Arabian Equitation last year with Olivia Pope unanimously for the 2nd year!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Playing lacrosse!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Zucchini Boats!
5-Year Hope
Playing a sport in college at a D1 school!
Trainer Advice
Practice like you never won, show like you never lost.
Horse Partner Thanks For their love for showing!
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Our Labs!
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their love for life!
ELLIE WILSON NOELLE YANDELL
Age: 12 | MO
ChriShan Park Arabians
Horses: Prosperity LR ~ Cecilia X ~ CSP
Grand Caymon King Of Diamonds HHF
Show Hack, Equitation, Park, English, Costume & Country
Dream Vacation Italy
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Jennifer Hagale and I Love Luci!
Favorite YN Memory
Showing I Love Luci in Walk/Trot English and winning, with my BFF getting reserve.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hanging out with friends.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
My mom’s chili and my dad’s pork chops.
5-Year Hope
Turning 17.
Trainer Advice
Just do what everyone else is doing but better.
Horse Partner Thanks I would thank Grand Caymon for recovering well.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal The barn donkey.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their recognizable dish.
Age: 15 | Thousand Oaks, CA TB Equine
Horses: Crowd Appeal TB ~ Locomotion BV Flameworthy TRGR
Hunter Pleasure, Native Costume, Country & Show Hack
Dream Vacation Paris, France
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Emily Holden and Dante Afire
Favorite YN Memory
Sharing an amazing experience with my horse.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Spending time with my friends and family.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Biscuits, eggs and bacon.
5-Year Hope In college studying to be a Forensic Scientist.
Trainer Advice
Take a deep breath and relax.
Horse Partner Thanks Always trying his hardest to please me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their wide eyes and perky ears.
mem ies
Age: 11 | Cave Creek, AZ
Burkman Centre
Horses: Van Almaden ~ Gentleman’s Quarterly++/ ~ Secret Lil Princes CB Hunter & Western
Dream Vacation It would for sure be Spain!
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Teagan Anschuetz and Dutch Chocolate
Favorite YN Memory
When I won Reserve Champion in my first hunter class.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity For sure, volleyball!
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Hamburgers for sure!
5-Year Hope Driving a new Jeep!
Trainer Advice Just do your best.
Horse Partner Thanks For being such a good horse.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs and Pandas.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How they are just so kind and sweet.
Age: 10 | Scottsdale, AZ
Bein Performance Horses Horses: Good N Plennty+// ~ TA Hermes Adessa SS+// Ranch Riding and Rail, Short Stirrup, Trail & Showmanship
Dream Vacation Hawaii for a month.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo My mom on Twylite Zone+//.
Favorite YN Memory Showing Twylite in Short Stirrup.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Football
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Sourdough waffles
5-Year Hope Playing football in high school.
Trainer Advice Put in the work.
Horse Partner Thanks For being so “Good” (get it … “Good” N Plennty).
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Chickens
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait How they like to be my friends and work hard.
Age: 11 | Rentz, GA
Dale Brown Performance Horses
Horse: ABD Verona Western Pleasure & Western Seat Equitation
Dream Vacation
Horseback riding through Montana.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Haley Hines and DA Accenti
First YN Expectation Showing ABD Verona this year.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Baking donuts.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Tacos
5-Year Hope A better rider.
Trainer Advice Don’t ever quit.
Horse Partner Thanks For listening to me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My Angus Cows.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their beauty.
10 & UNDER
ALBERTA WHITE CAREYSOPHIA DANKOVICHREAGAN DEMEL
Age: 9 | Phoenix, AZ
Burkman Centre
Horse: Dream of Love Country English
Dream Vacation Ireland
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Taryn and Dream of Love
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Fencing
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Banana Bread
5-Year Hope The best youth rider I can be.
Trainer Advice Just breathe.
Horse Partner Thanks For keeping me safe and teaching me to ride.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Tiger
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their fire!
Age: 10 | Flushing, MI
Rooker Training Stable / Cotton
Performance Horses
Horses: Heir Canada AA CPH It’s Cello Time ~ Magnolia Bey EW
Saddle Seat, Western & Hunt Seat
Hawaii
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Shawn Rooker and my horse, Toby!
Favorite YN Memory
Winning a top ten plaque at my First Youth Nnationals 2 years ago.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Watercolor painting
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Spaghetti and meatballs
5-Year Hope Working in the barn assisting my trainers.
Trainer Advice Ride him like you own him and own the arena!
Horse Partner Thanks They have taught me to be confident.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My dog, Spirit.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their versatility and beauty.
Age: 9 | Conroe, TX
Goslin Nix Equestrian Center
Horse: Dun and Done+/ Short Stirrup, Ranch, Equitation & Sport Horse
Dream Vacation Paris, France
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Fallon Taylor, Matt Mills and Aubree my best friend.
Favorite YN Memory & Expectation Getting to ride every day!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Read books, currently Dork Diaries.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Tacos!
5-Year Hope Even better at riding.
Trainer Advice Heels down and have fun.
Horse Partner Thanks Being a good boy for me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Bunnies
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait They can do everything from country English to reining.
Dream Vacation
Age: 10 | Grove, OK Vallejo III, Inc.
Horses: Sahara Jewel V ~ Shiloh Julien V SH Smoke N’ Sparks Western, Short Stirrup Reining & Ranch Rail
Dream Vacation The mountains.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Any of the Park riders - it’s so exciting!
Favorite YN Memory & Expectation Hanging out with my family and win National Champion.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Gymnastics and Contortion.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Lasagna
5-Year Hope National Champion in every event I do.
Trainer Advice Go get em’ Cowgirl.
Horse Partner Thanks Being my best friend.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Ripp, my dog.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Stamina
Age: 6 | Grove, OK Vallejo III, Inc.
Horse: ROL What An Angel Hunter & Western
Dream Vacation Pennsylvania
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo My sisters, Alice on Smoke and Lyla on Amayzing.
Favorite YN Memory
Winning my last Lead Line class and winning the stick horse races.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Hang out with my family and play with my cousins.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Ramen Noodles
5-Year Hope
I haven’t really figured that out yet.
Trainer Advice Don’t stick something up in front of a horse’s face.
Horse Partner Thanks For letting me ride on her.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs and cats.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait She can canter and rear up.
Age: 8 | Grove, OK Vallejo III, Inc.
Horses: Amayzing Moon ~ Goldd Streak Kid Rock PCA
Hunter & Country Pleasure
Dream Vacation Africa
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Ms. Katie Hart and Kid Rock PCA
Favorite YN Memory Winning Reserve Champion on Goldd Streak in Hunter Pleasure W/T last year.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Nothing. I live to ride.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Steak and White Chicken Chili.
5-Year Hope A multi-National Champion rider.
Trainer Advice Switch! (your diagonal)
Horse Partner Thanks Listening to me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Ruby Kitty
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Everything
CHEYENNE ROSE GILLESPIE
Age: 11 | Weatherford, TX
Tamar Arabians / Colonial Wood
Horses: Tamar Romantica ~ Tamar Elegant
Miss ~ TOA Khadence ~ CP Solar Flare
WS Couture | Country, Hunter, Western, Sport
Horse, Dressage & Halter
Dream Vacation Albania
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Brynden Lopez and Tamar Rubicon
Favorite YN Memory Winning Reserve Champion in 2023 in the western equitation.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Ballet
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Anything potato.
5-Year Hope Still riding horses.
Trainer Advice Have showy hands.
Horse Partner Thanks For always being there with me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Lemon Shark
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their stamina.
Age: 8 | TX
Bay Area Equestrian Center
Horse: Hollywood Snapchat Showmanship
Dream Vacation Paris, France
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Western Trail
Favorite YN Memory Spending time with my friends.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Dance
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Nachos
5-Year Hope Winning a Youth National Championship.
Trainer Advice Believe in yourself and be confident.
Horse Partner Thanks For making my family and I happy.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Guinea Pigs
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their personalities.
Age: 11 | Albany, GA
Vicki Humphrey Training Center
Horse: CS Damage Control Country English & Saddle Seat Equitation
Walk/Trot
Dream Vacation Hawaii
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Lizzy Dearing and King’s Ransum
First YN Expectation Competing on my horse at a national level.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Soccer
Favorite Home Cooked Meal My dad’s grilled steak.
5-Year Hope A Youth National Champion.
Trainer Advice Slow your horse down!
Horse Partner Thanks For taking care of me and helping me to win.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs … especially my two.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their beautiful neck.
Photo by Hell’s Half Acre
Age: 11 | Wakeman, OH
Sutton Stables Horse: Red Dawnn
Hunter Pleasure & Equitation
Dream Vacation
Costa Rica to ride horses on the beach.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
My mom showing my horse, Sassy.
Favorite YN Memory
Showing my horse and making lots of new friends!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Soccer! I play for Internationals Soccer Club.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Tacos and ribs.
5-Year Hope
Driving the truck and trailer to shows myself!
Trainer Advice
Keep your elbows in and legs back.
Horse Partner Thanks Being a good girl and not a bucking bronco!
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Elephant
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Their dished faces.
Age: 8 | TX
Tamar Arabians / Colonial Wood / Dublin
Performance Horses / Troy White Training
Horses: Caliente Virtuoso ~ Volturri
Tamar Camelot ~ JSN Reinman
Short Stirrup, Trail, Ranch & Halter
Dream Vacation
Alaska to go hunting.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Josh Quintus and Volturi
Favorite YN Memory
Winning two national championships when I was 5 years old!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Baseball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Surf and Turf cooked by my dad and Josh.
Trainer Advice Bump and kick at the same time.
Horse Partner Thanks For teaching me to ride.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Age: 10 | Springdale, AR
Harris Show Horses
Horses: Fatal Attraction DB ~ TR Poseidon Western Pleasure & Western Seat Equitation
Dream Vacation
Europe to visit World War I and II sites.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo
Greg Harris and Diesel Smoke
Favorite YN Memory Winning two reserve championships.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity
Playing middie with my travel lacrosse team.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal
My dad’s smoked hamburgers.
5-Year Hope
Riding a junior horse that we bred.
Trainer Advice Relax!
Horse Partner Thanks Being a good girl.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Our Poodle.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Stamina
youth 2024
ELLIE SHAE SHARMAN
Age: 11 | Magalia, CA
Gretchen McDaniel Horse: Atom Blonde RA+ Pleasure, Ranch Rail, Showmanship, Reining & Trail
Dream Vacation In my grammie’s barn.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo Matt Mills and Andre Fappani
Favorite YN Memory EVERYTHING!
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Softball
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Tacos
5-Year Hope Driving myself to shows.
Trainer Advice Be a partner with your horse.
Horse Partner Thanks For loving me.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal Dogs
Age: 10 | Wellington, FL
Casperey Stables Horse: SAR Jasmine Hunter, Dressage, Cross-Rails, Equitation & In-Hand
Dream Vacation NIHI Sumba in Indonesia where the horses run wild.
Favorite Horse/Rider Combo McLain Ward and “Annie” (HH Azure)
First YN Expectation I am most excited for Crossrails.
Favorite Non-Horse Activity Gymnastics and skiing.
Favorite Home Cooked Meal Chicken noodle soup and potatoes au gratin.
5-Year Hope
Riding in a costume class, jumping 2’9” Eq., and riding First Level Dressage.
Trainer Advice Trust in your horse. Trust in you!
Horse Partner Thanks Being there to help me heal after every surgery.
Favorite Non-Horse Animal My Boston Terrier, Petunia.
Favorite Arabian Horse Trait Loyalty, willingness and sensitivity.
Photo by Liz Crawley Photogrgaphy
mem ies
RainieKuchynka
By ALLY EDWARDS
ive years ago, for her 12th birthday, Rainie Kuchynka asked for a cell phone. Instead, her parents got her horseback riding lessons at Tyler Farms, an Arabian barn. It was there, that Rainie caught the bug.
After six months, her family bought her first horse, Frankly Sinatra, and she began showing in hunter at local shows. A few months later, Rainie began lessons at Apex Riding Academy at Daniel Training Center in saddle seat. At Youth Nationals 2020, Rainie competed in the Experience Youth academy classes and she was officially hooked!
Billy The Khyd, Rainie's first National Championship.
It was at DTC where the family purchased and spent the next year competing in country with Rainie’s next horse, Dream of Love, before there was a need to find this self-proclaimed “barn rat” somewhere close to home when the family moved in 2021. Coupled with Rainie wanting to try additional disciplines brought them to Ramirez Training Center.
Now, four years later, at Youth Nationals 2024, Rainie will show seven horses: Tooskcandalous RT, Boogie Man LR, Billy The Khyd, Cracker Jax PF, HA The Weekend, Toskcan N Turnin RT and Bravissimo PF. Aside from Boogie, Rainie’s heart horse, who she is still super excited to show at Youth again, Rainie is looking forward to riding Tooskcandalous in the Half-Arabian English and Park. The mare was young when they bought her, so Rainie had to be patient while Skcandalous matured, and she grew as a rider before she could show her confidently.
Rainie’s mother, Brenda, mentioned that the Arabian horse has changed the trajectory of their entire family’s lives. They now live on a property in Arizona that’s home to their many horses. The Kuchynkas have recently gotten involved with breeding, so they have some young ones alongside Rainie’s 17-year-old retired first boy, Frankly Sinatra. “There’s just something about the Arabian, not just physically, but their personality as well,” Brenda said. “It was just by luck she started with Arabians, but I don’t think we would be so involved if we had started somewhere else.”
The horses have also done wonders for Rainie physically, as well. Born with an immunodeficiency and a fused ankle, Rainie had ankle surgery, six months before her first lesson and since starting to ride, there’s been no need for more surgeries and her range of motion is better than ever. And because of the immunodeficiency, Rainie switched to homeschooling at age 11 when regular school kept getting her sick, but the barn families she’s met through Arabians have been the best for her, keeping her from being isolated due to not attending traditional school.
Rainie and her family adore the barn family they’ve joined at Ramirez Training Center. Rainie mentioned how close she’s gotten to the Ramirez family from riding, as well as dating Junior, Rene’s son. “Rene is so kind and talented, and keeps all of the horses in great shape, while Sandra is so hard working and loves the horses,” she said. “It’s a family business and I’m grateful to be a part of the team.” Because everyone is so supportive and drama free, they would choose Ramirez Training any day.
Rainie has soared in her four years of showing, adding many roses to her name. To anyone just starting to show, she says, “You’re going to have ups and downs but don’t let it get to you and always try to have a positive attitude.” While the phone technically might have been the cheaper option, her grit, perseverance, and all the other lessons learned through her Arabians are priceless. With passionate young riders like Rainie, the future of the Arabian horse is bright. n
Left Rainie’s heart horse, Boogie Man LR, shows off his huge personality after their Scottsdale win.
Frankly Sinatra, Rainie's first show horse now living the retired life.
“HeartJourney An Arabian Horse”
Jaxon Sharif caught AHT’s attention of when she was first featured on “We Love Arabian Horses” website under the headline “Then & Now”.
From Pleasant Hope, MO, Jaxon shared a “Then” image of her and CSP The First Lady, aka Journey from 2021 with the comment: The day I brought her home, November 14th, 2021... I had no clue what I was getting into!
She then followed it up with the “Now”, when in 2023, she says: We were running home after our very first 21 second pole run! Everyone was cheering and my dreams were coming true! Journey was my first Arabian and my heart horse, she will stay with me forever. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Jaxon and Journey went on to place 3D-12th in the insurance race at the 2024 BBR World Finals.
Bred by Doug Schultz and Chris Wilson in 2016, CSP The First Lady is by the MHR Nobility son Mizter President VA and out of Venuz, by VCP Magnifire (a maternal sister to both National Champion and Champion producing stallions Vegaz and SHF Encore). Wilson is thrilled to be part of her creation. “It is truly what makes horses so special, the bond that we form with them. This was meant to be. She was bred to be athletic, so it is great to see that coming to fruition, even if in a different direction than we were thinking! I hope my daughter Annabelle will get into barrel racing one of these days. We watched some at a competition during the Thanksgiving show in Ocala last fall in a back arena and she loved it. We will be going to watch The First Lady soon.” Schultz concurs with Wilson’s sentiments. “As breeders, we hope our horses get to do what they love with owners that love them, and certainly that’s the case with these two! It is an absolute joy to watch someone develop with a horse we bred whose wonderful athletic ability allows her to excel in an area we did not anticipate. Congrats to you both!”
AHT caught up to 16-year-old Jaxon to learn more about her and Journey.
How did you find Journey?
We rst heard about Journey from an old friend who knew somebody with a trail horse for sale, so we went to look at her in November of 2021.
What made you consider an Arabian horse?
I wasn’t necessarily looking for an Arabian, but God had a plan and brought us together.
Was Journey’s first experience in barrel racing with you?
Yes.
How long does it take to train a barrel racing horse?
It all depends on the horse; some learn faster than others! It took me about 8 months to train Journey to the barrels.
What was it about Journey that you felt she had potential?
She was always willing and eager to please. When we rst got her, we did jumping and hunt seat together and soon realized she wanted to go much faster.
How long have you been barrel racing? Around 18 months.
What is Journey’s favorite treat?
She loves Sour Patch Kids! As odd as it sounds, we give Journey a small pack of Sour Patch Kids approximately 5 minutes before each run. We like to call it her special treat and I do believe it makes her run faster.
For someone new to barrel racing but interested in trying it, what advice would you give?
Keep trying; it will get hard, and you will have slumps, but once you get over it, it’s so worth it in the end!
Does barrel racing run in your family?
No, I am a rst-generation, self-taught barrel racer!
Do you like to ride in other disciplines?
Yes! I love to jump for fun at home. Journey and I also pole bend and goat tie.
Does Journey let you know if she is ready to run some days more than others?
How important is the bond that you have with one another to competing successfully?
What’s next on your “journey” together?
We will be heading to Perry, Georgia for the 2024 NBHA Youth & Teen World Championships in July and I can’t wait!
#JaxonsJourney
Do you have a heart horse story to share?
Contact AHT: o ce@ahtimes.com
& Now
Absolutely! If Journey is feeling more excited, she will let me know, mostly in the warmup pen, by behaving more hot and ready to run.
I think having a bond with your horse is super important, especially when racing. It is crucial in order to have clean runs.
At the 2024 BBR World Finals, how many horses did you compete against in your division?
ere were 1,828 runners in my division but over 2,000 runners throughout the entire week.
What must you accomplish beforehand to enter the Better Barrel Racers World Finals?
You must be a member, which you can do on the BBR website and enter at least eight endorsed shows put on by BBR quali ed events.
What do you and Journey do together on your off days?
We do a lot of posture and corrective stretching work. We love to go swimming together and go on long trail rides.
