Price Performance Horses, published in Arabian Horse Times

PRICE PERFORMANCE HORSES

Priceless Memories

by SARAH JAYNE JOHNSON

The name Kevin Price has been known throughout the industry for quite some time. He is known for his training ability, but also for his sense of humor and being an overall blast to be around. He has worked with some of the most wellknown training facilities over the years, such as, Cedar Ridge Arabians and Empress Arabians. However, Kevin and his wife, Gretchen, made the decision to open their own farm, Price Performance Horses.

A full-service training operation located in New Berlin, Wisconsin, they specialize in training and showing both purebred and Half-Arabian horses in a variety of different disciplines, including English Pleasure, Park, Driving, Western, Hunt, Show Hack and Native Costume.

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Chad & Marcy Judy and Kevin & Gretchen Price at Empress Arabians.

Kevin initially worked with Chad Judy at Empress Arabians when he entered the industry, and to this day, the two are still good friends, proving they worked well together with their success in the show ring. Chad explains, “I’m lucky to call Kevin a friend. We worked together for a few years and I learned a lot from him.

He’s one of the hardest working horse trainers out there. Everyone loves Kevin; he’s smart and extremely talented. You can tell Kevin is very committed to the Arabian and is doing the best he can for his clients.”

Speaking of Gretchen, Judy effuses, “She is one of the hardest workers and teammates I have ever known.

She is incredibly dedicated to her horses and animals in general. She has such a big heart and she and Kevin work really well together.”

Sharing some of his memories with Kevin and Gretchen, Judy’s favorites were their trips to shows together. Best road trip person? Gretchen—who is known throughout the industry as a huge foodie—as many dinners consisted of brownie sundaes.

If there was anyone, Judy says he could call in this industry to hang out with and have a good time, it was Gretchen and Kevin, “because there are no couples as fun as the two of them.”

After their time with Empress Arabians, Kevin and Gretchen moved to Cedar Ridge Arabians, where Kevin worked for a stretch with great success before opening their own barn. Says Lara Ames, “There is no couple that is harder working than Kevin and Gretchen. We have many great memories with both. Our proudest may have been when Kevin drove Toi Jabaska to a National Championship. It was an amazing class and Kevin presented her beautifully.”

Dream On An On

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Multi-National Champion Toi Jabaska and Kevin Price.

It is clear Kevin’s personality and sense of humor is second to none. One of his good friends, Rob Bick, claims Price as being one of the most hard-working horsemen he knows. Bick’s admiration for Price stems from the effort Kevin puts into his horses to make each one of them the best they can be. Outside of the business, Bick recalls his experience learning how to scuba dive with Price, where Bick said Price almost killed him in the learning process, but it was still a great time.

Another good friend of Kevin’s is Jody Strand. The first time Jody and Kevin hung out, they did not know one another; both were going on vacation with a group of people. Remembering his first impression of Kevin, Jody shares, “Having only seen him around at nationals, he looked so serious, I didn’t know what to expect. We all went to dinner that night and we ended up sitting next to one another. We got to talking and I realized how he was pretty funny and pretty cool. We just hit it off. I told him how cool I thought he was, because he seemed unapproachable before, and that’s how we became friends.”

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Jody agrees with Bick’s assessment that Kevin is one of the hardest working men he knows. He is one of a few people who can compete in all the different disciplines. “He just works his tail off. You can see him warming up all these different types of horses—costume, driving, hunter, show hack—he’s just everywhere, and he does a good job with all of them.”

Another aspect of what makes the Prices so special to the industry?

Jody says, “What I notice about Kevin at a show is how big his clientele is, and how he tries so hard on every single horse. He has the two things that this industry and every industry need to be successful: he is a lot of fun with a great personality and he turns out a great product.”

The clientele and how Kevin turns out a product has a lot to do with the work behind the scenes, which is where Gretchen comes in. She makes sure the barn is running at its full potential and is known as the literal backbone of the operation. Grooming, clipping, tacking, hauling, the organizer and the go-to when something needed to be handled, it’s been said, there was nothing Gretchen could not do.

Also good friends with Kevin is Josh Quintus, despite Kevin asking Josh to head a horse for him in a driving class years ago, where Josh claims Kevin tried to kill him. During the victory lap the cart broke and Kevin had to long line the horse out. What Josh took away from that class was Kevin is not very good on his feet, even though he played high school football. Josh says, “Kevin is one of the really good guys in the Arabian horse business. He focuses on what is good for the long run of the industry. He does the time and community work, and he focuses on how to make Multi-National Champion & Reserve Champion Tomage

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it last and be successful.”

The only improvement Josh could give Kevin, “He could work on his handeye coordination!”

It is clear people want to be around Kevin, because he is fun and easy to be around, as well as knowing you’re going to get a hard-working trainer who will do the best he can for you. “He just has the tools to be successful and he’s a good guy to be around,” Jody says.

Jim Lowe is a trainer known for his wild sense of humor and his unreadable Facebook posts. However, Jim claims Kevin will give him a run for his money when it comes down to a good laugh, especially at Canadian Nationals.

Canada would not be the same without the “prank war” between both; one of Lowe’s favorite escapades. Besides being a great prankster, Lowe sees Kevin for the great horseman that he is. “He has a very strong passion for training Arabian horses and being the best he can be. He just exudes passion in all aspects of his training, and it is evident in the show ring.”

Not to be outdone, one of the first horse shows Brian Murch remembers being at with Kevin was back in 2001 in Syracuse, New York, where their own prank war started. One night, Kevin went and turned all of Brian’s decorations and equipment upside down. Brian’s payback was to hide all of Kevin’s tack in the trailer. This friendly battle has lasted over a decade, with moments of great respect in-between. Echoing those above, “Kevin is a sound and solid horseman, doing what is best for the horse, says Murch. “He is an extremely hard worker and just a good person. He is also a good trainer; someone who we as a breed should be proud to have in the industry.”

Top: Multi-National Champion Toi Slamtastic CRF Right: Multi-National Champion and Reserve Champion All Charisma

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Beyond prank wars, Kevin has won countless championships from the regional to national level. And his hard work shows through the happiness of his clients and his dedication to the breed.

Kevin’s secret weapon? Gretchen, Murch believes. “She is such a big part of the whole equation,” Murch explains, “between business and making sure everything runs smoothly. She jumps in and helps and does everything she needs to do. For years, she has been at his side doing what needs to be done.”

Over the years, Kevin and Gretchen have made a tremendous impact on the industry; one which does not go unnoticed, and which continues to foster priceless memories. ■

K EVIN

G R ETCHEN P R ICE • TR AINERS : K EVIN P R ICE , K EN P R ICE , KYLE P R ICE ROAD, N EW B ER LIN , WI 53146 • 612-418-8401 • PR ICEPER FOR M ANCE @ YAHOO.COM W W W. PR ICEPER FOR M ANCEHORSES .COM

AND

19805 W. L AWNSDALE

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i

(Afire Bey V x Ebony & Pearls)

Kevin and Gretchen, Thank you for all the great memories and the lessons that came with them! —The Keegan Family

i There are no words to describe how thankful I am to have joined the PPH team. I would not be the rider or the person I am today without Kevin, Gretchen, Kenny and the rest of the PPH family. I am so blessed to be a part of something so wonderful. I have learned so much about horses, riding and life at PPH. I have learned that it is important to work hard, and to get back up after something goes wrong, but I have also learned how to have huge amounts of fun. I have many favorite memories while at the barn and at shows.

Also, a huge thank you to Kevin for finding me two amazing horses and for training them and me to be two perfect partners. I can never say thank you enough for all the experiences I have had as a part of the PPH family.

I could never imagine my life without PPH in it.

(Afire Bey V x Blues For Elkana)

Gretchen and Kevin, You and everyone at PPH are like family to us! Thank you for all the wonderful times over the last four years and for helping Emma become the confident rider she is today!

Lots of love, Emma, Dave and Kate Nikolai

CF

i

(Matoi x West Coast Celebrity)

Love, Emma

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“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.”

Oprah Winfrey

Kevin and Gretchen, Thank you for helping a mother and daughter live out their adventures with you and making our dreams come true! We are looking forward to many more.

—Amy and Hunter Offord

BF

Maverick+

(AA Apollo Bey x Callaways Annie Laurie)

There are so many reasons to say "thank you" to Kevin, Ken, Gretchen and all the talented and caring people that surround them. Having a beautiful facility is a plus, but it is what goes on behind the scenes every day that makes their operation so special. Each horse is cared for with the utmost attention to their wellbeing and is doing the job they are most suited for. As a client, I have always received the encouragement (including sometimes, a kind dose of reality) and guidance I need to be successful and enjoy my horses. That success is a combination of great training and management, and the opportunity to ride with the tools I need to create the best performance. The friendship, patience, and uncompromising work ethic that IS Price Performance Horses, makes it my favorite place to recharge!

i

i

(Millennium LOA x Baaska)

Revolution

SCA

(Afire Bey V x Sable SMA)

—Kathy Justinger

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To the best trainer in New Berlin, WI and G, We’ve been with you a long time and made a lot of memories—it’s been fun. You and G have become like family and always will be. Remember, Kevin, to ride pretty. Thanks anyway.

Love, Doug & Jess DeBack

(Forrest Afire x Mon Talani)

Dear Kevin, You are one of the top ten trainers in the whole world! I like that you do not make me work too hard. I’m so sassy to you because you are like family.

Love, Ruby

These past 3 years have probably been the best ones of my life. I would need a chapter book to share all the laughs, tough/good rides, and just horse memories in general to express what brought all of us together. Thank you for never giving up on me and for making me the rider and the person I am today; I couldn’t have done it without all your love and support, Kevin and Gretchen, and the whole PPH group.

—Allie Guenette Kevin and Gretchen, Thank you for your time, effort, love and understanding, as well as your confidence in my daughter. I will always be grateful to you both and the PPH family.

—Dawn Guenette

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i

PF

(Afires Heir x VTM Pistachia)

Kevin and Gretchen, You have become more like family than anything else to us. While we have worked for you shoeing horses for years, now we appreciate the personal integrity that goes with being a part of PPH. You are truly the best of the best and always go the extra mile to ensure the horse always comes first. Thank you, both, for your honesty, love and laughs.

—Jim and Pam Dalrymple

From

Country to Cowboy

i

(AA Apollo Bey x Ultra DHH)

“Thank you, Kevin and Gretchen, for the RIDES of our LIVES! We really appreciate how hard you work, and how much you care!”

—Laurie & Bill Ferry

(Jullyen El Jamaal x Lalique V)

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Kevin and Gretchen, Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and my family.

You took all my goals and dreams and exceeded every one of them. We love you and our PPH family!

—Cassie, Randy and Deedee Hurst

MD

Belshazzar+// (A Major Fire x Dilemme)

(KM Bugatti x Bint Anastaziaa)

Kevin and Gretchen, You’re always on the correct diagonal, You’re always on the correct lead, And you’re always collected.

Thanks for being the best!

—Terry, Catherine and Adriana Skelding

++++// (Bucharest V x Lorraine O’Lee)

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Dear Kevin and Gretchen, Congratulations on all that you have achieved. We were honored to have so many special moments with you all. You both have such a strong work ethic and dedication to your profession.

Love, Dick, Lollie, and Lara

Dick, Lollie & Lara Ames | Jordan, Minnesota www.Cedar-Ridge.com

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Alkhemy (First Cyte x Padrons Nike)

ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY WITH KELLY DZURICK ARABIAN HUNTER PLEASURE JUNIOR HORSE WITH KEVIN PRICE OWNED

BY

KELLY DZURICK

Dear Kevin, I brought you a green horse and asked you to get him ready for an amateur rider with orthopedic leg issues.

Not only did you make that happen, but we have had a lot of success, and more importantly, a lot of fun!

Your dedication to what you do is is second to none.

Katie and I are very grateful for all that you, Gretchen, and the PPH staff do for us! Thank you!

—Kelly and Katie Dzurick

(Enzo x Princess Huck V)

i io

ARABIAN WESTERN PLEASURE OPEN WITH KEVIN PRICE OWNED BY CHARLOTTE KLETECKA Kevin, I sincerely appreciate the wonderful care and training you have provided for my Bella and Paradizio, as well as the patience and hard work in preparing this rider for a new division.

—Char Kletecka

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Inquiries welcome

i

Rich

SCA

(Afire Bey V x Two to Tango SCA)

ARA RABIAN R BIAN PARK RK AAOT AAOTR ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR 40 & OVER

OWNED

AND SHOWN BY

JOSEPH BURICH

Dear Kevin, When Linda died, I needed a happy place. You said, “Come and hang out with us at the barn.” I love spending time with you, the horses, the dogs, Gretchen, Ken, Kyle and the whole PPH family.

You have helped Biggie and I accumulate a lot of wins. When we do well, I am as happy for you as I am for myself, because it is a testament to your skills in training and preparing the horses, and your ability to coach and teach an old man some new things. While I value those skills, more importantly, I value your friendship.

Thank you for all you do for me and the horses, and thank you for giving me a happy place.

—Joe Burich 2018 & 2016 CANADIAN NATIONAL CHAMPION ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR 40 & OVER 2018 & 2016 CANADIAN NATIONAL CHAMPION PARK AOTR www.PricePerformanceHorses.com

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Kevin and Gretchen, You are not only great people to work with, you have also become good friends. Thank you for many wonderful wins.

—Susan Meyer James

Baske

VA

(Baske Afire x Balquelotta V)

ARABIAN COUNTRY PLEASURE DRIVING

WITH

KEVIN PRICE

OWNED BY SUSAN MEYER JAMES

It has been a pleasure driving my mother’s horses with you. Kevin and Gretchen, you have made it a lot of fun and I appreciate our victories together!

—Elizabeth James-Lipscomb

2017 U.S. RESERVE NATIONAL CHAMPION ARABIAN COUNTRY PLEASURE DRIVING 2017 & 2016 CANADIAN NATIONAL CHAMPION ARABIAN COUNTRY PLEASURE DRIVING www.PricePerformanceHorses.com

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(Black Daniels x MD Aquarius)

ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR 40 & OVER ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY WITH JEAN M. O’LEARY OWNED

BY:

SUNSHINE ARABIANS, LLC Kevin, Thank you for the great job and care you have given our mares Countess de Black and Toing with Fire; your attention to detail is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for the warm welcome that you, Gretchen, and all of your clients have given us. We look forward to many future successes!

—Jean and Jeff

2018 CANADIAN NATIONAL RESERVE CHAMPION ARABIAN ENGLISH PLEASURE AAOTR 40 & OVER

www.PricePerformanceHorses.com

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i

(IXL Noble Express x Sweet Summer Fire)

ARABIAN PARK HORSE WITH KEVIN PRICE OWNED BY MADELINE REDDEN

Kevin and Gretchen, Thank you for taking my mom and I in when things weren’t going well for us. We’ll forever be grateful that you convinced us to buy this tiny little bay purebred who ended up being a very special park horse. We are so thankful we were able to share all of these moments with PPH. —Madeline and Susan

Offered For Sale 2017 U.S. AND CANADIAN NATIONAL CHAMPION ARABIAN PARK HORSE

www.PricePerformanceHorses.com

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KT

Rio (Undulata’s Nutcracker x VTM Pistachia)

AEPA Equine Athlete $50,000 Half-Arabian English Pleasure Futurity with Kevin Price Owned

by

Abigail Smith

Dear Kevin, Having started riding with you as a youth and successfully shown several horses all consistently placing in the top ten, your farm has always been a safe environment for me, except when I have to ride the “wild ones” (I won’t name any names, but one horse in particular, Sprinkles, comes to mind!).

Without your help, guidance and patience, that horse would not be in the show ring today.

Thank you for all you and Gretchen do to ensure me and my horses are the best we can be! Shorten your reins, chin up and ride pretty!

Love your favorite client, Abby www.PricePerformanceHorses.com

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Supremely Royal

SOF

(VJ Royal Heir x A Love Supreme) Bred by Kelli Aguirre, Southern Oaks Farm

ARABIAN COUNTRY ENGLISH PLEASURE FUTURITY WITH KEVIN PRICE OWNED

BY

BETSY

AND

STEVE HAAS

Kevin and Gretchen, Congratulations on running such a successful training facility! Steve and I have enjoyed our last year with you as clients of Price Performance Horses. It has been a phenomenal experience and we love that you’re so close to home! You take such great care of our horses and your true passion is obvious in your training methods. Your amazing integrity and genuine kindness with the horses really stand out.

Thank you for all that you do!

—Steve and Betsy Haas www.PricePerformanceHorses.com

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