Cover Story: Hagale Family Arabians … A U.S. Nationals To Remember by Colleen Scott
Dolorosa Arabians: Crafted By Tradition by Ashley Lauren Toye
Lindsay O’Reilly French Wraps Up 2024 At The Top by Colleen Scott
Great Expectations Lead To Elite Results: Kirsten McKillop Builds A Top-Notch Experience by Caitlin Pigott 48
Holly Connaker & The Incomparable Gin J by Theresa Cardamone 52
Kayde VH: Special From The Start by Caitlin Pigott 56 AHA Convention 2024: The Turning Point by Ashley Lauren Toye 59 A Hoof In Two Worlds—WC After The Roses by Mary Kirkman 60 Arabian Competes And Wins Against Saddlebreds At The 2024 World Championship Show by Colleen Scott 4 STACH Stachowski Farm … With Personalized Care Comes Success by Ashley Knipe Commissiong 128 For The Love Of The Sport: Alexis And Brooke Peterson by Caitlin Pigott
134 Four Equestrians, Three Generations, Two Horses, And One Love The Sutton Family At Youth & Mid Summer Nationals by Caitlin Pigott
136 Working Through Performance Anxiety by Caitlin Pigott
138
Daniel Training Center: A Win for One is a Win for All by Caitlin Pigott
142 To Love A Horse Is To Love Its People by Colleen Scott
144 Bay Area Equestrian Center: Creating Champions In Life by Caitlin Pigott
146 Youth Nationals—A Celebration Of Community, Diversity And The Arabian Horse by Ally Edwards
169 2024 Youth National Arabian Horse Foundation Scholarship Winners
172 2024 Youth National Leading Exhibitors
186 The Khanquistador Lifetime Award
190 Canada’s National Arabian Championship … In True Canadian Fashion by Ashley Lauren Toye
201 The 2024 Arabian National Breeder Finals & Silver Sire Futurity
2 AEPA Cover Story: 2024 U.S. National Champion Songwriter CA by Hope Ellis-Ashburn
6AEPA
Inception’s Record As A Super Sire Of National Winning English Horses Continues Its Steady Climb To The Top! by Christy Egan
38AEPA The Arabian English Performance Association
43AEPA Leaders Of The AEPA
265 2024 U.S. National Leaders
274 The 58th Annual U.S. Nationals: Making History by Ally Edwards 342 2024 APAHA Trainer Challenge Cup Winners 344 2024 U.S. Nationals Judges’ Review
356 The AHAF Holiday Festival … Experience The Magic by Ashley Lauren Toye
360 From Rescue Horse To The Olympics: One Half-Arabian’s Journey b y Brook Matthiesen 366 In Memoriam
Owner/Publisher
Lara Ames
Managing Editor
Charlene Deyle
Production Manager
Melissa Pasicznyk
Advertising Account Executive
Lesley Blain Mazur
Contributing Editor
Mary Kirkman
Contributing Writers
Theresa Cardamone
Ashley Knipe Commissiong
Ally Edwards
Christy Egan
Hope Ellis-Ashburn
Brook Matthiesen
Caitlin Pigott
Colleen Scott
Ashley Lauren Toye
Contributing Designers
Danielle Crawford
Braden Davidsen
Martha Hartley
Jaime Johnson
Emily Maita
Cat McKenna
Brandy Phillips
Riyan Rivero
Ashley Toye
Jenn Trickey
AHT Abroad Director of Creative & Operational Development
Mieke Opsteyn
Show Operations & Digital Support
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Sales Coordinator & Accounts Receivable
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COMMENTS from the publisher
FROM
2024: THE GIFT OF HOPE AND UNITY
Hard to believe, but here we are at the end of 2024—a year which, like many before it, has been challenging for horse breeds facing competition for the public’s interest. It is good, then, to be able to say that following the AHA Convention in November, I have real hope for our ability as a community to ensure the Arabian breed’s future. We need our national association to help us present our horse to the world, and I see several positive signs of strength and unity.
I was one of many who supported the Restructure Resolution. It didn’t pass, but here is what is important: even those who didn’t vote in its favor seemed to recognize that it was necessary, and their objections had more to do with finetuning it than outright rejection. (For one thing, it is hard to deny the statistics and facts that Resolution supporters presented to confirm the need for the changes it addressed.) We’re never all going to agree on everything, but understanding what has to happen and communicating constructively is a huge step forward, and a new Resolution will be offered next year.
Another energizer was that there were a lot of people at the convention, which means more thoughts and more folks dedicated to the future of the Arabian horse. Add to that, young trainers, which is definitely a good thing. These are people whose livelihood in years to come depends on how well we can support the breed—which by extension supports them too—down the line. We must embrace and value that. Our young trainers, like our horses, are our future.
Our industry is ever evolving. Sometimes change is hard to face and takes a bit to accept and adjust to (and it’s not just in our horses—change seems to be happening in so many phases of our lives). But it’s important to move with the times, and I’m convinced that we can do what we need to. Right now, when “unity” seems hard to achieve on so many fronts, I believe that the Arabian horse community took a big step toward that at the 2024 AHA Convention. That gives me hope and happiness.
Wishing you all a pleasant holiday season.
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Hagale Family Arabians A U.S.
NATIONALS TO REMEMBER
by Colleen Scott
Who Whose
made their debut in the winner’s circle on the 2024 U.S. Nationals stage?
Whose team collectively brought home 18 Top Ten awards, including four reserve championships and three championships?
breeding program’s rst foal captured the Arabian Breeding Gelding In-Hand championship?
HERE’S A HINT –
you’ve seen him around for years, but in the paddock or stands, and this individual and his family once owned Mamage.
If you guessed Jim Hagale and Hagale Family Arabians (Mary Martha, Jennifer and Jamie) … you’re right.
A er decades on the sidelines cheering on daughters Jennifer and Jamie, it was Jim Hagale’s turn to walk away with the 2024 U.S. National reserve tri-color ribbon and a set of roses, besting Jennifer in the Arabian Mare Breeding AAOTH Championship class. Jim was showing Esperranzza (Emerald J x Vesperra) and Jennifer, who went Top Ten, was on the lead with Pink Rose SRA (Baahir El Marwan x DM Valencea).
“She was trash-talking to me before the class,” says Jim. “Now it’s the other way around.”
It’s not the rst time Jim has competed against one of his daughters. At the 2023 U.S. Nationals, the tables were turned and Jamie beat Jim, claiming the championship title with Queen Ayda FWM (*FA El Shawan x TN Mariani) with Jim placing a close third with Esperranzza.
e trash-talking within the family is all in good fun and while Jim walked away with the roses in that particular class, Jennifer and the
rest of the Hagale Family Arabians team (performance trainers Chris Wilson and Nestor Gonzalez, and halter trainers Andy Sellman and Ted Carson) returned home with prizes of their own.
Recalling highlights from the show, Jennifer says sharing the halter ring with her dad was a highlight for the entire family. “He and my mom have always been our biggest cheerleaders, and it was exciting for all of us to be able to watch him be in the spotlight. We were all nervous for him,” she says. As it turned out, they needn’t have been.
Besides Jim claiming reserve honors in the mare class, other wins in the halter arena included the handsome bay OFW Alikai (EKS Alihandro x OFW Praise), who took a top ten with Jim in the AAOTH class but earned Unanimous Champion in the Arabian Futurity Geldings with Andy Sellman.
Ted Carson showed the rst o spring of the Hagale Family Arabians breeding program, HFA Jazz Man (Dominic M x MC Jasmara), to a championship title in the ABS Arabian Yearling Gelding class.
Additional halter top tens were captured by Esperranzza and Pink Rose SRA in the Senior Mares class.
Besides showing in the same class as her father, Jennifer cites two other highlights – her rides on SD e Bravest (Noble Braveheart x GSF Malinah) and CSP Rolling Stone (A res Heir x CSP Adriana). SD e Bravest, a ectionately called “Barbie” at home, is no stranger to the winner’s circle. She won the Half-Arabian English Futurity in 2022, the AEPA $50,000 Half-Arabian Futurity in 2023 and she and Jennifer were champions in the AAOTR Maturity at this year’s show. e mare was also named the Reserve Champion Half-Arabian English Pleasure Junior Horse with Nestor Gonzalez aboard.
“She is one of my very favorite horses to show and the Maturity class was so much fun,” says Jennifer. “We bought her from Juliette Dell, and
I happened to be on the rail by her when they announced Barbie and I as champions, so it was extra special to share that victory with Juliette.”
e other factor making the win with Barbie so special is that she represents the rst big wins for Nestor at U.S. Nationals since he joined the team. “I really love working with Barbie,” says Nestor. “She has been exciting to bring along and that she can be successful in the open and amateur classes is a great testament to the kind of horse she is.”
With the stallion CSP Rolling Stone, Jennifer claimed the Reserve Champion title in the Arabian English Pleasure AAOTR Jackpot class. It was especially meaningful as by her own admission, the horse hasn’t been the easiest. “He’s been a little challenging, so it was really rewarding to see all the work we have done with him pay o . When they asked if I wanted the spotlight, I didn’t hesitate, and we had a blast.”
Interestingly, Rolling Stone was bred by Chris, as was his dam and granddam. “I bred him and just before the entire Hagale family really decided to get back into breeding and showing, we sold him to Conway Arabians, says Chris. “I always believed in that horse, and when we had the opportunity to buy him back in 2019, we did. While he’s only produced four foals thus far, we think he is going to be a great contributor to the Hagale Family Arabians breeding program.”
Jennifer also had stellar rides on Ladie in Redd (ROL Divine Style x Heirs Noble Love), claiming the Reserve Champion title in the Arabian English Pleasure Maturity and Top Ten in the very deep AAOTR 19-49 class. is reserve amateur win was a big highlight for Nestor also. “Ladie in Redd is my favorite,” he adds. “She was the rst win I had for the Hagales when Jennifer and I teamed up in 2023 for the AEPA Pro-Am in Ocala.”
ESPERRANZZA | Reserve National Champion Mare AAOTH
OFW ALIKAI | National Champion Futurity Gelding
HFA JAZZ MAN | National Champion Yearling Gelding
OTHER U.S. NATIONAL TOP TEN AWARDS IN THE PERFORMANCE ARENA INCLUDED:
BOOM TROTTA LOTTA PF
(Undulata’s Nutcracker x Noble Vision PF)
Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure AAOTR Maturity and Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure Junior Horse
CHARMING DIVA
(SF Specs Shocwave x Charming Baroness)
AEPA $50,000 Half-Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity
G EAZY
(HA Toskcan Sun x Up In e Heir)
Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure Open and AAOTR 40-59
HFA MALACHI
(KW Micah x A Pleasant Surprise)
Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure Futurity
IM YOUR HUCKLEBERY VA
(A res Heir x Nevada Spirit VA)
AEPA $100,000 Saddle Seat Futurity
LOVES DIVINE
(SF A ershoc x Ames Divine)
AEPA $100,000 Saddle Seat Futurity
MISS MARTINI BF
GSF Rizing Son x Lucky’s Stylish Martini)
Half-Arabian Open and AAOTR Park
MONTAGUE AA
(Mamage x CSP Vozka)
Country English Pleasure Open and AAOTR 40-59
WAKING UP IN VEGAZ
(Vegaz x Reedann’s Hello Hello Hello)
Half-Arabian English Pleasure Futurity
While all of the titles are meaningful in their own way, it was Jennifer’s wins in the Maturity and Jackpot classes that were special to Chris and are indicative of what the Hagale family breeding program is trying to achieve.
“Jennifer being reserve and champion in both of those classes are really representative of the kind of program we want to have,” he says. “We want our horses to be very competitive in those amateur classes, and whether they continue on and join our show string, are sold to someone else to enjoy, or become part of our breeding program, those early successes tell us we’re on the right track.”
SD THE BRAVEST | National Champion H/A English Maturity & Reserve National Champion H/A Jr. Horse
LADIE IN REDD Reserve National Champion English Maturity
CSP ROLLING STONE Reserve National Champion English Jackpot
e Hagale Family Arabian personal wins aside, 2024 was also a great year for the farm’s stallions, SF A ershoc and HA Toskcan Sun. Both topped the Arabian Horse Times leaderboards in a number of categories (determined by points assigned for championships, reserve championships and top tens).
In the Overall Performance Sire category for U.S. Nationals, SF A ershoc and HA Toskcan Sun were second and third, respectively. In the Saddle Seat Sire category, SF A ershoc took second and HA Toskcan Sun, fourth. Moving on to the Hunter Pleasure category and SF A ershoc is also a force there, nishing in third. In the Specialty Sire category, he again proves his versatility as a sire and lands second on the list. HA Toskcan Sun was not far behind, in h, as a Leading Specialty Sire.
Other stallions that have o spring with successes at U.S. Nationals include ROL Divine Style, Vegaz, Fire and Goldd and Mamage (deceased). Hagale Family Arabians broodmares also contributed to the farm’s successes.
“We are very proud of the stallions we’ve selected to be cornerstones of our breeding program,” says Jim. “To see other owners be successful with their o spring is just as rewarding as our own wins.”
Im Your Hucklebery VA and Montague AA are not only on the show string, but they are out of Vegaz daughters. “We think Vegaz produces some pretty special broodmares,” says Chris. “Im Your Hucklebery VA in particular generated a lot of interest a er our AEPA pattern. He seemed to be a crowd favorite at the show.”
And while all the personal victories and those of SF A ershoc and HA Toskcan o spring were important and exciting, Jim cites something else about the 2024 U.S. Nationals as memorable. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen the quality of horses before that we had at this year’s show,” he says. “ e young horse classes were phenomenal, and I think breeders are doing a great job of producing athletic, quality horses.”
As for their own breeding program, Jim says they will start to show more of their youngsters in 2026 and beyond. ey are expecting 28 babies in 2025. “We’re excited about the future of the Arabian horse and making a contribution to the breed we love and enjoy so much,” he says.
Chris is excited about the future of their program as well. “ e bottom line is, we breed to mares that we think will bring out the best in our stallions. While we are excited for the upcoming futurity and maturity horses in the coming years,” he says, “we continue trying to create the next phase of the Hagale Family Arabians breeding program by producing the next generation of show horses.”■
2024 USEF Award Nominees
2024 HORSE OF THE YEAR
ITALIAN GOLD++++//
EQUESTRIAN OF THE YEAR:
(with Equestrian of Honor Awards)
LARRY JEROME – JERLAND FARMS
Ellen Scripps Davis Memorial Breeders Cup Award & Richard E. McDevitt Award of Merit
JAN DECKER
Lifetime Achievement Award
CYNTHIA RICHARDSON
Walter Devereux
JIM HITT
Pegasus Medal of Honor
ANDY SELLMAN
Norman K Dunn Trophy
CAITLYN SARANCHAK
Emerson Burr Trophy
COLBY POWELL
ASHTON KIESNER
CJ June Cronan Trophy
Barbara Worth Oakford Trophy
KIRSTEN MCKILLOP
Vaughn Smith Trophy
HANNAH HIIVA
National Youth Sportsman’s Award
MIKAYLA CLEMENT
Junior Equestrian of the Year
Congratulations and Good Luck!
& The Incomparable
Gin J Holly Connaker
By THERESA CARDAMONE
As Holly Connaker entered the arena in Tulsa, her platinum blonde hair and shimmering attire complemented the dark, gleaming coat of her beloved Gin J. With gaits so balanced a metronome could be set to their cadence, the judges and spectators were witness to a horse and rider in perfect unity, a classic silhouette.
eir performance was so exceptional, it resulted in the duo’s greatest achievement to date when they won both the 2024 U.S. National Champion Half-Arabian Western Pleasure AAOTR 40-59 and the U. S. National Champion ABS Half-Arabian Western Pleasure AAOTR Jackpot titles to add to their collection of previous national wins. But, what only Holly, Gin J, and a few others knew, was the monumental challenges they had to overcome to achieve that stellar result.
You see, this year Holly rode with the physical and mental health challenges from a January diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). e news was a devastating blow that challenged Holly to reassess how she would navigate her future. She often says she “was born in the saddle” having grown up riding—a cherished gift from her mother, Jenny Johnson, who shared her passion for Arabian horses with Holly from infancy.
She enjoyed a successful youth career and kept her hand in with horses during college. While raising a family, she established a thriving real estate business. “I combined my love of Arabian horses with my real estate career,” Holly explains. “I have clients that are buying and selling property all over the world; we see each other at shows. ey know they can trust
me because our love of the Arabian horse is our common bond.”
“Every time I came out of the arena I was in pain, but with a great sense of accomplishment that I could ride, and ride well.”
—Holly Connaker
Holly bought Gin J from Jerland Farms the spring of his 2-year-old year, after a carefully curated tour of numerous horses at several farms with Lizzy Seward. Once under saddle the next year, it was clear the Khaja J son had a bright future. “I challenged myself to be good enough to deserve to ride my incredible horse,” Holly con des. “Gin is so willing and loves people so much. Since the diagnosis, he is more engaged with me than ever. He knows that I need it, he has a sixth sense, which is part of what makes Arabian horses so amazing. ey are so good for people who have any sort of challenge in their life, whether it be a debilitating disease or mental distress, they know and they o er unconditional love. Arabian horses will do that if you’re just having a bad day, too.”
Holly’s disease crept up on her over a few years with loss of mobility, mystery pains, and weight loss camou aged by a busy lifestyle. Last year, she had a major change in a work partnership, causing substantial stress and depression. She also experienced increasing back and hip pain and a hitch in her stride, so she began physical therapy. When PT didn’t ease her symptoms, she went for a series of MRI scans, which con rmed lesions on her spinal cord. “I continue to ride, but it is harder,” states Holly. “I have a di cult time staying square and balanced in the saddle. Lizzy Seward and Anna Conway help me a lot with mental preparedness. I even sit in the saddle before it goes on Gin’s back to decompress and think of melting into the saddle, sitting as straight as possible. But one side of my body is so much stronger than the other, it a ects my posture.” She laughingly describes herself as being “right butt dominant.”
“ e right side of my body is more activated on the horse, and he is so sensitive!” Holly describes. “At the Nationals during my rst cut, he was turning toward the right, and I didn’t realize it was because of me. I am now working to develop my left glute, so my spine and hips don’t continue to shift. I work on that all the time.
At the show, I did a lot of things to keep my body in alignment. I saw a chiropractor every single day for adjustments, and I did massage just to sit straight in the saddle. Every time I came out of the arena I was in pain, but with a great sense of accomplishment that I could ride, and ride well.”
And ride well, she did. e audience remained in ignorant bliss, never imagining the intense e ort it took. “I’m not slowing down,” Holly declares. “My best friends in the world are my Arabian horse friends and my family is very supportive. ese horses ll such a place in our lives and give us strength when we’re having good days or bad days. e nickers when you go out to the barn and the sound of munching hay comforts you. When they breathe on you, there is a sense of calm and relaxation. It grounds me.”
As for a bucket list of goals, Holly wants to continue riding and showing. “It’s my true passion and brings me the most joy in life, other than my family. I hope to show Gin at Region 12 at the magni cent World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida. I also want to continue having him shown in main ring halter. Someday I hope to ride him side saddle; Gin would make a beautiful side saddle horse.”
GIN J++// SHOW RECORD
H/A WESTERN PLEASURE AAOTR & OPEN
2x U.S. National Champion
2x Canadian National Champion
1x U.S. National Reserve Champion
9x U.S. National Top Ten
1x Canadian National Top Ten
H/A PERFORMANCE HALTER
1x U.S. National Champion
4x U.S. National Top Ten
H/A HALTER
U.S. National Top Ten
Holly is not stopping there. “I also want to do new things,” she enthuses. “Number one is to ride under at a Denver Broncos football game! I would love to do that; it would be an amazing opportunity. Additionally, I want to have the honor of carrying the American ag at the U.S. Nationals on Saturday night before the Finals.”
Holly knows exactly what she wants to do while she is able. So, it seems Gin J and Holly are the perfect choice to be next year’s color bearers in Tulsa. And because Gin does well with the spotlight and being a Half-Arabian he doesn’t show that night, what better time than the present to grant a bucket list wish accomplished. n
Special From e Start
by CAITLIN PIGOTT
e story starts with Indira Van Handel seated between Stu Vesty and Kevin Price at the Minnesota Fall Festival stallion auction. Indira and her husband Mike had long dreamed of starting their own breeding program. She knew of Mike’s speci c interest in KM Bugatti, so when his bid came up and with the help of “faith, trust, and a little [friendly urge from her neighbors]” she raised her paddle. ey eventually tracked down the perfect mare (Aristokayte);then, Kayde VH – and their breeding program – were born.
“When that heart is combined with his structure, size, and athleticism, it was easy to see that he was special from the start,” Mike Van Handel shares about the newly named 2024 U.S. National Champion Arabian Hunter Pleasure Jr. Horse. He recognizes and credits the early work of trainers Je Schall (with whom Kayde won the yearling colt U.S. National title with in 2020) and JT Keller (who started Kayde with a wonderful foundation and introduction to the show ring), before stating, “then Stephanie [Sage] took all that groundwork and ran with it right into the winner’s circle.”
Excitement, pride, and joy lls Stephanie Sage as she remembers her victory with Kayde VH at the most recent U.S. Nationals. e duo has been perfecting their partnership for just over one year. Sage says she wanted the foundation of their dynamic to be trust – making Kayde’s preparation very routine and saying her consistency allowed Kayde to rely on her and what she would ask of him.
“It is hard to even put into words what I feel when he goes through the gate,” she explains about the experience of showing Kayde. “It is like I am just along for the ride. He is there for me every single step of the way, giving two hundred percent.”
She added she felt a “rush of pride” for herself, Kayde, Diane Athey (Kayde’s owner), and “everyone else who has been part of his journey” when they were named national champions during the Wednesday a ernoon session. Sage’s emphasis of this feeling reiterates that nobody reaches success alone, and that it is more ful lling to share these victories with others. She wants to specially thank Andres Ramirez and Paul Rodriguez for being by her side through this journey for almost 10 years.
Athey also talked about how grateful she was for Kayde’s community when re ecting on the recent victory. “Everyone who has been part of Kayde’s journey, namely Mike and Indira Van Handel, Je Schall, JT Keller, Grant Krohn, Kim Morgan, Brandy Phillips, and of course, Stephanie Sage and Sue Graham, have been integral to his success. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
Kayde is marked as special by everyone who talks about him. And every person adds something about his heart and desire to please his people. Diane Athey, Kayde’s owner wraps it up nicely by saying, “he has it all. He is special in every way.”
Athey is excited to start sharing in Kayde’s journey in other ways as his junior horse years come to an end. She will start showing the impressive, kind, gentle stallion, and she – along with others – including the Van Handels, have begun Kayde’s breeding career. e Van Handels already have two babies on the ground. And Diane has one on the way.
Clearly Mike and Indira created a great horse in Kayde, so their perspective when it comes to his breeding potential is valuable. “He has brought so much correct structure, size, athleticism, and quality to the table,” Mike shares. “When you back that up with generations of great breeding horses, it is easy to see that Kayde was bred to breed on.”
Although Kayde is already a decorated competitor, in so many ways the party is just getting started. And as time continues to pass, more and more people will be grateful that Indira sat between Stu and Kevin at the Fall Festival that year.
THoof In Two Worlds WC After The Roses
his is the story of two farsighted women and a path nding mare who brings the Arabian horse’s past into its future. e horse is WC After e Roses, a third generation member of Holly Woods Dillin’s breeding program at Western Cross Arabians, in Texas, purchased to become the foundation purebred mare at Dr. Kendall Synder’s Crimson Nights Farm in Ohio. What is happening encapsulates the historic role of the Arabian horse in the equine world: “Rose” will be contributing not only to her own registry, but also to that of another breed—in this case, the Oldenburg, developed in the 17th century and especially appreciated for its abilities in the dressage and sport horse worlds.
On August 30, 2024, WC After e Roses was one of only 23 mares awarded premium status in the Oldenburg breed. To achieve that level, a mare is scored from one to 10 in 11 categories that focus on conformation and movement; Rose totaled 108, the highest awarded in the U.S. Central region. It was the stamp of approval from an experienced judge whose evaluation was based solely on the quality of the horse before him, without regard to breed or preference.
Both Dillin and Snyder, who purchased After e Roses in December 2022, take their goal of producing beautiful athletes seriously. Dillin weaves in proven traits: she favors Ali Jamaal for beauty and the *Bask in uence for performance; WC After e Roses is a daughter of Afterdark H, out of WC Ciao Bellissima, by the Ali Jamaal son Renaissanse. Representing Western Cross, Rose also was a Mid Summer National Top Ten Sport Horse Mare in both In-Hand and Under Saddle Junior Horse.
By MARY KIRKMAN
“We breed primarily for hunter and western, but most importantly, I want them to be able to do something,” Dillin says, and adds that it’s a breeder’s responsibility to equip the foals for a job. at’s why hers must have strong conformation as well as beauty, and a temperament for training and riding.
Kendall Snyder DVM, who began her career as an equine veterinarian but now owns Animal Care Ohio for small animals, came to Arabians primarily through her trainer, Patricia Harper, who likes Half-Arabians. Snyder was looking for a purebred mare to found a program that could support both Half-Arabian sport horse riding and, where appropriate, warmblood competitions, to provide more options for owners.
“I’ll always be a small breeder,” she says. “ e idea is about two foals a year. In general, I think Arabians get a bad rap with people who don’t know them. I would love for them to
open their minds and see how kind and smart these horses are, and that they can compete with any other breed. My goal is that I want the best conformation, the best gaits, rideability—everything. Rose is the epitome of what I’m looking for, and what I know is out there in the Arabian breed.”
Dillin says that her now 30-year mission began with her rst Arabian. After growing up in Quarter Horses, she found her new mare a di erent experience. Once, when they parted company during a practice session, she was surprised to see a startled look on the mare’s face. “It was as if she couldn’t understand why I wasn’t where I was supposed to be, and was saying, ‘We’re doing this together! What are you doing over there?’” She smiles. “Who wouldn’t want horses like her? One that’s loyal and beautiful and so much fun to ride? I’ve sold horses all over the world, and I always wonder if, for their new owners, will they be as special as that rst mare was to me?” n
Neither Motion A re (A res Heir x Leslei, by Promotion) nor young Jenny Snyman of Wartburg, TN, are strangers to the winner’s circle; Motion A re in the Arabian horse show ring and Jenny in the Saddlebred ring. But in August in Louisville at the World Championship Show, the two made it to the winner’s circle together – earning a Top Four in the highly competitive 11-year-old equitation class, against a eld of Saddlebreds.
e pair’s unlikely journey to Freedom Hall started when Jenny’s grandparents, Saddlebred trainers Alida and Pieter Snyman, Snyman Stables, asked Gabe and Skylar DeSoto if they happened to know of a potential partner for Jenny to ride in the World Show equitation class.
As Skylar recalls, when they asked, the 13-year-old gelding Motion A re (owned by Barta Show Horses) was immediately the horse that came to my mind. “‘Mo’ has been with us since we started our business in 2020 and to say he is the barn favorite is an understatement. He has taken countless types of riders to endless numbers of Regional, National and Scottsdale championships.”
“We were pretty con dent this solid black Arabian would capture the hearts of the crowd and judges,” says Skylar, “and with only two practice
By COLLEEN SCOTT
rides to get to know him, Jenny’s third ride atop Mo earned them their top four Saddle Seat 11-Year-Old Equitation nish, beating Saddlebreds! Motion A re proved to many how wonderful the Arabian horse can truly be, representing the breed and being the best Arabian horse anyone could ask for.”
Jenny, who started riding when she was 3 years old and competing not long after, says it can be disconcerting to show a new horse. “I think it is fun but also intimidating to ride a new horse that you don’t know well or haven’t shown before or even a new breed you have never mounted. I will never forget how fun it was to ride Mo. He took such great care of me in the show ring, especially since he had never shown in Freedom Hall, and that is an experience all by itself.”
Could it be that Jenny might switch from Saddlebreds to Arabians? Maybe not, given her family’s rm entrenchment in the Saddlebred industry. However, she says, “I will always appreciate the opportunity Skylar and Gabe gave to me and I will always appreciate Mo for allowing me to show him. We had a blast and I will always be a fan of Arabians and I can’t wait to ride one again.” n
BOOMBASTIC+//
MR BOOMBASTIC+//
Bred by:
Esprit Arabians
CLOUT | LA QUINTINA
CLOUT LA QUINTINA
~ Owned by:
1x U.S. National Unanimous Champion / 2x Reserve H/A Show Hack AAOTR
1x U.S. National Champion H/A Ladies Side Saddle AAOTR 1x Youth National Champion / 1x Reserve H/A Show Hack JTR 1x Youth National Reserve Champion H/A Ladies Side Saddle JTR
“Boomer” has defied all odds during his consecutive 15-year streak in the show ring. Our journey together began with a remarkable debut at the age of five, winning his first National Championship in the 13 & Under Show Hack class at Youth Nationals in 2011. This win marked the start of our unbreakable bond, securing his status as the epitome of a Specialty horse (thanks in part to his Dutch Harness breeding) – which is fitting, because Boomer is very special indeed.
Boomer’s exceptional athleticism and captivating presence (four perfect-white socks and high tail carriage) earned him 58 top victory passes – adorned with roses around his neck – at Nationals, Regionals and Scottsdale throughout his career.
Boomer has been a cherished member of the Aguilera family since 2010, after catching the eye of trainer, Kim Christy, with his spunky personality and distinct four white feet. Over the years, Boomer excelled with countless trainers too long to list – each one part of the journey and offering something different for Boomer to ride for the roses. Though we once believed that Boomer’s competitiveness would be limited to the youth division, he not only held his own and excelled, but also earned four more National titles as an Adult Amateur horse under the training of Stachowski Farm, CA, with the exceptional training of Jonathan Ramsay, Nestor Gonzales, and most recently, Mikayla Michels.
FAVORITE MEMORY
From the early days cuddling with him in his stall, to exhilarating hours spent running during lessons, each moment contributed to our unspeakable bond. Boomer has such a zest for life, and so much energy, that over a year ago during a ride, he snapped both reins and ran a few laps in the arena before stopping.
One show memory that stands out from the rest, however, was our Unanimous National Championship win in 2021 when Boomer was 15 years young. This achievement fulfilled a long-held dream for us as a team. Boomer’s recognition as the first recipient of the Megatropolis BF award added an extra layer of significance to this remarkable accomplishment. Every ride in the show ring over the next three years felt like icing on top of the cake.
After a decade and a half of giving his all in the show ring, Boomer plans to retire at my best friend, Taylor Story, and her family’s Elsinore Arabian Stud, located in the greater Temecula area. It’s fitting, as the Story family has been part of Boomer’s journey since the very beginning. Embracing this new chapter, Boomer will enjoy the California sunshine, frolicking in the pasture, and indulging in his playful nature. And for the first time, I can enjoy Boomer’s company without the pressures of competition. Trail and carefree rides will become the norm – hopefully without the over excited but occasional (and accidental buck off).
Four Equestrians, Three Generations, Two Horses, And One Love
The Sutton Family At Youth & Mid
OSummer Nationals
ne of the most special things about having Mid Summer Nationals join Youth Nationals is that families can show together on a massive stage. Three generations of equestrians, four riders and two horses, made the trip from Ohio this year. Stephanie Sutton (grandmother), Brittany Sutton (mother), Parker (12), and Amelia (11) showed Red Dawnn (“Sassy”) and GDE Judicious (“Jud”) to one national championship, one reserve national championship, and nine top tens – including Amelia’s and Brittany’s first national wins.
By CAITLIN PIGOTT
This family unit handles the daily care, training, and show preparation themselves. Brittany does the early morning feeding and manages the horses’ exercise routines. Parker and Amelia live a lot of young kids’ dreams by having their horses in their backyard. But, this luxury does not come without responsibility. Both headed out halfway through the interview for this story, because it was feeding time. Just because it was only two days after returning home from Youth Nationals didn’t mean their duties could be put on hold. Alongside the wonderful memories they make with their mom, grandma, and plethora of friends they ran around the Oklahoma City Fairgrounds with, these kids are learning the value of hard work.
Parker was almost-exclusively focused on his getting his correct leads during his first year loping – only momentarily distracted by how inflated his bike tires were and when it was time for his daily root beer float. He and his partner-in-crime Jud had a great week, which included only correct leads and multiple top ten prizes. During this season Jud was trained by longtime friend Pepper Proffit – who instructed Brittany as a kid. When Parker and Amelia headed off to “Camp Pepper” leading up to Youth Nationals, Brittany and Stephanie were filled with nostalgia.
At home, Parker is the brave man of the house, always volunteering to turn the barn lights off because that task scares his little sister. Although she doesn’t like the dark, Amelia doesn’t show an ounce of fear when it comes to her Sassy. She was proud to report that she sometimes climbs aboard Sassy in her stall, much to her mother and grandmother’s dismay.
Along with Amelia, Sassy carries an another emotional legacy. The Sutton family bought this horse many years ago from the Chance family with the advice and guidance of trusted friend Sharon Blendinger. Brittany worked hard to make sure the young horse and her daughter were ready for each other. Their national championship victory this year shows that she not only models the value of hard work, but also of patience.
Sassy was the last horse that Susan and Chad Chance’s daughter Vail named before her sudden passing in 2016. So, Sassy became special for more than “just” being a fourth generation product of Susan’s family’s breeding program. An Arabian Horse Times photo sponsor since 2018, The Friends of Vail Foundation (named in Vail’s honor) gave away “lucky piggies” this year to participants in the AHPA Hunter Pleasure Walk/Trot class. Brittany, Stephanie, and Susan were all moved by seeing the Friends of Vail logo on their celebratory photos and watching Amelia cuddle her perfectly pink stuffed pig.
“I can’t imagine what Susan went through,” Brittany shared with an empathy only a fellow-mother can evoke. “Having Sassy have her own little girl in Amelia is a heavy feeling because Vail only got that for a short time. I feel like in a way she and Amelia get to carry on Vail’s legacy.”
The success, life lessons, and emotions packed into the Suttons’ story is a reminder that being involved with Arabian horses, no matter the scale, gives children a place to be kids, and families a place to form priceless traditions and memories. n
From top: Brittany aboard GDE Judicious (Elijah Bey x Leaning On A Dream), 2024 Mid Summer National H/A Western Pleasure AATR 19-49 Reserve Champion and Red Dawnn (SF Aftershoc x Otherwise Engaged), Top Ten Arabian Hunter Pleasure AAOTR Select and AATR 19-49; and Amelia with Red Dawnn, 2024 Youth National Arabian Hunter Pleasure Walk/Trot 10 & Under Champions.
For anyone who has experienced overwhelming anxiety or panic, you know what it feels like. For those who don’t, imagine going through a tunnel, having the light turn dark around you, unable to see the light on the other side. It becomes all encompassing. It often strikes out of nowhere, with no warning. And it feels like there is nothing you can do to “snap out of it.” For some athletes and performers, these feelings often attack while they are doing their sport or art.
Performance anxiety (also referred to as stage fright) is de ned by the American Psychological Association as, “apprehension and fear of the consequences of being unable to perform a task or of performing it at a level that will raise expectations of even better task achievement.” In a sport with as much nancial, emotional, and social investment as the competitive Arabian horse circuit, it is no surprise that some people in our industry can become crippled by their anxiety.
By CAITLIN PIGOTT
Arabian horse competitor and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Ti any Kurth-McNeill describes anxiety in the following way.
“Everyone experiences varying degrees of anxiety in daily life,” she shared. “It’s actually important to never entirely eliminate anxiety through treatment, it can be a superpower and improve performance. But, when the volume of the anxiety symptoms is too high, it can impair daily functioning and ultimately hinder performance.”
Grace and Tap Out (Mamage x Beaulieu's Tapestry), 2024 Mid Summer National Champion Half-Arabian Country English Pleasure AATR 19-49 and Reserve Champion Country English Pleasure AAOTR Choice.
Grace Raleigh, a familiar name to the industry, has been courageously open about sharing her struggles with performance anxiety. She describes how it ultimately kept her from the show ring – and for the most part – the barn for nearly two years. She was defeated by her anxiety for a time but had a major comeback at the recent 2024 Mid Summer National Championships, where she earned a national championship and reserve national championship with her teammate Tap Out (Teddy). She is a selfdescribed work-in-progress when it comes to her performance anxiety but has made impressive strides in the right direction.
“I go to horse shows as an escape from stressors and triggers in my everyday life,” Raleigh said. “ ey made me feel good and I could block it all out. en, suddenly, those stressors and triggers found me there too. It was so frustrating to not be able to enjoy my horses in the way I used to.”
Grace wanted to perform, but her circumstances got the best of her, resulting in mental and physical symptoms that kept her from showing. If she made it into the gate, she seldom nished a class. And more importantly, her trusted people at Daniel Training Center realized she was no longer having fun. And as a “fearless barn rat,” according to Julie, this lack of joy raised real concern in her speci cally.
During the height of her struggles, the entire Daniel Training Center sta continued to show up for Grace in ways that they could. Julie recounts many times
when they would take Grace’s horses to show, and they would not see the show arena. Sometimes she would come to practice, sometimes she would not. But they were there and ready for her when and if she decided to join them.
At the 2022 Youth Nationals, Julie sat down with Grace, in her concern, to suggest Grace take a step back from showing the way she was trying to. She knew that Grace needed time to nd her enjoyment with horses again. ey bought some broodmares to try and start breeding, keeping Grace engaged that way.
Grace did the things necessary to get herself in a healthier place with her anxiety surrounding the horses. As she walked through that journey, she says that she stayed a huge fan of Tap Out who was earning more and more notoriety in the Half-Arabian Country and Show Hack divisions. At the 2023 U.S. Nationals, Grace had the opportunity to make Teddy her own, and she worked on her con dence and comfort to get her through some competitions in this season. She nds the same calm in Teddy as she did in JSN Manhattan (Finn), the only horse she could successfully show in the depths of her struggles.
Grace is not without her performance anxiety anymore, but she says she’s shifted her perspective to just trying and having fun. “Now I realize it is not as serious as my brain was making me believe,” Grace said about her mindset shift. “ is is fun. I am meant to be having fun. If I am not, then what is the point? I am having so much fun again and am grateful to Julie and the whole Daniel Training Center team and family for sticking with me through this.”
“I was so present in the moments immediately following Grace and Teddy’s class,” Julie shared about the HalfArabian Country Pleasure AATR 19-39 victory. “So many people who are close to us and know this part of Grace’s story congratulated her. Some trainers and fellow competitors [from that class] even got o the horses they were working or showing to be able to share that moment with us. It was really moving as a trainer to see my colleagues and other amateurs behave that way.”
Julie’s best piece of advice to trainers who may have riders who experience the same thing, is to utilize this incredible community she spoke of earlier. She re ected on reaching out to Ray LaCroix when Grace was in the depths of her experience. She knew that since he had dealt with so many riders over the years, he had maybe experienced something similar. She is grateful for his advice and the support of so many other “trainer friends.”
It is our hope, that with Ti any’s expertise, along with Grace and Julie’s story, that together as an industry we can normalize this common experience through conversation to improve mental health. Together we are better, by helping each other (young riders, amateurs, and professionals) to nd ways to handle performance anxiety so that more stories end up how Grace’s did – with victory in the arena and in mind. n
DANIEL TRAINING CENTER
A Win for One is a Win for All
By CAITLIN PIGOTT
Comprised of young riders, siblings, parents, and three trainers who are dedicated to their clients’ success (Julie Daniel, Kasey Mo at and Lauren Stephenson), Daniel Training Center returned home to Scottsdale, AZ from the 2024 Youth and Mid Summer Nationals with eight national championships, 10 reserve national championships, and 52 top tens! Six of the riders who showed in Oklahoma City for Team DTC (including assistant trainer Lauren Stephenson) started in Apex Riding Academy, the lesson program that operates at Daniel Training Center.
“A win for one is a win for all,” Ann Csincsak, a DTC competitor and mother to two children in the program shared. “ at is shown from the top down and engineered into the heart of the barn.”
Julie con rmed that this mentality was intentional in designing her program. By limiting the number of horses in training and encouraging things like social outings (outside the barn), the barn mates have become like family. Another barn mom, Jenn ompson shared that this experience has been healthier than any other team sport they’ve participated in. Jenn added, “Charlie [her daughter] would not be riding if she wasn’t genuinely supportive of the other kids at the barn. It’s very important to me and part of what makes the culture at DTC so great!”
Jenn also shares her young daughter has learned valuable life lessons during her three years as part of the DTC family. She summed them up as: valuing hard work, understanding success does not come easy, recognizing that just because you work hard doesn’t mean it will always go your way, and learning to roll with the challenges.
Aside from maintaining a positive, encouraging barn culture, the DTC sta is committed to turning out wellprepared, competitive teams of riders and horses. Julie shared how advice she received over the years has helped her align her priorities as a leader in this industry.
“By focusing on the horse’s health, comfort, and happiness, I’ve found that everything else—training success, rider satisfaction, and a harmonious barn environment—naturally falls into place. Julie is also quick to compliment the team she has around her. At shows, the key players of that team would be Kasey Mo at and Lauren Stephenson.
Kasey has been with Julie for 18 years and is embedded in the DTC family. At this year’s Mid Summer Nationals, she earned her rst set of national roses with Tap Out – accomplishing a goal she has had since age 13. Taking herself back to that day she said, “I was elated to hear our names be announced, especially in such a di cult, prestigious class. It is a memory that I will cherish for the rest of my life.” When asked what her most common piece of encouragement to her riders is, she answers with a simple “you can do this.”
When Lauren started taking lessons with Julie eight years ago, she had no idea it would turn out to be her career. “ is path wasn’t something I had meticulously planned out; it evolved naturally from my love for what I was doing,” she shared. “My rst full season as a professional rider means so much more to me than any ribbon could.”
Both Kasey and Lauren’s stories and successes signal to one of the things Julie is most proud of. “As a boss and mentor, witnessing the kids who grew up in my barn transition into trainers themselves working alongside me and then succeed in the Open ring lls me with pride. ere is no better feeling.” n
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Josh & Knighttime PhanTsy
To W
Love A Horse Is To Love Its People
By COLLEEN SCOTT
hen the mother-son duo of Josh and Krissy Pruitt, Etowah, TN, decided to attend and compete at the 2024 Youth & Mid Summer National Championship Show, they didn’t know what to expect. To say the show exceeded their expectations would be an understatement.
Josh, 14, has autism. His journey navigating the world of unkind children hasn’t been an easy one. “Josh has a very hard time making friends at school,” says Krissy. But their experience at Youth Nationals convinced them both of one thing: “ e love of horses brings people together 100 percent!”
Krissy, who has had Arabians for nearly 30 years, made sure Josh was exposed to horses at an early age. “He’s been riding since he was big enough to sit on a horse,” she says. Josh started showing in lead line and then started showing sport horse in-hand with Krissy’s mare, Daylights Child, in 2020.
Fast forward to 2024 and Krissy and Josh made the decision to head to Oklahoma City for what would be Josh’s debut on the national Arabian horse stage. In the end, three national titles were brought home in Halter and Sport Horse In-Hand with Krissy’s Half-Arabian Knighttime PhanTsy and purebred SL Wings of Gold. He was slated to show in Intro Western Dressage, but had a seizure the morning of and had to scratch. But as it turns out, the show wasn’t really about competing. It was about belonging.
“ e experience at Youth Nationals was out of this world,” says Krissy. “What made it so special was that everyone was cheering for Josh. People we didn’t know—Ted Carson for one—came up to Josh after his halter class and told him what a great job he did. I’d heard of Ted Carson, but had never met him so that was awesome. But it wasn’t just him; tons of other trainers, exhibitors and parents did the same thing. Everyone at the show just absolutely accepted him for who he was and played with him and just acknowledged him.”
Besides the Top Ten plaques Josh can now proudly display on his wall, he also has the memories of Oklahoma City and his fellow Arabian horse lovers. “I think what Josh liked most about the show was the people,” says Krissy. “Nobody judged him for his disability. ey accepted him for who he was and were all willing to give him the time of day and play with him.”
As a result of the enthusiasm and support Josh and Krissy received at the show, she has started a Facebook page titled “ e Journey of a Boy and His Arabian Horses.” He and Knight most recently competed at an open dressage show with Josh completing his very rst USDF test.
“Our Arabian community has been incredibly supportive of my son and his journey,” says Krissy in a Facebook post.
“ e horses and showing and the community we are surrounded by make him feel like a normal child! It is incredible!” n
BAY AREA EQUESTRIAN CENTER Creating Champions In Life
BBy CAITLIN PIGOTT
ay Area Equestrian Center (BAEC) may hold the record for most cumulative steps walked around the Oklahoma City Fairgrounds during the Youth and Mid Summer National Championships. is barn participates in each arena and more than a dozen disciplines during the week of competition. What resulted is a stall front covered in roses, tricolored ribbons, and dozens of top ten prizes, comes from a year-round preparation of horse care, rider practice, and sta planning. BAEC is owned by Lynn Almond, who remains very involved in all layers of the business. Almond, Laurie Long (head trainer), Krista Wilkes (assistant trainer), and Mackenzie Wayne handle the operations, training, and scheduling of the fun- lled chaos that is Youth Nationals. A show Wilkes wrapped up in the three words: competitive, rewarding, and exhausting – in the best ways, of course.
ere are a few key things that Wilkes said goes into the operational and show ring successes of a show this busy. Starting right after Region 9 – the largest regional they attend – Monday through Wednesdays are full of “intensive” individual and group lessons. ey practice patterns, run rail work, and perfect technicalities in the students’ riding to feel ready for July’s big competition. In addition, they do their best to schedule all parts of their days at Youth Nationals before they even arrive to Oklahoma City. Finally, and maybe most importantly, is the fact that all the training sta works with all the riders and horses.
“We all work together and to make sure all our riders are comfortable with all of us,” Wilkes shared. “We rotate lessons between all of us at home so that way, no speci c trainer is tied to a speci c rider. is makes it easy for everyone if a trainer needs to be elsewhere during the show.”
It takes a lot of preparation and a lot of hands-on support at a show like this to just logistically be ready for all the classes, let alone have results like 18 National Championships, 19 Reserve Championships, and 93 Top Tens! e BAEC team of trainers, caretakers, and sta , along with the supportive group of clients and riders, make all the di erence in Wilkes’ eyes.
“Going to shows with our barn is not an easy task because of the number of horses we bring and the fact that we’re pretty much an all-around barn,” she said about the operation. “ ere’s a lot of work involved. ese people put their heart and soul not only into the care of our horses but also our riders.”
Of course, it takes more than just a good care team to have the kind of experience that people do at BAEC. is “well-oiled machine” did not present more than 130 rider and horse combinations during Youth Nationals without also having wonderful support from their clientele. With a group of mainly youth riders, this means the sta , kids and parents are all doing their part to promote a positive experience. One might assume there is internal competition or struggles, but Wilkes was quick to refute that.
“Our riders compete against each other all the time and while this sport can very easily be a ‘me vs. you’ sport, these kids view it as a team sport.” Expanding on their barn environment, the assistant trainer shares, “ ere is a strong sense of unity and friendship amongst our riders and that support helps them not only in the ring, but outside of it.”
ere is a lot of inevitable overlap in classes and competition, and in any given class, there are only two top places and eight remaining top ten prizes. ankfully, the culture at BAEC is full of support
and perspective. ey work as hard as they can leading up to (and at) Youth Nationals each year, but truly prioritize the mazing experience they all get to share.
“Our clients are one of a kind,” Wilkes continued to point the attention back to their clients. “ ey engage and support each other. ey help each other and us trainers out when needed, and they all work hard. Most importantly, they understand and see our vision which is about the journey to success and the life lessons you learn along the way.”
After all, the farm’s tagline is “creating champions in life!” e roses and trophies can’t hurt though.
e team at BAEC along with their horses and clientele are creating an aspirational model for many aspects of the industry.
eir outlook, vision, and execution are leaving an undeniable mark on competitions and on the future of the breed. As for advice to their own riders and others, they boil that down to – “don’t give up, make good choices, and have fun.”
Aside from the impeccable organization, record-setting show results, and welcoming setting, BAEC has also mastered something else that seems to plague most of the industry – introducing new people to the breed and then engaging them in high-level competition. Wilkes says that more than 90 percent of their riders at Youth Nationals started in their Academy program. Over time they have worked their way up to showing and owning national quality horses.
YOUTH NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
July 18-27, 2024 | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
JUDGES
SIX JUDGE PANEL
Donnie Bullock – Fredericksburg, VA
Todd Hickerson – Wilton, CA
Brian Murch – Orchard Park, NY
John Power – Bradenton, FL
Todd Trushel – Fairview, PA
Cathy Vecsey – Scottsdale, AZ
UPHA
Todd Trushel – Fairview, PA
WORKING WESTERN
Michael Damianos – Ojai, CA
Je Lee – Stanwood, WA
Sheri Odom – Lake Havasu City, AZ
WORKING HUNTER
Kathryn Jones – Watkinsville, GA
Sue Lightner – Wellington, FL
Leslie Stohlgren – Scottsdale, AZ
DRESSAGE
Carol Bishop – Gastonia, NC
Fatima Pawlenko-Kranz – Algonquin, IL
Susan Posner – Lexington, KY
Joyce Swanson – Castle Rock, CO
Show results provided by AHA
Candid photos by Meaghan Estes & Ally Edwards
Photos sponsored by Friends Of Vail Foundation
Photos availabe to view and purchase at ahtimes.com/photos
A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY, DIVERSITY AND THE ARABIAN HORSE
by Ally Edwards
e sun is out, the temperature is hot, July has come – it sounds like it’s time to head to Oklahoma City! About 900 horses traveled to the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds to compete at the 2024 Arabian and Half-Arabian Youth and Mid Summer National Championships. Stretching across 10 days and three arenas, youths, amateurs, and professionals competed in a multitude of di erent divisions that encapsulate the versatility of the Arabian horse.
e Jim Norick Arena catered to western pleasure, hunter pleasure, country and English pleasure, as well as specialty classes like native costume and side saddle. Across the road in the Performance arena were all the working western disciplines and halter classes, and a quick walk further, dressage, sport horse, hunter equitation, and over fences classes could be found in the Specialty Arena. Such a wide range of events and divisions all within one breed and shown by all ages proved the Arabian’s diversity in spades.
is show is one of the best as it continues to put youth exhibitors at the forefront. ere were activities in the AHA Chill Box for kids to do together while also escaping the heat; ice cream socials, scavenger hunts, and a nal Saturday night lled with some of the most competitive youth championships. And always a favorite, the dog costume contest and races in the main arena are taken just as seriously as any of the classes with horses!
Class size varied throughout the whole show with the largest being the hunter and country divisions. e largest, the newly added AHPA Hunter Seat Pleasure Equitation 18 & Under Exhibition, clocked in at 49 entries. With three section cuts, Alexis Peterson and RGT Fireball Whiskey cinched the national championship roses and Averie Horiski and SF Its A Mirakel took reserve. e sport horse arena also boasted large entry numbers with multiple 20+ horse classes. It’s always good to see some deep competition in all the rings and the excitement of all for those making the top ten.
Dominating the sport horse ring was a beautiful palomino named Italian Gold who took home an astounding 21 rose garlands (15 championships and six reserves); 10 of those ( ve each) in youth competition. is Half-Arabian gelding owned by Marissa and Ronald Bartholomew exempli ed the versatility of the breed by competing in dressage, western dressage, sport horse under saddle and in-hand, and over fences; an incredible accomplishment with multiple riders beyond his owners.
Some of the most competitive classes at the show include the purebred and Half-Arabian Saddle Seat Equitation for the 15to 18-year-olds. A handful of the top youth riders battle it out in the at portion and then pattern for the honor of national champion. One of the most elegant classes at nationals, this year Bostyn Le er aboard WP Corporate America took the purebred win and Alexa Gilbert on Toi Sensation were the Half-Arabian national champions. Both girls had near awless rides and patterns, on top of being stunning riders, and were both deserving of the titles.
Another class of graduating seniors took their last lap at Youth Nationals this year. e Senior Graduation ceremony at the end of the show celebrated all the kids with recognition of their scholastic achievements. Hopefully, we will see some of these young adults next year in the amateur classes to continue their journeys with their Arabian horses. e beloved Friends of Vail Foundation and Ty Wallis scholarships were awarded to seniors Mackenzie Hooker and Harper Rose, respectively, to put towards their future education.
One thing more noticeable this year was a higher sense of sportsmanship among the youth exhibitors. Instead of competing solely against each other, there was still an abundance of support from those in the class for the winners. During the short stirrup reining awards, all the kids with their top ten ribbons were
huddled in a circle down at the end of the ring chatting and giggling before the top two got their prizes. After the show, mother Krissy Pruitt wrote online how grateful and excited she was for her son, Josh, who has autism and not always the easiest time in social situations. But at his rst Youth Nationals, he was welcomed by so many kids and made a ton of friends that included him in games around the show and supported him in his classes. He came home with three top tens that he was so excited about and countless great memories, all because of the amazing members of the Arabian community. Regardless of the competition and results, the memories made with horse show friends will be the most special.
is year’s Youth Nationals was another great success with sessions running smoothly and timely with adequate breaks for the horses, exhibitors, and trainers to reset. A big thank you to the show sta for all they do and the hours they put in to make this show as good as it can be every year. Being graced with nice weather was another treat that we haven’t felt in Oklahoma City in years, which de nitely boosted morale among everyone. Next year there will most likely be a brand new main arena at the fairgrounds set to open in spring 2025, surely adding another level of excitement this national show. Another summer, another Youth Nationals in the books, and the kids are already counting down the days until next year to ride for the roses with their horses and friends.
YOUTH
NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
Arabian Mare JOTH LEXXUS NS
(Exxalt x Sheza Marcedes)
Ex: Brynlee Guimaraes
O: Luiz and Ashley Guimaraes
Arabian Mare JTH BELLACEETA
(Masquerade PA x Fadila PCF)
Ex: Chloe Harper
O: Jeremy or Chelsea Harper
Arabian Gelding JOTH & JTH
RIO FH
(Beijing BHF x Falcons Felisha BHF)
Ex: Hope Krichke
O: Keith or Maureen Krichke
HA/AA Mare 3 & Over JTH
NIRVANAS BLACK WIDOW
(Nutcracker’s Nirvana x Toi Magic CRF)
Ex/O: Autumn McKinney
HA/AA Gelding 3 & Over JTH HERCULES SBA
(Artemas GA x Ebony By Valentino)
Ex: Rebecca Bassichis
O: Stella Bella Arabians LLC
Arabian Mare 3 & Over JTH VIQUITA JUELL XX
(Vitorio TO x Beautiful Juell V)
Ex: Holly Capron | O: Dana Crawley
Arabian Gelding 3 & Over JTH
THOR SBA
(Inception x SF Marwhambra)
Ex: Jody Loe er-Murray
O: Stella Bella Arabians LLC
HA/AA Mare 3 & Over JTH
WS MARILYN MONWHOA
(Sundance Kid V x WS Whistlin Dixie)
Ex/O: eodore Farnsworth
HA/AA Gelding 3 & Over JTH
KHRIS LE DOUX J
(Khaja J x Blue Moon J)
Ex/O: Isobel Comolli
Arabian English Pleasure JOTR 15-18
WP CORPORATE AMERICA
(WP Corporate Image x Barbarys Angel)
Ex/O: Mackenzie Hooker
Arabian English Pleasure
JOTR 14 & Under & JTR Select
CSP GRAND CAYMON
(Mamage x JJ Sioux Hope)
Ex: Ellie Wilson | O: Chris and Shan Wilson
Arabian English Pleasure JTR Choice
LADIE IN REDD
(ROL Divine Style x Heirs Noble Love)
Ex: Isabella Gonzalez
O: Hagale Family Arabians LLC
Arabian English Pleasure JTR Elite
FHEIREST OF ALL
(A res Heir x Tribekka)
Ex/O: Sophia Bourdeau
Arabian Country English Pleasure
JOTR 15-18 & JTR Choice
SHF MATILDABEY
( e Renaissance x Missta rebey)
Ex/O: Mackenzie Hooker
Arabian Country English Pleasure
JOTR 14 & Under & JTR Elite
MOVES AFIRE WA
(A res Heir x e Way She Moves)
Ex/O: Reese Tierney
Arabian Country English Pleasure
JTR Select 15-18
LIGHT MY FYRE LR
(Tryst CCF x BA Inspiration)
Ex/O: Lilian Burick
Arabian Country English Pleasure
JTR Select 14 & Under
NOTORIOUS AFIRE
(A re Bey V x MA Nobella)
Ex/O: Shelby Bellville
HA/AA English Pleasure JOTR 15-18
CRACK ME UP
(Black Daniels x Valentina’s Jewels)
Ex: Lola Fiorenza | O: Sandra Fiorenza
HA/AA English Pleasure
JOTR 14 & Under
CSP RUM CHATA
(CSP Grand Caymon x e Gossip Writer)
Ex: Gianna Kern
O: Bella Cavallo Stables LLC
HA/AA English Pleasure Select JTR
HAVE YOU EVER
(Baske A re x Siere Usi)
Ex/O: Alexandra Lyons
HA/AA English Pleasure Choice JTR
MISS MARTINI BF
(GSF Rizing Son x Lucky’s Stylish Martini)
Ex: Isabella Gonzalez
O: Hagale Family Arabians LLC
HA/AA English Pleasure Elite JTR
TOOSKCANDALOUS RT
(HA Toskcan Sun x Topline)
Ex: Rene Ramirez Jr. | O: Rainie Kuchynka
SADDLE SEAT
HA/AA Country English Pleasure
JOTR 15-18
COMMANDER N CHIEF NNW
(GSF Pure Fuzion x Fancy Machine)
Ex: Calleigh Polo
O: Creekwood Arabians LLC
HA/AA Country English Pleasure
JOTR 14 & Under
KF AMOUR MAGNIFIE
(VCP Magni re x Harlem’s Lady Love)
Ex: Reese Tierney
O: Shannon Brooks Tierney
HA/AA Country English Pleasure
JTR Select 15-18
O MY MARTINI LOA
(HF Mister Chips x Laced With Love)
Ex: Rhiannon Brefke
O: Nicki Halloran-Brefke or Joan Halloran
HA/AA Country English Pleasure
Select JTR 14 & Under
NS INTENSITY
(Majesteit x CA Natashya)
Ex/O: Kamryn Grimesey
HA/AA Country English Pleasure
Choice JTR
THE HIGH SPHEIRROW
(VJ Royal Heir x Captivating Style)
Ex/O: Ewa Garmendia
HA/AA Country English Pleasure Elite JTR
TSHAMPAGNE TSTARBOY
(SF Aftershoc x Phun Night)
Ex/O: Anna Schippert
Arabian Park JTR
RA EXTRAORDINARE
(HA Toskcan Sun x GSF Exclusive)
Ex/O: Alexa Gilbert
HA/AA Park JTR
TOSKCAN STARS
(HA Toskcan Sun x Kalarama’s Celeste)
Ex: Alexa Gilbert
O: Glenmoor Farms LLC
YOUTH CHAMPIONS
WESTERN PleasureEASURE
Arabian Western Pleasure JOTR 15-18
ADMIRAL JULLYEN V
(Jullyen El Jamaal x ALA Modina)
Ex: Alana Chanelle Becker
O: Becker Stables, Inc.
Arabian Western Pleasure JOTR 14 & Under
AMANDAS SONG
(Borsalino K x Salons Song)
Ex: Reese Tierney
O: Shannon or Michael Brooks Carroll
Arabian Western Pleasure JTR
Select 15-18
SHACAGO PGA
(FA El Shawan x Toscana PGA)
Ex/O: Hannah Rasmussen
Arabian Western Pleasure JTR
Select 14 & Under POLIMAR
(Polidoro FC x Shalimar MA)
Ex: Henley Wilson | O: Rocksanne Pieters
Arabian Western Pleasure JTR Choice POLIMAR
(Polidoro FC x Shalimar MA)
Ex: Charis Hughes | O: Rocksanne Pieters
Arabian Western Pleasure JTR Elite
KHOHINOOR MW
(Kharismatic PGA x Ladys Dance)
Ex: Alana Chanelle Becker
O: Marta Wasiak
HA/AA Western Pleasure JOTR 15-18
BILLY THE KHYD
(Wild Temptation x Khaadi)
Ex/O: Rainie Kuchynka
HA/AA Western Pleasure
JOTR & JTR Select 14 & Under
CPH BELLE STARR
(Sundance Kid V x Its Baylee Time)
Ex/O: Calli Kruger
HA/AA Western Pleasure JTR
Select 15-18
STEEL THE GOLD
(White Steel x Flirtatious Surprise)
Ex: Ryley Egan | O: Rick Tosch
HA/AA Western Pleasure Choice JTR
CPH SUPERSTARR
(Sundance Kid V x Its Baylee Time)
Ex/O: Stephanie Barris
HA/AA Western Pleasure Elite JTR
JUST AMAZINGG
(Justavinci x Chicolena Mac V)
Ex: Alana Chanelle Becker
O: Becker Stables, Inc.
Arabian Hunter Pleasure JOTR 15-18
PA MONTEREY ALWAYS
(Always A Jullyen V x BP Meditation Bey)
Ex/O: Alexis Peterson
Arabian Hunter Pleasure JOTR 14 & Under WILD CARD CCF
(Vegaz x Merlot CSP)
Ex/O: Ava Loren Jones
Arabian Hunter Pleasure JTR Select 15-18
AVANTI GHA
(KM Bugatti x CP Reverie)
Ex/O: Jillian Yeatman
Arabian Hunter Pleasure JTR
Select 14 & Under
SPECTACULHEIR DGL
(A res Heir x Summer Fire)
Ex: Audrey Bush | O: Lesley and Jason Bush
Arabian Hunter Pleasure JTR Choice
DONT STEAL MY THUNDER
( under Struck LR x Bella Swan)
Ex: Reagan Henderson
O: Henderson Arabians LLC
WESTERN PLEASURE
HUNTER PLEASURE
YOUTH CHAMPIONS
Arabian Hunter Pleasure JTR Elite
SUNRISE KID MF
(Sundance Kid V x Mi Maria)
Ex/O: Anna Montpetit
HA/AA Hunter Pleasure JOTR 15-18
RGT FIREBALL WHISKEY
(A re Bey V x Showtime’s Shanghai Lilly)
Ex/O: Alexis Peterson
HA/AA Hunter Pleasure
JOTR 14 & Under & Elite JTR
MS DUTCH CHOCOLATE
(Darktanion x Czapranka)
Ex/O: Teagan Anschuetz
HA/AA Hunter Pleasure JTR
Select 15-18
SRC SOLAR ECLIPSX
(Rolex x SRC Lady In Red)
Ex/O: Ella Van Den Herik
HA/AA Hunter Pleasure JTR
Select 14 & Under
SRC THE BLACK KNIGHT
(Loki x SRC Lady In Red)
Ex: Elizabeth Dearing | O: Reese Higgins
HA/AA Hunter Pleasure Choice JTR
SF ITS A MIRAKEL
(Rico x CF Windsock)
Ex/O: Averie Horiski
Arabian English Show Hack JOTR
HA TSAMSUN
(HA Toskcan Sun x QH Tallulah)
Ex/O: Isobel Comolli
Arabian English Show Hack JTR 15-18
BOOGIE MAN LR
( under Struck LR x Nottalooza)
Ex/O: Rainie Kuchynka
Arabian English Show Hack
JTR 14 & Under
JTC THUNDERSTRUCK
( e Hurricane x Charmming Adona)
Ex/O: Noah Csincsak
HA/AA English Show Hack
JOTR 18 & Under
NS INTENSITY
(Majesteit x CA Natashya)
Ex/O: Kamryn Grimesey
HA/AA English Show Hack JTR 15-18
AMERICAN HUSTLE
(SF Aftershoc x My New Year’s Eve)
Ex: Haley Waldschmidt
O: Nicci Reeder Waldschmidt
HA/AA English Show Hack
JTR 14 & Under
SS WALK THE LINE
(SF Aftershoc x Rebecca Cash)
Ex/O: Isobel Comolli
Arabian Ladies Side Saddle All Seats JOTR
BOOGIE MAN LR
( under Struck LR x Nottalooza)
Ex/O: Rainie Kuchynka
Arabian Ladies Side Saddle English JTR
OLIVIA POPE
(Come To Poppa x Natalie D)
Ex: Reese Tierney
O: Stuart and Rebecca Vesty
Arabian Ladies Side Saddle Western JTR
VOYAGE A
(Onyx A x Gianni Versace VF)
Ex/O: Rachel Vaughn
HA/AA Ladies Side Saddle All Seats JOTR
AMERICAN HUSTLE
(SF Aftershoc x My New Year’s Eve)
Ex: Haley Waldschmidt
O: Nicci Reeder Waldschmidt
HA/AA Ladies Side Saddle English JTR
SEEKING HEIR DA
(VJ Royal Heir x Storm Seeker)
Ex/O: Lily Sandell
HA/AA Ladies Side Saddle Western JTR
KERSPlASH PR
(SJ Mikhail x Gradie)
Ex: Emily Sakamoto | O: Lisa Garrison
Arabian Mounted Native Costume
JOTR & JTR 14 & Under
SURFACE TO HEIR PF
(A res Heir x Miz Show Biz)
Ex/O: Alexandra Lyons
Arabian Mounted Native Costume
JTR 15-18
RC IRON MAN
(Black Daniels x DA Lady Ti any)
Ex: Kendall Rooks | O: Debra Hines
HA/AA Mounted Native Costume
JOTR/JTR 14 & Under
HOT RODDER PF
(Baske A re x A Lady At Heart)
Ex/O: Brooke Peterson
HA/AA Mounted Native Costume
JTR 15-18
IMPERIALL HEIR
(A res Heir x Ritida)
Ex: Harper Patillo Rose| O: On e Bit, Inc.
Arabian Pleasure Driving JTD
RC IRON MAN
(Black Daniels x DA Lady Ti any)
Ex: Kendall Rooks | O: Debra Hines
Arabian Country Pleasure Driving JTD
HEAVENLEI SKYFIRE WA
(Baske A re x Heavenlei)
Ex: James Stachowski, Jr.
O: Racey Arabians LLC
HA/AA Pleasure Driving JTD
HA THE WEEKEND
(HA Toskcan Sun x Aurora’s Annie)
Ex/O: Rainie Kuchynka
HA/AA Country Pleasure Driving JTD
CRACKER JAX PF
(Undulata’s Nutcracker x Made You Look)
Ex/O: Rainie Kuchynka
Arabian Reining Horse JOTR 15-18 KHAARGA HARLEQUIN
(Khaarga Ibn Magnate x Khaarga Contessa)
Ex/O: Hannah Rasmussen
Arabian Reining Horse JOTR 14 & Under ELLIANTRA
(Ecahnaten PWA x Chic Elechtra)
Ex: Riley Lallo
O: Lallo Performance Horses LLC
Arabian Reining JTR (tie) AREZZONA BOUND
(Arezzo NL x Angelina D)
Ex/O: Bailey Fleming
Arabian Reining JTR (tie) EAF HESA COMET
(Hesa Zee x Amhaleys Comet)
Ex: Riley Lallo | O: Eleanor Hamilton
Arabian Reining Intermediate & Rookie JTR AREZZONA BOUND
(Arezzo NL x Angelina D)
Ex/O: Bailey Fleming
HA/AA Reining Horse JOTR 15-18 AMERICAN HONEY LM
(Magnum eory x Ciscos Blu Belle)
Ex: Eva Matthias
O: Lon or Kimbra Matthias
HA/AA Reining Horse JOTR 14 & Under ARKYS SMART LEO LAD
( e Arkangel x Smart Leo Lady)
Ex/O: Riley Lallo
HA/AA Reining JTR, Intermediate JTR & Rookie JTR SH IMVAGUELYSURPRISED
(Jerry Lees Surprise x Sage Hill Karla)
Ex: Emily Stucky | O: Karen Shaw
YOUTH CHAMPIONS
Arabian Western Trail JOTR LOLITAS JAMAAL
(Jake Jamaal JCA x Lolita V)
Ex/O: Isabella Sobral
Arabian Western Trail JTR 15-18 & English Trail JTR CP DAUNTLESS
(Baske A re x CP Princess)
Ex/O: Clara Fullilove
Arabian Western Trail JTR 14 & Under WERDYCT
(Kalaloch x Ecahos Jewel WC)
Ex/O: Hailey Mannick
Arabian Western Trail JTR Select SALTY JOHN
(GS Khochise x Shezn Uptaown Girl)
Ex: Anna Matlock
O: Lauren or Alexis Gassen
HA/AA Western Trail JOTR & JTR 15-18 BSF BUFFALO BILL CODY
(Were Dun x ABL Antiqua)
Ex/O: Gracie Guadagnolo
HA/AA Western Trail JTR 14 & Under & JTR Select HOLLYWOOD SUNSET
HA/AA VRH Limited Ranch Cow Work JTR MY CHICS REVOLVER
(Scarlets Revolver x My Chics Dually)
Ex: Eva Matthias | O: Megan Sitzman
Arabian Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure JOTR
SWIFTKICKNTHEPANTZ RA
(TA Mozart x Al Marah Swift River)
Ex: Riley Lallo
O: Lallo Performance Horses LLC
Arabian Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure
JTR 15-18
KHREDENTIAL
(Khash PGA x Aphrodite FA)
Ex: Alana Chanelle Becker
O: Steven or Karen Freeman
Arabian Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure
JTR 14 & Under
HESA ARTFULL ZEE
(Hesa Zee x Artymusme)
Ex: Riley Lallo | O: Eleanor Hamilton
Arabian Ranch Horse Riding JOTR ELLIANTRA
(Ecahnaten PWA x Chic Elechtra)
Ex: Riley Lallo
O: Lallo Performance Horses LLC
Arabian Ranch Horse Riding
JTR 15-18 (tie)
DOUBLE MO SEVEN RA
(TA Mozart x Al Marah Swift River)
Ex/O: Anabelle om
REINING
YOUTH CHAMPIONS
Arabian Ranch Horse Riding JTR 15-18 (tie)
BACKIN BLAC
(Black x Preimas Pippin)
Ex: Alissa Anderson | O: Bliss Arabians
Arabian Ranch Horse Riding JTR 14 & Under
EAF HESA COMET
(Hesa Zee x Amhaleys Comet)
Ex: Riley Lallo | O: Eleanor Hamilton
HA/AA Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure JOTR
HOTTIMEINMOTOWN RA
(TA Mozart x Delicatta)
Ex/O: Clara Fullilove
HA/AA Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure
JTR 14 & Under
MY GREAT ESCAPE RA
(TA Mozart x MS Great Whiz)
Ex: Sloan Balint | O: Jami Balint
HA/AA Ranch Horse Riding JOTR & JTR 15-18
HOTTIMEINMOTOWN RA
(TA Mozart x Delicatta)
Ex/O: Clara Fullilove
HA/AA Ranch Riding JTR 14 & Under
MY GREAT ESCAPE RA
(TA Mozart x MS Great Whiz)
Ex: Sloan Balint | O: Jami Balint
A/HA/AA English Pleasure W/T LOVE AND MONEY FSH
(Money Makar x Love Shaik)
Ex/O: Isabella Ramirez
Arabian Country English Pleasure W/T TAHZI
(HA Toskcan Sun x Tizi Melu)
Ex/O: Adelynn ompson
HA/AA Country English Pleasure W/T FLINTTS LUCKY STRIKE
(A re Bey V x Cedar Creek My Ridge eld Lady)
Ex: Adelynn ompson | O: Joan Kazeck
Arabian Western Pleasure W/J VOLTURI
(DA Valentino x Abha Qalams)
Ex: William Peterson | O: ISRA Arabians
HA/AA Western Pleasure W/J CALIENTE VIRTUOSO
(C A Hermoso x Crystal Blue Persuasion)
Ex: William Peterson | O: Robin Porter
Arabian Hunter Pleasure W/T RED DAWNN
(SF Aftershoc x Otherwise Engaged)
Ex/O: Amelia Sutton-Pedraza
HA/AA Hunter Pleasure W/T GENTLEMANS QUARTERLY
(Couturier x BP Lyrica Bey)
Ex: So a Alvarez | O: Cynthia Burkman
A/HA/AA Short Stirrup Reining TR FLASH FLOOD
(What It Takes x Tidal Wave Jackie)
Ex/O: Logan Grinton
A/HA/AA Western Trail W/J
TR BUTCH CASSIDY
(Sundance Kid V x Chip Dot Comm)
Ex: Brielle Stack
O: Bonnie or Brooke Bunker
A/HA/AA Ranch Horse Riding W/T/J BRINGIN SEXY BACK
(TA Giovanni x Peponitas Chic)
Ex: Ava Maywald | O: Jackie Pakula
Arabian Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure W/T TRULY UNDENIABLE
(Robby x CF Unforgetable)
Ex: Korie Popovich | O: Heather Davis
HA/AA Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure W/T
RCC FRIAR TUCK
(Cashmere MA x Lil Red Riding Hood)
Ex/O: Korie Popovich
UPHA , SHOWMANSHIP & HORSEMANSHIP
UPHA Arabian Breeds Challenge Cup
JTR 14-17
EWA GARMENDIA
e High Spheirrow
(VJ Royal Heir x Captivating Style)
O: Ewa Garmendia
UPHA Arabian Breeds Challenge Cup
JTR 13 & Under
ELIZABETH DEARING
King’s Ransum
(MHR Nobility x Atlanta)
O: Vicki Humphrey
UPHA Arabian Breeds Challenge Cup
Walk/Trot 10 & Under
SKYLAR VANSCHOONHOVEN
Heir Man
(Candeman x Sweet Airianna D)
O: Bella Cavallo Stables LLC
A/HA/AA Showmanship JTH 15-18
AVA GRACE JOHN
MD Leonidas
(Vitorio TO x She-N-I)
O: Sandra Wenger and Tamra Dwars-Meudt
A/HA/AA Showmanship JTH 11-14
VELA WAGGONER
MR Univerce
(Another Hero x Foxxie Lady)
O: Lyra Waggoner
A/HA/AA Showmanship JTH
Walk/Trot 10 & Under
AVA MORRISSEY
Magnum Cum Laude ORA
(Magnum Psyche x Justawish TBA)
O: Mandi Jorgensen
Arabian Western Horsemanship JTR 15-18
MCKENNA BEIN
Adessa SS
(PA Gazsi x Cassandra SS)
O: Ashlye Daniel
YOUTH CHAMPIONS
Arabian Western Horsemanship JTR 14 & Under
ISABELLA SOBRAL
Lolitas Jamaal
(Jake Jamaal JCA x Lolita V)
O: Isabella Sobral or Laurie Long
HA/AA Western Horsemanship JTR 15-18
EVA MATTHIAS
SF Tucks Big Bang (Tucknicolor x WC Eksplozja)
O: Lon or Kimbra Matthias
HA/AA Western Horsemanship JTR 14 & Under
ISABELLA SOBRAL
Shine Sheikh Shine
(Starlights Starbrite x JSN Moto Binti)
O: Isabella Sobral or Laurie Long
Arabian Saddle Seat Eq JTR 15-18
BOSTYN LEFFLER
WP Corporate America
(WP Corporate Image x Barbarys Angel)
O: Mackenzie Hooker
Arabian Saddle Seat Eq JTR 14 & Under REESE TIERNEY
Olivia Pope
(Come To Poppa x Natalie D)
O: Stuart and Rebecca Vesty
Arabian Saddle Seat Eq W/T 10 & Under
ADELYNN THOMPSON
Tahzi
(HA Toskcan Sun x Tizi Melu)
O: Adelynn & Natasha ompson and Gail Brown
HA/AA Saddle Seat Eq JTR 15-18
ALEXA GILBERT
Toi Sensation CRF
HA/AA Saddle Seat Eq JTR 14 & Under
REESE TIERNEY
KF Amour Magni e
(VCP Magni re x Harlem’s Lady Love)
O: Shannon Brooks Tierney
HA/AA Saddle Seat Eq W/T 10 & Under
ADELYNN THOMPSON
Flintts Lucky Strike
(A re Bey V x Cedar Creek My Ridge eld Lady)
O: Joan Kazeck
Arabian Western Seat Eq W/J 10 & Under
HOPE BROWN
ABD Verona
(SF Veraz x Kali Jamaal)
O: Fernanda Bernaldo
HA/AA Western Seat Eq W/J 10 & Under
SOFIA ALVAREZ
Secret Lil Princes CB
(Jake Jamaal JCA x Alada Secrets)
O: Cynthia Burkman
A/HA/AA Hunter Seat Eq Over Obstacles
JTR 18 & Under
JOSIE DRUMMOND
AM Rising Star
(AM Good Oldboy x AM Power With Honor)
O: Lori Cooper
Arabian Hunter Seat Eq NTJ JTR 15-18
MCKENNA BEIN
Adessa SS
(PA Gazsi x Cassandra SS)
O: Ashlye Daniel
Arabian Hunter Seat Eq NTJ
JTR 14 & Under
CARSON SMITH
Luxemere Patrician
(Falcon BHF x TA Jihana Bey)
O: Kimberly Graves
Arabian Hunter Seat Eq NTJ
HA/AA Hunter Seat Eq NTJ
JTR 15-18
CLARA FULLILOVE
Hottimeinmotown RA
(TA Mozart x Delicatta)
O: Clara or Emma Fullilove
HA/AA Hunter Seat Eq NTJ
JTR 14 & Under
SOLIA STRAUB
Victor Supreme GL
(Clanfair Signature x Laleek)
O: Straub Family
HA/AA Hunter Seat Eq NTJ
W/T 10 & Under
ADDISON WRIGHT
SAR Jasmine
(Bur-Dal Lord Solomon x TA Golden Girl)
O: Lori Cooper
Arabian Reining Seat Eq JTR 15-18
MCKENNA BEIN
Adessa SS (PA Gazsi x Cassandra SS)
O: Ashlye Daniel
Arabian Reining Seat Equitation
JTR 14 & Under
RILEY LALLO
EAF Hesa Comet
(Hesa Zee x Amhaleys Comet)
O: Eleanor Hamilton
HA/AA Reining Seat Equitation JTR 15-18
EVA MATTHIAS
American Honey LM
(Magnum eory x Ciscos Blu Belle)
O: Lon or Kimbra Matthias
HA/AA Reining Seat Equitation
JTR 14 & Under
RILEY LALLO
O: Gary Ferguson EQUITATION
(Matoi x Alpha Phi)
O: KGB Texas Marketing/Public Relations, Inc.
W/T 10 & Under
AVA MORRISSEY
Magnum Cum Laude ORA
(Magnum Psyche x Justawish TBA)
O: Mandi Jorgensen
Genuinely A Marquis
(Im Genuinely Smart x Basks Marqed Legacy)
A/HA/AA Dressage Seat Eq JTR 15-18
JAMES FEHR
Macni cent RS
(Maclintock V x Ravvens Skylark)
O: Rancho Sonado LLC
A/HA/AA Dressage Seat Eq
JTR 14 & Under SOFIE HOLMES
Montecristo PR
(SJ Mikhail x Maximilia PR)
O: So e Holmes
Arabian SH Mare Hunter Type JTH ROL CYGN HERE
(Cytosk x Holli Berry)
Ex: Hannah James | O: Deborah Elder
Arabian SH Gelding Hunter Type JTH
MSU SALVITOR
(Eon O x MSU Salignac)
Ex/O: Anna Matlock
HA/AA SH Mare Hunter Type JTH HOLLABACKGIRL
(El Shihab x RFF Delightful)
Ex: Aubrey Vuagniaux
O: Charity Vuagniaux
HA/AA SH Gelding Hunter Type JTH
KMA SKY METO THEMOON
(Sky Fighter x KMA Baieda)
Ex/O: Skylar Young
Arabian SH U/S JTR 15-18
BACKIN BLAC
(Black x Preimas Pippin)
Ex: Alissa Anderson | O: Bliss Arabians
Arabian SH U/S JTR 14 & Under
IIB PRETTY WICKED
(Audacious PS x AH Wicked Ways)
Ex: Benjamin Gore | O: Jennifer Jelich
YOUTH CHAMPIONS
Arabian SH U/S W/T 10 & Under MINYA DB
( e Sequel RCA x Makeda DB)
Ex: Molly Eberly | O: Cindy Eberly
HA/AA SH U/S JTR 15-18
MAJARRES CAIRO
(Zulu MV x Majarres Halan Fujai)
Ex/O: Saritah Sinha
HA/AA SH U/S JTR 14 & Under ITALIAN GOLD
(Gianni Versailles x MC Zans Beauty)
Ex: Charlotte McCarthy
O: Ronald Bartholomew
HA/AA SH U/S W/T 10 & Under
TR IT TAKES CASH
(What It Takes x TR Big Chic To Cash)
Ex: Sloane Kimmell | O: Jennifer Jelich
Arabian SH Show Hack JTR
LUXEMERE PATRICIAN
(Falcon BHF x TA Jihana Bey)
Ex: Marissa Bartholomew
O: Kimberly Graves
HA/AA SH Show Hack JTR
HS INTERSTLR OVRDRYVE
(Mirage V x Savannah SHF)
Ex: Catie Reachard | O: Holly Schnader
Arabian SH Mare Dressage Type JTH
MSU START ALL OVER
(MSU Serzeem x MSU Star Maker)
Ex/O: Bella Boyd
Arabian SH Gelding Dressage Type JTH
AUR MAXIMUM MAGIC HF
(TA Caarnot x AUR Magic Mirage)
Ex: Zoey Jordan
O: Elizabeth or Brian Kaebnick
HA/AA SH Mare Dressage Type JTH
SF ITS A MIRAKEL
(Rico x CF Windsock)
Ex/O: Averie Horiski
HA/AA SH Gelding Dressage Type JTH
MAJARRES CAIRO
(Zulu MV x Majarres Halan Fujai)
Ex/O: Saritah Sinha
A/HA/AA Dressage Training Level
JOTR 15-18
MAJARRES CAIRO
(Zulu MV x Majarres Halan Fujai)
Ex/O: Saritah Sinha
A/HA/AA Dressage Training Level
JOTR 14 & Under
MONTECRISTO PR
(SJ Mikhail x Maximilia PR)
Ex/O: So e Holmes
A/HA/AA Dressage Training Level
JTR/First Level JOTR 15-18
ITALIAN GOLD
(Gianni Versailles x MC Zans Beauty)
Ex: Marissa Bartholomew
O: Ronald Bartholomew
A/HA/AA Dressage Training Level
JTR 14 & Under
LADY AISLINN
(Sir Sinclair x CV Aislinnbeya)
Ex/O: Samantha Wood
A/HA/AA Dressage First Level
JOTR 14 & Under
RUELETTE
(Rubinus x O Obsession)
Ex/O: Danica Lynn Woodward
A/HA/AA Dressage First Level
JTR 15-18
HOTLIPS HOULIHAN
(Asil Sama A x Asil Valkerie Toi)
Ex: Alexis Forster | O: Danielle Katz
A/HA/AA Dressage First Level
JTR 14 & Under
SRC HOMERUN VE
(Vega VA x Aphrodites)
Ex/O: Elizabeth Kaufman
SPORT HORSE / DRESSAGE
A/HA/AA Dressage Second Level JTR
UPHORIA CF
(UB40 x BF Moon Fyre)
Ex: Elinor Samarias | O: Samantha Werner
A/HA/AA USDF Intro Dressage
W/T 10 & Under
AUR MAGIC MIRAGE
(Aul Magic x El Ghazis Mirage)
Ex: Stella Gaines
O: Denny or Kristin Herbst
A/HA/AA Western Dressage Intro JTR
RB FULL BLASTT
(Sand Blastt x RB Lam Tara)
Ex: Alexis Forster
O: Ronald Bartholomew
A/HA/AA Western Dressage Basic JTR ITALIAN GOLD
(Gianni Versailles x MC Zans Beauty)
Ex: Marissa Bartholomew
O: Ronald Bartholomew
YOUTH CHAMPIONS
A/HA/AA Western Dressage Level 1 JTR
DAKOTA CHEX
( e King Of e Cat x Know Trouble TL)
Ex: Skylar Young | O: Karen Fischer
Arabian Hunter Hack JTR
HS KHOZMIK ENKHANTED
(Klint Black x TR Mikimoto)
Ex: Samantha Wood | O: Holly Schnader
HA/AA Hunter Hack JTR 18 & Under
ITALIAN GOLD
(Gianni Versailles x MC Zans Beauty)
Ex: Marissa Bartholomew
O: Ronald Bartholomew
Arabian Regular Working Hunter JTR
HS KHOZMIK ENKHANTED
(Klint Black x TR Mikimoto)
Ex: Anleigh Ahlert | O: Holly Schnader
HA/AA Regular Working Hunter JTR DESIGNER FASHION
(DEO Valente x Ekarri Ahal)
Ex: Arabella Ferris | O: Alissa Donnell
A/HA/AA Working Hunter 2ft JTR
CINNAMON SHAKER
(Ali Niya x April)
Ex: Alexis Forster | O: Ronald Bartholomew
A/HA/AA Working Hunter
14.2 & Under JTR
HS KHOZMIK ENKHANTED
(Klint Black x TR Mikimoto)
Ex: Anleigh Ahlert | O: Holly Schnader
A/HA/AA Working Hunter
Cross Rails 10 & Under COOKIEZ N CREME
(Foxcry Rose Cu inks x Mocha Amore)
Ex: Caroline Hollowell | O: Krystle Bono
YOUTH NATIONAL PHOTO SPONSOR
FRIENDS OF VAIL FOUNDATION
YOUTH NATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOW
YEARLY SPONSORS
s ar i inners
Each year the Arabian Horse Foundation awards multiple scholarships to individuals at the Youth National Arabian & Half-Arabian Championship Horse Show in Oklahoma City, Okla. These scholarships are generously donated and awarded to those youth who have worked so hard to make it to this prestigious show. This year $21,000 was awarded in numerous classes. Winners provided by Arabian Horse Foundation.
HA/AA Western Trail Horse JOTR
$1,000 CHAMPION
GRACIE GUADAGNOLO
BSF BUFFALO BILL CODY
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
ANABELLE THOM
SH DUDES DIABLO
HA/AA Sport Horse Under Saddle JTR 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
SARITAH SINHA
MAJARRES CAIRO
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
MARISSA BARTHOLOMEW
ITALIAN GOLD
Arabian Ranch Horse Riding JTR 15-18
$750 CHAMPION
ANABELLE THOM
DOUBLE MO SEVEN RA
$750 CHAMPION
ALISSA ANDERSON
BACKIN BLAC
Arabian Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure JTR 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
ALANA CHANELLE BECKER
KHREDENTIAL
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
ANABELLE THOM
DOUBLE MO SEVEN RA
Arabian Ranch Horse Riding JOTR
$1,000 CHAMPION
RILEY LALLO
ELLIANTRA
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
RILEY LALLO
SWIFTKICKNTHEPANTZ RA
HA/AA Country Pleasure Driving JTD
$1,000 CHAMPION
RAINIE KUCHYNKA
CRACKER JAX PF
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
HARPER PATILLO ROSE
IMPERIALL HEIR
HA/AA English Trail Horse JTR
$1,000 CHAMPION
SKYLAR YOUNG
KMA SKY METRO THEMOON
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
GRACIE GUADAGNOLO
BSF BUFFALO BILL CODY
Arabian Country English Pleasure JOTR 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
MACKENZIE HOOKER
SHF MATILDABEY
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
BROOKE LANDON
LA BELLA VITA
HA/AA Performance Halter Gelding 3 & Over JTH
$1,000 CHAMPION
ISOBEL COMOLLI
KHRIS LE DOUX J
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
HENLEY WILSON
EDURADO KA
HA/AA Hunter Pleasure JOTR 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
ALEXIS PETERSON
RGT FIREBALL WHISKEY
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
ELLA VAN DEN HERIK
SRC SOLAR ECLIPSX
Arabian Western Pleasure JOTR 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
ALANA CHANELLE BECKER
ADMIRAL JULLYEN V
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
HANNAH RASMUSSEN
SHACAGO PGA
HA/AA Western Pleasure JOTR 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
RAINIE KUCHYNKA
BILLY THE KHYD
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
STEPHANIE BARRIS
CPH SUPERSTAR
HA/AA Reining Horse JOTR 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
EVA MATTHIAS
AMERICAN HONEY LM
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
TARYN TODD
MOCHA JAVA CHIP
Showmanship JTH 15-18
$1,000 CHAMPION
AVA GRACE JOHN MD LEONIDAS
$500 RESERVE CHAMPION
HANNAH HIIVA
SS A NOBLE STAR
To access a list of available scholarships with direct links to information on how to apply, scan the code!
2024 YOUTH NATIONALS
s
OVERALL PERFORMANCE
Riley Lallo
Rainie Kuchynka
Reese Tierney
Eva Matthias
Isobel Comolli
HUNTER PLEASURE
SADDLE SEAT
August 8-17, 2024 | Red Deer, Alberta
THE KHANQUISTADOR
i ime AWARD
“Awarded to the oldest horse at Canada’s National Championship show to honor and show respect for our beloved Arabian companions.”
“ is year of 2024 marks the inaugural Khanquistador Lifetime Achievement Award,” shares Arianna Bell. “Khanquistador was a remarkable 20-year-old Arabian gelding who truly embodied the most important characteristics of our beloved breed. He spent his entire life—bred, raised, and solely owned—in Canada, and was not only an incredible athlete but an even better friend. Sadly, we lost him last year to colic. What was to be his nal year in the arena has now become a tribute to all horses out there who love their jobs well into their senior years.
“ roughout his impressive 16-year career in the show arena, Khanquistador earned over 70 champion and reserve champion titles at the Canadian, Youth, and Sport Horse Nationals. He competed in 15 disciplines, ranging from Hunter Pleasure to Over Fences, English Trail and Ranch Riding. Not only did he compete on the Arabian circuit, but also the open hunter circuit and three-day eventing, and worked with Stollery hospital programs for children with special needs, serving as an ambassador to the breed.
“He was cherished by his family and was my best friend. Beyond his outstanding show record, he was loving and loyal, always giving 100% of himself. He carried me from walk-trot classes to the beginning of my journey in the adult amateur ring, navigating every challenge we faced together. ere are too many highlights in his lifetime for me to possibly recount. He was too much horse for me when I was young, but we stuck it out. We went from being a moderate disaster nearly every ride, to a team who seemed to communicate through thoughts alone.
“He did everything for me and gave it his all. Without him, I don’t know that I ever would have grown into the horsewoman I am today. He inspired it all. He was with me when I was with my other horses, and a connection to so many incredible people. We spent more than 15 years of our lives together and the bond we share is one I’ll always carry. “
When asked what this award re ects, Arianna says, “ e Arabian horse is renowned for its remarkable longevity and unwavering spirit, exemplifying a legacy of strength and loyalty that transcends generations. From its origins in ancient deserts to its modern role as a cherished companion, Khanquistador embodied the timeless qualities of endurance, steadfastness, and lifelong devotion. His legacy inspires us to recognize and honor those horses who continue to show us love, loyalty, longevity, and dedication throughout their lives.
“ is award is dedicated to celebrating those special horses who give their all to us; who help us grow and nurture and teach us. While no horse is with us forever, the lessons, memories, and love they leave behind lasts a lifetime.”
i se ... GOES TO
It began with a phone call to Tim Wigren from a friend who runs a rescue for horses.
A gentleman facing severe health issues reached out to him to rescue his horses from their current dire straits. Tim being one of his calls, went to help. In the mix was Tuhotmidun Eclipse, a cute 2001 black and white Half-Arabian gelding, who from the moment he arrived at the Wigren’s farm, made it clear there was something special about him. He wasn’t the biggest, most talented, or the fanciest mover, but he was kind and patient. He had a knack with making kids feel comfortable with riding and he was a catalyst for making challenges seem like nothing.
His current rider, Maddox Swenson, has overcome his own challenges with Autism and he and Eclipse, having started in walk-trot at Pinto shows, have now won a reserve championship and top three at Canada’s National Championships their rst (and last) year as a team, in Saddle
Seat Equitation JTR 18 & Under and Half-Arabian Country Pleasure JTR respectively. ey even entered the open country pleasure classes when Maddox found out he got to hand gallop, and he and Eclipse both enjoyed it enthusiastically.
As many of our senior horses do, Eclipse looks after his riders, giving them the con dence they need to ride. At 23 years young, Eclipse will now spend his days with a full roster of loyal students, including helping one of Tim’s past equitation riders who su ered the loss of his left hand. Eclipse has been able to help the young man get his con dence to ride in the full bridle again and return to competing in the local shows—from rescue to roses.
Being the rst horse to receive the Khanquistador Lifetime award, and it being his last show, in honor of Q who didn’t get his moment, Eclipse was backed out of the arena after his nal class. n
2024 ARABIAN NATIONAL BREEDER FINALS & SILVER SIRE FUTURITY
September 11-14
Scottsdale, AZ
Enthusiastic breeders, owners, exhibitors and spectators arrived in Scottsdale, Arizona midSeptember for the opportunity to showcase their best at the prestigious Arabian National Breeder Finals (ANBF) and Silver Sire Futurity. e Arabian Horse Association of Arizona—responsible for organizing and running the Scottsdale All-Arabian Horse Show for nearly 70 years—wanted to create a show that recognized breeders and provided another marketing venue, while o ering signi cant prize money to entice top breeders to bring their best representatives. A mecca for everything Arabian, exquisite Arabians with pedigrees from around the world and their passionate supporters came together for a weekend of good company, horse-talk and beautiful horses.
Expectations are high, so entering the Breeder Finals is not taken lightly. ose presenting bring only those that re ect today’s most notable halter and performance horses.
Competition in the championships was strong and breeding decisions for future winners were surely made. is year’s 2024 Rae-Dawn Arabians High Point Breeder Award went to Pegasus Arabians.
Performance exhibitors were equally enthusiastic, again showcasing the Arabian’s versatility in beautiful form. Country, western and hunter pleasure, as well as specialty and ranch classes were all present, the ANBF providing a space for all to represent the incredible Arabian horse and appeal to all interests.
As it continues to be a must-attend event with a ton of media coverage, free admission, and an admiring public, the Arabian National Breeder Finals and Silver Sire Futurity is a source for igniting the passion of new enthusiasts for the Arabian horse and all that comes with it.
JUDGES
JOE ALBERTI | NILS ISMER | MICHAEL VAN HANDEL | MIKE WILSON | DEB WITTY
PERFORMANCE: JOE ALBERTI | DEB WITTY
RESULTS
SUPREME SENIOR STALLIONS
Gold Champion ARIA MAJESTY
Marwan Al Shaqab x Honey’s Delight RB
Ex: Andrew Sellman | O: Laura Koch
B: Aria Prestige Holdings LLC
Silver Champion DSA AVENTADOR RCF
Polidoro FC x Suzanna MPA
Ex: Joao Carlos Sousa | O: Sam Peacemaker
B: Jack & Elizabeth Milam or Daniel & Suzanne Acevedo
Bronze Champion CHARISMAGIC ONE RBV
S.M.A.Magic One x Charis RBV
Ex: Manuel Luguin
O/B: Karen Cunningham
SUPREME SENIOR MARES
Gold Champion JASMINIA AS
Soul Of Marwan AS x Jasmine Love AS
Ex: Rodolfo Guzzo | O: Mark Davis
B: Arabian Soul Partners Ltd.
Silver Champion G LAVIE ENROSE G
Exxalt x Legacys Rose HVP
Ex: Andrew Sellman
O: Dom Jad Men Irrevocable Trust | B: Glenn Garrett
Bronze Champion JORGA RAR
QR Marc x Challese LL
Ex: Ricardo Rivero | O: Jorga RAR Group LLC
B: Regan or Renae Rohl
SUPREME JUNIOR COLTS
Gold Champion RA VERITAS
Dominic M x Veronica GA
Ex: Andrew Sellman | O/B: Inga Applequist
Silver Champion GHALANTE AS
Soul Of Marwan AS x Mistic Dominic HVP
Ex: Rodolfo Guzzo | O: Arabian Soul Partners Ltd.
B: Desert Sky Arabian LLC
Bronze Champion ROYAL RAJAAH
Soul Of Marwan AS x Rhadashah Arabco
Ex: Ricardo Rivero | O/B: Mark Davis
SUPREME JUNIOR FILLIES
Gold Champion LADY NICA SRA
EKS Alihandro x Lady Dominica J
Ex: Andrew Sellman | O: Theresa Lungwitz
B: Lady Dominica Holdings LLC and Dan or Maureen Grossman
Silver Champion SHANELLE PCF
Sultan GK x Aliyah Vision PCF
Ex: Joao Carlos Sousa
O/B: Sam Peacemaker
Bronze Champion PENNY ALBIDAYER
Lahab Albidayer x PA Penelope
Ex: Sandro Pinha
O/B: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Al Qasimi
CHALLENGE CUP YEARLING COLTS/GELDINGS
Gold Champion OFW LUCERO
Dominic M x Lulu Marajj
Ex: Andrew Sellman | O/B: Orrion Farms LLC
Silver Champion ARIA BELFAST
D Shakhat x La Belle Shawan HVP
Ex: Austin Colangelo
O/B: El Shawan Legacy Partners LLC
Bronze Champion BENIXX PA
Berlin MP x Marsala PA
Ex: Cornelio Sinaloa | O/B: Pegasus Arabians
CHALLENGE CUP YEARLING FILLIES
Gold Champion SEDRA ALGHAZALI
AJ Radman x Amal AJF
Ex: Rodolfo Guzzo | O: Mark Davis
B: Baraa Alghazali
Silver Champion MC DOMINICA
Dominic M x WES Cleopatra
Ex: Joao Carlos Sousa | O: Sam Peacemaker
B: Fieldcrest Farms LLC
Bronze Champion ARIA IMARA
Ibn Farid UAE x Jiuliana BR
Ex: Austin Colangelo
O/B: Desert Dream Arabian Horse Partners LLC
WEANLING SUPREME COLTS/GELDINGS
Gold Champion ROYAL RAHUL
AJ Radman x Royal Hadara
Ex: Amanda Pagan | O/B Mark Davis
Silver Champion TIAGO PA
CW Stallone x Tempress PA
Ex: Shelby Schaeffer
O/B: Pegasus Arabians
Bronze Champion MC GALLICI
JR Francois x MC Giannya
Ex: Kenny Mosher
O: Abin Adi Arabians
B: McDonald Arabians
WEANLING SUPREME FILLIES
Gold Champion EXXTRAH SPICY HF
Taj Raheem x Exxempress
Ex/O/B: Stephanie Hartley
Silver Champion PIMIENTA PA
Preludio OSB x Stellaria PA
Ex: Tory Wikel
O/B: Pegasus Arabians
Bronze Champion ROYAL MARIAH
AJ Radman x Maria AL
Ex: Amanda Pagan | B/O: Mark Davis
SUPREME GELDINGS
Gold Champion OKW ALIKAI
EKS Alihandro x OFW Praise
Ex: Andrew Sellman
O: Hagale Family Arabians LLC
B: Orrion Farms LLC
Silver Champion ARIA COPENHAGEN
EKS Alihandro x Aria Mischka
Ex: Austin Colangelo
O/B: The Aria Partners LLC
Bronze Champion MARIANO AN
Marwan Al Shaqab x Maria PCF
Ex: Sandro Pinha | O: Isobel Comolli
B: Stacy Sachen
EGYPTIAN HERITAGE RELATED STALLIONS
Gold Champion ARIA BALERO
Baha AA x Clio Cerise
Ex: Austin Colangelo
O/B: Aria Prestige Holdings LLC
Silver Champion SINONS SEQUEL VCR
Om El Sinon x Mystiques Sequel VCR
Ex: Troy White
O/B: Volney Creek Ranch LLC
EGYPTIAN HERITAGE RELATED MARES
Gold Champion ARIA KIVA
Baha AA x Aria Keepsake
Ex: Austin Colangelo
O/B: Julianna Partners LLC
Silver Champion FERAMINA
Ibn Farid UAE x Faleenah El Masr
Ex: Davide Mariani
O/B: Raymond Mazzei
36th Annual Silver Sire Futurity Champions
Judges: Priscilla Cluff | Todd Hickerson | Lance Lewis
to our yearly supporters who benefit the community at large.
YEAR-ROUND SPONSORS:
JARVIS INSURANCE | RAE-DAWN ARABIANS
SHOW/EVENT PHOTO SPONSORS:
AMAZING HORSE WOMAN | ANVIL ARABIANS
DEPAOLO EQUINE CONCEPTS | ANNA DIMARCO & PLATINUM HEIRS
EQUINE ATHLETE | FRIENDS OF VAIL | HAGALE FAMILY ARABIANS LLC
PROUD HERITAGE TRAINING CENTER | RAE-DAWN ARABIANS
RINGSIDE PRODUCTIONS | SCION ARABIANS
Baske Afire x Matoska
Afire Bey V x IXL Miss Firefly
Apollopalooza x SMS Forever Bay
2x U.S. National Champion • U.S. Reserve National Champion
SIRE OF 66 NATIONAL WINNERS WITH 417 NATIONAL WINS
Afire Bey V x Brassmis
SIRE OF 18 NATIONAL WINNERS WITH 102 NATIONAL WINS
Aftershoc+ x Italia CCF
Afires Heir x Nevada Spirit VA
Afires Heir x CSP Adriana
U.S. Reserve National Champion
SF Specs Shocwave x Aparty Girl+
U.S. Reserve National Champion
Strawberry Banks Farm is a proud sponsor of the Arabian English Performance Association, supporting its mission since its inception. Over nearly two decades, we’ve celebrated tremendous success in AEPA competitions, showcasing the beauty, talent, and versatility of our English-bred Arabian and Half-Arabian athletes. Our ongoing commitment reflects our passion for excellence and our dedication to fostering the growth of this remarkable association.
Inception x Chardonnay DGL | Owned & Bred by Strawberry Banks Farm Champion Arabian Country English Pl AEPA Pro-AM Challenge with Sawyer Tehan & Lance Lewis
Strawberry Banks Farm Owner, Barbara Chur Trainer, Brian Murch
Na al Champi
Coltrane SS x ROL Fire Mist | Owned & bred by Strawberry Banks Farm
2024 National Reserve Champion AEPA Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity with Lance Lewis
Schatzberg Photo
THE ARABIAN ENGLISH
PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION
with Peter Conway
The AEPA has had a tremendous impact on breeding programs and the quality of our saddle seat horses. It is the most exciting and prestigious class at the United States Nationals.
Our pattern class is unique. It isn’t designed to show how well each horse performs to the pattern, but rather to allow the judges and the audience to evaluate the horse’s gaits, along with carriage and frame. Each gait is scored against the standard, which is fully defined in the AEPA Manifesto found on our website. The Manifesto is a must-read for Breeders and Exhibitors.
Following the individual evaluations, the TOP TEN compete in collective rail classes with $150,000 on the line. Nothing can match the level of excitement and prestige of these classes.
The AEPA was founded to promote the Arabian English horse, to ensure the continuation and appreciation of these magnificent animals. Bring your passion forward again this year and purchase a breeding in the AEPA auction, January 16-20, 2025.
Special thanks to the Ames Family Foundation and Equine Athlete Veterinary Services, for supporting our Nationals classes, and to Strawberry Banks Farm and Conway Arabians, for their support of the Keystone Pro Am and Scottsdale Maturity.
Most of all, THANK YOU, to every stallion owner that donates a breeding, and every breeder that buys one in the auction. It is your love of the Arabian English horse that makes this all possible.
Remember that …
~ A donated breeding makes every foal sired this year by your stallion eligible for every AEPA class. No nomination fees, no forms to fill out. Every foal is automatically enrolled.
~ Foals that are enrolled as AUCTION breedings receive an extra 25% on all winnings in the U.S. Nationals AEPA purebred or Half-Arabian Futurity. (Auction foals must be enrolled in utero to receive the extra prize money).
Stallion owners that donate an auxiliary breeding that sells in the auction also receive an AUCTION breeding.
Created to serve breeders and to promote the Arabian English performance horse, get involved, breed wonderful horses, enjoy the competition, and have these horses in your life!
—Peter Conway, President
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
LARA AMES BARBARA CHUR JIM HAGALE
BRIAN MURCH
JOHN RYANTIM SHEA
JOEL KIESNER
BARRISTER DGL (Prosuasion x Noble Blitz)
FOLSOM (IXL Noble Express x Willette)
AA APOLLO BEY (Huckleberry Bey x April Charm)
FIRE AND GOLDD (Afire Bey V x Brassmis)
BASKE AFIRE* (Afire Bey V x Mac Baske)
(Tempter x A Love Song) APALADIN*
(AA Apollo Bey x Amanda Of Aerie)
AFIRE BEY V* (Huckleberry Bey x Autumn Fire)
AFIRES HEIR (Afire Bey V x Brassmis)
AFIRES VISION (Afire Bey V x Matoskette) APOLLOPALOOZA* (AA Apollo Bey x TF Magical Witch)
(SF Aftershoc x Project Runway)
COLTRANE SS (IXL Noble Express x Brassmis)
TO POPPA (JR Maximilian x Pheobe Afire)
CONSPIRACY OHS (Barcelona BF x OH Thyme To Dance) CSP ROLLING STONE (Afires Heir x CSP Adriana) DS MICK JAGGER (Matoi x JJ Sioux Hope)
CSP GRAND CAYMON (Mamage x JJ Sioux Hope)
DEALERZ CHOICE (Vegaz x Dina Mite SA)
BLACK DANIELS (IXL Noble Express x Victoria Bay)
Cholula)
Dargeeling x Solitairey Dancer)
Noble Express x Bonita Afire)
Bey x Miz Bask)
Heir x Sweet Summer Fire)
(Huckleberry Bey x Hallelujah Bask)
Grand Caymon x CP Viva Vegaz)
SF AFTERSHOC (SF Specs Shocwave x SF Sweet Elegance)
SF DESTINATION VICTRY
(SF Specs Shocwave x Aparty Girl)
(AFire Bey V x Spectra PR)
WP CORPORATE IMAGE
TERRAMOTO PF (SF Aftershoc x Italia CCF) *deceased
ART OF THE DEAL
(IXL Noble Express x Afire and Finesse)
(Nutcracker’s Nirvana x Use Your Illusion) THUNDER STRUCK LR (SF Specs Shocwave x Berre Striking) THE FINEST
CALLAWAYS ADAMANT*
MYSTERY MAN LR
(Heartland Brass x Vesper Lynd)
SF THE PATRIOT (Allience x Spectra PR) SONGWRITER CA (Coltrane SS x ROL
VEGAZ (Apollopalooza x SMS Forever Bay)
(Caramac x Callaways Razzberries) PONY EXPRESS (Mystery Man LR x Sea Lodge Lady Joyce)
THOMAS KFPS (Matthys 504 x Jehaness 484) SF SPECS SHOCWAVE
(Afires Heir x Play Girl MSC) HUBERT VDM (Cizandro x Veldine) KONQUEST (Majesteit x Weaver’s Black Sensation) LEATHERWOOD’S BOURBON RESERVE (Leatherwood’s Starlight x Callaway’s Winning Ways)
(Callaway’s Northern Kiss x Fort Chiswell’s Retained Assets)
VJ ROYAL HEIR (Afires Heir x MA Ghazta Trot)
Fire Mist)
OVER $190,000
PAID OUT IN PRIZE MONEY IN 2024!
Ames Foundation
$100,000 Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity
2024 Champion SONGWRITER CA
(Coltrane SS x ROL Fire Mist)
Ex: Joel Kiesner | B: Conway Arabians, Inc.
O: Candace Avery
Conway Arabians
$20,000 Country English Pleasure AOTR Maturity
2024 Champion OH DANCING ON HEIR
(Afires Heir x DD My Dance)
Ex/O: Lindsay O’Reilly French
B: 5 G and M Ltd. Partnership
Equine Athlete
$50,000 Half-Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity
2024 Champion SD ETERNAL LOVE
(Noble Braveheart x Eternal Fire PF)
Ex: Juliette Dell | B/O: 6D Ranch Ltd.
Strawberry Banks Farm
$24,500 Country English Pleasure Pro Am Challenge
2024 Champion CHENNIN BLANC
(Inception x Chardonnay DGL)
Ex: Sawyer Tehan(Amt.) & Lance Lewis(Pro)
B/O: Strawberry Banks Farm
The AEPA would like to thank its sponsors: Freedman’s, fine leather harnesses, saddlery and accessories, and Equine Athlete Veterinary, the official equine health provider of the AEPA.
THE 2007-2024 ARABIAN ENGLISH
PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION’S
Leaders
FUTURITIES, AOTR MATURITIES & PRO-AM CHALLENGE
Through several ongoing AEPA-related classes at the Scottsdale, U.S. Nationals and Keystone Event, members of the saddle seat community have had the opportunity to earn big payouts from the AEPA since its inception in 2007, totaling over $2.9 MILLION*!
AEPA LEADING
ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY MONEY EARNERS
$40,000 Winners:
SIN CITY (2007)
O: Joseph Kinnarney
B: Venture Farms, Inc.
BRAVE AND NOBLE (2008)
O/B: Marty Shea
SF AFTERSHOC (2009)
O/B: Alicia Guzman Pace
ROL FIRE MIST (2010)
O: Strawberry Banks Farm
B: R O Lervick Arabians
Sires:
Baske Afire (2007 & 2010)
IXL Noble Express (2008)
SF Specs Shocwave (2009)
Trainers: Joel Kiesner (2007 & 2008)
Peter Stachowski (2009)
Brian Murch (2010)
$36,000 Winner:
NOBLE FFYRE (2014 [$30,000]/2011
Yearling [$6,000])
O/B: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.
Sire: IXL Noble Express
Trainer: Joel Kiesner and Allen Zeller (Yearling win)
$30,000 Winners:
CP SHENANIGAN (2011)
O: Katherine Kirby
B: California State Polytechnic Univ.
BEL HEIR LR (2012)
O: William Blankenship
B: Lindsay Rinehart
HEIRS NOBLE LOVE (2013)
O/B: T. Karlton Jackson
SUPREME SENSATION SMP (2015)
O: Falan Alpert
B: Rodney and Jacqueline Thompson
MOVIN ON HEIR WA (2016)
O/B: Whispers Acres, Inc.
INCEPTION (2017)
O/B: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.
GSF INSIDER (2018)
O: Kimberley Munro
B: Nick and Juliet Carden
KT MAHALO (2019)
O: 6D Ranch Ltd.
B: Joel and Ashton Kiesner
DROPS OF JUPITER VH (2020)
O/B: Vicki Humphrey
KT HEIR LORD (2021)
O: J. Kinnarney & B. Marlow
B: J. & A. Kiesner and Starline Arabians LLC
PROSUADED BY LOVE (2022)
O/B: Karlton Jackson
METALIKA RT (2023)
O: Kay Marschel and Rene Ramirez
B: Rene Ramirez
SONGWRITER CA (2024)
O: Candace Avery
B: Conway Arabians, Inc.
Sires:
Anza Padron (2011)
Afires Heir (2012, 2013, 2016, 2018, 2019 & 2021)
Baskghazi (2015)
Coltrane SS (2024)
IXL Noble Express (2017)
Prosuasion (2022)
SF Aftershoc (2020, 2023)
Trainers:
James Stachowski (2011, 2015, 2016 & 2019)
Joel Kiesner (2012, 2013, 2017, 2021, 2022 & 2024)
Shawn Rooker (2018)
Jessica Clinton (2020)
Rene Ramirez (2023)
*Payout amount includes $124,000 in Yearling In-Hand Futurity payouts from 2008-2014.
AEPA PUREBRED LEADING SIRES
by Number of Winners
1. Afires Heir .
2. Baske Afire, deceased . . .
3. Afire Bey V, deceased . . .
4. IXL Noble Express .
5. SF Aftershoc .
66
40
32
31
26
6. Black Daniels ............ 17
7. HA Toskcan Sun
8. SF Specs Shocwave . .
16
. 14
9. Vegaz 13
10. Inception 12 VJ Royal Heir .
12 by Payout
1. Afires Heir . . . . . . . . . $567,250
2. Baske Afire, deceased . . . . $329,250
3. IXL Noble Express . . . . . $258,500
4. SF Aftershoc $196,500
5. Afire Bey V, deceased $168,000
6. Black Daniels ........ $122,250
7. SF Specs Shocwave ...... $95,000
8. HA Toskcan Sun . . . . . . . $76,750
9. Vegaz $73,500
10. VJ Royal Heir
$71,750
AEPA LEADING BREEDERS
1. Afires Heir .
2. Baske Afire,
5. SF Aftershoc
Toskcan
VJ Royal Heir
by Number of Winners
1. Marty and Tim Shea
2. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.
3. Prestige Farms LLC
4. Conway Arabians, Inc.
25
24
17
14
5. Vicki Humphrey 12
6. Cedar Ridge Farm
11 Lindsay Rinehart 11
Smoky Mountain Park Arabians .
11 Strawberry Banks Farm ....... 11
7. Boisvert Farms LLC .
Karlton Jackson . .
10
10 by Payout
1. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc. . $218,250
2. Marty and Tim Shea .
3. Karlton Jackson .
$170,500
$109,000
4. Nick and Juliet Carden .... $101,500
5. Joel and Ashton Kiesner . . .$100,000
6. Vicki Humphrey $88,000 7. Cal Poly Pomona $84,000
Fire Arabians, Inc. .
and Tim Shea ....... 162 3. Prestige Farms LLC
Cal Poly Pomona
Conway Arabians, Inc.
AEPA LEADING TRAINERS
by Number of Winners
1. Joel Kiesner ............. 31
2. James Stachowski .......... 20
3. Gabe DeSoto ............ 16
4. Jessica Clinton
15 Shawn Rooker 15
5. Dalton Budd .
6. Jonathan Ramsay
Points Ch-10 pts., Res-8
1. Joel Kiesner ......... $483,750
2. James Stachowski ...... $273,875 3. Shawn Rooker .
12
11
7. Joel Gangi .............. 10 Peter Stachowski
10
8. John Golladay 9
by Number of Winners
1. Conway Arabians, Inc. .
2. Strawberry Banks Farm
3. Cedar Ridge Arabians
Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc. .
19
11
.9
.9
Smoky Mountain Park Arabians ...9
4. Boisvert Farms LLC
.8
Starline Arabians LLC ........8
5. Hagale Family Arabians LLC ....7
6. 6D Ranch Ltd. ............6 Joseph Kinnarney 6
$133,750 4. Jessica Clinton .
5. Gabe DeSoto
6. Peter Stachowski .
$126,250
$95,250
$87,500
7. John Golladay ......... $74,500
8. Dalton Budd
9. Brian Murch
$74,250
$70,000
10. Joel Gangi .......... $61,750
Joel Gangi..............
AEPA LEADING OWNERS
by Payout
1. Joseph Kinnarney $111,000
2. Strawberry Banks
Maroon Fire Arabians Dave & Gail Liniger, Marty & Tim Shea
Joel Kiesner
Conway Arabians, Inc. Peter & Lori Conway
Joseph Kinnarney
ARABIAN ENGLISH PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION
2023
AMES FOUNDATION
$100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
METALIKKA
(SF Aftershoc x BF First Love)
Ex/B: Rene Ramirez O: Kay Marschel & Rene Ramirez
2023
$22,000 STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM COUNTRY PLEASURE PRO AM
(ROL Divine Style x Heirs Noble Love)
Ex: Jennifer Hagale | B: Karlton Jackson O: Hagale Family Arabians LLC
2022
$20,000 CONWAY ARABIANS COUNTRY PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY
champions from the past
2023
$50,000 EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES HA SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
(Noble Braveheart x GSF Malinah)
Ex: Chris Wilson | B: 6D Ranch Ltd. O: Hagale Family Arabians LLC
2022
AMES FOUNDATION
2023
$20,000 CONWAY ARABIANS COUNTRY PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY
OH DANCING ON HEIR
(Afires Heir x DD My Dance)
Ex/O: Lindsay O’Reilly French B: 5 G and M Ltd. Partnership
2022
$100,000 ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
PROSUADED BY LOVE (Prosuasion x Heirs Noble Love) Ex: Joel Kiesner | B/O: Karlton Jackson
2022
$20,000 STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM COUNTRY PLEASURE MATURITY AAOTR
$50,000 EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES HA SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
2021
$100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
SD THE BRAVEST
OH HEIR BRUSHED
(Afires Heir x DD My Dance) Ex: Carrie Fritz | O: Shamrock Farms LLC B: Oak Haven South Arabians LLC
KT HEIR LORD (Afires Heir x SA Adriana) Ex: Joel Kiesner| O: Joseph Kinnarney B: Joel & Ashton Kiesner & Starline Arabians LLC
HS SHES A SHOCKER (SF Aftershoc x Hush Hush)
Ex/O: Rebecca Nash | B: Linda Pizzonia
LADDIE IN REDD
BALLERINA BF (GSF Rizing Son x Balanchine Star) Ex: Nora Shaffer | O: Laura Shaffer B: Boisvert Farms LLC
champions from the past ARABIAN ENGLISH PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION
2021
$50,000 EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES HA SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
TOOSKCANDALOUS RT
(HA Toskcan Sun x Topliney)
Ex/B: Rene Ramirez | O: Rainie Kuchynka
2020
$100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES
ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
2019
$100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES
ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
2021
$20,000 CONWAY ARABIANS COUNTRY PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY
OH DANCING ON HEIR
(Afires Heir x DD My Dance)
Ex/O: Lindsay O’Reilly French B: 5 G and M Ltd. Partnership
2020
$50,000 EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES HA SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
2019
$50,000 EQUINE ATHLETE VETERINARY SERVICES HA SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
2021
$20,000 STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM COUNTRY PLEASURE MATURITY AAOTR
ROL LET’S DANCE
(Afire Bey V x Singularcylection)
Ex: Katherine Kirby| O: Kirby Arabians LLC B: R O Lervick Arabians
2020
$20,000 CONWAY ARABIANS COUNTRY PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY
2019
$20,000 CONWAY ARABIANS COUNTRY PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY
Ex/O: Lindsay O’Reilly
B: 5 G & M LTD Partnership
KT MAHALO (Afires Heir x SA Gisele) Ex: James Stachowski | O: 6D Ranch Ltd. B: Joel and Ashton Kiesner
OH DANCING ON HEIR (Afires Heir x DD My Dance)
French
NUTTIN BUTA G THANG (Nutcracker’s Nirvana x Noble Halo) Ex: James Stachowsk | Victory pass: Ashley Roberts O: Gordon, Georgeen or Sarah Sneath | B: Hart Farms LLC
DROPS OF JUPITER VH (SF Aftershoc x ERA Madusa) Ex: Jessica Clinton | B/O: Vicki Humphrey
FS MAC XIMILION (VJ Royal Heir x Mac Nificence Afire) Ex: Leslie Doran Sommer | O: Shamrock Farms LLC B: Jeff Prem
THE HEIRISTOCRAT (Afires Heir x Ritida) Ex: Joel Kiesner | O: I Ask LLC B: Marty Shea
ARABIAN ENGLISH PERFORMANCE ASSOCIATION
2019
$20,000 STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM COUNTRY PLEASURE AAOTR MATURITY
NO KIDDING PF
(SF Specs Shocwave x HF Luck Bea Lady)
Ex/O: Laura Carrington | B: Prestige Farms LLC
2018
$50,000 EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES HA SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
NUTTIN BUT CHROME
(Undulata’s Nutcracker x SA Gisele)
Ex: Joel Kiesner | B/O: Starline Arabians LLC
2017
$50,000 EQUINE VETERINARY SERVICES HA SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
champions from the past
2018
$20,000 STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM COUNTRY PLEASURE MATURITY AOTR
CP MANIFESTO (H Mobility H x Afire Charmm)
Ex/O: Katherine Kirby | B: Cal Poly Pomona
2017
$20,000 STRAWBERRY BANKS FARM COUNTRY PLEASURE MATURITY AOTR
2016
$20,000 BUCKEYE AEPA COUNTRY PLEASURE MATURITY AOTR
2018
$100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
GSF INSIDER (Afires Heir x PWA Tusea)
Ex: Shawn Rooker | O: Kimberley Munro B: Nick and Juliet Carden
2017
$100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
INCEPTION
2016
$100,000 ARABIAN HORSE TIMES ARABIAN SADDLE SEAT FUTURITY
(Afire Bey V x Styling Time)
Ex: Joel Kiesner | O: Joseph Kinnarney B: Laura Gault
MOVIN ON HEIR WA
(Afires Heir x The Way She Moves) Ex: James Stachowski | O/B:Whispers Acres, Inc.
HOT HEIR PF
(Afires Heir x A Blessing) Ex: Matt Huke | O: Megan Huke B: Prestige Farms LLC
(IXL Noble Express x Bonita Afire) Ex: Joel Kiesner | O/B: Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc.
IRONN MAIDENN (Vegaz x Sweet Airianna D) Ex/O: Linda McArthur-Conish | B: Marty Shea
4. Kathie Williams-Baity 189 5. Lauren or Kelly Whyte .......... 166
6. Joyce Borchardt ................ 130
6. Maroon Fire Arabians, Inc. 40 Richard & Janet ompson 40 Lindsay Rinehart 40
7. Highland Pride Arabians, Inc. ..... 35 Cal Poly Pomona................ 35
7. Buckshot Farms 128
8. Carol Roberts 127
9. Dusty Morgan 126
10. Rainwater Insurance, Inc. ........ 122
HALTER TRAINER
TOP EXHIBITORS
HALTER AMATEUR
SADDLE SEAT TRAINER
TOP HORSES
HALTER HORSE
Owner/Breeder
Wade Hill/Cynthia Burkman
Sam Peacemaker/Duke & Renea Mendel
Jay or Maddy Winer/Walnut Ridge Arabians LLC
Brittney Porter
Ellyn Harris/Alejandro Vigil
Stephanie Ebnet/Mary Page
SADDLE SEAT HORSE
Sophie Yih/Robin Crisman
Franklin Farm/Kingswood Farms
Brooke Leininger/Cal Poly Pomona
Lindsay O’Reilly French
Lindsay O’Reilly French/5 G and M Ltd Partnership
Hagale Family Arabians/6D Ranch Ltd
WESTERN PL HORSE
Holly Connaker/Lawrence Jerome
Cole Reser/Setting Sun Stables LLC
Lisa Blackstone/Frank or Sara Chisholm
Shamrock Farms LLC/Sweetgrass Arabians LLC
Chelsey Perez/Lawrence Jerome
Debra or Leon Barber/Sweetgrass Arabians LLC
Ashley Reimer Carpio/Heather acker
HUNTER HORSE
Owner/Breeder
Katie or Joe Russell/Hennessey Wilson Partners
Arianna Bell or Norrie-Shan Fyfe/Scarab Farm, Inc.
Stacy or Bridget Smith/Jo Brenner
Donna Bialecki/Frank or Sara Chisholm
II B Farms/Tracy Wynne Caruth
North By Northwest/ North By Northwest
North By Northwest/Maegan Friesen
SPECIALTY HORSE
SDallas Nicole Joiner/Mark & Deborah Himmel
Lauren Adamek/Shawn Stachowski
Brooke Bellville or Barbara Beaudoin/Richard & Janet Thompson
Cathy or Sophie Yih/Trigger Arabians LLC
6D Ranch Ltd.
WORKING WESTERN HORSE
Ingrid Bentzen/Joyce Borchardt
Delaney or Roxanne Haight/Rainwater Insurance, Inc.
Cassandra Dawson/Lauren or Kelly Whyte
Kathie Williams Baity
Tracy Dowson/Gayle Pniak
Amy or Avery Reed/Richard Ames
U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
October 17-26, 2024 | Tulsa, Oklahoma
JUDGES
HALTER
Mike Beethe – Phoenix, AZ
Greg Gallun – Battle Ground, WA
Isaac Taylor – Provo, UT
U.S./CANADIAN & BREEDING PAYS FUTURITIES
Donnie Bullock – Fredericksburg, VA
Steve Dady – New Oxford, PA
Scott Brum eld – Greencastle, PA
PERFORMANCE
Bruce Bates – Wyandotte, OK
Scott Brum eld – Greencastle, PA
Lisa Corbin – Ashland, OH
Bob Gordon – St. Francis, MN
Terry Holmes – Scottsdale, AZ
John Lambert – Corona, CA
Bruce McCrea – Edmond, OK
Lindsay Rinehart – Hickory Corners, MI
Deb Witty – Ellensburg, WA
WORKING WESTERN
Ben Balow – Banner, WY
Kathy Callahan-Smith – Temecula, CA
Mark Guynn – Wickenburg, AZ
Tanya Jenkins – Newcastle, OK
Ann Judge – Bennet, CO
TRAIL/SHOWMANSHIP/EQUITATION
Terri Delbridge – Swartz Creek, MI
Laura Doran – Penryn, CA
Tim Goggins – Grand Rapids, MI
Tami Pacho-Douglas – Napa, CA
Lorne Robertson – Calgary, AB
THE 58TH ANNUAL NATIONALS
Making History
by ALLY EDWARDS
What an amazing week the U.S. National Championships had in Tulsa, Oklahoma this year. No rain, no ice-cold days, just pure sun and a packed schedule! Close to 1,800 horses traveled from all over the country to compete for a national title. With multiple classes having over 30 horses in them—calling for several elimination rounds—the quality and depth of horses at nationals never ceases to elevate, if that is even possible. It causes quite a thrill to look out into a full arena where each horse is a gorgeous ambassador for the Arabian breed.
All show rings were a urry of daily activity. Ford Truck Arena’s main performance ring hosted big sessions of western, hunter, country, and English pleasure, as well as specialty classes including show hack and mounted native costume.
Next door in the Mustang arena, chaps were everywhere for Arabians showcasing their working western skills, the fastest growing division o ering reining, cow horse, ranch horse, and horsemanship, as well as challenge classes. Across the grounds in the Pavilion, the rst half of the show showcased western and English trail classes before focusing on the breeding/in-hand halter horses where the most beautiful examples of the perfect Arabian competed to be the best.
No show has an atmosphere quite like U.S. Nationals. It’s the culmination of an entire year of blood, sweat and tears; everyone ready to show o what they’ve worked on in the hope it results in that one red rose blanket. But beyond that, knowing that the performances are as good as they can be and the horses return home happy and healthy, is always the end goal, intermixed with parties, camaraderie and the gathering of friends and family to celebrate the reason they are all present for before the holiday season begins and preparation for the next year’s show season ramps up.
And this nationals had no shortage of memorable moments all week long. We saw the retirement of the English pleasure phenom Heirs Noble Love as she took one last unanimous champion victory lap around the arena with owner Emily Shippee. e duo cinched the mare’s 12th national title before Emily dismounted in the ring and the legendary HNL was led out by longtime trainer, Joel Kiesner.
Others continued their reign as well. For the fourth year in a row, Colby Powell won the Half-Arabian Western Pleasure Open, this year with Fixations Khash. Nutcracker Sweet and Juliette Dell won the HalfArabian Park Horse AAOTR for the sixth time in the last seven years, and full siblings Songwriter CA and Rubi Slippers (Coltrane SS x ROL Fire Mist) who last year won champion and reserve in the Arabian English Futurity respectively, returned to the winners circle this time the top two in the $100,000 Arabian English Pleasure Association Arabian Saddle Seat Futurity.
Chelsey Perez underwent grueling treatment for breast cancer all year and U.S. Nationals was her return to
the show ring with her Half-Arabian western pleasure horse Bluer an Blue J. She went from 2023 national reserve champion to 2024 National Champion in the H/A Western AAOTR 19-39, as well as winning a reserve in the H/A Western Jackpot. It was an amazing return to the show ring!
Over in the halter ring, history was made when Lulu Marajj became the rst mare ever to win all four U.S. National titles an Arabian mare could win. Following her U.S. National Yearling Filly (2017), Futurity Filly (2019) and Junior Mare (2021) championship wins, the nal gem was placed in her crown under the guidance of Andrew Sellman, with her unanimous win in Senior Mares. Sire-wise, the legendary Dominic M truly dominated the breeding ring with 16 winners, amongst them the gold, silver and bronze Breeding Pays Futurity Filly champions: Bella Z with Joao Carlos Sousa, Felix Ajmal Malak with Rodolfo Guzzo, and Ola Dominica LB with Ted Carson.
It seems that for every year the working western classes get bigger, so do the scores! Both winners of the Arabian and Half-Arabian Ranch Horse Riding Open classes won with scores of 231, while Trevor GerardiMiller rode Zees Golden West and Zee Triple Zee to champion and reserve Arabian Reining Jackpot titles.
So many memories were made over the nine days of competition, ful lling the Arabian Horse Association’s new slogan for the show: ‘Dream. Achieve. Remember.’ Everyone enters the arena with a dream, and whether it’s roses or a good ride without a ribbon, hopefully some goals were achieved – earning a place at U.S. Nationals being one of them! Ultimately, at the heart of it, competing at these shows with our amazing horses is supposed to be fun, adding to our memories with our four- and two-legged friends. All year has led to this one last week when the whole community converges on one spot to enjoy and witness every special ride. And whether you’re showing or spectating, when the lights drop and the spotlight shines o the rose blanket of the winners, it’s impossible to not get chills at the sheer beauty that is the Arabian horse.
HA/AA Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure AATR 19-54 ZEE LIL PEPPET
(Hesa Zee x Smart Lil Peppet)
Ex/O: Madison Rose
AWWA Arabian Ranch Horse Challenge TSAMURAI MAC
(Maclintock V x Rohara Ronatta) Ex: Tamera Burkman | O: Melanie & Mike Weaver
AWWA HA/AA Ranch Horse Challenge M GETTIN ER DUN (SVS Fornaio x Otoes Gold In Motion) Ex/O: Mignon Stetman
Cedar
Experience
Southern
Kiesner Training
Summerhill Farms
ARABIAN PROFESSIONAL & AMATEUR HORSEMAN’S ASSOCIATION
TRAINER
CHALLENGE CUP
This year marks the sixth Arabian Professional & Amateur Horseman’s Association (APAHA) Trainer Challenge Cup.
The APAHA Trainer Challenge Cup is awarded each year to the winning trainer in each of 13 futurity classes at the U.S. National Arabian & Half-Arabian Championship Horse Show in Tulsa, Okla. This award is given annually as a recognition of the talent and dedication required to successfully introduce young prospects into the performance, halter and working western disciplines.
When a trainer wins the APAHA Trainer Challenge Cup three times, the Cup is permanently retired to that trainer’s barn and the trainer receives a check from APAHA for $500. Brett Becker was the first to win this honor with his third Futurity win in Half-Arabian Western Pleasure in 2021. Joel Kiesner won it for a third time last year in the Arabian English Pleasure. And this year, three trophies retired with their winners: Andrew Sellman in the Arabian Colts as well as the Arabian Fillies; and Jim Hitt won it for a third time this year in Trail.All in, $1,500 was paid out by APAHA to this year’s winners.
According to Cathy Vecsey, APAHA President, “There is nothing more vital to the future success of our breed than our young horses who showcase breeder excellence and just as importantly, the trainers who prepare and present them with excellence. APAHA is honored to recognize these trainers with the APAHA Challenge
Cup program.”
Each Trainer Challenge Cup has been made possible by generous sponsors who committed initially to the program for a minimum of three years, and most are now in their sixth year of support. According to Katie Harvey, APAHA Board member, “When we first gauged sponsor interest, it was quickly noted that this type of program was something people were interested in. They recognize the value of supporting trainers and their talents.”
“From a trainer’s perspective,” shares Jim Stachowski, winner of the 2019 and 2022 U.S. National Half-Arabian English Pleasure Futurity, “it is a nice nod of recognition for bringing these young horses along and winning a class that is awarded based on the future of our breed.”
The Trainer Challenge Cup is one of many programs that APAHA supports. APAHA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting a fair and level playing field in the horse show arena, the kind and ethical treatment of horses and people, and the promotion of excellence in all things related to the Arabian horse. For more information, visit www.apaha.com
2024 APAHA CHALLENGE CUP WINNERS
Recognizing trainers who successfully introduce young talent into the Arabian breed. Awarded to the winning trainer from each 3-Year-Old Futurity class (In-Hand & Performance).
Thank you to our sponsors who’ve committed to supporting the Challenge Cup.
3-time winner and recipient of $500 and the Challenge Cup Trophy: BRETT BECKER (H/A WESTERN) | JOEL KIESNER (ARABIAN ENGLISH)
ANDREW SELLMAN (COLTS) | ANDREW SELLMAN (FILLIES)
JIM HITT (TRAIL)
ARABIAN FILLIES
ANDREW SELLMAN
Sponsored by AHT
ARABIAN COLTS
ANDREW SELLMAN
Sponsored by Buck Ranch
ARABIAN ENGLISH
JAMES LOWE
Sponsored by Equine Athlete
HA/AA ENGLISH
VICTOR BOTHA
Sponsored by Conway Arabians
ARABIAN COUNTRY ENGLISH
JONATHAN RAMSAY
Sponsored by Prestige Farms
HA/AA COUNTRY ENGLISH
SHARON BLENDINGER
Sponsored by DeRegnaucourt Ltd.
ARABIAN WESTERN
JOSH QUINTUS*
Sponsored by Shamrock Farms
HA/AA WESTERN JOE RESER*
Sponsored by Equine Athlete
ARABIAN HUNTER ISABELLA HEATH
Sponsored by Equine Athlete
HA/AA HUNTER ISABELLA HEATH
Sponsored by Stachowski Farm
ARABIAN REINING JESSE CHASE*
Sponsored by KGBTexas Communications
HA/AA REINING COLBY POWELL*
Sponsored by Long Meadow Arabians
TRAIL
JIM HITT
Sponsored by Vallejo III
*2-time winner
2024 U.S. NATIONALS JUDGES’ REVIEW
“It was an absolute privilege to witness so many superior horses competing at such an elite level.”
—Lindsay Rinehart
2024 U.S. NATIONALS JUDGES’ REVIEW
RESPONDENTS:
Bruce McCrae (English) | Lindsay Rinehart (Hunter) | Deb Witty (Western) | Terri Delbridge (Trail/Showmanship/Equitation)
Is there a performance or presentation that comes to mind that stood out to you?
MCCRAE: I’ll give you my two favorite performances. SA Chantal with Victor Botha in the Half-Arabian English Pleasure Futurity – just a phenomenal horse expertly shown! And Starrboy with Katie Burr in the Half-Arabian English Pleasure AAOTR 19-49 – she just crushed it in the finals. A great horse beautifully shown!
RINEHART: The Hunter division has evolved into a dynamic category. The presentations and performances were exceptional, and the depth of competition in each class was remarkable. There were so many standout performances that it is impossible to single out just one.
WITTY: I was impressed with the presentation of the performance halter horses this year. Everyone was respectful, did not over show their horses and the top horses were outstanding.
DELBRIDGE: My favorite presentation was JT Keller on Invictus A in the $100,000 AWPA Western Please Futurity … WOW! And coming from someone with a predominantly English background, that is saying something!
In the division you judged, what class, from top to bottom, were you blown away by the quality?
MCCRAE: We had lots of great classes in our division! Most of the junior and futurity classes were really strong. Our amateur classes were outstanding in English Pleasure and Country Pleasure. The Half-Arabian English Pleasure AAOTR 19-49 final was probably the best class overall.
RINEHART: The overall quality of the Hunter division was outstanding! Specifically, the purebred and Half-Arabian Junior Horse classes were particularly impressive. The caliber of horses, from top to bottom, was amazing and the future looks bright.
WITTY: The AWPA Western Pleasure Futurity classes come to the top of my mind.
DELBRIDGE: The best class, top to bottom that I judged, was the Arabian Open Trail – beautiful, well performing horses!
Is there something that you see in the breed that is moving in a positive direction, or we continue to do right, based on what you judged at U.S. Nationals?
MCCRAE: I was very pleased with the Country English horses overall. For the most part, they were shown in a quieter manner and not overridden, like in the past.
RINEHART: Based on my observations, we are successfully developing a clear vision for the standards of each discipline, which is reflected in both the quality of the horses and the presentations in the arena. Additionally, breeders, continue your outstanding work; the horses being produced are exceptional!
WITTY: I would say it has to be the quality of movement in the Western pleasure horses in general. They are more forward, more natural and being shown well.
DELBRIDGE: I feel that our Hunters are much more ground covering with less motion. They are looking like Hunters now. However, the division I saw the most improvement in was the Western. They were free, fluid and happy. It was refreshing to watch them.
What is it like for you to be selected to stand in the center of the arena and represent our breed at such an important show?
MCCRAE: Its always an honor to judge U.S. Nationals! This year again, it was a wonderful, well managed show! Hats off to the show commission, all officials and the many volunteers that put on this great event!
RINEHART: One word – INCREDIBLE! To be chosen was truly an honor, a dream come true, and it was an absolute privilege to witness so many superior horses competing at such an elite level.
WITTY: It is always an honor; I look forward to the opportunity for many years to come.
DELBRIDGE: It is a huge honor to judge any division on a National level, however, I would love a chance to judge Main Ring!
MINNESOTA ARABIAN HORSE BREEDERS 43 rd ANNUAL
September 27-29, 2024 | St. Paul, Minnesota
Photos by Genie
Judges: Joe Alberti | Jeremy Harper | Pam Zimmerman
United in Marriage
Courtney Boggs & Dillen Friend
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Boggs Family home | Elk River, MN
Scan for a sneak peak of the special day.
AWWA U.S. NATIONALS
ra Pa
The AWWA Draw Party is a unique opportunity to gather for camaraderie and friendship while fulfilling the requirement of creating an order-ofgo for the AWWA Evergreen Arabians Ranch Horse Challenge class. All working western classes that have individual pattern work need an order-of-go, but the AWWA wants to do it in a festive way to provide spectators, exhibitors, and anyone interested in Working Western a chance to mingle and chat.
Last year, the Draw Party was held in Mustang Arena during mid-week, but this year we partnered with AHA to expand the gathering to include an Exhibitor’s Welcome Party before the show started. In keeping with the theme of the Ranch Challenge course, each exhibitor had to ring a cow bell before picking a toy pony which had the exhibitor’s orderof-go number on the bottom of its hoof. Thank you, Susan Lallo, for providing all the painted ponies!
There were door prize donations from Custom Collars, Arabian Horse Times, Schneider’s, The Hat Lady, Bedazzled by Dixie, and Mackey USA, and Bennett Fine Jewelry served extra special cupcakes for dessert. The AWWA wants to especially thank Harold Green of Evergreen Arabians for sponsoring the AWWA Draw Party. n
THANKSGIVING IN THE BARN
Ghost Pines Farm
Thankful …
Every November, husband and wife team Andy and Nicole Reed of Ghost Pines Farm in New Kensington, PA, along with their children Jackson and Rowan, host a party for all their friends and family to celebrate the end of another successful show season and to be present around what they cherish very much, their horses. It has come to be called Thanksgiving In The Barn, and is most literally, in the barn.
Weather has always tended to be a factor regarding participation in past years, as most of their clients live out-of-state, but this November 17th saw less snow and ice and more amazingly and unseasonably warm temperatures, allowing almost everyone to make the trek. They come from all over to eat dinner in a barn aisle—vets, farriers, clients, friends, family and many trainers, take time out of their crazy schedules to eat, drink and be merry.
Guests bring their favorite side dish or dessert for the potluck-style feast as well, and with this year’s 80 people RSVP-ing YES, they had a lot of food! Among the many delicious dishes served with turkey and ham were lasagna, baked ziti, cranberry relish, harvest salad, lobster soup, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, apple pies, pumpkin pies, cider donuts, candy apples, a million different types of cookies, and rolls, rolls, rolls!
A favorite moment was the ability to spread some holiday cheer this year through the North Carolina based non-profit organization, A Pony For Christmas. Everyone attending was able to connect to their website right from their seats and donate a plush pony to children in hospitals during the holiday season.
Ghost Pines Farm is home to many and the Reeds are so thankful that they can share their special place with so many, two legged and four. n
Photos by Barbara Gardner
WA Fresh Start
By BROOK MATTHIESEN
hen Johnny and his mom, Raayna, were seized by the Animal Humane Society in 2013 due to neglect, they were thin, and Johnny was still nursing even though he was a 3-year-old stud colt.
“It was heartbreaking and heartwarming to see how she had nurtured and sustained him at her own peril. He was thin, but she was starving,” says Nancy Turner, co-founder and president of is Old Horse, a sanctuary for retired, rescued, and recovering horses.
e organization took them in and provided basic vet, farrier, dental and deworming care, and gelded Johnny. “Within 90 days, they both were at baseline weights and body condition scores,” says Turner.
Seeing potential in them both, Turner approached the Minnesota Hooved Animal Rescue Foundation about having them compete in its annual Trainer’s Challenge.
“Training for adoptable horses is absolutely necessary to nd them homes and to make sure both the horse and the adopter have a positive experience,” shares Drew Fitzpatrick, MHARF executive director.
“That was a memorable day to me, for it made great changes in me. But it is the same with any life. Imagine one selected day struck out of it, and think how different its course would have been.
Pause you who read this, and think for a moment of the long chant of iron or gold, of thorns or flowers, that would never have bound you, but for the formation of the first link on one memorable day.”
—Charles Dickens, Great Expectations
A New Name: Gentleman Johnny
Until the pandemic, the MHARF Trainer’s Challenge of the unwanted horse was a popular event for 15 years—attracting horse trainers and horse enthusiasts across Minnesota. “It matches a halter-broke rescue horse with a trainer,” Fitzpatrick continues, “who would work with the horse for 100 days and then compete in ve classes while being o ered to new homes through a silent auction at the conclusion.”
“I named him ‘Gentleman Johnny’ because he just did everything you asked of him,” says horse trainer Dustin (Dusty) Freiheit. “You showed him something and he just did it and was always happy to go do a job. He was the type of horse that as a 3-year-old, I could use him in my lesson program for beginner riders.”
at spring, a few of Dusty’s youth riders even developed a bracelet-making fundraiser for Johnny at the Sahara Sands Arabian horse show in St. Paul. e girls donated their $300 proceeds to is Old Horse for care expenses. “We were shocked and incredibly grateful,” says Turner.
At left and above, Carla Brunsvold assists Morgan Arendt and Johnny, now a 14-year-old grade Half-Arabian rescue horse, through an Adaptive Riding class
In September at the Trainer’s Challenge show, Dusty and Johnny took rst place in the pleasure class. During the freestyle event, Dusty invited an 8-year-old girl to ride him, showcasing how quiet
an Arabian can be. And the best part, both Johnny and Raayna found new homes at the event.
A New Home
“We intended for Johnny to become my husband’s trail riding horse,” new owner Carla Brunsvold says, “but my daughter commandeered him to be her pleasure horse and showed him in 4-H and open shows rst.”
en nearly a decade later, Brunsvold was looking for a new career for Johnny and found it when the Minnesota Western Saddle Club Association (WSCA) began o ering Adaptive Riding classes as part of its state Championship Show.
“After hearing more about this new addition to the show schedule,” says Brunsvold, “I immediately made it a goal to match Johnny with a new rider and bring them there in 2024.”
A New Job
It was with her long-time friend about the potential for her 20-year-old disabled daughter to ride and show Johnny that Brunsvold chatted with. “Morgan has Down Syndrome and a few other health conditions,” Vicki Arendt, Morgan’s mother says. “She loves animals but didn’t really have an activity she was engaged in.”
at a local open show.
Morgan began riding Johnny for about 30 minutes each ride twice per week. To begin with, they used a mounting platform that put Morgan at Johnny’s level, so she could just sit down to get on.
But after a few lessons, Morgan seemed unsure of what was being asked of her, so the pair took her to a horse show to watch what happens there.
“Having never been to a horse show or really around horses,” says Arendt, “she needed to see what she was supposed to do. Once she saw all the kids showing, she said, ‘I can do that.’”
Since then, Morgan began exercising, increased her riding time to an hour or more, and is now able to mount and dismount Johnny by herself with a mounting block. And she navigates Johnny around poles, barrels and keyhole patterns with Brunsvold walking nearby. In fact, the team competed in Assisted Adaptive Riding classes at four shows this year, including at the WSCA Championship Show.
In addition to her mobility improving since starting to ride, so have Morgan’s social skills and con dence.
“When she gets to be the center of attention and in front of the crowd, she just lights up like a spotlight,” says Brunsvold. “ e more people who are watching, the more she likes to perform.”
“She has red hair and an attitude to go with it,” Arendt jokes.
Members of the Minnesota Arabian Horse Association Board of Directors present Johnny and his team with a warm welcome to the Arabian horse family.
at will come in handy for the big goals they’re discussing, including moving up to the Unassisted Adaptive Riding classes in 2025 and potentially competing at the 2026 United States Special Olympics, which will conveniently be held in Minnesota.
A Growing Fan Club
“It’s been a huge evolution from where we started earlier this year,” Brunsvold says. “Progression goes in spurts and it’s not all straightforward and easy, but she loves Johnny, and he takes such good care of her.”
When this writer shared with her colleagues on the Minnesota Arabian Horse Association (MAHA) Board of Directors about Johnny and Morgan’s partnership, it began exploring ways the club could be more inclusive and help support these growing classes.
As a start, MAHA created a Morgan and Johnny cheering section at the WSCA Championship Show, which is the largest all-breed show in the country, and presented the team with a welcome basket that included free memberships to MAHA and the Arabian Horse Association for Morgan, carrots for Johnny, a gift card for gas toward hauling expenses and more.
“Watching them compete was a reminder of the sheer joy of riding and why I’m involved with this breed,” Christy Caspers, MAHA president says. “We are more than just a showing organization. We can and should do more to open our association for everyone—not just those who aim for the blanket of roses.”
MAHA is exploring options for an o cial Adaptive Riding program, which could include o ering these classes at its shows and is working to help get Johnny registered with the Half-Arabian Horse Registry. In the meantime, the club has created a hashtag, #RidewithMorgan, for fans to continue following their journey. n
Bonnie Jean Matthias, 79, of rural Readlyn, passed away on Monday, October 28, at the Denver Sunset Home.
Bonnie was born on February 28, 1945, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Wilber and Florene (Fasse) Warneke. She graduated from Waverly-Shell Rock High School in 1963 and received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1970. She was united in marriage to Leon Matthias on June 28, 1964, but later divorced.
Bonnie taught business at Hawkeye Community College from 1970-2002 and then taught as an adjunct instructor until her retirement in 2011. She was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church of Klinger.
Bonnie loved working with her Arabian horses and in 2007 received the Arabian Presidents Award for outstanding service to the Iowa Arabian Horses Association. She also enjoyed many Caribbean cruises she took with family and friends.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, and brother-in-law, Ken Freeman. She is survived by son, Lon (Kim) Matthias; two grandchildren, Landon Matthias and Eva Matthias; sister, Julie Freeman; nephew, Mike (Deb) Freeman; and great nephews, John (Sally) Freeman and Matt Freeman.
Robert Alan Knoop Jr. (1957-2024)
Bob Knoop of Linden, MI, passed away on November 2nd, at Corewell Hospital in Dearborn, MI.
Born July 4th, 1957, to Robert and Joyce (Woolsey) Knoop in Dearborn, Bob was a graduate of Dearborn High School, Jackson Community College and Northwood University. After graduation, he obtained his realtors license and began selling properties along with guiding hunting and fishing expeditions around the world through his co-ownership in In Season Adventures. He coached baseball for several high schools including St. Hedwig, whom he coached to a Catholic League Championship and coached Jackson Community College to a state title. He also was a Major League Scout for the Kansas City Royals.
Bob married the love of his life, Ann ImOberstag, on January 15, 1983. Together, they had two children: Chelsea and RJ. Bob immensely enjoyed traveling this country watching his two kids play baseball, hockey, dance, and show horses. After semi-retirement, Bob’s true calling, philanthropy, took center stage. He was a founding member of the PATH foundation, aimed at bringing those less fortunate out into the wilderness and learning the beauty of conservation. He also helped found the Megan’s Dreams foundation which gave scholarships to Michigan State University veterinarian students, in memory of his high school classmate.
Bob spent as much time as possible in the outdoors, hunting, fishing and teaching the younger generations to do the same. If he wasn’t outside, you would find him playing card games, mainly cribbage, with his family or others.
He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Alan Knoop, and his in-laws, Irving and Frances ImOberstag. He is survived by his mother, Joyce Knoop; wife Ann; daughter Chelsea Knoop Harper (Jeremy), son Robert Knoop (Savannah); grandchildren, Payne, Chloe and Quinn Harper, and Hattie Knoop; sister Nance Clark, along with a long list of extended family.
Deborah Kay Fuentes (1961-2024)
Debbie Fuentes, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, niece, friend, aunt, and wife, passed away in the arms of her family on November 16, in Aurora, Colorado. Born on September 22, 1961, in Grand Forks, North Dakota to parents Robert and Carolene (Larson) Wass, Debbie earned a B.S. in Business Management at Colorado State University, leading her to a career as Sr. Director of Customer Service and Registrar at Arabian Horse Association since 1984, and whose countless hours at AHA landed her and the organization on the map. Rather than simply attending the numerous events and meetings held by AHA, Debbie created friends rather than colleagues. Armed with her camera, smile, charm, and conversation, Debbie moved mountains through words and kindness alone. She was an icon whose reputation well preceded her.
Debbie’s three children were the most important people in her life, and she did everything in her power to ensure their happiness and care. But she was more than just a mother to her children. She was a shoulder that everyone could rest their head upon knowing full well they were in her tender care. Any trials or tribulations that someone faced, Debbie was always there to listen and help, always putting herself second to ensure the happiness of those who needed it. There was no such thing as a stranger to Debbie and no better person to have in one’s corner.
Debbie represented the pinnacle of selflessness, a Saint in both patience and love to all of those lucky enough to know her. She was an ideal: someone whose care could only be dreamt of.
Debbie was preceded in death by her brother, Daniel Wass and her father, Robert Wass. She is survived by her three adoring children, Ryan Blaine Fuentes, Shannon Lee Cano and Alexis Christine Fuentes; beloved grandchild, Dallas Weston Lee Cano; all of Denver, CO; husband, Jorge Fuentes; siblings, Jimmy Wass and Rodney Wass; mother, Carolene Wass; as well as countless other loving family members.
Bonnie Matthias (1945-2024)
IN MEMORIAM
Carol Steppe
It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the loss of our mother, sister, Nonnie, and friend, Carolyn Jean Briggs Steppe, after a 5-year battle with Glioblastoma Brain Cancer. She was a true warrior, living many years beyond her original diagnosis.
During those 5 years, we shared countless memories of love, laughter and faith with our sweet Nonnie. She never once lost her zeal for life - even in her final days. She held a deep faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and we are so comforted in knowing that she is in Heaven, dancing in the streets and reunited with family and friends.
If you knew her well, she taught you at least one thing that probably still to this day sticks with you. She had a way of bringing you into her ‘circle’ and caring for your heart within mere minutes of meeting. She wasn’t someone that just touched lives, she was one who impacted lives for eternity. We are so grateful for every single minute that she loved us, that she cheered us on, that she encouraged us to live our dreams, that she reminded us of our Creator and that she taught us how to live with great faith amidst the hardest of circumstances.
We will remember her every time we see an Arabian horse, watch football (especially The Chiefs and Mahomes), travel to Hawaii, see a Bird of Paradise, and see the Christian fish symbol, which she wore on a bracelet on her wrist without fail.
She is now fully healed and with her Father in Heaven and no doubt surrounded by as many horses as possible, her first and most lasting true love. We know she is smiling down on us all.
Nonnie is survived by her husband John, children Lisa and Peter (Reagan); 7 +1 grandchildren: Kendall and Reid Lindemann, Grisha and Abby Shields, and Spencer, Rhett, Lila Rose and Hank Steppe; sister, Mary Lynn Sedgwick and brother, Bill Briggs. ~Lisa Shields
SM Miss Finesse (2014-2024)
“SM Miss Finesse (Faraa Al Shaqab x SM Finesse, by ZT Magnanimus) was bred by and born in the beautiful pastures of Haras Maalesh in a small city not far from Buenos Aries, Argentina. I remember visiting the farm with Fernando de Satibanes and George and Debbie Milne, and was taken by her beauty and athleticism as a young filly.
“After her successful show ring beginning in Argentina, she was imported to the USA and quickly joined the show string at Midwest. The results were stellar from the start, earning the Gold Champion Mare title at the National Arabian Breeders Finals and capturing the United States National Champion and Reserve titles in Junior and Senior Mares respectively.
“She left us three beautiful daughters that reside at Midwest, two sired by Magic Magnifique and one sired by *Sharif Alzobair.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to her breeders, George Milne and Debbie Stuart Milne, and all the fine people of Haras Maalesh.” ~David Boggs
Atticus ENB (2015-2024)
The beautiful Atticus ENB was through just his first few chapters in the Arabian history books before his untimely passing at 9 years of age.
Bred by Mike Weinstein’s Psynergy Enterprise Developments LLC from the pairing of El Nabila B out of Om El Benedine, by Sanadik El Shaklan, the masculine grey stud won numerous Supreme Stallion honors at the Scottsdale, Breeders World Cup and National shows under the tutelage of Sandro Pinha before entering the breeding shed to sire 36 registered foals in just four short years.
His mark on the breed is just beginning with the exquisite National Champion Filly Alesia ENB leading the way.
January/February
AWPA & AHPA FUTURITIES
BREEDERS
DAMS OF EXCELLENCE
EQUITATION
INDUSTRY LEADERS
SCOTTSDALE PREVIEW
Issue distributed at the 2025 scottsdale show
CALENDAR of Events
REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
April 24-27, 2025
Region 7 Championships Scottsdale, Arizona www.aha7.org
May 6-11, 2025
Region 12 Championships Ocala, Florida www.aharegion12.com
May 9-11, 2025
Region 8 Championships Albuquerque, New Mexico www.aharegion8.org
May 25-June 2, 2025
Region 4 Championships Redmond, Oregon www.aharegion4.com
May 27-31, 2025
Region 9 Championships Fort Worth, Texas www.region9aha.org
May 29-June 1, 2025
Region 1 Championships Del Mar, California www.aharegionone.com
May 29-June 1, 2025
Region 11 Championships Springfield, Illinois www.aha11.com
June 12-14, 2025
Region 6 Championships Douglas, Wyoming www.region6aha.com
June 18-22, 2025
Region 13 Championships Wilmington, Ohio www.aharegion13.com
June 19-21, 2025
Region 2 Championships Santa Barbara, California www.ahareg2.org
June 25-28, 2025
Region 5 Championships Monroe, Washington www.regionv.com
June 25-29, 2025
Region 10 Championships Madison, Wisconsin www.region10arabians.com
July 1-5, 2025
Region 15 & 16 Championships Lexington, Virginia www.region15and16championship.com
July 8-12, 2025
Region 17 Championships Red Deer, Alberta Canada www.region17.com
July 15-19, 2025
Region 18 Championship Ancaster, Ontario Canada www.region18.on.ca
SHOWS
February 13-23, 2025, Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, Scottsdale, Arizona. www.scottsdaleshow.com
May 15-18, 2025, Ohio Buckeye Sweepstakes, Wilmington, Ohio. www.buckeyesweepstakes.com
August 1-3, 2025, East Coast Championships, Lexington, Virginia. www.eastcoastshow.com
September 10-13, 2025, Arabian National Breeder Finals, Scottsdale, Arizona. www.scottsdaleshow.com
September 11-13, 2025, NSH Finals, Springfield, Illinois. www.nshregistry.org
September 26-28, 2025, Minnesota Fall Festival, Winona, Minnesota. www.medallionstallion.com
August 14-17, 2025
Region 14 Championships Wilmington, Ohio www.aha14.com
August 24-30, 2025
Region 3 Championships Reno, Nevada www.arabianhorses3.org
November 27-30, 2025, AHAF Holiday Festival Show, Ocala, Florida. arabianhorsepromotionalfund.com/keystone-experience
NATIONAL EVENTS
Global Champions Arabians Tour
Americas Edition:
February 18-20, 2025, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA
April (TBA), Miami Beach, Florida, USA
July 9-10, 2025, São Paulo, Brazil
August 8-9, 2025, Brandon, Manitoba, Canada
September 27-29, 2025, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA (Final)
July 18-26, 2025
Youth & Mid Summer Nationals Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
August 7-16, 2025
Canada’s National Championship Brandon, Manitoba Canada
September 8-13, 2025 Sport Horse Nationals Wilmington, Ohio
October 16-25, 2025 U.S. Nationals Tulsa, Oklahoma
*Go to www.arabianessence.com or www.ecaho.org for additional international shows and information. Visit www.ahtimes.com for a calendar view of these dates, locations and more.
Calendar listings are subject to change; please confirm dates and locale before making your plans or reservations. E-mail show dates to: charlened@ahtimes.com.
*Due to the intrinsic nature of these shows, Arabian Horse Times cannot be held accountable for their validity.
Friends Of Vail......................................................................................130, 131
Frierson Atkinson 370
H
Hagale Family Arabians LLC FC, 13-17AEPA (223-227)
Hennessey Arabian LLC 28AEPA (238)
High Country Training................................................................................. 185 Hollywood Toi Foundation 132, 133 J Jupp, Beth.....................................................................................................
Key, Corry................................................................................... 12AEPA (222) Kiesner Training 34-45, 209, 30-35AEPA (240-245 L
LA Stables @ Cedar Ridge Arabians.................................52AEPA (262), 263 Leatherwood Stud 27AEPA (237)
Lowe Show Horse Centre............................................................................ 264 M
Maroon
Arabians, Inc.
Quarry Hill Farm....................................................................... 29AEPA (239) R
Rae-Dawn Arabians 182, 183 Royal Arabians ..................................................................................................5
Select Show Horses...................................................................... 4AEPA (214) Slide To Win..................................................................................................125
Stachowski Farms, Inc...................................... 2, 3, 61, 62, 1-3Stach. (63-65), 22-60Stach. (84-122), 123, 124, 20-21AEPA (230, 231) Strawberry Banks Farm 22-25AEPA (232-235) T The Hat Lady................................................................................................
