1883: Dennis Quaid Joins
Yellowstone Bass Reeves Spinoff Series
Dennis Quaid is joining the cast of the 1883 spin-off 1883: The Bass Reeves Story. The upcoming Paramount+ limited series from Taylor Sheridan will focus on legendary lawman Bass Reeves and star David Oyelowo in the title role.
Variety reports that Quaid will play “Sherrill Lynn, a Deputy U.S. Marshall.” No other details about the character were revealed. The series is currently filming in Texas. Known primarily for his film work, Quaid has played very few roles on television.
The following was revealed about the plot of the Paramount+ series:
“Reeves was known as the greatest frontier hero in American history and also believed to be the inspiration for ‘The Lone Ranger.’ He worked in the post-Reconstruction era as a federal peace officer in the Indian Territory, capturing over 3,000 of the most dangerous criminals without ever being wounded.”
Additional details and members of the cast will be announced at a later date.
A prequel to Sheridan’s Yellowstone series, the 1883 TV show ran for one season of 10 episodes and concluded a year ago. It stars Sam Elliott, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Isabel May, LaMonica Garrett, Marc Rissmann, Audie Rick, Eric Nelsen, and James Landry Hébert. The story follows an earlier generation of the Dutton family seen in Yellowstone.
Land Man: Billy Bob Thornton to Star in New
Paramount+ Series from Taylor Sheridan
Land Man has found its leading man. Billy Bob Thornton has been cast in the new Paramount+ series from Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone). The drama series is based on the 11-part Boomtown podcast and production will begin next year.
Paramount+ today announced that Academy Award(R) winner Billy Bob Thornton has been tapped to lead the upcoming drama series LAND MAN. From executive producer and Academy Award(R) nominee Taylor Sheridan, the series will feature Thornton as a crisis manager for an oil company. Produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios, LAND MAN will begin production in 2023.
Based on the notable 11-part podcast “Boomtown,” LAND MAN is set in the proverbial boomtowns of West-Texas and is a modernday tale of fortune-seeking in the world of oil rigs. The series is an upstairs/downstairs story of roughnecks and wildcat billionaires that are fueling a boom so big it’s reshaping our climate, our economy and our geopolitics.
“We are in the privileged position to be able to work with people that we truly admire,” said David C. Glasser, CEO of 101 Studios. “With LAND MAN, Taylor developed it with Billy Bob in mind, and we were thrilled when he came on board. He is not only one of the
Nicole
Kidman
& Morgan Freeman to Star in Paramount+ Series with Zoe Saldaña and Laysla De Oliveira
Lioness has added another big name to the cast of the new Paramount+ series. Nicole Kidman is joining the latest drama series from Taylor Sheridan (Yellowstone) that will also star Zoe Saldaña and Laysla De Oliveira.
The story will revolve around a unique CIA program that seeks to bring down terrorist organizations from within. Paramount+ revealed more about the new series in a press release.
Paramount+ today announced that Academy Award® winner Nicole Kidmanis set to star in the upcoming original series LIONESS alongside series leads Zoe Saldaña and Laysla De Oliveira. As previously announced, Kidman will also serve as an executive producer under her production company, Blossom Films. From Academy Award nominee Taylor Sheridan, LIONESS is produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios exclusively for Paramount+.
LIONESS is based on a real-life CIA program and follows Cruz Manuelos (De Oliveira), a rough-around-the-edges but passionate young Marine recruited to join the CIA’s Lioness Engagement Team to help bring down a terrorist organization from within. Saldaña will play Joe, the station chief of the Lioness program tasked with training, managing and leading her female undercover operatives.
Kidman will play Kaitlyn Meade, the CIA’s senior supervisor who has had a long career of playing the politics game. She must juggle the trappings of being a woman in the high-ranking intelligence community, a wife who longs for the attention she herself can’t even give and a mentor to someone veering suspiciously close to the same rocky road she’s found herself on.
Academy Award, Golden Globe®, SAG Award® and Emmy Award® winner Nicole Kidman is best known for her critically acclaimed film work, including “The Hours,” which garnered her an Oscar, Golden Globe and BAFTA Award for her portrayal of Virginia Woolf. She also received Academy Award nominations for her work in “Being the Ricardos,” “Moulin Rouge!,” “Rabbit Hole” and “Lion.”
Her other feature credits include “To Die For,” “The Others,” “Eyes Wide Shut,” “Cold Mountain,” “Birth,” “The Paper Boy,” “Nine,” “Killing of a Sacred Deer,” “The Beguiled,” “Boy Erased,” “Aquaman,” “Bombshell” and “The Prom.”
In television, Kidman received Emmy, Golden Globe, Critics Choice and Screen Actors Guild Awards for her portrayal of Celeste in “Big Little Lies.” She also starred in and received several nominations for her roles in “Hemingway and Gellhorn” and “The Undoing.” Additionally, Kidman starred in and served as co-executive producer on “Nine Perfect Strangers” and “Roar.” Kidman most recently appeared in Robert Eggers’ film “The Northman” and wrapped production on an untitled romantic comedy co- starring Joey King and Zac Efron. Kidman will also star in the upcoming drama series “Expats.”
LIONESS will also star series regulars Jill Wagner as Bobby, a CIA Special Activities Division operative; Dave Annable as Neil, Joe’s husband and the father of their two daughters; LaMonica Garrett and James Jordan as Tucker and Two Cups, respectively, both experienced CIA Special Activities Division operatives on Joe’s team; Austin Hébert as Randy, a tech specialist in charge of surveillance; Hannah Love Lanier as Kate, Joe and Neil’s daughter; Stephanie Nur as Aaliyah, the daughter of a billionaire businessman with ties to terrorism; and Jonah Wharton as Tex, another member of Joe’s team.
The series is executive produced by Taylor Sheridan, David C. Glasser, Zoe Saldaña, Nicole Kidman, Ron Burkle, Bob Yari, David Hutkin, Jill Wagner, Geyer Kosinski, Michael Malone and John Hillcoat. LIONESS is the latest addition to Sheridan’s growing slate on Paramount+, which includes 1883, MAYOR OF KINGSTOWN, TULSA KING and 1923 as well as the upcoming series BASS REEVES and LAND MAN.
Yellowstone: 1923 release schedule – when is episode 5 out?
By Morgan CormackYellowstone has grown a huge fan base since the Western drama first premiered in 2018 and has since spawned several spin-offs including last year’s 1883.
Now, the first four episodes of Yellowstone's latest spin-off, titled 1923, have landed and introduced a new generation of Duttons led by patriarch Jacob (Harrison Ford) and matriarch Cara (Dame Helen Mirren). The Paramount Plus series picks up after the events of 1883, exploring the early 20th century when pandemics, historic drought, the end of Prohibition and the Great Depression all plagued the mountain west.
Unfortunately, viewers will have to wait a while to see the next developments, with episode 5 of the Yellowstone prequel set to land on Paramount Plus in February 2023. So, when will episode 5 come out?
Here's everything you need to know about 1923's mid-season hiatus
1923 episode release schedule. So far, viewers have got used to the regular viewing schedule of 1923, with episodes airing weekly on Mondays in the UK. In the US, the show airs on the Sunday. The rest of the series will follow suit in the same release pattern. But with one major twist – there will be a mid-season hiatus.
Following the release of the fourth episode, the series is pausing for a short period of time, with the final four episodes airing weekly from Monday 6th February. The eight-episode series will likely wrap up with an epic season finale so make sure that Monday 27th February is marked in your calendars.
1923 episode 5 – Monday 6th February 2023
1923 episode 6 – Monday 13th February 2023
1923 episode 7 – Monday 20th February 2023
1923 episode 8 – Monday 27th February 2023
What has happened so far in 1923?
Although the series is filled with family drama and tension, fans of Yellowstone do already know how things pan out for the Dutton family. Of course, we know them to be the successful family of ranchers in the most recent seasons of the hit drama, so this prequel series only gives us an insight into the family members that came before them. Spoilers ahead...
1923 has so far included death, flash forwards, split narratives in Kenya, a lot of familial hostility and growing tensions in the farming community. In the third episode, eldest brother John Dutton Senior was surprisingly killed off, much to the devastation of his family. It was a plot formulated by a group of local sheep farmers in a dramatic act of revenge but will the Duttons exact revenge back? And will Spencer return from Africa in order to help the family cope with the loss of his brother?
As well as Dame Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford leading the cast as Cara and Jacob Dutton, the series also stars Brandon Sklenar (Midway) as Spencer Dutton, James Badge Dale (Hightown) as John Dutton Senior, Julia Schlaepfer (The Politician) as Alexandra, and Jerome Flynn (Game of Thrones) as Banner Creighton
1923 also stars Darren Mann (Animal Kingdom), Michelle Randolph (A Snow White Christmas), Marley Shelton (Scream), Brian Geraghty (Big Sky) and Aminah Nieves (Blueberry).
Wrangler National Finals Rodeo Payout Rises Again In 2023; Now Exceeds $14.9 Million
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Las Vegas Events announced today that the 2023 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo will see an increase in the payout at the world’s richest rodeo in December for the third consecutive year.
The Wrangler NFR, which is scheduled this year at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas from Dec. 7-16, will have a record-setting competition payout of more than $11.5 million. This amount includes guaranteed prize money of $1.2 million for all NFR qualifiers and $10,301,505 in competition prize money.
Between 2015 and 2020, the NFR paid out a total of $10 million each year – $8.8 million in competition prize money and $1.2 million in guaranteed prize money to qualifiers. The total purse increased to $10,257,048 in 2021 and $10,900,098 in 2022. Based on the updated purse in 2023, each go-round will pay a total of $99,053 per event, with the round winner taking home $30,706. The average total per event increased to $297,159, with the average winner earning $78,747 at the conclusion of the ten-day event. The stock contractor pay – which is 30% of the contestant payout – increased to $3,450,451.
Known as the richest and most prestigious rodeo in the world, the Wrangler NFR attracts the top 15 contestants in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding to compete for a share of the increased purse and the coveted PRCA Gold Buckle. In 2022, the event had a total attendance of 173,350 over the 10 days of competition at the Thomas & Mack Center and has sold out more than 350 consecutive performances in Las Vegas.
TOP 5 PROFESSIONALS FROM NRCHA, NCHA AND NRHA STANDINGS EACH ADVANCE TO THE AMERICAN PERFORMANCE HORSEMAN AT GLOBE LIFE FIELD
Making its debut during The American Western Weekend at Globe Life Field, The American Performance Horseman will feature the Top 5 professionals from the National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA), National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) and National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) standings on Friday, March 10, 2023.
For the first time ever, the top five year-end money earning professionals from the NRCHA, NCHA and the NRHA will come together at the 42,000seat Globe Life Field competing for $1,000,000 in prize money. The competitive exhibition format will fuse the elements of history and competition in an ode to the past, present, and future of western performance horse sports.
The unprecedented team concept will see five teams of three athletes, alongside some of the most well-known and respected Quarter Horses in the industry. Each team will consist of a Reiner, Reined Cow Horse professional and Cutting professional. The evening’s fast-paced exhibition competition will begin with the Cutting, then move into the Reining pattern and close out with the Reined Cow Horse athletes.
The Top 5 qualifying NRCHA athletes who will represent the reined cow horse industry at the inaugural event include Sarah Dawson (Perrin, Texas), Lee Deacon (Marietta, Oklahoma), Justin Wright (Santa Maria, California), Chris Dawson (Perrin, Texas) and Corey Cushing (Weatherford, Texas).
The Top 5 qualifying NCHA athletes who will represent the cutting horse community on March 10 include Adan
Banuelos(Weatherford, Texas), Austin Shepard (Summerdale, Alabama), Lloyd Cox (Marietta, Oklahoma), Wesley Galyean (Claremore, Oklahoma) and Lindy Thorn (Claremore, Oklahoma).
The Top 5 qualifying open NRHA athletes who will represent the sport of reining at the inaugural event include Shawn Flarida(Springfield, Ohio), Andrea Fappani (Scottsdale, Arizona), Casey Deary (Weatherford, Texas), Fernando Salgado (Gainesville, Texas) and Matt Mills (Weatherford, Texas).
For fans wanting to make this one-of-a-kind weekend even more memorable, a variety of VIP and premium offerings are available for both The American Performance Horseman at 6:45 p.m. CST on Friday, March 10 and The American Rodeo at 5:45 p.m. CST on Saturday, March 11. Guests can enjoy exclusive dining and cocktail options, field-side VIP seating, commemorative credentials, floor access during concerts, exclusive photo opportunities and much more throughout the weekend.
The American Performance Horseman
Teton Ridge is a multi-platform, wholly American-owned brand and media company devoted to the iconic American western way of life; dedicated to elevating classic Western sports and America’s western culture on the world stage.
In 2021, Teton Ridge acquired The American Rodeo, The Crown Jewel of Rodeo, with the vision to expand the audience and create innovative events like The Western Weekend, which includes The American Performance Horseman. On the eve of The American Rodeo—Friday, March 10—at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, The American Performance Horseman will premiere.
This unprecedented event will showcase western equine sports of cutting, reining, and reined cow horse in a fast-paced, made for television exhibition. This historic event will be the first time the associations NCHA, NRHA, NRCHA, APHA & AQHA have joined together to compete under one roof.
The innovative exhibition format offers all three sports to be showcased to a wider audience and on a new global platform, vying for $1 Million dollars in the prize pool. Not only will competitors contend as individuals but also in a team format. There will be 5 teams consisting of three athletes from each discipline.
Q: What will be the order of events? A: The competition order will run as follows: Cutting competition. Reining, using an NRHAapproved modified pattern 10 The Reined Cow Horse performance will close out the event with “down the fence” runs. (The Reining portion of the Reined Cow Horse event will be done in the morning to ensure complete scoring. This section will not be televised.) Presentation of awards Entertainment (Yet to be announced – Will be an A-Lister entertainer)
Q: What will the payout be of the $1 Million prize pool?
A: Individual Prize Money per discipline event: $100,000, $75,000 $50,000, $25,000, $25,000. Team Money: $75,000 ($25,000 PER CONTESTANT), $25,000 ($8,333.33 PER CONTESTANT), $25,000($8,333.33 PER CONTESTANT), $25,000($8,333.33 PER CONTESTANT), $25,000($8,333.33 PER CONTESTANT)
Q: What will the earnings count towards? A: NCHA: TAPH does not count towards: NCHA world standings, horse of the year, or any other championships. NRHA: Does not count toward Top 10 (Category 1) World Title awards.. NRCHA: Currently, category 2 earnings count toward year-end earnings. TAPH counts only openaged event money won in the 2022 year, incentive program monies or subclasses do not count. TAPH will count towards horse and rider’s LTEs.
Q: Can the competitor show any horse? A: NCHA –Competitors can show any horse of any age. The TAPH is classified as an Open Cutting. NRHA – Competitors can show any horse of any age. The TAPH is classified as an Open Reining class. NRCHA – Yes, however, the TAPH is classified as an open bridle class. Per NRCHA Rules: Open to horses of any age, to be ridden in an NRCHA-approved bit, and reins with a romal are required.
Q: When will the athletes need to name their show horse? A: Competitors can name up to two horses prior to February 7th, 2023. Final selection of horses will take place one week prior to the competition on March 3rd, 2023.
Q: How did the athletes qualify to compete at The American Performance Horseman? A: The qualification is based on the open rider, not the horse. The qualified riders are the Top 5 athletes with the highest aged event money from the 2022 show season, not including subclasses or incentives. For NRHA, all money earned in Category 1–10 counts toward qualifying.
Q: Is there any entry fee to compete? A: No
Q: What is the team portion of the competition? A: Five teams of one cutter, one reiner, and one reined cow horse competitor will compete in a team format and for individual prize money. The accumulative score of each rider on a team will determine the placings of the team portion of the competition. i.e. Reining score + Cutting score + Reined Cow Horse score = Team Score: Team Colors: Royal Blue, Regal Red, Imperial Purple, Racing Green, and Burnt Orange
Q: In the event of a tie, will there be a tiebreaker? A: Individual Competition – In the event of a tie, a work-off will not be held and a tiebreaker will be used to determine the winner. Tiebreaker one: All five judges’ scores will be added to determine the winner. Tiebreaker two: If still tied, the tiebreaker judge will determine the winner. *Within the reined cow horse competition, the first tiebreaker will be determined by the highest cow work score. If still tied, tiebreakers one and two will be used to break the tie.
B: Team Competition: Tiebreaker One: All five judges’ scores in each of the individual competitions will be added to determine the winning team. If still tied, the scores from the tiebreaker judges from each of the individual competitions will be added together to determine the champion team. If still tied, a coin toss will determine the champion team.
Q: Globe Life Field will be transformed into a show arena. How will that work for each discipline? A:The field will be transformed into a 150 ft x 250 ft arena; after each discipline, the arena will be adjusted accordingly to suit the next discipline.
Q: When will the draw be available? A: The draw party will be shared live on NRHA social media and will be available on February 10, 2023.
Q: How are the judges chosen? A: There will be a 5-judge panel from each association for each corresponding discipline. Each association will provide the highest accredited judges from each discipline.
Q: In the event that one of the competitors is unable to compete, what is the protocol? A: In the event that a competitor chooses to or is not able to compete in the event, it is their responsibility to notify event organizers with little or no delay upon their decision to withdraw.
If a Top 5 American Performance Horseman qualifier withdraws from the competition, event organizers will notify the first alternate on the list of 2022 Top Professionals provided by the event’s respective governing association. If the first alternate declines, the next highest alternate will be notified.
Q: How will the teams be chosen? A: There will be five teams of three. Each team will consist of a cutter, reiner, and reined cow horse athlete. Teams will be drawn at random. Draw order will be segregated by discipline and ordered starting with the highest yearend money earner.
Etalon Inc, a unique bio and agritech company, announced a Series A financing led by Thomas Tull and Teton Ridge with participation from Vani Khosla, Signe Ostby, Dr. Charlie Buchanan, Dr. Russell Kerschmann, Christa Lafayette, Dr. Charlie Pinkham, Dr. John Quelch, Humberto Valverde, Erica W. Lundquist and Aaron Ganz, among others, bringing total funding to $18 million.
“Etalon is a unique and innovative product for the equine industry,” said Christa Lafayette, Etalon Founder and CEO. “Using genetic diagnostics, a dash of ancestry and kinship, we can see our animals in a whole new way. Information at this scale
Etalon Secures $18 Million ‘Series A’ Funding in Partnership with Teton Ridge
provides real, in-depth, ‘whole picture’ insight with actionable results; not just a surface view. Combining this technology with openly collaborative everyday horse owner knowhow has put a whole new spin on ‘crowdsourcing’. The science alone is potent, but this combination is especially
powerful.”
Using internal expertise alongside strong collaboration with veterinarians, top equestrians, and the everyday horse owner, rider, and enthusiast, Etalon has already developed industry-leading genetic discovery tools and an affordable, comprehensive set of user-friendly applications. These tools and applications, like Build-a-Horse, allow horse owners to understand the health, disposition, and strengths of their horse(s), turning once-complex genetic analysis into easyto-understand, usable, and actionable data. Building on these concepts and technologies, Etalon is also developing genetic therapies
for animals with the goal of reversing human-induced damage such as inbreeding and disease propagation resulting from fashionable breeding. These genetic therapies, advancements, and innovations will have positive implications for the horse as well as for humans and other mammals.
“Teton Ridge has invested in Etalon because it aligns with our mission of innovation within the equine industry,” said Thomas Tull, founder and chairman of Teton Ridge. “The science behind Etalon is an unprecedented advancement in equine genetics, using this technology and a proprietary platform to maximize suitability and ultimate performance.”
AMY MILLAR TAPPED TO HOST EXCLUSIVE PRESTIGE YOUTH CUP CLINIC AT DESERT INTERNATIONAL HORSE PARK
By Tori BilasIn 2021, Prestige Italia established the Prestige Youth Cup, sponsoring Children’s Jumper Classic events worldwide and offering the unique opportunity to qualify for and compete in world-class clinics with top athlete clinicians. With the goal of supporting a new generation of future athletes in Europe, Prestige Italia is expanding the concept to North America, sponsoring each of the Children’s Jumper Classics taking place this season at Desert International Horse Park (DIHP).
The Prestige Youth Cup, taking place on Sundays of the 2023 Desert Circuit, is a Table II.2.b jumping class set at 1.15m for Children’s Jumper competitors aged 17 and below. Every week, the top three placed riders are invited for awards, and will receive Prestige Italia gifts at their onsite vendor booth.
At the close of Desert Circuit, the top five riders, based on the circuit championship standings, will earn themselves the opportunity to ride in a clinic with a top-level Prestige Italia sponsored rider Amy Millar (CAN). The young athletes invited will receive a swag bag, including a saddle pad and bonnet from Prestige Italia. Amy Millar, daughter of “Captain Canada” Ian Millar, has earned more than 25 grand prix wins to date. A grand prix competitor since age 19, Millar knows the importance of a strong foundation in show jumping, having also competed and earned the individual silver medal at the North American Youth Championships. In 2016 Millar was part of Team Canada for the the Rio Olympic Games. Millar has been named to numerous Canadian Nations Cup teams, and has most recently been competing as part of Team Eye Candy on the Major League Show Jumping Tour, guiding the team to multiple victories across North America.
Millar’s name is added to the impressive list of past Prestige Youth Cup clinicians in Europe, including world-renowned riders Philipp Weishaupt (GER), Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum (GER), and Christian Kukuk (GER). Millar is the first to lead the Prestige Youth Cup on North American soil.
“We are dedicated to producing sport at the highest level, and that dedication begins with supporting young athletes and their development in the sport,” commented Steve Hankin, President and CEO of DIHP. “We are honored to have been selected to host the Prestige Youth Cup clinic and believe the program will serve as a strong pipeline for the future superstars in show jumping.”
The Prestige Youth Cup clinic has yet to announce a final date, but will take place in December 2023 during the Major League Show Jumping Finals at DIHP.
JORDON BRIGGS' HORSE ROLLO NAMED PRCA | AQHA HORSE OF THE YEAR
By TANNER BARTH, PRCA Media CoordinatorJordon Briggs and Famous Lil Jet "Rollo" have taken the ProRodeo world by storm the past two seasons. Rollo was named the Nutrena Barrel Racing Horse of the Year presented by AQHA in both 2021 and 2022.
Now in 2023, the dominant duo can add another impressive title to their resume. After a vote by fans, Rollo was named the overall winner for PRCA | AQHA Horse of the Year. The voting included all seven of the 2022 Horse of the Year winners by event. Riding Rollo, Briggs captured the 2021 PRCA World Championship. Over the past two seasons she earned $571,980 aboard the nine-year-old horse. Briggs said she never imagined Rollo would be able to accomplish what he has in his short career.
"It's truly an honor, especially given that we didn't have the Finals we exactly hoped for," said Briggs, a three-time NFR qualifier. "There were definitely some other horses of the year that did have great NFRs. So, I just appreciate so much that people saw how hard he still tried and that he's still an amazing horse no matter what.
"He has done amazing things the last three years that I didn't even think were possible to accomplish in that short amount of time. For him to be the soul income of my family right now and to just enjoy that process while we can has been a huge blessing." Briggs and Rollo will hit the rodeo road again this winter with
their sights set on their third consecutive trip to Las Vegas next December.
"He's only nine years old, so he still has a lot of his career ahead of him hopefully," she said. "We are just getting ready for the winter rodeos and hoping we can do good at those. So, that we can have an easy year and I can take care of Rollo the way he deserves to be taken care of."
PBR World Finals 30th Anniversary Season
By Kacie AlbertThis May, the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) World Finals will return to Fort Worth, Texas, for the second consecutive season. The seven-day marathon event will take over Dickies Arena May 12-14 and 18-21, to conclude the 30th anniversary individual season and crown the 2023 PBR World Champion.
During the 2023 season, the PBR is celebrating its 30th anniversary since 20 cowboys broke away from the traditional rodeo with the belief that bull riding could be a standalone sport. Since their trailblazing initiative, the PBR has grown into a global phenomenon awarding nearly $300 million in prize money. When the World Finals debuted in Fort Worth in May 2022, fans witnessed one of the most ferocious championship races in PBR history for both riders and bulls.
Riding an incredible post-season wave of momentum, Daylon Swearingen (Piffard, New York) capped a dominant season by winning the 2022 PBR World Finals: Unleash The Beast to be crowned the 2022 PBR World Champion. As the 2022 PBR World Finals got underway, Swearingen bucked off in Round 1, surrendering his world No. 1 rank, but he then rode six bulls in a row to pull away from the field.
Locked in a ride-for-ride battle with Joao Ricardo Vieira (Itatinga, Brazil) to begin the event, and Kaique Pacheco (Itatiba, Brazil) in the final rounds, the 2022 PBR World Championship came down to the final two outs of the event. When Championship Sunday got underway with Round 7, Swearingen and Pacheco, the 2018 World Champion, both converted, leaving the gold buckle up for grabs in the final round.
For their final outs of the season, Swearingen was tasked with Mike’s Magic (Five Star Ranch/BS Cattle), while Pacheco readied to face off against Manaba (Joe & Nina Webb/Julian/D&H Cattle Co.) in a must-ride situation. When Pacheco was brought down by Manaba in 5.9 seconds, Swearingen clinched the 2022 PBR World Championship before even readying his rope.
Despite being brought down in 2.05 seconds and getting roughed up by the rampaging bull, Swearingen’s gutsy 6-for-8 showing at the event earned him the World Finals event title and his career-first PBR World Championship. Swearingen is now just the seventh rider to capture both honors in the same season. He is the 20th different rider – and 12th American – to claim the PBR World Champion gold buckle since the sport’s first championship in 1994.
Throughout 2022, Swearingen went an impressive 26-for-60, covering 43.33% of his animal athlete opponents. He earned $1,697,481.63, including $1,394,000 for his career-first PBR World Championship and World Finals event win.
Oldest DNA from domesticated American horse lends credence to shipwreck folklore
Feral horses have roamed freely across the island of Assateague off the coast of Maryland and Virginia for hundreds of years, but exactly how they got there has remained a mystery. In a new study, ancient DNA extracted from a 16th century cow tooth from one of Spain's first Caribbean colonies turns out to be from a horse. Analysis of the DNA suggest that old folk tales claiming that horses were marooned on Assateague following the shipwreck of a Spanish galleon are likely more fact than fiction.
An abandoned Caribbean colony unearthed centuries after it had been forgotten and a case of mistaken identity in the archaeological record have conspired to rewrite the history of a barrier island off the Virginia and Maryland coasts.
These seemingly unrelated threads were woven together when Nicolas Delsol, a postdoctoral researcher at the Florida Museum of Natural History, set out to analyze ancient DNA recovered from cow bones found in archaeological sites. Delsol wanted to understand how cattle were domesticated in the Americas, and the genetic information preserved in centuries-old teeth held the answer. But they also held a surprise.
"It was a serendipitous finding," he said. "I was sequencing mitochondrial DNA from fossil cow teeth for my Ph.D. and realized something was very different with one of the specimens when I analyzed the sequences."
That's because the specimen in question, a fragment of an adult molar, wasn't a cow tooth at all but instead once belonged to a horse. According to a study published this Wednesday in the journal PLOS ONE, the DNA obtained from the tooth is also the oldest ever sequenced for a domesticated horse from the Americas. The tooth was excavated from one of Spain's first colonized settlements. Located on the island of Hispaniola, the town of Puerto Real was established in 1507 and served for decades as the last port of call for ships sailing from the Caribbean. But rampant piracy and the rise of illegal trade in the 16th century forced the Spanish to consolidate their power elsewhere on the island, and in 1578, residents were ordered to evacuate Puerto Real. The abandoned town was destroyed the following year by Spanish officials.
The remnants of the once-bustling port were inadvertently rediscovered by a medical missionary named William Hodges in 1975. Archaeological excavations of the site led by Florida Museum distinguished research curator Kathleen Deagan were carried out between 1979 and 1990. Horse fossils and associated artifacts are incredibly rare at Puerto Real and similar sites from the time period, but cow remains are a common find. According to Delsol, this skewed ratio is primarily due to the way Spanish colonialists valued their livestock.
"Horses were reserved for individuals of high status, and owning one was a sign of prestige," he said. "There are full-page descriptions of horses in the documents that chronicle the arrival of [Hernán] Cortés in Mexico, demonstrating how important they were to the Spanish."
In contrast, cows were used as a source of meat and leather, and their bones were regularly discarded in communal waste piles called middens. But one community's trash is an archaeologist's treasure, as the refuse from middens often confers the clearest glimpse into what people ate and how they lived.
The specimen's biggest surprise wasn't revealed until Delsol compared its DNA with that of modern horses from around the world. Given that the Spanish brought their horses from the Iberian Peninsula in southern Europe, he expected horses still living in that region would be the closest living relatives of the 500-year-old Puerto Real specimen.
Instead, Delsol found its next of kin over 1,000 miles north of Hispaniola, on the island of Assateague off the coast of Maryland and Virginia. Feral horses have roamed freely across the long stretch of barrier island for hundreds of years, but exactly how they got there has remained a mystery.
According to the National Park Service, which manages the northern half of Assateague, the likeliest explanation is that the horses were brought over in the 1600s by English colonists from the mainland in an attempt to evade livestock taxes and fencing laws. Others believe the feral herds descended from horses that survived the shipwreck of a Spanish galleon and swam to shore, a theory popularized in the 1947 children's novel "Misty of Chincoteague." The book was later adapted to film, helping spread the shipwreck legend to an even wider audience.
Until now, there has been little evidence to support either theory. Proponents of the shipwreck theory claim it would be unlikely that English colonists would lose track of valuable livestock, while those in favor of an English origin of the herds point to the lack of sunken vessels nearby and the omission of feral horses in historical records of the region.
The results of the DNA analysis, however, unequivocally point to Spanish explorers as being the likeliest source of the horses on Assateague, Delsol explained. "It's not widely reported in the historical literature, but the Spanish were exploring this area of the mid-Atlantic pretty early on in the 16th century. The early colonial literature is often patchy and not completely thorough. Just because they don't mention the horses doesn't mean they weren't there."
The feral herds on Assateague weren't the only horses to revert back to their wild heritage after arriving in the Americas. Colonists from all over Europe brought with them horses of various breeds and pedigrees, some of which bucked their bonds and escaped into the surrounding countryside.
Today, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management estimates there are roughly 86,000 wild horses across the country, most of which are located in western states, such as Nevada and Utah. Delsol hopes that future ancient DNA studies will help decode the complex history of equine introductions and migrations that occurred over the last several centuries and offer a clearer understanding of today's diversity of wild and domesticated horses.
Two studies led by Dr. Judith Koenig and her team at the Ontario Veterinary College have shown equine pooled cryopreserved umbilical cord blood, (eCB) MSC, to be safe and effective in treating joint pain and inflammation. Both studies received funding from Equine Guelph.
Strong Support for Future Use of Stem Cells to Treat Equine Osteoarthritis
In the first study, the stem cells harvested from multiple donors of equine umbilical cord blood, (eCB), (kindly provided by eQcell), MSC were compared to saline injections in research horses. “This type of cells is much more practical if you have a cell bank,” says
Koenig. “You can treat more horses with it and it’s off the shelf.” With no systemic reactions, the green light was given for the second study to test stem cell therapy in horses with lameness due to fetlock osteoarthritis.
Effectiveness of treatment in the second study was
conducted by a lameness evaluator that was blinded to whether the horses received stem cell treatment or the saline placebo. “Being consistent in creating the same size chip surgically in the horses prior to treatment and exercise was a challenge,” said Koenig. The four-month study necessitated considerable manpower, with six standardbreds receiving equal daily exercise on treadmills following up with MRI’s.
MRI’s, xrays, ultrasounds and weekly lameness evaluations revealed signs of osteoarthritis improved in the group treated with (eCB) MSC’s. After six weeks of treatment, the arthroscopic score was also significantly lower in the MSC group compared to the control group. Another trial with six horses is planned for Spring 2023. The initial findings are very exciting for the future possibilities of treating equine osteoarthritis with stem cell therapy.
Equine Guelph is pleased to support a number of highquality projects at the University of Guelph, by virtue of funding provided largely by the racing industry (Standardbred, Thoroughbred and Quarter horse organizations): the Horse Improvement Program from the Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, and the E.P. Taylor Foundation, started by veterinarians in the Thoroughbred industry, and now maintained in trust by the University and Equine Guelph.
Equine Guelph is the horse owners’ and care givers’ Centre at the University of Guelph in Canada. It is a unique partnership dedicated to the health and well-being of horses, supported and overseen by equine industry groups.
Equine Guelph is the epicentre for academia, industry and government – for the good of the equine industry as a whole.
FDA approves first generic firocoxib tablet for horses
These tablets will help treat pain and inflammation in connection to osteoarthritis in equine patients
Officials at the FDA recently approved the generic Firocxib Tablets for Horses (Pegasus Laboratories) to treat equine patients suffering from inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis. This approval marks the first generic firocoxib tablet for horses to receive FDA
approval. These tablets contain the same concentration and dosage form as Equioxx Tablets (Merial Limited and Boehringer Ingelheim), the drug product that was approved by the FDA in 2016.
Firocoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by affecting the
enzymes that cause fever, inflammation, and pain and is only available by prescription. This is because a veterinarian’s expertise is needed to determine if this course of treatment is appropriate while also monitoring the horses that are taking firocoxib.
With NSAIDs, there are some adverse effects veterinarians and owners should be on the lookout for.
According to the FDA, some common adverse effects of this drug affect the tongue, lips, skin of the mouth, and face, including erosions and ulcers of the skin and mucosa. Other adverse effects associated with NSAIDs include gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver problems.
Veterinarians can prescribe firocoxib to horses as halfscored tablets in 57mf that can be administered once daily for up to 14 days. Each bottle contains 60 tablets. If prescribing or refilling this product, veterinarians should provide clients with the Firocoxib Tablets for Horses Client Information Sheet.
The Publisher and Editor cannot be held responsible for errors or any consequences arising from the use of information contained in this publication; the views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher and Editors, neither does the publication of advertisements constitute any endorsement by the Publisher and Editors
NATIONAL ARABIAN HORSE DAY FEBRUARY 19
Arabian horses fill their owners with a passion equal to what they hold for loved family members. So, every day to them is National Arabian Horse Day. However, on February 19, the Arabian horse is recognized as one of the most popular breeds in the world.
When asking the question, "What horse breed most exemplifies beauty, grace, stamina, athletic ability, adaptability, pride, refinement, versatility, and emotional connections with its human counterpart," the Arabian horse tops the list. From the backyard family member to Champion show horse, the Arabian horse fits every capacity a person can imagine. Their unique history and distinctive head shape also make them one of the most easily recognizable horse breeds.
ARABIAN HORSE HISTORY
The origins of the oldest purebred Arabian horse in the world date back thousands of years to the Arabian Peninsula. The Bedouins, tribesmen of Arabia, are believed to be the first to domesticate the Arabian horse, forming a harmonious relationship in times of both peace and war, a horse that is good-natured, quick to learn, and willing to please, while also exhibiting supreme endurance and speed. A symbol of military might, cavalry needs led to the spread of the
The Arabian horse has endured for thousands of years. That's just one reason why they are so loved and admired. They are also loyal companions to young and old. Arabian horses also offer endless opportunities to be active and meet new people. Anyone can have one in their life.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalArabianHorseDay
Celebrate your love of the Arabian horse on National Arabian Horse Day.
• Celebrate the day with The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, where the Arabian horse, breeders, competitors, and enthusiasts can appreciate all the breed's magnificent qualities.
• Attend a competition to experience the qualities of the Arabian horse in action.
• Get involved! Join or attend your local affiliate club to learn more about Arabian horses.
• Visit a local Arabian horse farm near you. Go to experiencearabianhorses.com/ farm-finder to learn more.
• Share your experience and knowledge of the Arabian horse with others.
• Experience the Arabian horse and use #NationalArabianHorseDay to share on social media.
breed around the world. Still, today, the Arabian horsere tains all these desired qualities that made it so coveted. The Arabian is also the foundation for many other familiar breeds such as the Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, Morgan, and American Saddlebred.
ARABIAN HORSE FACTS
• Beyond its unique beauty and athletic traits, the Arabian is also known for bonding with humans and its loyal disposition.
• Noted for its distinctive features, enthusiasts immediately recognize the Arabian's dished face and high tail. Other notable features include wide-set eyes, large nostrils, an arched neck, and an easy stride.
• There are over one million Arabian horses in 62countries, with the U.S. having more than half.
• The average lifespan of Arabian horses is 25-30years.
• Notable Arabian horse owners include Napoleon Bonaparte, George Washington, Wayne Newton, Patrick Swayze, and Shania Twain.
First injectable pentosan for equine osteoarthritis is approved by FDA
Appropriate management can help control the clinical signs and improve equine quality of life
Officials with the FDA have approved pentosan polysulfate sodium injection (Zycosan;
Anzac Animal Health) for the control of clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in horses. This therapy is a heparin-like compound and is the first injectable pentosan product to receive FDA approval.
Pentosan polysulfate sodium injection will be an
important addition to the available approved drugs to control the clinical signs of OA in horses, according to the FDA. It is indicated for intramuscular use in horses only and is only available with a veterinary prescription. The drug should be administered at a dose of 3 mg/kg (1.4 mg/ lb) by intramuscular injection once weekly for 4 weeks (for a total of 4 doses). Pentosan
polysulfate sodium injection is supplied in a 7.5 ml single use vial.1,2
Filling a therapeutic need
OA involves the slow breakdown of joint cartilage, which can result in a variety of clinical signs such as lameness, stiffness, and joint swelling. Although there is no cure for the condition, appropriate management can help control the clinical signs of OA in horses and improve their quality of life.1
Unapproved injectable formulations of pentosan have a long history of use in horses, but the newly approved therapy is the first injectable pentosan product to have met the FDA’s standards. FDA-approved drugs have been demonstrated to be safe and effective for their intended use and have been consistently manufactured to preserve the drugs’ identity, strength, quality, and purity. The FDA is strongly encouraging veterinarians to use the legally marketed FDA-approved pentosan polysulfate sodium injection when pentosan is indicated for use in an equine patient.1
The drug’s sponsor conducted a field study of 237 client-owned horses of various breeds that were each diagnosed with osteoarthritis in 1 lame leg. In the treatment group, 120 horses received pentosan polysulfate sodium injection by intramuscular administration in the neck once every 7 days for 4 weeks for a total of 4 doses. In the control group, 117 horses were given an equal volume of saline at the same dosage regimen.1,3
Each horse’s lameness was graded on Days 0 and 28 of the study. On Day 28, improved lameness grades were demonstrated in 57% of horses in the group that received pentosan polysulfate sodium injection and 36% in the negative control group.3
The Foundation for the Horse announces over $10 million in support
The foundation disclosed it received $11.4 million since 2020 in campaign gifts and commitments
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) announced that since The Foundation for the Horse began its very first campaign, “Taking the Lead— The Campaign for the Horse,” it raised $11.4 million in campaign gifts and commitment. The money raised surpassed the campaign’s original goal of $10 million.
According to an organizational release,1 the campaign, chaired by Monty McInturff, DVM, founding partner and president of Tennessee Equine Hospital in Thompson’s Station, Tennessee, launched quietly in January 2020. Then in December 2021, the campaign announced its goal of $10 million publicly with $6.8 million committed at the time of the announcement.
“This is our way of giving back to the horse,” explained McInturf, in the release. “It’s horse doctors, horse owners, and industry organizations going above and beyond for the welfare of horses. Donors and those who love the horse have made this possible. Equine veterinarians have been making this possible through The Foundation for going on 29 years.”
Appealing to anyone who cares about the health and well-being of horses, the campaign prioritizes medical research, scholarships for veterinary students, and programs to support horses at risk of abandonment, infectious diseases, in need of urgent care, and neglect.
$25,000 reward for wild horse killers
By Amy Alonzo, Reno Gazette JournalMore than a year after five wild horses were slaughtered outside Ely, the Bureau of Land Management and wild horse advocacy groups are still seeking answers as to who killed the horses and why.
In November of 2021, five horses were discovered within 600 yards of each other about two miles south of Hwy. 50 in Jakes Valley. An aborted horse fetus was attached to one of the dead horses. Another horse was found alive, but it was wounded so severely it was euthanized. A necropsy revealed the horses were 18 months to six years old. The BLM estimates they were killed within 24 hours of their discovery.
A $25,000 reward is now being offered for information
leading to the arrest of who shot and mortally wounded the horses. The National Mustang Association contributed $10,000, American wild horse campaign contributed $5,000 and Wild Horse Education added $5,000. The 1971 Wild FreeRoaming Horses and Burro Act of 1971 declares the animals “be protected from capture, branding, harassment, or death.”
In 1998, nearly three dozen wild horses were shot to death at close range with a rifle in a canyon east of Reno. Some were maimed, and at least one
was tortured after being shot. Three Wooster High School graduates were eventually arrested for the shootings. The men were accused of grand theft, grand larceny and poisoning, and maiming or killing another person’s animal.
The 1998 slaughter was believed to be the largest single shooting of wild horses in the state since the mid-1980’s, when roughly 600 horses were killed over a two-year period due to friction with ranchers, the BLM said at the time. Anyone with information about the Jakes Valley incident is encouraged to call the BLM crime hotline at 1-775-861-6550.
Scottsdale’s Arabian Horse Show returns for 68th year in Feb.
The Arabian Horse Association of Arizona has announced the return of the 68th annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show at WestWorld of Scottsdale starting on Thursday, Feb. 16 through Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023.
“Scottsdale is the mecca for Arabian horses and each year we’re thrilled to have unique, beautiful horses from around the world come here for this event,” Taryl O’Shea, executive director of the AHAA, said in a press release. “The Arabian horse community helped shape what Scottsdale is today and has had tremendous impact both economically, culturally and socially over the past six decades. We’re grateful for the opportunity to welcome back the horse community, newcomers and enthusiasts this February.”
The show will feature more than 2,000 horses competing for more than $3 million in prize money. Event goers can look forward to a huge variety of classes where Arabians will show their versatility, beauty and grace. One is the new ranch horse classes testing the Arabians’ ability to perform ranch tasks, proving the horse as good for pleasure riding, working and agility.
Along with the engaging performances, event attendees will have the opportunity to
The 11-day show will start at 8 a.m. each day at WestWorld located at 16601 N. Pima Road in Scottsdale. General admission tickets cost $15, for seniors $10, while children aged 12 and under are free.
Military Appreciation Day is Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, when military personnel and their families can attend for free. A family night will be held on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023, giving families free admission beginning at 6:30 p.m.
A special general admission ticket good for all 11 days can be purchased for $75.
see exhibits featuring fine art, crafts, clothing and jewelry in the shopping expo adjacent to the main arena. More than 300 artisans and entrepreneurs are expected to sell their goods and offer a wide variety of products and services.
The immersive experience of the show will give attendees a hands-on experience to learn, touch and ride, hosted by HoofbeatZ USA, a Phoenix-based organization. The AHAA will also be celebrating the second annual National Arabian Horse Day on Feb. 19, 2023 with special events and activities at the show.
WORLD’S BEST RODEO ATHLETES ADVANCE TO THE AMERICAN RODEO ON MARCH 11
As the dust settled in Las Vegas following the National Finals Rodeo, presented by Teton Ridge (NFR), and the leaderboard of western sports athletes in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) was decided, the Top 5 champions in each rodeo discipline immediately punched their ticket to advance to The American Rodeo at Globe Life Field on March 11, 2023 in Arlington, Texas.
A full list of champion athletes advancing to The American
Rodeo Contender Round from the PRCA and WPRA leaderboards–including all-star names like Hailey Kinsel, Stetson Wright, Jess Pope, Martha Angelone and any more – can be found HERE.
The revered champion competitors will go up against underdog “Contenders” that have rigorously competed over the course of the year in the newly launched American Rodeo Contender Tournament to advance to the ultimate high-stakes showdown. While the professional athletes will be defending their champion status, the everyday cowboys and cowgirls going up against them will be chasing a life-changing $1 million bonus.
Fans will have the opportunity to cheer on those dedicated “Contenders” in addition to professional athletes that fell outside of the Top 5 (No. 6-20) in the standings, as they put it all on the line at three nationally televised events held in Utah, Oklahoma and Kentucky prior to The American Western Weekend in Texas.
Acquired by Teton Ridge in late 2021, The American Rodeo, celebrating its 10th year, is the only rodeo where the pros compete against “the joes and the janes,” featuring competitors in all eight traditional rodeo disciplines: barrel racing, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, team roping (heading and heeling), tie down roping, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding.
With an unmatched total purse of more than $6 million in 2023, non-stop rodeo action, live music from multi-platinum recording artist Cody Johnson, entertainment and more, the industry-leading event is the centerpiece of Teton Ridge’s The American Western Weekend in Arlington, March 8-11.
Following the Regional Finals, all eyes will turn toward Arlington, Texas as the enhanced week of western sports and entertainment gets underway at 9 a.m. CST on Wednesday, March 8 with The American Contender Tournament Wild Card. On Thursday, March 9 fans can watch at 6:45 p.m. CST.
Tim Anderson Newest NRHA Million Dollar Owner
As a National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) member for more than 15 years, Tim Anderson has added multiple accomplishments to his name, including serving as the Reining Horse Foundation President, NRHA Corporate Partner, sponsor, and owner. At the 2022 NRHA Futurity, another title was added to his NRHA career, which may be the most exciting yet—becoming an NRHA Million Dollar Owner.
Anderson was an owner of three horses that competed in the NRHA Futurity MS Diamonds Level 4 Finals, a feat that is a major accomplishment in itself. “When I started my involvement with reining horses, I didn’t have this goal to become a million dollar owner,” said Anderson. “I never had any clue that we would get this involved in it. Once I started having some success with my horses, I always had the goal of being in the Top 20 Owners every year.”
“Three years ago, I saw how things were going and that my horses were on track that we might become a million dollar owner before retiring in the industry,” he continued. “This year [2022] happened to be my most successful year with my horses, and I didn’t know that until the fall. We won three futurities, and when all three made the finals, I knew we would go over the threshold.”
Anderson has found success as a breeder, picking successful yearlings, and in his partnerships— all of which were showcased at the 2022 NRHA Futurity. Of the three horses in the Level 4 finals, one was bred from a mare he owned since she was two, one he chose as an early yearling, and the third one was a partnership with good friend and past NRHA President Rick Clark.
“To go over the million dollar mark at the big show, the one we
all dream about, and to have three in the Level 4 Finals when that doesn’t happen very often, it was a huge moment of excitement and accomplishment,” he said. “We did it the old-fashioned way. Our horses have won some derbies and futurities but not the NRHA Derby or Futurity, we just chipped away at it year after year. It’s possible to chip away at the goal, and you don’t need to win a major to do it.”
Anderson and his family have been involved in the agricultural industry throughout their lives, both with their business and passions, and in the horse industry specifically for decades. Although originally in the halter and pleasure industry, Anderson fell in love with the reining industry for the fair judging system.
“Picking the right horses is a lot of luck, but my abilities are higher power given,” he said. “I was born with my abilities, and there’s no doubt about it. I can’t point my finger at one person. My mother had a huge impact on it, she was a long-term breeder and exhibitor and had a lot of influence on me reading pedigrees, reading confirmation, and trainers’ abilities. I have a good eye for animals, I have been in the livestock business for 40 years, and it sounds corny, but animals with me, and I can talk with them. It isn’t like Doctor Doolittle, but I can walk into barns and tell you within ten seconds if the animals are feeling good and the environment is comfortable for them. I have always had a very good eye for a horse.”
Although Anderson may not have initially set his sights on the million dollar mark, his appreciation for the journey and each person who helped meet the accomplishment is evident. “My partner Kim [Niven] has been a huge supporter and never questioned my moves or what I do with the horses, she also shows and has always been there 100 percent, he said. “I have great partners and am never afraid to have a partner, and all of them are done with a handshake, if it can’t be done with a handshake, we don’t do it. There have been many trainers and people who work their tails off for these trainers on my way to one million.
It is a very hard industry to work in and can be very stressful, so there have been many people who contributed to this, from grooms to lopers, saddlers, and more. “
Salvino and Cannon Creek Claim 2022 Titles at USEF Horse of the Year Awards
US Equestrian is pleased to announce that Salvino, Betsy Juliano LLC’s 2007 Hanoverian stallion, was voted the 2022 International Horse of the Year and Cannon Creek, the Wheeler family’s 2011 Holsteiner gelding, was voted the 2022 National Horse of the Year by the USEF membership. Salvino and Cannon Creek were honored during the SmartPak/USEF Horse of the Year Awards Dinner on Saturday, January 14.
International Horse of the Year
Salvino
(Sandro Hit x Dynastie, Donnerhall)
2007 Hanoverian stallion
Owner: Betsy Juliano LLC
Currently ranked 11th in the FEI Dressage World rankings with Olympian Adrienne Lyle, Salvino closed 2022 as one half of the top-ranked U.S. dressage combinations in the world. And for good reason. Success for Salvino, also known as “Vinny,” started at the 2022 Adequan® Global Dressage Festival in February and March. At AGDF 7, he and Lyle placed first in the CDI5* Grand Prix and Grand Prix Special. Then, at AGDF 11, another first-place finish, this time in the CDI4* Grand Prix.
Salvino added to a long list of career accomplishments during August’s FEI Dressage World Championship in Herning, Denmark, where he and Lyle were the only U.S. combination to compete in the Grand Prix, Grand Prix Special, and Freestyle. In the Freestyle, Salvino posted the second-highest score of his career with an 83.704% that put him and Lyle sixth in the extremely competitive Blue Hors FEI World Dressage Grand Prix Freestyle Championship.
A 2007 Hanoverian stallion owned by Besty Juliano LLC, Salvino notoriously loves showing off for a crowd, and Lyle felt the excitement and energy in Denmark. The pair have successfully completed three major championships together. Lyle says that she’s grateful and cherishes everyday she gets to spend with Vinny as the pair has formed an incredibly close partnership over the past seven years.
“None of you would know about Salvino without his best friend, trusted confidant, and rider Adrienne Lyle, the USEF International
Equestrian of the Year. She has made this horse who he is. In my opinion, a horse can have talent to the moon but without a rider who he or she can learn from, they will never reach their full potential,” said owner Betsy Juliano. “Alongside Adrienne, there is the dedication of trainer Debbie McDonald and head groom Morgan Klingensmith, who have improved [Salvino] along the way.”
Juliano was the recipient of the Horse of the Year trophy and a premium three-bottle gift pack of highly rated wine, plus an invitation to be a part of the exclusive wine club list, from Horsepower Vineyards
National Horse of the Year
Cannon Creek (Cancara x Tiffany S, Caretino) 2011 Holsteiner gelding
Owner: The Wheeler Family
Since debuting on the hunter circuit in 2021, Cannon Creek has worked his way into the spotlight and throughout the 2022 season, became one of the most formidable horses in the high performance hunter division. In March, Cannon Creek and trainer Hunt Tosh won the $25,000 USHJA International Hunter Derby at the Ocala Championship. In the spring, they won the High Performance Hunter Championship at Aiken Charity Horse Show I, the Devon Horse Show, and Upperville Colt & Horse Show.
A highlight of Cannon Creek’s 2022 season was winning the Platinum Performance/USHJA International Hunter Derby Championship at Blue Grass Festival after finishing in first place in both the classic and the handy phase. In the fall, Cannon Creek kicked off the indoors season with High Performance Hunter titles at the Pennsylvania National Horse Show in Harrisburg, Pa., and the National Horse Show in Lexington, Ky.
“This is an incredible honor for my parents, Ceil and Kenny Wheeler, and my uncle, Douglas Wheeler,” said Sallie-Mason Wheeler. “Cannon Creek is a big, sweet, amazing horse. Hunt Tosh and everyone there has done an incredible job with him. On behalf of the Wheeler family and Hunt Tosh Incorporated, we are just extremely grateful.”
Sallie-Mason Wheeler was the recipient of the Horse of the Year trophy, and the Wheeler family received a premium three-bottle gift pack of highly rated wine, plus an invitation to be a part of the exclusive wine club list, from Horsepower Vineyards.
Presenting
connect though a new Marketplace page on the SunCircuit.com website.
Sellers may list horses for FREE - See details below.
What better place to see and try out your next prospect than at one of the largest AQHA shows in the world?
Shop For Your Next Horse
The Marketplace page on SunCircuit.com will launch in mid January. We will continually update the page with submissions as they come in. Browse the listings and arrange with the seller to see the horse on the WestWorld grounds during Sun Circuit. Sun Circuit is always open to the general public with no admission or parking fees, so everyone is encouraged to take advantage of one stop shopping.
List Your Horse Now For Free
This service is FREE to any Scottsdale Arizona Sun Circuit exhibitor. Horses that are for sale at Sun Circuit are eligible for an advertising listing. To submit your ad, simply fill out the on-line Cognito form with your information and a description of the horse. You may also upload 2 photos and provide a link to a video. Your listing will appear on the Marketplace Page of SunCircuit.com, reaching thousands of monthly visitors.
KENNADEE RIGGS OF ARIZONA
CROWNED 2023 MISS RODEO AMERICA
Kennadee was crowned as Miss Rodeo America 2023 on Sunday, December 4th at the South Point Hotel and Casino.
The 22 year-old from Queen Creek represented her home state at the Miss Rodeo America Pageant as the 2022 Miss Rodeo Arizona, becoming the 5th from her state to hold the coveted national title.
Having grown up under the western skies, Kennadee has carried on the legacy of her cowgirl bloodlines as a member of the Cowgirls Historical Foundation while working for the Arizona Farm Bureau and Cowboy Lifestyle Network. She served an 18-month church mission in Brazil, Arizona, and Oklahoma, and is currently a student at Arizona State University pursuing journalism. She loves volunteering as an English teacher to Brazilians, runs The Kindness Journal Podcast, and enjoys managing social media while using it to spread light.
The Landstrom’s Black Hills Gold crown is accompanied by more than $20,000 in educational scholarships and prizes including a wardrobe of Wrangler jeans and shirts, an assortment of Montana Silversmiths jewelry, and a selection of Justin Boots and Greeley Hat Works hats. In addition to the title, Kennadee earned the Appearance, Personality and Horsemanship
Awards, and was the recipient of the Roxann Harris Memorial Competitive Spirit Scholarship.
This year, twenty-eight contestants represented their states in the weeklong national pageant consisting of a horsemanship competition, a written test on equine science and rodeo knowledge, extensive interviews, extemporaneous speaking, and a fashion show. The top five contestants – from Washington, South Dakota, Colorado, Louisiana, and Arizona – each answered a question about how she would use her platform to educate and promote the values of rural America as Miss Rodeo America 2023.
During her reign as the official representative of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Kennadee will travel around 50,000 miles and appear at nearly 100 rodeo performances, as well as make appearances at schools, civic groups and other special events in order to educate the public and create awareness about the sport of rodeo, its sponsors, and its opportunities. Kennadee will also serve as a spokesperson at a variety of promotional events and model in commercial advertisements for western clothiers, publications, sponsors and other service providers to the western industry.
As Miss Rodeo America 2023, Kennadee will begin her duties by attending press conferences immediately following her coronation and spend the remainder of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo attending appearances with Miss Rodeo America 2022, Hailey Fredericksen of Colorado. She was introduced for the first time in the Thomas & Mack Center during the sixth performance of the WNFR on Tuesday, December 6.
Pinnacle Circuit and Nutrena AQHA L1 West Championship Dates and Judges
Presented by Arizona Quarter Horse Association
Two Shows Providing Competition For Every Level
2023 Dates: May 17-21, 2023
2023 AQHA L1 West Championship Judges
Terry Cross
Casey Devitt
Robin Frid
April Devitt
John Kunkle
2023 Pinnacle Circuit Judges
Clint Ainsworth
Bruce Walquist
Jennifer Leckey
Arizona Quarter Horse Association is proud to host the Nutrena AQHA West Level 1 Championships again in 2023. The Championships will be held May 17-21 in conjunction with the Pinnacle Circuit at
WestWorld in Scottsdale, Arizona. By offering two shows simultaneously, there will be competition for every level of exhibitor.
Last year’s L1 Championships at WestWorld were a resounding success as exhibitors competed in western, English and halter classes. AQHA also welcomed many first-time Level 1 Championships exhibitors. The AZ Pinnacle Circuit will offer classes for L1 Open, Open, Amateur, Select Amateur and Youth who may show two times to a total of four AQHA judges. New for 2023 -- West Coast Ranch Horse Approved Pinnacle Circuit is approved by West Coast Ranch Horse and will count for their year end awards and World show. WCRH joins National Snaffle Bit Association, AQHA and AzQHA approvals.
AQHA Hires Director of Competitions
The American Quarter Horse Association has appointed Scott Neuman of Billings, Montana, as the Association’s director of competitions.
“We are excited to hire Scott as the new director of competitions,” said Karl Stressman, AQHA chief executive officer. “Scott’s knowledge of the industry and vision for the future will be a
great asset to the Association to enhance our show department while also ensuring the American Quarter Horse is treated humanely, with dignity, respect and compassion at all times, especially in AQHA competition.”
As the AQHA director of competitions, Neuman will direct the AQHA Show Department and will help
Neuman has been involved with AQHA for over 40 years in multiple segments of the industry.
provide overall direction for AQHA competition programs. Neuman will progress AQHA’s position as an industry leader, while ensuring the integrity of the Association’s showing programs.
Neuman has been involved with AQHA for over 40 years in multiple segments of the industry. He trained professionally for 30 years in Montana where he was also employed as the director of equestrian studies at Rocky Mountain College and served within the Montana Quarter Horse Association. An AQHA Professional Horseman, Neuman has judged the AQHA World Championship Show, AQHYA World Championship Show and Nutrena AQHA Level 1 Championships multiple times.
Aside from judging and training, Neuman has worked for An Equine Production as that show management company’s horse show manager. During his time, he managed five of the top 10 AQHA shows in the nation. He also holds judging credentials with AQHA, as well as the American Paint Horse, National Snaffle Bit and the World Conformation Horse associations.
2024 Hall of Fame Nominations
Induction into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed by the American Quarter Horse Foundation. The time has come to nominate men, women and horses for the Class of 2024. Nominations are due April 1, 2023.
All candidates for induction must meet the following qualifications for nomination: Horse Candidates. Horse must be deceased. Horse must be recognized through the American Quarter Horse Association breed registry. This may include an American Quarter Horse and/ or Thoroughbred as outlined within the current AQHA Rulebook. Horse must be outstanding for a multitude of years as a sire, dam, competitor or brought exceptional visibility to the American Quarter Horse breed.Any nominated horse foaled 50 years prior to the year of nomination may receive the designation of “Legend.”
Human Candidates: Person may be either living or deceased. Person is a member in good standing with the American Quarter Horse Association and/or has made a significant impact on AQHA and the industry. Person whose activities occurred during the existence of AQHA (i.e., post 1940). Person’s activities should be outstanding over a multitude of years and contributed to the advancement of the American Quarter Horse industry. Person has conducted themselves in a positive way that is becoming of the honor of Hall of Fame induction. Any nominated individual whose major influence ended 50 years prior to the year of nomination may receive the designation of “Legend.”
All nomination materials including a cover letter, completed nominee summary, letters of support and support information must be submitted online by April 1, 2023. Faxed and/or mailed applications are NOT eligible for consideration. Nominations previously submitted should be resubmitted through the online portal to comply with newly clarified criteria as outlined on the website.
US Equestrian Announces Team for 2022 FEI Endurance World Championship
US Equestrian is pleased to announce the athlete/horse combinations that will represent the United States at the 2022 FEI Endurance World Championship, scheduled to take place February 25, 2023, at Butheeb, United Arab Emirates. The following combinations will represent the U.S. Endurance Team and are listed in alphabetical order: Marissa Bartmann (La Plata, N.M.) and RGS Rollo Ze Monarch, a 2010 Arabian gelding owned by Jessica DiCamillo, Karen Binns-DiCamillo (Las Cruces, N.M.) and RGS Ragnar Ze Monarch, her own 2009 Arabian
gelding
Jessica DiCamillo (Las Cruces, N.M.) and I Remember September, her own 2009 Half-Arabian gelding, Jeremy Reynolds (Dunnellon, Fla.) and Treasured Moments, a 2010 Arabian mare owned by Jeremy and Heather Reynolds Cheryl Van Deusen (New Smyrna Beach, Fla.) and JG General,, her own 2012 Arabian gelding
The following combinations have been named as alternates to the U.S. Team for the 2022 FEI Endurance World Championship and are listed in ranked order: Karen BinnsDiCamillo and Just Believe, a 2008 Arabian Mare owned by Jessica DiCamillo, Jessica DiCamillo and Just Believe, her own 2008 Arabian mare Heather Davis (The Plains, Va.) and Shyrocco Rimbaud, her own 2006 Anglo Arabian gelding, Holly Corcoran (Stroudsburg, Pa.) and Lorienn, her own 2012 Arabian mare Competition Information
The FEI Endurance World Championship will consist of a 160-kilometer ride at the Butheeb International Endurance Village in El Khatim, Abu Dhabi. The ride will start at 5:45 a.m. local time on February 25, 2023.
Success in the sport of rodeo doesn't fall only on cowboys and cowgirls. Their horses play just as big of a factor when they enter the arena. The Nutrena Horse of the Year Awards, presented by the
AQHA Expands Support of PRCA
American Quarter Horse Association, provides recognition to ProRodeo's top timedevent horses, and AQHA is building on this recognition.
The expansion of the partnership includes the addition of the AQHA Horse of the Quarter Award.
Debuting in December, social media followers will select the Nutrena Horse of the Year Fan Favorite, presented by AQHA. The contest features the seven outstanding registered American Quarter Horses who were named 2022 Horse of the Year in each of the PRCA and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association’s timedevent categories. The winner – announced after January 1, 2023 – will earn $5,000 and the title of ProRodeo’s favorite timed-event horse.
“PRCA proudly works with over 36 brands across the country bringing each partner a unique ROI,” said PRCA Chief Executive Officer Tom Glause. “Join our elite group of brands and reach deep into the western lifestyle through our professional cowboys and their fans.”
The expansion of the partnership includes the addition of the AQHA Horse of the Quarter Award. Registered American Quarter Horses will be nominated each quarter by PRCA announcers. A committee will select the Horse of the Quarter, with the winner receiving a $1,000 gas card, courtesy of PRCA.
“The American Quarter Horse is well known for versatility and athleticism, two traits that lend well to rodeo,” said Karl Stressman, AQHA chief executive officer. “Our goal is to recognize talented American Quarter Horses and their accomplishments in the rodeo arena.”
and RCVS specialist veterinary clinical nutrition (equine); and Amanda Adams, PhD
Some horses with insulin dysregulation (DI) may be obese, but it is not necessarily a given.
Insulin dysregulation (ID) is the presence of one or more of the following: basal or fasting hyperinsulinemia, tissue insulin resistance, or exaggerated
A coordinated approach to equine insulin dysregulation
Nutritional management advice is not uniform
insulin response to ingested nonstructural carbohydrates (i.e. starch, simple sugars, and fructans, and/or exaggerated insulin response to intravenously provided simple sugars). Horses or ponies with ID are at increased risk of laminitis, and diet is central to managing any animal with ID.
Obesity, age, and breed type play a role in horses’ increased
risk of ID. Unfortunately, it is impossible to look at an individual horse/pony and state categorically they are or are not ID. Diagnostic testing is, therefore, essential, not only for identification, but also for monitoring purposes. Choosing the appropriate test, as well as regular monitoring, is often key.
Nutritional management advice is not uniform, especially because not all ID animals are obese and, therefore, the nutritional goal could actually be weight gain rather than weight loss. Not all horses and ponies show the same insulin response to a particular diet. The response will likely vary with many factors, including the time of the year.
Therefore, diagnosing and managing a horse/pony with ID can be challenging for many reasons, and a coordinated approach between the owner, treating veterinarian (and possibly specialist/referral veterinarian), the diagnostic laboratory, and the nutritional advisor can often be beneficial, especially in the more complex cases. Supporting the advice provided at all points is background peer-reviewed scientific research.
The treating veterinarian is central to this coordinated response. They need not only to recognize the potential for an individual animal to be ID, but they need to work with the owner/caregiver to develop a plan targeted to the individual animal—taking into account what feeds/forages are available, as well as any constraints around facilities/ equipment, etc. The owner/ caregiver must “buy” into the plan to understand the importance and relevance.
The treating veterinarian, or consultation with a specialist veterinarian, needs to choose the best test(s) for an individual based on current research and recommendations.4,5
Additionally, it is best to use an equine-specific laboratory that is knowledgeable in areas utilizing validated laboratory assays. The laboratory needs to provide guidance as to the interpretation of the laboratory results based on current recommendations backed by leading researchers.1,2 Having a nutritionist who is experienced in managing such cases within your support team and up to date on the latest published research is helpful in deciding what diet to feed, especially when things do not seem to go to plan.
Feeding and management
The following tips are helpful for improving insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin response to the diet3:
Remove cereal grains and sweet/complementary feeds that have a high/moderate nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) (i.e. starch, simple sugars, and fructans) content from the diet. Feed multiple small, low NSC providing meals/day. The maximum NSC intake level/ meal may depend on the individual6 and how low a postprandial insulin response is required.
Restricted or zero access to pasture may be required.
Feed a diet based on grass hay (or hay substitute) with a low NSC content (less than 10-12 percent DM), together with a fortified forage balancer.
Feed for maintenance of moderate Body Condition Score (4.5-5.5/9 BCS)—this may require a weight loss/weight gain or maintenance diet.
Increase free and/or structured exercise (if clinically/practically possible).
Feeding and management advice should be guided by clinical situation and laboratory results: monitoring is key.7
Youth Championship to Join the Run for a Million
The Run for a Million (TRFAM) has continued to grow immensely after its inception in 2019, and it will continue that growth by adding a Youth Championship to the event in 2023.
The Youth Championship will function similarly to the Non Pro and Rookie Championships by having a qualifying process. For the Youth Championship, a single qualifier will be held at the 2023 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel, with the Top 10, plus ties, to compete at the championship event on August 20, prior to the Million Dollar Competition.
“I really wanted to have some sort of youth program ever since we started this event,” said Amanda Brumley, Event Producer and Vice President of The Run For A Million. “The event is such a huge production, having to cancel in 2020, not totally sure we could have it in 2021, made the decision-making process difficult. Last year we were more prepared in advance, knowing it wouldn’t get canceled so we added so much, and the train is running full steam forward!”
Each year the event has added additional pieces to its lineup to encourage involvement from all levels of competition, and now across three disciplines, including reining, cutting, and reined cow horse. This year the $200,000 Cutting Horse Challenge will be the feature performance Thursday evening with the Youth Cutting Championship opening. The $200,000 Cow Horse Fence Challenge set for Friday evening will have their Youth Championship as an opener, and the Youth Reining Championship will compete Saturday morning,” Brumley said.
There will be no prize money for the Youth Championship, but there will be big prizes, big publicity, and events to make the youth feel part of the entire production, according to Brumley. “We want the youth competitors to feel special before and during the event and have an all-around great experience,” she said. “Saturday, there is no competition scheduled during the day, so it is a great opportunity for the youth reiners to compete. We are planning special youth activities during The Run For A Million, including all the Youth Championship competitors, reining, reined cow horse, and cutting to get together for some fun. We want it to be a goal for them to want to qualify and participate in this event each year. Finally, all the planets and stars aligned for this!”
It is encouraged to plan your trip in advance as tickets and rooms at the host hotel often sell out early. For more information about The Run for a Million, visit trfam.com.
FAQs - Only one Youth Reining Championship qualifier will be held in 2023. - Qualifier runs in conjunction with the NRHA Derby Youth divisions Saturday, June 24, concurrent with the Unrestricted Youth class. - The top ten riders, plus ties, from the NRHA Derby qualifier will advance to the RFAM Youth Championship Saturday, August 20, in Las Vegas. - There is a $250 qualifier fee to enter.The Unrestricted Youth Class is open to all youth members to enter on any horse, without ownership restrictions, even one not owned by them or their family (similar to the Youth 10 & Under Short Stirrup, Rookie, and Green Reiner classes). - Qualified riders have to agree to participate at TRFAM or management will jump down to the next rider in the results. ssJust like TRFAM Non Pro and Rookie, qualified riders are based on the rider, not the horse.
The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), Daily Racing Form, and the National Turf Writers and Broadcasters (NTWAB) announced Jan. 26 that Flightline, who captivated Thoroughbred racing fans with three dominating performances in New York, California, and Kentucky last year, was named the 2022 Horse of the Year at the conclusion of the 52nd Annual Eclipse Awards ceremony, presented by John Deere, Keeneland, and The Jockey Club, at The Breakers Palm Beach.
The Eclipse Awards, honoring excellence in North American Thoroughbred
No Surprises Here: Flightline Crowned 2022 Horse Of The Year At Eclipse Awards
racing, are voted on by the NTRA, consisting of member racetrack racing officials and Equibase field personnel, Daily Racing Form (DRF), and the National Turf Writers and Broadcasters.
Owned by Hronis Racing LLC, Siena Farm LLC, Summer Wind Equine LLC, West Point Thoroughbreds, and Woodford Racing, LLC, and trained by John Sadler, Flightline received 239 out of a possible 246 first-place votes for Horse of the Year.
As a 4-year-old, Flightline, a son of Tapit out of Feathered by Indian Charlie, won the Hill 'N' Dale Metropolitan Handicap (G1) at Belmont Park, the TVG Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar by an astounding 19 ¼ lengths, and capped off his career by winning the
Longines Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) at Keeneland in November by a stakes record 8 ¼ lengths.
Flightline, who won all six of his career starts, was also voted Champion Older Dirt Male.
NCHA Announces 2023 Annual Meeting To Be Held
In Las Vegas
The 2023 National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA)’s Annual Meeting will take place June 23 – 25,
2023, at South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The NCHA Annual Meeting is open to all NCHA members, and all members are encouraged to attend. This Annual Meeting will consist of general membership, board of director, and standing committee meetings. A complete event schedule will be forthcoming.
In addition to the membership meetings, the Hall of Fame Gala and Awards Ceremony will take place honoring the 2023 NCHA Members Hall of Fame inductees, the 2022 NCHA Open Riders, Non-Pro Riders, and Horse Hall of Fame inductees, along with additional NCHA special awards.
There is no registration fee for members to attend the 2023 NCHA Annual Meeting, but members will need to fill out a registration form. This form is available here. Additionally, a hotel room block will be available for members to reserve their hotel accommodations at South Point in the coming weeks.
More information on the 2023 NCHA Annual Meeting will be forthcoming at nchacutting. com. We look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas this summer!
ARIZONA WINTER CIRCUIT 2023 PRIZE LIST NOW AVAILABLE
By Tori BilasThe Arizona Winter Circuit (AWC) is set to return to the Pima County Fairgrounds in its third season under the management of Apex Equestrian, and the prize list is now available at arizonawintercircuit.com. Entries are now open and can be submitted online via ShowGrounds Live.
AWC will feature four weeks of Level 3 jumpers and National-rated hunters, awarding national points towards year-end qualifications and awards, as well as an individualized showing experience focused on the exhibitor experience.
The hunter/jumper circuit
spans four consecutive weeks in February and March 2023.
The individual ‘A’ show dates are as follows: February 8-12, 2023: Kachina Classic February 15-19, 2023: Tucson Winter Classic, February 22-26, 2023: Sahuaro Classic, March 1-5, 2023: Arizona Winter Festival
The Pima County Fairgrounds have undergone significant improvements to elevate the competitor experience. Improvements include enhanced footing in show rings, new drag equipment, leveled and compacted stalls, and a remodeled horse show office. With a scoreboard providing live scoring in the Grand Prix ring, as well as a new live stream of our feature classes, including USHJA National Hunter Derbies and Grand Prixs, AWC aims to foster the ‘A’-rated experience in Tucson for years to come.
Highlights of the Arizona Winter Circuit 2023 include: ‘A’-rated/National Hunter points and prize money. Weekly $3,500 USHJA National Hunter Derby Weekly $15,000 Grand Prix, Quality jumps and highlyrespected udges. Fun, familyoriented, low-key atmosphere. Social events for exhibitors every week