Teton Ridge Expands Live Programming on FOX, FS1, and FS2 for Flagship Rodeo Events
12th Annual “The American Rodeo Championship Weekend” to be Held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas
April 11-12, 2025
Building on its success of “The American Rodeo Championship Weekend” in March 2024, which drew over 40,000 fans in attendance and 5.7 million viewers across digital and television platforms, Teton Ridge, the premier Western sports, media and entertainment company, is announcing expanded programming and live rodeo broadcasts on FOX Sports. This landmark announcement positions Teton Ridge as a leading force in producing the most comprehensive and extensive content in the Western sports industry.
TOP ATHLETES WILL VIE FOR INDIVIDUAL AND TEAM STAKES FROM A $1 MILLION PRIZE POOL
“Our mission at Teton Ridge is to build upon the foundation of these time-honored sports and grow their audience and impact on a much wider and global scale,” said Deirdre Lester, Chief Executive Officer of Teton Ridge. “Accelerating our multi-year agreement with FOX Sports means we can bring even greater viewing opportunities to our fans in real-time. Since acquiring The American Rodeo in late 2021, Teton Ridge has been focused on elevating the industry and showcasing the immense talents in Western and performance sports.”
The 12th Annual ‘The American Rodeo Championship Weekend,’ owned and produced by Teton Ridge, returns to the home of the Texas Rangers, Globe Life Field, on April 11-12, 2025, moving from its traditional early March dates. The highly anticipated weekend, will be televised live, exclusively across the FOX Sports family of networks, with the Championship Round aired live on FOX.
The expanded programming schedule, inclusive of The American Rodeo Regional Finals, which for the first time will be televised live, and new Contender events, will be announced in the coming months.
The American Rodeo features competitors in all eight traditional rodeo disciplines. Fans can root for the underdog “Contenders” chasing a cash bonus and the professional athletes chasing their championship crown. This past year marked a record breaking payout of $4.6 million to Western sports athletes.
Ticketing information for The American Rodeo 2025, headlining music talent lineup, and ticket on-sale dates for April 11-12, 2025, will be announced later in 2024. Fans can subscribe to Teton Ridge Plus for alerts, advance ticketing offers, and exclusive presales. For more information, visit www.americanrodeo.com.
Details about The American Performance Horseman 2025 will be unveiled in the coming weeks. Following its remarkable debut in 2023, this event seamlessly blends history and competition to celebrate the past, present, and future of Western performance horse sports. Showcasing the dynamic sports of Reining, Reined Cow Horse, and Cutting, top athletes will vie for individual and team stakes from a $1 million prize pool.
Deirdre Lester takes the Reins at Teton Ridge
Deirdre Lester is the CEO of Teton Ridge, an omnichannel media and entertainment company focused on the American West. She oversees the Sports, Media, Entertainment, Lifestyle, and Equine divisions. Before Teton Ridge, Deirdre was CEO of Outsider, a lifestyle and media company celebrating the American outdoors. At Barstool Sports, she served as CRO, significantly increasing revenue through strategic partnerships in advertising, sponsorship, and licensing. With 25 years in media sales and management, she is adept in competitive markets and emerging technologies, particularly in social and mobile media. Her experience includes roles at CNET, ESPN, Rivals.com, Y! Sports, and MLBAM, where she honed her strategic selling and negotiating skills. Deirdre excels in revenue growth, team development, and long-lasting partnerships, with a passion for interactive media and digital sports for over a decade.
Deirdre Lester is the CEO of Teton Ridge
Taylor Sheridan’s The Run For a Million Event
The western performance horse community is buzzing with excitement as four of Arizona’s finest horsemen have qualified for the prestigious The Run For a Million event. Set to take place this August at the South Point Casino in Las Vegas, this event is the pinnacle of reining and cow horse competitions, drawing the best riders from around the globe. Among the elite competitors are Arizona’s own Andrea Fapanni, Craig Schmersal, Gabriel Borgess, and Shadd Parkinson.
Every August, the South Point Casino in Las Vegas hosts Taylor Sheridan's highly anticipated event, The Run For a Million. This prestigious competition, which started in 2019, has quickly become the richest and one of the most thrilling events in the world of reining, cow horse, and cutting disciplines.
Event Overview
Dates: August 12-17, 2024
Venue: South Point Arena and Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV
Key Features
1. Million Dollar Reining Competition: The highlight of the event, where sixteen top riders compete for a purse of $1,000,000 (The Run For A Million).
2. Cow Horse and Cutting Challenges: These events showcase the athleticism and skill of both horse and rider in high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled competitions (The Run For A Million).
3. Additional Competitions: Includes the Open Shoot Out, Youth Reining Challenge, Rookie Challenges, Non-Pro and Amateur Challenges, and the Cowboy Heritage Ranch Challenge Entertainment and Performances
In addition to the intense competitions, The Run For a Million also features world-class entertainment. Attendees can enjoy performances from top country music artists in the Bit N Spur Saloon, located in the South Point Grand Ballroom. This year’s lineup includes Stephen Wilson Jr., Jackson Dean, and Grammy Awardwinner Lainey Wilson.
Associated TV Show
The event also serves as the climax for Paramount Network’s unscripted reality show, "The Last Cowboy," which follows the journey of cowboys and cowgirls training for this prestigious competition. The show has significantly increased the visibility and popularity of western performance horse sports.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for the event start at $35. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed, ensuring that fans worldwide can experience the excitement.
Significance
The Run For a Million is not just a competition; it is a celebration of the western lifestyle and equine sports. It brings together the best horses and riders from around the world, offering them a platform to showcase their skills on a global stage. Taylor Sheridan's vision
August 12-17, 2024
for the event has rejuvenated interest in ranching traditions and the cowboy way of life, making it a must-see event for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Experience All That South Point Casino Has to Offer During The Run For a Million Event
While attending Taylor Sheridan's The Run For a Million at the South Point Casino in Las Vegas, there's a wealth of activities and amenities to enjoy beyond the event itself. South Point Casino is a comprehensive entertainment venue offering a variety of experiences for all visitors.
Casino and Gaming
Casino Floor:
• Gaming: South Point Casino boasts a spacious gaming floor with over 2,200 slot and video poker machines, 60 table games, a separate poker room, and a state-of-the-art bingo hall.
• Race and Sports Book: Enjoy the excitement of betting on your favorite sports with their expansive race and sports book, featuring over 300 seats, a wall of big-screen TVs, and 24-hour service.
Dining Options
Restaurants:
• Michael's Gourmet Room: Renowned for its fine dining experience, Michael’s offers a classic gourmet menu in an elegant setting.
• Steak ‘n Shake: For a more casual dining option, enjoy delicious burgers and hand-dipped milkshakes.
• Buffet and Café: The Garden Buffet provides a wide array of dishes from around the world, while the Coronado Café offers 24/7 dining with a variety of menu options.
Entertainment and Leisure
Shows and Concerts:
• Showroom: The 400-seat showroom hosts a variety of entertainment, including live music, comedy shows, and special events.
• Bowling: The South Point Bowling Center features 64 lanes and is a great place for family fun or competitive play.
Movie Theater:
• Cinemark Theater: Enjoy the latest blockbusters in the 16-screen movie theater, complete with luxury loungers and the latest in sound and projection technology.
Equestrian Center
South Point Arena and Equestrian Center:
•Equestrian Events: The facility is renowned for hosting major equestrian events, including The Run For a Million, with top-tier amenities for both horses and riders.
• Rodeo: Throughout the year, the center hosts a variety of rodeo events, bringing the excitement of the sport to spectators.
Health and Wellness
Spa and Fitness:
• Costa del Sur Spa: Indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation with a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments.
• Fitness Center: Keep up with your workout routine at the fully equipped fitness center, available to all hotel guests.
Family-Friendly Activities
Kids' Time:
• Time Out Arcade: The arcade offers a range of games for kids and teens, providing a fun diversion for younger visitors.
Taylor Sheridan
Andrea Fapanni
$7 MILLION DOLLAR
RIDER-3X NRHA
FUTURITY CHAMPION
Born and raised in Italy, Andrea Fappani followed his dream of becoming one of the all-time leading trainers in Reining-world wide. His focus and passion for excellence not only made him the youngest NRHA Million Dollar Rider, but have put him at the top of the charts as a teacher, clinician and advocate of pursuing exceptional horsemanship. His Reining DVD’s have outsold all others- designed and produced to teach the details of training Reining horses as well as to maintain them at a high level for optimum performance in the show pen. It was Andrea’s desire and commitment to excel as a student of horsemanship that allowed him to develop such early success in his career.
Craig Schmersal
$5 MILLION DOLLAR
RIDER-3X NRHA
FUTURITY CHAMPION
Born and raised in Ohio, Craig Schmersal followed his passion for horses to become the 3rd all-time leading rider in the National Reining Horse Association. Craig, a 5-milliondollar money earner, is the only Level 4 Open champion of all five major events: The Run for a Million, The NRHA Futurity, The NRHA Derby, The National Reining Breeders Classic, and The Quarter Horse Congress. Craig was a multiple-time gold and silver medalist for Team USA at the World Equestrian Games in 2002, 2006, and 2010. Craig was also named the 2019 Horseman of the Year.
Gabriel Borges
Gabriel Borges’ fascination, natural talent and passion for horses began as a young boy. His dedication to becoming an accomplished horseman developed into a lifelong adventure taking him from Porto Alegre, Brazil to his current home in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Gabriel earned respect and rewards along the way, constantly gathering knowledge and experience from some of the very best in the Equine Industry. As a Level 4 Open competitor, Gabriel’s accomplishments are numerous, his most current show successes include 2021 NRBC L4 Top Ten Finalist in Texas, L4 Open Futurity 3rd place at The Invitational 2021 in Virginia and he captured 3rd place in the L4 Open Derby at the 2021 Best of the West in Arizona.
Shadd Parkinson
Shadd Parkinson was born in Missoula, Montana. Growing up, he competed in various disciplines including halter and western pleasure. Eventually he realized his love for reining and cow horse events. Shadd began to train professionally in 2001.
RECENT CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:
2024 Run For A Million Qualifier
2024 NRCHA Western Derby Open Bridle Spectacular Champion
2024 NRCHA Western Derby Open Super Spectacular Champion
2023 NRCHA Western Derby Open Super Spectacular Champion
2022 NSHA Int. Open Futurity Champion
2021 NRCHA Western Derby Int. Open Bridle Spectacular Champion
“The Fearless One” Frank Newsom
2024 recipient of Jim Shoulders Lifetime Achievement Award
PUEBLO, Colo. – Nearly 30 years ago, a young bullfighter named Frank Newsom was working a pro rodeo in Crossett, Arkansas, for the legendary Jim Shoulders.
Shoulders, a 16-time PRCA World Champion in the all-around, bull riding and bareback riding, was nearing 70 years old, but he was still competitive enough to get into the arena himself.
“Every bucking bull that might be a little bit mean, he would tell them to shut the gate and let us fight ‘em,” Newsom said. “And he would be on horseback. I remember being locked up tight, fighting these bulls, and you could hear him right behind you, just hear him going, ‘Yeah, man! There you go! Take him to the barrel!’ He wasn’t 15 feet behind us on horseback.
“He knew what it took to put on a show, and he knew what it took to compete, even at his age, when I was around him. That fire never went out. He still had that fire in him, and it was just really cool to be around him.”
Shoulders passed away in 2007 at age 79, and Newsom would go on to have one of the most storied careers in bullfighting history, fighting at the PBR World Finals 20 times before retiring in 2022.
This year, Newsom will receive the Jim Shoulders Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes those who, throughout their lives and professional careers, have significantly contributed to the advancement of the sport of bull riding and rodeo.
The 2024 Heroes & Legends Ceremony will be held on Thursday, July 11, at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
“I feel really honored to be getting it,” Newsom said. “It’s hard to put it into words because it seems like, when you say it, it just ain’t big enough. I just think a lot of Jim Shoulders. I got to be around him before he died, work under him as a bullfighter, and he was a great man and a competitor. He loved seeing good bullfighting and loved seeing guys compete
Jim Shoulders was a giant in and out of the arena, winning 16 world titles and becoming a household name in the process.
A city kid with no livestock background, Shoudlers’ career began in 1942 at the young age of 14, when he witnessed and entered his first rodeo. In his first outing, Shoulders won the bull riding competition in Oilton, Oklahoma, along with $18. Shoulders continued his professional career as the winningest cowboy of all time in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) where he won 16 world championships. This included the world allaround rodeo cowboy championship five times (1949, 1956-1959), world champion bareback rider title four times (1950, 1956-1958) and world champion bull rider title seven times (1951, 1954-1959).
and do good and putting on a good show for the crowd. He was quite the guy. And it’s a big deal just to get recognized for your hard work, too.”
Newsom grew up in Oklahoma, working on ranches with his dad and spending all his time around cattle and cowboys. They didn’t get to rodeo much because they were always working, but that all changed when his dad got a job for a man who rode bulls. They did labor around the ranch but bucked bulls in the evenings, and Newsom would give it a go.
“Some of the older guys that were working with us rode bulls, and we would take turns,” he said. “I was actually trying to ride them. I wasn’t afraid of them. I had a lot of try. I just wasn’t good at it. And we would take turns saving each other, and man, I just knew that was my spot. I had a lot of talent at it. So that’s kind of what I started focusing on.”
Injuries put an end to his rodeo career in 1970, and he retired to his ranch in Oklahoma with his wife Sharon where together they raised four children. While Shoulders hung up his spurs, he remained connected to the industry as a stock contractor, while also running a rodeo school. Shoulders quickly became a celebrity outside of the Western world while doing promotional work for brands like Wrangler, who had signed him in 1948, and Justin Boots, in addition to appearing on television for Miller Lite beer alongside baseball legend Billy Martin. He was inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1979 and today is the only cowboy ever to be inducted into the Madison Square Garden Hall of Fame. Shoulders was also an avid supporter of the PBR over the years, lending his knowledge and experience to the organization. In 2007, Shoulders passed away at the age of 79. His 58-year partnership with Wrangler was the longest sports licensing endorsement in the history of sports, and his legacy is honored with the aforementioned Jim Shoulders Lifetime Achievement Award.
Frank Newsom
The late Jim Shoulders
Superman Stetson Wright Eight-time World Champion Battles Injury to Get Back on the Rodeo Circuit
Eight-time world champion Stetson Wright entered last year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo with a six-figure lead in the all-around world standings but set his sights on capturing a triple crown.
Wright burst onto the PRORODEO scene in 2019 becoming the first Resistol Rookie to win an all-around world championship.
Since then, he’s won five straight all-around titles (2019-23), two bull-riding championships (2020, 2022) and a saddle bronc title (2021).
The 24-year-old from Beaver, Utah’s, run of dominance garnered him the nickname ‘Superman.’
But in Round 2 of last year’s Finals, Wright bowed out of the competition with a hamstring injury. Three days later, he underwent surgery, and for the last six months, he’s been rehabbing to get back in rodeo shape.
“I got the nickname Superman, and everybody knows that you’re not invincible. But after five years of running away with everything, I’m not going to lie, I started to believe I might have a little bit of Superman in me,” Wright told the ProRodeo Sports News during World Champion Media Day on June 4.
“That was a tough pill to swallow. I’m just like everybody else, and I can get hurt.”
After his surgery, doctors ordered Wright to stay in bed for six weeks before moving him to crutches for 12 weeks.
Then he started to rehab and train to start gearing up for his return to rodeo.
“Now I’m at the point of breaking scar tissue, getting my full range of motion back and getting back in the saddle,” Wright said. “I’ve been on a bull and a horse. Everything is looking up at this point, and we’re set to return here in maybe a week or two.
“On paper, everything is looking good, and hopefully, well not hopefully, we will be back (in Las Vegas) in December.”
Wright said missing his shot at a triple-crown stung but that there was too much to be grateful for to dwell on disappointment. “Yeah, I had my days where I was like, ‘Why would this happen to me?’,” he recalled. “But it was all pretty short-lived. As soon as I went into surgery and came out, all I could think about was a triple
crown in 2024.”
Until this past season, Wright remained relatively healthy in his rodeo career.
His run of success and perceived invincibility translated into confidence in the arena but led to disappointment this past December.
“It’s good to have the mindset that you can’t because it does make you pretty tough to beat when feel like you have the upper hand,” he said. “That was a tough pill to swallow when Round 2 came, and I realized that the triple crown wasn’t in the cards that year. I just watched everything slip away round by round after that.”
Between bull riding and saddle bronc riding, Wright got used to hopping on multiple stock per day, but the hamstring injury hampered him in Las Vegas.
“You guys have seen it, I can get on four, five or six in a day and be fine,” Wright said. “When I got off that bull I was fatigued. I had lost all of my rodeo muscles.”
The months of sitting around and rehab are now in Wright’s rear-view mirror. He said as of right now he’s eyeing late June to climb back on at PRCA rodeos.
“There are many things you can change, but the great part of life is that you never know what tomorrow brings,” Wright said. “I’m just having fun, and we’re about back to me being able to do what I love, and I’m pretty excited about it.”
Art of the Cowgirl
Moving to Wickenburg, Arizona in February
The seventh annual Art of the Cowgirl (AOTC) gathering will take place February 25-March 1, 2025, at Rancho Rio in Wickenburg, Arizona. Wickenburg has long been known as one of the most authentic Western towns in the U.S. Since 2012 Rancho Rio has been producing events in the heart of Wickenburg every week from October through May.
“I have been watching the Art of the Cowgirl for the past six years as it has grown and become just a fantastic event,” said Rancho Rio founder Ty Yost. “We are so excited to bring the Art of the Cowgirl to Rancho Rio, not just for us, but for the entire town and community of Wickenburg.”
unites emerging female artisans in traditional trades such as silversmithing, leathercraft, boot making, horse training and fine art with masters in those fields. The gathering helps to facilitate these partnerships, which empower and educate women while honoring Western heritage.
“We really focus on creating a hands-on experience. We encourage everyone to come take it all in and support our artists,” says Pate. “The vibe of Art of the Cowgirl is so welcoming, whether you’ve been to a past event, or this will be your first. It’s a place to experience the true cowgirl spirit and connect with Western culture and the people who create it.”
Just a short drive from Phoenix, Wickenburg’s warm Western hospitality awaits visitors. The 2025 AOTC event will include hands-on workshops, horsemanship demonstrations, artist and maker presentations, cowgirl musicians, panel discussions, and a horse sale. In the arena, skilled horsewomen will compete in ranch rodeo, breakaway roping, team roping and more. Throughout the weekend, a curated trade show will showcase original art, apparel, gear, gifts, and accessories made by cowgirl artisans.
“We are so excited to move this event to a town like Wickenburg and a place like Rancho Rio,” said Mesa Pate, AOTC Horse Sale and Competition Director. “The town embodies everything Art of the Cowgirl celebrates.”
At the heart of Art of the Cowgirl is its fellowship program, which
Please join us for Art of the Cowgirl in Wickenburg, Arizona, as we celebrate, gather, and connect Western women around horses and Western art. Applications will open this summer for the trade show. Event tickets go on sale September 1. Watch for updates on ticket sales, host hotels and a schedule of events at www.ArtoftheCowgirl.com, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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About Art of the Cowgirl: Cowgirls are as diverse as the boots they wear and the horses they ride. Some make their living horseback, while others go from the boardroom to the barn. Cowgirl artists express their takes on the West through a variety of mediums, including paint, clay, silver, leather, rawhide, poetry and music. Art of the Cowgirl celebrates and perpetuates the timeless talents of Western women through educational fellowships, competitions, horse sales, and special events. To learn more visit www.ArtoftheCowgirl.com.
About Rancho Rio: Sitting on 55 acres just minutes from downtown Wickenburg, Rancho Rio is one of Arizona’s premier multi-use facilities. Each year the location hosts a multitude of equine events, gives visitors and snowbirds a place to spend the winter and serves as a trailhead for horseback rides through the scenic miles of the Hassayampa Riverbed. For more information visit www.RanchoRioAZ.com.
$264+ Million Keeps The National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas through 2035
The National Finals Rodeo has a home in Las Vegas for the next 12 years and the contract is a financial boon with more than a quarter of a billion dollars committed to the contestants and stock contractors through 2035.
Las Vegas Events and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association jointly announced June 17, the financial details of the agreement that will keep the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas through 2035. Over the term of the contract, the total payment to the contestants and stock contractors will be $264,323,473.
COLE REINER 92-POINT RIDE IN FINALS WINS DARBY XTREME BAREBACK
Bareback rider Cole Reiner has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo four times and finished as high as fifth in the PRCA | RAM World Standings.
But he’d never recorded a 92-point ride, until Sunday during Darby (Mont.) Xtreme Bareback.
The 25-year-old from Buffalo, Wyo., did enough to advance out of the sectional round and drew Pickett Pro Rodeo’s Night Crawler, the 2023 Pendleton Whisky Let ‘er Buck Bareback Horse of the Year in the finals.
Reiner made the most of his opportunity on the familiar bucking horse with a 92-point ride to claim the top spot and $13,335 at Richard Cromwell Memorial Rodeo Grounds.
“I could’ve been at 93 (points) and beaten Kaycee (Feild) on her but no big deal,” Reiner joked. “Anytime you’re at 90 it’s a ride that you’ll remember. But to go 92 in that arena where there have been some really huge scores and to be in there with the rest of them is something you’ll remember. And that’s my highest score so far.”
Reiner finished fourth in section three with an 87.5-point ride to qualify for the finals.
Reiner has reached the short round every time he’s competed in Darby, but knew he had a shot to finish with a buckle when he drew Night Crawler. He won the short-go at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo on the same horse in February.
“That horse is great but you have to do your job too,” Reiner said. “I was definitely a lot more calm during the short round than
the first round. I was keeping everything calm, cool and together. I was a little less excited and a little more focused.”
Reiner bumped up to 12th in the world standings with $48,504 after his five-figure payday in the Treasure State.
He said the win moved him back into the mix for a fifth-straight trip to Las Vegas and set him up nicely ahead of the summer run.
“Anytime you win a dollar it helps but when you can win $10,000 or $13,000 at a time it takes a little bit of pressure off in the summer time,” Reiner said. “We get to pick and choose our rodeos anyway but this really helps entering rodeos and going to get on horses I want to get on.”
Kade Berry finished second in the event with a 91.5-point ride in the finals and an 88.5-point ride in section three to earn $11,175.
R.C. Landingham finished third with a 91-point ride in the short-go and an 86.5-point ride in section two to earn $7,106.
“Kade Berry went out (in the finals) and made a really good ride for a 91.5. Then R.C. Landingham and Kennan Hayes came out in the 90s also,” Reiner said. “So I still had to show off out there to beat those guys.”
Reiner planed to compete in a few more rodeos in June, including the Elizabeth (Colo.) Stampede, before hitting the ground running starting at the Reno (Nev.) Rodeo, June 20-29.
“I’ll go to Elizabeth because it’s one of my favorite little circuit rodeos,” he said. “Summit Pro Rodeo hosts its and I’ve been getting on their horses since I started. It’s always one that I like to go to and I’ve had really good luck there before. Then we’ll start easing our way toward Reno.”
Beloved ring steward
Ron McMillian dies
By Jessica Hein , , /
A familiar face at horse shows around the country, longtime ring steward Ron McMillian of Collinsville, Oklahoma, has died.
A retired laboratory technician, Ron was a fixture in the horse industry for more than 50 years. He was a breeder and exhibitor, but perhaps was best known for his role as a ring steward at championship events around the country. He was part of the APHA World Championship Show ring stewarding team since 1999. Other world championship ring-stewarding credentials on Ron’s resume included events for the American Quarter Horse Association, National
Snaffle Bit Association, Pinto Horse Association of America, Buckskin Registry of America, American Miniature Horse Association, Appaloosa Horse Club and Palomino Horse Breeders of America.
Remembering Ron McMillian
Exhibitors and staff fondly remember Ron’s beaming smile and kind words to everyone he encountered. In addition to his presence in the arena at shows, Ron was a natural teacher and frequently assisted with ring-steward and scribe education for APHA and at the Color Breed Council.
“Ron was like an anchor that holds the ship safe in the bay. You could always count on him and all the judges knew he would never let them down,” APHA Director of Judges & Professional Horseman Sandy Jirkovsky said. He was kind, good-hearted and always professional. God must be planning a huge horse show in Heaven and needed the best of ring stewards, so he called Ron to come help.”
Ron was a lifetime APHA member and served on the Judges and Professional Horsemen Advisory Committees. He was honored by APHA with the 2018 Don Manuello Ring Steward Award. Ron was inducted into the Pinto association’s Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association Hall of Fame in 2022.
Reprinting all or part of this news release is permitted. Please credit the Paint Horse Journal and provide a link to apha.com.
Quanta Services Becomes an Official NRCHA Partner
The National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) welcomes Quanta Services as an official partner. Quanta Services is the leading specialty contractor, with the largest skilled labor force in North America, delivering comprehensive infrastructure solutions for utilities, communications, renewables and energy industries. Quanta Services’ mission is to empower people to build better lives for themselves and their communities through work in the trades.
“Quanta’s team members are our largest asset,” said Sadie Boren, Quanta Services Marketing Specialist. “Having a strong team is critical to being able to tackle the most complex infrastructure challenges in the world. We operate in a regional structure to seamlessly and efficiently marshal our global resources in the local interest of our customers. With a world-class training network and industry-leading safety standards, we empower our people to get the job done better and safer than anyone. The unique expertise and capabilities of every one of our companies combine to make Quanta the first choice for infrastructure solutions that power modern life.”
Quanta Services’ sponsorship with NRCHA pairs them with MARS Equestrian™ as the presenters of the cow horse classes at the National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA) Finals,
taking place July 14–20, 2024, in Rock Springs, Wyoming.
“Our cow horse classes during the NHSRA Finals are crucial to our effort to grow reined cow horse and expose new audiences to our sport,” shared NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “Quanta Services’ support of this effort demonstrates their commitment to growing our sport while also perpetuating their mission to present career opportunities in the trades to young people.”
Quanta Services shares NRCHA’s dedication to the Western way of life, developing dedicated, hardworking people with a passion for what they do. By exposing NRCHA members to opportunities in the trades, more people know what’s available for their future.
“We often joke that Quanta is the biggest company you’ve never heard of,” Boren said with a laugh. “Through our partnership with NRCHA, we hope to expose and educate more individuals about the career opportunities available at Quanta Services. In turn, we’re also excited about aligning with the organization to help promote the fastest-growing equine sport.”
Learn more about Quanta Services at quantaservices.com and be sure to visit with them at NRCHA premier events.
New Handheld Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy device for Horse
Curative Sound launches its new product, CSPro VET
The CS-Pro VET is a new extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) device designed for veterinary medicine by Curative Sound, a medical technology company specializing in precise, high-pressure acoustic shock wave products.
The CS-Pro VET is the world’s first ultra-portable focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy (f-ESWT) device and will therefore help innovate the current treatment options for equine and companion animal patients. according to
Curative Sound, the CSPro VET can be used for several conditions including orthopedic injuries or diseases and chronic pain.
With its compact design, powerful performance, and incredible longevity, we believe the CS-Pro VET will empower veterinarians to deliver superior care to their patients, ultimately improving outcomes and enhancing quality of life.”:
The device weighs 14 ounces and is battery powered, making it easily portable around the clinic or from place to place.
The CS-Pro VET has focal depths of 2 mm, 5 mm, 10mm, 20 mm, and 30 mm and pressure up to 80 MPa.
The National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Cow Horse Incentive has opened stallion subscriptions.
The program, launched earlier this spring, advances the previous Subscribed Stallion Program to bring larger payouts and more recognition to the sport of reined cow horse.
“We are thrilled to launch
NRCHA Cow Horse Incentive Opens Stallion Subscriptions
this incentive that aims to accelerate the recognition and popularity of our sport. This innovative program is designed to enhance our athletes’ earnings and engage and inspire the breeders of the next generation of reined cow horses,” Patty Tiberg, NRCHA cow horse incentive and marketing manager, said.
“We already have numerous stallions subscribed to this program, and we are confident it will help set new standards for
breeding reined cow horses.”
Beginning in 2025, horses competing in the limited-age event at the Stallion Stakes sired by a subscribed stallion and nominated for the NRCHA Cow Horse Incentive will be eligible for the increased payouts. The annual stallion subscription fee is one times the published stud fee with a $1,500 minimum per year. Subscribers can choose to subscribe a stallion for a oneyear or five-year term.
If a stallion was enrolled in the former Subscribed Stallion Program, they are now recognized as Legacy Stallion Subscribers. They will receive a credit to apply for each subscribed year between 2020 and 2025. The credit will be incrementally applied to the new incentive annually at the rate of up to $1,000 annually.
“This marks the beginning of a transformative journey for our sport. In the coming weeks, we will be opening nominations
for offspring, providing a unique opportunity for breeders and owners to stay connected with them throughout their career in the show pen,” Tiberg said.
Nominations for offspring will open in early July. NRCHA is offering a one-time nomination of $275 for all horses born in 2019 through 2024, due by November 15, 2024. The nomination rates will resume the standard pay structure following the November deadline. Horses sired by a Legacy Stallion Subscriber will still be eligible to compete in the limited-aged event at the 2025 Stallion Stakes in their own division for the purse money from the former program. Only nominated offspring sired by a subscribed stallion will be eligible for the new Cow Horse Incentive purse.
For more information on the program, to subscribe to a stallion, or to view a list of currently subscribed stallions, visit nrcha.com/nrcha-incentiveprogram.
2024 NCHA GREAT AMERICAN INSURANCE GROUP SUMMER CUTTING SPECTACULAR
The 2024 NCHA Great American Insurance Group Summer Cutting Spectacular will be held from July 13 to August 3 at Will Rogers in Fort Worth, Texas.
FORT WORTH – Join the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) in Fort Worth, Texas, for the third leg in our Triple Crown events! The 2024 NCHA Great American Insurance Group Summer Cutting Spectacular will take place at the historic Will Rogers Memorial Complex in Fort Worth, Texas.
Event Details:
July 13 – August 3, 2024, competition begins at 8 A.M. each day.
Location: Will Rogers Memorial Complex, Fort Worth, Texas.
days. Please note dogs are prohibited in the coliseum. Schedule: The full schedule, including each day’s working order, is on the NCHA website (https://www.nchacutting.com/events/summer-spectacular).
Super Stakes History: The Summer Spectacular is held in July. It is the final leg of the NCHA Triple Crown of Cutting and is contested over 20 days. It features the NCHA Derby for 4-year-olds and the NCHA Classic Challenge for 5/6-year-olds and offers a purse of nearly $3 million. The Summer Cutting Spectacular is known as the third jewel in the NCHA Triple Crown. Running concurrently with the Summer Spectacular is the Youth World Finals, along with the NCHA Military Cutting Challenge.
Highlight: The Best of the West Tradeshow will be held in the Amon Carter Exhibit Hall, featuring boutiques, farm equipment, and more! The NCHA dog race is open for you to enter your furry friends on July 18th. Youth members will compete for championship titles and scholarships at the NYCHA Holy Cow Performance Horses World Finals and NCHA Foundation Scholarship Cutting. August 3rd will feature the second annual NCHA Military Cutting Competition, where select military members will learn to ride a cutting horse and then compete in the evening.
Free Admission: The NCHA Great American Insurance Group Summer Cutting Spectacular is free to the public, including finals
What is cutting?
The term cutting refers to the act of separating one cow from a herd of cattle. The sport of cutting involves a horse, a rider, and a herd of cattle.
Cattle are herd animals. One cow will instinctively try to return to the group. Knowing that a horse and rider team will quietly ride into the herd, select and “cut” off, or separate, one cow from the group (letting the unpicked cows return to the herd behind) and then prevent that cow from rejoining the herd - until they decide to let it go. Keeping the cow separated requires incredible intelligence and physical ability on the part of the horse. Once the cow is separated, riders are no longer allowed to use their reins. Trained cutting horses are required to think on their own and anticipate and react to the cow’s moves. The competition is judged based on many factors - difficulty and how well the horse anticipates and reacts. This is the only equine competition where the horse is required to think for itself.
Qualification:
All owners and riders of entered horses must be members in good standing of the National Cutting Horse Association.
Wildfire Safety & Preparedness Summits and Firewise Community Meeting
Troon North Golf Club July 24th 4pm - Wickenburg Aug 14th 4pm
To address the community’s concerns and questions about wildfire events, the “Wildfire Safety & Preparedness Summit” is set to be an essential gathering for enhancing public awareness and readiness for wildfire incidents. Scheduled for July 24th at 4:00 PM, this public event will be held in the spacious Troon North Golf Club Ballroom, accommodating up to 200 attendees with ample parking available. Located at 10320 E Dynamite Blvd Scottsdale, AZ 85262
1. Increased Frequency and Severity of Wildfires
• Climate Change: Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and changes in weather patterns contribute to more frequent and severe wildfires.
• Extended Fire Seasons: Fire seasons are lasting longer, increasing the likelihood of wildfires occurring and spreading.
2. High Cost of Claims
• Expensive Payouts: Wildfires can cause extensive damage, leading to large insurance claims for rebuilding homes, replacing belongings, and covering additional living expenses.
• Reinsurance Costs: Insurers often rely on reinsurance to manage their own risk, and as wildfires become more frequent, the cost of reinsurance has risen, impacting the financial viability of offering policies in high-risk areas.
3. Risk Assessment and Management
Another Wildfire Summit will be held in Wickenburg, Arizona on Wednesday August 14, beginning at 4pm with it’s own panelists and emcee.
July Event Highlights:
Keynote Emcee:
Al Dunning a renowned horse trainer with 40 World Championships and long-time resident of Rio Verde Foothills at the Almosta Ranch will share submitted questions with the panelists.
Sponsor:
Dynamite Water & National Fire
Represented by Damon Bruns, a retired Phoenix Fire professional and Rio Verde resident. Bruns provides extensive wildfire mitigation services with a fleet of over 20 off-road wildland fire trucks and water tenders.
Event Schedule:
The summit will begin at 4:00 PM with a welcome and introduction by the Al Dunning. Following this, a lineup of experts with wildfire prevention and mitigation knowledge will introduce themselves, followed by a panel discussion. Attendees are encouraged to submit questions on 3 x 5 cards prior and during the discussion.
Key Topics of Discussion:
• Firewise Defensive Strategies: Implementing effective strategies to protect the community from wildfires.
• Wildfire Probability: Assessing the likelihood of a major wildfire event in the area.
• Available Resources: Exploring the resources available to combat wildfires.
• Evacuation Plans: Understanding multi-agency evacuation plans and mapping.
• Evacuation Laws: Discussing laws regarding mandatory evacuations and legal remedies for offenders.
• Animal Evacuation: Strategies for evacuating horses, pets, and large animals during wildfire events.
This summit aims to equip the community with crucial knowledge and preparedness strategies to ensure safety and resilience in the face of potential wildfire threats.
• Increased Risk: Areas prone to wildfires are considered high risk, and insurers are increasingly using advanced risk assessment models to identify these areas.
• Preventive Measures: While some homeowners may take steps to reduce their risk, such as creating defensible space and using fire-resistant materials, these measures are not always enough to mitigate the overall risk to insurers.
4. Regulatory and Market Pressures
• Regulatory Challenges: In some regions, regulatory requirements can limit the ability of insurance companies to adjust premiums to match the level of risk, leading them to withdraw from high-risk markets instead.
• Market Dynamics: Competitive pressures and the need to maintain financial stability can drive insurers to make difficult decisions about where they can afford to offer coverage.
5. Historical Losses
• Past Wildfire Events: Significant wildfire events in recent history have led to substantial financial losses for insurers, prompting a reevaluation of their exposure in fire-prone areas.
• Long-Term Viability: Sustained losses from wildfires can threaten the long-term viability of insurance companies, making it necessary to limit coverage in the highest-risk areas.
6. Mitigation and Adaptation Challenges
• Homeowner Mitigation Efforts: While some homeowners undertake mitigation efforts, not all are effective or comprehensive enough to significantly lower the risk of wildfire damage.
• Community-Wide Measures: Effective wildfire mitigation often requires coordinated efforts at the community level, which can be difficult to achieve consistently across all high-risk areas.
Impact on Homeowners
• Difficulty Finding Coverage: Homeowners in fire-prone areas may struggle to find affordable insurance options, leading to increased financial vulnerability.
• Increased Costs: When coverage is available, it is often at a higher cost due to the increased risk.
• Financial Insecurity: Without insurance, homeowners may face significant financial challenges in the event of a wildfire, including the loss of their home and personal property.
• Community Firewise Programs: Participation in programs like Firewise can help reduce risk and potentially make it easier for homeowners to obtain insurance.
PRORODEO HALL OF FAME
PREPARES TO CELEBRATE 45 YEARS
The ProRodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colo., will officially turn 45 on Aug. 6, but this week, the Hall will open its new exhibit, “45 Years of Memories.” The exhibit, in the 101 Gallery, celebrates the Hall of Fame’s 45 years of preserving rodeo history and telling the stories of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s champions and legends.
“It is an exciting exhibit, detailing the 45-year history of this museum,” said Kent Sturman, Director. “The timeline featuring major milestones for the Hall includes photographs of each class of inductees by year.”
Items featured in the gallery include unique pieces from the HafleyShelton Wild West Collection, the Ralph Ardourel Bit and Spur Collection, the Barrel Racing Clothes of Gayle Bannon, Rodeo Clown memorabilia, and masterpieces of art including sculptures and paintings. The exhibit will be available in the 101 Gallery until September.
The “45 Years of Memories” exhibit kicks off the anniversary year and will help promote the 45th Anniversary Celebration, Open House and Exhibition Rodeo to be held in August. The celebration commences Friday, Aug. 2 with the Rodeo Clown Reunion where over 30 retired and active rodeo clowns will be featured at the Hall throughout the day. Activities planned for this first day include autograph sessions, clown act performances, magic tricks, clown storytelling and much more.
On Aug. 3-4, the clowns will be appearing at the Douglas County Fair and PRCA Rodeo in Castle Rock, Colo.
Anniversary activities continue daily at the Hall of Fame Monday through Friday, Aug. 5-9 with demonstrations, performances, film premiers and educational presentations. On Wednesday, Aug. 6, the Little Champions Youth Program will be offered. Also on that day, the Hall of Fame will roll back admission prices to what they were when the museum opened on Aug. 6, 1979. Throughout this week of anniversary events, the Hall will feature showings of several rodeo documentaries and feature length films in a “rodeo film festival” atmosphere.
The celebration will conclude on Saturday, Aug. 10 with a free open house at the museum from 9 a.m. to 5 pm. An Exhibition Rodeo will be held at 6 pm Aug. 10 in the Hall’s Ed Honnen Priefert Arena produced by award-winning PRCA Stock Contractors Cervi Championship Rodeo.
This full day of fun will feature music, cowboy poetry, equine drill teams, children’s activities, anniversary cake, autograph sessions, vendors, food trucks and much, much more.
“We are excited to plan and execute this milestone anniversary,” said Sturman. “As a museum and hall of fame, we have a lot to celebrate and honor. We are proud of our history and want to share our successes with the fans and museum visitors. There is so much rich history to preserve and stories to tell.”
A complete schedule of events and activities will be released later, and more information can be found at www.prorodeohalloffame.com.
USDA Awards $50 Million to Support Farmworkers and Agricultural Employers
PALISADE, Colo., June 14, 2024 –
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is awarding $50 million to 141 awardees in 40 states and Puerto Rico, through the Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program (FLSP Program), reaching 177 unique agricultural operations and over 11,000 workers. The awards will help improve the resiliency of the U.S. food supply chain by addressing agriculture labor challenges and instability, strengthen protections for farmworkers, and expand legal pathways for labor migration. This program delivers on a commitment made as part of the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection and furthers the Administration’s commitment to a regional approach to migration in the hemisphere.
“These awards will largely support small and mid-sized farms to ensure they can hire and retain the workers they need to be competitive in the market, while also lifting up rural communities across the country,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Farmworkers make an incredibly important contribution to food and agriculture and ensure we have food on our tables every day. Improving working conditions and quality of life for farmworkers, both U.S. based workers and those that come to our country to work, is one key step in building a stronger, more resilient food supply chain. The Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to supporting
employers and farmworkers alike.”
USDA announced the FLSP Program in September 2023, in coordination with other federal agencies, to help address workforce needs in agriculture; promote a safe and healthy work environment, as well as ethical recruitment for farmworkers; and support lawful migration pathways for workers, including expansion of labor pathways for workers from Northern Central America, through the H-2A visa program. FLSP was designed with significant input from immigration, labor, and agricultural stakeholders – informed by the experiences of farmworkers and farmers themselves.
The FLSP Program grants will support a range of required and elective supplemental commitments to expand benefits and protections for all employees. Examples of awardee commitments include:
Establishing robust pay-related benefits that have the potential to raise earnings for thousands of workers, as well as provide them more time with their families or taking care of their health through policies such as personal and paid sick time off, and mid-season vacation leave;
Markedly improving working and living conditions by strengthening employer-employee engagement, such as establishing Collaborative Working Groups with robust farmworker representation and partnerships with external organizations that have longstanding experience collaborating with farmworkers;
Providing additional worker-friendly benefits, such as advancement and management training opportunities, driver’s license training, no-cost English classes for employees, and additional recreation spaces in housing facilities;
Supporting Know-Your-Rights-and-Resources training sessions for all workers to ensure they understand their legal rights as workers in the United States;
Participation in Worker-driven Social Responsibility programs –a proven model for improving workplace environments – such as the Fair Food Program;
Disclosing recruitment practices and advancing ethical, safe recruitment practices that are essential to protecting workers from illegal fees, undue debt, exploitation, and even human trafficking; 60 percent of employer awardees that plan to utilize the H-2A visa program committed to recruiting workers from Northern Central America.
Leading Horse Care Brand Farnam
and Country Music Trio The Castellows Partner in New Music-Led Campaign
“Everything
Phoenix, AZ - Farnam, a leading horse care brand for over 75 years in the Central Garden & Pet portfolio (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA), and the Neo-Traditional Country music family trio, The Castellows, announced today “Everything for the Ride,” a music-led campaign celebrating the lifelong bonds with horses. The campaign is a tribute to horse ownership’s many twists and turns and how Farnam is there for every single moment of the long ride together.
Rooted in music’s unique role in connecting us emotionally and creating community, the “Everything for the Ride” campaign is proud to produce three new, original songs from the beloved country music family, The Castellows. Farnam partnered with The Castellows as their lifelong love of horses runs deep. Through tending and loving these animals, the sister trio learned the hard work, grit, joy, and accomplishment that accompanies being a songwriter. This seamless partnership combined the trio’s passion for horses with their passion for songwriting and musical talent and produced music all horse lovers can relate to.
Each original song will inspire an accompanying video illustrating varying themes of the horse ownership journey. The videos will be released and available to consumers across Farnam and The Castellows’ social media channels this summer.
The Castellows created the three original songs during a unique songwriting retreat on
for the Ride” Honoring Lifelong Bonds with Horses
horse enthusiasts are invited to participate in the campaign
a farm in Tennessee alongside talented songwriters Erik Dylan, Brandon Hood, and Ava Suppelsa. Together, the six artists used inspiration from the retreat—horseback riding adventures, caring for the horses, and immersing themselves in the great outdoors—and their love of storytelling to produce the official “Everything for the Ride” soundtrack.
“We grew up riding horses and playing music,” said The Castellows. “We love that we are able to combine our love for the two and create the soundtrack for “Everything for the Ride” with Farnam.”
The “Everything for the Ride” campaign also debuts Farnam’s new branding including a modernized logo that will be used across all point of sale and company-wide marketing. Later this summer, Farnam will roll out a new Amazon storefront, offering consumers a more seamless online shopping experience to
meet all their horse care needs.
“Farnam has been the goto horse care brand for over 75 years, and while that won’t change, we have decided it’s time to refresh our brand with a fresh new look with an updated logo, modern branding, and our first-ever music and talent partnership,” says Stash Eaton, Equine Marketing Director at Farnam. “The collaboration with The Castellows is such an authentic partnership for our brand. The music they created perfectly embodies the essence of our mission and values, and we’re excited for consumers to hear the songs and engage with the campaign.”
The “Everything for the Ride” campaign also invites fans and consumers to participate on social media. Fans and consumers are encouraged to create and post a video to their personal Instagram accounts representing their beautiful journey with their horses over the years while
using sound bites from the new songs. To continue fostering community among horse lovers, participants can hashtag #everythingfortheride and tag both @thecastellows and @ farnamhorse. To be the first to hear the “Everything for the Ride ‘’ soundtrack and learn more about how to engage with #everythingfortheride, follow along on Farnam’s Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channels.
About Farnam
Farnam has been a leading supplier of quality horse care products for over 75 years and is on a mission to continually strengthen the bond between horse owners and their horses with proven, effective, trusted, and innovative horse care solutions. Widely recognized as a pioneer in the horse care industry, Farnam offers an ever-expanding range of premium products from head to hoof. Farnam products can be found at Tractor Sup-
ply Co, Amazon, Independent Feed and Tack Dealers, Farm Chain retailers, Chewy and other eCommerce retailers across North America. Farnam is owned by Central Garden & Pet. For more information, please visit www.farnam.com.
About The Castellows
Neo-Traditional Country music trio, The Castellows, are bringing a literal meaning to the phrase, “family tradition.” The band, comprised of sisters Ellie (lead guitar), Powell (banjo) and Lily (vocals), hail from small rural Georgetown, Georgia, but now call Nashville home. The Castellows’ sound is traditional, yet modern. Authentic, yet harnessed.
The common thread among the trio, other than their DNA, is their masterful three-part harmonies which blend together to create one singular, almost angelic, voice. The Castellows’ craft as songwriters is as robust as their voices, which is evident across the trio’s debut EP, A Little Goes A Long Way, releasing February 9, 2024.
The band wrote/co-wrote six of the seven songs that make up the project, with the promise of much more music to come. The band began turning heads of music industry insiders in January 2023. When spring arrived, The Castellows had signed a record deal with Warner Music Nashville & Warner Records, collectively. Wasting no time on pleasantries, The Castellows immediately got to work writing, recording, and performing live. Tapping veteran producer Trina Shoemaker (Sheryl Crow, Nanci Griffith, Queens of the Stone Age), the first fruits of labor to be harvested from 2023 is the debut A Little Goes A Long Way.
One year later, the three sisters from a cattle farm in Georgia are still turning heads, landing on multiple 2024 ‘Watch Lists’ including CMT ‘Listen Up,’ Pandora, Country Now, and Nashville Lifestyles’ ‘Five Groups You Need To Know,” as well as announcing a 21-
city tour that will begin eight days after the release of A Little Goes A Long Way….and they’re just getting started.
About Central Garden & Pet Central Garden & Pet Company
The company understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2023 net sales of $3.3 billion, Central is
on a mission to lead the future of the Pet and Garden industries. The Company’s innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Cadet®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Four Paws®, Kaytee®, K&H, Nylabone® and Pennington®, strong
manufacturing and distribution capabilities, and a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. Central Garden & Pet is based in Walnut Creek, California, with 6,700 employees across North America and Europe. (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA)
Visit www.central.com to learn more.
All trademarks are property of their respective owners.
Blue Ribbon Horse Shows
Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian is pleased to announce Markel as the Official Equine Insurance Sponsor of the 2024 Adequan®/ USEF Junior Hunter National Championships.
“Markel’s long-standing and consistent support of US Equestrian is remarkable,” said US Equestrian’s Chief Executive Officer Bill Moroney. “Their decision to expand their sponsorship to include our Junior Hunter National Championships is a direct reflection of their commitment to supporting the growth and visibility of the equestrian sport. We look forward to welcoming them to these championships.”
The Adequan/USEF Junior Hunter National Championships will once again have two finals, an East Coast Finals and a West Coast Finals. The East Coast Finals will be June 24th-29th, 2024 at Flintfields Horse Park in Traverse City, MI and the West Coast Finals will be held July 21-24th, 2024 at the HITS Del Mark Horsepark in Del Mar, CA.
“Markel representatives will be at both events cheering on the best junior hunters in the nation,” said Brandon Seger, Associate Director at Markel. “We seek to differentiate ourselves from competitors with our equine knowledge, service, continuity and insurance solutions for horses, riding instructors and trainers as well as farms and equine businesses. We are excited to be the official equine insurance sponsor of the Adequan/USEF Jr Hunter East and Jr Hunter West Championships.”
About Markel
Markel is a leading global specialty insurer with a truly peoplefirst approach. As the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), they operate the Markel Specialty, Markel International, and Markel Global Reinsurance divisions, as well as State National, their portfolio protection and program services operations, and Nephila, their insurance-linked securities operations. Markel’s broad array of capabilities and expertise allow them to create intelligent solutions for the most complex risk management needs. However, it is their people – and the deep, valued relationships they develop with colleagues, brokers, and clients – that differentiates Markel worldwide.
Jay and his wife Nancy entered the Paint Horse business in 1966 with the purchase of J Bar Desperado, an early APHA Champion. Their children—Andrea, Joe, and Daniel—showed horses like Billy Joe Dun and C-Note’s Rosalita to numerous national championships and year-end titles. C-Note’s Rosalita produced Jetalito, a top-tier sire, further cementing the family’s APHA legacy.
Jay Simons APHA Past President dies at 101
As dedicated Paint promoters, breeders, and horse-show parents, Jay and Nancy also supported the APHA. Jay served as a state director, committee member, and APHA president in 1978. Both were inducted into the inaugural APHA Hall of Fame class in 2012, during APHA’s 50th anniversary celebration.
Jay grew up in Boston but spent most of his adult life in Florida; he and Nancy were married for 70 years. A World War II aircraft mechanic, Jay became a lawyer in 1950 and remained a practicing member of the Florida Bar Association. APHA extends condolences to the Simons family and friends.
NCHA ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH NUTRENA
FORT WORTH – The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Nutrena, a leading brand known for providing exceptional horse feed products.
“We are thrilled about our new partnership with the NCHA. At Nutrena, we know that for high-performing horses, health, happiness, and performance go hand in hand. That is why we have spent over one hundred years developing horse feed to nourish and fuel them to feel their best,” explained the Nurtrena Team.
AQHA VRH World Top Ranching Heritage-Bred Horses
Three American Quarter Horses recognized as the Top AQHA Ranching Heritage-Bred Horse their show accomplishments. Each of these horses earned a $250 cash prize and a custom trophy for their owners. Their breeders also each received a $250 cash prize.
The 2024 AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships and concurrent ranch horse events concluded June 22 at the Tri-State Exposition in Amarillo, Texas. The event had more than 2,800 entries between the AQHA VRH World; AQHA Ranching Heritage Challenge Finals; AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships, presented by the Four Sixes Ranch; and National Ranch and Stock Horse Alliance National Championship Show.
Three American Quarter Horses were recognized in four categories as the Top Ranching Heritage-Bred Horses over and above
The Top Ranching Heritage-Bred Horse in the AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships was CR Better Off Tuff, who was shown by Piper Keller of El Reno, Oklahoma. The 2017 red roan mare is owned by Michael Keller of El Reno, Oklahoma and was bred by Center Ranch of Centerville, Texas. CR Better Off Tuff is by Woody Be Tuff and out of High Class Peptolena by High Brow Cat.
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Earning the Top Ranching Heritage-Bred Horse award in National Ranch and Stock Horse Alliance competition, as well as the AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships amateur division was Eureka Wild Card. The 2012 buckskin mare is by Wild Card Dun It and out of Colonel C Boonie by Colonel Clout. She was bred by Mr. and Mrs. Louis A. Waters of Utopia, Texas; ridden by Brianne Hight of Clovis, New Mexico; and is owned by Alex Bryant of Midland, Texas.
Earning the Top Ranching Heritage-Bred Horse award in the youth division of the AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships was Cowgirl Capital, shown by Bayleigh Melton of Gruver, Texas. The 2018 sorrel mare is by Bama Cat and out of the Lizzys Gotta Player mare Stylish Lizzie. Cowgirl Capital is owned by Burnett Ranches LLC of Guthrie, Texas, and was bred by Atwood Quarter Horses of Millsap, Texas.
The AQHA Ranching Heritage Program highlights the versatility, soundness and willing attitude of American Quarter Horses that are ranch-born and -raised. Only horses produced by Ranching Heritage Breeders are eligible to participate in the program, but anyone can own and show these horses. Ranching Heritage Breeders are those operations that steadfastly maintain the ranching tradition by raising American Quarter Horses for use in working cattle.
New AI Scribe Tool Saves Veterinarians
2 Hours a Day
VetSkribe also aims to improve mental health for veterinary professionals
A new scribe tool for veterinary professionals utilizing artificial intelligence aims to save time and, therefore, improving a work-life balance. Newly launched VetSkribe can save up to 2 hours a day, giving veterinary professionals more time to care for patients or opening time for self-care. This tool uses a combination of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and human expertise for accurate notes and documentation.
“VetSkribe’s inception stemmed from a pivotal moment during a veterinary management group dinner, where passionate veterinarians discussing the burden of charting sparked our mission to help doctors reclaim their time,” Jacinthe Moreau, VetSkribe CEO and co-founder, said in a company release.
Veterinary professionals can capture their consultation notes in the VetSkribe app using “ambient listening” or “dictation.” The app’s veterinary medical AI is trained to transcribe consultation recordings or dictated notes to the doctor’s subjective, objective, assessment, and plan template. Materials gathered can then be directly uploaded to patient medical records by the VetSkribe team after the veterinarian approves the content in the app or on the dashboard.1
Veterinarians using VetSkribe Enhance can also collaborate with medical scribes supervised by veterinarians and oversee the AI technology to ensure precision and accuracy. To set it apart from other scribe tools, VetSkribe technology generates visit summaries for pet owners within minutes, simplifying client communication and improving the pet owner experience.
“VetSkribe has been a continued next page
game-changer for me,” Andrea Schnuelle, DVM, a relief veterinarian with Lando Veterinary Relief based in Wisconsin, said in the release. “At a point of desperation after having my son, I had to make significant changes. Relying on technology for my charting turned out to be a lifesaver. Not only did the quality and content of my medical records vastly improve, but the time I spent on them decreased significantly. This resulted in a notable boost in my satisfaction with my records. I finally felt like I had the breathing room between patients that I desperately needed. The benefits of VetSkribe may vary from person to person, but for me, it’s been about quality and
speed—essential in urgent care settings. I now have the luxury of spending more time with clients, seeing a few more appointments per day, and— crucially for me—getting out on time. And perhaps most importantly, I finally have a lunch period, something I had almost forgotten was possible in this profession. VetSkribe has truly helped me achieve a better work-life balance.”
To celebrate its launch, VetSkribe is offering a 30-day free trial. “With VetSkribe, veterinarians can focus on quality care without the burden of administrative tasks and the stress of keeping up with their medical charting,” Moreaua added.
2024 Higher Education Equestrian Scholarship Application Open to Incoming First-Year College Students
Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian invites all 2024 high school graduates who are beginning their college career in the fall to apply now for the 2024 Higher Education Equestrian Scholarships. The program provides five $1,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are committed to advancing their equestrian knowledge while in college.
Intercollegiate equestrians ©Leslie Potter/US Equestrian
The deadline for applications is July 31, 2024.
The scholarships are available to all current US Equestrian competing members and subscribers who graduated high school in 2024 and are preparing to enter their first year of college in the fall of 2024. The scholarship is available to members from all US Equestrian-affiliated breeds and disciplines who will continue their involvement with horses or equestrian sports in college.
Applicants will be asked to provide a personal essay about their equestrian background and future plans.
Have you ever wondered about the intricate digestive system of a horse? One crucial component of their digestive tract is the hindgut. But what exactly is the hindgut and why is it so important for the overall health of a horse?
What is the Hindgut and Why is it Important?
What is the Hindgut?
The hindgut refers to the latter part of a horse’s digestive system, which includes the cecum, colon, and rectum. This section of the digestive tract is responsible for fermenting fiber and extracting nutrients from the horse’s diet.
Why is it Important?
The hindgut plays a vital role in a horse’s overall health and well-being. Here are a few reasons why the hindgut is so important:
1. Fermentation: The hindgut is where fiber from the horse’s diet is broken down through fermentation. This process al-
lows horses to extract essential nutrients, such as volatile fatty acids, which are crucial for energy production.
2. Water Absorption: The hindgut is also responsible for absorbing water from the digesta, helping to prevent dehydration and maintain proper hydration levels in the horse.
3. Microbial Population: The hindgut is home to a diverse population of beneficial microbes that aid in the digestion of fiber and the production of essential nutrients. Disruptions to this microbial population can lead to digestive issues and overall health problems.
4. Health Maintenance: A healthy hindgut is essential for maintaining a horse’s overall health and well-being. Digestive disturbances in the hindgut can lead to conditions such as colic, diarrhea, and laminitis, which can be life-threatening if not properly managed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hindgut is a crucial part of a horse’s digestive system that plays a significant role in nutrient absorption, hydration, and overall health. By understanding the importance of the hindgut and taking steps to support its function, horse owners can help ensure the well-being of their equine companions.
The Inaugural AQHA Ranch Horse Classic
The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is excited to announce the inaugural Ranch Horse Classic during the 2024 Nutrena AQHA and Adequan Select World Championship Shows, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the AQHA World Show. The event is scheduled for November 9, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the Jim Norick Arena at the OKC Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City. With a minimum of $50,000 in added money, the Ranch Horse Classic also offers an additional side pot for Ranching Heritage-bred horses.
NRCHA Summary
The National Reined Cow Horse Association, formed in 1949 as the California Reined Cow Horse Association, is charged with oversight and enforcement of the rules that regulate the sport of reined cow horse, as well as preserving and educating the public about the rich history of this traditional style of horsemanship. As a member-focused organization, NRCHA, guided by its Board of Directors, strives to support the integrity and sustainability of the association, its sanctioned and managed events, and the sport as a whole for the benefit of our members, stakeholders, supporters and fans, and for the horses that compete in our arenas.
Through numerous affiliate clubs across the United States and abroad, as well as nonaffiliate partners, NRCHA supports sanctioned events throughout the year. These sanctioned events often provide the starting point for riders who are interested in reined cow horse.
In addition to sanctioned events, NRCHA manages five premier events annually. These events feature the highest level of reined cow horse competition, and provide an opportunity for fans and spectators to join in the festivities at ticketed and nonticketed finals.
Open to American Quarter Horses aged 3 to 5 years, the event welcomes exhibitors of all ages and experience levels, including youth and amateurs. Participants will compete in ranch riding, ranch trail, and ranch cow work. Entry is limited to 20 participants, with one horse per owner and rider, who must compete in all three events with the same horse. Priority entry will be given to horses qualified for the AQHA World, VRH World, RHC Finals, or AQHYA World in 2024, and to Ranching Heritage-bred horses. A waitlist will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
SmartPak Joins WPRA
By Ann Bleiker
SmartPak was founded in 1999 and is now bringing their smarts to power healthy horses and happy riders within the professional rodeo world, specifically with the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association
While all rodeo competitors have a love for their horses, the women of the WPRA take that level of love to a higher standard so to combine that love with the philosophy of those at SmartPak seemed like a nobrainer.
“Caring for our equine athletes and making sure they are feeling their best when they enter the professional arena is no easy task but the foundation that SmartPak has put together through their SmartPak supplement feeding system helps ease that burden,” stated Hannah Miller, WPRA Partnership and Special Events Manager. “We are excited to bring their years of experience in equine care to the members of the WPRA.”
Founder Becky Minard owned a horse that needed daily supplements. She quickly realized that what should have been a simple chore was in fact a complicated process in desperate need of solutions! SmartPaks were developed as a way to simplify feeding.
NetJets U.S. Jumping Team for FEI Jumping Nations Cup™ Sweden CSIO5*
Lexington, Ky. - US Equestrian is pleased to announce the athletes selected to represent the NetJets U.S. Jumping Team in the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Sweden CSIO5* hosted at the Falsterbo Horse Show from July 6-14, 2024. The team will be led by Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland and Team Leader Erin Keating.
The following athletes have been selected to represent the NetJets U.S. Jumping Team and are listed in alphabetical order.
Mimi Gochman (Palm Beach, Fla.)
Spencer Smith (Wellington, Fla.)
Adrienne Sternlicht (Wellington, Fla.)
Aaron Vale (Williston, Fla.)
Competition for the NetJets U.S. Jumping Team will begin
on Thursday, July 11, with the Grand Prix Qualifier at 12:30 p.m. GMT+2/6:30 a.m. ET, followed by the featured FEI Jumping Nations Cup of Sweden CSIO5* beginning at 2:00 p.m. GMT+2/8:00 a.m. ET on Friday, July 12. The Grand Prix of Falsterbo CSIO5* will start at 2:00 p.m. GMT+2/8:00 a.m. ET on Sunday, July 14, to conclude the weeklong competition. Stay up to date on the NetJets®U.S. Jumping Team by following USA Jumping on Facebook and Instagram and US Equestrian on Facebook,
Equestrian Center in Temecula Proposed as New Venue Equestrian Events
The new venue assignments will create more than $150 million in combined cost savings and revenue increases
Lausanne, Switzerland -
The Organizing Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles 2028 (LA28) has announced plans to move equestrian and para equestrian competitions to an existing purpose-built facility in Temecula, Southern California, emphasizing sustainability, legacy, and fiscal responsibility in their decision.
The relocation of equestrian and para equestrian events, which were previously assigned to the Sepulveda Dam Recreation Area, will achieve significant cost savings by eliminating the need to construct an expensive, entirely temporary venue.
“The plan to relocate equestrian competitions to the existing Equestrian Center in Temecula is a positive development for the sport and the equestrian community,” FEI President and International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Ingmar De Vos said.
“The FEI has worked closely with the Organizing Committee to evaluate and choose a venue capable of hosting all equestrian and para equestrian events with the aim of managing the overall costs and complexity.
“Importantly, the venue can also accommodate Eventing competitions which was a condition of the IOC Executive Board to include this discipline in the program of the LA28 Olympic Games. The reasoning behind the venue change also fits well equestrian sport’s sustainability ideals and aims, and for creating lasting legacies for the local community. With this important announcement we can now start working with LA28 on the field of play design and organization of the equestrian competitions.”
The LA28 Organizing Committee revised its venue plans to use more existing venues, and fewer temporary venues, to make the Olympic and Paralympic Games more sustainable while elevating the experience for athletes and fans. The new venue assignments will create more than US $150 million in combined cost savings and revenue increases for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The amendments to the venue master plan, that have already been approved by the IOC Executive Board, will be put forward to the City Council of Los Angeles for its formal approval in the coming months, as the proposals involve relocating the competition venues outside the city’s boundaries, and differ from the plans initially submitted during the bid.
“We are thrilled a venue has been chosen that can host all the equestrian events,” CEO of the United States Equestrian Federation Bill Moroney said.
“The announcement of the equestrian venue aligns with the IOC requirement stating all equestrian events must be held at the same location. The Equestrian Center for the LA28 Games in Temecula will be a world class international experience on the field of play for the athletes, horses, and their support teams as well as for fans and spectators alike.
“US Equestrian is proud to support equestrian sport’s inclusion in the Olympic and Paralympic programs for 2028 and is eager to work with the FEI, LA28 Organizing Committee, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee to bring an extraordinary event to the USA. The LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games hold immense potential to elevate the visibility and popularity of our sport nationwide.”
The IOC Executive Board will finalize the events, athlete quota and competition formats for the LA28 Olympic Program following the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with a final decision expected in 2025.
The Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028 will take place from 14 to 30 July, followed by the Paralympic Games from 15 to 27 August.
