Bridle & Bit Magazine June 2024 Edition

Inaugural Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo entertains

Decided by the seventh and final showdown of the night, Team Free Riders shocked the world!

By James Youness

FORT WORTH, Texas – With more than 23,000 fans gathering inside the home of the Dallas Cowboys Friday night during the inaugural Kid Rock’s Rock N Rodeo, it’s safe to say the world’s topranked rodeo athletes warmed the place up for PBR’s 2024 World Finals finale.

Seeing the very team that was assembled just last week, consisting of the top-finishing contestants from Rodeo Corpus Christi, come together out of left field to steal the deal was quite the thrill in itself.

Free Riders Win the 2024 Kid Rock n’ Rodeo

But to see the marathon of a competition come down to the very last of seven possible championship round discipline shootouts, there couldn’t have been a more fiery way to end the star-studded event!

Of course, during a Year One event of such grand fortitude, a few kinks in the hose can be expected.

All things considered, though, saying this event was a success would be a huge understatement.

It wasn’t just a heart-pounding reimagination of traditional rodeo.

And while only one of the six competitive squads exited Jerry

World with $500,000, each of them have to view Friday night’s success as a win for the sport.

“Obviously there were some hiccups getting this thing going, but you don’t launch a gigantic, industry-changing event like this without taking some risks, so hats off to Kid Rock and Sean Gleason for putting this together. It took some guts,” Free Riders’ coach Bobby Mote shared in a post-event conference.

“People came to watch these guys and Kid Rock was a bonus. The fact that all of these people got together to create this opportunity and the fact that the least likely team on paper was able to come and capitalize and do so well … I think it’s like a fairytale story to me and it was as fun as could be. It was a nail-biter that came down to the very last minute but everybody did great and we couldn’t be happier.”

Oddly reminiscent of the 2022 PBR Teams Championship, where the league’s eighth-ranked Nashville Stampede squad stormed into T-Mobile Arena and captured the inaugural gold buckle in Cinderella fashion, PBR shocked the world once again.

So if you came for drama, this was the showcase for you!

Seeing the top-performing barrel-racing talents on the planet start the show off with an impressive, awe-capturing spectacle, it was only right that the ladies finished things off with some dramatic flare.

Tapping a Winnsboro, Texas, native in Makenzie Mayes to get things started for the Free Riders during the opening round showdown, Mote later turned to the talent during the nerve-wrecking finale.

And she delivered.

Finishing her run and galloping through the gates, she was instantly followed by a herd of her teammates who knew that she had

entertains rowdy crowd with dramatic finish

come through clutch.

The celebrations began, as the blue and white contingent credited heart and hard work in being able to beat out five pairs of coaches who hand-picked their squads.

So, if this thing happens to get legs and make another appearance or two in the future, know that there’s plenty of top-tier rodeo talent to go around.

Charmayne James’ Misty Mountain Hop found themselves in a 3-3 championship round tie late into the night. And despite using both the 10th and 20th overall selections on athletes to give them an advantage in the barrel racing discipline, her squad wasn’t able to overcome the momentum of the “Chip on the shoulder” group of Free Riders.

Of course the experience wouldn’t have been quite the same without the verbal talents of both Kid Rock and Jelly Roll, who opened the hybrid phenomenon only the way a new-country, old-school duo could.

Beginning his set in the pickup bed of a custom Tesla Cybertruck (driven by none other than BO Duke, himself), painted to the nines in orange paint and with the famous “01” on the car doors, imitating the famous General Lee look from the Dukes of Hazards days, there wasn’t a better way to unite his fans and the industry’s rodeo supporters.

Kid Rock n’ Rodeo Opening

Okay, sure, a few God Bless Americas, some red, white and blue streamers launched up into rowdy crowd and one HELL of an opening set did his gig similar justice. But he truly did set the tone for the night the only way Kid Rock knows how.

In the spotlight.

Welcoming Jelly Roll to the stage a few moments later, the breakout star performed his hit “Need A Favor” as tens of thousands of fans sang along in establishing the good vibes.

Leaning into some southern-forward songs and teasing the crowd with a brief opening set, he eventually returned for much more than an encore when the dirtside competition concluded.

And the fans?

They sure seemed to enjoy each and every song he had for them.

Tuff Cooper

Patrick Gottsch

Founder of RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel died in May at age 70.

Patrick Gottsch, 70, “a visionary” who dedicated his life to promoting and growing the rural and western way of life, died on Saturday, May 18, 2024, in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Patrick Gene Gottsch was born on June 3, 1953, to Bernard “Pat” and Gloria (Borowiak) Gottsch in Omaha, Nebraska. He grew up on the family farm in Elkhorn, Nebraska, proud oldest brother to three sisters, Terri, Tammy and Toni, and youngest brother, Mickey. The siblings formed a tight unit, working together on the farm, playing with their Saint Bernards, and carrying on their father’s more mischievous tendencies. When Patrick wasn’t helping his dad feed cattle or running the John Deere 620 during harvest, he worked at his grandparents’ bowling alley setting pins. He was a great athlete, playing basketball, football and baseball for Elkhorn High School. Even his competitors, Ray Burgess and Mike Trader, remained lifelong friends.

Patrick attended Sam Houston State University on a baseball scholarship, where he allegedly hit a home run at his first at-bat. While home from college, Patrick broke his hand teaching Mickey to drive a snowmobile when his brother crashed it into an apple tree. He didn’t return to Sam Houston State and began farming with his dad. After suffering three of the most devastating drought years in Nebraska history, his dad told him there was “no future in farming” and urged him to get a job in town. In 1977, Patrick moved to Chicago to work as a commodity broker on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. His hard work and competitive spirit earned him a seat on the trading floor. A country boy at heart, Patrick didn’t want to live in downtown Chicago and returned to Omaha in 1979. Bad luck struck again when the commodity market experienced a catastrophic fall during the grain embargo in 1980. Like countless others, Patrick lost his savings and went broke.

he pulled over to chat. The man asked if Patrick had any tools, and Patrick ended up helping him install it. It took them six hours. But the moment HBO came on, Patrick was hooked. Ultimately, the man offered Patrick a job installing satellite dishes. Patrick soon started his own company, E.T. Installations, and eventually introduced more than 2,000 satellites across the Midwest. In 1987, Patrick’s company was recognized as the nation’s largest privately owned home satellite retailer. The same year, he welcomed his second daughter, Gatsby, named after his favorite book, to the world.

A natural-born salesman, Patrick would follow up with his customers a couple of weeks after installing the satellite dish, looking for a referral. He heard time and again that customers loved “having Disney for the kids, ESPN for dad and TNN for music” but wondered why there wasn’t any programming about agriculture, rodeo and other rural interests on the networks. This feedback gave Patrick his initial idea for what would soon become his lifelong passion.

On August 31, 1988, Patrick launched RFD-TV from a studio in Omaha. RFD-TV was named after Rural Free Delivery, a program of the United States Post Office to deliver mail down every country road. Likewise, Patrick believed rural Americans should get the same access to news and entertainment that city folk enjoyed. It was vital to “connect city with country,” so that people understood where their food came from. RFD-TV delivered six full hours of live news, markets, weather and agribusiness features. The network was an instant hit with audiences. However, it was not picked up by any carriers, leading Patrick to file for bankruptcy in 1989.

In 1983, Patrick married Shirley and moved to an old farmhouse next to his grandmother, Alice, on her homestead. Their first daughter, Raquel, was born on December 13, 1984. As Patrick drove home from the hospital, he saw a man assembling a C-band satellite dish on Dodge Street. Interested in buying a home dish himself,

Patrick divorced, and in March 1991, he moved to Fort Worth, Texas, to work in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards as the director of sales for Superior Livestock Auction. He was encouraged by Superior’s founder, Jim Odle, that his idea of a 24/7 network dedicated to rural America was a great one. In 1996, Patrick left Superior to dedicate himself to being a dad and re-launching RFDTV. Patrick worked relentlessly for the next four years, coaching his girls’ softball teams and pitching his idea of a “rural network.” During this time, he earned a living installing satellite dishes for Dish Network. His daughters often accompanied him on installs after

school, calling out the signal strength while their dad was on the roof tuning the dish to its counterpart in the sky, and handing him a 7/16” wrench to tighten the bolts once they were “in the green.”

Every investor he pitched the network to said it was a “stupid idea” and that “farmers don’t watch TV.” Eventually, Charlie Ergen, the founder of Dish Network, told Patrick the 1992 Cable Act mandates satellite companies to reserve a few channels for educational or informational programming. Since providing rural news and education on agricultural interests was clearly informational, Charlie told Patrick to form a nonprofit, and he would give him one channel. Charlie accurately predicted Patrick “wouldn’t have any advertising support for years anyhow,” and told him if the channel was successful, he could switch to a for-profit business in the future. Seizing this opportunity, within weeks, Patrick put together a hard drive full of rural content, much of which was already airing in local markets, including Texas Country Reporter, U.S. Farm Report, California Country, Georgia Farm Monitor, Big Joe Polka Show, Ag PhD, and classic horse shows. Despite having no studio, no employees over the age of 16 and no money, Patrick re-launched RFD-TV on Dish Network on December 15, 2000. The experimental format of four networks in one, agriculture, equine, music and rural lifestyle, proved to be a success.

Patrick built the network backwards, seeking distribution in rural markets first instead of focusing on New York and L.A. His strategy worked, and distribution expanded to DirecTV in March 2002. That same year, RFD-TV signed its first cable agreement with Mediacom, becoming a basic cable channel in Des Moines, Iowa. New markets followed one by one, with distribution reaching more than 30 million homes by September 2006. The network also continued to expand its programming, including live broadcasts of cattle auctions from Superior Livestock Co. In 2007, RFD-TV switched to a for-profit network, providing Patrick with new opportunities.

The rest, as they say, is history. Patrick continued to innovate, transforming ideas into powerful platforms that brought the heart and soul of rural America to screens across the nation. He opened a theatre in Branson, Missouri, in 2006, where legends such as The Beach Boys, Willie Nelson and Larry the Cable Guy performed. He secured an agreement with radio personality Don Imus to simulcast Imus in the Morning in 2007. He “saved” Trigger and Bullet, Roy Rogers’ famous palomino and German shepherd in 2010. He broke the Guinness World Record for Largest Parade of Classic Tractors in 2012. He made the first-ever $1 million donation to the FFA in 2012. He launched Rural Radio on Sirius XM and broke the Guinness World Record for Largest Pick-Up Truck Parade at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2013. Along with Randy Bernard, he crowned the first $1 million cowboy at The American Rodeo in 2014.

In 2017, Patrick launched The Cowboy Channel, which became the Official Network of ProRodeo. In an instant, he changed the western sports industry forever and found a home and community he loved. One of his greatest honors in life was being recognized as the Resistol 2022 Man of the Year at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

His passion and vision shaped a company and an industry, but it was his passion for family that defined him. In 2011, Patrick met Angie Good, who became his wife and his oasis from the relentless demands of the business world. Together, they shared laughter and a beautiful daughter, Rose. Like her dad, Rose has a quick wit and

playful sense of humor. She fearlessly tackles challenges with the same determination and is credited as the founder of The Cowgirl Channel, sharing his innovative spirit.

Patrick always missed the family farm. At the end of his life, he bought back some of the land from the original family farm and ran it with his brother, Mickey. He was always most at home in the cab of a tractor.

Beyond his remarkable career, Patrick was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He is survived by his wife, Angie, and their daughter, Rose; his daughter, Raquel, her husband, Sean, and their children, Case and Carson; his daughter, Gatsby, her husband, David, and their children, Eleanor and Sylvan; his sister Terri, her husband, Dan, and their children, Chuck and Dillon; his sister Tammy, her husband, Al, and their children, Andrea, Sara and Nick; his sister Toni, her husband, Tom, and their children, T.J. and Samantha; his brother, Mickey, his fiancé, Julie, and his children, Devon and Nolan; and countless cousins, friends and colleagues. Patrick was preceded in death by his father, Pat; his mother, Gloria; and his oldest sister, Patricia, who passed away at birth. He will be buried next to them in his hometown of Elkhorn, where he continued to live throughout his long and meaningful life.

Patrick Gottsch’s Vision for the Fort Worth Stockyards

Patrick’s passion for Fort Worth and his careful, strategic planning earned him immense respect in

Fort Worth

Fort Worth has witnessed a remarkable transformation in its historic Stockyards, thanks to the visionary efforts of Patrick Gottsch and Craig Cavileer, managing partner at Stockyards Heritage Development Company. Their partnership turned the Stockyards into a premier destination for cowboys and western enthusiasts.

Cavileer’s relationship with Gottsch began over a decade ago when Gottsch expressed his desire to return to the Stockyards. His vision was to rejuvenate Fort Worth’s cowboy culture and let it resonate nationwide. Initially, Gottsch planned to move some corporate operations to Fort Worth. However, his methodical approach soon led to more ambitious plans, including the relocation of the Cowboy Channel and Cowgirl Channel studios, creating a hub for western lifestyle broadcasting.

Gottsch’s passion for Fort Worth and his careful, strategic planning earned him immense respect. The Stockyards, once seen as a tourist trap, have been transformed into a genuine cultural and entertainment center, often compared to “Rodeo Drive.” This transformation attracted major western lifestyle brands and significantly enhanced the area’s appeal.

A pivotal moment in this journey was the 2020 National Finals Rodeo. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Gottsch and Cavileer managed to host the event at the Stockyards, drawing 450,000 visitors over ten days. This showcased the Stockyards on a national stage and demonstrated Fort Worth’s resilience and enduring cowboy spirit.

Under the guidance of Gottsch and Cavileer, the Fort Worth Stockyards have become a vibrant, authentic destination celebrating the cowboy way of life. Their visionary partnership has not only preserved a historic landmark but also created a thriving hub that embodies the spirit of the cowboy for future generations.

The Gottsch family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Patrick’s honor be made to the National FFA Foundation.

Red, White and Rural

RFD-TV founder Patrick Gottsch on the importance of small communities, big communication and chasing the American dream.

Equinety Edge

By Jessica Lash / July 22, 2022

For as long as Patrick Gottsch can remember, he has loved the rural lifestyle. Born on a small farm outside of Omaha, Nebraska, Gottsch grew up raising corn, soybeans, cattle and hogs alongside his family. He recalls life growing up on the farm with fond memories, still cherishing the great family atmosphere that rural life provided. Although he initially attended college after high school at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, the urge to farm was magnetic, and Gottsch soon returned home. It was a decision that would have a far-reaching impact.

“My dad set me up on a farm next to his,” Gottsch shared. “Then we had three of the worst drought years in Nebraska history. It was 100 degrees nearly all summer long. We had 22% interest and $2 corn. My dad told me, ‘There’s no future in farming—you need to go to town and get a job.’”

Gottsch says only recently has he begun to look back over the last 20 years and marvel at all that has been accomplished since his idea’s inception.

“Honestly, we look back now, shake our heads, and ask, ‘How the heck did we do that?’”

Pictured: left to right in 2022: Raquel, Rose, Patrick, & Gatsby Gottsch – courtesy of the family

Gottsch took his father’s advice, landing a job selling satellite dishes to consumers residing in both rural and urban areas. It didn’t take him long to realize that people in both locations were complaining about the same thing—there was a significant lack of quality agricultural programming. Commodity reports aired at four o’clock in the morning. The satellite programming offered 26 sports programs, but no rodeo or Western sports. There was a gap—a big gap—and Gottsch aimed to fill it.

“One night, I just wrote down on the back of an envelope, ‘RFD-TV—rural America’s most important network.’ I decided we should run commodity reports in the morning, equine programming in the afternoon, and Western sports and music at night. The rest, like they say, is history.”

Gottsch laughed. “But here we are. We are a family-owned company, which I’m very proud of. I tried to get outside investors, but everyone told me what a dumb idea it was, so ultimately, we ended up with all our stock still in the family. We have gotten every break in the world in the last 22 years. It’s like this was meant to be.”

For Gottsch, the success of RFD-TV and its programming is a tip of the hat to the quintessential American dream.

“America is full of these kinds of stories where someone had an idea, and they had the freedom to go out and pursue it,” Gottsch shared. “The ones who don’t give up usually find a way to get it done. That’s part of the beauty of America.”

Building a successful company that caters to the interests of agricultural communities and watching it not only sustain, but thrive, has shown Gottsch that no matter what mainstream media may have people believe, the heartbeat of rural America is alive and well.

“The rural way of life is not dead— not even a little bit,” Gottsch said. “A generation ago, almost everyone had a connection to farming or agriculture— you had a parent, grandparent or great grandparent who farmed or lived in the country. That’s not the case anymore, which makes communication more important now than it ever has been.”

For Gottsch, one of the greatest joys is showcasing rodeos across the country.

What started 22 years ago as an idea haphazardly jotted down on the back of an envelope has expanded over the course of more than two decades to include the additions of Rural Radio on Sirius XM and The Cowboy Channel. In December, during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo month, The Cowboy Channel consistently ranks amongst the five most-viewed sports channels, beating out industry giants like NBC and CBS Sports—a true testament to the fact that the Western way of life is not going anywhere. At least, not anytime soon.

“For rural communities, the rodeo is often the biggest event of the year,” Gottsch explained. “The whole town—often the whole county—comes together to pull it off. Almost every rodeo includes a grand entry, with a prayer, the national anthem and a presenting of the colors. Rodeo embodies those traditional values, and we feel fortunate to have to opportunity to showcase it.”

Back in 2017, the PRCA didn’t have much of a TV presence to speak of.

That changed through visionary Patrick Gottsch

BY TRACY RENCK

• Patrick Gottsch, a well-known figure in the ag industry, began doing things with the PRCA seven years ago, and his goal was to put the Western Lifestyle on TV every day, all day, and that’s what he did with the inception of The Cowboy Channel in 2019.

That same year, the PRCA and Rural Media Group announced a multi-year agreement to move the National Finals Rodeo to The Cowboy Channel and RFD-TV beginning in 2020.

Gottsch’s vision and the landmark TV deal became a huge milestone in the growth of the PRCA because the NFR could be seen by millions of people live simultaneously on two national TV networks.

Gottsch, Founder of Rural Media Group, Inc., parent company to RFD-TV, The Cowboy Channel, The Cowgirl Channel and Rural Radio 147, passed away May 18. He was 70.

“The PRCA sends our thoughts and prayers to the Gottsch family and our partners at Rural Media Group,” PRCA CEO Tom Glause said. “Patrick was a lifelong supporter of the cowboy way and was integral in bringing our sport to households all over the world. He will be greatly missed and remembered for generations.”

Jeff Medders, who has been involved with rodeo TV broadcasts for more than 30 years and worked for Gottsch at The Cowboy Channel for four years, beginning in January 2020, praised his former boss.

“What he did will leave an impact for a long, long time,” Medders said. “I have been involved since 1991 through ESPN and Great American Country and CBS Sports Network and then (Patrick) came in and I never dreamed we would have our own ESPN basically for cowboy sports. He was a man of incredible vision, and he wasn’t afraid to put his money where his mouth is. What a gamble he made to go ahead and pull the trigger and do what he did. He was a man of great vision and incredible passion for the Western World.

day and he just had incredible vision and he wasn’t afraid to bet the ranch that this was going to be successful.”

Medders recalled a dinner he had with Gottsch recently and the feelings Gottsch expressed.

“We had a great dinner a couple of weeks ago and he grew up in the agricultural side of it, RFD-TV is ag based, and he was blown away by the people and the culture of the cowboy world. He said he searched for 65 years to find a place that he really felt like was home and where he loved to be, and he found it in the Western world.”

Medders hosted the ‘Patrick Gottsch Remembered’ TV broadcast on May 21-23, at 7:30 p.m. (ET) a half-hour in length on The Cowboy Channel. Justin McKee hosted a one-hour show of ‘Patrick Gottsch Remembered’ on May 24th.

Karlee Peterson, Executive Producer at The Cowboy Channel, shared the following about Gottsch.

“Working with Patrick from day one of The Cowboy Channel to now 5 years later, he’s remained consistent in many ways,” Peterson said. “The word no, was never an option. Patrick held the industry’s people & cowboys in the highest regard, he respected rodeo committees & associations of all sizes, & continued daily to reinvent the wheel. There are few people that are truly visionaries. And Patrick is #1 in my book.?

“I have the utmost respect for him. I thought he was one of the most passionate humans I have ever met. He was a handful to work for, but I thoroughly enjoyed him and enjoyed his company. I really miss him.”

Medders acknowledged Gottsch’s approach to broadcasting the Western World grew on him.

“He changed my mindset,” Medders said. “I was of that mindset that rodeo needed to be on an ESPN or CBS something that gets you outside to the public and I still think maybe you can put some events like that, and I was kind of slow to grasp his vision of now creating this Western Lifestyle Network where it was all cowboys all the time. Once I sat down and looked at it, I was like this is a gamechanger. He did more for rodeo in 30 days than I had seen anybody do in 30 years in terms of exposure.

“Then to bring you every round from Fort Worth, Cheyenne, Calgary, Pendleton…To do 10 hours of live TV everyday surrounding the National Finals Rodeo. It is like having the Super Bowl every

“On Wednesday, Patrick said ‘Karlee, I love my job. I love what I do.’ He meant it. I hope people got to experience how funny Patrick was, a true sense of humor & the most loyal heart. I’ll forever cherish spending his last evening at the Kid Rock rodeo with him & our team. We raved about the opening ceremonies, sang to Kid Rock & enjoyed the rodeo with friends & family. I’ll always be learning from him. Thank you for believing in me & being the greatest teammate. As we like to call Patrick, Rodeo Elvis.”

Randy Bernard, who worked with Gottsch and was a friend to him, took a moment to talk about his impact.

“The Western Way of life never had a media form that truly represented them,” Bernard said. “It was the first time cowboys got the respect that was so needed. I think what he did was show is that rodeo is a loved sport and his fanbase truly got behind it and the sport has grown tremendously because of The Cowboy Channel.”

Bernard admitted he thought The Cowboy Channel would take a while to find its footing – which wasn’t the case.

“I never thought (it would get to) the level it has and so quick,” he said. “But, knowing Patrick, he was a fighter. He never gave up. He always wanted more than he could have, and he was always going to make it bigger and better. He was relentless and he didn’t give up. He had a dream on this, and he loved the appreciation that the industry gave him. He loved going to rodeos and talking to fans.

“Probably 10 years ago before we started The American, he had RFD-TV, and he was huge with the agricultural community but on the Western lifestyle he didn’t realize how big and how great it was. In the last decade, he just loved it, and it became his focus. He wanted to give the cowboys so much and that was his goal. It was never about making money with him. It was always about how he could make it bigger and better.”

Top AQHA Reining Sires of 2023

These are the top 10 bloodlines dominating the sport of reining.

American Quarter Horses shine in the reining pen with their athleticism and heart. The reining sires in this list have passed these qualities on to their offspring and it shows in the results.

These statistics, powered by the QData Leaderboards, were compiled from January 1 to December 31, 2023. The figures represent offspring earnings, number of money earners, average earnings and the sire’s leading money earner for 2023.

The free QData Leaderboards also allow you to view the total and average earnings of 3- and 4- year-olds for each sire, plus the number of offspring in each age group.

Here are the top reining sires of 2023:

10. Whizkey N Diamonds

2006 buckskin (Topsail WhizPrincess In Diamonds by Shining Spark)

Offspring Earnings: $732,374

9. Colonels Smoking Gun

1993 sorrel (Colonelfourfreckle

- Katie Gun by John Gun)

Offspring Earnings: $750,237

8. Shiners Voodoo Dr

2007 palomino (Shining Spark - Voodoo Chic by Smart Chic Olena)

Offspring Earnings: $864,405

7. Shine Chic Shine

2007 palomino (Smart Chic Olena - Ebony Shines by Shining Spark)

Offspring Earnings: $886,608

#1 Gunnatrashya

6. Inferno Sixty Six

2012 sorrel (GunnatrashyaSnip O Gun by One Gun)

Offspring Earnings: $932,186

5. SG Frozen Enterprize

2009 dun (Frozen

Sailor - RS Rose SJ by SJ Enterprise)

Breeder: Marco

Franchini of Italy

Owner: Silver Spurs

Equine of Purcell, Oklahoma

Offspring Earnings: $952,875

Money Earners: 158

4. Gunners Special Nite

2004 sorrel (Colonels Smoking Gun - Mifs Doll by Mifillena)

Breeders: Kim and Debra Sloan of Newfoundland, New Jersey Owner: Turnabout Farm Inc of Aubrey, Texas

Average Earnings: $6,031

No. 1 Money Earner: Froze, 2020 red dun stallion out of Electric Cha Ching by Jacks Electric Spark, $85,297

Owner: John and Viola Scott of Sherman, Texas

Offspring Earnings: $1,418,337

Money Earners: 316

Average Earnings: $4,488

No. 1 Money Earner: Dream On Whiz, 2017 sorrel gelding out of Ms Sassy Whiz by Topsail Whiz, $129,803

2. Spooks Gotta Whiz

2007 bay (Spooks Gotta GunPrettywhizprettydoes by Topsail Whiz)

Breeder: Clint Haverty of Gainesville, Texas

Owner: Michell Anne Kimball of Collinsville, Texas

Offspring Earnings: $2,295,325

Money Earners: 275

Average Earnings: $8,347

Offspring Earnings: $1,136,683

Money Earners: 211

Average Earnings: $5,387

No. 1 Money Earner: All Nite Partier, 2020 sorrel stallion out of Topsail Survivor by Topsail Whiz, $138,592

3. Magnum Chic Dream

1996 sorrel (Smart Chic OlenaSailin Barbee by Topsail Cody)

Breeder: Guy Duponchel of France

No. 1 Money Earner: Mic Dropp, 2019 bay stallion out of Dun Dry Whiz by Conquistador Whiz, $146,147

1. Gunnatrashya

2006 sorrel (Colonels Smoking Gun - Natrasha by Trashadeous)

Breeder: Katarina Dorminy of Williamston, South Carolina Owner: Arcese Quarter Horses USA of Weatherford, Texas

Offspring Earnings: $2,353,379

Money Earners: 383

Average Earnings: $6,145

No. 1 Money Earner: Trash Talkin Spook, 2017 chestnut stallion out of I Spook by Smart Spook, $165,314

#2 Spooks Gotta Whiz

Carefree Games, an indie game development company from Arizona, is proud to announce the release of a horse sports virtual reality game, Horseback Riding Adventure. It is available at SideQuest or the App Lab.

The game features five modes: Reining, Jumping,

HORSEBACK RIDING ADVENTURE NEW VR GAME

REINING - JUMPING - TRAIL ADVENTURE - JOUSTING

Trail Riding, Endurance Racing, and Jousting. Each mode allows the player to immerse themselves into the sport. Players compete for coins, ribbons, and more in 3D horse arenas. As they progress from amateur to professional brackets, they learn more about the sport.

$5

Controller free use allows for realistic hands on the reins

Reining mode brings the full reining horse experience to the player. It features more than 12 realistic reining patterns, ranging from simple to complex. Players learn to do spins, slide stops, and more!

Jumping Mode allows the player to compete in various jumping classes and levels of difficulty. This mode offers more than a dozen unique jumping courses to practice and compete on. The player learns the rules of the sport, starting on easier courses before moving to increasingly difficult ones.

Trail riding mode offers a more calming and relaxing experience exploring the massive desert map, with over 20 square miles of unique terrain. Various types of wild animals roam the map, including herds of wild horses. Earn points by scouting the map, finding ghost towns, and discovering new wildlife species!

Horseback Riding Adventure is able to be completely controller free by using the latest version of Meta’s Hand Tracking software. This allows the game to track your hands, without a remote, and re-create them in game! No more having to memorize complex controls or learn to use joysticks! Just reach for the reins, pick them up, and off you go!

BRIAN BELL INTERVIEW

BY TRACY WAGER

Brian Bell is a lifelong horseman, driven by a deep passion for training and showing performance horses in NRHA reining horse competitions. As the son of George Bell, a former North Carolina State University football player who thrived under the legendary coaching of Lou Holtz(George, while at N.C. State, he earned Atlantic Coast Conference all-academic honors in addition to being named most valuable defensive player in the 1972 Peach Bowl that N.C. State won, dominating West Virginia by a score of 4913), Brian was instilled with the same relentless winning attitude and dedication from a young age. George Bell’s experiences on the football field, marked by Holtzes’ unwavering commitment to excellence, were passed down to Brian, shaping his approach to horsemanship.

Growing up, Brian absorbed the lessons of hard work, discipline, and perseverance from his father, who often shared stories of the gridiron battles and the high standards set by Holtz. These principles became the foundation of Brian’s own journey in the competitive world of reining horses.

Winning against the toughest cowboys and cowgirls in this world is no small feat.

For Brian, each victory is a testament to the countless hours of training, the unwavering dedication, and the special bond between rider and horse. It’s a moment to savor, a reward for the relentless pursuit of excellence, and a reflection of the values instilled in him as a young man.

error ending the day out of the money. Let’s be honest here, we’ve known each other for many years, and there was a time when you hit a groove, showing but not quite competing at the highest level. Something changed in you, Brian.

Q - What happened to renew your competitive edge and win at that level? Was it a change in training, mindset, or perhaps something else that allowed you to elevate your performance to beat the toughest in the sport?

Every win is a cherished memory, a culmination of hard work and the unique opportunity to ride and show a truly exceptional horse. For Brian Bell, it’s not just about the competition; it’s about living up to the legacy of determination and excellence passed down from his family, and celebrating the triumphs that make all the effort worthwhile.

Competitive Edge

You scored a big win on Wallace Wood’s beautiful mare Crystalized Whiskey at the 100X Cowtown reining show in Fort Worth, TX with the winning score of 229.5. The arena was packed with most of the top reiners in the world, executing endless runs with the slightest

A - Mindset to perform at that high of a level: The mindset for me is all about the horse that I have. All of the top horses that I have were easy to put at the top because of their ability and willingness.

Q - Being mentored by the legendary Bill Horn must have been a transformative experience. Reflecting on those days, how did his guidance shape your career and contribute to your success as a horseman?

A - I learned more from him about how to mentally prepare a horse to show than anyone else I mentored with.

Impact of Horses in Competitive Success

Today in the performance horse world, be it cow horse, reining, cutting, or even ranch events, the horses play a prominent role in determining who makes it to the winner’s circle. You and the other top guns are all on a fairly level playing field of skill sets and abilities.

Q - How has this impacted the sport overall, and what is your process for finding the perfect horse? Is it more about the horse’s bloodline, training, or a special connection that you look for?”

A - It’s a numbers game that you have to work to get on enough horses to try and find the best fit for your program.

Growth of Major Prize Money Events

Boom! Seemingly out of nowhere, these 100X Shows are blowing up the market. Now in August, we have The Run for a Million and the 100X in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Q - Would you ever have guessed there would be these huge prize money events in between the NRHA Derby and NRHA Futurity on the schedule? How do you think these events are changing the landscape of the sport, and what do they mean for competitors like

Brian with Wallace Wood

you?”

A - That 100x 4 yr old event allowed me to choose a show to show Crystlaized Whizkey at that she would show against horses her own age and give it a fair advantage to showcase her ability.

Story Behind Crystalized Whiskey (Disco)

Crystalized Whiskey – what a beautiful mare.

Q - With an impressive Lifetime Earnings milestone of $621,041 in the NRHA for this young mare, only foaled in 2020; What is the new NRHA record this young horse currently holds after being undefeated at 4 of these major events (the 2023 All Star Reining Stakes Open Futurity, in Ocala Florida, the 2023 Congress Open Futurity in Ohio, the 2023 NRHA Futurity in Oklahoma City, OK and now the 2024 100X Cowtown Classic Open Derby held in Fort Worth, TX)?

A - This is her lifetime earnings which makes her the youngest and highest money earning mare in NRHA history.

Q - Share with us the story of how you found this mare & how did she earn her barn name “Disco”?

A - Wallace found her on the internet and I drove to Purcell, OK to look at her. Wallace came up with the name disco due to her being a perlino and the way her coat sparkled in the sun.

Q - What stood out to you about her when you first saw her, and what has the journey been like with her leading up to this big win?

A - We met about 13 years before I married her in North Carolina when she worked for Mike McEntire. She is a great supporter and is my number one fan and biggest cheerleader.

Q - Carol & George Bell have always professed their love for horses and the sport of reining, do they still ride with you or have horses with in your program?

A - They are very active breeders and have several horses in training with me and show and win quite a bit each year.

A - She was stronger than the other babies that she was with. The journey has been truly a dream. She was easy to train and had a willing attitude and was a stand out the show pen since the beginning.

Q - How old was “Disco” when you first got her into your program?

A - Wallace purchased Disco as a yearling, she was picked up and brought to Bell Ranch and started in the winter.

Q - How did you meet Wallace Wood, owner of Crystalized Whiskey?

A - He sent me a horse nameed Halfbreed that needed to find a new career, we sold Halfbreed and found Disco.

Q - What is it like to have him as part of your team?

A - He has been nothing but a team player and allows me to do what I think the horse is ready for at whatever time it needs to be done.

Q - Are there any particular challenges or triumphs that have made this mare stand out even more in your career?”

A - She is always good about letting you know what you need to do to get her ready.

Q - Your ongoing relationship with Kim Horn is another significant aspect of your journey. How has her advice and mentorship that she has given you recently helped in maintaining and enhancing your show performance and with Crystalized Whiskey?

A - Kim has been pretty good about reminding me of the things I already know and helped me trust my program.

Family

Q - Naike, is a large part of Brian Bell Performance horses. How did you meet her, and what is it like working with such a wonderful partner?”

Q - What does that mean to you to have them in your life?

A - These wins are more special when you have family around you.

Q - How are you manage keeping your horses well shod, and are you doing anything different today in your approach to working with the farrier?

A - Serjio Ponce has been my farrier for more than 15 years and we have found good communication is the best way to keeping my horse shod correctly.

Q - You’re horses’ nutrition is a crucial aspect of their performance and well-being. What does your feeding regimen include? Do you use hay, pellets, cubes, supplements, or a combination of these? How does this diet contribute to their success?

A - We feed a combination of alfalfa hay, grass hay and grain from BlueBonnet Feeds.

Sponsors
:

Q - Any Sponsors that you would like to give a “Shout-Out” too?

A - These brands have been with Brian Bell Performance Horses for a while, and support what we do, we could not do it without them - Kyle Tack, BlueBonnet Feeds, Serna Boots, EquiFuse, TX Whiskey, Soft Ride, Saguaro Show Pads, HorsLic, Corro, Kiser Arena, Classic Equine, Magna Pro Plus, Cinch, & Siering Bits.

Q - Achieving success at the highest level requires more than just talent. Can you share three essential tips for our readers who aspire to reach the top in their disciplines? Specifically, how do mindset, horse care, and building a strong team play integral roles in this journey?

A - 1. Bill horn said you can speed it up in the last 5 minutes but there is no way in hell you can slow it down.

2. My dad told me when you are not practicing, someone else is, and when you meet them they will be tougher to beat than you thought.

3. Horse care is the big key. Without a sound horse you will have nothing to compete with mentally or physically.

COVER PHOTO BY CHELSEA SCHNIEDER

“Disco” is now the highest money earning mare in NRHA history, adding $150,000 to her already $470,000 in lifetime earnings, puts this phenomenal mare at over $620,000!!!

She also remains UNDEFEATED!

Proudly owned by Wallace Wood

Crystalized Whizkey & Brian Bell Scoring at 229.5 ��

“Disco”, Brian, Wallace, George & Carol Bell

KIMZEY WINS

2024 PBR World Finals Event Champion

After competing in just 12 regular-season events due to injury, Sage Steele Kimzey went 3-for-4 at the 2024 PBR World Finals: Unleash The Beast - Championship to take the title

By Darci Miller

ARLINGTON, Texas – When Sage Kimzey walked off the AT&T Stadium dirt for the final time at the 2024 PBR World Finals: Unleash The Beast – Championship, he had two things in his hands.

His 2-year-old son, Steele, and a big check for $350,000.

It was a fitting end to his first full season in the PBR, as Kimzey ultimately made the jump from the PRCA – where he’s a seven-time bull riding world champion – to spend more time with his family.

And, of course, to win.

“One of the number one things that I wanted to do with the season was get to spend more time with this little guy right here,” Kimzey said. “So being able to travel on the weekends, ride bulls on the weekends, and end up winning a lot of money doing that—”

Kimzey paused, laughing as Steele growled and repeatedly head-butted his chest. “Really? Are you a dinosaur?”

After one of the most successful careers in PRCA history, Kimzey made waves when he first joined the Carolina Cowboys in the PBR Camping World Team Series and then decided to compete full-time on the Unleash The Beast. He joined a historically talented rookie class – yes, the 29-year-old, seven-time world champion was a PBR rookie – and expected to contend for the 2024 PBR world title.

But then he injured his elbow at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

“I started out the year and rode five out of six bulls,” Kimzey said. “I was sitting good, everything was rolling, and then I had the injury at the NFR and never could really get over it. Ended up having to have surgery, and it kind of derailed the whole season.

“It’s just injuries. It’s what we all face.”

Kimzey competed in just 12 regular-season Unleash The Beast events and was ranked No. 21 heading into Eliminations on May 9-12 at Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas. The Top 15 in the standings would advance directly to the Championship. Anyone else would have to advance via the aggregate if they wanted to avoid Ride For Redemption.

Kimzey only knocked down one ride at Eliminations – 88 points on Jersey Tuff in Round 4 – but it was enough to punch his ticket to AT&T Stadium.

It was on the biggest stage that Kimzey truly shined, going 3-for-4 to win the coveted PBR World Finals event title, 537 points towards the UTB World Championship standings, and a grand total of $411,200.

“It feels great, especially after the tough season that I’ve had,” Kimzey said. “It feels great to come in here and show what my talent can be.”

Kimzey began the weekend with 89 points in a rematch with Jersey Tuff in Round 1. He was bucked off by Army Slasher in 1.2 seconds in Round 2 and came into Championship Sunday sitting in a five-way tie for fourth place.

He immediately distanced himself from the pack in Round 3, riding Preachers Kid for 91 points.

“I was really excited to have him,” Kimzey said. “He’s been giving guys fits for years, but it’s really just a move that he’s got right out of there. He kind of hops and skips and gets a lot of guys shook loose before he turns back, and I knew if I could weather that storm, everything could get smooth whenever he finally found a spot and turned back. It was tough to get there, but as soon as he found a spot and turned back, I had a real comfortable seat on him and finished him strong, so it was good.”

In Round 4, Kimzey rode Let’s Roll for 89.5 points, clinching the World Finals event title when No. 2 John Crimber bucked off his final bull.

Kimzey was the only rider to go 3-for-4 at the Championship.

After the disappointing season, the injury, the surgery, and spending most of the season on the outside looking in, Kimzey ultimately finished the year ranked No. 7.

Not bad for a down year for a 29-year-old rookie.

Kimzey joins a storied list of World Finals event winners that includes Ty Murray, J.B. Mauney, J.W. Hart, Silvano Alves and Jose Vitor Leme.

Of all the events to win, this is the one.

“The world titles definitely are on top of it, but this is probably a close second right behind them, for sure,” Kimzey said. “Especially this being my first year in the PBR, and this transition I’ve made in my career – it was the second goal on the list, right behind winning the world over here. So I’m super happy to come in, compete well, and come home with the title.”

Photo courtesy of Andy Watson/Bull Stock Media

Horse Power Keeps Mary Yates Rolling with Victory at Clovis

Marty Yates came into 2024 looking for a restart

For nearly a decade, the Stephenville, Texas, cowboy has been a standard-setter in tie-down roping. From 2014-22, Yates was a qualifier for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and is fast approaching $2 million in career earnings.

The 2023 season was very different.

Yates finished the campaign outside the top 30 in the PRCA | RAM World Standings, ending his streak of consecutive NFR appearances at nine.

A year later, Yates has regained his stride and his enjoyment in rodeo. And it’s all thanks to a 6-year-old mare named Cyndy.

“She’s been incredible for me, and I just can’t say enough about her giving me the opportunity to win,” Yates said after his victory at the Clovis (Calif.) Rodeo over the weekend. “Last year, I came off my first year to not make the Finals in 10 years. It’s kind of a new start for me and it feels fresh, and everything feels fun again.”

Marty Yates

Yates’ partnership with Cyndy began in January when he purchased the horse from fellow tie-down roper Neil Dove. It’s a move that has certainly yielded positive results thus far.

Over the winter run, Yates has picked up significant paydays at

some of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s biggest events, including the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, and RODEOHOUSTON. Coming into Clovis, Yates already had nearly $50,000 in earnings to his credit and was sitting fifth in the world.

Those numbers will continue to climb after another big weekend. Yates placed in three of the four rounds at Clovis.

6666 NRHA Derby June 11-23rd in OKC

The 2024 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel is approaching fast, and there are more ways than ever to enter a class customized to you and your horse’s skill level and goals.

In 2023, the event broke records with the highest payout in history—$1.57 million. Exhibitors will not want to miss the fun June 11-23 at the OKC Fairgrounds, as this year’s event offers the most added money to Levels (L) 3, 2, and 1 for both the Open and Non Pro compared to all other derbies!

The guaranteed payouts for champions are:

L4 Open – $100,000

L3 Open – $35,000

L2 Open – $20,000

L1 Open – $10,000

Prime Time Open – $5,000

L4 Non Pro – $50,000

L3 Non Pro – $20,000

L2 Non Pro – $15,000

Presented by Markel

L1 Non Pro – $5,000

Prime Time Non Pro – $5,000

Youth Non Pro – $2,000

Masters Non Pro – $2,000

Enter the Highest Added Money 4-year-old Stakes

NRHA proudly offers the 4-year-old Stakes featuring the highest added money open aged event, not restricted by nomination, stallion etc.

To recognize the popularity of the 4-year-old Stakes divi-

sion and to support its longevity, the NRHA Board added an additional $100,000 beginning in 2023, bringing the total added money of the Tamarack Ranch Open Stakes to $110,000 and $50,000 in the Colston Paving Inc. Non Pro Stakes.

Novice Horse Opportunities

Rick Clark and his brother Brent are the naming sponsors of the Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Open and Non Pro Novice Horse divisions, which are open to horses who have won less than $10,000 as of May 1. The Open division boasts $15,000 in added money, while the Non Pro features $10,000.

$15,000-Added Amateur Division

Non Pros eligible for L1 or L2 who have earned less than $100,000 and meet the full criteria are eligible for the $15,000 Elementa Amateur Division. View the Amateur Derby eligibility criteria here.

8 & Up Maturity

There will be an Open 8 & Up Maturity with $10,000 added to the Level 4 and $5,000 added to the Level 2. In the Non Pro, there is $15,000 added split across L1-4.

Rookies Compete for Free

Did you know the Toyon Ranch Rookie Free-For-All is happening at the Derby? NRHA Corporate Partner Toyon Ranch is paying all Rookie entry and judges fees!

$20,000-added Freestyle Reining

Have you watched this exciting competition from the stands and wanted to join the fun? Those interested in competing can send inquiries to Cheryl Cody at cheryl@ pro-management-inc.com and include a video of any past freestyle performances.

$3,500-Added Para Reining Championship

The Para-Reining Championship, sponsored by Dechra and NRHA Corporate Partner Hart Trailers, will be held on Thursday, June 20, at the Jim Norick Arena after the Invitational Freestyle. The championship will include classes for grades two, three, four, and five. Find more information and the entry form here.

High Point Buckle Awards

High-point titles are among the many honors bestowed at the 6666 NRHA Derby presented by Markel in June. The winners are crowned based on points awarded by their placings in two ancillary slates. Those with the highest point total receive a buckle crafted by show sponsor Montana Silversmiths to commemorate their success.

APHA Chrome Cash

Open and Non Pro competitors have an opportunity to enter the American Paint Horse Association’s Chrome Cash with $2,500 added to each division. The entry form can be found here.

6666

NRHA Derby presented by Markel Entries & Reservations

2024 NRHA Derby entries are due in office by May 15, and Ancillary entries are due in office by June 1. Stall Reservation Forms are due in office by May 16. To submit entries and reservations, visit nrhaderby. com/forms.

AQHA World Show: Over $4.3 million in Purse and Prizes

The American Quarter Horse Association is excited to announce that the 2024 Nutrena AQHA and Adequan® Select World Championship Shows will award a minimum of $4.3 million in purse and prizes! This represents a guaranteed $200,000 increase from 2023 when the show awarded more than $4 million in purse, prizes and exhibitor appreciation and a landmark prize pot to mark the

50th anniversary of the show.

To continually improve upon the marquee event, AQHA is proud to announce the increase in added money in addition to the other improvements made over the past year to the international event – all with no increase in entry fees from 2023.

“We are increasing the prize money by a minimum of

$200,000, with no entry fee increase for 2024,” said Jim Hunt, AQHA president. “We brought back World Show jackets in 2023 and all of this is in an effort to further promote the world show as a premiere event for exhibitors to attend across the equine industry.”

To find out more about how AQHA is improving the World Show experience for its exhibitors and for more information about the show, visit www.aqha. com/worldshow.

The 2024 AQHA World Championship Show, which is November 1-20 in Oklahoma City, marks the 50th anniversary for the event. The national qualifying period began August 1, 2023, and ends July 31, 2024.

Learn more about all the ways you can qualify.

For more information about the Nutrena AQHA World and Adequan® Select World, visit www.aqha.com/worldshow.

Party Like it’s 1974

Kick back with your horse show friends and family with a multitude of parties every week during the World Show. We’re celebrating the 50th anniversary of the AQHA World Show, which got its start in 1974 in Louisville, Kentucky. Opportunities exist for every level of exhibitor between the Nutrena AQHA and Adequan Select World Championship Shows, the Adequan AQHA Level 2 Championships and the AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions. The shows feature exciting competition, educational opportunities, a bountiful trade show and top-tier awards, prize money and exhibitor appreciation events. For more information, visit www.aqha.com/worldshow.

AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more information visit www. aqha.com/news or tune into our Podcast, “Let’s Talk AQHA.”

APHA Welcomes Dylan Davidson as Director of

Marketing & Creative Design

APHA welcomes Dylan Davidson to its team as the director of marketing & creative design. With a robust background in agricultural communications and digital content creation, Dylan brings a wealth of experience and innovation to the world’s second-largest equine breed association.

In his new role, Dylan will play a pivotal role in crafting and executing strategic marketing campaigns for APHA, leveraging his expertise to elevate APHA’s brand presence across various digital platforms.

Ranch horse added money exceeds $121,000 at 2024 APHA World Show

Ranch horse exhibitors, get ready to cash in at the 2024 APHA World Championship Show, which features $121,500 in added money for ranch events. The show features APHA world championships, sweepstakes and other special bonuses for Paints, along with all-breed Ranch Horse Triple Crown and International Ranch Horse Association Futurity and world championship events.

Priefert joins as an APHA Corporate Partner

, /

Priefert Manufacturing, a world leader in ranch equipment, has joined APHA’s corporate partner lineup. As a part of the agreement, Priefert Manufacturing is the official ranch equipment provider of APHA.

A leader in the field of livestock- and equine-management equipment, Priefert has deep roots in the United States.

Founded by Marvin Priefert in 1964, Priefert expanded to become one of the world’s largest farm-, ranch- and rodeo-equipment manufacturers.

NetJets® U.S. Jumping Team Starts European Season Strong Fourth Place Finish FEI Jumping Nations

Rome, Italy – The NetJets U.S. Jumping Team contested their first major European Nations Cup of the 2024 season with a tightly contested fourth-place finish in the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Rome CSIO5* held at the iconic Piazza di Siena at Villa Borghese. The team finished with a final total of eight faults over two rounds of competition in a hotly contested bid for the podium determined by the last few riders in round two.

“Overall, I think there are a lot of positives to take away from the result today. To be tied for a podium position and just get bumped by a few tenths of a second is a tough pill to swallow, but we really had to fight to stay in it and everyone learned something today,” said

Chef d’Equipe Robert Ridland. “Aaron and Carissimo were impressive as a combination and put in our only double clear of the class, and both Lillie and Karl had an unfortunate rail in the second round after very strong, clear efforts in round one. Alise bounced back to improve on her score in her second go, so I think all and all, it’s a good start to a very competitive few weeks for us here in Europe and sets the tone for us to be in the hunt for podium finishes at these major Nations Cup events.”

Lillie Keenan (New York, N.Y.) and her seasoned partner Argan de Beliard were first in the team rotation to test the track. The course, set on the sprawling grass of the Villa Borghese, would test combinations throughout, including a spooky plank vertical after the water and a 1.60m triple combination early in the design. The pair were calm and collected as the team’s trailblazers, notching the first clear round of the day for the U.S. contingent.

Second in for the team was Alise Oken (Charlotte, N.C.) aboard Gelvera, who also represented the team in Abu Dhabi earlier this year. The duo was caught out early by the triple combination, having both B and C elements down. The pair finished on a total of 12, with two combinations left in round one for the U.S.

Caracole de la Roque has shown her talent and speed with Karl Cook (Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.) and the pair delivered as the third partnership in the rotation for the team. The pair were sharp and efficient, adding another clear round behind Keenan’s to the team’s first round total.

As the anchor combination, Aaron Vale (Williston, Fla.) and Carissimo 25 were pressured to keep the team in the hunt for the top three positions on the leaderboard needing a clear to ensure the team moved to the second round on zero faults. The experienced Vale and Carissimo 25, who were also teammates of Oken and Gelvera’s in Abu Dhabi, rode the track to near perfection, pushing the team through to round two on zero faults.

The U.S. entered round two tied with Germany on zero faults as the competition picked up its intensity in the second round with little room for error at the top of the leaderboard. Keenan and Argan

Cup Rome

de Beliard, a 2010 Selle Français gelding owned by Chansonette Farm and cared for by Cory Tual, delivered another exceptional round for the team, but their early rub at fence one came back to bite them, as the rail dropped late in the class, but before they crossed through the timers, counting for their four faults.

Oken and Gelvera, a 2011 KWPN mare owned by Hi Hopes Farm, LLC, and cared for by Gail Shepherd and Kerstin Mutter, improved on their first-round score, just adding eight faults to their total, with an element of the triple and delicate plank after the water dropping towards the end of the course. The pair’s eight faults with Keenan’s four would push the final two combinations to deliver to keep the team’s strong position at the top of the leaderboard.

As a pair still gaining valuable team experience together, Cook and Caracole de la Roque, a 2012 Selle Français mare owned by Signe Ostby and cared for by Tessa Falanga, showed the growing trust in their partnership with another solid round as third in the team rotation. The pair were the second combination on the team to have the plank drop from the cups but finished on just four in their second trip around the course.

The anchor combination played an important role in the results, with team totals changing drastically in the second round. Vale and Carissimo 25, a 2013 Holsteiner gelding owned by Debbie Smith and cared for by Nicky Cook, were tasked with delivering a clear for the team to keep them secure on eight faults in a fight for the podium. The pair were insync and consistent, producing the only double clear effort for the team over both rounds. Their time of 77.16 seconds barely pushed Belgium into the third-place position, with the U.S. taking fourth on a final two-round total of eight faults. Germany took the win with a clean score sheet, finishing on zero faults, while Ireland took second on a total of four.

The NetJets U.S. Jumping Team will now head to the Longines League of Nations St. Gallen CSIO5* next week as their next outing as part of their European season.

Follow US Equestrian

Stay up to date on the U.S. Jumping Teams by following USA Jumping on Facebook and Instagram and US Equestrian on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Use #USAJumping.

The USEF International High Performance Programs and the USEF High Performance Pathway Programs are generously supported by the USET Foundation, the philanthropic partner to USEF. High Performance Program support is also provided by the USOPC and USEF sponsors and members.

AQHA Executive Committee Approves Animal Welfare Rules

Here are the recommendations/rule changes the Executive Committee approved to be implemented from the Animal Welfare Commission: Accept the Conformation Testing Task Force recommendations to implement a scoring system based on thermography, flexion and palpation of the neck to determine if a horse is Fit to Compete. Conformation testing at the Youth World and World Show will include (a more detailed press release on the

scoring system and testing protocols is forthcoming) : Fifteen finalists in Level 3 classes with preliminaries. Randomly select 25% (minimum of 10) of the horses in Level 3 one-go and Level 2 classes for testing. Testing must be done 24 hours to one hour before the scheduled start of the class, or the day before for an 8 a.m. final.

Appoint a task force to develop microchipping, vaccination and biosecurity protocols to be implemented at AQHA world shows.

Change, Alternative Number 1 (VIO405.12), the approved therapeutic dosage for dexamethasone from 2.0mg/100lbs to 1.0mg/100lbs administered IV, IM or orally up to 12 hours before competition. Eliminate Alternatives 2 and 3. Dexamethasone may be administered IV at 0.5mg/100lbs by a veterinarian for the treatment of acute hives up to six hours before competition with the submission of a medication report form. This change will become

effective on September 1, 2024. Approve the emergency use of flunixin (Banamine) for colic or an ophthalmic emergency. Flunixin, in addition to one other substance listed in VIO405.1VIO405.7 (NSAIDS) may be found in the same plasma and/ or urine sample. The flunixin must be administered by a veterinarian, a medication report form must be submitted and the horse withheld from competition for 24 hours. This change will be implemented immediately.

Make the submission of online medication report forms mandatory by January 1, 2026. The Animal Welfare

USDA awards millions in Farm Bill funding

The money will be used to enhance prevention, preparedness, early detection, and rapid response for diseases threatening livestock in the United States

The US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced it is awarding over $22.2 million to 81 projects led by 48 states, universities, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, and industry organizations. The goal of the funding is to provide better early detection, enhance prevention, preparedness, and rapid response to the diseases that are most threatening to United States livestock.

“Bolstering animal disease preparedness is crucial because these diseases devastate livestock and hardworking farmers whose animals are affected, and threaten America’s access to safe, healthy, affordable food,” said Jenny Lester Moffitt, under secretary for USDA marking and regulatory programs, in an organizational release.1 “APHIS plays an important leadership role in protecting against current and future threats to US animal health, and these investments are key to supporting this work.”

According to an organizational release, the USDA awarded funding is though the 2018 Fam Bill’s National Disease Preparedness and Response Program (NADPRP) and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN).1 Along with this funding, APHIS is announcing an additional investment of $900,000 in Fam Bill Funds to replenish the national stockpile of classical swine fever vaccinations.

Some of the organizations receiving funding:

NADPRP will receive $16.2 million from APHIS to support 74 new projects through the NADPRP. The new projects will help states develop and practice plans to control disease outbreaks quickly, train responders and producers to perform critical animal response outbreak responses activities and increase producers using effective and practical biosecurity measures. The funding will also be used to educate livestock owners on disease prevention and what happens during an outbreak, support animal movement decisions during a disease outbreak, and more.

APHIS is also reviewing proposals submitted in a separate NADPRP funding opportunity for Tribes and Tribal organizations with plans to award that funding in June 2024.

NAHLN will receive $1 million from APHIS plus an additional $5 million directly to NAHLN laboratories for any infrastructure needs. These projects will also enhance early detection of high-consequence animal diseases as well as improve emergency response capabilities of NAHLN’s national network of veterinary diagnostic laboratories.

The National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) permits APHIS to stockpile animal vaccinations as well as other related products to use in the case of an outbreak of a certain highconsequence foreign animal disease such as foot-and-mouth disease, classical swine fever, and African swine flu.

Arizona Ridge Riders sign Eli Vastbinder for 2024 season

By Mandi McCary

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Western sports media and entertainment company Teton Ridge, owner of Arizona’s professional bull riding team, the Arizona Ridge Riders, announced today that the team has signed PBR (Professional Bull Riders) veteran Eli Vastbinder (Statesville, North Carolina).

“Adding Eli to our roster was part of a strategic move for the team,” commented Ridge Riders Coach Colby Yates. “With Colten Fritzlan out due to injury, we needed to get the closest match to his riding style and mindset as we could. We needed a guy who just does things correctly, and that is Eli. He has a diverse set of skills that are all highlighted by the fact that he keeps things simple - which is what I am looking for as a coach. He’s talented but humble, tougher than nails, and has a winning mindset with a positive attitude, which will mesh well with our current locker room.”

The PBR Teams league launched in 2022, featuring the world’s top bull riders competing on eight teams in five-on-five bull riding lowing expansion to 10 teams, the 2024 season begins in Oklahoma City on July 12, culminating in a team championship Oct. 18-20 in Las V

Having narrowly lost the inaugural season championship in the final game in November 2022 and repeating the same down-to-the-wire loss in 2023, the Ridge Riders are invested now more than ever in strength ening and training their team for the upcoming 2024 season.

As the only rookie to ever record four 90-point rides at the PBR World Finals in PBR’s separate individual competition, Vastbinder was crowned the 2021 PBR Rookie of the Year and hit the gas on his career. The tough-as-nails veteran became well-known to fans worldwide after star ring in the acclaimed Amazon Prime docuseries “The Ride,” showcasing the balance between his life at home with his growing family and on the road as one of the top bull riders in the world.

FORT WORTH – For the second year in a row, the National Cutting Horse Association is proud to announce the NCHA World Finals, presented by Broke Spur Ranch, will take place during the 2024 Metallic Cat World Championship Futurity. Broke Spur Ranch, along with the World Finals Task Force, aka the silks program, and the NCHA, have committed and collaboratively raised an additional $200,000 to be

$200,000 ADDED TO THE 2024 NCHA WORLD FINALS

PRESENTED BY BROKE SPUR RANCH

spread throughout all divisions of the World Finals.

The silk sponsors include:

Badboonarising

Northern Star Equine

Adan Banuelos Performance

Horses

Double D & Co.

Dual Reyish

Frank and Bonnie Martin

Dacole Investment Co.

Clark Butte Ranch

Cindy Snyder

Carol Ward

Fossil Creek Ranch

Western Bloodstock

Countin Hot Checks

Metallics MVP

Hottish Metal

This will increase payouts in all classes, and NCHA will provide more information in the coming days. We want to thank all those involved in making this happen this year, and a special thanks to Broke Spur Ranch for returning as our title sponsor. Good luck to all the haulers running for the world this year.

For more information on the NCHA or upcoming events and schedules, please check out our website at nchacutting.com.

Statler Wright on Track to compete at WNFR in Las Vegas

Statler Wright’s draw for the Guymon (Okla.) Pioneer Days Rodeo felt very familiar. While he had never been matched up with Frontier Rodeo bucking horse Watch Kitty before, Wright knew some people who had.

And their prior results gave him great confidence he could have similar results.

“My brothers have all had pretty good success on her. One off the top of my head, I know in 2018, Ryder was 88 on her,” Wright said. “So, I knew I had a pretty good chance to win the rodeo.”

That family-based insight turned out to be correct as Wright had an 87.5-point ride to win the one-ride event, holding off Traylin Martin at 86 points. The win gave Wright another $3,920 in earnings for the season.

More importantly, the result keeps Wright on track to become the latest member of the family to make an appearance at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas this December. Statler is the son of ProRodeo Hall of Famer Cody Wright and his brothers, Rusty, Ryder and Stetson have all been to the NFR before.

With more than $75,000 in earnings already to his credit, Wright is sitting second in the PRCA | RAM World Standings. He finished 19th last season with nearly $113,000, while he earned a little more than $79,000 to place 20th in 2022 to start his professional career.

The secret to success this year has been keeping his composure and a positive outlook. The win in Guymon was his seventh overall victory in 2024, and his first since taking home the Southeastern Livestock Exposition title from Montgomery, Ala., back in mid-March.

Additionally, has piled up noteworthy paydays at some of the biggest winter rodeos, including Denver, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Houston, giving him a strong start as the summer schedule gets ready to start.

“It’s been really good. I’m just trying to stay positive. I think that was something the last two years I really struggled with was staying positive,” Wright said. “It seems like if you’ve got a positive attitude, it’s kind of hard to knock you off when you’re doing good.”

The next month of action is different for every ProRodeo competitor. Some take time to head home and prepare for the rigors of summer travel. Some continue to trek to PRCA events all over the country to try and add to their season totals before the bigger summer events start.

Wright is doing a little of both. He’s got a schedule that includes stops all over the country before heading back home to Utah to help his family host the Stetson Wright Invitational, a bull-rider only event at the Beaver County Fairgrounds on May 25.

The full-throttle approach is what Wright is accustomed to as he keeps his weekend warrior pace rolling. It might not always be easy, but it’s certainly rewarding as Wright has found himself in a great spot with an eye on December in Sin City.

“I’m super excited. It feels good not having to stress about anything right now really,” Wright said.

PHOTO: DALE HIRSCHMAN

Josh Frost Snares Victory at Xtreme Bull Riding Event

There are cowboys. And then there are those who live the cowboy way. Josh Frost might as well run his highlights in black and white. He is old school. His hobby is riding horses and roping. And he just happens to be one of the best bull riders in the world.

Frost continued his pursuit of a fourth consecutive berth in the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo with his third Xtreme Bulls victory this season. Frost eclipsed the competition Saturday night, claiming the average title with 179 points on two head at the George Paul Memorial Bull Riding in Del Rio, Texas.

“It was such a great environment. It was awesome, one of the coolest. They are totally into it,” Frost said. “It was so loud in there you could barely hear the whistle.”

Exciting News for 2024, we’ll be having 5 shows that will all be Triple Judged & some shows will be at Horse L overs Park!

Show Schedule

Frost brought the noise with his 91-point ride on Sutton Rodeo’s Schott in the Dark in the short round. The 28-year-old knew when he drew the stock, he had more than a shot in the dark to win the top prize.

“The whole short round there were a lot of great bulls. I don’t know if he was the best, but he dang sure was in the top 3,” Frost said. “It was a really good ride. I had seen that bull a couple of times and always wanted to get on him. He took me right, then he was going left. I wasn’t ever in a perfect position. But, yeah, it worked out.”

Frost arrived at the event No. 9 in the PRCA | RAM World Standings. His goals remain lofty after finishing second in the world standings last season fueled by netting third place at the NFR.

“Yep (I want to win it all). It’s easy to keep my focus. I love riding bulls and not that many people love doing their job. So, the motivation keeps me going,” Frost said. “And I know it’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

What makes Frost unique is his versatility. He has won the Linderman Award four straight years by earning money in tie-down roping, steer wrestling and team roping. He has yet to compete in those events this season as he worked through an injury but will do so next month.

“The plan is to get in the practice pen and get going. I do it because honestly, I love competing and I take a lot of pride in the Linderman Award,” Frost said. “And when I am not riding bulls, I thoroughly enjoy riding a horse and roping calves. It brings me joy I guess you could say that’s my hobby.”

PHOTO: DAVE JENNINGS

Second US human case of avian influenza is confirmed

By John Parkinson

A Michigan farmworker who had regular contact with livestock was confirmed to have contracted the virus.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has announced the state’s first case of influenza A (H5N1) virus, otherwise known avian influenza. in a human. The identified patient is a farmworker who had regular exposure to livestock infected with influenza A. The farmworker diagnosed with infection had mild symptoms and has since recovered.

“Michigan has led a swift public health response, and we have been tracking this situation closely since influenza A (H5N1) was detected in poultry and dairy herds in Michigan.

Farmworkers who have been exposed to impacted animals have been asked to report even mild symptoms, and testing for the virus has been made available,” Natasha Bagdasarian, MD, MPH, FIDSA, FACP, chief medical executive, for the State of Michigan, said in a statement.

Wildfire Risk Increasing for Rio Verde Foothills Ranches

NEW FIREWISE COMMUNITY FORMING TO DEFEND AREA

Once an expanse of open space where herds of cattle and wild horses roamed freely across the desert for generations, the Rio Verde Foothills has dramatically transformed. Today, it is densely populated

with homes and horse ranches, now plagued by an invasive weed that jeopardizes the safety and livelihood of the horse trainers, breeders, and owners residing in the area.

In the past year, the Rio

Verde Foothills has faced the stark reality of fire threats with two significant blazes—one to the north and another to the south—encroaching on the community’s perimeter. This has underscored the urgent

need for proactive measures. In response, local-residents are working to establish a Firewise Community in collaboration with the National Fire Protection Assoc. (NFPA). A recent stakeholders’ meeting, held at the Rural Metro Fire Station on Rio Verde Drive, brought together concerned residents and key officials. Among the speakers were the newly appointed Rio Verde Chief Kelly from Rural Metro Fire and Sunny Parker from Arizona Foothills 911.

Two critical conclusions emerged from the meeting. First, there is a pressing need to develop an active Firewise Community focused on creating defensible space around homes and structures to mitigate fire risks. Second, there is an urgent requirement for a detailed evacuation plan that can be easily disseminated to residents and coordinated with valleywide first responders in case of a major fire.

A fundamental principle in wildland firefighting is to avoid dead-end roads, which pose a significant risk during evacuations and wildfire fighting. This principle is particularly concerning for the Rio Verde Foothills, as the area predominantly consists of dead-end roads ending in unmanaged desert terrain overgrown with invasive weeds.

Chief Kelly expressed his intention to identify open spaces within the community that could serve as operational headquarters for first responders during emergencies. This proactive approach by Rural Metro demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing the present and future dangers to both people and animals.

Sunny Parker from Arizona Foothills 911 announced that the Cave Creek Rodeo Grounds will serve as a desig-

nated safe-haven for horse and large animal evacuations from the Rio Verde Foothills. This facility will be equipped with qualified transporters, meeting stringent standards to ensure they are authorized to enter wildfire zones upon receiving clearance from Fire Command. More folks with trailers to transport horses in evacuations are needed!

The sobering reality is that too few residents are taking the fire threat seriously, a challenge that Deb Catone, the new Firewise Community Operations Director, is determined to tackle. To raise awareness and mobilize the community, Firewise is organizing a general call-to-action meeting in July at the Troon North Golf Course Ballroom on Rio Verde Drive. The event will feature a panel of speakers discussing evacuation plans and Firewise defensible space initiatives. The public is strongly encouraged to attend and participate in the Q&A session following the presentations. Public input on evacuation plans are encouraged.

Anyone interested in supporting the Firewise Community effort in the Rio Verde Foothills is encouraged to contact Deb Catone at 240-346-7398. Your involvement can make a significant difference in safeguarding the community against the ever-present threat of wildfires.

Maricopa County Sheriffs can enforce evacuations from private property during a wildfire event. Law enforcement agencies, including county sheriffs, have the authority to mandate evacuations to protect public safety during emergencies such as wildfires. This authority is typically granted through state laws and emergency management regula-

tions, which allow law enforcement to take necessary actions to safeguard lives and property.

In Arizona, specific statutes provide law enforcement and emergency management officials the power to enforce evacuation orders. These orders are issued to ensure the safety of residents and first responders, as staying in areas threatened by wildfires can pose significant risks to life and health.

If a mandatory evacuation order is issued, residents are

PUBLIC MEETING AT TROON NORTH GOLF CLUB

BALLROOM IN JULY - WATCH BRIDLE & BIT AND FACEBOOK FOR DATE AND TIMES IN JULY EDITION!

required to comply. Failure to evacuate can lead to legal consequences, including fines or arrest. The primary goal of these evacuation orders is to prevent loss of life and to allow emergency services to manage the situation more effectively.

Anyone interested in supporting the Firewise Community effort in the Rio Verde Foothills is encouraged to contact Deb Catone at 240346-7398. Your involvement can make a significant difference in safeguarding the community against the everpresent threat of wildfires.

The Four Sixes Ranch is proud to host the 25th Return to the Remuda sale on September 27-28, 2024, in Guthrie, Texas. Marking its silver anniversary, this year’s sale promises to be an extraordinary event featuring an exceptional selection of ranch horses from renowned breeders. This year’s sale is slated for September 27-28, one week earlier than traditionally scheduled.

A demonstration showcasing the riding horses will be held on

25th Return to the Remuda sale

Friday, September 27, and will be followed by an open house where breeders can interact firsthand with stallions and engage with stallion owners, Four Sixes Ranch Stallion Manager Eric Van Reet, and staff.

An evening meal will be provided with compliments of the participating ranches as well as

a dance with music from Jake Hooker & The Outsiders.

Saturday, the sale will kick off with a benefit auction for the AQHA. Attendees can expect a seamless experience as they navigate through the offerings of elite equine talent, shop for each ranch’s branded merchandise, enjoy great food, reunite with old

friends, and meet new ones. Watch for sale details and updates available online at www.6666ranch.com and by following the Return to the Remuda Sale page on both Facebook and Instagram. The Return to the Remuda Sale Catalog will be available on the same website the first week of September or buyers can request one by calling the Four Sixes Ranch at (806) 596-4424.

About the Return to the Remuda Sale

For 25 years the Return to the Remuda Sale has offered registered American Quarter Horses (AQHA) of various ages from six historic ranches: Four Sixes Ranch, Beggs Cattle Company, Pitchfork Cattle Company, Tongue River Ranch, Wagonhound Land & Livestock, and King Ranch. All the participating ranches are winners of the prestigious AQHA Best Remuda Award, which recognizes the outstanding foundation that ranch horses laid for the American Quarter Horse. In addition to offering some of the best horses in the industry, the sale also serves as an unofficial reunion for American Quarter Horse enthusiasts.

QData Expands Roping Reporting in Earnings

QData is excited to announce that earnings from roping events are now listed as a separate line and pie-chart item on QStallions and on the QData Online Sire Reports. This enhancement comes in response to the significant growth in roping payouts being reported to the QData database, with more than $15 million in roping earnings recorded in 2023. This number is projected to increase further in 2024, underscoring the sport’s rising prominence in the Quarter Horse breeding world and the increased demand for detailed, specialized reporting.

Roping enthusiasts, breeders and industry professionals can also access comprehensive data through the QData Leaderboards, which provide an in-depth view of roping events. The Leaderboards feature the top 50 leading sires, dams, money earners and more, in all roping categories as well as in each roping discipline. This offers invaluable insights and highlights the top performers in the industry.

“Our decision to break out roping earnings reflects the increasing demand for detailed horse performance data in the sport,” said Robin Glenn, AQHA Director of data services. “We are committed to providing the most accurate and comprehensive information to our users, helping them make informed decisions and stay ahead in the competitive world of equine sports as it relates to the breeding industry.”

QData’s enhanced reporting on its Online Data Reports, QStallions and Leaderboards is designed to support the industry by offering easy access to data that empowers horse owners with the information necessary for successful marketing, evaluation and breeding decisions.

For more information, visit www.robinglennpedigrees.com. or tune into our Podcast, “Let’s Talk AQHA.”

A company of U.S. real estate developer Mark Bellissimo is suing Andreas Helgstrand’s and Waterland’s Global Equestrian Group over first right of refusal in the sale of the Wellington horse show.

In 2021, GEG entered an agreement with Wellington Equestrian Partners (WEP) to buy the Wellington International show grounds and its affiliate

Mark Bellissimo Sues Helgstrand’s Global Equestrian Group Over Sale Wellington Horse Show

companies that own the land, operate the horse shows, and hold the licenses to the competition.

In 2023 GEG tried buying the extra land for the expansion, but Bellissimo seemingly toyed with the Danish company, refusing to sell the land as long as he didn’t get his re-zoning permit to turn the land of the Global Dressage Festival into a

golf community.

In the course of the summer and autumn of 2023, GEG’s parent company Waterland decided to pull out and sell the horse show. At that time Helgstrand’s core business in Denmark was heavily under fire due to an undercover documentary Operation X, which Helgstrand tried to prevent from airing by going to court.

Nicklas Guldberg, Waterland’s investment director, told Bellissimo in the autumn of 2023 that it had engaged with investment banker William Blair & Company LLC to facilitate the sale of Wellington International.

The Bellissimo owned company WI FL Acquisitions LLC filed a lawsuit on 25 March 2024 alleging that GEG has bypassed WI FL Acquisitions LLC’s first right of refusal.

The Palm Beach Post wrote that “the lawsuit says WEP sold Wellington International to GEG because it would hold all equestrian assets for five to seven years and its parent company, known as Waterland, would make a significant investment from its “multibillion” fund to “enhance and expand Wellington’s Equestrian Venues.”

The PB Post further quoted that Bellissimo’s attorney Daniel Rosenbaum said GEG has failed to deliver on commitments that it would invest in Wellington International and its expansion.

Bellissimo does not seek to “regain ownership of the venue to keep it, but rather to sell it to a long-term player.” In the spring of 2024 Bellissimo’s Wellington Lifestyle Partners (WLP) started building the expansion on the land adjacent to Wellington International.

The lawsuit alleges GEG “knowingly misrepresented” its financial ability to Wellington Lifestyle Partners and other Bellissimo partners by failing to fulfll the purchase of 144 acres and paying for the rent of competitive licenses it leased.

In 2022, GEG signed an agreement to “deposit” $1 million in exchange for the 114 acres to expand Wellington International and consolidate all competitive disciplines on one showground.

The lawsuit says that in June 2023, less than two years after the sale, Kasper Kristiansen (the managing director of Waterland at the time and who “resigned” in August 2023) told Bellissimo that GEG would sell Wellington International as the company had defaulted on its loans with its primary lenders and was no longer able “to purchase or lease any land or make any material commitments to expand the business.”

2024 America’s Horse in Art Show & Sale

America’s Horse in Art Show & Sale, a fundraiser for the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, opens with a special reception on Saturday, August 10, in Amarillo, Texas.

2024 America’s Horse in Art

In its 16th year, America’s Horse in Art features oneof-a-kind pieces from select artists and includes oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, charcoal, bronze and other media in artworks depicting the American Quarter Horse lifestyle.

The 2024 America’s Horse in Art Show & Sale opens Saturday, August 10, at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in Amarillo, Texas. A reception will be held at 6 p.m. for attendees to meet and mingle with some of the participating artists and have the first opportunity to view and purchase art. Guests can participate in a fixed-price, luck-of-the-draw sale and enjoy entertainment by Nelson McKinney.

In its 16th year, America’s Horse in Art features oneof-a-kind pieces from select artists and includes oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil, charcoal, bronze and other media in artworks depicting the American Quarter Horse lifestyle. The 2024 show features the works of 31

renowned Western artists. The show will also honor one artist with the Steel Dust Award, sponsored by Art of the West magazine. The Steel Dust Award is selected by a panel of judges based on the artistic merit of one art piece that showcases the role the American Quarter Horse plays in the western lifestyle. Steel Dust, foaled in 1843 in Kentucky and brought to Texas in 1846, was the first horse to bring attention to the qualities of the American Quarter Horse in the Southwest. An outstanding racing horse, Steel Dust was the most influential sire in the Texas lines of the American Quarter Horse.

An online preview of the show is available at www. americashorseinart.com. Here you will also find information regarding the participating artists and proxy information for the opening night sale. After opening night, the remaining art will be available for purchase in person and online until October 12. All artwork will remain on display at the Museum through the end of the exhibit, October 12.

About the American Quarter Horse Foundation

The American Quarter Horse Foundation connects people and horses through charitable giving to support programs that preserve our horse’s legacy and further the well-being of the American Quarter Horse and the Quarter Horse family.

By Leslie Potter/US Equestrian Millstreet, Ireland

– The Defender U.S. Eventing Team concluded a successful outing

Defender U.S. Eventing Team Finishes in Second Place at FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ in Ireland

at the FEI Eventing Nations Cup CCIO4*-NC-S – Ireland on Sunday, securing a team second-place finish at the event held at the Millstreet International Horse Trials. Millstreet is part of the European Development Tour, which is intended to give upand-coming combinations experience competing overseas in a team environment.

All U.S. combinations

finished in the top half of the division, which saw 51 starters from seven countries.

Caroline Pamukcu (Springtown, Pa.) with King’s Especiale, a 2015 KWPN gelding owned by Redfield King’s HX Group, posted the top individual score for the team, finishing on a 37.1 after adding only 0.8 cross-country time penalties to their dressage score. Jenny Caras (Buckhead,

Ga.) and Sommersby, the 2012 Holsteiner gelding she co-owns with Jerry Hollis, also turned in a double-clear show jumping round with just two time penalties from cross-country to finish on a score of 38.2.

Alyssa Phillips (Fort Worth, Texas) and her own and Julie Phillips’s 2009 Holstener gelding, Oskar, had a phenomenal dressage test with a score of 30.8, which put them in seventh place after the first phase. With one rail in show jumping and 3.6 cross-country time penalties, they completed with a 38.4. Emily Hamel (Aiken, S.C.) and Corvett, a 2007. Holsteiner gelding owned by Black Flag Option, went double-clear in the show jumping phase and added 8 time penalties from crosscountry to their dressage score, finishing with a 44.2.

Molly Duda (Menlo Park, Calif.) and her own Disco Traveler, a 2010 Oldenburg gelding, competed as an individual combination.