Bridle & Bit Magazine December 2024 by Bridle & Bit

BRIDLE & BIT DECEMBER 2024

Teton Ridge Acquires The Cowboy Channel, The Cowgirl Channel, Expands Western Sports Footprint

By Maury Brown

Tapping into Western sports and entertainment, Teton Ridge has acquired The Cowboy Channel, The Cowgirl Channel, and streaming platform The Cowboy Channel+ from Rural Media Group. In doing so, Teton Ridge places itself as the largest media rights holder of Western sports. Teton Ridge Was Founded In 2019

Founded in 2019, Teton Ridge is owned by TWG Global, which is led by Thomas Tull, a private investor who is part-owner of Pittsburgh Steelers and founder of production company Legendary Entertainment as well as Chair of Teton Ridge, and Mark Walter, founder and CEO of both Guggenheim Partners and TWG and CEO and coowner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. With additional strategic investment from investors including Jim Breyer and the Lee Bass Family Office, Teton Ridge has placed itself firmly in the growing niche of Western sports – primarily rodeo – and lifestyle. According to Teton Ridge, The Cowboy Channel and The Cowgirl Channel collectively reach an audience of over 100 million people across social, audio, digital/ OTT, and linear platforms, broadcasting more than 600 live rodeo events annually. Linear TV distribution for The Cowboy Channel is currently on the likes of DISH, DIRECTV, Comcast, Charter, Altice. The Cowgirl Channel is currently exclusive to DISH. Teton Ridge has existing distribution agreements with FOX, FS1, FS2 and DAZN.

Teton Ridge And The American Rodeo

While key rodeo events have aired on FOX and FS1, Teton Ridge takes over a network that broadcasts more than 600 live rodeo events each year. As part of the acquisition, they will take over an exclusive licensing agreement with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) through 2028, which includes the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Calgary Stampede, Cheyenne Frontier Days, Pendleton Round-Up, San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, National Finals Rodeo (NFR), and more. That content will be added to IP rights that Teton Ridge already has with the American Rodeo Contender Series and The American Performance Horseman. 14

The American Rodeo by Teton RidgeThe American Rodeo by Teton Ridge

In an exclusive interview with me for Forbes, Teton Ridge CEO Deirdre Lester said that one of the goals of the purchase is to expand distribution via major Multichannel Video Programming Distributors (MVPDs) and partner with over-the-top (OTT) networks. “What the acquisition is about for Teton Ridge is taking what already exists and advancing it in a modern way, because currently, The Cowboy Channel is predominantly a linear network,” said Lester. “While it does reach over 100 million plus people across social, digital OTT, it is programmed for linear primarily. We’re never going to walk away from the linear broadcast, but there’s just so much opportunity to accelerate advance, and grow.”

Teton Ridge’s Distribution Plans

To that end, Teton Ridge plans to expand live streaming and ondemand with Cowboy Channel+. Lester said that one of the key growth factors is the ability to do storytelling and increase content. “Several years back, we acquired the American Rodeo,” she said. “If you look at what we did with the American we took the single-day rodeo and turned it into a season-long series that goes from August through April and culminates in the championship at Arlington, Texas…. The same will be true of The Cowboy Channel.” “The partnership with Rural Media Group and The Cowboy Channel brought rodeo to living rooms across the world in a manner never seen before,” said Tom Glause, CEO of Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association. “Rodeo is a showcase of the Western lifestyle and we are excited to work with Teton Ridge on the continued evolution of promoting our athletes and communities to millions of fans.” Financial details were not revealed regarding Teton Ridge’s acquisition from Rural Media Group (RMG). While the acquisition sees Teton Ridge owning The Cowboy Channel, The Cowgirl Channel, and Cowboy Channel+, RMG will still continue to operate its flagship network RFD-TV, RFD-TV NOW, the network’s live streaming and on-demand service, and RURAL RADIO on Sirius XM 147, along with FarmHER + RanchHER. “We are confident that The Cowboy Channel and The Cowgirl Channel assets are in the best possible hands,” said Raquel Gottsch Koehler, Co-Owner of Rural Media Group and daughter of the late founder and media visionary Patrick Gottsch. “Our father built The Cowboy Channel to celebrate and elevate Western sports, and Teton Ridge’s commitment to preserving the authenticity of the Western lifestyle aligns with that vision. We are proud to pass the torch to a team that shares our deep passion for rodeo and Western sports, and we believe they will continue to grow the channel’s legacy while reaching new audiences and honoring the traditions we cherish.”

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SOUTH POINT ARENA AND EQUESTRIAN CENTER CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF PRIEFERT PAVILION South Point Arena and Equestrian Center is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Priefert Pavilion. Construction of this state-of-the-art equestrian facility began in 2013 and it opened to the public in 2014, expanding the existing Arena and Equestrian Center. The Priefert Pavilion added an impressive 100,000 square feet of competition space to South Point Arena, featuring two new climate-controlled arenas within its innovative design. Additionally, the current Arena and Equestrian Center boasts over 1,200 climatecontrolled stalls, an indoor practice arena and a 4,600-seat main show arena. Altogether, the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center along with the Priefert Pavilion offer more than 240,000 square feet for events.

Founded by Marvin Priefert in 1964, Priefert has grown into one of the largest farm, ranch, and rodeo equipment manufacturers in the world. Now in its third generation of leadership, Priefert is still family owned and operated, and has expanded its scope beyond just manufacturing livestock equipment. Priefert’s Steel Division has rapidly developed into one of the most dynamic aspects of the company, leading to unprecedented growth in their steel processing capabilities, allowing Priefert to supply a variety of steel products to manufacturers, service centers, and other volume buyers. Headquartered in Mt Pleasant, TX, Priefert also operates plants in Fort Worth, TX and Benton, AR. Visit www.priefert.com for more information.

About South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa

“When we began our partnership with South Point, we did so because it was such an honor and privilege to simply be associated with them and what they represent,” said Eddie Priefert. “Over the years, we’ve gotten to know the Gaughan’s and the staff – folks like Ryan Growney, Steve Stallworth, Bill Purcell – today, they are just like family. We’re all so similar in thought process and philosophy, the importance we place on family, friends, and work ethic coincides perfectly, making it a perfect partnership.” South Point is the only property in Las Vegas to offer four stateof-the-art transformable arenas, perfectly suited for the city’s vibrant event scene. Known as “Vegas Cowboy Central,” South Point hosts over 46 weeks of equestrian events a year, catering to many niches within the industry, from performance horse competitions to breed shows. It has also been instrumental in hosting some of the country’s largest Western lifestyle events, including the Indian National Finals Rodeo, Professional Bull Riders’ Challenger Finals, the World Series of Team Roping and Taylor Sheridan’s Run For A Million. “Priefert Pavilion was the perfect addition to the Arena and Equestrian Center,” stated Steve Stallworth, general manager of the South Point Arena & Equestrian Center. “With the Priefert Pavilion, we have the opportunity to host numerous events each year and welcome countless guests. This addition, made 10 years ago, has allowed us to attract larger events to Las Vegas and expand our positive economic impact.” For more information on upcoming events and the South Point Arena and Equestrian Center, please visit southpointarena.com.

About Priefert

Featuring more than 2,100 guestrooms, South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa overlooks the famous Las Vegas Strip and the serenity of the surrounding mountainscape. Each oversized guest room features state-of-the-art LED televisions as well as WiFi with high-speed internet connections. Guests visiting South Point Hotel will experience affordable luxury through a casino offering top-of-the-line gaming technology, over 2,200 slot and video poker machines, more than 60 table games and a separate race and sports book area, 11 restaurants, including the award-winning Michael’s Gourmet Room, world-class Costa Del Sur Spa and Salon, a 400-seat showroom featuring headliner entertainment, a 700-seat Bingo room, a 16-screen Cinemark movie complex, a state-of-the-art 64-lane bowling center, a 52,000-square foot Conference Center and an 80,000-square foot Exhibit Hall. South Point Hotel is also home to the Tournament Bowling Plaza, a multi-million-dollar professional bowling tournament facility. In addition, South Point Hotel has the finest equestrian event facility in the country. The 240,000 square feet of event space features three climate-controlled arenas, vet clinic, feed store, more than 1,200 climate-controlled stalls and plays host to some of the country’s most unique events. South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa is at 9777 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89183. “Official Hotel and Casino of Las Vegas Motor Speedway” and sponsor of the October 2024 Las Vegas NASCAR Cup series race, South Point 400. For more information or for room reservations, call 702-7967111 or visit the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa website. Connect with South Point on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.

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2024 AQHA Superhorse Crowned During the past few weeks, the top American Quarter Horses and their exhibitors competed at the 2024 Nutrena AQHA World Championship Show; AQHA Select World Championship Show, presented by Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan); Adequan® Level 2 Championships; and AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions classes. The show ended November 20 at the OKC Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City.

Horseman Jimmy Daurio. Cowpuncher Cadillac placed fourth in senior ranch riding, sixth in performance halter stallions and seventh in open working western rail. Placing fourth is Cee My Special Nite, owned by Libby Williams Haydon of Phoenix, Arizona. The 2017 buckskin stallion by Gunners Special Nite and out of Cee Dun It Do It by Hollywood Dun It, was bred by McQuay Stables LLC of Pilot Point, Texas. Cee My Special Nite earned 20 points and was shown by AQHA Professional Horsemen Ryan Kail, Pete Kyle and J. D. Yates. Cee My Special Nite was the reserve world champion in senior heading, placed ninth The 2024 AQHA Superhorse in performance halter stallions Award is the top honor at the and 10th in senior reining. Nutrena AQHA World, and it’s Placing fifth is Hez Blazin awarded to the horse that earns Trouble, owned by Susan Wilthe most points in three or more son of Gainesville, Texas. The Level 3 events in three or more 2015 sorrel gelding is by RL categories during the show. The 2024 AQHA Superhorse is Sumac Gunnabeflashy, Best Of Sudden and out of Troubles The 2024 AQHA Superhorse is Suowned by AQHA Professional Horsewoman Leslie A Blazin by Blazing Hot and was mac Gunnabeflashy, owned by AQHA bred by Stanley and Susan Scott Lange of Greeley, Colorado. Professional Horsewoman Leslie Lange LLC of Ocala, Florida. Hez Blazin Photo credit: Shane Rux Photography. of Greeley, Colorado. Trouble earned 20 points and was The 2017 chestnut gelding, by Gunshown by Wilson and AQHA Professional Horseman Charlie Cole. natrashya and out of Chics Graceful Whiz by Whiz N Tag Chex, Hez Blazin Trouble was the bronze world champion in senior westwas bred by Donald Sobey from Trenton, Nova Scotia. Sumac ern riding, fifth in performance halter geldings, finalists in senior Gunnabeflashy earned 43 points in the Superhorse competition hunter under saddle and showed in senior trail. and was shown by Lange and AQHA Professional Horseman Bud The third- through fifth-place AQHA Superhorses each receive Lyon. Sumac Gunnabeflashy earned the world champion title in se- $2,500. nior ranch trail and open working western rail, placed sixth in senior reining and were finalists in aged geldings and ranch riding. About the Nutrena AQHA World The 2024 Superhorse received a neck ribbon, rose bouquet, The Nutrena AQHA World, Adequan® Select World and Adequan® $2,000 equibrand gift certificate, Blue Ribbon Tack custom work Level 2 Championships are the premier events in the equine insaddle, $15,000 and a Lisa Perry Bronze. dustry for amateur, Select amateur and open exhibitors. The show The 2024 Reserve AQHA Superhorse is VS The Fireman, includes Level 3 and Adequan® Level 2 classes, as well as AQHA owned by Ingrid Miller Quarter Horses LLC of Plano, Texas, and Level 1 Champion of Champions classes. The shows feature over bred by Kristen N Galyean of Claremore, Oklahoma. The 2019 red three weeks of exciting competition, educational opportunities and roan stallion, by Machine Made and out of VS Lady In Red by VS a bountiful trade show. For more information, visit www.aqha.com/ Code Red, earned 34 points and was shown by AQHA Professional worldshow. Horseman Anthony Montes. VS The Fireman was the bronze world champions in junior western riding and junior western pleasure, About the Sponsors placed fourth in junior trail and was fifth in performance halter stalNutrena feed isn’t just grown, it’s crafted. Real science goes into lions. putting the nutrients animals need into each Nutrena feed product. The Reserve AQHA Superhorse receives a prize package that Quality is so important because we know people are relying on us includes $10,000 and a neck ribbon. to stand up to our exacting standards each and every time. What’s Placing third is Cowpuncher Cadillac, owned by Jimmy Dario inside the bag counts. That’s why you can count on Nutrena feeds and David Reiner of Loveland, Colorado. The 2017 bay roan stalfor the animals you care for. For more information on Nutrena brand lion, by Royal Blue Quixote and out of Miss Dakota Eyed by Two products, visit www.nutrenaworld.com. Eyed Red Buck, was bred by Ranching Heritage Breeders the Pitzer Ranch/Dack Cattle LLC from Ericson, Nebraska. Cowpuncher Cadillac earned 25 points and was shown by AQHA Professional 20

BRIDLE & BIT DECEMBER 2024

The Competitive Cowgirl

Art of the Cowgirl will offer four competition events including: the Kimes Ranch World’s Greatest Cowgirl presented by Western Horseman, the Wrangler All-Women’s Ranch Rodeo presented by COWGIRL Magazine, the Merck Animal Health Breakaway Roping and the new All-Girl Team Roping presented by Merck Animal Health. Entries are limited on all events so don’t wait!

The Events

Kimes Ranch World’s Greatest Cowgirl presented by Western Horseman Added Money: $25,000 Entries: *Limited to 40 Entries WCG Events: Herd Work, Reining, Steer Stopping & Fence Work Entry Fee: $1,000 + Office/ Cattle & Photographer Fees ($1,415)

Wrangler All-Women’s Ranch Rodeo presented by COWGIRL Magazine

Entry Fee: $1,000 per Team Limited to 35 Teams Details: Teams of 4, Max of 2 teams per Contestant Prelim Events: Ranch Horse, Branding, Team Roping, Sort & Doctor Finals Events: Team Roping, Sort & Doctor, 4-Head Ranch Steer Stopping

Merck Animal Health Breakaway Roping

Details: Two Full Rounds and a Short Round Entry Fee: $400, Enter 1 Time *Limited to 60 Ropers Added Money: $5,000 General Information: Top 10 on 2-head back to the Short Round. Short Round will be held with the Ranch Rodeo Finals, Friday night. 80% Payback.

NEW! All-Girl Team Roping

presented by Merck Animal Health Details: This will be a #9.5 Roping Entry Fee: $600 per Team, Enter 2 Times *Limited to 100 Teams General Information: 4-Steer Roping, Progressive After 1, Top 20 to the Short Round. Ropers must have a current 2025 Global Handicap to Enter and Rope. There will be no cap on this event. 80% Payback. • Online Entry for all Competitions - Opens Friday, Nov. 8 • Online Registration for all Workshops & Clincs - Open Until Full • Vendor Applications - Will Close When Full

Merck Animal Health Returns as Major Sponsor for 2025

Merck Animal Health—a research-driven company that develops, manufactures, and markets a broad range of innovative veterinary medicines, vaccines and technology solutions—will be the official sponsor for day one of the 2025 Art of the Cowgirl event held February 25 – March 1, at Rancho Rio in Wickenburg, Arizona. The first 3,000 guests through the gates will take home a reusable shopping bag from Merck Animal Health. Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to visit the company on-site all week for educational opportunities and to take part in their workshops and demonstrations. In the arena, Merk Animal Health will provide an added monetary donation to the Art of the Cowgirl Breakaway competition along with sponsoring the trophy saddle for the 2025 Champion Breakaway Roper. By consistently delivering the highest standards of quality, professionalism and integrity, the goal of Merck Animal Health is to become the partner of choice for veterinarians, producers, and animal owners. The brand continues to support the western way of life by providing products that keep our animals healthy and performing at their best. Art of the Cowgirl would like to thank Merck Animal Health for their continued support of our mission.

About Merck Animal Health

At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leadingedge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than a century, we’ve been at the forefront of research, bringing forward medicines, vaccines and innovative health solutions for the world’s most challenging diseases. Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA, is the global animal health business of Merck. Through its commitment to The Science of Healthier Animals®, Merck Animal Health offers veterinarians, farmers, producers, pet owners and governments one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines and health management solutions and services as well as an extensive suite of connected technology that includes identification, traceability, and monitoring products. Merck Animal Health is dedicated to preserving and improving the health, well-being and performance of animals and the people who care for them. It invests extensively in dynamic and comprehensive R&D resources and a modern, global supply chain. Merck Animal Health is present in more than 50 countries, while its products are available in some 150 markets.

BRIDLE & BIT DECEMBER 2024

ROCKER STEINER INTERVIEW BY TRACY WAGER

Q - Family Legacy: Growing up in a family with such a rich rodeo history, how has that influenced your approach to the sport?

A - It has really given me a lot of

confidence. Having a family behind me like I did can never really hurt, it only helps. I really do not have pressure on me by no means. I just think a picture with 3 World Champions in one family is something I don’t think has been done before. It only motivates me.

Q - Early Inspiration: Can you

share a specific memory from your childhood that ignited your passion for bareback riding?

A - Bareback riding was never my

idea. I really did not know much about bareback riding, and Rodeo. I always knew that my dad and Grandfather were World Champions, but it never excited me. Rodeo was not my thing. I knew I was not going to be big enough to Bull Dog, that my grandmother was never going to let me ride bulls, so I never really wanted to Rodeo. Didn’t think I could. I was just a wakeboarder. My heroes were the top wakeboarders that competed, those were my guys, that’s what I wanted to be like. Everything changed when I was turning 13 years old. I really had stopped getting better, and I thought I had everything figured out. I was just a dumb kid that didn’t know as much as I thought I did. I decided that I wanted to do something else, and my grandad came up with the idea for me to ride bareback horses and to be honest with you, I really didn’t know what it was. Then I realized it was something cool and that nobody else did. Then I met guys like Ty Murray & Larry Mahan. So, then I had some of the greatest of all time wanting to teach me to ride bareback horses. That is an opportunity that you can’t turn down! I mean, if you have the opportunity to have Mike Tyson 24

teach you how to box, why wouldn’t you box? So, I took that opportunity to be taught by some of the greatest cowboys to ever do it! That’s why I did it. Ty Murray has always been my hero since I was a little kid. I didn’t want to Rodeo, I did not think much about Rodeo, but Ty Murray was always the king of the cowboys for me. So, I went forward with what was in front of me, and now my motivation is that I cannot let Ty Murray’s prodigy be a flop. My family background does not give me pressure, but I cannot let the greatest cowboys of all time, down. It happened fast. I went from being on the boat all the time focused on wakeboarding. Then honestly, as soon as the idea crossed my mind, I really turned into a bareback rider overnight. My grandad set me up with the bucking chutes, a bucking machine, and practice horses. He would ask me, “What if you don’t like it?” But I fell in love with it before I even got on a bareback horse. That is what I was going to do from the minute it crossed my mind. Q - Training Regimen: With the experience of previous generations, how have their insights shaped your training and preparation for competitions?

A - I have been training my whole life no matter what I was doing - basketball, boxing, football, swimming, baseball, wakeboarding.

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I never lived a life of a non-athletic kid. My dad put me in the gym starting when I was 8 or 9 years old. Maybe not in the gym, but he had me doing workouts probably before that. I have always been training. This isn’t anything new, but everybody trains now a days, so if you want to be the best, you are going to have to train harder. They are. Ty Murray always says, “You have to train till where you don’t have to think about what you are doing.” Rodeo is so much muscle memory. When you get to the Rodeo, you don’t want to think about it. You want to get there and let muscle memory take over. I train till I don’t have to think. My dad always wonders if it’s on my mind, because I am always a bit jovial, laughing and cracking jokes behind the chutes. Talking to people sometimes even in the bucking chute. My training has put me in the position that I don’t have to think about it anymore. I feel that if I did have to think about it, I would not be as good.

drawn Virgil. This was a horse I had been talking about for a long time. You know, whether I could ride him or not, texting with my friends. So, they were saying things like, “Pretty red Virgil.” I get on and make my ride. I knew it was a great ride, I knew I was going to win the Rodeo, and I was sure that it would be a lot of points. Then they called out “95” and probably 20 minutes later Clayton sent me a screenshot of what we had said to each other. It was maybe the craziest thing that has ever happened to me! That’s a once in a lifetime deal, and I don’t know if I will ever break my record. Records are set to be broken, but it’s very possible that someone will break my record. Honestly, I hope it happens. Hopefully if they break my record, I can break it again. People ask me all the time, If I want to break my own record, but honestly, I don’t feel the need to break my own record.

Q - Facing Top Competitors: Competing against seasoned rodeo stars, how do you handle the pressure and maintain your focus during highstakes events.

A - I don’t think about it

too much. I love being in front of the camera, and only one guy gets an interview after the rodeo. I like to speak to people thru a TV and I like to scream in a microphone in the middle of the arena, and only one guy gets to do that! Honestly all I think about is what I am going to say in my interview!

Q - Record-Breaking

Ride: Achieving a 95-point ride at such a young age is remarkable. What was your mindset leading up to that performance?

A - A lot of crazy things

went on for that ride actually. Some people may not think they are not real, and I am making it up, but I am not. I have a buddy, and about a month before we were setting up what horses that were going to be there, and I found out Virgil would be there. I texted my buddy Clayton and asked, “What if I set a World Record on Virgil (Virgil F13 is a rodeo bucking horse who is considered one of the greatest of all time) my first year. I think everybody could be pretty pissed off?” Then, a couple of weeks later my dad was joking, but he said, “I had a dream you won Darby on Virgil!” So, I get to the Rodeo and barely squeak into the short round, and about 10 minutes before they started to load the horses in the chutes, they called out, “Rocker Steiner/Virgil” I texted my friend Clayton that I was pretty darn nervous to have

Q - Future Aspirations:

Looking ahead, what goals have you set for your rodeo career, and how do you plan to continue the Steiner family’s legacy in the sport? I have done a lot of things in a short amount of time. There are many rodeos that I can win and haven’t. I feel like I have won a lot of big rodeos and done a lot of great things, but I just really want to win the World. I don’t know how many times I want to win the World. People always ask me if I will retire after my first World title, honestly, I have no idea. If I win the World this year and get a hold of my gold buckle and that’s all I want, then that will be it. If I think to myself that I want 5 or 6 more, then we will go get 5 or 6 CONTINUED PAGE 26

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ROCKER STEINER INTERVIEW

more. It’s all on how I feel. My goals are to win the World this year, and that’s all I really have left on my bucket list right now.

“Rocker Red”

Q - Rocker, I think everyone has a little piece of Rip inside of them

Q - Taylor Sheridan: What is it like working with him?

and can relate to the character? I agree, yes, they do! And I bet your mom and grandma have a little bit of Rip inside of her personality as well? Yes, too much!

A - I don’t care what anyone says about Taylor Sheridan, he is

A - Taylor has done so much for the Rodeo and Western world and

our friend, and he will always be our friend. Friends take care of friends. He has been a great person to me and my family ever since we first met. He had no reason to, he didn’t know who we were. Frankly, I was 15 at the time, and I really had not paid attention to Yellowstone. But when I met Taylor Sheridan, I sure as heck started paying attention to Yellowstone, because he is our friend and friends support friends. I honestly believe, that in all of Rodeo, he has helped our industry more than anyone can imagine. Not just on things like the Bareback Buck Out held at The Run For A Million this year, I’m talking about the entire Western World! Yellowstone is like the modern day “Urban Cowboy”. When that movie came out, wearing a cowboy hat was cool again. People had kind of got away from that. Now when you travel and go to big cities and folks are wearing cowboy hats and you ask them, “Do you watch Yellowstone?” and they say, “yes!” He has made the cowboy world cool again! Not just with Yellowstone but with “1883” and all his, too many to list, great TV shows and movies. He has made “RIP” a living legend. When you go to the NFR, you see so many guys dressed up like Rip it’s incredible that so many people want to be him. 26

lifestyle. I am proud to call Taylor Sheridan a friend, and he is a part of something, then I am too! I was proud to be part of The Run for A Million 2024: $150,000 Bareback Buck Out Invitational and hopefully we do it again.

Q - The Run for A Million 2024: $150,000 Bareback Buck Out In-

vitational. What was it like to go and do something new-something that is a horse show with a Rodeo component, while working with the team that produces that event as well as the South Point Hotel & Casino management?

A - As you know, I am a very different person, especially in the

Rodeo world. I love doing different stuff. If it’s different, I love it! So, when I found out about the Buck Out, I was all in. Not because Taylor is my friend, he puts on a great show in everything he does. I like big crowds and big stages, and South Point & Taylor, that’s what they are about. It was great to be a part of something new at South Point with Taylor. Everything they do is golden.

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Q - We call it here, the Sheridan-effect, have you noticed that? A - Yes, I have. Everything he touches turns to Gold. Q - Boot Barn is a large sponsor of yours, is that why you wear all red? A - I signed with them in April 2022. Right after Houston, I got a call from a wakeboarding friend named Johnny. He said I have an agent and have been telling her about you for a long time. She called me and said she has a deal with Boot Barn she wants to talk to me about. I really did not think much of it, and when we got together on the phone, we have worked together ever since and so has Boot Barn. Boot Barn is about different stuff and so am I, we are a great fit. I love working with Boot Barn, they are a great company. They have stuck by me no matter what I may screw up. That is what my definition of a friend is, so Boot Barn is not just a sponsor, the people at Boot Barn are also my friends. I love them and wouldn’t trade them for the world. If you think about some of the greatest athletes of all time, many have worn red. Like for example, Tiger Woods, on game day, he always wore red. I always do things so that people remember me, even if they don’t remember my name. When I was a kid and was a wakeboarder, I always had dreds. Because my theory was that is someone didn’t know my name, someone would say, “Did you see that kid with dreds?” All the time if I am out and about and people see me, they ask all the time, “Are you the kid in red?” many people at Rodeo don’t know anyone there, or they know nothing about Rodeo. They don’t know who I am, they don’t know who anyone is, but they do remember what I was wearing. I have heard the term many times, “Rocker Red”. That’s me. BRIDLE & BIT DECEMBER 2024

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Cassio Dias overcomes broken back to win World Championship and Rookie of the Year

Sage Kimzey goes full-time on the UTB and wins the PBR World Finals

After winning seven UTB events and remaining atop the world standings for most of the season, Cassio Dias’s world title hopes were thrown into jeopardy at the World Finals – No. 2 John Crimber was riding lights-out, and Dias suffered a brutal wreck and was carried away with spinal fractures, broken ribs, a partially collapsed lung and a concussion. But he grit his way through two final days of competition at AT&T Stadium and did enough to secure a very, very well-deserved world title.

In the past, seven-time PRCA bull riding world champion Sage Kimzey has dabbled in the PBR, competing at the World Finals as a Velocity Tour invite in 2017 and the Monster Energy Team Challenge in 2020. In 2024, he finally went full-time on the Unleash The Beast, becoming the most decorated rookie the league has ever seen. He missed the bulk of the season due to injury, but he made his season count thanks to a PBR World Finals event win to close things out.

“I’m very thankful to have had the opportunity to achieve my dream and to have my name written in the history of the PBR,” Dias told PBR.com. “I feel very full because I know my dreams came true. I’m very happy and thankful for everything I achieved.”

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

Cool Whip breaks Bushwacker’s streak

The night of 90s in Tulsa

The bull power is always great in Oklahoma, but in Tulsa back in January, it was absolutely off the charts. The bull riders used it to their advantage, erupting for seven 90-point rides in the championship round. It was an absolutely incredible performance that has it standing alone as the greatest short round in PBR history.

Speaking of rank bull power, no bovine has been better than Cool Whip for the last two and a half years. The last time he was ridden was in April of 2022. At the 2024 PBR World Finals, Cool Whip rewrote the history books by tying and then surpassing three-time World Champion Bushwacker’s legendary buckoff streak with his 43rd consecutive buckoff.

“That’s how you finish out probably the championship round of the decade right here. I’m just going to say it,” two-time World Champion Justin McBride said after Joao Ricardo Vieira rode Flyin Wired for 91.75 points. “Look, all the guys rode so good. Joao, though, was the best all weekend long. And just another – not a good ride, a great ride in the championship round.”

“He has that record forever,” owner Staci Addison said. “Not that it can’t be broken, and I can’t wait until the day it is broken, because that’s why we keep track of stuff. But until then, he’s the most buckin’-off bull ever. It’s unreal. I’m still having a hard time wrapping my head around it.”

2024 Rookie Class

2024 was truly the season of the rookie. Cassio Dias and John Crimber led the world title race, but we also had breakout stars like Kaiden Loud, Caden Bunch, Clay Guiton, Marco Rizzo, Cort McFadden, Leonardo Castro, Julio Cesar Marques, Paulo Eduardo Rossetto… and seven-time PRCA bull riding world champion Sage Kimzey. It was arguably the deepest rookie class in PBR history, and our hats are off to all these incredible riders. 34

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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Kaycee Feild,

who set the gold standard for PRCA bareback riders, winning an event record six PRCA World Championships, headlined the 2024 ProRodeo Hall of Fame class inducted.

PRORODEO HALL OF FAME INDUCTS STAR-STUDDED development, advancement and success of the PRCA and or the Hall of Fame was awarded to Bob Feist. He was a contestant and announcer at the 1979 National Finals Steer Roping and 1980 National Finals Rodeo and founded the immensely popular Bob Feist Invitational Team Roping.

Late bull rider Blue Stone enters HOF Kaycee Feild Feild, who won consecutive PRCA World Championships in 2011-14, and 2020-21, is joined in the class by contestants – team roper Art Arnold, a 1968 RCA World Champion; the late bull rider, Blue Stone, a PRCA World Champion in 2001 and 2002; stock contractor Sammy Andrews; bullfighter Darrell Diefenbach, who worked the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo 12 times (2001-12), notable J.D. Yates, who made the NFR as a team roping header and heeler; standout bull Mr. T of Burns Rodeo Company (1986 PRCA Bull of the Year, and Bull of the NFR in 1986 and 1989); the rodeo committee from the Tri-State Rodeo in Fort, Madison, Iowa; and barrel racers Marlene (Eddleman) McRae, the 1983 WPRA World Champion and Jeana Day, the 1974 WPRA World Champion. The 2024 Ken Stemler Pioneer Award, which recognizes those who have provided groundbreaking, innovative ideas and forward thinking that help the

Blue Stone didn’t have a lengthy PRCA career, but it was quite memorable. Stone qualified for the National Finals Rodeo twice in 2001 and 2002 and proceeded to win

“I just wish he was here for it. His try and will is what really set him apart. He never quit, not until his head hit the ground. He was always going at ‘em.”

back-to-back PRCA World Championships and the NFR Average twice. Stone, who passed away March 13, 2022, at the age of 43, was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame with the 2024 class. “This is one thing that I know he always wanted to have done and it’s a huge honor,” said Chris Willard, Stone’s cousin.

He also qualified for the National Finals Steer Roping in 198889, 1991, 1994, 1996-98, 2000, 2007, 2008 and 2010. Those accomplishments put him into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame as a notable on Saturday. Although Yates’ father Dick obtained his PRCA permit in 1965, J.D. didn’t have any lofty goals when he started his PRCA career in ‘75.

Stone captured his first world championship by earning $174,772 to edge Cody Hancock by less than $10,000. He followed that up in 2002 by earning $157,707 and defeated Myron Duarte by less than $9,000. In his two NFR appearances, Stone rode 14 of his bulls and earned a combined $205,851 – $112,322 in 2001 and $93,529 in 2002.

“When I started rodeoing, I didn’t wake up that morning and say, ‘I wanted to have a Hall of Fame of career,’” said Yates, who lives in Pueblo, 45 minutes south of the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. “I was blessed to do what I got to do. Anybody who says it isn’t a dream come true to get into that (ProRodeo Hall of Fame) is J.D. Yates not telling the truth. For me to be put in with the people who are in there is a pretty amazing honor.”

J.D. Yates joins ProRodeo Hall

Blue Stone

heeler and in 1996 and 2002 he qualified as a header.

J.D. Yates holds a PRCA record that will likely never be broken. He became the youngest cowboy to qualify for the National Finals Rodeo at 15 years, four months in 1975. J.D., a header, partnered with his father, Dick, at the ‘75 NFR. The duo placed in five rounds, highlighted by winning Round 4 outright (6.6 seconds), Round 9 outright (6.2 seconds) and splitting the Round 10 win in 6.6 seconds. That was sign of things to come for J.D. as he competed at the NFR in team roping in 19751993, 1996 and 2002. From 1975-93, he qualified as a

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Art Arnold finds his place in Hall Art Arnold took the team roping world by storm in the late 1950s and 60s. The Buckeye, Ariz., native joined the Rodeo Cowboys Association, precursor to the PRCA, in August of 1958. It didn’t take long for Arnold to reach the pinnacle of the sport. In 1959, he punched his ticket to the inaugural National Finals Rodeo in Dallas. Arnold went on to compete on rodeo’s biggest stage nine more times (1959-63, 1965-68 and 1970) during his legendary career – all as a header except for 1962. He was crowned the 1968 RCA World Champion Team Roper

after earning $12,823. That year at the finals Arnold teamed up with fellow Arizona world champion Dale Smith. At that time, only one team roper was awarded the world championship.

Stock contractor Sammy Andrews finally gets Hall Call Sammy Andrews is a thirdgeneration stock contractor, who formed Andrews Rodeo Company in 1980. He bought his PRCA card in 1987 and has made a name for himself in the past three-plus decades in the ProRodeo ranks.

Diefenbach forever enshrined at ProRodeo Hall of Fame Darrell Diefenbach came to the United States with a dream to be the best bullfighter in rodeo. It didn’t take long for what seemed like a far-fetched dream at one time to become a reality. Diefenbach’s journey to the PRCA began at the age of 24, just three years later he made his first of 12 trips to the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. His longevity and success as a bullfighter parlayed into a ProRodeo Hall of Fame career.

Jeana Day can now call HOF home

Burns Rodeo Company bull Mr. T was one of the best

Jeana Day, the 1974 WPRA Barrel Racing World Champion, was filled with emotion when she received word of her selection from WPRA president Jimmie Munroe.

IIn 1985 alone, Mr. T bucked off Lane Frost in Casper, Wyo., at the Winston Tour event and he followed that up by tossing Charles Sampson in Laramie. “Having Mr. T brought us from just being a small Wyoming outfit to being a small Wyoming outfit with a famous bull,” Hal Burns said. “He was just extremely athletic. He went to the NFR six years in a row, and it takes a special type of bull to have that sort of longevity in the sport of rodeo.”

Burns retired Mr. T, who was 14, after the 1990 NFR, Diefenbach’s ART ARNOLD where the bull was journey to the one-for-one eliminating PRCA began at 1985 world champ Ted Nuce. the age of 24, just three years Mr. T was sent to the Growney later he made his first of 12 Ranch in Red Bluff, Calif., trips to the National Finals Rowhere he shared a pasture with deo in Las Vegas. His longevity fellow ProRodeo Hall of Fame and success as a bullfighter bull Red Rock. parlayed into a ProRodeo Hall of Fame career. According to PRCA archives, Mr. T was ridden just three times in his career.

Marlene Eddleman McRae

Marlene Eddleman McRae joins HOF Marlene (Eddleman) McRae significantly impacted the WPRA in and outside of the arena, and because of her accomplishments she was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. The Ordway, Colo., barrel racer qualified for the National Finals Rodeo 10 times (1983-91, 2000), won the world in 1983 and the NFR Average twice (1983, 1988).

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Day also served 11 years on the WPRA Board of Directors during a pivotal time in the association’s history, as it took a stand for equal money in barrel racing. She served two different terms (1975-1979 and 19861991).

Tri-State Rodeo receives the HOF nod Fort Madison, Iowa, lies on the banks of the Mississippi River with a population of just over 10,000. The rodeo, which is held over Labor Day weekend, is entering its 76th year in existence this September.

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PRCA Media Rights Acquired by Teton Ridge

November 20, 2024 – Fort Worth, Texas — Teton Ridge, the premier brand at the intersection of Western sports and entertainment, announced today its acquisition of The Cowboy Channel, the leading network for Western sports, along with the Cowgirl Channel and The Cowboy Channel+, a live streaming and on-demand service.

Additionally, The Cowboy Channel has distribution agreements with major cable providers such as DISH, DIRECTV, Comcast, Cox, Charter, and Altice, among others. The Cowgirl Channel is currently exclusive to DISH. Raquel Gottsch Koehler, Co-Owner of Rural Media Group and daughter of the late founder and media visionary Patrick Gottsch, believes Teton Ridge is a perfect new owner for her father’s company. “Our father built The Cowboy Channel to celebrate and elevate Western sports, and Teton Ridge’s commitment to preserving the authenticity of the Western lifestyle aligns with that vision. We pass the torch to a team that shares our deep passion for rodeo and Western sports,” Gottsch Koehler said. Teton Ridge was founded in 2019 with strategic funding from investors, including acclaimed investor and entrepreneur Thomas Tull, founder of TWG and founder and CEO of Guggenheim Partners Mark Walter, Jim Breyer, and the Lee Bass Family Office, all of whom shared a vision to expand the reach and impact of Western sports. The Cowboy Channel, founded in 2017 by Gottsch, pioneered 24-hour rodeo and Western sports broadcasting, connecting tens of millions of viewers to live events, documentaries, and year-round coverage. The Cowgirl Channel launched in 2023 to further expand programming by providing a platform to highlight women in Western sports. Following Gottsch’s passing in May, his daughters, Raquel Gottsch Koehler and Gatsby Gottsch Solheim, have led Rural Media Group.

Resistol Rookie

Competing at 67 rodeos on two horses, Wiliams earned $27,503. She finished $2,410 ahead of Harley Meged of Miles City, Montana. Williams finished 49th in the WPRA world standings. Williams competed in the Great Lakes Circuit in 2024, getting her mail in Bethany, Missouri. “I was staying with friends,” she said. The three-time National High School Finals Rodeo qualifier filled her permit in October of 2023 and bought her card after a win in Farmington, Missouri during the last weekend of May. “I’m big on goalsetting and wanted to make the finals for the Great Lakes Circuit,” Williams said. “I kind of had a late start.” The homeschooled 19-year-old leads the Great Lakes Circuit standings entering its Finals, Nov. 14-16 in Louisville, Kentucky. A year-end or Finals title will give her an opportunity to compete at the high-paying NFR Open in July of 2025. Williams headed west during the Fourth of July with another goal on her list. “I decided to go for rookie of the year,” she said. Williams pocketed $12,153 during July. She won at Burwell, Nebraska, Iron River, Michigan and Phillips, Wisconsin. She was also second in Manhattan, Kansas. Her biggest check was a third-place finish at Ogden, Utah for $5,388. “The highlight of the year was Ogden,” said Williams. Williams rode Keeper and Kali during the summer. Keeper is a 13-year-old bay gelding registered as Pitchforks Rey II. The horse is a son of Dual Smart Rey and out of Pitchforks Lena. “He tries for me so hard every time,” said Williams. “He never takes a throw away from me. I have a lot of confidence in hm.” Kali is a smooth-running six-year-old sorrel Quarter horse mare with roan flanks. She is registered as Flashy N Cashy out of Money Talks Smart and sired by Purdy Boy Flash. “She’s really smooth,” said Williams. “Kali scores well and finishes. She reads a calf better than any horse I’ve ever ridden.”

Acquired from Rural Media Group, a global leader in agriculture and rural lifestyle media and entertainment, this strategic move establishes Teton Ridge as the largest rights holder in the Western sports sector and reinforces its dedication to elevating the reach and impact of Western sports across the world. “The partnership with RMG and The Cowboy Channel brought rodeo to living rooms across the world in a manner never seen,” PRCA CEO Tom Glause said. “Rodeo is a showcase of Western lifestyle, and we are excited to work with Teton Ridge on the continued evolution of promoting our athletes and communities to millions of fans.” “This is a defining moment that solidifies Teton Ridge as an authority in Western sports and storytelling,” said Deirdre Lester, CEO of Teton Ridge. “We are committed to honoring the deep traditions of this sport while driving its growth and shaping the future of Western sports for generations to come.” As part of the acquisition, Teton Ridge retains an exclusive licensing agreement with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), covering more than 600 sanctioned rodeos domestically and internationally including the National Finals Rodeo (NFR).

Williams Ropes Rookie of the Year Title

By Joe Kusek With spring semester of college coming to an end, Summer Williams had a couple of options for the upcoming months. She could return home to southern Mississippi and work for her father or Williams could stay on the road and rope. Williams gripped the steering wheel tighter, pressed harder on the gas pedal and maneuvered her truck into the fast lane. The well-traveled teenager capped off a whirlwind 2024 season, earning WPRA Breakaway Roping Resistol Rookie of the Year honors. In the span of just 11 months, Summer went from competing on her permit to earning her professional rodeo card to walking away with a once-in-a-lifetime award. “It means a lot to me,” said Williams, who is from Perkinston, Mississippi an unincorporated community 35 miles north of Biloxi. She is currently a sophomore at Cisco College in Texas, majoring in equine business. “It definitely was fast. Looking back, I’m just really happy how the season went. Honestly, I never looked at the rookie standings, just to the next calf. God had a plan, and it worked out.” 62

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DR. GREGG KNAPE NAMED PRORODEO VETERINARIAN OF THE YEAR COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Dr. Gregg Knape has been named the recipient of the 2024 PRCA Veterinarian of the Year Award. The Alvin, Texas, native has over four decades of experience as a large

animal veterinarian and serves as an official vet at RodeoHouston. “In my life, this would be one of the most humbling honors that I’ve ever received,” Knape told

the ProRodeo Sports News. “This is all based on something that we do every day. I’m a large animal veterinarian, and this is part of my life.” Knape was raised on a farm and graduated from Texas A&M

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University in 1976 with a degree in veterinary medicine, specializing in farm animals. He said the award meant more to him because of his appreciation for PRORODEO and its promotion of the Western lifestyle. “To me rodeo, especially PRORODEO, is the avenue that we can show the rest of the world what type of life we live,” Knape said. “I just love it. My life is these large animals. The horses, the sport, the animals, the cattle, the whole thing. That’s just why it means so much to me.” Knape is an employee of RodeoHouston each year and has helped coordinate with hundreds of volunteers to ensure the safety and well-being of livestock since 2003. “There are several hundred volunteers whose sole purpose is to help take care of the horses, the cowboys, the rodeo contestants and the whole group to make this thing a success from year to year,” Knape said. “And to give everyone, the competitors and those animal athletes, the opportunity to perform without any hang-ups.” Knape opened his own practice in 1983 as a veterinarian at Gulf Coast Large Animal Clinic in Alvin, Texas. The practice sits on the dairy farm where Knape was raised and still calls home. “This award took me totally by surprise,” Knape said. “I don’t feel like I deserve it because it’s something we do and I’ve done forever. I was blown away when I got the word that I’d won because I’ve never even had that on my radar as something I’d potentially be deserving of.”

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We are excited to announce the third annual Quick Draw event will be held February 25th and 26th during Art of the Cowgirl 2025 at Rancho Rio in Wickenburg, Arizona. We look forward to this component to our event to showcase 6 artists. All attendees at the event will be able to interact and see the artists in action as they complete their work throughout the day. The artist’s pieces will be completed by 5pm on February 26th and then will be available

2025 Artist Quick Draw Competition

for purchase through a silent auction open to all attendees at the event and online that will close March 1st at 11am. Awards ceremony for artists will be held at 7pm during the evening programming on February 26th.

Artists must apply to participate in the Quick Draw Event. Applications open today, November 15th and close Decem-

ber 15th, 2024. Artists will be notified of acceptance no later than De-

cember 31st. Selected artists will participate in the two day quick draw during Art of the Cowgirl and receive 60% of the proceeds from their piece sold through the silent auction. The remaining funds from the pieces will go to the Art of the Cowgirl Foundation and Fellowship Program. The winner will also receive a belt buckle and $1,000 cash award. • Online Entry for all Competitions • Online Registration f or all Workshops & Clinics Open Until Full • Tickets on Sale Now!

BULLFIGHTERS,

BARRELMAN, PICKUP MEN ANNOUNCED FOR 2024 WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS RODEO PRESENTED BY TETON RIDGE COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The PRCA is proud to announce the bullfighters, barrelman and pickup men for the 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge in Las Vegas, Dec. 5-14.

Below, are this year’s selections: BULLFIGHTERS Dusty Tuckness Cody Webster Nathan Jestes BARRELMAN John Harrison PICKUP MEN Tyler Kraft Shawn Calhoun Alternate – Matt Twitchell 78

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$100,000 to be added to 2025 AQHA VRH World Championships

Qualifying is underway for the 2025 AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships as AQHA announces details for 2026 qualifying. Due to the success of the 2024 AQHA Versatility Ranch

Horse World Championships, for the first time ever, the American Quarter Horse Association will be adding a minimum of $100,000 to the overall payout at the 2025 AQHA VRH World, scheduled for June 15-21 in Amarillo, Texas. Additionally, qualifying information has been approved for the 2026 VRH World. The AQHA VRH World combines three premiere ranch

horse events into one: the AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships, AQHA Ranching Heritage Challenge Finals and the AQHA Cattle Level 1 Championships, presented by Four Sixes Ranch. Following the inaugural event in 2008, the ranching events have seen tremendous growth which has been further supported by VRH

World’s move to the Tri-State Fairgrounds and the additional funding from Amarillo and Texas Venue Support Fund, Special Event Trust Fund as well as Amarillo Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Purse and Prizes

AQHA will award a minimum of $475,000 in cash and prizes at the 2025 AQHA VRH World, surpassing the record total cash and prizes of nearly $400,000 awarded in 2024. “We are excited to offer a record-breaking payout and prize line to our ranching competitors,” said Karl Stressman, AQHA chief executive officer. “We are thankful to our exhibitors who continue to support this great show and to the committees and team members who work hard to make payouts like this possible” Both the AQHA VRH World Championships and RHC Finals will feature added money along with optional jackpot opportunities for AQHA Level 1 Cattle Championships competitors. Custom designed trophies, buckles, jackets and more are awarded in each class as well as for the VRH all-around world champions.

2026 Qualifying

New for the 2026 AQHA VRH World, the qualifying period will begin January 1, 2025, and will end December 31, 2025. This period will mirror the Ranching Heritage Challenge Finals, whose qualifying period for 2026 will remain January 1 December 31, 2025. The qualifying period for the 2025 AQHA VRH World will continue to run through February 28, 2025, meaning that in January and February 2025, exhibitors will have the opportunity to qualify for both the 2025 and 2026 VRH World Shows at the same time. For more information, view the VRH World qualifying requirements. BRIDLE & BIT DECEMBER 2024

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AQHA Select All-Around Crowned

AQHA crowns the 2024 AQHA Select All-Around Amateur and Gene Graves Super-Select Special Recognition Award recipient at the Adequan® Select World. During the past few weeks, AQHA Select all-around amateur contenders competed in a variety of events aboard their American Quarter Horses throughout the AQHA Select World Championship Show, presented by Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan). The 2024 Select All-Around Amateur is Susan Wilson of Gainesville, Texas, showing Hez Blazin Trouble. The 2015 sorrel gelding, by RL Best of Sudden and out of Troubles A Blazin by Blazing Hot, was bred by Stanley and Susan Scott LLC and earned 31 points in the Select all-around competition. They were world champions in western riding and performance halter geldings, placed seventh in horsemanship and were finalists in trail. Wilson and Hez Blazin Trouble, who was the 2022 AQHA Superhorse, received a prize package that included a neck wreath, $10,000 and a Lisa Perry Bronze. The reserve Select all-around amateur is Shelley Otness of Williamsville, Illinois, who showed Cool Coastin Machine. The 2014 bay gelding is by Machine Made and out of Cool Coastin Lady by Certain Potential. Otness and Cool Coastin Machine earned 29 points in Select amateur competition and were the reserve world champions in hunt seat equitation, bronze world champions in showmanship, placed sixth in performance halter geldings, finalists in western riding and showed in horsemanship. Otness and Cool Coastin Machine received $5,000 and a silver bowl. The third-place Select all-around amateur is Roxanne Doogan

of Castle Rock, Colorado, showing Snapchat Diva. The 2015 bay mare by VS Flatline and out of Radically Fired Up was bred by Knapp Quarter Horse Farms LC of Van Meter, Iowa. Doogan and Snapchat Diva earned 27 points in Select amateur competition securing the world champion title in performance halter mares, placing fourth in trail and horsemanship, and were finalists in showmanship and western riding. The fourth-place Select all-around amateur is Laina Banks of Schulenburg, Texas, showing Eye On The Ball. The 2005 bay gelding by Zippos Two Eyed Jack and out of Telightfully Good was bred by Darrell Saul and Family of Des Arc, Arkansas. The team earned 21 points in Select amateur competition securing the reserve world champion title in trail, placing seventh in showmanship, 10th in western riding and were finalists in performance halter geldings. The fifth-place Select all-around amateur is April Gentry showing Hez Simply Western. The 2015 chestnut gelding sired by Dress Western and out of Simply Talkin Sexy was bred by Madelaine Derksen of Warren, Manitoba. They earned 19 points in Select amateur competition, winning the reserve world champion title in hunt seat equitation, placing sixth in performance halter geldings and 10th in western riding. The Select all-around amateur third- through fifth-place award winners each received $1,500.

Gene Graves Super-Select Special Recognition

AQHA also awarded the Gene Graves Super-Select Special Recognition Award. The award is presented to the Super-Select exhibitor, age 70 and over, earning the greatest number of points in competition at the 2024 Adequan® Select World. The 2024 Gene Graves Super-Select Recognition Award recipient is Karen Dean showing One More Whizkey. The 2017 palomino mare is by Whizkey N Diamonds and out of One More Nite by Gunners Special Nite. The pair were world champions in Select ranch trail after a three-way run-off. Dean and One More Whizkey received a specially designed plaque.

About the Show

The Nutrena AQHA World, Adequan® Select World and Adequan® Level 2 Championships are the premier events in the equine industry for amateur, Select and open exhibitors. The show includes Level 3 and Adequan® Level 2 classes, as well as AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions classes. The shows feature over three weeks of exciting competition, educational opportunities and a bountiful trade show. For more information, visit www.aqha.com/ worldshow. 86

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Maggie Keith Wins 2024 USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal Final By Leslie Potter/US Equestrian |

Kansas City, Mo. – With expertly executed rail and pattern work, Maggie Keith (Louisville, Ky.) secured the 2024 USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur Medal champion title on Friday at the UPHA American Royal National Championship Horse Show. Keith rode her longtime partner, CH CHEQ Reedann’s Heir to Glory (Supreme Heir x Glori-Phi), a 2004 American Saddlebred gelding owned by Rozes Equine LLC, to the top of the podium. The victory was an emotional one for Keith, who has been riding “Reed” since 2019 under the direction of Cindy Zubrod and Renee Philpott at Zubrod Stables. Before coming to the finals, they had decided that this show would be his last

before getting his well-deserved retirement. “I’ve done four show seasons with him, and we got to do one last season together, and I’m really happy,” said Keith, who also won the UPHA Adult Challenge Cup National Finals earlier this week. “I’m so glad he gets to go out on a high note with two big wins at the American Royal Horse Show. I’m super proud of him.” The judging panel of Tom Bombolis, Mathew Roberts, and Lisa Waller had all entries complete a workout that included a canter serpentine on the short side of the ring, pivots, and a canter circle at the far end, testing the athletes’ ability to communicate with their horses for accuracy and precision. “I feel like our pattern went really well,” said Keith. “We’ve done a ton of patterns together. He’s very experienced, and I’m glad that we got out there and

did our last pattern together very well.” Keith had a successful junior equitation career, and it was her bond with Reed that motivated

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her to stick with the sport after she aged out at the end of the 2022 season. “Honestly, he inspired me to keep going,” she said. “After my senior year, I knew that I didn’t want to be done. I wanted to make sure we ended on a good note, and I’m glad that I had that opportunity because it turned out quite awesome for us!” Katie Rich (Dallas, Texas) earned the reserve champion title riding her own Sir Fabulous (Sir William Robert x Caramac’s Fizzy Lady), a 2009 American Saddlebred gelding. Macy Brangers (Louisville, Ky.) finished in third place with Aunty Bellum, an American Saddlebred mare owned by Jason Brangers. Caitlin Ferkile (St. Petersburg, Fla.) finished in fourth place with Empress Equine Company LLC’s CH Buzz Lightning, a 2010 American Saddlebred gelding.

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The First One:

1974 AQHA World Show

It has been 50 years now since the first AQHA world champions were crowned. Fifty years ago, AQHA staffers and volunteers were preparing for a special event – the first-ever AQHA World Championship Show. By Jim Jennings Fifty years ago, AQHA staffers and volunteers were preparing for a special event – the first-

Photo for the First World Show Journal blog. ever AQHA World Championship Show. Technology at the show was top of the line for the time. World Show results would be tabulated over a telephone line that linked a Radio Shack personal computer to a bank of IBM computers in the Dayton, Ohio, offices of show sponsor Ponderosa Steak Houses. The Radio Shack computer was packed and checked as luggage when AQHA staff flew to Louisville, Kentucky, where the show would be held. However, airport personnel dropped the box containing the computer, rendering it worthless. Ponderosa came to the rescue and furnished a replacement computer. Judges’ results were entered, and results appeared immediately on a large video screen. Incidentally, the following year, AQHA’s computer was packed on a bed of shavings in the front stall of AQHA inspector Jim Wright’s two-horse inline trailer.

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BLM awards $25 million to accelerate wild horse and burro training and adoptions

Five public-private partnerships could potentially save taxpayers up to $160.7 million WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management today announced the launch of five new publicprivate partnership agreements designed to place wild horses and burros into private care. These partnerships could receive up to nearly $25 million in funding over five years and help place approximately 11,000 additional wild horses and burros over and above the BLM’s

existing adoption program.

Together, these agreements could help save taxpayers roughly $160 million by reducing the costs to care for unadopted wild horses and burros. Based on 2023 prices, the average cost is approximately $15,000 to care for a wild horse in BLM facilities over its lifetime if it is not placed into private care, leaving taxpayers on the hook for more than $1 billion for the 67,000 wild horses and burros currently in short- and long-term holding. “The BLM is committed to ensuring the health and longterm sustainability of America’s wild horse and burro herds and the public lands they roam,” said BLM Director Tracy StoneManning. “By working with partners, we can reduce the number of animals in off-range

facilities and ensure a healthy balance on public lands. These efforts are crucial for the wellbeing of the animals while also a savings for taxpayers.” One partner, Forever Branded, a 501c3 non-profit organization based in Paradise, Texas, will receive up to nearly $16.37 million over five years to support nationwide training and adoption programs for wild horses and burros. Its Branded Partnerships program will establish a network of equine trainers to train and gentle wild horses and burros for adoption. Branded Adoption Centers will be located across the country and provide adoption opportunities for local communities. The organization will also host annual events to showcase the trainability of the animals and build a community of trainers willing to share best practices. The BLM also awarded new agreements, renewable up to five years, with four additional organizations that will assist the BLM with education and outreach, training animals and placing wild horses and burros into private care in their local communities, showcasing wild horses in competitive events and programs that connect trainers with potential adopters. Teens and Oregon Mustangs of Yamhill, Oregon could

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receive up to $6 million. Meeker Mustang Makeover potentially could receive up to nearly $700,000 in funding. Sacramento Sheriff’s Office Wild Horse Program may receive up to nearly $700,000 to support their program at the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center. Mustang Yearlings Washington Youth may receive up to slightly over $500,000 to support its program that connects adults and youth with wild horses. Together, these partnerships are anticipated to place thousands of wild horses and burros into private care while providing meaningful education and engagement opportunities. Visit the BLM’s website to learn more about the Wild Horse and Burro Program and how to adopt a wild horse or burro. The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of subsurface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

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PRORODEO 024 POLARIS REMUDA AWARDS

The stock contractor honored with the best pen of bucking horses brought to PRCA rodeos this year was Pickett Pro Rodeo, and the rodeo committee recognized for assembling the best pen of bucking horses was the Black Hills Roundup in Belle Fourche, S.D. The annual Remuda Awards go to the stock contracting firm and rodeo committee that provide the best, most consistent

pen of bucking horses, creating the best opportunities for contestants to score well. It marks the first time Pickett Pro Rodeo and the Black Hills Roundup received Remuda Awards. “A year ago, this was something that we as a committee set a goal for,” Black Hills Roundup executive committee chair Dallas Conner said. “And to receive this award is abso-

lutely amazing.” The Black Hills Roundup held the 105th edition of the event in the Rushmore State this past July. The rodeo, also nominated for Medium Outdoor Rodeo of the Year, assembled a pen from its primary stock contractor, Championship Pro Rodeo, with sub-contractors Fettig Pro Rodeo, Cowtown Rodeo, Harper & Morgan Rodeo Company and

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Burch Rodeo. “I’ve always said we have some of the best people and volunteers working with our rodeo,” Conner said. “We’re like family. We don’t always get along. But at the end of the day, we’re all doing it for the right reason. Hats off to our committee because they are a great group of people.” The Black Hills Roundup will host its 106th edition from July 1-5, 2025, in Belle Fourche. Pickett Pro Rodeo, based in Fairfield, Texas, added another honor to its long list of accomplishments with its first Remuda Award. “It’s very special,” owner Cullen Pickett said. “It’s one of the ultimate achievements to have your stuff recognized as some of the best.” On Oct. 7, the contractor also received word that 11 of its bareback horses and one of its bulls will appear at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Teton Ridge, Dec. 5-14. The following day, Pickett Pro Rodeo’s Night Crawler was named Pendleton Whisky’s Let ‘er Buck Bareback Riding Horse of the Year for the second straight season. “It’s unbelievable to have the best horse in the world in the bareback riding and then to have the best set of horses,” Pickett said. “It’s pretty unbelievable.” The Remuda Award for stock contractors highlights more than one great bucking horse and recognizes the consistency displayed by a pen throughout an entire season. “It’s a long season, and it’s about how your stuff holds up,” Pickett said. “Is it as good at the end as it is at the start and in the middle and everywhere in between? That’s key. “And when you go somewhere, the contestants, committees and other stock contractors know that you’re going to bring the best, no matter what time of year or where the rodeo is.”

2024 APHA Western National Championship Show hits a jackpot in Las Vegas By Jessica Hein The 2024 APHA Western National Championship Show, October 3–6, returned to Las Vegas with a bang. Like its Eastern counterpart, the Western National Championship Show saw significant increases, including growth of 71.9 percent in total horses and nearly doubling the number of entries over 2023 numbers. This year’s event took place at South Point Arena & Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, which will host the Western National Show through 2026. It featured 137 Western National Championship classes and 20 all-around awards, attracting 294 horses and nearly 1,450 entries. International Ranch Horse Association classes paid out nearly $8,000 during the show,

as well. Unofficially, the show welcomed more than 90 firsttime Western National Show attendees.

“The Western National Championship Show was certainly one for the books,” Direc-

tor of Incentive Programs Matt Arias said. “We had a great turnout of exhibitors and horses from all over the Western United States and Canada. Fun activities for exhibitors helped make the show extra fun. We are already looking forward to 2025.” In addition to competing for national championships and prizes, exhibitors and fans also participated in a Markel/APHA Professional Horsemen Clinic, Ride the Pattern, equine bingo, costume challenge, boot scramble and more. Special thanks to Kimes Ranch, who generously sponsored all Novice Youth and Youth Walk-Trot entry fees, and the California Paint Horse Association, who provided complimentary trailer unloading assistance. Future Western National

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Championship Show Dates October 30–November 2, 2025 October 29–November 1, 2026 All-Around Champions: 2024 Western National Championship Show Reprinting all or part of this news release is permitted. Please credit the Paint Horse Journal and provide a link to apha.com.

About APHA The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s secondlargest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.

By: Hannah Claxton

Four years ago, a traumatic accident forced National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Professional Jamie Feuquay to reevaluate life as he knew it. A break in his neck had him on the sidelines for a little over eight months, which gave him plenty of time to think. “Things were kind of

Faces of the Reined Cow Horse:

Jamie Feuquay

sketchy in regards to if I would ever ride again,” Feuquay explained. “I made a decision during that time that if I wanted to get to where I wanted to be, I wasn’t going to do it in my comfort zone. We got some things in order, and with

some encouraging words from friends, we put everything up for sale.”

That triggered his and his family’s move from Danville, Indiana, to Dublin, Texas, which was drastic, but Feuquay knew that big goals often require big actions. Leaving behind their established training program, family and everything they’d ever known was only worth it for one thing—the chance to accomplish more. “Personal growth and the community made it worth it to leave everything,” Feuquay said. “I felt I was stale in Indiana. Coming down here [to Texas] for a month at a time meant there were still 11 months out of the year that I wasn’t having personal growth while working my horses.” As one of just a few cow horse trainers located in Indiana, Feuquay had limited opportunities to not only compete, but to receive coaching, guidance and feedback from other open-caliber riders. With two of NRCHA’s premier events in North Texas, the move to Dublin put Feuquay within a few hours’ drive of dozens of the highest-performing riders in the industry. “Here in Texas, everybody is willing to help you,” Feuquay said. “Even if you’re competing against them, they’re still willing to help you because they want to beat you when you’re at your best.” Location and horsemanship aren’t the only aspects of Feuquay’s life that have leveled up—his mental game has also been totally transformed.

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“Horses are going to have tough days, and when you’ve had a few tough days in a row, you start doubting your program,” Feuquay admitted. “When you have a community around you that can say, ‘hey, you’re doing a good job, keep doing what you’re doing,’ it feels like you’ve got people standing behind you.”

BOSS MARES, INC.PARTNERS WITH FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO TO PRESENT 2025 “LEAD THE HERD WORKSHOP” With the goal to meet cowgirl entrepreneurs and business owners where they are already meeting, Boss Mares, Inc. will host the second“Lead the Herd” Workshop on January 18, 2025, during the Fort Worth Stock Show& Rodeo at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame in Fort Worth,Texas. The oneday workshop will bring business and marketing expertise to attendees free of charge, all with the mission to give cowgirl entrepreneurs a leg up.

The inaugural Lead the Herd Workshop was held in 2024, assisting more than 100 attendees in learning marketing, legal and business acumen to aid in their own entrepreneurial work. Boss Mares, Inc. provides the workshops to celebrate the women who create Western lifestyle businesses and engage in entrepreneurial opportunities to provide a positive atmosphere for women to learn, connect, mentor, support and create a path to follow their business dreams. “Our Lead the Herd Workshop is an opportunity for business-minded women to be together to learn and improve strategies, financial management, launch start-ups and more,” said Patti Colbert, Boss

Mares, Inc. treasurer and cofounder. “Holding it at the Cowgirl Hall of Fame during the Fort Worth StockShow and Rodeo brings together creatives alongside those with more business focused viewpoints to share and collaborate so all can rise.”

family’s generational ranch to remain solvent and successful in the coming years. She brings a wealth of information about how to manage multiple ventures, how to evolve with the industry and how to continue elevating a brand, like her fam-

Held at the inspiring National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, the workshop will include museum and Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo admission, lunch, and will feature sessions focused on legal aid, business planning, marketing and branding. Boss Mares, Inc. is excited to announce that rancher, and Oklahoma Agriculture Hall of Fame and National Cowgirl Hall of Fame inductee, TerryStuart Forst is providing the keynote address. Head of the Stuart Ranch, which began in 1868 and continues today on more than 45,000 acres in Oklahoma, Stuart Forst is leading the charge to expand and adapt her

ily’s 7S. “We are so excited to have Terry Stuart Forst present our keynote address for our upcoming Boss Mares Lead the Herd Workshop,” said Boss Mares, Inc. Board Member Ellen Bell. “As a leader in the cattle and ranching industry, Terry was the first woman president of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association and was named as a Sig-

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nificant Woman in Agriculture by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, and among other honors. We are honored that she is willing to share with us some of her life experiences as she represents the very best of women in agriculture and the Boss Mares spirit of leadership and commitment.” Held at the inspiring National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, the workshop will include museum and Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo admission, lunch, and will feature sessions focused on legal aid, business planning, marketing and branding. Aspiring attendees can register for one of the only 100 seats at bossmaresinc.org, free of charge thanks to underwriting from the Delaplaine Family Foundation and Mindy’s Hope Foundation. Registration will be required for the event to attend. Registration opens November 20. Launched early in 2023, Boss Mares, Inc., a 501(c)(3), is offering entrepreneur empowerment “Lead the Herd” workshops and awarding business and education grants. Grant applications will open in January with the award date of June 2025, following a selection process that is detailed onbossmaresinc.com. Co-founded by Anna Morrison, PhD, Patti Colbert and KateBradley Byars, all owners of businesses, Boss Mares, Inc. will support female business owners and entrepreneurs by providing access to resources in key areas, including accounting and finance support, continuing education, leadership and career coaching, legal counsel and marketing expertise. The leadership role in a herd of horses is held by a mare, known as the “boss mare.” 99

Avery Glynn Triumphs in the Desert as the Winner

of the 2024 Platinum Performance/USEF Talent Search Finals - West Thermal, Calif. – The 2024 Platinum Performance/USEF Talent Search Finals – West ended in exciting fashion at Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California on Sunday. The event saw junior and young rider athletes vie for the prestigious title after completing Phases III and IV. During Phase III, the competitors tackled a jumper-style course, with scores doubled to impact the overall standings. Advancing to the decisive Phase IV were the top four athletes, ready to display their skills in the ride-off. In Phase IV, the finalists started afresh, navigating the same course on their own horses before swapping Avery Glynn mounts to repeat the course on each of the other top horses. The winner, Avery Glynn, emerged triumphant, earning the esteemed Denali Memorial Per-

petual Trophy, while the best horse of the competition, Quiwian, was awarded The Gulliver Trophy. Reflecting on her victory, Glynn shared her thoughts, “The list of riders that have come before me winning this class is amazing. I am so happy, and I feel so excited to be included in the same list as so many other incredible riders. It’s really a pretty indescribable feeling.” Avery Glynn (Petaluma, Calif.), demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency throughout the competition aboard Change Up PS (Casio Berlin x St. Pr. Contessa), owned by Durango Farms, securing the top spot in Phase IV with an impressive score of 356. Her trainers Hope Glynn and Ned Glynn, were also recognized with the Leading Trainer Award. “I competed this week on an 8-year-old stallion. His name is Change Up PS and his barn name is Jengo.” Glynn shared that she first rode the Oldenburg stallion five days before the competition started. “I go to school at Auburn University and when I confirmed I would be able to travel back home to the west coast, David Bustillos lent me this horse and he has just been the most incredible partner. So scopey, a big stride, brave -- I’m just so lucky to have been able to show him.” Second place was claimed by Paige Walkenbach (Paradise Valley, Ariz.), riding her own horse Emi Initia (Inliner x Laila) to a commendable final score of 338. Victoria Zahorik (Bartonville, Tex.) secured third place aboard her own horse Quiwian (Quiwi Dream x Bala) with a score of 331, while Katharine Reuter (Mill Valley, Calif.) finished in fourth with Dior P Z (Diarado x Oravi), owned by Sofia Moskowitz, on a score of 304. Judges Kirsten Coe and Michael Tokaruk, gave high praise for the athletes. “This is an extraordinary group of riders.” said Coe, “I am so impressed, and they all interpreted the courses so quickly. These athletes are all part of the Paige Walkenbach future, and I really appreciate the fact that I was here.” Tokaruk discussed how he and Coe worked together to design the jumping course and complimented how well the athletes rode, “[Kirsten and I] both thought it would be fun to jump a version of the Olympic course in this competition. The athletes all really rose to the occasion and showed off their skills on four different horses over the course, it was really a pleasure to watch.” The Hollow Brook Wealth Management Sportsmanship Award was presented to Avery Glynn, honoring her exemplary integrity and sportsmanship throughout the Talent Search Finals – West competition. Top finishers also received additional prizes from LeMieux and YETI®.

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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a cornerstone in the management of pain and inflammation in performance horses. These medications, commonly used for conditions such as lameness, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries, help maintain a horse’s comfort and prolong their athletic career when used judiciously. Some of the most commonly used NSAIDs in performance horses include:

Using NSAIDs to Manage Pain in Performance Horses

Phenylbutazone (Bute): Effective for musculoskeletal pain and inflammation. Often administered orally or intravenously. Flunixin Meglumine (Banamine): Typically used for visceral pain, such as colic, and occasionally for soft tissue inflammation. Firocoxib (Equioxx): A COX-

2 selective NSAID with fewer gastrointestinal side effects, suitable for long-term use in conditions like osteoarthritis.

Benefits of NSAIDs

Pain Relief: Reduces discomfort, allowing the horse to perform at its best. Improved Mobility: Dimin-

ishes inflammation, improving range of motion and recovery. Enhanced Recovery: Helps manage chronic conditions, ensuring horses remain active in their discipline longer.

Risks and Considerations

While NSAIDs are highly effective, improper use can lead to significant complications: Gastrointestinal Ulcers: Prolonged or high doses can irritate the stomach lining, leading to ulcers. Kidney Damage: Dehydration combined with NSAID use increases the risk of renal issues. Masking Pain: Over-reliance on NSAIDs can mask underlying issues, delaying diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Responsible Use in Performance Horses

Veterinary Guidance: NSAID use should always be prescribed and monitored by a veterinarian to ensure the appropriate type and dosage for the horse’s condition. Adherence to Regulations: Most equestrian competition organizations, such as the FEI and USEF, have strict guidelines regarding NSAID administration. Exceeding allowable levels or combining multiple NSAIDs can lead to disqualification. Complementary Therapies: Incorporating alternative treatments like physical therapy, acupuncture, or regenerative medicine can reduce reliance on NSAIDs.

Conclusion

NSAIDs play a critical role in keeping performance horses comfortable and competitive, but their use requires careful oversight. Striking a balance between effective pain management and the horse’s long-term health ensures these athletes can perform safely and enjoy a good quality of life.

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2024 Pleasure Versatility Challenge Winner

By Rachel Griffin

Jiminy Cricket rode to a storybook ending November 16, claiming the win in the $50,000 Pleasure Versatility Challenge, presented by Super Sires.

AQHA Professional Horseman Anthony Montes of Aubrey, Texas, piloted the 2021 bay gelding to victory. Jiminy Cricket is by Batt Man and out of Two Kriketsonthewall. “Winning this feels amazing–it has been a goal of mine to win this class, and it means a lot to do it for such amazing people who mean a lot to me,” Anthony said. A veteran exhibitor of the PVC, this is Anthony’s first time to win the event. The PVC was the primary focus for Jiminy Cricket’s 2024 show season; he’s owned by Lindsay Gunderlock Smaltz of Yorba Linda, California. “Charlie Cole had bought him for Lindsay and Judy at the All American Quarter Horse Congress last year after he won the limited 2-year-old western pleasure with Katy Jo Zuidema, then Charlie sent him to me in September,” Anthony said. “Everyone has played a big part in helping me get to where he is, and together we pulled it off.” Designed to promote superior American Quarter Horses that demonstrate form to function, quality forward movement and trainability, the Pleasure Versatility Challenge tests entries in three phases of competition. First, horses must complete a pattern consisting of simplified trail and western riding maneuvers, sponsored by Cimarron Trailers. Next, the horses take to the rail to compete in a western pleasure class; this counts 40 percent and is sponsored by The Equine Chronicle. Finally, riders dismount and untack their horses, presenting them for a conformation class that counts for 20 percent and is sponsored by the World Conformation Horse Association. A unique set of four judges determined placings in each phase, with no overlap in judges. “I spent all day thinking about the pattern portion, and I was kind of insecure about it,” Anthony said. “Once I got out there, though, I thought, ‘All right, I’ve got this. All or nothing.’ For the western pleasure, I just tried to stay confident and do the best that I could. He has a great foundation in that, which was very helpful.” The go-for-gold mindset paid off, too, as the duo earned top-three placings in each of the PVC’s three phases, including a win in the pattern phase. Horses cannot have been shown astride in any western riding, trail or in any similar Pleasure Versatility Challenge event prior to the 2024 Nutrena AQHA World Championship Show official entry deadline of September 16. As of the official entry deadline and thereafter, horses may be shown without restriction at any competition without forfeiting Pleasure Versatility Challenge eligibility. There remains no eligibility restrictions for the western pleasure or conformation classes. No money earned at the PVC accrues against AQHA leveling eligibility. 104

AQHA hires Senior Manager of Corporate Development and Partnerships The world’s largest breed registry welcomes Todd Barden as the AQHA senior manager of corporate development and partnerships. fall broodmares and foals (Credit: Kathleen Nicholson) Barden will lead the Association’s corporate development strategy, fostering valuable partnerships that enhance the Association’s mission and offerings. The American Quarter Horse Association hires Todd Barden as the new senior manager of corporate development and partnerships. Barden began his new role September 23. Barden will lead the Association’s corporate development strategy, fostering valuable partnerships that enhance the Association’s mission and offerings. His extensive background in sponsorship activation, brand management and strategic planning will drive innovative collaborations and deliver impactful results for both AQHA and its corporate partners. “I am honored to join the AQHA team and contribute to the growth and success of an organization with such a rich legacy,” said Barden. “I look forward to developing meaningful partnerships that will support the Association’s future goals and enhance the experience for AQHA members and partners.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Todd to AQHA,” said Karl Stressman, AQHA chief executive officer. “His proven track record of partnership development and his passion for the equine industry make him a valuable addition to our team.” Barden brings over 20 years of proven expertise in building and managing successful corporate partnerships and sponsorships within the equine, rodeo and western industries. Throughout his career, Barden has demonstrated a track record of success, working with high-profile brands and organizations where he led initiatives for the National Reining Horse Association, Lazy E Arena and the National Cutting Horse Association. Most recently, as the owner of Fat Dog Outfitters LLC, Barden further refined his skills in corporate branding and licensed merchandise programs, offering tailored marketing solutions for niche agricultural markets. “We are thrilled to welcome Todd to AQHA,” said Karl Stressman, AQHA chief executive officer. “His proven track record of partnership development and his passion for the equine industry make him a valuable addition to our team.” Barden holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Texas A&M University and is recognized for his strategic thinking and attention to partner objectives that deliver results while maintaining strong, long-term relationships. AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more information visit www.aqha.com/ news or subscribe to our news text “AQHA In the Know” for the latest Association updates.

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By Ann Bleiker

WACO, TEXAS – While the WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer will not be crowned until next month in December, card members were already getting a jump start on the 2025 season this weekend at the WPRA World Finals in Waco, Texas.

2024 WPRA World Finals

Wrapped Up with Card Holder Race

Winning the Boot Barn card race was former world champion Fallon Taylor aboard FuryTime. Taylor turned rounded the cloverleaf pattern during the first round in a time of 15.702, was a 15.898 in the second round and wrapped up

the weekend with a 15.990 in the final round to win the average in a time of 47.590. She just edged out Andrea Busby, who will be making her first trip down the alley at the Thomas and Mack in December. Busby finished the weekend with a 47.632.

While card holders were starting their quest for the 2025 Wrangler NFR there were others that were looking to fill their permit and become eligible to buy their card for 2025. Ginger West won the permit average along with the first round aboard Barreras Superman. West won the average in a total time of

Fallon Taylor 47.933. The average alone paid $1,248 to easily fill her permit. An added bonus is that her horse Barrearas Superman was also voted the Professional Choice’s Outstanding Barrel Horse of the WPRA

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The Publisher and Editor cannot be held responsible for errors or any consequences arising from the use of information contained in this publication; the views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher and Editors, neither does the publication of advertisements constitute any endorsement by the Publisher and Editors of the products advertised.

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AQHA has been a sponsor of these awards for more than 30 years, because a majority of the horses ridden by professional rodeo cowboys and cowgirls are American Quarter Horses.

Success in the sport of rodeo doesn’t fall on just the cowboys and cowgirls. Their horses play just as big of factor when they step foot in the arena. The Nutrena Horse of the Year presented by AQHA awards provide recognition to ProRodeo’s top horses. The 2024 Nutrena Horse of the Year presented by AQHA awards were unveiled October 11. The top three horses in each category are listed below. AQHA has been a sponsor of these awards for more than 30 years, because a majority of the horses ridden by professional rodeo cowboys and cowgirls are American Quarter Horses. Read more about past Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association-AQHA horses of the year.

Team Roping Header

Espuela Bro “Spur” ridden by Tyler Wade and owned by Tyler and Jessi Wade

2024 Nutrena Horses of the Year

Off The Fence “Swamper” ridden by Will Lummus, Dakota Eldridge, and Winsten McGraw and owned by Broom Tree Ranch LLC

Tie-Down Roping

Figure To Fly “Lollipop” ridden and owned by Shad Mayfield Seven S Tomahawk “Smoke” ridden and owned by Haven Meged Major A 2009 “Earl” ridden and owned by Dylan Hancock

Barrel Racing 2024 PRCA Tie-Down Roping Figure to Fly “Lollipop” ridden and owned by Shad Mayfield. Photo credit: Roseanna Sales.

Cole E Man “Biscuit” ridden and owned by Andrew Ward Mr. Joe’s Shadow Bar “Joe” ridden by Clint Summers and owned by Clint and Darren Summers

FACT SHEET ON ARIZONA

AGRICULTURE’S NEW ECONOMIC NUMBER

Arizona – Tuesday, November 19, 2024 – Arizona agriculture’s and agribusiness’ overall economic contribution to the state is $30.9 billion, a just-released number based primarily on the United States Department of Agriculture’s Census of Agriculture, and a few other data sources. The Department of Agricultural & Resource Economics, University of Arizona Cooperative Extension’s economic team of Claudia Montanía, Dari Duval, George Frisvold, José Quintero have just announced the numbers at Arizona Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting in Tucson.

What: Arizona’s Agribusiness System in the State Economy Who, Researchers and authors: Claudia Montanía, Dari Duval, George Frisvold, José Quintero, Department of Agricultural & Resource Economics, University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Where: This statewide impact study report was just announced at Arizona Farm Bureau’s 2024 Annual Meeting in Tucson. Why: This study quantifies the importance of agriculture and agribusiness to Arizona’s economy. Agriculture and agribusiness include on-farm production of crops, livestock, and livestock products; agricultural support services; agricultural input suppliers; agricultural processing; and marketing and distribution. 108

Eds Famous Bar “Eddie” ridden by Dalton Massey, Stephen Culling, Ryan Shuckburgh, and Tanner Milan and owned by Tanner Milan

Team Roping Heeler

Kadabra King “Turbo” ridden by Patrick Smith and owned by Patrick and Christi Smith Cut Off My Spots “Coon” ridden and owned by Coleby Payne

Force The Goodbye “Jarvis” – ridden by Kassie Mowry, owned by the late Michael Boone (tie) DM Sissy Hayday “Sister” – ridden and owned by Hailey Kinsel DM High Roller “Vanilla Wafer” – ridden by LaTricia Duke, owned by Dillon & LaTricia Mundorf

TRR Freckles Holidoc “Cantina” ridden and owned by Logan Medlin

Breakaway Roping

Steer Roping

Catalac Escalade “Coon” – ridden and owned by TiAda Gray

Unbreykable “Big Country” ridden and owned by Kelton McMillen JKC Seven Freckles “Cotton” ridden by Trent Johnson and owned by Trent and Ayla Johnson JS Frosty Badger “Goose” Ridden by Scott Snedecor and owned by Scott and Kelli Snedecor

Steer Wrestling Finding Meno “Crush” ridden by Ty Erickson, JD Struxness, and Rowdy Parrott and owned by TC Equine LLC

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Stylish Drifter “Dutch” – ridden and owned by Josie Conner

Oke Colours “Copper” – ridden by Rickie Fanning, owned by Rhett Fanning

Pickup Man

Guys High On Fame “Tuffy” ridden by Tyler Kraft and owned by Tyler and Vanessa Kraft Jack On Moon “Spider” ridden by Matt Twitchell and owned by Clegg Livestock Co Inc Aspeka Oakie Bar “Shorty” ridden and owned by Randy Britton

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Sun Circuit Judges 2025

Join us for another unforgettable Sun Circuit where winning extends beyond the arena and the memories last a lifetime. Your 2025 Judges Jonathan Meilleur Buddy Fisher

Dean Bogart Liz Baker Shannon Holbin Chris Jones Brendan Brown Michele Tidwell Daren Wright Pierre Brierre Judd Paul Sandy Curl Rhonda Repogle Sissy Anderson Steve Meadows Theodore Grose Lynda Danielson Milt Alderman Tom Neel Fielding Rogers Chris Benedict Frank Craighead Gary Wells Andi Paul Leo Fourre

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FORMER PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDER TURNED SINGER-SONGWRITER CADEN GILLARD RELEASES NEW SINGLE “COWBOY WAY” TODAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2024

Prior to Performances in Las Vegas durig NFR at The Rio NASHVILLE, Tenn. - This Black Friday, following the official music video release for “Just Outside of Dallas,” on Country Rebel, former professional bull rider Caden Gillard releases the highly anticipated new single, “Cowboy Way, “ today, Friday, November 29, 2024. Gillard will perform the single live for the first time in Las Vegas during the the 66th Annual Wrangler National Final Rodeo. In this timeless tribute to the cowboy code, Gillard recounts the life lessons his father taught him and commits to carrying on his father’s legacy and to living his life the cowboy way. With heartfelt lyrics and a soulful melody, Gillard’s smooth, rich vocals bring to life themes of hard work, tradition, and leaving a legacy. Catch Gillard live from 12-2p at the Rio for Cowboy Lifestyle Network’s watch party in Las Vegas December 5th-8th. Fans can also find Gillard’s most recent singles, “Rewind” and “Silhouette,” on all digital stores and streaming apps including Spotify and Apple Music, which have garnered over 400,000 streams. Follow Gillard on Instagram, Facebook, Spotify and Apple Music.

About Caden Gillard:

From the rodeo arena spotlight to the center stage of honky-tonks, former professional bull rider Caden Gillard has been captivating crowds across the nation with his tenacity and talent. An inspiration and testament of true grit, Gillard taught himself to pic the guitar in 2009 while battling Leukemia, where he often performed for staff and other patients in the hospital. Once he conquered cancer, he set his sites on conquering his gold buckle dreams. As a road warrior, he fine-tuned his songwriting skills on the PRCA rodeo circuit, while singing and playing between go-rounds. Combining a unique blend of old school honky-tonk, red dirt country, rock ‘n roll and a hint of blues, Caden Gillard burst onto the scene in 2018 with the release of his debut album Gold Buckle Dreams, followed by the release of Red Dirt Rock N Roll in 2020 and most recently, Love & Heartbreak in 2022. “Back to Life,” the lead single off his most recent EP, landed at #52 on the Music Row Chart, following “Too Good to Turn Down” and “Last Cowboy” charting on the Texas Music Chart. The Southwest Louisiana native now calls Nashville home, where he’s elevating his music career writing, recording and performing at several iconic writer rounds. Gillard and his band, “six string circus,” have been making their way across the country garnering a loyal and devoted fanbase, while sharing the stage with country music super stars such as Zach Bryan, Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Koe Wetzel, Midland, Sara Evans, LoCash, Drake White, Kevin Fowler, Zane Williams and more. Click HERE for a full list of Gillard’s upcoming tour dates. BRIDLE & BIT DECEMBER 2024

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Merck Animal Health Announces FDA Approval of SAFE-GUARD® AQUASOL (fenbendazole oral suspension) for Use in Backyard Chicken Flocks Only FDA-approved chicken dewormer designed for home use RAHWAY, N.J., Nov. 13, 2024 – Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health outside of the United States and Canada, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (NYSE:MRK), today announced U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of SAFE-GUARD® AQUASOL (fenbendazole oral suspension) for use in backyard chicken flocks, making it the only FDAapproved chicken dewormer designed for home use. SAFE-GUARD AQUASOL is indicated for the treatment and control of adult Ascaridia galli in broiler chickens and replacement chickens and for the treatment and control of adult Ascaridia galli and Heterakis gallinarium in breeding chickens and laying hens. It is administered orally to chickens by adding a daily dose to drinking water for five consecutive days. “Chicken flocks of any size can be affected by intestinal

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Ayrstone® announces new features for the new AyrMesh® HubDuo Meshing Modes allow HubDuo users to adjust the Hub for either the traditional AyrMesh long-range meshing, with Hubs at least half a mile apart, or a new close-in mesh. Using the “close” meshing option, AyrMesh HubDuo units can be placed as close as 100 feet apart up to half a mile apart. It does this by shifting the meshing signal between the 2.4 GHz. radio and the 5.8 GHz. radio. The new AyrMesh HubDuo is an outdoor, high-power, meshing WiFi access point, like the existing AyrMesh Hubs, with one important difference: it is the first AyrMesh Hub to use dual-band technology. The new HubDuo is designed to deliver very high-speed outdoor WiFi to nearby devices, and standard high-speed WiFi at longer distances. Like the AyrMesh Hub2x2, using MIMO the AyrMesh HubDuo can provide broadband-class WiFi to hundreds or even thousands of acres of property. “We have had a number of customers who wanted to put AyrMesh Hubs on their farmyards or other rural businesses much closer together than our existing products can accommodate,” said Bill Moffitt, President of Ayrstone Productivity. “With ‘normal mode,’ the HubDuos mesh with all the AyrMesh Hub products on 2.4 GHz. ‘Close mode’ allows them to just mesh with other AyrMesh HubDuos on 5.8 GHz., so the Hubs can be placed as close as a hundred feet apart. Best of all, there’s a ‘hybrid mode’ that uses the 2.4 GHz. mesh to communicate with AyrMesh Hub2 units half a mile to 2 miles away while using the 5.8 Ghz. mesh to communicate with other AyrMesh HubDuo units that may be as close as a few hundred feet.”

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AQHA crowns the 2024 Nutrena Senior Athletes of the Adequan® Select World

Ranching Heritage Top Horses

Three horses earned additional honors at the 2024 Nutrena AQHA and Adequan® Select World Championship Shows. Three AQHA Ranching Heritage-Bred horses earned special awards at the 2024 Nutrena AQHA World Championship Show; AQHA Select World Championship Show, presented by Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan); Adequan® Level 2 Championships; and AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions at the OKC Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City November 1-20. The top AQHA Ranching Heritage-Bred Award winners receive a specially designed trophy and a $250 cash prize to both the owner and the breeder for this honor. The top-placing Ranching Heritage-Bred horse is awarded in the amateur, Select amateur and open divisions, with the tie-breaker going to the horse that defeats the most horses. Anyone can show these horses, which are eligible for special events such as AQHA Ranching Heritage Challenges. Amateur: This Cats Forever, 2013 bay gelding by WR This Cats Smart and out of Soula Jule Forever by Soula Jule Star; bred by Garth and Amanda Gardiner of Lipan, Texas; owned by Jay and Wendy McLaughlin of Amarillo, Texas, and shown by Cutter McLaughlin of Amarillo, Texas. Select Amateur: Always Do, 2018 gray gelding by Cat Man Do and out of Greyt Little Steps by Greyt Whiz; bred by the WT Waggoner Estate of Vernon, Texas; owned by Dana and the late Bob Avila of Scottsdale, Arizona, and shown by Dana Avila. Open: Sue C Royalty, 2020 bay mare by One Time Royalty and out of Sue C Lena by Lenas Wright On; bred by Richard A Jr. and Lori L. Wyman of Osceola, Nebraska; owned by Sherri and Phil Tearney of Louisburg, Kansas and shown by AQHA Professional Horseman J. D. Yates of Pueblo, Colorado. The AQHA Ranching Heritage program highlights ranches that are certified as AQHA Ranching Heritage Breeders. These working cattle ranches produce quality horses needed on the ranch. The program is designed to showcase the qualities of a working ranch horse by recognizing the top Ranching Heritage-Bred horses competing at major events. To find out more about the AQHA Ranching Heritage program, visit www.aqha.com/ranching.

Donald Tisdall of Castle Rock, Colorado, and Truly A San Peppy were named the 2024 Nutrena Senior Athletes of the Show for the second year in a row at the 2024 AQHA Select World Championship Show, presented by Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan). The award is presented to the exhibitor and horse with the highest combined age competing at the Adequan® Select World. The Nutrena Senior Athletes of the Show Award recognizes not only the exhibitors, but their equine partners. AQHA has proudly teamed up with AQHA Corporate Partner Nutrena on this award since 2012. Truly A San Peppy is a 1999 sorrel gelding by San Laureles Peppy and out of Miss Pretty Truly 78. Truly A San Peppy was bred by Dent Bradley of Dimmitt, Texas. Tisdall and Truly A San Peppy showed in Select heeling. Tisdall and Truly A San Peppy received a prize package that includes 500 pounds of Nutrena feed and a specially designed plaque.

USEF Competitor Biosecurity GR 870 states “All riders, drivers, vaulters, handlers, owners, trainers, coaches, grooms, agents and lessors must abide by and comply with biosecurity measures and equine health requirements imposed by the Federation, Competition Management, and local, state, and federal animal health officials”. All USEF members are reminded to review the prize list, websites and event social media for biosecurity requirements for each specific event. Failure to follow specified biosecurity requirements for the venue will result in a violation of the new GR870 and possible enforcement action by the Federation.

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Reporting of a Fever

A rise in a horse’s temperature is a typical first sign of an infectious disease. In some cases, a horse can have a fever before shedding viruses or bacteria. Thus, early identification of a fever and isolation of potential infectious disease cases are critical to protecting and promoting equine health at a competition. To best monitor your horse’s health at the competition, we strongly recommend checking your horses temperature two times a day and logging said temperatures. GR 873 requires fevers (unexplained temperatures above 101.50 F at rest) to be reported to the competition veterinarian and competition management no later than two hours after detection. 113

Announcing PresidentElect Mike Holloway & BOD nominees By Jessica Hein The APHA Board of Directors officer team elected Mike Holloway as 2025 president-elect. The president-elect is selected from the existing members on the APHA Board of Directors; electing officers are the current APHA president (Kelly Boles Chapman), current president-elect (Diane Alves), immediate past president (David Lands) and chief executive officer (David Dellin). Mike will assume the role of presidentelect in March 2025, and take office as president in 2026. Mike has been part of the Board of Directors since 2022 and is from Brandon, Mississippi.

NLDC-Selected Nominees

The Nominating & Leadership Development Committee recently selected four candidates for the APHA Board of Director spots coming open in 2025. Nominees are:

Paul Caliendo, Pilot Point, Texas James Howard, Wayne, Oklahoma Laurie Roden, Phoenix, Arizona Kevin Smith, Magnolia, Texas

Each nominee brings exceptional experience, commitment and vision to the table. The NLDC is confident the nominees’ leadership will be instrumental in steering APHA toward continued success. Their videos, bios and resumes are available for review. Explore their profiles and learn more about their valuable contributions to the APHA community. The nominations for positions on the Board of Directors and the NLDC. Members include David Lands, Kelly Boles Chapman, Diane Alves, Lisa Laplace, Diane Paris, John Briggs, Mark Kuhlwein, Delena Doyle and Sandy Curl. Reprinting all or part of this news release is permitted. Please credit the Paint Horse Journal. 114

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WPRA Roping Champions Crowned

By Ann Bleiker

WACO, TEXAS – It was Championship Day for the ropers at the WPRA World Finals in Waco, Texas, on Saturday November 9. Titles were handed out to the 2024 tie-down, team roping (header and heeler) and all-around champions. Winning her second world title in the team roping heeling was Lorraine Moreno finishing the year with $13,604 edging out Kelsie Domer who had $10,056. Moreno of Mathis, Texas, roped this weekend with Kayelen Helton of Stephenville, Texas, to capture the average title as well. The duo finished with 30.1 seconds on three head for the weekend. Helton was edged out by Kenzie Kelton for the world title on the heading side.

Kenzie Kelton

Kelton of Mayer, Arizona, won her first world title with $13,803 on the year. During the 2024 WPRA World Finals she roped with Haiden Thompson, and they finished sixth in the average.

Haiden Thompson

Thompson won her first all-around world title after collecting $7,084 with a dominate performance on Saturday winning the third round in the breakaway roping in a lighting fast time of 1.6 seconds.

Kolby Boyett

Winning the tie-down roping world title was rookie Kolby Boyett of Grove, Oklahoma, edging four-time world champion Kari Nixon for the title. Boyett finished the year with $2,206 while Nixon finished with $1,719. Second round in the Boot Barn card race was won by Loni Kay Yates aboard Mercy She’s Fabulous in a time of 15.706 seconds to add $2,936 to her 2025 world standings. 2024 Wrangler NFR qualifier Carlee Otero was second aboard Blingolena in a time of 15.707. She added $2,517 to her 2025 earnings. The top 30 in the average advanced to the final round on Sunday. Leading the average is Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi with a 31.568 after stopping the clock in the first round with a 15.790 and the second with a 15.778. World titles were also awarded in the Futurity and Derby division. Winning the Futurity 1D world title for the second consecutive year was Heidi Gunderson. In 2023, she won it aboard JDJacksonKandyman and in 2024 she rode Lucky Blaze to the title. Bailey Webb Olson won the Futurity 2D aboard Cudas Fury. Becca Gilley aboard WPH Buzzed Up Latte took home the Derby title. All results can be found at www.wpra.com. 126

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.During the past three weeks, the top exhibitors and horses have been competing at the 2024 Nutrena AQHA World Championship Show; AQHA Select World Championship Show, presented by Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan); Adequan® Level 2 Championships; and AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions classes. The 2024 AQHA All-Around Amateur Award is presented to the exhibitor and horse team

AQHA All-Around Amateur Crowned that earns the most points in three or more Level 3 amateur Katie Jo Jones is events in three or more categories during the show. crowned the AQHA AllThe 2024 AQHA All-Around Around Amateur at the Amateur is Katie Jo Jones 2024 Nutrena AQHA and of Charlotte, North Carolina, Adequan® Select World who owns and showed Im Championship Shows Extremelyschmancy. The 2018 brown mare by Extremely Hot Chips and out of Im Fancy Schmancy was bred by Jeri Kay Lockwood of Parker, Colorado. Jones and Im Extremelyschmancy earned 43.5 points in amateur competition earning the world champion title in horsemanship, reserve world champion title in performance halter mares, bronze world championship in showmanship, ninth in hunt seat equitation, 10th in trail and were finalists in western riding. The team received a prize package that included a neck wreath, $10,000 and a Lisa Perry Bronze. The reserve all-around amateur is Kaleena Weakly of Shelbyville, Illinois, who showed Moonlite Cruiser. The 2010 bay gelding by Only In The Moonlite and out of A Radical Blaze is owned by Josh Weakly of Shelbyville, Illinois, and was bred by Steven and Susan Thompson of Hillsboro, Ohio. Weakly and Moonlite Cruiser earned 42 points. In amateur competition, the pair were the world champions in showmanship and trail, sixth in performance geldings, eighth in hunt seat equitation and were finalists in horsemanship. The pair received $5,000 and a silver cup.

About the Show

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The Nutrena AQHA World, Adequan® Select World and Adequan® Level 2 Championships are the premier events in the equine industry for amateur, Select amateur and open exhibitors. The show includes Level 3 and Adequan® Level 2 classes, as well as AQHA Level 1 Champion of Champions classes.

By Amy Young Researchers at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine marked a milestone in equine assisted reproductive technologies with the first successful use of frozen-thawed sperm for in vitro fertilization (IVF) production of equine embryos. These promising results, just published in Theriogenology, have the potential for broader clinical applications, as well as valuable opportunities to study fertilization and embryo development. Although IVF is commonly used in many species from livestock to humans, it has historically met with little success in horses. Recent advances demonstrated IVF embryo production, but only using high quality, fresh sperm, which limits its use. Little is currently known about the use of IVF in equine reproduction, including how embryo development proceeds and whether it differs significantly from other approaches. Pouya Dini, DVM, Ph.D., Ph.D., DECAR, DACT, an equine reproductive specialist, and his team at the UC Davis Veterinary Assisted Reproduction Laboratory, including Ph.D. student Soledad Martin-Pelaez, DVM, DACT, and Professor Emeritus Stuart Meyers, DVM, MS, Ph.D., DACT, recently reported using frozen-thawed sperm to successfully fertilize equine oocytes and create embryos. They analyzed stages of embryo development, which were compared to those achieved with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), the current clinical practice for in vitro production of equine embryos in which a single sperm is injected directly into an oocyte. Overall, development rates were no different, although IVF cycles proceeded faster and embryos were larger, perhaps suggesting a more advanced developmental stage. In vitro production (IVP) of equine embryos is routinely performed worldwide. It enables

UC Davis First to Produce Equine Embryos By In Vitro Fertilization with Frozen Sperm

production of offspring from mares and stallions that are unable to reproduce using traditional techniques and provides new opportunities for genetic advancement and reproductive success. The ability to use frozen-thawed sperm for IVF further expands reproductive options by enabling the use of

stallions that are geographically distant, allowing the use of sperm from stallions that are actively competing (collection is undesirable during competition seasons) or there is a limitation on the amount of available semen, and facilitating the rescue of valuable genetics from deceased stallions. Our team is excited to advance

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IVP of equine embryos to overcome historical challenges. The ability to use frozen-thawed sperm for IVF would be a valuable addition to current equine assisted reproductive technologies and would benefit both stallion and mare owners. This collaborative effort is the first step in evaluating the expansion of future equine IVF applications in the clinic.”

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