Reined Cow Horse News – Official Show Program 2024, Volume 29, No. 5
Horse Takes
Cow Town
by Jayne Vatcher and shown by Corey Cushing
Photo by Kaycie Timm
Lanham Brown and Miss Blue Bayou won the Non Pro NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® with a 654 composite on all three events. The win added $40,000 to his lifetime earnings.
Smooth As A Cat’s impact on the industry started early on, and today he’s still going strong. Listed here is what he has accomplished in just the past 10 months.
These performers represent Smooth As A Cat’s bloodline. They are either sired by Smooth As A Cat, out of one of his daughters, or sired by one of his sons.
2023 NRCHA FUTURITY
1 CHAMPION
5 RESERVE CHAMPIONS including the Open Reserve Champion out of a Smooth As A Cat daughter
25 Finalists
2023 NRCHA NATIONAL STANDINGS
15 In the top 10 including 1 in the top 5 for Hackamore Open
2023 NRCHA CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS
2 RESERVE CHAMPIONS
10 Finalists
2024 NRCHA WORLD’S GREATEST HORSEMAN
3 CHAMPIONS, including the Hackamore Non Pro Champion out of a Smooth As A Cat daughter, and Bridle Open Champion by Smooth As A Cat
2 RESERVE CHAMPIONS
18 Finalists
2024 THE AMERICAN HORSEMAN WORKING COW HORSE OPEN CHAMPION
2024 NRCHA STALLION STAKES
2 CHAMPIONS
1 RESERVE CHAMPION
16 Finalists
ACT
2025
PHOTO BY MEGAN PARKS
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Welcome to the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®!
We’re excited to have you with us at the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® presented by Metallic Cat! During the show’s 16 days in Fort Worth, Texas, it offer endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the traditions and activities that make our cow horse family unique. From the 3-year-old snaffle-bit horses to the horse show classes, you’ll have the chance to experience every phase of cow horse training and level of rider here at the Will Rogers Memorial Center.
The first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® in 1970 featured 27 open entries. At this year’s event, we have more than 300, plus more than 70 non pro entries. We’re excited to see this growth, as it indicates the strength of our sport, its popularity among Western performance events and people’s enthusiasm for our horses and our traditions.
As a nod to our roots, last year we created the NRCHA Triple Crown Incentive, which is awarded to the rider who wins the Open Hackamore, Open Bridle and Open NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® in the same year—a feat only achieved once by the great Bobby Ingersoll in 1975. The purse rolls over annually if there’s no winner. This incentive joins the many others offered
during the show, including the Western Bloodstock Sale Incentive, the American Paint Horse Association Chrome Cash Incentive, the Gelding Incentive and the Mare Incentive sponsored by East West Equine.
While you won’t want to miss a thing the entire show, the final days of the 2024 event are actionpacked with something for everyone. The excitement begins on Wednesday with the herd work finals for all Open divisions and the start of the American Rope Horse Futurity Association World Championships, which run through Saturday. Thursday kicks off with the Open Hackamore and Bridle finals, plus the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Western Bloodstock Sale preview (details on page 84) and the inaugural Diamond Anniversary Night at the Stockyards event celebrating the association’s 75th anniversary and benefitting the NRCHA Foundation; learn more about it on page 20. On Friday, we have the Intermediate and Limited Open finals for the reined and fence work and the continuation of the sale. Saturday is the main event, with the Open reined and fence work finals, the conclusion of the sale and the rope horse futurity.
We wish all competitors, owners and breeders the best of luck at the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and welcome all newcomers to our sport!
Official Publication of the National Reined Cow Horse Association
Published by Morris Equine Group a division of MCC Magazines, LLC
Director of Media & Communications: Callie McCarthy-Boevers
Director of Sponsorship & Outreach: Jordan Tierney
Director of Programs: Tara Carter
Incentive & Marketing Manager: Patty Tiberg
Programs Assistant: Teighlor Cross
Premier Event Manager: Tina McCleary
Membership Coordinator: Ashley Valor
Shows Coordinator: Taylor Meek
Accounting Associate: Marilee Nies
CALLIE BOEVERS
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Celebrate our legacy with us.
As NRCHA President and an active competitor, I’d like to welcome you to the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, presented by Metallic Cat. This is the crown jewel of our premier events, and we’re excited to bring together competitors, owners, breeders and fans to enjoy the talents of our horses, the skills of our riders and the camaraderie of our cow horse family.
This year marks NRCHA’s 75th anniversary. That’s quite a milestone and is a tribute to our roots and how far we’ve come without forgetting our traditions. From the way we train our horses to the tack we use to the core values of our community, our roots and traditions are what set us apart and make the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® unique.
During the 16 days of this event, you’ll find something for everyone, from kids to adults, young horses to bridle horses, cow horses to rope horses, and working ranch cowboys to NRCHA Million Dollar Riders. No matter where you go on the Will Rogers Memorial Complex, you’ll run into friendly faces, new and old friends and everything cow horse that you can imagine.
In celebration of our association’s 75th anniversary, you won’t want to miss the Diamond Anniversary Night at the Stockyards on Thursday, October 17, at Billy Bob’s Texas. It’s the perfect opportunity to come together with friends to enjoy a night on the town while supporting the NRCHA Foundation, raising money for youth scholarships, the Cowboy Crisis Fund and our heritage preservation efforts. You can learn all about this inaugural event on page 20.
As you spend your time here at the event, whether it’s the entire show or one day, we know you’ll make memories to last a lifetime, whether that’s winning the Open Finals or buying a horse that puts you on a path toward success. Good luck to all our competitors, owners and breeders!
Boyd Rice, NRCHA President
That’s how long we’ve been building boots. And we don’t just at tach our name to some boots made by someone else. We pour our hearts into building them, from th e ground up, in our own family-owned factories, filled with talented craftsmen whose skills have been passed down through generations.
THE RIOS OF MERCEDES FAMILY OF BRANDS
Lead This Life Lead This Life
FROM THE JUDGE’S CHAIR
The best judge is the one who is consistent and fair.
The other day, one of my friends asked me, “Who do you consider the best NRCHA judge?” I thought, “Wow, good question; let me give it some thought.”
After thinking about it, I concluded there isn’t such a thing as the “best” judge. The reason is we have three disciplines to judge, and every official has their strong points and weak points. The better judges have more depth of knowledge and experience and can evaluate all three disciplines with confidence, which only comes with time. So, the answer to the original question is: We have a group of judges that we consider in the best category.
The best judges have certain traits that put them in this elite category. The first is consistency. It isn’t easy to be consistent in your scores and placings from the start of the day until the finish, day after day. It takes focus, knowledge of the rulebook and familiarity with the score sheets to be successful. The good judges manage to accomplish this most of the time. (No one is mistake-free; the better judges make fewer mistakes.) Their scores, in general, reflect what actually happened in the work, which is the point of high-level judging.
Consistency is also important when calling penalties and giving credit. Obvious penalties should be called the same without exception. If it’s not apparent, it should be factored into the run content. Being careful not to over- or under-weigh the amount the penalty influenced the run content and assigning a score that makes sense is the sign of a knowledgeable judge.
Being consistent with credit isn’t as easy as it sounds. The good works, from start to finish, aren’t as difficult to score correctly as the up-and-down runs that are
more common. These runs are not all good or poor, but somewhere in the middle. The challenge is to come up with a balanced score that takes all the ups and downs into consideration. This takes practice.
Don Dodge, a judging mentor of mine and NRCHA Hall of Famer, always said,
“Stay within the rules and stay on the high side.” I’ve found out that if you have two numbers that are legitimate scores for a work, always stay with the higher mark as long as the score sheet will back you up. This theory applies more to the herd work and cow work. This opens the scorecard and allows you to place horses with fewer ties.
The definition of being fair is being reasonable, right and just. All anyone can ask for when showing a horse is to get a fair shake and have a chance for success if warranted. If you do well, your score should reflect the positive; if you do poorly, the score will reflect the negative. It shouldn’t matter who you are, what you or your horse have won in the past, the crowd noise— none of that should count if judged fairly. We’ve had NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® winners that would’ve been considered long shots to win. They peaked at the right time and won the ultimate prize, and rightfully so. The judges scored their runs for what they were worth without prejudice. That’s what positive judging is all about.
Being consistent and fair as a judge is a win-win. It gives the exhibitors, owners and the people in the crowd the confidence that the horses with the best works will score and place correctly. The industry grows, and everyone involved wins. For the judges, getting it right is an accomplishment that should make them proud of a job well done.
Bill Enk, NRCHA Director of Judges
THE BETTER JUDGES
HAVe
MORe DePtH Of KNOWleDGe AND eXPeRieNCe AND CAN eVAluAte All tHRee DiSCiPliNeS WitH CONfiDeNCe, WHiCH ONly COMeS WitH tiMe.”
—Bill
Enk
FROM THE
Young riders have many opportunities for fun and fundraising during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®.
BY THE NRCHA YOUTH COMMITTEE
Each year during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, NRCHyA comes together for fun activities and fundraising to support youth programs. Here’s a sample of those opportunities at this year’s show.
NRCHyA will once again raise funds in collaboration with the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Western Bloodstock Sales. Todd Crawford, an NRCHA professional and dedicated youth advisor, has collaborated tirelessly with Jeremy Barwick, Jeff Oswood, Brock Malson and the entire Western Bloodstock team to curate a selection of donated breedings or frozen semen from stallions enrolled in the NRCHA Cow Horse Incentive. This fundraiser plays a crucial role in supporting the youth by providing scholarships, educational opportunities and new programs for the upcoming year.
You won’t want to miss the goat-roping fundraiser during the show. Similar to the dummy roping hosted at the Stallion Stakes, teams enter for a small fee and compete for prize money, with proceeds supporting youth programs.
Furthermore, the American Rope Horse Futurity Association will hold its prestigious World Championship Rope Horse Futurity at the John Justin Arena from October 16 to 19, coinciding with the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. As part of their event, the ARHFA has teamed up with Rafter P Construction INC™ to host a dummy-roping competition on October 18, with a portion of proceeds benefiting NRCHyA. The youth are thrilled to foster strong partnerships with external associations, showcasing their dedication to collaboration and growth.
In addition to the fundraisers, a variety of exciting youth events will take place. Back by popular demand, NRCHyA will host a fast-paced boot race. Bet He Sparks has sponsored a costume lead-line and stick-horse race. Encouraging all youth to participate, the Be He Sparks Buckaroo Class will take place for those who want to build confidence with the flag before they move to cattle. For youth looking to build confidence before showing, the Cow Horsin’ Around cow class will be available as a fun way to prepare for the pressure of performance.
NRCHyA is beyond thankful for all the support and wishes all competitors the best of luck.
Breedings to the following stallions have been donated to the NRCHyA Stallion Auction:
Hashtags
Smooth Talkin Style
Third Edge
Badboonarising
Cool N Hot
Metallic Rebel
Catolena Cashin In CR Gotcha Covered
Hottish Metal
Bet He Sparks
Magicality
My Pistols Hott
One Fine Vintage
One Time Pepto
Hickory Holly Time
Reyzin The Cash
Swing Wide
Shining Spark
Countin Hot Checks
FROM THE
Join the NRCHA Foundation for a special event.
The NRCHA Foundation invites you to the first-ever Diamond Anniversary Night at the Stockyards event held Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Billy Bob’s Texas, during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. The inaugural event will raise money for the NRCHA Foundation to support the Foundation’s commitment to raising money for youth scholarships, the Cowboy Crisis Fund and heritage preservation efforts.
During this can’t-miss gala, attendees will celebrate the spirit of the West while dining on cowboy cuisine, socializing with NRCHA family new and old and enjoying a special live painting session by NRCHA member and Streakin Be Art owner Josey Butler. Enjoy silent and live auctions, featuring one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
We’re so excited for this event. We’re actively seeking donors for the auctions and can’t wait to celebrate our cow horse family during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. If you’re interested in
donating or sponsoring, please reach out to me at foundation@nrcha.com or visit https://nrcha.co/nrcha-foundation night-at-the-stockyards
The event will kick off with a cocktail hour at 5 p.m., Central time, continue with a buffet dinner at 6:15 p.m., move into the program and auctions at 7 p.m. and cap off with dancing to Southern Chrome— Dallas-Fort Worth’s hottest country cover band—at 9 p.m. Tickets begin at $120 for a single and increase by sponsorship level, which includes reserved tables and other amenities.
“This special addition to the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® helps celebrate our cow horses and members outside the arena for a night of fun and camaraderie,” said NRCHA Executive Director Emily Konkel. “We can’t wait to share this evening with our community and cow horse fans.”
Find complete details and purchase tickets at https://nrcha.co/nrcha-foundation night-at-the-stockyards or contact foundation@nrcha.com with questions.
Chelsea Edsall, NRCHA Foundation Chairperson
NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales
J
oin In! October 18 th & 19 th
Will Rogers Equestrian Center • Fort Worth, Texas
2023 H igh Sellers!
Early Consignments Include —
A REBELS LEGACY 2019 chestnut mare (Metallic Rebel x One Time Legacy, by One Time Pepto). CS - Smooth Talkin Style ‘25. LTE $4,180. Dam LTE $25,218. Dam’s siblings earned $396,773.
BOONS SHINEY NU CAT 2023 red roan stallion (WR This Cats Smart x Shiney Nu And Blu, by Once In A Blu Boon). Dam money earner. Dam’s siblings earned $412,286.
BORDERLINE OBSESSED 2023 black stallion (Badboonarising x Metallic Quintan 014, by Metallic Cat). Dam LTE $17,411. Dam’s siblings earned $818,336.
CALL ME TUFFF 2023 red roan stallion (Call Me Mitch x CR Double Tuff, by Woody Be Tuff). Dam LTE $14,745. Dam’s siblings earned $81,159.
CAUSEOFCONVERSATION 2023 bay mare (Smooth Talkin Style x E Laine, by Thomas E Hughes). Dam LTE $60,316. Dam PE $4,046.
CSR TATUMS MVP 2023 red roan stallion (Metallics MVP x Bitten, by Boonlight Dancer). Dam’s siblings earned $239,525. 2nd dam LTE $86,194.
DAISY JANE 2023 sorrel mare (Metallic Cat x Scooters Daisy Dukes, by Dual Smart Rey). Dam LTE
$96,453. Dam PE $1,188,698.
FIDDLE FOR ME DEAR 2023 red roan stallion (Fiddle And Steel x Time To Shine Dear, by One Time Pepto). Dam’s siblings earned $175,225
GRAND KINGDOM 2023 palomino stallion (One Time Royalty x Lighten Up Missy, by CD Lights). Dam LTE
$3,647. Dam’s full siblings earned $316,769.
Black Magic Woman $180,000 Highly Hazardous $150,000
GREYISH 2023 gray mare (Dual Reyish x TR Miss Graygun, by Playgun). Dam LTE $41,815. Dam PE $2,580.
HELLO REBYL 2023 red roan mare (Metallic Rebel x Hello Kitty Hawk, by War Bird Dog). Dam LTE $12,559.
HERSHEL DUAL REYISH 2023 sorrel stallion (Dual Reyish x Cats Best Bet, by Bet On Me 498). Dam LTE $1,408. Dam’s siblings earned $354,078.
HISSTORICOLE 2023 chestnut stallion (NRR Cat King Cole x Hisstereya, by Dual Rey). Dam LTE $133,311. Dam PE $268,181. Dam’s siblings earned $1,525,093.
HOT BLONDE 2023 sorrel mare (One Time Pepto x Hot Shiney Lights, by CD Lights). Dam LTE $26,536. Dam’s siblings earned $104,025.
INDIAN POW WOW 2023 sorrel stallion (Cool N Hot x Cats Peptolena, by High Brow Cat). Dam LTE $138,462. Dam PE $458,539.
IR VON JOVI 2023 red roan stallion (Stevie Rey Von x LK Travelin Time, by One Time Pepto). Dam’s siblings earned $240,275.
KATZMEIFYOUCAN 2023 sorrel mare (Metallics MVP x Katzup, by High Brow Cat). Dam LTE $15,520. Dam PE $14,816. Dam’s siblings earned $847,510.
KR SHE B A TALKER 2023 sorrel mare (Smooth Talkin Style x She Be Metallic, by Metallic Cat). Dam LTE $86,028. Dam’s siblings earned $121,249.
LAST SEASON PRADA 2023 red roan mare (Hashtags x ARC Cat Her Please, by Chic Please). Dam LTE $127,467. Dam PE $143,734.
LET THE BEAT DROP 2023 red roan stallion (Stevie Rey Von x One Time At Bandcamp, by One Time Pepto). Dam LTE $92,448.
LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER 2023 red roan stallion (Hashtags x Carly Rey, by Dual Rey). Dam LTE $21,053. Dam’s siblings earned $204,350.
LIL TEXAS ROYALTY 2022 bay mare (One Time Royalty x Misters Peppy Girl, by Mister Dual Pep). Dam LTE
$4,404. Dam PE $6,279. Dam’s siblings earned $89,539.
LU SEA LU 2012 sorrel mare (Smart Mate x Miss Sea Rey, by Dual Rey). 2025 Rebreed - Countin Hot Checks. LTE $21,279. PE $105,895. Siblings earned $414,755.
MISS TALKIN REYCINE 2018 sorrel mare (Smooth Talkin Style x Miss Reycine, by Dual Rey). CS - Third Edge ‘25. Dam LTE $119,894. Dam PE $695,511.
MISTEVIOUS 2023 red roan mare (Stevie Rey Von x Hot Shiney Lights, by CD Lights). Dam LTE $26,536. Dam’s siblings earned $104,025.
MONEY REBEL 2019 red roan mare (Metallic Rebel x Money Talks Smart, by Smart Mate). CS - Smooth Talkin Style ‘25. Siblings earned $807,891.
ONE TIME DONA 2009 chestnut mare (One Time Pepto x Donas Cool Cat, by High Brow Cat). CSHashtags ‘25. LTE $10,000. Producer of money earner. Siblings earned $1,679,410.
ONE TUFF TWISTER 2023 sorrel stallion (Woody Be Tuff x Twist One Time, by One Time Pepto). Dam LTE $6,450. Dam PE $9,895. Dam’s siblings earned $665,090.
RBR RUMOR HAS IT 2022 palomino mare (One Shiney Metallic x CR Tuff Handle Lena, by Woody Be Tuff). Dam PE $3,229.
RED REDINGTON 2023 red roan stallion (Hashtags x Oh Stylish Lizzy, by Lizzys Gotta Player). Dam LTE $45,706. Dam PE $68,151.
REYZIN CASH ON BELLA 2023 chestnut mare (Reyzin The Cash x Bela Sera, by One Time Pepto). Dam LTE $58,673. Dam PE $27,225. Dam’s siblings earned $652,732.
REYZIN THE STARS 2022 sorrel mare (Reyzin The Cash x Stars Freckled Girl, by Metallic Cat). Dam LTE $66,885. Dam PE $2,297.
SANNREYA 2022 red roan mare (Sannman x DMAC Dr Hip, by Hickorys Indian Pep). 2nd Dam PE $12,015.
2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Sales
ARC Cat
Her Please Lte $127,467
Pe $143,734
Her Yearling Filly by Hashtags Sells!
SHADOW DANCER 2023 sorrel mare (Badboonarising x Shadowcat Hickory, by Cats Merada). Dam LTE $5,833. Dam’s siblings earned $13,914.
SHES BAD N ALL 2023 black mare (Badboonarising x The Last All Star, by Smooth As A Cat). Dam’s siblings earned $16,959.
SHINEY MY BAY 2010 bay mare (Shining Spark x Quixote Lena Peppy, by Paddys Irish Whiskey). ET - Metallic Rebel ‘25. PE $2,302. Siblings earned $452,057.
SHINEY NU LOOKER 2023 sorrel mare (WR This Cats Smart x Annies One Time, by One Time Pepto). Dam LTE $73,800. Dam’s siblings earned $339,775.
SJR COMMANDER MIST 2023 sorrel stallion (SJR Diamond Mist x Shiners Little Oak, by Shining Spark). Dam LTE $6,692. Dam PE $474,369.
SJR MISTS STYLISHREY 2022 bay stallion (SJR Diamond Mist x SJR Stylish Reyata, by Dual Rey). Dam LTE $3,764. Dam PE $2,592. Dam’s siblings earned $132,702.
SJR XQUISITLY MIST 2023 bay mare (SJR Diamond Mist x Xquizit Cat, by High Brow Cat). Dam LTE $13,435. Dam PE $485,272.
Dual Smart Kitty
Lte $317,758; Pe $495,700 NCHA Futurity Open CHAMPION
Yearling ½ brother by Cool N Hot Sells!
SKIP TO MY LU 2023 sorrel stallion (The Animal x Lu Sea Lu, by Smart Mate). Dam LTE $21,279. Dam PE $105,895. Dam’s siblings earned $414,755.
SKOOTOVER 2023 sorrel mare (Scooter Kat x CR Double Tuff, by Woody Be Tuff). Dam LTE $14,745. Dam’s siblings earned $81,159.
SOUND OF MADNESS 2023 bay stallion (Hashtags x Smashing Reys, by Dual Rey). Dam LTE $31,339. Dam’s siblings earned $157,319.
SPARKLET 2022 sorrel mare (Woody Be Tuff x Sparking Metallic, by Metallic Cat). Dam LTE $58,160. Dam’s siblings earned $500,321.
STARTED WITHA WHISPA 2023 bay mare (Hashtags x CR Tuff Digs Lucinda, by Woody Be Tuff). Dam LTE $70,315. Dam PE $72,743. Dam’s siblings earned $620,452.
STEEL THE COOL CAT 2023 red roan mare (Fiddle And Steel x Cool Lil Sister, by Dual Rey). Dam is a money earner. Dam producer of money earner. Dam’s siblings earned $343,655.
STEREYO TYPE 2023 red roan stallion (Hashtags x Flat Baroque, by Peptoboonsmal). Dam LTE $91,905. Dam PE $47,664. Dam’s siblings earned $542,302.
STRESSIN METAL 2023 blue roan stallion (Fiddle And Steel x Reys Stressin Melody, by Reys Dual Badger). Dam LTE $45,860. Dam PE $11,275. Dam’s siblings earned $182,738.
STRESSIN METALLIC 2023 sorrel mare (Metallics MVP x Reys Stressin Melody, by Reys Dual Badger). Dam LTE $45,860. Dam PE $11,275. Dam’s siblings earned $182,738.
SUPER PSYCHEDELIC 2022 chestnut mare (Stevie Rey Von x Supercalafrajalistic, by Abrakadabracre). Dam LTE $68,510. Dam PE $59,166.
TAGGINCATZ 2023 red roan stallion (Hashtags x Cats Vida Moon, by High Brow Cat). Dam money earner.
THE QUEENS ENGLISH 2023 sorrel mare (Smooth Talkin Style x Mia Metallic Queen, by Metallic Cat). Dam LTE $11,373.
THIS CATS DESIREYBLE 2023 sorrel mare (Smooth As A Cat x Desires Rey, by Dual Rey). Dam LTE $33,969. Dam PE $412,672. Dam’s siblings earned $1,860,934.
THIS ONE TIME 2009 chestnut stallion (One Time Pepto x Katie Starlight, by Grays Starlight). LTE $158,969. Sire of earners of $75,647. Siblings earned $369,405.
TIME TO BE WOODY 2023 sorrel stallion (Woody Be Tuff x Annies One Time, by One Time Pepto). Dam LTE $73,800. Dam’s siblings earned $339,775.
TIME TO FIDDLE 2023 red roan stallion (Fiddle And Steel x Annies Time To Shine, by One Time Pepto). Dam’s siblings earned $413,575.
TUFF CRACKIN CHIC 2023 sorrel mare (Woody Be Tuff x Smart Kwackin Boon, by Peptoboonsmal). Dam LTE $2,763. Dam’s siblings earned $832,900.
TUFF LIKE STEVIE 2023 sorrel stallion (Stevie Rey Von x Woodys Tuff Stuff, by Woody Be Tuff). Dam LTE $28,976. Dam’s siblings earned $334,423.
TUFF TO REYPLACE 2023 sorrel mare (Woody Be Tuff x Reyplacement, by Dual Rey). Dam LTE $8,616.
VON CAJUN 2023 sorrel stallion (Stevie Rey Von x Jennys Cajun Belle, by CD Lights). Dam LTE $1,921. Dam’s siblings earned $201,084.
WHIZ CAT 2022 bay stallion (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Carrera Cat, by Metallic Cat). Dam LTE $2,067. Dam PE $30,022. Dam’s siblings earned $102,209.
Selling Horses that go the Distance!
Lte $265,548 Watch for the Complete San Juan Ranch Offering! H ome of
CD Diamond & SJR Diamond Mist NRCHA Open Futurity CHAMPIONS !
* Top Placing CD Diamond OR SJR Diamond Mist foals thru 2028 NRCHA Ft. Worth Futurity Finals receive $25,000 Open/ $10,000 Non-Pro
SJR XQUISITLY MIST 2023 bay mare (SJR Diamond Mist x Xquizit Cat, by High Brow Cat). Dam LTE $13,435. Dam PE $485,272.
SJR COMMANDER MIST 2023 sorrel stallion (SJR Diamond Mist x Shiners Little Oak, by Shining Spark). Dam LTE $6,692. Dam PE $474,369.
a.m.
Time
to Make all Your Plans!
NCHA Futurity 2-Year-Old Sale
2-Year-Olds on Cattle Nominated to 2025 NCHA Futurity
Sales will be Webcast with Online Bidding Available
ATTACKYABADBOON 2023 bay stallion (Badboonarising x The Catattac, by High Brow Cat). Dam PE $651,087. Dam’s siblings earned $432,756.
BLACKK MAMBA 2023 bay roan stallion (Metallic Cat x Blackish, by Hottish). Dam LTE $372,501. Dam PE $5,712.
COUNTIN ON DIXIE 2022 sorrel mare (Im Countin Checks x Desires Dixie Cat, by High Brow Cat). Dam PE $27,094. Dam’s siblings earned $1,894,903.
DONNA PAULSEN 2023 red roan mare (Dual Rey x Cats Peptolena, by High Brow Cat). Dam LTE $138,462. Dam PE $456,191.
DRAPPED IN GUCCI 2023 red roan mare (Cool N Hot x Cats Peptolena, by High Brow Cat). Dam LTE $138,462. Dam PE $456,191.
EIGHTEEN 83 2023 sorrel stallion (Stevie Rey Von x RPL Ich This, by Cat Ichi). Dam LTE $134,983. Dam PE $91,636. Dam’s siblings earned $558,532.
FOUR POCKETS FULL 2023 bay mare (Catolena Cashin In x Rose E, by Thomas E Hughes). Dam LTE $75,559.
HASH ME OUTSIDE 2022 black mare (Hashtags x SDP Kitty Star Cat, by Grays Starlight). Dam PE $387,111.
HIGH STAKES ROLLN 2023 red roan stallion (Hashtags x Post Card From Paris, by Light N Lena). Dam LTE $87,304. Dam PE $116,856. Dam’s siblings earned $441,387.
HOTT 2023 bay stallion (Hottish x Stylin Playgirl, by Docs Stylish Oak). Dam LTE $203,277. Dam PE $641,360.
you don’t Want to Miss!
ICE N CHAINS 2023 red roan stallion (Catolena Cashin In x Melting Snow, by Metallic Cat). Dam LTE $102,106. Dam PE $9,612. Dam’s siblings earned $209,149.
ITZA VIBE 2023 red roan stallion (Hashtags x Cherry Chex Cat, by Cats Merada). Dam LTE $54,296. Dam PE $34,560. Dam’s siblings earned $464,000.
JUST COOL DOWN 2022 red roan stallion (Hashtags x Donas Suen Boon, by Boon Too Suen). Dam LTE $425,911. Dam PE $168,458.
KIMBO SLYCE 2023 bay stallion (Spots Hot x Oak Essence, by Docs Stylish Oak). Dam LTE $2,384. Dam’s siblings earned $483,409. 2nd Dam LTE $316,251.
METAL N STYLE 2023 red roan stallion (Metallic Cat x Stylin Playgirl, by Docs Stylish Oak). Dam LTE $203,277. Dam PE $641,360.
ONE FO THE MONEY 2023 sorrel mare (Reyzin The Cash x Mare E Hughes, by Thomas E Hughes). Dam LTE $66,628. Dam PE $23,500. RED FLAGG 2023 sorrel mare (Woody Be Tuff x Seca Rey Lena, by Dual Rey). Dam LTE $45,742. Dam PE $277,633. STYLIN HOTTISH 2023 sorrel stallion (Hottish x Stylin Playgirl, by Docs Stylish Oak). Dam LTE $203,277. Dam PE $641,360.
STYLIN LIKE STEVIE 2023 blue roan mare (Stevie Rey Von x Stylin Playgirl, by Docs Stylish Oak). Dam LTE $203,277. Dam PE $641,360.
TAGGIN A SOLDIER 2023 bay stallion (Hashtags x Smart Alice Louise, by Rockin W). Dam LTE $47,717. Dam PE $61,767. Dam’s siblings earned $649,337.
THE PROFESSER 2023 red roan stallion (Hashtags x RPL Ich This, by Cat Ichi). Dam LTE $134,983. Dam PE $91,636. Dam’s siblings earned $558,532.
Will Rogers Memorial Center
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Rein / Cow Work: Open Bridle Finals
3 PM Watt Arena Western Bloodstock Sale Preview
5 PM Billy Bobs Texas A Night At The Stockyards - presented by the NRCHA Foundation
FRIDAY – OCTOBER 18
9 AM Justin ARHFA World Championship Intermediate Heading & Heeling Finals 3- and 4-Year-Old Finals
Futurity Heading & Heeling Finals
9 AM Watt Arena Western Bloodstock Sale – 2 YO & Performance Horses Yearlings & Broodmares
2:30 PM Coliseum Opening Ceremonies
Finals Rein Work: Intermediate / Limited Open
Finals Cow Work: Intermediate / Limited Open
SATURDAY – OCTOBER 19
8 AM Justin ARHFA World Championship Non Pro Heading & Heeling – All Goes
9 AM Watt Arena Western Bloodstock Sale – Yearlings & Broodmares
3 PM East Coliseum NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Kick Off Party Parking Lot presented by Top Fuel
4 PM Coliseum
Finals Cow Work: Open East Coliseum Metallic Cat NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® After Party Parking Lot Doors open at 4:30 PM
Finals Rein Work: Open
mins following NPH
BAMACAT
(High Brow Cat - MH San Tules Dually, by San Tule Freckles)
Fee: $2,000 + chute fee
METALLIC REY MINK
(Metallic Cat - Dual Rey Mink, by Dual Rey)
Fee: $2,500 + chute fee
ROCKIN W
(Dual Rey - Boon San Kitty, by High Brow Cat)
Fee: $1,500 + chute fee
BET HESA CAT
(High Brow Cat - Bet Yer Blue Boons, by Freckles Playboy)
Fee: $4,500 + chute fee
METALLIC ROYAL MATE
(Metallic Cat - Royal Red Riponche, by Smart Mate)
Fee: $1,800 + chute fee
SADDLING AT SUNRISE
(WR This Cats Smart - Sunshine Ingredient, by Mr Sun O Lena)
Fee: $2,000 + chute fee
BOON TOO SUEN
(Peptoboonsmal - Meradas Little Sue, by Freckles Merada)
Fee: $3,000 + chute fee
$500 Early Booking & Outcross Consideration
MR PLAYINSTYLISH*
(Playin Stylish - Tari Chick Gay, by Doc Tari)
Fee: $2,000 + chute fee
WALLA WALLA STARBUCK
(Walla Walla Whiz - Silvernbluestarbuck, by Smart Starbuck)
Fee: $1,500 + chute fee
FINALS BOUND
(Gunnatrashya - Wimpys Little Chic, by Wimpys Little Step)
$2,000 + chute fee
ONE SHINEY METALLIC
(Metallic Cat - One Shiney Rey, by Dual Rey)
Fee: $1,350 + chute fee
KREYZY HORSE
(Dual Rey - Shes Twice As Smooth, by Smooth As A Cat)
Fee: $2,000 + chute fee
PEPTOS STYLIN TIME
(One Time Pepto - Stylin Jewel, by Docs Stylish Oak)
$2,000 + chute fee
STALLION
(Metallic Cat - Kings Masterpiece, by Peppy San Badger)
$1,500 + chute
QUAHADI
(Bet Hesa Cat - Ginnin Attraction, by Tanquery Gin)
$2,000 + chute fee
“FOR DOUGIE”
The NRCHA family lost a treasured friend, talented horseman and all-around cowboy this summer.
BY JADE CURRID
Amaster horseman and cowboy to the core, the late Doug Williamson, who died on August 14 at his home in Scottsdale, Arizona, has left an indelible mark on the equine industry, as well as on the lives of those who were privileged to know him.
The 82-year-old NRCHA Hall of Fame inductee and two-time NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion, who bravely battled throat cancer twice, was focused on getting strong enough to get back to the barn and ride at the time of his passing. Williamson lived and breathed for the opportunity to continuously hone his horsemanship skills, as well as better the countless horses he worked with and individuals he mentored.
“I think the most important thing is he loved his job,” said Williamson’s wife, Carol Williamson, about her husband’s consuming passion for his life’s work.
“He loved what he did. We never really vacationed much—a couple of times in the 20 years we were married.”
Carol related that her most cherished memories of Doug were when they were horseback together or at shows.
“I’d say our best times together were really when we were riding together and then oddly at the shows,” she fondly shared. “I mean, the shows are full of stress. You’re trying to be your best, and you’re tired. But I liked going out with him in the middle of the night when he schooled. We had a common goal when we were riding or when we were at shows.”
Williamson, who relished winning with a characteristic grin and a twinkle in his eye, was renowned for being a true competitor in every sense. However, he was just as distinguished for his trademark goodwill toward others and eagerness to contribute to the success of fellow riders and cheer for them during their runs.
“I’ve had people ask me, ‘Why do you help these people? They’re going to start winning,’” Williamson said during an interview in the 2017 documentary “Down the Fence.” “I said I hope they do, because that’s going to make me better. If they beat me, I’m going to be tickled to death, but I’m going to work at it hard enough to where I’ll try to beat them again one day.”
Williamson was born on March 15, 1942, in Vale, Oregon, and was raised on his family ranch. Destined for greatness, he jockeyed a horse behind his father, Sylvan Williamson, in a match race at
age 5; won his first buckle in hackamore reining at age 8; won his first buckle in calf roping at age 13; and secured a job as a cattle foreman at age 17.
At age 19, he piloted one of his all-time favorite horses, Baldy C, to the nation’s high-point working cow horse title, an honor the horse-and-rider pair won again two years later.
Williamson worked on ranches and trained outside horses before rodeoing for a decade and winning top events across the West. In 1978, he moved to Nampa, Idaho, and trained horses in various disciplines, including halter, cow horse and English equitation, developing over 30 American Quarter Horse Association champions.
His move in 1990 to oversee the horse division at the Tejon Ranch in California ignited his illustrious career as an NRCHA professional. It was here where he partnered with an unassuming black yearling named Mr San Olen (Peppy San Badger x San O Lenita x Tenino San), which he piloted to win his first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® in 1992.
Williamson eventually started his own facility in Bakersfield, California, and went on to win his second NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® in 2002 on Doc At Night (Mr. San Olen x Docs Hickory Nut x Doc’s Hickory), a son of Mr San Olen.
Williamson’s extensive reined cow horse résumé included winning the 2007 NRCHA Derby Championship on Docs Soula (Soula Jule Star x Docs Hickory Nut x Doc’s Hickory), owned by D & S Quarter Horses; winning both the 2009 and 2010 NRCHA Hackamore Classic Championships aboard Smart Miss Merada (Leo Merada x Uno Smart Lady x Smart Little Uno), a mare he owned with Carol; and piloting the stallion Hes Wright On (Lenas Wright On x Shesa Lota Nic x Reminic) to a reserve championship at the 2010 World’s Greatest Horseman®, the champion title at the 2010 World’s Richest Stock horse and reserve in the 2012 reserve World’s Richest Stock Horse.
At this summer’s The Run For A Million Cow Horse Challenge, the 15 contestants wore black wild rags while working their cattle as a tribute to Williamson.
CAROLYN SIMANCIK
Doug Williamson captured the heart of everyone he met, was admired for his wisdom and horsemanship and will be forever missed by the NRCHA family.
Explore FORT WORTH
While you’re in town for the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, visit some local attractions.
CHECK OUT THE CULTURAL DISTRICT
You don’t have to stray too far from the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® venue, nestled within Fort Worth’s Cultural District, to strike gold. There is a wealth of dining and entertainment options within a few miles radius. So, rest those cow horses for a while and soak up some Cowtown charm with your family and friends.
Eat, See & Do:
Above:
Themed gardens, like this Japanese Garden, will take your breath away at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. It’s just the place to take a deep breath and relax before putting on your game face and competing.
Opposite page: When you find free time, venture off the show grounds deep into Fort Worth to experience all the town has to offer.
Woodshed Smokehouse: Located two miles from the show grounds and owned by renowned chef Tim Love, Woodshed Smokehouse captures the essence of Texas barbecue through its carefully curated menu selections that will appease a wide range of palates. Enjoy fire-cooked cuisine that tips a hat to both tradition and innovation. Sip on a signature cocktail, margarita or beer while admiring the view of the Trinity River, listening to live music and rehashing the day’s rides.
Rodeo Goat: If you crave large, mouth-watering burgers and appetizers, look no further than the Rodeo Goat. With an atmosphere full of character, as its name implies, Rodeo Goat is known for its creative burger concoctions (grilled peaches, anyone?) and offers a wide selection of menu items that will satisfy the whole crew. Try a signature cocktail such as the “Watermelon Rancher” or a Texas craft beer.
Trinity Trails: Located within a couple of miles of the show grounds and spanning 100-plus miles, Trinity Trails is an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Take in the sights of picturesque scenery surrounding the Trinity River as you walk to various attractions and restaurants located along the trails. You can rent a bicycle at the trailheads or ride your horse throughout the trail system. Recommended trailheads to park horse trailers include Hog Sett Trailhead, Riverside Trailhead South, Meandering Road Trailhead and White Settlement Trailhead.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden: Touring the oldest botanic garden in Texas, located less than a mile from the show grounds, is a bucket-list item. Established in 1934, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden features magnificent theme gardens, including the internationally revered Japanese Garden, the European-inspired Rose Garden, The Adelaide Polk Fuller Garden and the Victor and Cleyone Tinsely Garden. A true Fort Worth gem, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden offers community education programs and conducts international research through the Botanical Research Institute of Texas. Purchase tickets online at fwbg.org.
Fort Worth Zoo: Located less than a mile from the show grounds, the oldest continuous zoo site in Texas is a haven for animal lovers and the perfect spot for a fun family outing. A must-see attraction in the area
with an animal collection total of 542 species, the Fort Worth Zoo has the utmost distinctions of being ranked as the No. 5 zoo in the nation by USA Travel Guide, the No. 1 attraction in the DFW Metroplex by Zagat survey and a top-10 zoo or aquarium by FamilyFun magazine. Purchase tickets online at fortworthzoo.org.
Museums: Five museums are located within walking distance of the show grounds, including the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. Learn about remarkable women who helped shape the American West, tour engaging exhibits that make learning a fun experience for those of all ages, and view internationally renowned art and architecture at these venues.
HEAD TO THE STOCKYARDS
The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District preserves Fort Worth’s rich legacy as “Where the West Begins.” The original red brick road, still intact over a century later, reminds visitors of a time when Cowtown was a hub for shipping livestock. The famous horse and mule barns built in 1912 still stand and are reminders of how the Stockyards served as a mecca for the country’s horse and mule market during World War I.
Today, the Stockyards still bustle with daily activity, welcoming visitors worldwide to celebrate Western heritage and kick up their heels. Check out highly iconic attractions such as twice-daily cattle drives, Mule Alley, Cowtown Coliseum, Billy Bob’s Texas, M.L. Leddy’s Boots & Saddlery and NRCHA sponsor partner Kimes Ranch. These hotspots represent only a fraction of why the Stockyards continue to draw in crowds, so you might make a couple of trips to explore the area thoroughly.
Eat, See & Do:
Hotel Drover: A Mule Alley masterpiece, Hotel Drover pays homage to those legendary cowhands who bravely endured the harsh realities of driving cattle across the frontier and propelled Cowtown’s status as a reigning cattle market. Book one of the 200 Westernthemed, luxe rooms in the award-winning Autograph Collection hotel by Marriott, or drop in for a spell and soak up all it offers. Venture into one of Hotel Drover’s lobby boutiques, including Lucchese Custom Collection and WIDE BRIM by Flea Style, or delight in an
eloquent meal featuring Texas and ranch fare and Southern comfort foods, along with a spirited drink at 97 West Kitchen & Bar. A visit would not be complete without moseying outside to the Veranda Bar and The Backyard at Hotel Drover overlooking Marine Creek.
PH Barn Door: While in Mule Alley, venture into the official store of the American Paint Horse Association, where you’re guaranteed to find gifts for all your favorite cowgirls, cowboys and cowkids or a treat for yourself. PH Barn Door takes pride in offering the finest Western wear, gear and products that are as much of an original as the American Paint Horse.
Cowtown Coliseum: With celebrated roots that trace back to hosting the inaugural indoor rodeo in 1919, Cowtown Coliseum is a crucial stop on any Texas trip itinerary for premier Western entertainment. The historic venue hosts four year-round Western shows weekly and has the utmost distinctions of being selected for the DFW 2024 Favorites List, winning Gold for Best Annual Sports Event and Bronze for Best Annual Event/Festival. View a complete event lineup and purchase tickets at cowtowncoliseum.com.
Above: Find gifts and accessories that perfectly suit your style at the PH Barn Door store, located in Mule Alley in the Stockyards.
Whether you treat yourself to a night’s stay or a cold glass of sweet tea in the lobby, the Hotel Drover is a can’t-miss stop on the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards.
H3 Ranch: Tired, thirsty and hungry after a day of working and showing cow horses? Look no further than Hunter Brothers’ H3 Ranch, named as a top DFW steakhouse. This stockyards staple will embrace you with its downhome atmosphere and comfort you with a hearty meal. Try a wood-fired steak and save room for homemade peach cobbler.
Fenoglio Boot Company: Are you in the market for a new pair of boots? Custom order a pair or select the style that best suits you at the exclusive Fenoglio Boot Co. Stockyards location. Adhering to its time-honored motto: “There’s Nothing Finer Than Fenoglio,” Fenoglio Boot Co. uplifts its rich Texas heritage, incorporating carefully curated traditional all-leather construction and timeless styles that originated in Nocona in the early 1900s.
DOWNTOWN DESTINATIONS:
Celebrate a successful day in the show pen with an epic excursion to downtown Fort Worth and Sundance Square.
Eat, See & Do:
Sundance Square: Select your desired form of fun from abounding dining, entertainment, shopping and art venue options in vibrant Sundance Square. Capture a memorable photo with the life-sized glittering, disco cowboy hat in the world-renowned Sundance Square Plaza, known as “the Living Room of Fort Worth.” Complement your Western experience by dining at Reata Restaurant & Rooftop Bar and view permanent and special exhibitions of paintings by famed Western artists Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell at the Sid Richardson Museum.
Whiskey Ranch: Enjoy an immersive experience at the largest whiskey distillery west of the Mississippi. While touring the second home to TX Whiskey and TX Straight Bourbon, enjoy visiting the Still House, Bottling House, Oak Room, TX Tavern and Ranch Store.
Right: Spend part of your day touring the Whiskey Ranch, where you’ll see the Still House, Bottling House, Oak Room, TX Tavern and Ranch Store.
COURTESY OF WHISKEY RANCH
DOLLAR OLLAR
Stars Align When the
Cow horse took center stage for one night of The Run For A Million in Las Vegas, Nevada, during the Open and Youth Cow Horse Challenges.
By JENNIFER PAULSON
CAROLYN SIMANCIK
For the third year, one of the Western performance world’s highest-profile events again hosted NRCHA-sanctioned Open and Youth Cow Horse challenges. The Open riders claimed their spots on the 15-rider roster at three different events leading up to the 2024 Run For A Million. Many of those riders will vie for NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® titles in Fort Worth this month.
Open Cow Horse Challenge
When Kyle Trahern bought A Starlights Magnum (Magnum With A Dream x Shiny Starlight x Grays Starlight) as a 4-year-old, he expected to have a good horse to ride on his ranch, at ranch rodeos and at smaller cow horse events. Now 7 years old, the Quarter Horse has always been a barn favorite for his ease of riding for anyone in the saddle and his kind demeanor, but his true talent hadn’t been uncovered. As horses can do, A Starlights Magnum came on strong later in his training, eventually winning the Open Two Rein world title at the 2024 NRCHA Celebration of Champions.
Photos by
“When we bought him, we never thought he’d show at this level,” Trahern shared. “We knew he was nice and we’d show him at some point.”
Along with a few other top placings as a partner with Trahern, that win set Trahern and A Starlights Magnum on a trajectory with unstoppable momentum. Qualifying for The Run For A Million in the final chance to do so at the MARS EQUESTRIAN™ Hackamore Classic was just the start to showing the world what A Starlights Magnum is capable of.
“By the time we got qualified, I knew he was my horse for this event,” Trahern said. “He’d already had some success, and I was confident in him.”
Trahern and his mount kicked off their run in Las Vegas with a whopping 227 in the reined work, which took place the previous day.
“He’s always been good in the reining,” Trahern said. “He’s easy to show. But, coming out here, I was
a little worried. We’ve shown in Vegas before, but he’s not always been crazy about the ground. It tends to be fast, which can bother a big stopper, so I had that on my mind.”
But Trahern leaned on his experience with the horse, knowing that he continues to get better in that phase.
“He was a little worried at first, but then he got his confidence,” Trahern stated. “I didn’t safety-up at all in that run. I knew it was a good run—we’ve been a 223 and a 225 in the reining before. I didn’t know if we were quite there, but I knew it was above a 220. We slid so far; he was dragging his tail off!”
Trahern’s hunch was correct. The pair earned a 227.5, topping the field by 2.5 points.
By the time the Friday-night fence work came around, the South Point Arena was electric. Trahern and A Starlights Magnum could feel the energy when they entered the pen and called for their cow.
Cow Horse’s Stars in Vegas
The spotlight shone on 15 NRCHA Professionals at The Run For A Million, some regular champions, some underdogs, all horsemen. Find complete results at therunfora million.com.
Kyle Trahern
Erin Taormino
“When they kicked out my cow, she acted a little wild,” he said. “I stayed back and let her look around at what was happening. When I approached her, it was in a way not to scare her or make her mad. She had a lot of feel, so I didn’t box her long; we felt good, and we needed to go! She ran straight and hard. She stayed on the fence after her first turn, and then we got that next turn. Circling up, it felt like we were going 100 miles per hour. I did get a little greedy and almost let her get back to the fence, but she let me slip between and switch sides to finish our circles. The crowd was so loud, and it was so exciting!”
The run earned a 224.5, for a total of 452, claiming the title and $50,000 of the $200,000 prize. They topped reserve champions Erin Taormino and Hazardouz Material (Metallic Cat x Scooters Daisy Dukes x Dual Smart Rey), owned by Linda Mars, by just one point. Following their big win in Las Vegas, Trahern planned to give A Starlights Magnum a break, focusing next on the World’s Greatest Horseman® competition in 2025.
Sarah Dawson
Abbie Phillps
Shane Steffen
Gusti Buerger
Boyd Rice
Corey Cushing
Kyle Noyce
Shadd Parkinson
Jake Telford
Matt Koch
Kelby Phillips
Justin Wright
Clay Volmer
Left: Erin Toarmino and Harzardouz Material, owned by Linda Mars, claimed the reserve champion title and the earnings pushed Taormino over one million dollars in lifetime earnings.
Far left: Kyle Trahern and his own horse A Starlights Magnum captured the hearts of the crowd and the Run For A Million Cow Horse Challenge, pocketing $50,000 for the win.
Youth Cow Horse Challenge
Just days after claiming the Youth Cow Horse Challenge title at The Run For A Million, William Akin was settling into his first year at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. But the joy of a big win still had the young horseman on Cloud Nine.
Akin claimed the title aboard SJR Starlit Rey (Dual Rey x A Starlit Diamond x CD Lights), his partner since the horse was 3 and Akin was just 13.
“Being 13 and buying a Dual Rey might not seem like the best fit, but that horse inspired me to become a true horseman,” Akin recalled. “He made me passionate about all of it. His whole 4-year-old year, I had him running off, we couldn’t change leads, we were all kinds of fouled up. But he’s a very gracious and forgiving horse. He let me ruin him and fix him multiple times. Most horses would get offended by that, but he let me learn from my mistakes without ruining our future.”
The partnership they built over those years picked up steam for their record in 2023 and this year. Akin and SJR Starlit Rey won the Non Pro Two Rein at the Celebration of Champions in 2023. They returned to that event to win the Non Pro Bridle and qualify for the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman® finals, falling just short of claiming that title. After some time off and a couple of schooling sessions, Akin knew his horse was ready.
“My reined work felt good,” he said. “I tried to push in the circles and show that I wanted to get marked. He came back to me really good. We’d never been on ground that fast. My first stop was good, and my next two were OK. Overall, it seemed very solid to me. But they announced my score would get a review. I had—and still have—no clue what it was for, but it gave me so much anxiety.”
After the drag, Akin and his horse received a score of 217, tying for second going into the fence work.
“I made a few mistakes at the World’s Greatest Youth Horseman®,” he said. “In the first turn, I remember thinking about the crowd and just blanking out and listening to the noise. I knew I was in a position to win, and I needed to stay focused and work my cow. I had to do my job. I had some nerves, but I think it was just the right amount because I have so much confidence in my horse. After my run, win or lose, I pointed up to God and thanked him for His plan.”
The pair was a whopping 225 on their cow, totaling 442 points and claiming the title by seven points ahead of Tylie Norcutt and Soulas Hickory Star (Soula Jule Star x Turn Liz Loose x Docs Hickory).
Above: Sarah Dawson and Smart Chic And Tari, owned by Aaron Ranch, placed third and earned the AQHA Fan Favorite award.
Left: William Akin and SJR Starlit Rey topped the Youth Cow Horse Challenge by seven points to claim the title.
Adequan® i.m. (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) is recommended for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses. WARNING: Not for use in humans. CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a of a licensed veterinarian.
BRIEF SUMMARY: Prior to use please consult the product insert, a summary of which follows: CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. INDICATIONS: Adequan® i.m. is recommended for the intramuscular treatment of non-infectious degenerative and/or traumatic joint dysfunction and associated lameness of the carpal and hock joints in horses. CONTRAINDICATIONS: There are no known contraindications to the use of intramuscular Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan. WARNINGS: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption. Not for use in humans. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. PRECAUTIONS: The safe use of Adequan® i.m. in horses used for breeding purposes, during pregnancy, or in lactating mares has not been evaluated. For customer care, or to obtain product information, visit www.adequan.com. To report an adverse event please contact American Regent, Inc. at 1-888-354-4857 or email pv@americanregent.com.
1. Kim DY, Taylor HW, Moore RM, Paulsen DB, Cho DY. Articular chondrocyte apoptosis in equine osteoarthritis. The Veterinary Journal 2003; 166: 52-57. 2. Burba DJ, Collier MA, DeBault LE, Hanson-Painton O, Thompson HC, Holder CL: In vivo kinetic study on uptake and distribution of intramuscular tritium-labeled polysulfated glycosaminoglycan in equine body fluid compartments and articular cartilage in an osteochondral defect model. J Equine Vet Sci 1993; 13: 696-703.
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DON’T MISS THIS!
The 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® offers fun for everyone.
The NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® draws spectators and exhibitors from across the United States and around the world, and while the brightest spotlight shines on the 3-year-old horses shown by open and non pro exhibitors, the action outside those events shouldn’t be missed. Here’s a rundown of all the fun activities you and your family can enjoy. Please note that all dates and times are subject to change. Please check the most recent official schedule for finalized dates and times.
EVENT: COWBOY CLASS
About the Event: In 2022, the Cowboy Class became an official, sanctioned NRCHA event. Its popularity has grown in entries and attendance at special Cowboy Clinics offered by NRCHA. This year, the Cowboy Class is a recognized class, and local affiliates and show producers may host these classes at their approved NRCHA events. Created to encourage working cowboys and cowgirls to join the sport of reined cow horse, the Cowboy Class consists of three parts: reined work, cow work and roping or steer stopping. Ranch horses typically know how to work a cow and can execute the maneuvers in a reining pattern, so the class is an opportunity for riders to refine their skills, bring their horses to town and compete for NRCHA points and money. It’s recognized as a sanctioned Category 1 special event, similar to the all-around and spectacular classes. Eligibility for this class will be limited to individuals working on ranching and livestock operations who’ve earned less than $15,000 in NRCHA open and non pro monies outside of the Cowboy Class.
WHEN: October 9 in the John Justin Arena. MORE INFO: To learn more , visit nrcha.com/ programs/cowboy-class, or stop by the show office.
Metallic Big Swing and Orren Koontz topped the Cowboy Class at the 2023 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® with a 434 composite.
EVENT: RODEAR COW DOGS
About the Event: A Rodear was first held at the Futurity in 2017. Since then, the cattle dogs, horses and handlers have amazed crowds competing at the event. In 2022’s event, from the last draw in the open, 6-year-old Border Collie “Gus” and handler James Butler of Center, Texas, navigated to a perfect score of 135 in 5 minutes, 28 seconds. Along with the bragging rights came a check for $10,000.
This modern cow-dog competition showcases a horseback handler and dog working together in a quiet and controlled manner to maneuver cattle. It’s a point-based and timed event, with emphasis placed on the handler’s stockmanship as he or she instructs the dog in moving the cattle through a series of obstacles.
Throughout the calendar year, dogs and their handlers compete across the country to achieve a position in the top 20 rankings in three divisions: Open, Non Pro and Green Dog. The top 20 in each division arrive in Fort Worth in October to compete in the semi-final rounds, which determine the top five in the three divisions. These 15 dogs will then compete at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® for more than $50,000 in cash awards, plus prizes.
WHEN: October 11 in the John Justin Arena.
MORE INFO: For more on Rodear America Cow Dog Association and the National Finals Rodear, visit rodearamerica.com.
EVENT: ROPE HORSE FUTURITY
ABOUT THE EVENT: The American Rope Horse Futurity Association World Championships started in 2017 with two days and $100,000 added money. It showcased the talents of over 220 entries in the heading and heeling and paying out over $290,000. With riders, breeders, owners and of course the rope horse being able to come to a national stage, the 2023 World Championships is gearing up to be the best ever.
Open and non pro ropers bring their best young heading and heeling horses to take their chances at substantial payouts and coveted titles. The four-day event offers eight classes, the Top-Gun Stallion Incentive and side pot, the Royal Crown Stallion Incentive and side pot, the APHA Chrome Cash side pot, a Finals dedicated to the talents of the 3- and 4-year-old rope horses, Finals for the Intermediate Heading and Heeling and $110,000 added money to be paid out for the coveted titles.
WHEN: October 16–19, 2024 at the Will Rogers Coliseum. MORE INFO: Learn more at americanropehorse.com.
Open champions Tommy Blessing and Henry guide their cattle through a serpentine of barrels on the course.
DON’T MISS THIS!
EVENT: TRADE SHOW
ABOUT THE EVENT: The NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® trade show is the go-to place to get everything you need for your cow horses, your Western home and lifestyle. It is a tribute to traditional gear makers, craftsmen and artists who value tradition and legacy on par with the cow horse community.
Shop for top-of-the-line custom tack; gear essentials; belts, boots, and apparel; artwork and home goods; and science-backed supplements.
WHEN: Runs the duration of the show, opening daily at 9 a.m.
MORE INFO: All vendors are set up in Brown Lupton North and South, as well as in the John Justin Arena. For complete list of vendors, visit nrcha.com/events/snaffle-bit-futurity.
The buckaroo class lets budding horsemen and horsewomen show off their skills in a simple reining pattern and 30 seconds working the flag.
Don’t miss the chance to shop for unique gifts—and items for yourself—at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Trade Show.
EVENT: BUCKAROO CLASS
About the Event: NRCHYA supports inclusivity of all levels of riders, and the Buckaroo Class held during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® celebrates that attitude. Open to any level of rider under age 18, youth riders complete a simple reining pattern followed by 30 seconds on the flag. It demonstrates the entry-level skills necessary to compete in reined cow horse events as they grow as riders and young horsemen and horsewomen. Riders choose from a few levels representing their skills, and depending on their level, they may have help from an adult in the arena.
WHEN: October 10 following the Non Pro Boxing in the John Justin Arena.
MORE INFO: Visit the show office to sign up, or learn more about NRCHYA at nrcha.com/national-reined-cow-horse-youth-association.
Get in the spirit of Halloween season with the leadline costume class held during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, featuring young riders.
EVENT: LEADLINE COSTUME CLASS
About the Event: Leadline classes are always fun to catch, but add in costumes for horses and riders, and you have a can’t-miss event. Join the fun to cheer on young riders, or plan to help your own tiny horseman costume-up and take a spin in the arena. After showing off their costumes, they might be asked a question by the judge to test their horsemanship.
WHEN: October 9 following the Open herd work in the Coliseum.
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GUIDE TO THE ACTION
What are the judges looking for in the next NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion? Here is a breakdown of the three events.
It’s show time! Nowhere in the world of equestrian sport will you find more spine-tingling action than in the reined cow horse arena. The finely tuned equine athletes will dazzle you with their athleticism, cow sense, courage and finesse.
The 3-year-old horses in the National Reined Cow Horse Association NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® are judged in herd work, reined work and cow work. Contestants in the ancillary horse show classes—hackamore, two rein and bridle—are judged in reined work and cow work only.
HERD WORK
In this event, one horse-and-rider pair enters a group of cattle, separates a single cow, and then prevents it from returning to the herd. The horse should step into the herd willingly and quietly, sorting out one cow without disturbing the rest. There is a 2½-minute time limit for each run, and two or three cattle are worked during that time.
Judges are impressed by horses that display exceptional courage while holding a difficult cow, work on a loose rein with a bright, alert expression, maintain proper position on the cow and spend the majority of the time limit holding a cow out front.
Judges also will deduct for losing a cow, failure to control the cow, insufficient working time, low degree of difficulty or lack of eye appeal.
REINED WORK
The reined work is the only phase of cow horse competition that does not involve a cow. Sometimes described as the equestrian equivalent of figure skating, horse and rider perform a pattern with specific maneuvers: loping fast and slow circles, executing flying lead changes, spinning in each direction, sliding stops and backing up. In the reined work, judges look for a horse that is willingly guided with little or
no apparent resistance. Points are deducted for disobedience or deviation from the pattern, while credit is earned if the maneuvers are performed with extra speed and finesse in a manner that is pleasing to watch.
COW WORK
The cow work, also called the fence work, is the final, adrenaline-fueled stage of reined cow horse competition. Fortunes can rise and fall in a split second during this fast-paced event, and the outcome of the NRCHA
The fence work is the final phase of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and can make or break a pair’s chances at a big win.
Snaffle Bit Futurity® is not certain until the fence work is complete. The key to a good score is maintaining control of the cow at all times.
After horse and rider enter the arena, a single cow is pushed through the gate at the opposite end. The horse must first “box” the cow, or hold it at the end of the arena, maintaining control and staying in proper working position.
Next, when the rider decides the time is right, he allows the cow to run down the long side of the arena and turns it on the wall. This first turn must take place after the center marker, but before the first penalty marker near the corner. Horse and rider must turn the cow a second time in the other direction, and may make additional turns on the fence before taking the cow into the open arena and maneuvering it in a complete circle each way.
The most controlled cow work, with the highest degree of difficulty and the best form, scores the highest.
SCORING
Five judges are scoring the action at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. They all have the NRCHA’s highest 3A judge’s credential. The Judges’ Monitors for the
2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® are Bill Enk (NRCHA Director of Judges) and Bobby Lewis. Officials for the show include Chris Benedict, Tom Buckingham, Darren Miller, Dale Clearwater, Bobby Ingersol, Smoky Pritchett, Ian Chisholm, Frank Craighead, Bobby Hunt and John Pipkin.
In the five-judge system, the high and low scores are thrown out, and the remaining three scores are added up to achieve the final score. For example, if a horse receives a score of 219, it averaged a 73 from each judge.
All events are scored using a plus and minus system for each maneuver. If a rider incurs penalty points, they are deducted from the overall score.
A score of 70 is considered average. Each contestant begins with a 70 as soon as they enter the arena. Each maneuver receives a plus, a zero or a minus from the judge. A plus indicates an above-average performance, zero means it was done correctly, and minus means a below-average maneuver.
Anything above 70 means horse and rider earned credit during the run, while a score below 70 means something went wrong; either the maneuver quality was poor or penalties were assessed.
The herd work showcases a horse’s ability to cut two to three cows from the herd, one at a time, and work them away from the herd.
Below:
The reined work demonstrates a horse’s willingness to be guided through a litany of maneuvers in a prescribed pattern.
Bottom left:
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AGES & STAGES:
THE EVOLUTION OF A REINED COW HORSE
The training of a reined cow horse is a methodical and meticulous process, taking years to reach the end result prized by the vaqueros— the finished bridle horse.
Reined cow horses are first eligible to compete in snaffle bit futurities as 3-year-olds. For many successful show horses, this is only the beginning. Beyond the futurities, three more show divisions await. The training process is a progression, with each stage building upon the one before it. The various phases of training beyond the snaffle bit are showcased here in Fort Worth, Texas, with competitive divisions for cow horses ages 4 and up.
THE HACKAMORE YEARS
When young cow horses are 4- and 5-year-olds, they become eligible for the hackamore class. To showcase this phase, NRCHA hosts the MARS EQUESTRIAN™ Hackamore Classic in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in July. In Fort Worth during the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, hackamore-aged horses will compete in horse show classes consisting of a reined work pattern immediately followed by fence work.
The hackamore is the traditional bitless head gear. It consists of a bosal, a braided noseband usually made of rawhide or leather, and a closed rein called a mecate. The customary mecate material is horsehair, but mohair or synthetics are also common and legal in the show pen.
The NRCHA Hackamore Classic derby, held in Tulsa, Oklahoma, offers classes for Open, Intermediate Open, Limited Open, Level 1 Open and Open Novice Horse riders. Non pro riders may compete in the Non Pro, Intermediate Non Pro and Limited Non Pro or Level 1 Non Pro classes. Eligibility is based on rider earnings.
There is also a Non Pro Boxing class (herd/rein/boxing) for non pro riders who do not go down the fence.
THE TWO REIN
When reined cow horses turn 6, they are no longer eligible to be shown two-handed. At this age, they begin the transition to bridle horse status via the two rein, when a bridle is added to the hackamore.
The two rein represents a transition in a cow horse’s training. It combines the bosalito, which represents the hackamore, and introduces a shanked bit.
Two rein horses are shown one-handed in a bit with shanks, a non-jointed mouthpiece, a port, and a roller, or “cricket.” Under the bridle, horses wear a second headstall with a pencil-thin bosalito, a narrower version of the bosal with a skinny mecate rein. The rider holds two sets of reins: the closed rawhide romal, which is attached to the bridle bit, and the thin mecate rein, which connects to the bosalito. Riders may guide the horse with both sets of reins and are permitted to use one or more fingers between the reins to direct the horse.
Horses may show only one season in the two rein division. During this year, they may also enter the bridle classes. In the two rein classes, riders first perform a rein work pattern and then work a cow down the fence. You’ll be able to watch the open and non pro two rein horses in action here in Fort Worth.
THE BRIDLE
A finished bridle horse is considered the most elite competitor in the reined cow horse world. If they started their show career as a 3-year-old, and progressed continuously through the stages of training and competition, these bridle horses are now highly
experienced 7-year-olds and older, ready to perform at the highest level. Bridle horses are shown in a shanked, ported bit with a cricket, in the traditional closed romal reins with the popper attached. The rider’s hand must be closed on the reins with no fingers between at any time.
At the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, bridle horses will compete in the Open, Intermediate Open, Limited Open, Non Pro, Intermediate Non Pro and Limited Non Pro Bridle class, depending on the rider’s eligibility. They will be judged on rein work and fence work only.
An increasingly popular division at NRCHA premier events is the Bridle Spectacular. Like the futurities and derbies, Bridle Spectacular horses compete in herd work, reined work and fence work or boxing for Boxing division riders—often for very rich purses.
Another avenue for bridle horses is the four-event, or all-around competition, where steer-stopping is added to the herd/rein/fence lineup. The signature event of this kind is the NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman®, which is part of the annual NRCHA Celebration of Champions, held next February in Fort Worth, Texas.
From the hackamore (left) to the bridle, cow horses go through traditional phases and stages of training to become excellent mounts.
STEADFAST SUPPORT
Generous sponsors offer NRCHA competitors and horse owners ample opportunity to cash in on reined cow horses.
Long-standing supporters benefit the NRCHA in many ways, including providing prize money at events like the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, presented by one such sponsor, Metallic Cat. New opportunities to take advantage of the generous support provided are exemplified in the Open and Non Pro divisions, and the Owners Incentive Fund supporters continue providing a base to build prize funds for competitors.
SOLID CONNECTIONS
For a corporation to continue to provide financial support for an equine event means that the industry is on the right track, and the reined cow horse industry is definitely headed in the right direction. Metallic Cat continues as the presenting sponsor of the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® as do CINCH and Holy Cow Performance Horses, both of which renewed their support of the event for the 11th year.
The first stallion to have offspring surpass $7 million in earnings, Metallic Cat continues to support the reined cow horse industry through Futurity title sponsorship. In 2018, Metallic Cat joined the NRCHA Million Dollar Sire club, and less than two years later, surpassed the $3 million dollar threshold and a year ago became the NRCHA All-Time Leading Sire! Owned by Bobby Patton’s
Rocking P Ranch in Weatherford, Texas, the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® is excited to have Metallic Cat as the presenting sponsor of the event as well as the draw and after parties. Visit metalliccat. com for information about the stallion.
NRCHA also appreciates the ongoing support Oswood Stallion Station demonstrates for our non pro divisions. With Oswoods’ sponsorship, we now guarantee a $50,000 payout for the Non Pro NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. Our non pros are an undeniably important part of our organization, and we’re grateful to have Oswood Stallion Station’s recognition of that.
Longtime sponsor CINCH provides the Intermediate Open Champion with a hefty win check. The Western wear company, based in Denver, Colorado, supports the equine industry by creating quality jeans, shirts and casual wear that stands up to the horse show lifestyle. The CINCH Intermediate Open division helps up-and-coming reined cow horse trainers continue to pursue their careers. Visit cinchjeans.com for information about the company’s quality guarantee and a directory of retailers.
In 2024, Holy Cow Performance Horses’ longtime support of reined cow horse events continues to shine a spotlight on the supreme training of reined cow horses—bridle horses. The sponsorship gives $25,000 added to each of the Open Bridle Spectaculars held at the Teton Ridge Stallion Stakes, Kimes Ranch
Western Derby and MARS EQUESTRIAN™ Hackamore Classic and an additional $25,000 added to the Open Bridle held at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. Nancy Crawford, owner of Holy Cow Performance Horses, has facilities in Santa Ynez, California, and Weatherford, Texas, and has horses showing in reined cow horse and cutting events. At the 2021 Western Derby, Crawford also provided the added money in the first CD Survivor Bridle Horse Super Spectacular, adding roping to the CD Survivor Memorial Bridle Spectacular, and the event continued through 2024. Another way Holy Cow Performance Horses honors the bridle horse! Visit holycowperformancehorses.com to see more on this sponsor.
To see all of NRCHA corporate and breeder sponsors, visit nrcha.com.
OWNER OPPORTUNITY
Owners wishing to support the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® purse with monetary donation can become part of the Owners Incentive Fund.
The Owners Incentive Fund was founded in 2017, and 100 percent of the funds raised goes directly to the payout. A total of
$15,000 in support, or $5,000 a year for three years, these supporters receive recognition in the NRCHA’s Reined Cow Horse News as well as tickets to the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® events, in addition to other displays recognizing support.
To inquire about joining the supporters for the Futurity purse through the Owners Incentive Fund, contact the NRCHA office.
HATS OFF TO GELDINGS
In 2024, the Gelding Incentive returns! In 2021, the incentive kicked off with more than 40 supporters donating to the incentive that is paid out to geldings showing under both non pro and open exhibitors at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. The gelding must be registered with its breed association as a gelding in order to qualify.
To enter the Open division at the Futurity, a $400 entry fee is required and 90 percent goes to the jackpot. The purse will increase based on entries in the division. Non Pro riders pay a $200 entry fee with 90 percent going to the jackpot. The payout is made according to NRCHA rule 10.5.2.
2024 NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY ® OWNERS INCENTIVE FUND
Thank you to these supporters contributing to the added money purse for the 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®!
BMW Quarter Horses
Larry & Kathy Barker
Stuart Ranch
Carol Rose/Shining Spark
Bet Hesa Cat Syndicate
Valley Equine Reproduction
Hat 6 Ranch
Ann Matthews
Honeysuckle Rose Boutique
Woodglen Investments
Red Arrow Ranch LLC
Steve and Lori Roseberry
War Ponies
Elite Paint Cowhorses
Spahn Law Firm PLLC
Moncrief Quarter Horses/ Kit and Charlie Moncrief
Rocking Nine Four Ranch
Shawn Hays
Triple D Ranches
BET HESA CAT SPARKING TRAIN X 6 PANEL N/N
$298,000+ LTE
BREEDING FEE - $2,500 + CHUTE FEE STANDING AT OSWOOD STALLION STATION OWNED BY: K & L PHILLIPS - TRAINED BY: CLAYTON EDSALL
NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® SALES
Don’t miss the annual Western Bloodstock sales held during the show in Fort Worth, Texas.
///// uNPReCeDeNteD 2024 SAleS ReSultS
Overall Average: $32,855
Top-10 Average: $121,000
Top-20 Average: $104,950
Top-100 Average: $49,135
12 Sold for $100,000+
The 2024 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Sales, produced by Western Bloodstock, promise bidders the chance to purchase the industry’s top prospects, proven performance horses, and broodmares.
Buyers from this sale have their eyes on the future with the Western Bloodstock NRCHA Sale Incentive Program, which started paying out in 2019. Horses purchased at previous years’ sales shown in the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® are eligible for a notable incentive purse of more than $88,000! For those who dream of buying the perfect prospect for the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, the Western Bloodstock sales held during the Futurity can provide an easy way to view hundreds of quality horses under one roof.
Here are a few tips for navigating the sales and finding the perfect horse to take home from Fort Worth.
///// tHe Pl ACe tO Buy CHAMPiONS
Three NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champions are Western Bloodstock Sales graduates.
Zak 34
Here Comes The Boon ReysmHigh
making her the sale’s overall high seller.
Black Magic Woman, a 2022 mare consigned by Southern Ranches (agent Solo Select Horses), brought $180,000,
KNOW THE BENEFITS
s All weanlings, yearlings and 2-year-olds sold at the Western Bloodstock NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Sales are eligible to participate in the NRCHA Sale Incentive Program, which pays out the four highest-advancing eligible foals in the Open and Non Pro NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® classes.
s Every consigned horse must have recent radiographs on file in advance of the sale, and all prospects must have the same views. Requiring X-rays gives prospective buyers peace of mind, giving them the information they need to make well-rounded decisions when purchasing.
s It’s a safe way for new owners to source their investments.
SET YOUR BUDGET
s Well before the sale, figure out how much you can spend.
s Set an acceptable range to allow yourself some wiggle room when you find “the one.”
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
s Peruse the sales catalog beforehand. Once you’ve determined which horses seem like they could fit your program, look up photos and videos, check how the horse is bred, and find out who owns and trains it.
s If you like what you see, make an appointment to see the horse or arrange a conversation with its owner or trainer.
s If you don’t feel confident in your ability to evaluate a horse on your own or can’t travel to view the horse in person, ask your trainer or a trusted, educated horse friend to help you.
s If you can’t meet them in person beforehand, horses can be seen in their stalls prior to the sale or during the Western Bloodstock Sale Preview.
s View the complete sale offering, with pictures, videos and complete black-type pedigrees, plus familiarize yourself with the terms of the sale on the Western Bloodstock app or at westernbloodstock.com, where you’ll also find all the online bidding details.
The 2024 2-year-old sale preview is on October 17, 2024, at 3 p.m. in the Watt Arena. The sale continues on October 18 and 19, with sessions beginning at 9 a.m. in the same place.
PAST NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® CHAMPIONS
NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champions
Year Horse Sex Pedigree
1970 Wrong Key M Salero Bar x Diana Morelock x Del Rio Darkey
1970 Leocita Chex M King Fritz x Honey’s Best x Leo
1971 Royal Cutter G Cutter Bill x Royal Ida Mae x Royal King
1972 Sugarnic M Sugar Vandy x Fillinic x Arizona Junie
1973 Wrangler Chex G King Fritz x Wilma Ray x Tough Company
1974 Big M Nu King G King Fritz x Honey’s Best x Leo
1975 Hankey Pankey M Hoo Doo Rocket x Coaster’s Susan x Coaster
1976 Kit’s Smoke M Mr. Gunsmoke x Mac’s Sujo x Fourble Joe
1977 Sugaree M Sugar Vandy x Goldie Agar
1978 Doc N Missy M Doc Bar x Missy’s Hankie x Tonto Bars Hank
1979 Aledo Bay M Bueno Chex x Frando Bars x Aledo Bar
1980 Docs Baroque G Doc’s Oak x Brown Lady Bars x Sugar Bar Flit
1981 Sugar Remedy M Doc’s Remedy x Sugarnic x Sugar Vandy
Rider Owner
Les Vogt Fred Mungia
Bobby Ingersoll Strain Ranches
Ken Sutton Ken Sutton
Greg Ward Greg Ward
Les Vogt Nina Rose
Duane Pettibone Pat Risley
Bobby Ingersoll Strain Ranches
Benny Guitron Bert Crane
Bill Wildes Bill Wildes
Bobby Ingersoll Oxbow Ranch
Billy Arthur Michael Stabbe
Tom Lyons Tom Lyons
Greg Ward Greg Ward
1982 Sanpeppy Smoke S Mr Fool’s Smoke x Minnie Gal x Peppy San Kenny Pugh Pugh/Sanders
1983 Im Full Of Pep S Peppy San Badger x Im A Sugar Vandy x Sugar Vandy Stan Fonsen Art Haskins
1984 Plumb Dry S Dry Doc x Pantera Chex x King Fritz
1985 Peppy Par Three S Peppy San x Three Parette x Par Three
1986 Smokinic M Reminic x Smoke’s Belle x Mr Gun Smoke
1987 Nu Cash S Colonel Freckles x Nu Rendition x Nu Bar
1988 Smart Little Calboy S Smart Little Lena x Miss Cal Sen x Cal Bar
Gary Baumer Leonard/Patricia Brooks
Greg Wright Charles Walker
Greg Ward Pat Hubbert
Ted Robinson Ralph/Mickey Gragg
Bob Avila David Roberts
1989 Ima Jo’s Doll (AP) M Ima Doc O’Lena x Quanah’s Leo Girl x Kickapoo Carl Gould Walker/Hale
1990 Otoe Master S Master Remedy x Sizzlin Otoe x Tommy Otoe
1991 Master Checks G Master Remedy x Bueno Chex Kaweah x Bueno Chex
1992 Mr San Olen S Peppy San Badger x San O Lenita x Tenino San
1993 Miss Rey Dry M Dry Doc x Starlita Sequin x Rey Jay
1994 Masteroani S Master Remedy x Just Doc’s Socks x Docs Fri Dee Bar
1995 The Nu Colonel S Nu Cash x Malbeckin x Doc’s Malbec
1996 Shes Lota Cash M Nu Cash x Snip Gay Bar x Gay Bar King
Jon Roeser Kibby Maxwell
Ted Robinson Dee Fitzgerald
Doug Williamson Don Haskell
Sandy Collier David/Paula Hunsicker
John Ward Ronald DeReis, Sr.
Ted Robinson Bobby/Chris Gregg
Ted Robinson D & J Farms
1997 Smart Little Cash G Nu Cash x Lil Miss Smarty Chex x Smart Little Lena Ted Robinson Allan/Michelle Moyer
1998 Reminics Pep S Reminic x Peppy Remedy x Peppy San Badger Greg Ward Greg/Laura Ward
1999 Smart Zanolena S Smart Chic Olena x Zanee Lynx x Doc’s Lynx Bob Avila Matt/Lesley Day
2000 Smokums Prize S Smokum Oak x Tommie Tivio Tucker x Doc Tom Tucker Ted Robinson Shawn Renshaw
2001 Boonlight Dancer S Peptoboonsmal x Little Dancer Lena x Smart Little Lena Todd Bergen Vaughn Zimmerman
2002 Doc At Night S Mr San Olen x Docs Hickory Nut x Doc’s Hickory Doug Williamson Sandie Braden
2003 Chics Magic Potion S Smart Chic Olena x Remedys Magic Potion x Remedys Reply Bob Avila Needle/Avila/Carpenter
2004 Starlight Captain S Captain Nice x Starlight Sally x Grays Starlight Brandon Staebler Brandon Staebler
2005 Nu Circle Of Light S Nu Circle N Cash x Katie Starlight x Grays Starlight Ted Robinson Hunsicker/Robinson
2006 Smart Crackin Chic M Smart Chic Olena x Kwackin x Dual Pep Todd Crawford Singleton Ranches
2007 Oh Cay N Short S Oh Cay Quixote x Bit Of Shorty x Shorty Lena Boyd Rice Keven & Sydney Knight
2008 Black Pearl M Smart Little Pepinic x Sugar Babe Taffy x Master Remedy John Ward Ward Ranch
2009 Reymanator S Dual Rey x Savannah Hickory x Doc’s Hickory Zane Davis John Semanik
2010 Stylish Little Oak M Playin Stylish x Shiners Little Oak x Shining Spark Tucker Robinson San Juan Ranch
2011 Shiners Dun Juan G Smart Shiner x Cremes Chic Olena x Smart Chic Olena Todd Bergen Bill & Janiejill Tointon
2012 CD Diamond S CD Olena x Shiners Diamond Girl x Shining Spark Corey Cushing San Juan Ranch
2013 Time For The Diamond S One Time Pepto x Diamonds With Style x Playin Stylish Nick Dowers Triple D Ranches
2014 Good Time G One Time Pepto x Dual Nurse x Dual Pep Corey Cushing Lynne Wurzer
2015 Starlight Kisses M Shady Lil Starlight x Kiss My Shiny Lips x Shining Spark Jake Telford Holy Cow Perf. Horses
2016 Duals Lucky Charm G Dual Smart Rey x TRR Pepcid Olena x Pepcid Kelby Phillips Mike/Robyne Stewart
2017 Plain Catty S Bet Hesa Cat x Miss Plain Plain x Just Plain Colonel Jake Gorrell Kevin Cantrelle
2018 SJR Diamond Mist S CD Diamond x Cat Mist x High Brow Cat Corey Cushing San Juan Ranch
2019 Here Comes The Boon S Once In A Blu Boon x Stay Outta My Shorts x Shorty Lena Lance Johnston Rocking BS Ranch
2020 Selvarey M Dual Rey x Shine Smarter x WR This Cats Smart Sarah Dawson Sheri Jamieson
2021 Zak 34 S Woody Be Tuff x Cats Dig Lucinda x High Brow Cat Justin Wright Melissa Fischer
2022 Tornado Jonez G Stevie Rey Von x Missi Jonez x Travelin Jonez Lee Deacon Brandy Ragland
2023 ReysmHigh S Dual Smart Rey x Prowlin High x High Brow Cat Corey Cushing Heather Vatcher
PAST NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® CHAMPIONS
NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Champions
Year Horse Sex Pedigree Rider Owner
1975 Doc’s Know How G Doc’s Cowboy x Flowergirl Peake x Wooden Nugget Tyke Minetti Clarence Minetti
1976 San Juan Chex G King Fritz x Apache Kitty x Apache Reed Pat Bello Pat Bello
1977 Andy Green Springs G Sugar Vandy x Miss Seligman 15 x Sykes II Gerry Westfall Gerry Westfall
1978 Diamond Jewel Wood (PT) S Diamond Jim x Castros Sister x Tony Hank Karen Kittleson Karen Kittleson
1979 Sugar D’or M Sugar Jars x Triple D’or x Triple Rick Zera Varian Zera Varian
1980 Gays Leo Bar S Gay Bar King x Bar’s Spotlight x Leo San Pat Bello Pat Bello
1981 Martha Ann Rey M Rey Solis x San Time x Lito Rojo Kathy Wilson Thomas/Dixie Young
1982 Fernwood Tivio S Duster Bonanza x Angelita Tivio x Puro Tivio Frank Rue Rue/Forsman
1983 Doc S George M Docs Silver Bar x Rey Three x Senor George Kathy Wilson Young/Wilson
1984 Billy Clover G Peppy San Bar x Miss Bras Bar x Son O Sugar Kathy Wilson Young/Wilson
1985 Shesa Lou Too M Hesa Commander x Terralito x Lee’s Duke
1986 San Zorro S Rey De Peppy x Zorra x Two Eyed Fox
Bob Scott Scott Saddle
Glenn Barlow Barlow Livestock
1987 Peppy Smoke Bar Lady M Sanpeppy Smoke x Norton’s Lady x Topbar Bob Jody Gearhart Larry/Jody Gearhart
1988 Cash Little Lena G Smart Little Lena x Miss Cash Cutter x Ben’s Cardinal Jody Gearhart Larry/Jody Gearhart
1989 Oakin Around S Doc’s Oak x Bar Bull Miss x Bull Parker
1990 Colonel De Boon S Colonel Freckles x Boon Chick x Boon Bar
1991 Cowtown Hickory G Doc’s Hickory x Prissy Chex x King Fritz
Kathy Gould Carl/Kathy Gould
Tom Buckingham Tom Buckingham
Jody Semper Semper Truck Lines
1992 Spats O Lena S Colonel Spats x Lenas Trinket x Doc O’Lena Patti Davis Patti Davis
1993 Hollywood Boulevard G Doc O’Lena x Holly B Gold x Hollywood Bill Matt Day Matt Day
1994 Master Rani Chex M Master Remedy x Bueno Chex Rani x Bueno Chex Jody Gearhart Larry/Jody Gearhart
1995 Smokums Miss Doc Bar M Smokum Oak x Doc’s Fancy Pants x Doc Bar Korie Baker Monte/Korie Baker
1996 Lenas Hill Billy G Clark Hill Billie x Shesa Leo Lena x Hes A Doc O’Lena
1997 Nicilena G Just Plain Colonel x Quickinici Lena x Lenas Sonny Boy
1998 Magical Lena M Little Lenas Legend x Swayback Magic x Early Tink
Glenn Barlow Barlow Livestock
JoAnne Carollo Jim/JoAnne Carollo
Anne M. Reynolds Anne M. Reynolds
1999 Roosters Chicaroo M Gallo Del Cielo x Meerly Chic Olena x Smart Chic Olena JoAnne Carollo Jim/JoAnne Carollo
2000 Missn No Chex S Miss N Cash x Olenas Watchfob x Dell O Lena Dema Paul Jim/Dema Paul
2001 Plan To Win (PT) G A Master Plan x Lenas Solana x Docs Hi Lena
JoAnne Carollo Jim/JoAnne Carollo
2002 Justa Hot Chic M Just Plain Colonel x Reminics Bar Girl x Reminic Laurie Ward Laurie Ward
2003 Legendary Colonel G Little Lenas Legend x Colonel De Light x Colonel De Boon Anne M. Reynolds Anne M. Reynolds
2004 Shiners Dulena G Shining Spark x Docs Sulena x Doc O’Lena Dema Paul Jim & Dema Paul
2005 More Magic Please G Chic Please x Magical Lena x Little Lenas Legend
2006 QR Powderific S Powder River Playboy x Ill Be Baby x Ill Be Smart
2007 Wheres My Shine M Shining Spark x Boomerita x Boomernic
2008 Smart Shiney Lena S Smart Shiner x Sassy O Lena x Doc O’Lena
2009 Shiney And Verysmart S Very Smart Remedy x Shirley Shine x Shining Spark
Anne M. Reynolds Anne M. Reynolds
Anne M. Reynolds Anne M. Reynolds
Michelle Cowan William/Michelle Cowan
Dema Paul Jim/Dema Paul
Anne M. Reynolds Anne M. Reynolds
2010 Very Smart Playmate M Very Smart Remedy x Gunna Be Mine x Gunna Smoke Anne M. Reynolds Joyce Pearson
2011 Smart Magic Trick M Very Smart Remedy x Magical Lena x Little Lenas Legend Anne M. Reynolds Joyce Pearson
2012 Very Black Magic S Very Smart Remedy x Magical Lena x Little Lenas Legend Anne M. Reynolds Joyce Pearson
2013 SDP Got Fancy Genes M RC Fancy Step x SDP I Got Good Genes x Dual Rey
Tammy Jo Hays
Tammy Jo Hays/Walter Greeman
2014 Miss Prize Maker M Topsails Rien Maker x Miss Colonels Prize x Smokums Prize Tammy Jo Hays Tammy Jo Hays/Walter Greeman
2015 Kiss Me A Lot M Master Getta x Kiss Me A Little x Smart Little Pepinic Laurie Richards Laurie Richards
2016 Royal Isabella M One Time Royalty x Oaks Rowdycat x High Brow Cat Kathy Ferguson Dave/Kathy Ferguson
PAST NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® CHAMPIONS
$206,500 TO BE awarded in 2025 THROUGH
Jan. 14-15
AQHA Classes
• JUNIOR WORKING COW HORSE
• SENIOR WORKING COW HORSE
• AMATEUR WORKING COW HORSE
• AMATEUR BOXING
• YOUTH WORKING COW HORSE
• YOUTH BOXING
HORSE AUCTIONS
Jan. 18
Jan. 14-15
NRCHA Classes
• OPEN HACKAMORE
• LTD. OPEN HACKAMORE
• OPEN BRIDLE
• LTD. OPEN BRIDLE
• OPEN TWO REIN
• NON PRO BRIDLE
• INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BRIDLE
• LIMITED NON PRO BRIDLE
• NON PRO HACKAMORE
Fort Worth Heritage Sale Invitational Ranch Horse Show & Sale NEW DATE!
• NON PRO TWO REIN
• NON PRO BOXING
• INTERMEDIATE NON PRO BOXING
• YOUTH COW HORSE
featuring AQHA Best of the Remuda Sale & 68 th Annual Select Quarter Horse Sale
• YOUTH BOXING
$3,650 added money in NRCHA Classes
(entries accepted until Dec. 30, with late fees)
PAST NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® CHAMPIONS
NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Boxing Champions
Non Pro Boxing was formerly known as Non Pro Limited.
Year Horse
2013 Tangy Chexinic Tangys Classy Peppy x Buenos Double Oakie x Bueno Chexinic
2014 Under Lights CD Lights x Shiners Missy Jay x Shining Spark
2015 Stylish Ike Playin Stylish x Miss Catty Cash x Nu Cash
2017 Dually Judged Judge Boon x Catty Dual Jazz x Dual Jazz
2018 Gunning Moonshine Cats Moonshine x Young Guns Missy x Young Gun
2020 Wing AndA Prayer Meteles Cat x Wings OfA Lena x Quejanaisalena
D. Emmons LaDona D. Emmons
2016 Cattyholic Catty Hawk x Boomerita x Boomernic Mindy L. Barkemeyer Mindy L. Barkemeyer
D. Ellsworth Andrea-Lee D. Ellsworth
2019 CW One Bay Boon Once In A Blue Boon x CW Charlies Angel x SM Blazin Dually Sawyer C. Sanders
2022 All That Shine All That Boon x Circle N Shine x Nu Circle N Cash
2023 Hinge Rollz Royce x Cat Never Lose x High Brow Cat
Mitchell John/Hope Mitchell 2021 LookAtLittleSister Stevie Rey Von x Smart Playing Chic x Smart Chic Olena Kelsey D. Fulmer Kelsey DeLaPlaine Fulmer
Stevens S C Ranch Company Inc.
Brown Larry Hall Cutting Horses, LLC
Shown by Chris Dawson
SALLY RAVE ON
OwnedbyHoly CowPerformance Horses
Shown by Chris Dawson
Ownedby Holy CowPerformanceHorses
Shown by Chris Dawson
Owned by Holy Cow Perfor mance Horses Shown Chri D y w Performan H Sh ON
PAST OPEN BRIDLE CHAMPIONS
The Open Bridle class is a perennial crowd-pleaser at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. This exciting event showcases veteran horses shown by professional trainers in rein work and cow work. Each horse-and-rider combination brings years of training and experience to the show arena, and the competition is always fast paced and fierce.
Year Horse Sex Pedigree
1974 Wrong Key M Salero Bar x Palm Sunday
1975 Burnt Girl M Burnt Spur x Lucky Split
1976 Royal Cutter G Cutter Bill x Royal Ida Mae
1977 Chex Of Chex G King Fritz x Camay Five
1978 Royal Cutter G Cutter Bill x Royal Ida Mae
1979 Kit’s Smoke M Mr Gun Smoke x Mac’s Sujo
1980 Smokes Belle M Mr Gun Smoke x Mac’s Sujo
1981 Smokes Belle M Mr Gun Smoke x Mac’s Sujo
1982 Royal Cutter G Cutter Bill x Royal Ida Mae
1983 Star Polly Bar M Docs Star Barred x Tourista
1984 Rub A Dub Doc G Doc Bar x Chubber Cheeks
1985 Fresno Divi Chex S Bueno Chex x Fresno Snort
1986 Mister Tiv G Johnny Tivio x Night Mist
1987 Mister Tiv G Johnny Tivio x Night Mist
Industry & Facility Partners
Rider
Owner
Les Vogt Fred Mungia
Bobby Ingersoll Strain Ranches
Ken Sutton Ken Sutton
Les Vogt NP Mussallem
Bobby Ingersoll Ken Sutton
Benny Guitron Bert Crane
Pat Hubbert Pat Hubbert
Pat Hubbert Pat Hubbert
Bobby Ingersoll Ken Sutton
John Brazil, Jr. John Brazil, Jr.
Bobby Ingersoll S. & B. Skiff
Jack Hitchings T. & M. Teahon
Jody Gearhart Larry & Jody Gearhart
Jody Gearhart Larry & Jody Gearhart
continued from page 102
PAST OPEN BRIDLE CHAMPIONS
Year Horse Sex Pedigree
1988 Tiger Commander S Hesa Commander x King Rowels Lady
1989 Monta Doc Imp S Montana Doc x Imprint Ace
1990 Chex A Nic G Reminic x Bueno Chex Bonita
1991 Dot O Lena M Dell O Lena x Freedom Chex
Rider
Owner
Gary Baumer Collins & Baumer
Dan Mendes R & H Enterprises
Les Vogt Blumenthal & Pinkard
Jon Roeser John Showalter
1992 Dot O Lena M Dell O Lena x Freedom Chex
1993 Charter Colonel G Colonel Freckles x Gay Curl
1994 Charter Colonel G Colonel Freckles x Gay Curl
1995 Charter Colonel G Colonel Freckles x Gay Curl
1996 Smokum Doc Bar G Smokum Oak x Docs Fancy Pants
1997 Tejons Peppy Doc S Peppy San Badger x Doc O’Lenita
1998 Tejons Lena Nic S Reminic x Doc O’Lenita
1999 Smokin Master G Master Remedy x Miss Smoking Leo
2000 Smokin Master G Master Remedy x Miss Smoking Leo
2001 Just Quick Colonel M Just Plain Colonel x Quickinic
2002 Quick Little Cutter G Smart Cash Cutter x Doc Mapuana Bueno
2003 Starlight Playmate M Grays Starlight x Saturday Playmate
2004 Tangys Classy Boy S Tangys Classy Peppy x Crimson Sassy Chick
2005 Camiseta Peppy G Camiseta Badger x Princess Tari
x Miss Plain Dual
Tenlight S Grays Starlight x Docs Poco Ten
x
Jon Roeser John Showalter
Ted Robinson Ralph & Mickey Gragg
Ted Robinson Ralph & Mickey Gragg
Ted Robinson Ralph & Mickey Gragg
Sandy Collier Monte Baker
Todd Crawford Joe & Roberta Duarte
Dan Roeser Calvin & Marilyn Dickerson
Todd Crawford Adam Williams
Todd Crawford Adam Williams
Kathy Gould Katrina Templeton
Al Dunning Bill & Michelle Cowan
Todd Crawford Kalpowar Quarter Horses
Ron Emmons Partners N Paints
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PAST OPEN HACKAMORE CHAMPIONS
Many NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® horses return to the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® horse show as 4- and 5-year-olds to compete in the hackamore. This is another highly competitive class that offers a rich paycheck and a sought-after championship at stake.
Year Horse Sex Pedigree Rider Owner
1972 Royal Cutter G Cutter Bill x Royal Ida Mae
1973 Doc’s Abe G Doc Bar x Lucky Splita
1974 Cutter’s Rocket G Cutter Bill x Royal Ida Mae
1975 D’Or Sugar Spice M Sir Raleigh x Gidget ann
1976 Foxie Doc M Doc Bar x Lucky Debbie Lady
1977 Shady Chex G King Fritz x LM Star Lady
1978 Kay Gee Doc G Doc’s Cowboy x Ray Gee Bar
1979 Hobbys Tic Tac G Hobby Horse x G Fern Hard Sauce
1980 Tucker Mud Doc M Doc Tom Tucker x Sissy Mud
1981 Political Smoker M Mr Gun Smoke x Mac’s Sujo
1982 Bueno Chex Willie S Bueno Chex x Sug’s Honey
1983 Olde Hobby Horse G Hobby Horse x Little Miss Chex
1984 Doc Olenas Mark S Doc O’Lena x Monet Clabber
1985 Smokum Oak S Doc’s Oak x Gunsmoke Ann
1986 Chex A Nic G Reminic x Bueno Chex Bonita
Event Sponsors
Ken Sutton Ken Sutton
Bobby Ingersoll Edie Strain
Ronnie Richards Sally Schonlaw
Bobby Ingersoll Don Calegari
Gary Baumer Aldo Sansoni
Bill Wildes Vicki Beckham
Bruce Gilchrist Bruce Gilchrist
Bobby Ingersoll Bill Gibford
Benny Guitron Bar Eleven Ranch
Benny Guitron Jerry Rava
Dema Clark Manuel Cordoza
Jack Hitchings H. & M. Switzer
Bobby Ingersoll Morris Shidner
Greg Wright Walter & Sharon Wright
Les Vogt Les Vogt
PAST OPEN HACKAMORE CHAMPIONS
Year Horse Sex Pedigree
1987 Freight Train G Reminic x Calan Gay
1988 Borrego Lena S Doc Olenas Mark x Copper Tees Image
1989 Tux N Tail G Doc Tom Tucker x King Eleven Doll
1990 Tommys Petite Doc G Doc Tom Tucker x Petite Doc Bar
1991 Lil Miss Smarty Chex M Smart Little Lena x Miss Reed Chex
1992 Nuthin Nic M Reminic x Nuthin Butsmoke
1993 Master Checks G Master Remedy x Bueno Chex Kaweah
1994 Litas Sans M Master Remedy x Sausalita
1995 Freckle Face Smoke S Freckle Faced Kid x Bonnie Smoke
1996 Freckle Face Smoke S Freckle Faced Kid x Bonnie Smoke
1997 Colonels Hot Chic M Just Plain Colonel x Reminics Bar Girl
1998 A Royal River G Powder River Playboy x Sis Royal Mahogany
1999 Deb Olenas Gunsmoke G Hired Gunsmoke x Deb Olenas
2000 Shine Like Hail S Shining Spark x Summer Chex
2001 Smart Time Tuck G Senors Lil Brudder x Smoke Time Tuck
2002 Smart Time Tuck G Senors Lil Brudder x Smoke Time Tuck
2003 Dunnit By Chex M Bueno Chexinic x Its Not All Dun
2004 Very Smart Remedy S Smart Little Lena x Remedys Response
Rider
Owner
Ted Robinson Dee Fitzgerald
Bobby Ingersoll Terry & Diane O’Keefe
Les Vogt Les Vogt
Lyn Anderson Pete Bennett
Les Vogt Ron Newark
Pat Hubbert Pat Hubbert
Ted Robinson Dee Fitzgerald
Ted Robinson John & Heidi Brough
Smoky Pritchett Smoky Pritchett
Smoky Pritchett Smoky Pritchett
John Ward Chuck & Lynn Tuffli
Ken Wold Jack & Jodi Elliott
Todd Crawford John & Jill Newcomb
Todd Crawford Alan & Kay Needle
Lyn Anderson Kathryn Schaefer
Lyn Anderson Kathryn Schaefer
Rachel Eady Rachel Eady
Roeser Anne Reynolds
2005 Shining Smartly M Shining Spark x Smart Hickory Ron Ralls Richie Bell
2006 Rudys Wright S Lenas Wright On x Ms Enterprise Ron Ralls Patty Ralls
2007 Shining Sparkle Lena M Shine With A
THE MILLION DOLLAR CLUB
As cow horse grows, so does the number of NRCHA Million Dollar Riders. Since the 2023 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, two NRCHA professionals crossed the threshold to earn their spots in the club.
All earnings are as of August 31, 2024
MILLION DOLLAR RIDER: SHAWN HAYS
During last year’s NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, Weatherford, Texas, horseman Shawn Hays earned his way into Million Dollar Rider status after earning his third-place finish in the Open Futurity Finals and the reserve champion title in the Intermediate Open. Hays rode Angela Massey’s Paint It Blak, a 2020 gelding by CR Gotcha Covered and out of Herbs Lady, with a composite score of 659 (H:214.5/R:223/C:222.5). In the Intermediate Open Finals, Hays and Justa Swinging Ruby, a 2020 mare by Bet Hesa Cat and out of Justa Swinging Jewel, placed 15th for owner Greene Springs Cattle Co. Over the course of the 2023 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, Hays added a total of $117,000 to his lifetime earnings.
As a youth, Hays competed in American Quarter Horse Association all-around events then apprenticed for notable horsemen JD Yates and Jay Holmes. After working with Don Murphy, cow horse became Hays’ passion and focus. He earned his first NRCHA check in 2004. Since then, he’s continued his winning ways, including claiming the 2024 NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman® title with MoonshineAndTwoAdvil, by Metallic Cat and out of Little Short Stuff, also owned by Massey, as well as two reserve World’s Greatest Horseman® and multiple World Championships prior to that big win.
On top of being a top-notch open competitor, Hays coaches non pro and youth riders to great success, including his wife, Tammy Jo, and his son, Hunter.
MILLION DOLLAR RIDER: ERIN TAORMINO
Born in Saskatchewan, Canada, Taormino grew up riding for fun and then at a higher level. Her naturally competitive spirit led her to success in all-around events. Taormino became an NRCHA professional in 2014, and the young phenom made her first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Finals just a year later, earning the reserve champion title. That same year, she was a central focus of the documentary “Down the Fence” alongside legends of her sport.
At the beginning of 2024, Taormino knew surpassing the million-dollar threshold was possible. But in June, it seemed like that goal might need to go on hold after she broke her leg in an accident with a horse.
“I had a good idea that it was within reach at the start of the year,” she said. “I wasn’t keeping track, but my husband, Anthony, knew exactly how much I needed. I didn’t want to know. But then I broke my leg on June 28, had surgery on July 5 and was sidelined until August.”
Taormino spent her recovery watching her horses with other riders and leaning on her close circle of friends for support to keep her attitude in line with her goals. With just a few weeks back in the saddle before The Run For A Million at the South Point Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Taormino leaned on her stellar mount Hazardouz Material, owned by Linda Mars.
“I feel like everything happens for a reason,” she shared. “We might not know why, but it does. That horse is one of the best I’ve had, so to do it on him, at that show in front of that crowd, was amazing. Becoming a million dollar rider was always a dream and a goal, but for me, personally, I didn’t think about it that much. It was more of a product of other, shorter-term goals I never thought it was something that I could achieve, and it happened faster than I ever thought it could. My husband and I have only had our own training business for eight years. Having my name on a banner next to people who I look up to—that’s surreal. It’s one of the best things I’ve done.”
COREY CUSHING/$3,649,171.70
Hometown: Weatherford, Texas
Notable Notes: Achieved the million-dollar milestone at age 32 during the 2012 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® when he won his first open championship. He became the first NRCHA Three Million Dollar Rider in 2022.
TODD CRAWFORD/$2,850,817.45
Hometown: Blanchard, Oklahoma
Notable Notes: Won the 2006 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, is an NRCHA Stakes and Derby Champion, holds multiple American Quarter Horse Association Working Cow Horse and Reining World Championships and is a member of the NRCHA Hall of Fame.
JUSTIN WRIGHT/$2,851,395.13
Hometown: Santa Maria, California
Notable Notes: Has earned multiple NRCHA premier event Derby and Spectacular titles. He became an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider in 2018 and a Two Million Dollar Rider in 2022.
TODD BERGEN/$2,740,201.35
Hometown: Eagle Point, Oregon
Notable Notes: NRCHA’s second Two Million Dollar Rider and the first rider to achieve millionaire status in two different associations when, in 2004, he became a National Reining Horse Association Million Dollar Rider.
JAKE TELFORD/$2,255,238.89
Hometown: Caldwell, Idaho
Notable Notes: Achieved NRCHA Million Dollar Rider status in less than a dozen years of NRCHA competition. He’s an NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion and multiple World and National Champion.
SARAH DAWSON/$2,136,084.80
Hometown: Perrin, Texas
Notable Notes: Won her first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champion title in 2020, making her the second woman to hold the title. She became a Two Million Dollar Rider in 2023.
CHRIS DAWSON/$2,210,912.29
Hometown: Perrin, Texas
Notable Notes: In 2013, Dawson collected four out of five NRCHA premier event championship titles. In 2023, he surpassed the Two Million Dollar Rider threshold.
TED ROBINSON/$1,970,601.78
Hometown: Oak View, California
Notable Notes: NRCHA’s first Million Dollar Rider. He has a record seven NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Championships and two World’s Greatest Horseman® titles to his name and is a member of the NRCHA Hall of Fame.
ZANE DAVIS/$1,934,935.04
Hometown: Blackfoot, Idaho
Notable Notes: Won the 2009 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Championship, the 2017 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Reserve Championship, the 2014 Hackamore Classic Open Championship and many other NRCHA premier event titles.
ANNIE M. REYNOLDS/$1,735,212.15
Hometown: King Hill, Idaho
Notable Notes: NRCHA’s only non pro female Million Dollar Rider. She won an unprecedented eight NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Non Pro Championships. She was inducted into the NRCHA Hall of Fame in 2015.
BOYD RICE/$1,813,417.85
Hometown: Weatherford, Texas
Notable Notes: Also a National Cutting Horse Association multi-million-dollar rider. Won the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® in 2007 and the World’s Greatest Horseman® in 2014 on Oh Cay N Short, the first pair to capture both prestigious titles.
PHILLIP RALLS/$1,644,140.72
Hometown: Paso Robles, California
Notable Notes: Has won the World’s Greatest Horseman® once and earned multiple reserve finishes in the five-phase event. His father is NRCHA Hall of Fame rider Ron Ralls.
JON ROESER/$1,643,332.23
Hometown: Kuna, Idaho
Notable Notes: Has won every major NRCHA title, including the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and World’s Greatest Horseman®. He’s a member of the NRCHA Hall of Fame, alongside his his father, Jim Roeser, and brother, Dan Roeser.
CLAYTON EDSALL/$1,607,454.02
Hometown: Mineral Wells, Texas
Notable Notes: Has won almost every major NRCHA premier event, participated in the 2024 winning team at The American Performance Horseman and is originally from Montana.
MATT KOCH/$1,614,483.40
Hometown: Elizabeth, Colorado
Notable Notes: Started his career on the ranch and has ridden his way to the top of many NRCHA premier events. Competed in the 2024 The American Performance Horseman event.
PHILLIPS/$1,579,278.09
Hometown: Weatherford, Texas
Notable Notes: Youngest trainer to achieve Million Dollar Rider status. Has earned multiple NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® titles and a World’s Greatest Horseman® title.
KELBY
JAY MCLAUGHLIN/$1,466,734.16
Hometown: Clarendon, Texas
Notable Notes: Has 12 NRCHA and AQHA World Championships to his credit, as the 2013 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Reserve Champion and the 2015 NRCHA Stakes Open Champion and has claimed numerous other titles.
JAKE GORRELL/$1,438,363.50
Hometown: Porterville, California
Notable Notes: Won the 2017 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open, has earned numerous NRCHA premier event titles and is a regular competitor in the World’s Greatest Horseman® competition.
LANCE JOHNSTON/$1,447,540.32
Hometown: Lindsay, California
Notable Notes: Won the 2019 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open and Intermediate Open championships and holds multiple premier event titles.
DOUG WILLIAMSON/$1,425,791.97
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona
Notable Notes: NRCHA’s oldest Million Dollar Rider, reaching the milestone at 70 years old. He’s won the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® multiple times.
NICK DOWERS/$1,410,248.54
Hometown: Dyer, Nevada
Notable Notes: Holds Open and Intermediate Open NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® titles as well as multiple premier event wins.
RON RALLS/$1,150,581.13
Hometown: Gainesville, Texas
Notable Notes: A two-time World’s Greatest Horseman® winner and a member of the NRCHA Hall of Fame.
JOHN WARD/$1,211,544.37
Hometown: Kingsburg, California
Notable Notes: Two-time NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion, NRCHA Hall of Fame rider and is the owner/ operator of Ward Ranch, which is part of a family legacy of great wins and legendary cow horses.
LUKE JONES/$1,105,196.06
Hometown: Allerton, Iowa
Notable Notes: Also trains champion-caliber roping horses. Has competed with many AQHA World Show finalists.
JOHN SWALES/$1,076,114.95
Hometown: Millarville, Alberta, Canada
Notable Notes: Two-time World’s Greatest Horseman® winner and Open and Intermediate Open NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® finalist. First Canadian to reach Million Dollar Rider status.
KEN WOLD/$1,046,223.08
Hometown: Wilton, California
Notable Notes: Became a cow horse trainer in the 1970s. His legacy as an NRCHA professional earned him a spot in the NRCHA Hall of Fame in 2008.
BOB AVILA/$1,046,865.50
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona
Notable Notes: NRCHA’s second Million Dollar Rider. Three-time NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Champion, a World’s Greatest Horseman® Champion and an NRCHA Hall of Fame inductee.
SHAWN HAYS/$ 1,198,921.44
Hometown: Weatherford, Texas
Notable Notes: Two-time World’s Greatest Horseman® reserve champion and earned the 2024 World’s Greatest Horseman® champion title; perennial finalist at all NRCHA premier events.
Break free
Help your equine patients by controllingthe clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis
•The only FDA approvedpentosan polysulfate sodium injection
•Convenient;only4intramuscularinjections required
•Not limited to use for specificjoints1
24-hour Veterinary Technical Support available: (866) 933-2472
Nonurgent Technical Support available:support@dechra.com
Important SatefyInformation
Aswithalldrugs, sideeffectsmayoccur.Forintramuscularuseinhorses only.Notfor usein humans.Pentosanpolysulfate sodiumis aweakanticoagulant.Cautionshouldbeused whenadministeringZycosanifyouaretakingananticoagulant. Incaseofaccidental self-injection,seekimmediatemedicalattention.Ifproductcomesintocontactwith skin,rinse skinthoroughlywithwater andseekmedicalattentionifneeded. HorseswithhypersensitivitytopentosanpolysulfatesodiumshouldnotreceiveZycosan.Do notuseZycosanconcurrentlywithotheranticoagulantdrugs. Donotuseinhorseswithclotting disordersorwithin24hoursof surgicalprocedures.Cautionshouldbeusedwhenadministeringthisdrugbeforeorafterstrenuousactivities.Cautionshouldbe used whenNSAIDSareadministeredconcurrentlyduetotheanticoagulanteffectsofZycosan.IfZycosanandNSAIDSareused concurrently,horsesshouldbemonitoredforhemorrhageorotherclinicalsignsofabnormal bleeding.ThesafeuseofZycosanhas not beenevaluatedinbreeding,pregnant,orlactatinghorses.Thesafetyoflong-termrepeatuseofZycosanhasnot been evaluated.Themostfrequentlyreportedadversereactionsareinjectionsitereactions,prolongationofcoagulationparameters (activatedpartialthromboplastintime(aPTT)andprothrombintime(PT).Refertotheprescribinginformationfor completedetailsor visit ww w.dechra-us.com.
Zycosan®
(pentosan polysulfate sodium injection)
250 mg/mL
For intramuscular use in horses only. Brief Summary (For Full Prescribing Information, see package insert)
CAUTION: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
DESCRIPTION: Zycosan contains pentosan polysulfate sodium, a semi-synthetic polysulfated xylan.
It is a pale yellow to brownish yellow, clear, sterile solution.
INDICATION: For the control of clinical signs associated with osteoarthritis in horses.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Horses with hypersensitivity to pentosan polysulfate sodium or any of the inactive ingredients in Zycosan should not receive Zycosan. Do not use Zycosan concurrently with other anticoagulant drugs. Do not use in horses with clotting disorders or within 24 hours of surgical procedures (see Warnings and Precautions).
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS:
User Safety Warnings: Not for use in humans. Keep out of reach of children. Pentosan polysulfate sodium is a weak anticoagulant. Caution should be used when administering Zycosan if you are taking an anticoagulant. In case of accidental self-injection, seek immediate medical attention. If product comes into contact with skin, rinse skin thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if needed. To obtain a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), contact Dechra at (866) 933-2472.
Animal Safety Warnings and Precautions: Zycosan has been shown to prolong coagulation parameters up to 24 hours after injection, therefore caution should be used when administering this drug before or after strenuous activities (see Target Animal Safety). Due to the anticoagulant effects, this drug may exacerbate Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH).
The concurrent use of NSAIDs with Zycosan has not been evaluated. Due to the anticoagulant effects of Zycosan and known anticoagulant effects of some NSAIDs, caution should be used if NSAIDs are concurrently administered. Horses concurrently treated with Zycosan and NSAIDs should be monitored for hemorrhage or other clinical signs of abnormal bleeding (e.g., petechiae, ecchymosis, or epistaxis). The safety of long-term repeat use of Zycosan has not been evaluated. Pigmentary changes in the retina (pigmentary maculopathy) have been reported in human patients following long-term oral use of pentosan polysulfate sodium. It is not known if a similar finding occurs in horses. The safe use of Zycosan has not been evaluated in breeding, pregnant, or lactating horses.
Other Warnings: Do not use in horses intended for human consumption.
ADVERSE REACTIONS:
Injection site reactions were the most frequently reported adverse reactions in the field study. Injection site reactions were associated with clinicopathology changes in some cases. Other adverse reactions reported in more than one horse were prolongation of coagulation parameters (activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT)), lethargy, behavior changes, and colic. To report suspected adverse events, for technical assistance or to obtain a copy of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), contact Dechra at (866) 933-2472 . For additional information about adverse drug experience reporting for animal drugs, contact FDA at 1-888-FDA-VETS or online at http://www.fda.gov/reportanimalae.
STORAGE CONDITIONS: Store at room temperature 68-77°F (20-25°C), with excursions to 59-86°F (15-30°C).
MANUFACTURED FOR:
Dechra Veterinary Products 7015 College Boulevard, Suite 525
Overland Park, KS 66211 USA
Approved by FDA under NADA # 141-559 Zycosan is a trademark of Dechra Limited.
R 01 2023
ERIN TAORMINO/$1,031,010.57
Hometown: Lipan, Texas
Notable Notes: 2021 Stallion Stakes Champion, Reserve Open Champion at the 2015 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and is a regular finalist at all NRCHA premier events.
MILLION DOLLAR SIRES
NRCHA event purses continue to grow, and that means the sport’s top stallions continue to accumulate offspring earnings that support their status in the Western performance horse industry. This year, NRCHA added three stallions to the million-dollar ranks.
MILLION DOLLAR SIRE: STEVIE REY VON
In 2022, Stevie Rey Von (Metallic Cat x Miss Ella Rey x Dual Rey) not only sired the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Champion, Tornado Jonez, but also the Reserve Futurity Champion, Vince Von—both in his first foal crop as an NRCHA sire. He’s also the only living stallion to be a National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Open Futurity Champion that’s sired by an NCHA Open Futurity Champion and has sired an NCHA Open Futurity Champion.
“With his looks as a red roan, being a son of Metallic Cat and a futurity champion, we felt that the reined cow horse world would give him a shot,” said Alvin Fults, owner of Stevie Rey Von with his wife, Becky. “And they did, and we’re so appreciative of that. We’re so grateful that so many wanted to take a shot at him so early. Being that young of a sire, you don’t really know, and it’s a chance these mare owners take.”
Stevie Rey Von’s top-earning offspring are:
•Tornado Jonez (out of Missi Jonez): $258,210.57
•Vince Von (out of Hottness): $213,528.30
•Von Cali (out of Hotel Cali): $91,342.35
MILLION DOLLAR SIRE: KIT KAT SUGAR
MILLION DOLLAR SIRE: ONE TIME ROYALTY
Kit Kat Sugar (High Brow Cat x Sugar N Dulce x Smart Lil Ricochet) earned $240,903 during a stellar cutting career. He has a long list of accolades that includes winning the 2012 NCHA Open Horse of the Year honors. His offspring pushed him over one million dollars in offspring earnings at the 2023 World’s Greatest Horseman®. He’s owned by XIT Ranch, led by third great-grandson of original ranch founder and owner John V. Farwell, Drew Knowles
“When we started building our remuda we started with a handful of the best mares in the country from the Return to the Remuda sale,” said Knowles. “The addition of Kit Kat Sugar shows our commitment to our breeding program and our dedication to building one of the best horse programs in the world.”
Kit Kat Sugar’s highest earners are:
•Scooter Kat (out of Scooters Daisy Dukes): $606,723
•Rein N Kats (out of Scooters Daisy Dukes): $99,490.85
•Kit Kat Jerrie (out of Jerries Dual Legacy): $58,466.18
One Time Royalty (One Time Pepto x Serena Belle x One Hot Invitation) holds $447,543 in National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) lifetime earnings and was inducted into the NCHA Hall of Fame in 2013. The 2007 bay Quarter Horse stallion, owned by SDM Quarter Horses, won the 2010 NCHA Futurity with NCHA Eleven Million Dollar Rider Lloyd Cox.
“It’s a great accomplishment for both One Time Royalty and the Marchant family [to achieve this milestone,” said Brock Malson of Oswood Stallion Station, where One Time Royalty stands. “We at Oswood Stallion Station appreciate the opportunity to be a small part of his journey.”
One Time Royalty’s athleticism and cow sense have made a remarkable impression on several NRCHA competitors. His top three NRCHA earners include:
•Hendrixx (out of Smooth Miss Trona); 2017 stallion; NRCHA LTE $130,070.58
•SJR Royal Diamond (out of Shiners Diamond Girl); 2018 stallion; NRCHA LTE $110,793.59
High Brow Cat (High Brow Hickory x Smart Little Kitty x Smart Peppy) earned $110,800 in his NCHA career and is NCHA’s No. 1 leading cutting sire and has sired eight NCHA Futurity champions. The 1988 chestnut Quarter Horse stallion, owned by BDB Breeders, now has offspring in many Western performance events, from cutting to cow horse and roping.
“Three years ago, at the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, we began working with the top cow horse trainers to have their customers breed their top mares to High Brow Cat,” shared the horse’s owner, Darren Blanton. “Obviously, it worked! We’re doing the same thing in the roping industry, and High Brow Cat is the No. 2 stallion in that industry. We expect High Brow Cat to be the first stallion to hit $1 million dollars in offspring earnings.”
That incredible prowess is easily recognizable in the reined cow horse pen. His top three NRCHA earners include:
•SJR Hitime Shine (out of Shiners Little Oak); 2020 gelding; NRCHA LTE $135,381.19
Metallic Rebel (Metallic Cat x Sweet Abra x Abrakadabracre), owned by Tim and Lisa Guinn, has surpassed one million dollars in offspring earnings this summer.
A standout competitor himself, Metallic Rebel established his own prowess in the cutting pen. He was the 2017 National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Open Horse of the Year, is a member of the NCHA Horse Hall of Fame and is an NCHA World Champion. He accumulated $438,000 in NCHA lifetime earnings.
Metallic Rebel’s foray into the cow horse pen came recently,
MILLION DOLLAR SIRES
with his first NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® entries saddling up in 2022. Just a year later, six of his offspring made the Open finals. Rebel With A Cause (out of Dainty Little Step) and Sarah Dawson placed eighth and Hip Hip Rebel Rey (out of Hip Hip Sue Rey) and Caley Wilson/Kelby Phillips finished 10th.
“He’s such an athlete,” shared Debbie Roberts of Spurs Equine Marketing, representing Metallic Rebel. “He has an amazing mind and is so cowy. We feel strongly that he’ll pass that on to these cow horses.”
Roberts shared that the Guinns have now dipped a toe into the cow horse arena with Reys Desired Rebel, by Metallic Rebel, in training with NRCHA professional Lance Johnston.
Metallic Rebel’s highest-earning offspring include (earnings as of August 29, 2024):
•A Reyl Rebel (out of Never Reylinquish): $185,981.69
•Spanish Nights (out of Lil Bit Reckless): $91,928.78
•ARA Rebel King (out of Never Reylinquish): $56,138.27
Find a complete list of stallions nearing the club’s earnings at nrcha.com/nrcha-million-dollar-sires/. (earnings as of August 29, 2024)
Peptoboonsmal
Very Smart Remedy
Smooth As A Cat
Woody Be Tuff
Dual Smart Rey
Smart Little Pepinic
Nic It In The Bud
Mister Dual Pep
Reminic
Bet Hesa Cat
Stevie Rey Von
Chic Please $1,318,105.50
Nu Cash $1,251,369.48
Smart Little Lena
$1,233,863.06
One Time Royalty $1,085,681.94
High Brow Cat $1,105,119.39
Gallo Del Cielo
$1,074,719.40
Lenas Wright On $1,053,007.33
Metallic Rebel $1,016,629.16
Hickory Holly Time $1,406,958.02
Once in A Blue Boon $1,410,410.63
Grays Starlight $1,419,708.16
Kit Kat Sugar
$1,317,983.52
LEADING DAMS
Each of these mares have proven themselves in and out of the show pen by winning titles and producing earners totaling more than $500,000.
BY CALLIE BOEVERS
In the third year of recognizing NRCHA’s leading dams, new mares continue to rise to the top to join the list of those with offspring earning more than $500,000. Since the 2023 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, four dams joined this prestigious list: Sparking Train, Isabellena, Shine Smarter, and Katie Starlight.
LEADING DAM: SPARKING TRAIN
Sparking Train, a 1998 mare by Shining Spark and out of Sister Train, crossed $500,000 in offspring earnings thanks to the performance of Bet He Sparks in the Open Bridle at the 2023 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®. Bet He Sparks and Clayton Edsall tied for sixth place, earning $4,036.50 to push his dam over the $500,000 mark.
The mare, owned by Jose Milare Garcia, also produced Metallic Train, a 2013 mare with more than $181,000 in earnings; Sparking Metallic, a 2014 mare with more than $58,000 in earnings; and One Sparking Time, a 2015 mare with more than $30,000 in earnings.
LEADING DAM: ISABELLENA
Isabellena, a 2005 mare by Quejanaisalena and out of Safari Belle, crossed $500,000 in offspring earnings after Cuttin Wright Up and Brandon Buttars made the 2024 World’s Greatest Horseman® finals and finished fourth.
The mare, owned by Rocking BS Ranch, has produced over $543,000 with her highest-earning offspring being Cutting Wright Up, a 2011 stallion with more than $162,000 in earnings; followed by Bed Head Cat, a 2010 gelding with more than $92,000 in earnings; and Plain Wright, a 2012 stallion with more than $90,000 in earnings.
LEADING DAM: SHINE SMARTER
With her own lifetime earnings of $345,615, Shine Smarter (WR This Cats Smart x Shiney Tari x Shining Spark), a 2012 Quarter Horse mare, left a mark in the cow horse show pen. Her foals continue to grow into champions and money-earners in their own right, too.
In the capable hands of NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider Sarah Dawson, Shine Smarter made the finals of the 2015 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, placing fifth in the open, reserve in the Intermediate Open and winning the Limited Open, and won the 2017 NRCHA Hackamore Classic Open title. She’s the highest-earning daughter of her dam, Shiney Tari, an NRCHA Million Dollar Dam.
Shine Smarter’s offspring earnings total $504,340.93, with 2020 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open champion Selvarey, by Dual Rey, as her highest earner with more than $240,000 in lifetime earnings.
LEADING DAM: KATIE STARLIGHT
An NRCHA Hall of Fame horse, Katie Starlight (1993; Grays Starlight x Colonel Gunsmoke x Colonel Freckles) placed in the top 10 at the 1996 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and the 1997 NRCHA Maturity and Stallion Stakes. She won the 1998 NRCHA Hackamore Classic and the first-ever World’s Greatest Horseman® with Ted Robinson in 1999 and 2001. Those achievements, plus more as a non pro horse, allowed her to accumulate almost $130,000 in her show career.
Katie Starlight’s offspring earnings total $513,682.77. Her highest-earning offspring is Smartly Startstruck, by Very Smart Remedy. He was a finalist the 2020 NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman® and won the 2021 NRCHA Stallion Stakes Bridle Spectacular, both with NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider Todd Bergen.
Scooters Daisy Dukes
$1,092,257.31
(Dual Smart Rey x Scooters Playmate x Freckles Playboy) Owned by Aaron Cook High-earning Offspring: Scooter Kat (by Kit Kat Sugar) $606,723.00
Sheza Shinette
$871,037.70
(Shining Spark x Chicks And Chex x Smart Chic Olena) Owned by Holy Cow Performance Horses High-earning offspring: Reyzinette (by Dual Rey) $201,142.71
Shiney Tari
$1,056,490.53
(Shining Spark x Tarizana x Taris Catalyst) Owned by Aaron Ranch High-earning offspring: Shine Smarter (by WR This Cats Smart) $345,615.89
Lil Miss Shiney Chex
$786,609.69
(Shining Spark x Lil Miss Smarty Chex x Smart Little Lena) Owned by DT Horses High-earning offspring: Blind Sided (by Peptoboonsmal) $212,763.96
Shiners Diamond Girl
$680,447.86
(Shining Spark x Zans Diamond Jackie x Zans Diamond Sun) Owned by San Juan Ranch
(Soula Jule Star x Forever Sparked x Shining Spark) Owned by Teton Ridge High-earning offspring: Jule Smart Rey (by Dual Smart Rey) $189,256.61
Magical Lena
$581,614.64
(Little Lenas Legend x Swayback Magic x Early Tink) Owned by Joyce Pearson High-earning Offspring: Magicality (by Very Smart Remedy) $102,844.31
Smoke Time Tuck
$551,408.95
(Doc Tom Tucker x Ima Smoke x Mr Fools Smoke) High-earning Offspring: Tuckers Smart Cat Owned by Bar 11 Quarter Horses (by WR This Cats Smart) $167,115.36
Sparking Train
$550,044.18
(Shining Spark x Sister Train x Reminic)
High-earning Offspring: Bet He Sparks (by Bet Hesa Cat) $278,363.14
Miss Hickory Hill
$527,969.94
Docs Hickory x Whatyouthink x Son Of A Doc Owned by Robert Wiggins
High Earning Offspring: Call Me Mitch (by Metallic Cat) $448,341.38
Isabellena
$543,000
(Quejanaisalena x Safari Belle x Lil Safari Badger)
High-earning Offspring: Cuttin Wright Up (by Hes Wright On) $162,101.65
Katie Starlight
$513,682.77
(Grays Starlight x Colonel Gunsmoke x Colonel Freckles))
High-earning offspring: Smartly Starstruck (by Very Smart Remedy) $163,883.91
Shine Smarter
$504,340.93
(WR This Cats Smart x Shiney Tari x Shining Spark) High-earning offspring: Selvarey (by Dual Rey) $245,414.96
Two ways to APHA registration:
1. Lineage – If your AQHA horse has at least one APHA registered parent, your horse may be eligible for APHA registration REGARDLESS OF COLOR.
2. Markings – If your horse has two inches of solid white hair in the qualifying area (above the hock/knee & behind the eye)
Below are some of the APHA- registered sires & dams with competing foals :
• CATTY HAWK
• BADBOONARISING
• BROTHER JACKSON
• DANDY CAT
• DUAL REYISH
• GUNNATRASHYA
• HISSY CAT
• HYDRIVE CAT
• METALLIC MALICE
• METALLIC MASTERPIECE
• METALLIC REBEL
• ONE TIME ROYALTY
• REYZIN THE CASH
• SADIE THE CAT
• SHES TWICE AS SMOOTH
• SMOOTH AS A CAT
• SMOOTH TALKIN STYLE
• SPARKTILION
• STEVIE REY VON
• ZEZES PEPTO CAT
MEET THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Boyd Rice
President Weatherford, Texas
An active NRCHA member and fierce competitor since 2001, Boyd Rice made the finals at both the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and NCHA Futurity in 2002. By 2014, Boyd became the only rider in history to win the Open NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® and World’s Great Horseman® titles on the same horse, Oh Cay N Short. He’s an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider and NCHA Four Million Dollar Rider.
Ben Baldus Gainesville, Texas
Ben Baldus began showing horses at the age of 12. He moved to Texas to work alongside NRHA Professional and Hall-of-Famer Doug Milholland at the historic Waggoner Ranch. It was here that Ben began riding and training horses for National Reining Horse Association, NRCHA, Ranch Horse Association of America (RHAA) and American Quarter Horse Association.
Lance Johnston
Lindsay, California
Lance Johnston is an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider, having won multiple aged-event titles, including the 2019 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open and Intermediate Open. He holds an animal science degree from California Polytechnic State University.
Jake Telford
Caldwell, Idaho
Jake Telford began his career nearly 20 years ago as a professional rope horse trainer and team roping competitor and is now an NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider. From 2009–2011, Telford was the NRCHA’s highest money-earning rider.
Paul Bailey Vice President Sparta, Tennessee
Paul Bailey has been in the transportation/warehousing business for many years and serves as a Tennessee State Senator. The Bailey family supported the eastern reined cow horse community by producing the East Coast Reined Cow Horse Classic for many years. He and his wife, Amy, went into the NRCHA Hall of Merit in 2024.
Todd Bergen
Eagle Point, Oregon
Todd Bergen is the only rider to achieve Two Million Dollar earnings status in both NRCHA and the NRHA. He’s won multiple NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity®, Derby and Stakes Open Champion titles, as well as the NRHA Futurity Open Championship and the NRHA Derby.
Diane Edwards
Renton, Washington
Diane Edwards has deep roots in the reined cow horse industry. She’s a dedicated NRCHA competitor, with a proven track record in limited-age and horse-show event competition She serves as the Non Pro Committee chairperson in addition to her service on the Board of Directors.
Cayley Wilson
Rosston, Texas
Canadian horseman Cayley Wilson was elected to the NRCHA Board of Directors in 2019. Throughout his 20-year horse training career, Wilson has claimed several finalist spots at NRCHA premier events and collected numerous championship titles. He’s an AAAA NRCHA Judge and is the NRCHA Professionals Committee Chairperson.
Todd Crawford Secretary Blanchard, Oklahoma
Todd Crawford attended Findlay College in Ohio, graduating among the first class of students to complete the Bachelor of Science program established by legendary reining horse trainer Dale Wilkinson. Crawford achieved NRCHA Million Dollar Rider status in 2006, the same year he won the NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity® Open Championship. In 2011, he made history by becoming the NRCHA’s first $2 Million Rider.
Joe Carter Moore, Oklahoma
The official NRCHA Veterinarian, Joe Carter, DVM, was first elected to the Board of Directors in 2015. In 1984 he graduated from Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine with honors. In 1988, he established Oklahoma Equine Hospital to serve the greater Oklahoma City, Norman and Purcell areas.
Dan Roeser
Marsing, Idaho
Dan Roeser has been a consistent top NRCHA money-earning professional. For the past 20 years, he’s served on the Board of Directors for the Idaho Quarter Horse Association, Idaho Reined Cow Horse Association and NRCHA. He was also the driving force behind the NRCHA’s regional, affiliate, national and world championship programs, which has grown into the NRCHA Celebration of Champions.
Beverly Servi
Durango, Colorado
Beverly Servi is a retired CPA, a financial consultant and a long-term planner. Her roles in NRCHA cross all categories: breeder, owner, exhibitor and passionate member. Servi is a published writer and enjoys sharing her knowledge to help elevate the entire industry learn about the breeding business.
Trey Neal Treasurer Hometown, State
Trey Neal retired in 2013 from the banking and finance industry, though he remains an active consultant for financial services-related information technology projects. Neal joined the NRCHA Board of Directors as Treasurer in 2016. Fishing and horses are passions for Trey, and the multi-talented Texan is also a professional photographer.
Corey Cushing Weatherford, Texas
NRCHA Three Million Dollar Rider Corey Cushing began his show career in the reining horse industry, winning the 1999 NRHA Intermediate Open Futurity. He’s claimed nearly every major NRCHA event championship title multiple times and is an NRCHA Past President.
Jon Roeser
Kuna, Idaho
Jon Roeser has been training and showing horses for more than three decades and is an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider and Hall of Fame inductee. He’s served on the NRCHA Board of Directors, alongside his brother, Dan, for 20-plus years and is deeply committed to preserving the NRCHA tradition.
Jay McLaughlin
Amarillo, Texas
Jay McLaughlin earned his first NRCHA check in 1999, which led him to a lifelong career as an NRCHA Professional. McLaughlin is an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider and has earned numerous championship titles.
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Find up-to-date performance records for a stallion and its offspring, plus proven crosses reports, five-cross pedigree, and more to help you make the best breeding decisions.
NRCHA membership privileges will be suspended for the second offense of bad checks, per rule 1.1.6.2 and for non payment of debt to NRCHA Show Management or NRCHA Approved Show Management. Additionally, all amounts for advertising in the NRCHA publication, Reined Cow Horse News, are due and payable within 30 days of receipt.
Desert Spring Ranch, Queen Creek, AZ
Keetch Ranch, Waddell, AZ
Del Rey Paint & Qtr Horses/Aneka Schelbeck, Cotton Wood, CA
Bynum Farms/Blair Bynum, Palm City, FL
Donnie Boyd, Sarasota, FL
Robyn Bush, Visalia, CA
Marcy Campbell, Creston, CA
Pompeo Capezzone, Castrocielo 03030, ITALY
Riccardo Capezzone, Castrocielo 03030, ITALY
Cody Christensen, Heber City, UT
Tom Daughetee, Kemmerer, WY
Shad DeGiorgis, El Dorado Hills, CA
Laura Delfino, Martinez, CA
Pat Faitz, Lakeland, FL
Robert Frobose, Modesto, CA
Miguel Gonzalez, Miami, FL
Babcock Ranch/Jim Babcock, Sanger, TX
Brandon Johnson, Nebraska City, NE
A finance charge of 1.5% per month (18% APR) will be added to all past due amounts. Membership privileges shall be suspended on accounts greater than 90 days past due and this information will be published in Reined Cow Horse News. There will be a membership reinstatement fee of $75.
Current as of September 1, 2024
Bridgette Lanham, Eastover, SC
Thera Myers, Oxnard, CA
Steed Training/ Rick Steed, Okeechobee, FL
Jill Serena, Castaic, CA
Vernon Smith, Santa Maria, CA
Dream Cross/Susan Ray, TX
Lazy T Shamrock Ranch/ Terry Malarkey, Star, ID
Elizabeth Winkle, Sarasota, FL
Don Stockman, Dayton, TX
Kinsey Dodson, Cleburne, TX
Oasis Ranch/Pete & Marilyn Bowling Purcell, OK
Roy Hockensmith, Frankfort, KY
Brian & Cynthia Holthouse, San Juan Bautista, CA
Rita F. Ward, Canyon, TX
Darren Roberts, Kent, NY
Chris Anderson Marietta, OK
THE NEW INCENTIVE PROGRAM THAT WILL TRANSFORM THE SPORT OF REINED COW HORSE
DON’T MISS OUT ON THE HISTORIC PAYOUTS COMING TO THE NRCHA STALLION STAKES STARTING IN 2025.
NOMINATE NOW
Nominate your offspring to be eligible for the NEW Nominator purse. Don’t wait — visit nrcha.co/cow-horse-incentive to submit your nomination by November 15, 2024, for a onetime fee of $275 for horses foaled in 2019 through 2024.
COW HORSE INCENTIVE SUBSCRIBED STALLIONS
Find the most current list of subscribed stallions at nrcha.co/subscribed-stallions
• A LENA TIMES TWO
• A VINTAGE SMOKE
• ANNIES SMART CAT
• ARMANI CAT
• BADBOONARISING
• BAMA JELLY
• BAMACAT
• BET HE SPARKS
• BET HESA BOON
• BET HESA CAT
• BET HESA SHINER
• BOON TOO SUEN
• BOONIFIED
• BOONS REFLECTIONS
• BROTHER JACKSON
• GUNNABEBIGTIME
• GUNNATRASHYA
• HASHTAGS
• HAZARDOUZ MATERIAL
• HENDRIXX
• HERE COMES THE BOON
• CALL ME MITCH
• CANT KICK A PLAYBOY
• CARIBBEAN CAT
• CATOLENA CASHIN IN
• CATS ROYAL BOON
• CATTALOU
• CD DIAMOND
• HES WRIGHT ON
• HESA DUAL BET
• HICALIBER CAT
• HICKORY HOLLY TIME
• HIGH BROW CAT
• HIGH COST OF METAL
• HOTT ROD
• HOTTISH
• CHECK YER METAL
• COOL N HOT
• COUNTIN HOT CHECKS
• CR GOTCHA COVERED
• CR HES A TUFF ONE
• CRACKLIN KAT
• DANDY CAT
• DOC SEAS WHISKEY
• MR PLAYINSTYLISH
• MY PISTOLS HOTT
• NORTHERN METALLIC
• NOTHING BUT BLU
• NRR CAT KING COLE
• OFFERS ARE CHEAP
• ONCE IN A BLU BOON
• HOTTISH METAL
• KIT KAT SUGAR
• KREYZY HORSE
• LONE WOOLF
• MAGGIC MIKE
• MAGICAL VOODOO
• MAGICALITY
• MARKED FOR GREATNESS
• DUAL DELTA REY
• DUAL REYISH
• DUAL SMART REY
• DUALIN BLU MOON
• DYNAMITE DUNN IT
• FIDDLE AND STEEL
• GENUINE MASTERPIECE
• GOTTA GO GET IT
• ONE FINE VINTAGE
• ONE SHINEY METALLIC
• ONE TIME PEPTO
• ONE TIME ROYALTY
•ONE TIME UP NORTH
• PEPTOS
STYLIN TIME
• MC COWHAMMER
• MEGICIAN
• METALLIC CAT
• METALLIC CATTACK
• METALLIC CHROME
• METALLIC CHROME CAT
• METALLIC REBEL
• METALLIC REY MINK
• SHINERS VOODOO DR
• SHINEY OUTLAW
• SHINING SPARK
• SJR DIAMOND MIST
• SMART REYVOLUTION
• SMOKNHOLLYWOOD
• SMOOTH
• PG HEAVILY ARMED
• PHIL N DANGEROUS
• PLAIN CATTY
• PLAYGUN
• PRIDE AND JOYY
• PURE PEPTO
• QUAHADI
• REMINICAT
• REYS A SHINE
• REYZIN CANE
• METALLIC ROYAL MATE
• METALLIC UNO
• METALLICS MVP
• METELES CAT
• METILION
• MISTER MONTANA CHIC
TALKIN STYLE
• SNAPDRAGONS
• SNIPERR
• SPOTS HOTTIST
• STEVIE REY VON
• STINGS COLOR
• SUN UN DUN
• SWEET LIL PEPTO
• REYZIN THE CASH
• RICATO SUAVE
• RN HIGHBROW LENA
• ROCKIN W
• ROLLZ ROYCE
• ROO TO DO
• ROYAL FLETCH
• SADDLING AT SUNRISE
• SANNMAN
• SCOOTER KAT
• SWING WIDE
• TAGGLINE
• TEE BOONE
• TEN THIRTY
• THE ANIMAL
• THE BOON
• THE DANE GER ZONE
• THE REYL MCCOY
• THE ROYALTY
• THIRD EDGE
• THIS CATT SHINES
• THIS ONE TIME
• THIS ONE TIME CAT
• TIME TO GLO
• TOMCAT CHEX
• TRAVELIN JONEZ
• VERY BLACK MAGIC
• SEVEN S GRAND SLAM
• SF HOTTISH LUMI CAT
• SHADES OF REY
• SHINERS NICKLE
• WIND HER UP NIC
• WOODY BE TUFF
• WR THIS CATS SMART
• YOR THE ONE
• ZAK 34
NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY® OFFICIALS AND STAFF
Executive Director Emily Konkel
Director of Media & Communications Callie McCarthy-Boevers
