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International Horse Press - 2020 Year In Review Editor: Simona Diale Graphics: Chiara Milani Cover Photo: Bee Silva Photography
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A Salute to Matteo Bonzano Last year the reining community worldwide mourned the loss of the 19-year-old much loved young reiner.
Last year, the reining community lost 19 year old Matteo Bonzano… Matteo loved reining horses, the sport of reining and was an amazing team mate, friend, sportsman. The successful young reiner collected a number of victories both in NRHA and FEI competition. He represented Italy winning the
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FEI individual and team gold medals in 2016 and team bronze in 2018. In 2017 he went on to conquer the World Championship Young Riders individual silver and team gold but, above all, Matteo conquered the hearts of all those that knew him. After a long battle with cancer, he left us leaving a void difficult to fill.
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Photos by Bonaga Communication
Matteo & High Point Reiner, AKA “Ruffy’
“Ruffy, Ruffy, Ruffy....I really don't have words to describe him. He is outstanding and his heart is as big as the world!” —Matteo
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“It was a difficult moment for all the reining world,” said IRHA President, Roberto Cuoghi. “Matteo was a true champion and friend. He showed us all how strong he was, even in the most difficult moments of his illness.”
“…above all, Matteo conquered the hearts of all those that knew him.” A touching moment dedicated to Matteo during the 2020 BO Ranch Futurity.
A very emotional moment was dedicated to a young rider much loved in the worldwide reining community who left us much too soon: Matteo Bonzano. Once again Matteo’s smile filled the hearts and the evening in France. Ride high cowboy!
Ride High Cowboy! 6 • IHP - YEAR IN REVIEW •
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Casey Deary and Americasnexttopgun
2020 National Reining Breeders Classic Casey Deary Wins NRBC Open Championship with Americasnexttopgun 10 • IHP - YEAR IN REVIEW •
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Photos by Waltenberry WATCH THE INTERVIEW
Edited Press Release
Casey Deary's career sky-rocketed when he won the NRHA Open Futurity on Americasnextgunmodel. With the incredible mare, he accumulated nearly $300,000 in earnings, so it was a poignant moment when he rode one of her colts, Americasnexttopgun, owned by Jody Puno of Puno Performance Horses, to win the NRBC Open Championship on Saturday evening.
Photo © Carolyn Simancik
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he crowd was with Deary and Americasnexttopgun, by NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Walla Walla Whiz, from the first flawless stop. When the score was announced - a 226.5 - the crowd erupted. "I knew I had enough horse to win it, so I showed him for what I knew he could do and made sure to not overdo it," Deary shared. "I loved his mother. She's the one who changed my career. This horse is amazing and is maybe the most athletic thing I have ever ridden. There is not a weak spot on him, so I'm grateful to finally put it all together." While elated about the win, and accompanying check of $75,000, Deary admitted he was exhausted as well. He was riding three horses in the finals, and his friend Jordan Larson had catch rode another of his horses. With Americasnexttopgun's full sibling, Americas Supermodel, Deary tied for the Reserve Championship. His third entry, Gunnabeabrightstar, finished twelfth, while Larson and Lonely At The Top tied for eighth.
Casey Deary and Americas Supermodel
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Jason Vanlandingham and A Vintage Smoke
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2020 NATIONAL REINING BREEDERS CLASSIC
Ruben Vandorp and Spooks Gotta Crush
"It was a very busy evening," Deary said. "I have an exceptional group of people I work with, from my vets and my farrier. My wife is incredibly supportive. My owners are amazing. I thank Jordan for riding my other horse. I don't think there is anyone better in the business than him to step on one and immediately figure out how to ride it." Deary and Americas Supermodel, owned by Whitmarsh Arcese Partnership, marked a 224.5 to tie for Reserve, worth $41,000. Co-Reserve Champions were Jason Vanlandingham and A Vintage Smoke, who are
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former NRBC Champions and coming off of a big win at the NRHA Derby. A Vintage Smoke, by A Sparkling Vintage out of Lady Smoke Peppy, is owned by Diane Mesmer .
Ruben Vandorp Wins NRBC Open Level 3 Championship with Spooks Gotta Crush Competing as the last rider in the NRBC Open finals was Ruben Vandorp who tried not to follow any of the class. “I knew what was winning it, but I didn't know how deep it was. I only watched the very first horse go," he shared. It must have been
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the right strategy as Vandorp and his horse Spooks Gotta Crush gave it their all scoring a 224 which secured the Level (L)3 Championship and tied for fourth in the L4. All totaled, the night's earnings came to $46,321. Vandorp purchased Spooks Gotta Crush (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Megas Sugar Baby) from Trey Poole as a 2-year-old. "I made the NRHA Futurity finals on him, and won Tulsa on him. He's just been a blast. Last year I had some health issues and Jason Vanlandingham was kind enough to show him for me and they made the Open Derby finals and were
second in the Shootout at The Run For A Million," Vandorp said. "He's just been a great horse and is part of the family. We love him."
Dalton Vanlandingham Wins NRBC Level 2 and 1 Open on Ruff Little Whiz Dalton Vanlandingham piloted Ruff Little Whiz, a colt by the memorable stallion Not Ruf At All and owned by his father, to a score of 220.5 to win the L1 and 2 Championships earning checks totaling $11,402. "When I ran in there, I could tell he was locked in from the time I ran into the gate. He's a little trickier horse
Photo © Carolyn Simancik
Dalton Vanlandingham and Ruff Little Whiz
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2020 NATIONAL REINING BREEDERS CLASSIC
to get locked in, but he definitely showed up for the finals," Vanlandingham shared. "He was super in the preliminary round. I had a little late lead change, and that kept us from making the L4 finals, but it is what it is." Dalton has ridden Ruff Little Whiz off and on since the colt was two years old. "I started him as a twoyear-old, and he was a little, tiny thing. We actually nicknamed him 'Little Man.' Ever since the beginning he has been a nice, fun horse to ride. Dad thought he was a superstar going into his three-year-old year, but he got hurt so he sat out from the NRHA Futurity and Derby," Dalton shared. "So this is his first major event."
Ann Salmon-Anderman and Ruf Lil Joe
Ann Salmon-Anderman and Ruf Lil Joe produced earners of more than $406,000, Take Open Prime Time Championship including standouts such as Patriot and Ruf Lil Ann Salmon-Anderman and her homegrown mare Ruf Lil Joe (Lil Joe Cash x Dunit A Lil Ruf) took home the Open Prime Time Championship. Anderson and the mare marked a 221.5 (includes handicap) in the finals to take the title and also tied for fourth in the L2, bringing total earnings for the night to $5,061. Anderman's blue hen mare Dunit A Lil Ruf has
Magnum. Almost all of her offspring have been colts, so when Ruf Lil Joe was born, Ann and her husband Monte decided to keep her. "We had seven babies, and this was the only filly. I felt it would be terrible if we ever lost Dunit A Lil Ruf and not had one of her babies to continue the line," she said. "This mare has already had two foals, and I love them." F
Marie Kleiner and This Gun Works Win NRBC Development Division The $10,000-added Development Division at the NRBC adds another opportunity to win money for those horses who might not have as much show experience for no additional entry fee. The Development Division is decided in the preliminary round, and Marie Kleiner with This Gun Works took first in the division with a 217.5. The win was worth $6,101. "He is a 4-year-old, and this was his first major event," Kleiner said of the colt by Gunners Tinseltown out of Reminic At Work. "I have been riding him with Craig Schmersal for the last four months. I didn't really know what to expect going in, but he was super hooked and he turned real nice. We did have an underturn the first direction which was totally my fault, but after that he was really nice."
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#Open
NRHA Six Million Dollar Rider #Andrea Fappani Leaves his Mark in Tulsa Friday night's Open Classic Challenge and $25k Open featured 17 exemplary horses. Fappani made the most of it winning the $25k Open on Modern Gun, taking second in the Open Classic Challenge where he rode Platinum Vintage to the win!
Photo © Carolyn Simancik
Modern Gun (Gunners Special Nite x Taris Modern Design), a former NRBC Open Champion owned by MS Stables, had $213.000 LTE prior to NRBC where he earned $7,166. For Fappani, the $25k Open was a chance to show the stallion for good money one more time. "We had a bobble in the go round, so we missed the finals. We did the same thing at the Derby, so I just wanted to make it up. I know this is not as big as winning the NRBC Classic, but I wanted another run under our belt. He stepped up, even with having a run in the preliminaries yesterday," Fappani shared. "It gave me the answer that I had him ready, it was just that bobble that kept him out."
Platinum Vintage (A Sparkling Vintage x Starjac Miss) is owned by Silver Spurs Equine. "This horse has been on the top of my list of all-time favorite horses for a long time. Todd Bergen showed him early on, and I've loved this horse since I've had him. The plan this year was to go for The Run For A Million. We finished third last year and that did not settle very well with me. It was one little rider mistake that cost me, so we were so excited to go back. When that went away, we were disappointed, but we decided to bring him to the Open here at NRBC because it's always one of our favorites."
Fappani also rode Thee American Dream (Magnum Chic Dream x Gunner Git Ya Dun), owned by Morris Kulmer, to the $61,000-added Hollywoodstinseltown Open Futurity CoChampionship: The duo scored a 224 to tie for the win of the Open L4, worth $12,720. "We didn't know how tough he was going to be, but this was his first outing and it turned out pretty special," he said.
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Indy Roper and Spooks Show Time
Indy Roper Wins NRBC Non Pro Level 4 Championship on Spooks Show Time
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oper and Spooks Show Time marked a 221.5 in the finals, but had drawn up early and had to wait through many more runs. "I just got out of everyone's way and went back to the trailer. There were so many nice horses in the finals and no way to know what could happen," she said.
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Their score held, and Roper received several great prizes, including a two-horse trailer from Twin Cities South, a saddle from Kyle Tack, and numerous other awards. She also was presented with a check for $30,000. Roper was quick to give credit to her trainer Marco
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Ricotta. "I'm so appreciative of him. He worked very hard and had my horse so prepared," she said. "This was a bonus year for us with 7-year-olds added to Derby competition. My horse had some injuries last year and we gave him the time off he needed. Eventually he will be going to home to Roper Farms and are pretty excited to have him back home soon." For Ricotta, watching Roper show was even more nerve-wracking than competing himself. "I get really nervous because it's a lot of pressure on me too," he shared. "I was very proud of Indy. She's a dream non pro rider, super talented, has a lot of feel, and is very determined in the show pen. Her horse is also very talented and really good-minded. He doesn’t require a lot of tuning which makes it easy for me to just keep him healthy and happy. "
Addisyn Schmersal Takes NRBC Non Pro Level 4 Reserve Championship on Face The Attitude Three years ago, Craig Schmersal and Face The Attitude (Pale Face Dunnit x Miss Lil Addy Tude) won the NRHA Futurity L4 Open Championship. This year, the great mare returned to the show pen, this time with Addisyn Schmersal. Though not a long-time team, they executed an awesome run to mark a 221 winning the NRBC Non Pro L4 Reserve Championship as well as the L3 and L2 titles taking home $29,500. "It was my third time showing her. She stayed with me and was really good," Schmersal said. "I felt a lot of pressure because of how much she's won, and it was a little more stressful because I haven't ridden
Addisyn Schmersal and Face The Attitude
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2020 NATIONAL REINING BREEDERS CLASSIC
Caroline Buchanan and Smokin Paleface
her as much. I didn't know what was going to happen, but she was really good and I'm excited I get to show her." The talented mare returned to the Schmersal's barn following the NRHA Derby. "I had no idea we were bringing her back. She showed up at the Derby. I saw her get out of the trailer and asked what we were doing with her," 14-year-old Schmersal explained. "I showed her in Denver and then we brought her here." The duo had a great NRBC from beginning to end, marking a 220 in the preliminary round, pocketing close to $4,000. "I thank my parents for allowing me to show this mare and helping me get to where I am today. I also thank my brothers for supporting me," she said.
qualified for the NRBC Non Pro L1, 2, and 3 finals and closed as Non Pro L1 Champions, tie second in the L2, and tie third in the L3 bringing home $7,077. "I'm pretty excited. The run felt really good. He's been working well for me this past month. My game plan was to be clean and try to make the same run I did in the preliminaries, fixing my mistakes," she said. The duo came off of another big win: The Build Ford Tough AQHA Youth World Reining Championship. "When I ran at the World I went in a little slow, so this time I ran in fast and he felt really good," she said. "This horse is really easy and always takes care of me. He is such a sweet horse." The 16-year-old rides with Craig Schmersal. "It's awesome that Addisyn and I both won," she added.
David McGee and Knaughtybyknature Win NRBC Non Pro Prime Time With a score of 215.5, David McGee and Knaughtybyknature (Magnum Chic Dream x Princess In Diamonds) won not only the NRBC Non Pro Prime Time title, they also finished reserve in the L3, and taking home $9,312. F
Caroline Buchanan Wins Non Pro Level 1 Championship with Smokin Paleface Caroline Buchanan had never competed at the NRBC prior to this year. She and her horse Smokin Paleface (Paleface Dunnit x Lost In Tinseltown)
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David McGee and Knaughtybyknature
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2020 NRHA DERBY Photos by Waltenberry | Edited Press Release
2020 NRHA Derby Jason Vanlandingham and A Vintage Smoke Win Level 4 Open Championship at 2020 NRHA Derby Presented by Markel. A Vintage Smoke blew into the Jim Norick Coliseum during the Level (L)4 Open Finals of the NRHA Derby presented by Markel. At the reins was his trainer, NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Jason Vanlandingham. The duo had already won two of the three largest reining events: The 2018 NRHA Futurity and the 2019 NRBC. The only accolade missing from A Vintage Smoke’s resume was the NRHA Open Derby presented by Markel Championship.
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he pair made up for it wowing the judges with one flawless maneuver after the other. When the score—a 227.5—was announced, the applause was deafening. “I was pretty nervous, to the point where I had to get with the good Lord and do some praying because my confidence wasn’t there. A big feeling of relief came over me, and I just
told myself to put my confidence in the right place,” he shared. “We went in there about as hard as he could go, and this 5-year-old stallion stopped huge the first time. We were last in the set so there was no ground left, but he was locked in, and I was very proud of him.” The win came with a big check for $60,000, with 5% going to nominator Karl Hapcic.
Thousands of exhibitors, horses, and spectators travel to Oklahoma City each year to compete, watch, and shop at the NRHA Derby. Hosting an event of this caliber requires support from a remarkable organization, and Markel Insurance, a dedicated NRHA Corporate Partner for over 25 years, stepped up to the task extending their partnership and deeper level of commitment as the NRHA Derby Presenting Sponsor. With over 50 years of expertise insuring horses and horse-related businesses, Markel pioneered many of the equine coverage options available today. “It seems like only yesterday when the partnership began with Markel and NRHA,” said Frank Costantini, Markel’s Director of Western Disciplines. “Twenty-five years speaks to the strength and commitment of both organizations, and most importantly the loyalty of the members, whose support has allowed the relationship to grow to where it is today.” Markel also proudly sponsors the NRHA Markel Insurance Futurity Sales and is the official provider of NRHA Equine Insurance not only in the U.S., but worldwide.
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WATCH THE RUN
Jason Vanlandingham and A Vintage Smoke
2020 NRHA DERBY
Nathan Piper and Patriot
Photo © McKinnon Larcombe
Reid and nominated by Toyon Ranch. Having gone head-to-head with Vanlandingham and A Vintage Smoke since the start of their competitive careers, they also split the L4 Open Championship at the 2019 NRBC. They left OKC with a $47,572 paycheck.
Kole Price Wins Level 3 Open Championship at NRHA Derby Presented by Markel
Competing in the first section of the Finals, Kole Price knew he and the 5-year-old stallion Gunna Stop Reserve Championship honors were for Nathan would have to catch the judges’ attention quickly — Piper and 5-year-old stallion Patriot (Smart Spook x and that they did. “He stopped big and backed up Dunit A Lil Ruf), owned by Shannon and Hershel really pretty, and then just stood there. He was super
Kole Price and Gunna Stop
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hooked up, stylish, and quiet,” Price shared. “In the last stop, he dragged his butt, and it was just like how we prepared. He was incredible.” The judges agreed, awarding a big score of 222.5 that held on for the win of the L3 Open, worth $23,477. It was a special win for Price and owner Amber Gokey. Ali, Amber’s sister who owned the colt, was diagnosed with ALM, an aggressive form of leukemia. Unfortunately, Ali recently succumbed to the disease. “People don’t realize that horses can do strange things for people, and I witnessed that through Ali. It is so much more than what we see, and this horse definitely helped her keep going. She loved this horse, and I think she kept fighting for him. I honestly feel like Ali was up there with me when I was riding,” Price shared. “You do this for the love of the horse, and Ali was a perfect example of that. She loved everything about him.”
Arno Honstetter and Special Made Whiskey Win Level 2 Open Championship Arno Honstetter and Special Made Whiskey (Gunners Special Nite x Starlight Acres), owned by Gordon Robinson and nominated by Dean Latimer, were last in the draw of the L4 Open Derby Finals. After scoring a 220.5, they took the L2 Open Championship and placed in the L4 and 3, totaling $34,676.
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Arno Honstetter and Special Made Whiskey
Total entries 2019: 2,750 2020: 3,301 138 more unique riders than in 2019
Combined payout for Open and Non Pro Derby $1,012,581 Open Derby payout: $657,961 Non Pro Derby payout: $354,620
1,433 stalls were filled 156 more horses in Derby and ancillary classes than in 2019
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2020 NRHA DERBY
The Stats Open Age Group
#of Section 1 Finalists
#of Section 2 Finalists
4 5 6 7
23 18 16 8
9 11 9 9
Total
65
38
Non Pro Age Group
#of Section 1 Finalists
#of Section 2 Finalists
4 5 6 7
10 14 21 9
10 9 8 6
Total
54
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“It was nice,” Honstetter said. “I didn’t get my stops as nice as I wanted, but the first threefourths of my pattern was really nice, and he tried really hard. He’s been a good horse and shown for a lot of people—I’m very thankful I have him; he is a really talented horse.” Claiming reserve honors was Cody Sapergia who piloted the 5-year-old stallion Chicowhiz (Smart Chic Olena x Whizicle), owned by LaRizzi Corporation and nominated by Equine Plus, to a score of 218.5. The duo also qualified for the L3 and L4 finals, bringing total earnings to $20,230.
Torri Sims Wins Level 1 Open Championship on Codalicious It was only the second time that Torri Sims had shown the 5-year-old mare Codalicious (Electric Code x Custom Easy Breezy) owned and nominated by Loren Booth. In the first section of finals, the pair marked a 214.5, score that held up to win the L1 Open title, as well as $4,263. “She’s a spectacular horse. I’ve been riding her a couple months now,” Sims explained. “Tracer Gilson told me to just go show her, have fun, and leave it all out there. I pushed on the gas and she was right there with me trying to be the best she could be. I worked for her owner Loren for about a year. She’s the most spectacular individual I’ve ever met and I so appreciate her.”
Torri Sims and Codalicious
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2020 NRHA DERBY
Ann Salmon Anderman and Maximum Mag
Ann Salmon Anderman Wins Prime Time Open on Maximum Mag The Prime Time Open Derby Championship was also decided during the preliminary round, and it was Ann Salmon Anderman and her horse Maximum Mag who emerged victorious. The pair marked a 221.5 (including handicap) to win the division and a check for $2,205. Anderman later marked a 214.5 during the L4 Open Finals. This placed her in the money in the L 4–2, and Shine x TH Great Big Chex), nominated by Robert Sutherlands and owned by Texas Power Ranch she pocketed an additional $6,450. Tell Edgmon and Shiney Chexy Chic (Shine Chic LLC, placed second with a 213.5 worth $2,901. F
Photo © McKinnon Larcombe
Fernando Salgado Wins Bob’s Custom Saddles Novice Horse Open Derby with Gotta Shiney Peso
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The Bob’s Custom Saddles Novice Horse Open Derby gives derby-age horses that haven’t won a lot of money early in their careers a chance to expand their earnings. The division title is decided during the preliminary round of the NRHA Derby presented by Markel, and it was Fernando Salgado and Gotta Shiney Peso (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Bee Shine), owned by Pedro Hernandez, who were victorious.
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WATCH THE RUN
Indy Roper and Spooks Show Time
NRHA Non Pro Derby Presented by Markel Spooks Show Time Slides Indy Roper to the Level 4 Non Pro Championship Indy Roper knew her performance on Spooks Show Time (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Dolittle Lena) was good, and when the score, a 222.5, was announced, the cheers were resounding. Roper had drawn second in the Level (L)4 Non Pro Finals, meaning she had to sweat through 31 runs before she was declared the winner of her first Non Pro Derby Championship, several great prizes, and a check for $18,800.
“I’
m speechless. When we started this, winning the Derby was on our bucket list. My dad and I sat down and wrote down what we wanted to accomplish, and this was it. I’ve had many ups and downs in that arena, and this is definitely the pinnacle,” Roper said. “Tonight my horse ran in, stopped good, and backed up nice. We got through the turns, and then I knew I could push him hard. His claim to fame is his stops, so the final three stops showed what he could do.” Roper’s father, Tim, purchased the horse nominated by Bobby Lewis in 2018 from NRHA Two Million Dollar Owner Rancho Oso Rio. “Andrea and Tish Fappani encouraged us to try him. I liked his demeanor because he’s fun to be around, and he’s smooth to ride,” Roper
shared. Although Raymond has resided in Arizona with trainer Marco Ricotta, Roper keeps several reining horses at her home in Indiana. “I’m fortunate that we have some reiners at home, and that’s how I stayed in riding shape. Plus, Marco does a great job preparing my horses and I thank him and his team,” she said. “I thank my mom and dad, Tim and Linda Roper, and my fiancé, Trent Sidabras. I have a whole cheering crowd back in Indiana.” With a 220 score, Kim Muehlstaetter took the L4 Non Pro Reserve Championship and $12,758 on her 6-year-old stallion Spooks Grand Slam (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Shiney Diamond Lady), owned by Kim and her husband, NRHA Professional Martin Muehlstaetter, and nominated by Bobby Lewis.
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2020 NRHA DERBY
Samantha Smith and Drinkin Moonshine Take Level 3 Non Pro Derby Championship
Samantha Smith and Drinkin Moonshine
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With a score of 215, Samantha Smith and Drinkin Moonshine (Shine Chic Shine x Wimpy Little Girl), nominated by Peter Morgan, clinched the L3 Championship and finished sixth in the L4, bringing their total earnings to $21,116. “I feel pretty good right now knowing I won the Level 3. This horse is only 4 years old, and this is the first real major event I’ve taken him to, so I’m really excited for the future,” Smith said. “He has so much ability.” Drinkin Moonshine was actually purchased for her father, NRHA Million Dollar Owner Lance Griffin. “He bought him for himself, and Martin Larcombe showed him for us at the Futurity. When my dad’s back got hurt, I got to show him. I’m not complaining,” she said with a laugh. “I thank my mom and dad. I thank Martin and his family. I especially thank my husband, Daryl, and my son, Hank, who’s my lucky charm. He’s here and we won.” There was a two-way tie for reserve, with a 214 score, in the L3 Non Pro between Addisyn Schmersal and McKinnon Larcombe. Schmersal rode Black Gun Face (Black Face Dunnit x Blazing In Black), owned by
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Hickory Creek Ranch LLC and nominated by Ginger Schmersal. Addyson also qualified for the L2 and Youth finals, bringing her earnings for the night to $15,108. Larcombe’s entry, Gunners Bar Fly (Gunner x Blonde At The Bar), is owned by her aunt Shauna Larcombe and was nominated by McQuay Stables. The pair qualified for the L4 and Youth finals, for earnings of $13,820.
Performance Horses. They’re all so supportive and have helped me get where I am. Casey has been the absolute best coach there is. Thank you to my parents for never giving up on me and allowing me to follow my dreams,” she said. Earning the L1 Reserve Co-Championship were Giorgia Medows and Rachel Tillman with a 212.5. Medows piloted Isnt She Perfect (Walla Walla Whiz x Miss Silver Gun), a 5-year-old mare owned by her mother, Amy, and nominated by Madison Gustin Takes Levels 2 and 1 Tamarack Ranch, Tillman rode Benjamin Sprite Non Pro Derby Championships on (Custom Crome x Whiz Jewels), a 6-year old Win My Cash With owner Madison Gustin at the reins, the 5- owned by Kelly Tillman and nominated by Bahn year-old mare Win My Cash (Lil Joe Cash x Win Quarter Horses. My Shine), nominated by Carluccio Orsi, won the L2 and L1 Non Pro Derby Championships with a 214.5 score and a check totaling $12,638. It was a first derby win for 17-year-old Madison, as well as her first derby. “I’m on cloud nine. This is a dream come true,” she said. “She’s been pretty nervous recently, so I just went in hoping for her to stay calm, have a clean run, and improve from the first go. She was perfect for me and let me take her. We ran a little harder, and it was a lot of fun.” Gustin has ridden with Casey Deary since she was 8 years old. “I thank Madison Gustin & Win My Cash everyone at Deary
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2020 NRHA DERBY
Sam Flarida and Hollywooddirtysecret
feel like you can do anything in the world, and he gives his all every time.” Sam is the son of NRHA Six Million Dollar Rider Shawn Flarida. “My dad knew I was ready, so when it was time to show he just said to have fun and told me we were going to do well no matter what,” the 17year-old said. “I thank my whole family for everything and the whole Shawn Flarida Reiners group.” Sam Flarida Wins Youth Non Pro Jennifer Neudorf and Shining In Town Championship With (Hollywoodstinseltown X Shine Ann) finished Hollywooddirtysecret Last to compete in the second section of the Non Pro second in the Youth Non Pro and fifth in the L4, for Derby finals Sam Flarida and his 5-year-old gelding total earnings of $8,665. Hollywooddirtysecret (Hollywoodstinseltown x Michael Garnett Wins Masters Non Pro Maximum RPM), nominated by Patricia Duque, Title With Hollywood Nites closed their run with a 219.5 score to win the Youth Non Pro and enough to tie for third in the L4 taking Michael Garnett and his 7-year-old stallion Hollywood Nites (Gunners Special Nite x Dun It For home a $10,651 paycheck. “This feels really good. I felt like I let him down Chex) took the Master’s Non Pro win with a 211.5 last year in the finals, and this year we really felt (including handicap). They also placed in the L4 together. This is his first time showing in a full finals, for total earnings of $2,580. “Any time you can year. I’m so proud of him for coming back. He win anything down here, you need to feel pretty feels better than he ever has, and he seems happy fortunate,” he shared. “My little horse was pretty good and healthy,” Flarida shared. “We’ve had him tonight. He beat me on one stop and kind of set up, since he was a yearling, and I’ve always had a but other than that he showed pretty well.” connection with him. He was always the one that Garnett has owned Hollywood Nites since the colt would come to me and stuff like that, so we’ve was 3 years old. He was purchased from Cardinal Hill always had something there. This horse gives you Training Center, who nominated the horse. “I started a special feeling about yourself. He makes you showing him as a 4-year-old, and I think he’s won
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2020 NRHA DERBY
Michael Garnett and Hollywood Nites
Tami Nelson Wins Prime Time Non Pro Derby Championship on Mr Masota Star Tami Nelson piloted her Mr Masota Star (Wimpys Little Step x Cee Another Masota) nominated by George and Carol Bell, to a 215.5 (with handicap) to win the Prime Time Championship. “He was amazing everywhere. My game plan was just go run hard and not make any mistakes. He did what I asked and was perfect,” Nelson said. The pair also finished well in L2 and 3 earning $9,673. Francesca Sternberg took reserve honors with a 214.5 (with handicap) on her Spooks Gotta Lena (Spooks Gotta Whiz x Dolittle Lena), nominated by Bobby Lewis. The pair also placed in the L4 and 3 to win $10,842. F
Adam Donahue Wins Bob’s Custom Saddles Novice Horse Non Pro Derby on Not Ruf pretty close to $100,000 now. He’s been a nice horse,” Garnett shared. “My goal here was to make the Level 4 finals, which we did, so I’m pretty happy. Tying for reserve with a 210 score (including handicap) were Tamra Kyle on KR Smart Dreamer (Magnum Chic Dream x Smart Shiney Lena) and Frederick Christen on Blonde Ambishen (Shiners Voodoo Dr x Relaxin With A Bud).
The Bob’s Custom Saddle Novice Horse Non Pro Derby division debuted in the 2019 NRHA Derby presented by Markel. It was a hit with exhibitors and brought back for this year’s event. The 2020 non pro division champion was decided during the preliminary round with Adam Donahue and Not Ruf (Not Ruf At All x Kays Freckles) taking win and $4,351 with a 216.5. That score also qualified the pair for the finals of the Non Pro Derby in L4–3 and Prime Time. Tabitha Sternberg Allen and Holly Trashya (Gunnatrashya x Hickorys Holly Cee), owned by Francesca Sternberg, took reserve honors with a 215 score winning $2,648.
Tami Nelson and Mr Masota Star
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WATCH THE RUN
Andrea Fappani and All Bettss Are Off
Photos by Waltenberry Edited Press Release
2020 NRHA Futurity For the first time in NRHA history, the L4 Open Futurity Champion won a quarter-million dollars during the MS Diamonds TX L4 Open Finals. The NRHA Futurity boasted a record $1,033,530 in added money for the Open and CINCH Non Pro Futurity combined, thanks in large part to NRHA Futurity Challenge sponsors and the NRHA Nomination Program.
Andrea Fappani Wins the $250,000 Level 4 Open Championship With All Bettss Are Off Achieving scores of 220 in the preliminaries, 220.5 in the L4 Semi-Finals presented by Not Ruf At All and Tamarack Ranch, and finally a 225 in the MS Diamonds TX L4 Open Finals, Fappani accomplished his goal of steadily building
momentum toward winning the title. With a precise and powerful performance, NRHA Six Million Dollar Rider Andrea Fappani rode All Bettss Are Off to a score of 225, which earned the prestigious championship – his fourth Open Futurity title — and a quarter-million dollara. Owned, bred and nominated by Arcese Quarter Horses USA, All Bettss Are Off is by NRHA Twelve
Fappani dedicated his win to Eleuterio Arcese of Arcese Quarter Horses. “Mr. Arcese said it would be a dream come true for him to win another one. He has been such a big player, and I really want to dedicate this to him. I’ve got a huge group of people who support me and I want to thank everybody.”
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2020 NRHA FUTURITY
Brian Bell and Gunnabebigtime
career, including the NRHA Futurity, Derby, and NRBC, and the win helped push Wimpys Little Chic to NRHA Million Dollar Dam status. Having three horses out of his Scottsdale, Arizonabased program secure top 10 finishes in the Open Futurity was a proud achievement for Fappani. “I enjoy all the other Million Dollar Sire Gunner and out of Hall of Fame shows, but the young horses are why I wake up in the Inductee Wimpys Little Chic. The outstanding morning. To come to the Futurity and show is why I mare won more than a half-million dollars in her do what I do,” he said. Fappani chose All Bettss Are Off from a group of prospects and said the horse stood out to him from the beginning. “He’s super-talented,” he said. “He’s a little different than what I’m used to and I think that pushed me. He was so talented. I really had to push myself to adapt to him rather than ask him to adapt to me. We had a great group of horses, but I think because we were home so much, we were able to prepare them really well. I told Tish, ‘I think I’m set up to do as good as I’ve ever done at the Futurity, so I think I’m just going to enjoy it.’” Brian Bell and Gunnabebigtime (Gunnatrashya x Big Time Jazzy) owned and nominated by Tami MS Diamonds TX, Official Diamond Jeweler of NRHA, presented the L4 Open Champion rider and the owner Nelson scored a 224.5 for the Reserve of the winning horse with custom-made handcrafted Championship. The pair marked a 223.5 in the first NRHA Futurity Open Championship rings. Each L4 Open finalist owner was presented a commemorative round and a 224.5 L4 Open Semi-Finals presented pin from MS Diamonds TX during last night’s rider by Not Ruf At All and Tamarack Ranch, topping the introductions. composite score rankings with a 448.
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2020 NRHA FUTURITY
Sebastian Petroll Wins L3 and 2 Open Championships Riding Dunit The Walla Way Sebastian Petroll says he’s grateful to show a horse with as much try as Dunit The Walla Way (Walla Walla Whiz x Dunit The Gunner Way), owned and nominated by Ellen Lloyd Cummins. Together, thanks to their 218.5 score, they won both the L3 and L2 Open Championships and finished 12th in the L4 for combined total earnings of $53,879. “We bought her mother several years ago,” he said. “Her owner and I both showed her. She has
a heart so big and I don’t know how it fits into her little body. She is so kind, talented and always wants to be with you. You can count on her 100 percent of the time and mentally she is just very special.” Petroll is also thankful for owner, Cummins, who has been a client with him for more than a decade. “She’s just been amazing, a pleasure to work with and very important to our program. We can only do this because of all our great owners,” he added. “Also, my wife Melanie rode this horse for big stretches during her 2-year-old year. Without her, I couldn’t do this.”
Sebastian Petroll and Dunit The Walla Way
Dallas Cunningham and RFR Voodoos Fuego
expected, but the run in the finals was really good,” he said. ““He's honest and such special show horse. Duane Latimer started riding him and then passed the reins to me to show at the SWRHA Futurity where we claimed reserve in the L1 and 2. I would like to thank Duane, the owner, the team at XCS Ranch, my wife and daughter, and my familyin Uruguay.” Originally from Uruguay, Nieves spent 10 years in Brazil where he started riding Level 1 Open Co-Champions Dallas Cunningham rode RFR Voodoos Fuego reining horses before moving to the USA where he (Shiners Voodoo Dr x Show N Tag), owned and has worked for Latimer for a year and a half. nominated by Peter Smith, to share top honors in the NRHA Futurity L1 Open, and tie for second in the L2 and 3 for a $24,348 payday. “He’s a super nice horse. We started him as a 2-yearold and right away I thought he was awesome, I felt he was really special,” Cunningham said. “I love this horse, so I was really looking forward to this show. I’m just dang glad we’re here: I went from being a bull riding, team roping, colt starter to doing this just by watching [Andrea] Fappani’s videos. I’ve got to thank that guy because he’s changed my career.” Rodrigo Nieves has never made the finals at the NRHA Futurity, but he qualified all three of his entries. He piloted Tagin Stiletto Chics (Gunners Special Nite x Stiletto Tag), owned and nominated by Jennifer Marley, to a 217.5 to tie for the L1 title, and finish in a three-way tie for the L2 Reserve. “We came here, and the first two runs weren’t like we Rodrigo Nieves and Tagin Stiletto Chics
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2020 NRHA FUTURITY
Shawn Flarida and Whizsicle Win NRHA Open Prime Time Futurity NRHA Six Million Dollar Rider Shawn Flarida rode Whizsicle (SG Frozen Enterprize x Miss Whizzletown), nominated by Jenny Ricotta and owned by Arcese Quarter Horses USA, to the top of the Open Prime Time with a 219.5. The duo tied for eighth place in the L4, bringing total earnings to $30,932. Flarida, age 51, remarked that was the first
time in 25 or more years that he’s been eligible to compete in a division other than the Open L4. “I love to show,” Flarida said, “So having another avenue to win money is neat. This is just a really nice horse. I had a little bit of trouble kind of hooking up with him at the beginning of the year but he’s coming on and getting strong and finding his pace. He’s got such a great brain. And he’s so pretty in the way he moves and lopes.” F
Shawn Flarida and Whizsicle
Flarida thanked Whizsicle’s owner, Mr. Arcese, a man he credits for having owned several of the greatest horses he has had the privilege to ride during his career— Gunnatrashya, Wimpys Little Chic and Walla Walla Whiz. “He’s contributed so much to the sport for so many years.” 44 • IHP - YEAR IN REVIEW •
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2020 NRHA FUTURITY
Mandy McCutcheon and Shining At Nite Slide to the NRHA CINCH Non Pro Futurity Championship NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Mandy McCutcheon rode her home-raised and trained gelding Shining At Nite (Gunners Special Nite x A Shining Sidekick), owned by Tom and Mandy McCutcheon and nominated by Mandy, to earn the coveted CINCH Non Pro payday of $60,000 with a 221.5 score.
“T
WATCH THE RUN his has just been an exceptional family of horses for us. [Shining At Nite] has a full brother that Carlee made the Level 4 Futurity Finals on when she was 12, and she took her brother’s record of being the youngest Level 4 finalist,” McCutcheon said. “There’s another one that Kathy Thompson used to show that’s just been a phenomenal show horse. The full siblings and now Shining At Nite have just been great, great horses. They just go in there and try every time to be a good show horse. He’s shown well every time I’ve shown him and here, every maneuver I asked him to do he just stayed hooked up. He was very good. Once he ran through the gate he just said, ‘Okay, whatever you want me to do.’” “Debbie Brown trained him some as a 2-year-old, Mandy won her first NRHA Futurity in 1993 on Trent Harvey trained him some, Cade trained him Hollywoods Striker. The 2020 NRHA CINCH Non Pro some, Tom trained him some. Everybody played a Futurity marks her 10th NRHA Futurity crown part in getting me where I am and that’s really been my whole career and I’m just really lucky to have such a great team around me all the time. My parents have “She’s a special mare. We bred and raised her, and been so supportive for my entire career,” she added. Andrea showed both her mom and dad,” Fappani said. “I started riding her April of her 2-year-old year. Tish Fappani and Joes Genes win CINCH She’s just a cool mare. She’s got a huge stop. You Non Pro Level 3 Championship would think the way she’s bred, knowing her mom, With a 221 score, Tish Fappani and Joes Genes (Lil that she has some zing, and she does, but she is not a Joe Cash x Electric Genes), nominated by herself, hot mare at all. She’s a blast.” earned the CINCH Non Pro L3 championship and tie “She was great in the prelims but I was really for reserve honors in the L4. In all, Fappani earned nervous,” she said. “Just knowing I had one that I $53,606 aboard the mare she owns with her could be up there with, I was a little nervous, but she husband, Andrea, and her win helped push Lil Joe just showed great for me. Tonight, I sent her in too Cash above the NRHA Million Dollar Sire threshold, fast and that hurt me, but other than that she was and herself as Million Dollar Owner. right there with me.”
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Tish Fappani and Joes Genes
With Joes Genes’ win making it possible for her sire to gain NRHA Million Dollar Sire status, Tish was proud to have a part in Lil Joe Cash’s milestone. “It’s awesome to be a part of that. Lil Joe Cash has been a special horse – including when Andrea got him back for The Run For A Million,” she said. Expressing thanks for her family and the team behind her, Fappani says the win is even sweeter with her son Luca riding in the same Finals.
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Jacob Zimmerman earns Level 2 Championshipon Rufin Up The Chics Jacob Zimmerman teamed up with his horse Rufin Up The Chics (Not Ruf At All x Ms Playalotta Chic) nominated by his dad, Justin Zimmerman, for a 215.5 and the L2 Non Pro Championship worth $25,741. “I just got him two and a half weeks ago from Arno Honstetter and this was the first time to
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2020 NRHA FUTURITY
Jacob Zimmerman and Rufin Up The Chics
show him,” Zimmerman said about his horse aka ‘Elon.’ “My grandpa, Vaughn Zimmerman, and my father, Justin Zimmerman, own him. Arno didn’t know if he was ready to show in the Open, so I got him. I just rode him as comfortably as I could and hoped for the best and it worked out great for me. We marked a 215.5. He was really good. He listened to me and did everything I asked. He could have turned a little bigger, but overall he was very good.” Zimmerman thanked his trainer, Bobby Avila, Jr., as well as his family and Arno Honstetter for having the horse well trained. “I thank my family the most, my dad, my grandfather, and my mom Leah. They helped me get here,” he said.
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Hannah Mitchell and Stars And Stripes win L1 Championship Hannah Mitchell had never competed in a runoff before, but that all changed on Friday night when, at the end of the Finals, she found herself part of a three-way tie for the L1 Championship. She and her horse, Stars And Stripes (Star Spangled Whiz x Chic N Squirt), entered the Coliseum one last time to battle it out for the title. “I wasn’t too nervous about it. It was nice to go last because I knew what score we had to have, but it was harder because she was expecting a lot more. She wasn’t as good in the run-off as her first run, but she still tried her heart out,” Mitchell shared.
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In the end, it was enough: Not only did Mitchell and Stars And Stripes win the L1 Championship, they tied for third in the L2, tied for fifth in L3, and tied for 12th in L4 for earnings of $27,832. “I am so thrilled, thankful and happy because about two months ago we didn’t think we would get to bring this mare here following an injury,” she said.
Lane Colston and Lil Ruf Whizkey win the CINCH Non Pro Youth Futurity
Hannah Mitchell and Stars And StripesI
Seventeen-year-old Ronny “Lane” Colston rode Lil Ruf Whizkey (Whizkey N Diamonds x Lil Ruf Startime), nominated by Terry Leffew and owned by Kevin Colston, to the top of the Youth Futurity thanks to an impressive 221, the second highest score of the day. It was a great day for Colston who also split reserve honors in the L4 for total earnings of $34,651. “We bought him in July, I actually didn’t try him out before we bought him,” Colston said. “Cade [McCutcheon] tried him for us. He said, ‘You have to have this horse, you need this horse, you can do great on him.’ I didn’t ride him until about a week before the first time I showed him where we scored a 218. The second time it was a 220.5. In the go round in the Futurity I almost had a big bobble, but
“We bought her as a yearling and sent her to Bobby Avila. He trained her for two or three months as a 2-year-old, and then my dad and I took her from there. That’s what makes her so special, because we did all the training on her ourselves.” —Hannah Mitchel
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2020 NRHA FUTURITY
Lane Colston and Lil Ruf Whizkey
Stripes I saved myself and I was a 216, enough to make the Finals.” Lane rides with Tom and Mandy McCutcheon. “Cade mainly rides him [Lil Ruff Whizkey], but I was having a little trouble starting my turns and that’s Tim’s specialty, so he was riding him for a little while. They all know so much about horses. I learn from all of them, they know which way to point me. Everyone at the ranch is so helpful all the time so we enjoy being with that team.”
Mifchievious. In addition to the Prime Time title, Weber and Mifchievious (ARC Gunnabeabigstar x Mifilady), nominated by Kenneth Krebs, also earned fifth in the Non Pro L1, winning more than $4,200. F
Mike Weber wins CINCH Non Pro Futurity Prime Time on Mifchievious It’s been a dream for Mike Weber, who’s been showing reining horses since the 1970s, to win at the Futurity. “I even remember watching it in Ohio when I was a kid,” he shared. On Friday night, Weber took home the Non Pro Futurity Prime Time on his horse
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Mike Weber and Mifchievious
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ARCESE QUARTER HORSES USA
Eleuterio Arcese Makes History Again
I
Eleuterio Arcese
Photo © IHP
t reflects in the purchase of a foal, in the choice of a professional at the reins of a prospect or adult horse, in the decision of crossing a mare with a particular stallion. These decisions, alongside his passion, have made Eleuterio Arcese one of the biggest players in the industry with the support of his sons Leonardo and Matteo, and daughters, Paola and Aurora. Following a string of important titles won in NRHA, AQHA and NRCHA competition, his latest achievement was claiming the NRHA Open Futurity Championship in 2020 with the Arcese QH USA owned All Bettss Are Off and NRHA Six Million Dollar Rider Andrea Fappani in the saddle.
Photo © Cam Essick
“The desire to win never sleeps” is the core and success of Eleuterio Arcese’s program.
Inducted in 2004, Eleuterio Arcese was the first European to join the elite members of the National Reining Horse Association Hall Of Fame.
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Photo © Cam Essick
Walla Walla Whiz (right) is building his own legacy as he recently became an NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire. He crossed his first million-dollar milestone in 2015. The 2003 stallion boasts an impressive show record that puts his NRHA LTE just over $187,000.
Photo © Cam Essick
With 35 foals in the 2020 NRHA Open Futurity alone, it was nearly impossible for Gunnatrashya (bottom) to miss the Four Million Dollar mark. The 2006 stallion far surpassed that milestone after Gunnabebigtime (out of Big Time Jazzy) earned the Open L4 Reserve Champion title. NRHA Million Dollar Rider Brian Bell piloted the stallion to a 224.5 to earn $118,982.
Wimpys Little Chic In 2008, Arcese became the third NRHA Million Dollar Owner. Five years later, he made history again becoming the first Two Million Dollar Owner. Following the 2020 NRHA Futurity, Wimpys Little Chic became the fifth NRHA Million Dollar Mare. The talented palomino mare amassed more than half a million dollars in NRHA Lifetime Earnings (LTE). She’s the only horse in history to win the NRHA Futurity, NRHA Derby, and the NRBC consecutively, all with NRHA Six Million Dollar Rider Shawn Flarida in the saddle.
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Shawn Flarida and Wimpys Little Chic
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Photo © IHP
Oswood Stallion Station, Weatherford, TX, home to Arcese Quarter Horses USA
Following the 2020 NRHA Open Futurity win, Eleuterio Arcese is the owner with most Championships to his name.
Photo © IHP
ARCESE QUARTER HORSES USA
NRHA FUTURITY 1987 Open Champion Spirit Of Five (Brinks Hickory x Joe Continental Stormy) & Bill Horn 1998 Open Champion Chic Please (Smart Chic Olena x San O Lenita) & Todd Bergen 2007 Open Champion Wimpys Little Chic (Wimpys Little Step x Collena Chic Olena) & Shawn Flarida 2009 Open Champion & Intermediate Open Gunnatrashya (Gunner x Natrasha Shawn) & Shawn Flarida 2011 Co‐Reserve Open Champion Spook Off Sparks (Smart Spook x Setting Off Sparks) & Andrea Fappani 2012 Open Champion Americasnextgunmodel (Gunner x Cee Dun It Do It) & Casey Deary 2020 Open Champion All Bettss Are Off (Gunner x Wimpys Little Chic) & Andrea Fappani 2020 Prime Time Open Champion Whizsicle (SG Frozen Enterprize x Miss Whizzletown & Shawn Flarida
From left to right: Eleuterio Arcese, Monica Watson, Shawn Flarida, Bill Horn
NRHA DERBY 1990 Open Champion Genuine Redskin (Genuine Doc x Diamonds Sparkle) & Bob Loomis 2004 - 2005 Prime Time Open Champion Custom Mahogany (Custom Crome Gay x Doc Nell) & Brent Wright 2007 Open Champion Walla Walla Whiz (Topsail Whiz x Shiney Walla Wanda) & Shawn Flarida 2008 Open Champion Wimpys Little Chic (Wimpys Little Step x Collena Chic Olena) & Shawn Flarida 2010 Open Champion Gunnatrashya (Gunner x Natrashya) & Shawn Flarida
Eleuterio and long-time friends NRHA Hall of Famers Frank Costantini, Roberto Cuoghi with first European owner to win an NRHA Open World Championship, Mario Erbetta (third from left).
Photo © IHP
Photo © Cappy Jackson
In 2004, Matteo Arcese won the NRHA Futurity Limited Non Pro Championship riding Arc Magic Enterprise (Surprise Enterprise x Diamonds Ms Topsail). Here seen with his brother Leonardo.
Oded Fein, of MS Diamonds TX, and Eleuterio Arcese.
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2020 NRHA World Champions
Arnaud Girinon and Jacs Electric Girl, 2020 NRHA Open World Champions
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Open Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Jacs Electric Girl
Arnaud Girinon
Grey Stone Ranch Gmbh Niederwil SG, St. Gallen, CHE
$6,458.25
Colonel Tinseltown
Kathy Flynn Ferguson
Susan M Ashland, Kentucky
$1,318.78
Intermediate Open Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
John Wayne Tag
Austin T Morris
Summerwind Farm Inc Damascus, Maryland
$4,706.51
Gunna Bea Natural
Dan Yarbrough
Judy Yarbrough Realty Denver, North Carolina
$1,648.58
Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
John Wayne Tag
Austin T Morris
Summerwind Farm Inc Damascus, Maryland
$1,821.85
Gunna Bea Natural
Dan Yarbrough
Judy Yarbrough Realty Denver, North Carolina
$1,562.43
Limited Open
Rookie Professional Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
John Wayne Tag
Austin T Morris
Summerwind Farm Inc Damascus, Maryland
$1,605.73
Smart Sara Roos
Austin T Morris
Riley, Michael J Dickerson, Maryland
$1,010.28
Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Chics Nite
Ronny L Colston
Colston, Kevin M Frankfort, Kentucky
$4,712.76
Coded N Karma
Raeanna R Thayn
Robert & Robbin Thayn Tioga, Texas
$2,790.39
Non Pro
Intermediate Non Pro Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Smart Tinseltown
Anna Clausen
Clausen, Clay V Scottsdale, Arizona
$2,311.09
Hes Throwing Smoke
Kaylan Marks
Marks, Heather Lipan, Texas
$2,063.02
Limited Non Pro Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Smokin Whizkey
Julianna M Cook
Cook, Julianna M Farmington, Georgia
$900.45
Nobiz Like Show Whiz
Clay Bricker
Bricker, Edward R Evans City, Pennsylvania
$724.51
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Prime Time Non Pro Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Made By Magnum
Lucinda M Human
Human, Lucinda M Advance, North Carolina
$1,254.62
Double My Chics
Lisa Bissell
Bissell, Jamie Ft Valley, Georgia
$1,100.03
Novice Horse Open Level 1 Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Maggie Magnum
Jorge L Puente
SRQ Performance Horses LLC Sarasota, Florida
$1,891.54
Bazookachic
Gilad Susman
Bauwens, Ralph Chesterfield, Virginia
$1,787.42
Garrett, Jen Amelia, Virginia
Novice Horse Open Level 2 Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Lime A Rita
Jared T Leclair
Meyer, Susan S Cypress, Texas
$3,370.76
Maggie Magnum
Jorge L Puente
SRQ Performance Horses LLC Sarasota, Florida
$2,136.72
Novice Horse Open Level 3 Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Lime A Rita
Jared T Leclair
Meyer, Susan S Cypress, Texas
$3,182.13
Bazookachic
Gilad Susman
Bauwens, Ralph Chesterfield, Virginia
$1,860.14
Garrett, Jen Amelia, Virginia
Novice Horse Non Pro Level 1 Horse
Rider
Owner
Earnings
Girls Lovin Time
Jessicah Keller
Hilldale Farm Brashear, Texas
$1,837.83
In A Bikini
Jose Vazquez
Smart Like Juice Inc. Markham, Illinois
$1,687.63
Youth 13 & Under Horse
Rider
Owner
Points
Great King Jack
Calla J Thomas
Thomas, Jr., Bill Saginaw, Michigan
144
La Creme Brulee
Calla J Thomas
Thomas, Calla J Saginaw, Michigan
126.5
Horse
Rider
Owner
Points
A Bueno Chic
Adrianna Runzo
Runzo, Adrianna North Canton, Ohio
134.5
Outlaw Juicy Wales
Haley Turner
Turner, Luke Orient, Ohio
118.5
Youth 14-18
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Ronny Colston and Chics Nite, 2020 NRHA Non Pro World Champions
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2020 IRHA DERBY
Time to Rein! After months of lockdown, the reining family finally gathered for the IRHA/NRHA Derby, hosted during the first week of the "Salone Del Cavallo Americano" in Cremona, Italy. Over 400 horses arrived at CremonaFiere to compete behind closed doors and strict Covid-19 prevention rules were followed. Enthusiasm ran high, the atmosphere was great, and participants were grateful to be able to return to the show arena.
Cira Baeck and Phantom Face
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Photos by Bonaga Communication
Cira Baeck and Phantom Face dominate the IRHA/NRHA Level 4 Open scoreboard
requests and at the same time is a very sweet horse to handle. When we bought him from [NRHA Four Million Dollar Rider] Craig Schmersal, he told me he was selling me the sweetest horse he had ever ridden in his entire career and now I can truly confirm that. I've never had such an easy horse. I've ridden and shown super horses, but this one is truly special. He just does what you ask him, always listens and is very honest in the show pen. I think there should be more "Bentleys" in the world."
Valtorta and Four Season Whiz sweep the IRHA/NRHA Level 3 and 2
A
fter winning the preliminary go round, NRHA Million Dollar Rider Cira Baeck and Phantom Face (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Pale Face Dunnit x Gorgeous Like A Star), owned by Maria Cecilia Fiorucci, took home the Level (L)4 Open Derby Championship with a huge 228 score. "I'm so happy with this win. It's our second show together and the first this year. We hadn’t competed since November the prior year, so I was a little more nervous than usual," said a smiling Baeck. "He was wonderful in Verona and I was hoping to be able to repeat the performance here too. At home, he's also wonderful to work with; we have the opportunity to ride a lot in the large outdoor arena and then we often go on trail rides in the woods. He always listens to my
Sebastiano Valtorta and Four Season Whiz (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Topsail Whiz x Dun It Preciously) owned by Luca Mauri, won both the L3 and 2. "My horse was simply amazing!" said Valtorta. "We arrived in Cremona after a great performance at the Cactus Classic in Manerbio. In the first go of the Derby here he was equally solid and in the finals he gave me everything he had.” Valtorta added that he was grateful to owner [Luca Mauri] who he describes as being like a brother. “He
Sebastiano Valtorta and Four Season Whiz
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2020 IRHA DERBY
really leaves me free to plan whatever I feel is best for this horse,” he shared. “We are now considering whether or not to go to the NRHA European Derby and then we'll try to repeat this Derby result in the next IRHA Derby!"
Lena Maas and Chic Heidi take the Level 1 Championship
Lena Maas and Chic Heidi
Lena-Marie Maas, riding her own Chic Heidi (Chic Magnetic x Heidi Sailor), took home the L1 Open title with a 219.5 score. "I'm of course excited with this result," said Maas. "My horse was amazing; he was with me all the time and I couldn't ask for anything better than that."
The Non Pro Derby Bernardelli and Whiz Wild West ride to the Level 4 Non Pro Derby Championship Winning the 2020 IRHA/NRHA L4 Non Pro Derby Championship with a 223 score was the solid duo made up of Edoardo Bernardelli and Whiz Wild West (Spark N Whiz x West Coast Oak). "Once again I’m really happy with the way my horse performed from day one,” said Bernardelli. “Everything I asked for he did well and it's a pleasure to ride him. When I first started riding him it was a bit difficult to understand each other, but finally we found the right feeling and now he has become easy to show."
Andreu Nogué Puig and Whiz N Cash cash in the Level 3 Non Pro Derby win Once again Andreu Nogue Puig went home with another championship under his belt riding his own A Whiz N Cash (Custom Cash Advance x A Whiz N Wranglers). The duo won the L3 Non Pro
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Bernardelli and Whiz Wild West
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Derby Championship with a 218 score. "I don't have much to add about this horse except that he’s always given me, and continues to give me, everything and more!" said the young Spanish rider. "It was nice to come back and win once again here in Cremona. In the finals, I tried to do everything well and be as calm as possible because this year there were many very strong and talented horses. I would like to show him in the NRHA European Derby and try the Derby again."
Matteo Capello and RS Moon Foe Jac are Level 2 Non Pro Derby Champions Clinching the L2 Non Pro Derby Championship was Matteo Capello aboard his 8-year-old stallion RS Moon Foe Jac (RS Great Jac Feona x RS Red Moon Olena). “I’m so happy! This is my first Derby win and I’m even happier because I won it with RS Moon Foe Jac who is one of my all-time favorite horses,” said the young Italian rider. “In the show pen he’s such a great, honest and sweet horse, I’m really proud of him and I enjoyed our run.” Capello was quick to thank all the Robertas Stable’s staff as well as trainer Matteo Cuniglio and owner Claudio Risso. Above all were his parents, who he defines as being his top sponsors and supporters. Plans are to show him in the NRHA European Derby, and the Italian Maturity.
Andreu Nogué Puig and Whiz N Cash
Stiller and Romani share the Level 1 Non Pro Derby Championship Sharing the L1 Non Pro Derby title with a 215 score were Nikolai Stiller and Christian Romani. Germany’s Nikolai rode his own Hollywood Gunrunner (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Gunner x Dun It For Missy). “I have had this horse since she was a yearling. I started training her myself but since last year she’s under the guidance of [NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider] Bernard Fonck,” he said. “Last year we were L2 Swiss Derby Reserve
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Matteo Capello and RS Moon Foe Jac
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Champions, but this is our first major win. We are now going to the NRHA Germany Breeders Derby and plan on going to the NRHA European Derby and will try to repeat this result. She’s 8years-old now we’ll see what to do next. We will probably breed her in the hope of producing babies as good as she is!” Italian Romani was really excited about the result achieved aboard his own Sir Smoking Surprise (NRHA Twelve Million Dollar Sire Gunner x Sir Jacs Surprise). “I bought this horse three years ago following the advice of Beppe Prevosti who I really want to thank. The horse was a little bit messed up, but nevertheless it was love at the first sight as she’s a very bighearted!” he said. “I went to ride at Ambrosini QH about a month ago where I started to ride with Matteo Lattuada. We changed some things in the program, and I really want to thank him for all he taught me. She’s coming come back home now to enjoy a break and then next year we’ll think about the IRHA Derby and NRHA European Derby." F
Nikolai Stiller and Hollywood Gunrunner
Christian Romani and Sir Smoking Surprise
TEAM LOMBARDIA CONQUERS THE 2020 ITALIAN TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP Team Lombardia Coach, Paolo Orlandini, was very enthusiastic with his team’s result — and rightly so! “The horses and riders were great, and the whole team did their utmost best to achieve this result," he said. "I know all the horse-rider combinations really well since we compete together in the regional events, and I was sure we had a group capable of taking the team title as well as individual medals.” Team Lombardia was made up of: Open: Mirko Midili riding Saturday Big owned by Giada Longo Intermediate Open: Sebastiano Valtorta riding KN Miami Skeets owned by Matteo Monieri Non Pro: Carlo Ambrosini riding Unrickory Rooster owned by Ambrosini QH Limited Non Pro: Silvia Biagini riding her own Ruf Little Chex Novice Riders: Lavinia Padrini riding AT Andrewood owned by Melissa Alberti Youth: Riccardo Terzuoli riding Taco Wood onwned by Mattia Camisi Rookie Youth: Camilla Orlandini riding RS Cubalibra Jac owned by Alice Marinoni
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2020 IRHA DERBY
The IRHA/NRHA Pre Futurity Highlights Young horses had the chance to show their talent in the IRHA/NRHA Pre Futurity Taking home the L4 Open Pre Futurity Championship with a 218.5 was France's Arnaud Girinon riding BHB Wimpys Starlord (BHB Mr Wimpys Royal x BHB Katberry Stargun) owned by Valerie Fontaine.
The L2 Open Pre Futurity Champions were Stefano Cerutti and GD Peptos Olena Blue (Spat A Blue x Miss Peptos Jacky) owned by Domenico Giannitti. The pair scored a 217.5 which also earned them the L4 Reserve Championship.
Stephanie Blessing and Smart Spook Surprise (NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x ARC Honey Chick), owned by Grey Stone Ranch GmbH, scored a 211.5 sliding to the highest step of the podium in the L4 Non Pro Pre Futurity.
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With a 211 score Mattia Salinetti won the L2 Non Pro Pre Futurity aboard his own Heavenlyonthemoon. The duo also took reserve honors in the L4.
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For over 40 years, Guidolin Gianni (Italy) is specialized in animal feed and is renowned in the equestrian world for the product that identifies the brand internationally: The complete and balanced Wafer Fioc.
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ith the aim of satisfying those who live horses daily, and from the belief that the well-being of the horse also depends on correct nutrition, the Wafer Fioc range has always focused on producing high quality feed along with technical expertise. A complete feed concentrated in 4 x 4 cm “biscuits’ containing long-fiber forage and steam cooked cereals, all ingredients are carefully selected and each stage of the production process is meticulously checked in order to guarantee the quality and the absence of toxins and mold. The use of long-fiber improves the gastrointestinal transit while the biscuit composition allows for longer chewing and salivation during ingestion, fundamental for optimal digestion and assimilation of the nutrients. The innovative steamcooked and subsequently laminated cereals preserve the fiber, the aroma and extremely high biological value of the ingredients eliminating anti-nutritional factors which enhance the palatability. Being highly digestible, and providing a complete and balanced diet, no other feed, cereals or hay are needed. The practical storage and reduced feed waste is perfect during transport and competitions. The choice of maintaining the same formula also guarantees
nutritional consistency and is suitable for all breeds and equestrian disciplines, as well as breeding, riding and competition demands. The Wafer Fioc range includes five different variants in order to satisfy daily maintenance based on nutritional needs: Wafer Fioc Premium, a complete long-fiber feed formulated for horses with intense daily activities as it contains an optimal combination of protein and fat enriched with additional minerals and vitamins. Wafer Fioc Plus, perfect for brood mares and foals containing cereals, vitamins and minerals, ideal for gestation, lactation, and growth. Wafer Fioc Horses, the inaugural and most versatile product satisfying medium-high daily needs —reining horses for example. The two products that are considered ‘lighter’ are the Wafer Fioc Prestige, low protein, oat-free, ideal for ‘school’ horses, and Wafer Fioc Light, for horses at rest or in light work. In addition to the products offered are Equisnack, excellent handmade biscuits with flaked cereals, real pieces of fruit and vegetables. A natural line of treats and snacks for horses. The company also offers Flaked Cereals for horses, a mix of steam-cooked flaked raw cereals and legumes for the horse's daily maintenance. A new entry to the line of products is Equibar; 100% natural and doping-free nutrition bars. Equibar Mobility is highly appreciated by reiners as it contains effective anti-inflammatory properties for joints and muscles. Equibar Hemofluid for the support of microcirculation thus reducing joint swelling. Guidolin Horses also offers two different kind of horse bedding, one made with coconut skull fiber and the second with dust-free wood shavings. With an Italian heart, Guidolin Gianni, an international company with offices in Italy and Spain and a distribution network serving all Europe. The high request of products in America brought the company to Wellington, FL, in order to satisfy the U.S. market. Team Guidolin has always been alongside those who love horses and makes its experience available by defining a high-quality diet for all types of horses because, as we know, “the wellbeing of a horses also depends on its diet.”
2020 ELEMENTA | IRHA | NRHA MATURITY
2020 ELEMENTA IRHA/NRHA Maturity Recap The €60.000-added ELEMENTA/IRHA Maturity was held in Alfredo Ciabattoni’s beautiful Centro Ippico Le Arene, Corropoli. The NRHA approved event, open to 5-, 6-, 7-, 8-, 9- and 10-year-old horses, organized by IRHA in collaboration with Elementa’s Maria Cecilia Fiorucci, was run in a preliminary go round and finals.
Cira Baeck and Gunna Be A Big Hit
Photos by Bonaga Communication
Guglielmo Fontana and Holly Jolly Jaba
Angelo Benedusi and PL Colonelsmoking Cx
Perrine Prevost and Diabolo
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laiming the IRHA/NRHA Level (L)4 Maturity Open Championship with a big 222.5 score was NRHA Million Dollar Rider Cira Baeck aboard Gunna Be A Big Hit, a double registered AQHA/APHA 5-year-old stallion by NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Gunnatrashya and out of NRHA’s Million Dollar Dam Wimpys Little Chic owned by Maria Cecilia Fiorucci. It was a tight race for the title between Baeck and Guglielmo Fontana who rode Chiara Bartoletti’s 7-year-old mare Holly Jolly Jaba (Jaba Oak x Smart Dolly Hickory) to top the qualifier. The latter scored a 217.5 in the finals
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settling for reserve honors in the L4 and claiming the L3 Championship. Angelo Benedusi rode Ariana Aspersi’s flashy AQHA/APHA palomino PL Colonelsmoking CX (Gunner x Nu Dynamite Chex) to the L2 title with a 218.5 while, in the L1, Perrine Prevost slid Diabolo (CFR Centenario Wimpy x Chexy In Jewels), also owned by Fiorucci, to the win with a 212.5. It was a win for Enrico Sciulli on his own SH Que Best Step (Que Peseta x Footworks Best Step) who scored a 215.5 in the finals to take the L4 Non Pro Maturity Championship. Here too the competition was tight
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with Francesca Ferrarol and her father’s Wimpy Margarita (Wimpys Little Step x Custom Margarita) posting a 215 to tie for reserve honors with Francesco Freschi aboard his Im A Walla Walla (Walla Walla Whiz x Sexy Peponita). Riding to the L2 title was Lara Lorengo and Magnum Chic N Chex (Magnum Chic Dream x Buenonics Doughter) followed by young Swiss rider Nanina Staub who closed in second place and also took the L1 Championship riding Sabine Schmid’s Don With Chrome (Don Quintana x Great Mega Pine). Enrico Sciulli and SH Que Best Step
Lara Lorengo and Magnum Chic N Chex
Once the curtain fell on Le Arene, horses and riders left with great memories of an extremely well-organized show run in a family atmosphere. It’s arrivederci to 2021.
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Nanina Staub and Don With Chrome
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2020 BO RANCH FUTURITY
2020 BO Ranch Futurity The beautiful BO Ranch, located in Fontainebleu, the French ‘horse country,’ was host to the 2020 BO Ranch NRHA and NRHA France Futurity which offered competition to both 3 and 4-year-old horses as well as ancillary competition. Hosts Greg and Claire Morat chose to keep small numbers which at the end of the day translated into a great show
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Photos by Dead or Alive IHP Press Release
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osts Greg and Claire Morat had opened the doors of the BO Ranch in 2019 when they had offered the BO Ranch French Maturity. Due to worldwide health issues, the 2020 Maturity was cancelled, but the Futurity — which the Morat family chose to keep small in numbers — once again set the stage giving riders and owners the opportunity of showing in the most professional and relaxed ambiance. Claire and Greg thanked all those that made their way to La Chapelle La Reine, France. "It was a pleasure and an honor to have you all here," said an enthused Greg. "We now look forward to having everyone back here next year for the BO Ranch Maturity and Futurity." in the Futurities and ancillary classes made the FOCUS ON THE BO RANCH FUTURITY most of the splendid facility. Though the number of entries were low in order Friday and Saturday welcomed the 3- and 4-yearto respect health protocol, the riders competing old Open and Non Pro Futurities.
The BO Ranch 3-year-old Futurity It was a three-way tie for Bourgeois, Ferri and Pesek in the 3-year-old Futurity
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Bastien Bourgeois and WWW Limited Edition
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Stefano Ferri and Made To Inferno
Following an exciting competition, there was a three-way tie for the Championship between: Stefano Ferri and Made To Inferno (by Inferno 66) owned by Salvatore Patti, Axel Pesek and Jag Sparky Dun It (Uncle
Sparky x Fancy Lil Dun It) owned by Dominique Créquit, and Bastien Bourgeois riding WWW Limited Edition (Walla Walla Whiz x Hollywoods Lena Lady) owned by Ingrid Den Engelsman.
Axel Pesek and Jag Sparky Dun It
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#Backstage
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2020 BO RANCH FUTURITY
Bourgeois and Colonel Barbee Dream take the BO Ranch/NRHA 4-year-old Open Futurity It was all about Bastien Bourgeois and Colonel Barbee Dream (Colonels Shining Gun x Barbee Top Dream), owned by Mickael Clabeau, in the 4-yearold Open Futurity where the duo took the title with a 219 score. "I've had this horse since he was sixmonths-old and I broke and trained him," said Bourgeois. "He's always been great and I am thrilled for his owner for this result." An amazing evening thrilled all those that watched the BO RANCH 4-year-old NRHA Open Futurity where two riders tied for the Reserve Championship: Stefano Ferri with Slide Like Jac (Jacs Little Sunrise
It was a pleasure and an honor to have NRHA Hall of Fame Inductee and Two Million Dollar Owner Rosanne Sternberg for the awards presentation on Saturday night.
x Slidin Like A Yankee) for owner Francesca Sternberg, and Paalden Schooneman riding Berly Sunburst (Great Sun Burst x Surprise Me Jackie) owned by Astrid Bax. Stefano Ferri and Slide Like Jac
Paalden Schooneman and Berly Sunburst
Bastien Bourgeois and Colonel Barbee Dream
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CHÂTEAUX PRESTIGE
Proud Sponsors of the BO Ranch Futurity
Châteaux Prestige is a traditional “Maison de négoce” established in Bordeaux 10 years ago. From the beginning of their adventure, they offered Grands Crus Classés from Bordeaux and SaintÉmilion, wines from the greatest estates in Burgundy and from prestigious Champagne Houses. In 2020 Châteaux Prestige decided to offer the opportunity to order via their new “Châteaux Prestige” website.
Delivert and GS Early Steponspark are the BO Ranch/NRHA 3-year-old Non Pro Futurity Champions Clinching the BO Ranch/NRHA 3year-old Non Pro Futurity was Alexis Delivert of France riding his GS Early Steponspark (Steppin On Sparks x GS Spicy Smart Lena). For Delivert the win was twice as sweet: "I purchased this mare when she was 6 months old," he said. "This is my first time showing her and I could not be any happier!"
Alexis Delivert and GS Early Steponspark
Reserve honors, a point behind the champions, were for Caroline Leport and Wimpys Samoo Ray GG (Wimpy Little Black x Sam Jo Bright Star).
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2020 BO RANCH FUTURITY
The Sternberg Ladies Take the BO Ranch/NRHA 4-year-old Non Pro Futurity
It was all about family 4-year-old Non Pro Futurity niece, Jessica Sternberg, aboard A Ruff Spookin Gal where Francesca Sternberg, riding Lil Sunrise (Smart Spook x A Ruf Gal) both scored a 210.5 and Surprise (Jacs Little Sunrise x Sail A Spook), and opted for the Co-Championship. Girl Power!
Francesca Sternberg and Lil Sunrise Surprise
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Jessica Sternberg and A Ruff Spookin Gal
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#Backstage
2020 BO RANCH FUTURITY
NRHA SNAFFLE BIT OPEN 5&UNDER
Morey Fisk and Just Plain Trash
Morey Fisk and Dun Lost My Shine
The BO RANCH Futurity welcomed the Snaffle Bit 5&Under Open and Non Pro classes. Morey Fisk tied for first place honors in the NRHA Open with Just Plain Trash (Gunnatrashya x Lockyourgun) owned by Sabine Schmid and Dun Lost My Shine (Shine Chic Shine x Dun Lost My Freckles) owned by Julia Schubert. The Canadian champion based in France also placed Gunny Trashy Tuckers (Gunnatrashya x Tuckers Starlight), owned by Jayson Henri, to third place!
NRHA France Snaffle Bit Open 5&Under
#3 BUCKLES SPARKLIN STEP (Show Me The Buckles x Lookin Like A Diamond) owned by On the first day of competition at the BO RANCH Deborah Koeppel. Futurity, Gregory Legrand of France literally NRHA France Snaffle Bit swept the NRHA France Snaffle Bit Open Non Pro 5&Under 5&Under Open podium riding: #1 CB SMARTGUN CHICWHIZ (Colonels Shining It was first place honors for Mylene Thalman at the BO RANCH Futurity in the NRHA France Snaffle Bit Gun x Lil Chic Whiz) owned by Danyle Georges #2 CB WHIZ ROYAL GUNNS (My Royal Gun x Lil Non Pro 5&Under riding her own Freestyle Rose Rock (Rock Sonny Versary x Rose Miss Hollywood). F Chic Whiz) also owned by Georges
Gregory Legrand
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Mylene Thalman and Freestyle Rose Rock
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2020 NRHA BELGIUM FUTURITY
2020 Belgium Futurity Recap The $97,500-added Belgium Futurity was held at Barelhof Sport Horses in Destelbergen. Over 150 horses from multiple European countries made their way to Belgium vying for the prestigious titles
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t’s was a one-shot show for both the 3-yearold and 3 & 4-year old Open and Non Pro Futurity, and the Saturday night lights in Destelbergen provided exciting competition with the younger prospects competing in the 3-year-
old Open Futurity. Taking top honors was Europe’s only NRHA Two Million Dollar Rider Bernard Fonk and here, bloodlines and history made a clear statement! Fonck was seen riding NRHA Hall of Fame Inductee and Two Million
Bernard Fonck and Midsummer Spook
Photos by Dead or Alive
Dollar Owner Rosanne Sternberg’s Midsummer Spook. The stallion, by NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook (owned by Sternberg) and out of Shining Mona (by NRHA Four Million Dollar Sire Shining Spark) rode Fonck to a 217 and to the Level (L)4 Open Futurity Championship. In second place, with a 215.5, was Italy’s Stefano Ferri, who in the past was assistant trainer for Fonck, riding BO Ranch’s Lil Modern Spark, an American Paint Horse stallion by Spark N Whiz out of Lil White Gun. Ferri — head trainer for BO Ranch — and his mount also took the L3
Championship where Ernst Classen and Spookin Riccochet (Ricochet Rooster x Spool Pop Chex), owned by Deboti BVBA, took reserve honors as well as the L2 Championship with a 215 score. Closing the 3-year-old scoreboard with a 208.5 was Belgian Jordi Adriaens who clinched the L1 Open Championship riding GP Shining Vintage (A Sparkling Vintage x Sugar Chics Dunnit) for owner Imelda Maertens. In second and third place, again from Belgium, was Edouard Winne with Jana Mroszewski’s Shinersdancingvoodoo (Shiners Voodoo Dr x Lil Dancing Queen) and Piet Mesdagh’s FB Dr Jekyll (Spat A Blue x Max Chic RM) respectively.
Stefano Ferri and Lil Modern Spark
Ernst Claassen and Spookin Riccochet
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Jordi Adriaens and GP Shining Vintage
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2020 NRHA BELGIUM FUTURITY
Ann Fonck and Shines Like Spook Take the 3 and 4-year-old Open Futurity Championship History made History as NRHA Million Dollar Rider Ann Fonck riding NRHA Hall of Fame Inductee & Two Million Dollar Owner Rosanne Sternberg’s Shines Like Spook (NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire Smart Spook x NRHA Hall of Famer & Million Dollar Dam Ebony Shines) take the win.
Ann Fonck and Shines Like Spook
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NRHA history continued in the following levels as Million Dollar Sire blood flowed in the champion’s pedigrees. Riding Wimpysdreamcometrue (NRHA Six Million Dollar Sire Magnum Chic Dream x Sheza Smart Wimpy) owned by Celina Stuiber, Emanuel Ernst claimed the 3 and 4-year-old Level 3 Open Futurity Championships with a 218 score. Italian Raffaelle Colacicco riding Whizzergun (NRHA Three Million Dollar Sire Walla Walla Whiz x Love A Little Gunner) owned by Nicky Nietvelt Van Tendeloo scord a 216.5 to claim the 3 and 4-year-old Level 2 Open Futurity titles. Closing the exciting finals, with a 214 score, was Lena Maas aboard Spook Gotta Dance (NRHA Two
Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Gun x Dance Little Spook) owned by Quarter Dream Srl of Italy where Maas is based.
Raffaelle Colacicco and Whizzergun
Lena Maas and Spook Gotta Dance
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Emanuel Ernst and Wimpysdreamcometrue
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2020 NRHA BELGIUM FUTURITY
Stephanie Blessing and Smart Spook Surprise
The 3-year-old Non Pro Futurity With a 213.5 score, Stephanie Blessing rode Smart Spook Surprise (NRHA Six Million Dollar SireSmart Spook x ARC Honey Chick) owned by Grey Stone Ranch Gmbh to the 3year-old Level 4 Non Pro Futurity Championship. A half-a-point behind, Tom De Boever and Spookin Riccochet (Ricochet Rooster x Spool Pop Chex) owned by Deboti BVBA, swept the Levels 3, 2 and 1 Non Pro Futurity Championships.
Tom De Boever and Spookin Riccochet
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2020 NRHA BELGIUM FUTURITY
The 3 & 4-year-old Non Pro Futurity
Stephanie Blessing and Dance Gotta Gun
It was a double championship win for Stephanie Blessing who also took the Level 4 Non Pro Futurity title this time riding Dance Gotta Gun (NRHA Two Million Dollar Sire Spooks Gotta Gun x Dance Little Spook) owned by Grey Stone Ranch Gmbh with a great 218 score. Sweeping the levels 3, 2 and 1 Non Pro Futurity titles was Bert Coeckelberghs who rode Gunna Be Delicious (Gunnerlicious x Chics Little Wimpy), owned by Steven Coeckelberghs, to a 214.5. F
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Bert Coeckelberghs and Gunna Be Delicious
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BOECHAT EQUINE
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Boechat Equine and Plus Online Sales Doug Milholland. Because of the money won, Boechat was catapulted into the Open Division where competition was tough but, he never gave up and, in 2003, Thiago and wife Izabel of now 20 years made the decision to move to the States. “After graduation I was lucky enough to do a lot of breeding work in Brazil so when I was at Doug’s I did a little bit of that for him and his clients. After that I worked with Jim Bloomer for three years where I did everything; training, breeding, collecting and managing,” he said. Boechat’s life took a turn in 2010 when he met businessman and horse enthusiast Lorenzo Vargas of Mexico and the pair decided to look for a good early 3-year-old. The result was Shiners Voodoo Dr who they purchased from Kevin Stallings where he was in training. It was the beginning of a significant journey which resulted in the legendary Xtra Quarter Horses. “We put together a business plan, purchased Wimpys Little Step and Wimpyneedsacocktail, and in six months went to 60 head of horses,” said Boechat who is proud to have brought legendary Wimpys Little Step’s offspring earnings from two to 12 million. After seven years, Michael and Michelle Miola purchased the business and for three years, Boechat stayed on board. © Bee Silva
“For the love of the horse, for the love of the sport” couldn’t describe anyone better than Thiago Boechat. Born in Brazil, professional trainer Boechat grew up in a horse-oriented family with his father breeding and raising American Quarter Horses. The spark for riding and showing was lit as a young kid, as was the passion for reining horses. “As a kid I showed everything, from halter to barrels and roping,” he says. “When I was around 11 years old, I attended a clinic with Jango Salgado and fell in love with reining.” In 1993, Boechat made his way to the U.S. where he worked with professional horseman Joe Hayes to learn the art of the trade. After he went back to Brazil and started training horses professionally, his parents encouraged him to try to get into vet school. He was accepted in three universities but his choice fell on President Prudente University in São Paolo…the city with most horses. “I didn’t know anyone in the horse industry there so I started riding bulls, which I had done at home in college, to make some money,” he recalls. But Boeachat did find his way to train horses during gaps between classes there too. After graduation, Boeachat purchased a 2-year-old, Roosters True Luck, in the U.S., and brought him to Brazil. “He turned out to be a good horse so we formed a syndicate, and I showed him at the NRHA Futurity where we placed seventh in the Open and third in the Intermediate and Limited,” he shared. Since NRHA competition in Brazil at the time was not approved, from zero earnings Boechat left Oklahoma City with a check worth over $50,000 and a job offer from NRHA Professional and Hall of Fame Inductee
Plus Online Sales At the end of 2020, Thiago and his wife, along with their two children Ty (12) and Sophia (10), decided to move in a different direction. “I felt the time had come to run my own operation [Boechat Equine]. I also decided to stop showing and now have a young trainer from Brazil, Lucinho Casalecchi, who does a great job. I have been coaching him and believe in him,” he says. “My focus now is Plus Online Sales which I believe is the future of buying livestock.” Along with his partner, Alex Ramos, a very successful horse trainer in Brazil who is very involved in auctions in Brazil where 90 percent of sales come from online, Boechat firmly believes this will be the future. “Online grows every day, in every segment. We are horse people, that’s where we started, and at the moment we very specific on horses where we offer all the details: X-rays, pictures, records, descriptions, vet checks, etc. We are now expanding to other such as cattle and bulls. We had already decided to move on with livestock, which will be the next step. Cattle is something that is closer to horses and we have knowledge in the area in that area. “The beauty about online is the reduction of the cost. When you don’t have to haul, get stalls, no setup, no hotel rooms etc., it’s so much cheaper. In big countries, and internationally, there is no need to haul and go yourself. You can connect around the world without seeing each other – without having to move. In the beginning, it may be difficult to purchase without being on hand, but it’s a matter of credibility. It’s about doing a really good job in showing the horse as he is and of course, in certain situations, the buyer can see it personally or send a trainer . At Plus Online Sales we are just trying to make it simpler and, if needed, can connect the buyer to shipping companies, nationally and internationally.”
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2020 NCHA FUTURITY
2020 National Cutting Horse Association
Futurity Recap It’s Third Time Lucky for Adan Banuelos Who Clinches the Open Title with All Spice!
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Photos by Seth Petit Photography Edited Press Release
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or two years in a row — 2018 and 2019 — Adan Banuelos took reserve honors in the highest paying event in the sport of cutting: The NCHA Open Futurity. Last year he took second place riding Twice In Santiago. The year before, he did the same aboard Badboonarising, a full brother to All Spice, a super talented royally bred red roan mare who cut her way to the top of the rankings with Banuelos in the saddle earning his first ever NCHA Open Futurity Championship. “She is a big, smart mare, and can do it all!” said Banuelos who was quick to credit his mount for the win and a $246,880 paycheck. “She has a unique way of moving and is so smooth.” Owned by Holmes/Hill Partnership, All Spice is by Once In A Blue Boon and out of Show Biz Kitty, the dam of Badboonarising. In a field of 23 who made their way to the finals following the Semi Finals, the Champions took the
title with a score of 224, a point ahead of the Reserve Champions, Bugattii and Wesley Galyean. Owned and bred by SMF Cutting Horses LLC, the gelding is one of seven – out of the 23 finalists - sired by Metallic Cat. He is also the first money earner out of Down Supercat. The duo won $193,572 and earned an additional $6,651 as Champion Open Gelding.
Fiddle And Steel and Brandon Westfall Score Big to Win the NCHA Non Pro Futurity Championship “The cows tonight were really testy and that first cow was a lot” said young Brandon Westfall who took his second consecutive NCHA Non Pro Futurity Championship, this year riding Fiddle And Steel, with an outstanding 227 score. “I want to thank all my help, my dad, and all of them for helping me get off that cow! Every turn I thought it was going to be its last.”
Spotlight on the Open Semi Finals For 23 owners and riders of Open 3-year-old cutting horses, the Open Semi Finals meant the light at the end of a year-long tunnel of hard work and hope. Following three elimination go-rounds, it all came down to a score of 217.5 for qualification to the Finals. Three scores of 222 points topped the field: Catolena Cashin In, owned by Joel Colgrove and shown by Tarin Rice; Lizzys Chromed Kitty, owned by Coyote Rock and shown by Tatum Rice; and Spots Hottist, owned by Rocking P Ranch and shown by Jesse Lennox.
Catolena Cashin In and Tarin Rice
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Lizzys Chromed Kitty and Tatum RIce
Spots Hottist and Jesse Lennox
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The beautiful red roan Metallic Cat stallion was bred and is owned by Brandon’s parents, Russ and Janet Westfall. “We raised this horse and I had confidence in him,” Brandon added. “He makes it all really easy; he’s pretty awesome and winning here is the best feeling ever!” Westfall’s hard-won 227-point score is the second-highest in the 53-year history of the NCHA Non-Pro Futurity. Mary Ann Rapp won the event in 2002 with a record 228 points on Little Janey Lena, by Smart Little Lena. Westfall’s winner’s share of $74,605 is also the secondrichest in Non-Pro Futurity history. Only Wes Shahan, with $77,917 in 1985 riding Miss Silver Pistol, has won more.
Claiming the Reserve Championship were Nitreyious and Reyly Plendl, who marked a 222 in the first of the two-set finals. A gelding by Metallic Cat, Nitreyious is out of the mare Cherrey (by Dual Rey). Bred by Rodney Wrinkle Cutting Horses, he is co-owned by Reyly and her twin sister and fellow cutter, Regan Plendl.
Charles Russell Bushaw and Hawk Falcon are McAlister Assets NCHA Futurity Unlimited Amateur Champions Yet another young rider with a home bred horse took top honors at the NCHA Futurity: Charles Russell Bushaw with Hawk Falcon (Hottish x La Femme Nikita). “It was pretty fun. The horse felt
Fiddle And Steel and Brandon Westfall
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2020 NCHA FUTURITY TOP SIRES Metallic Cat
Once In A Blu Boon
(High Brow Cat x Chers Shadow x Peptoboonsmal)
(Peptoboonsmal x Autumn Boon x Dual Pep)
TOP PERFORMERS: Open Reserve Champion Bugattii ($245,223, out of Button Down Supercat x Dual Rey) Non-Pro Champion Fiddle And Steel ($104,605, out of Lil Bit Reckless x CD Royal) Non-Pro Reserve Champion Nitreyious ($90,939, out of Cherrey x Dual Rey)
TOP PERFORMERS: Open Champion All Spice ($321,880, out of Show Biz Kitty x High Brow Cat) Unlimited Amateur finalist Trendzetter ($16,165, out of Misplaced Cat x WR This Cats Smart) Limited Open finalist Athena Boon ($13,912, out of Justa Puddy Cat x Athena Puddy Cat)
pretty good,” he said. “Probably the best he’s felt out of all the times I’ve showed him so far. “ In a field of 24, the duo closed with a 219, and even though it was Bushaw’s first win at the NCHA Futurity, he had won money at the event for the past four years, and last year made the Unlimited Amateur finals with Hawk Falcon’s full brother, Thunder Buddy. The $28,679 first-place check has pushed Bushaw’s earnings to over $177,000. The 2020 Unlimited Amateur Reserve Championship went to Ken Schultz and Meytallic (Metallic Cat x Starlight), who marked a score of 217. F
Charles Russell Bushaw and Hawk Falcon
Sixteen-year-old Makayla Cowan and Redneck Hillbillie (Light N Lena x Billies Catty) scored a 219.5 to win the Rios of Mercedes NCHA Futurity Amateur Championship and $24,065
Laura Bennet took the NCHA Futurity Limited Non-Pro title riding Charlie Brown (High Brow Cat x Moms Stylish Scoot), a gelding trained by her husband Tate Bennett.
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2020 FANANO CUTTING TROPHY
Gaia Salvatori and Metallic Savanah
2020 Fanano Cutting Trophy This year, more than ever, the Fanano Cutting Trophy was an important show for Italian cutters. Not only was it the first event to take place after the lockdown, it was a moment of celebration for Rosy O'Grady's Cutting Horses whose 20th anniversary fell in 2020.
D
edication and perseverance of all the Rosy O'Grady's Cutting Friends’ staff has shown how many accolades can be reaped over time. Not only, the close-knit team achieves excellent results, at the same time supporting the sport of cutting in Italy and
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encouraging cutters from all over Europe to join the group. Despite the long-term inactivity by most of the cutters, especially non pros and amateurs, the great desire to start again and get back in the arena was the real engine of this event which
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Photos by Bonaga Communication Edited Press Release
counted almost the same number of entries as the previous year. The organization of the event, held in compliance with all Covid-19 rules, was more than careful. This allowed both the organizers, and especially competitors from all over Europe, to spend a relaxing day in a professional yet family atmosphere. An all Rosy O'Gradys's podium saw Gaia Salvatori winning the Ncha Open All Ages, with a 74 score, riding Metallic Savanah. “During the lockdown we went to the Ranch only and exclusively to carry out the primary activities necessary to take care of our horses and for this reason, and I couldn’t wait for this first event!” said an excited Gaia Salvatori. “Seeing that the other cutters were living my emotions with the same determination pushed me with a lot of positive energy. I was very happy to see people and friends that I had not seen since February and at the same time proud of the fact that, thanks to all the Rosy Grady’s team, we were able to host our beautiful Jackpot.” Gaia describes her horse, Metallic Savanah, AKA “Topino,” as a very honest horse. “I can trust him blindly,” she added. “Every so often he’s the one who saves me from tough situations and even with challenging or “bad” cows, he always gives 100 percent. Yes, he’s definitely my horse!” In second place, with a 72, was Pietro Valeri riding Cat Rey Lou, owned by Marco Salvatori while Marco, aboard B Nimble, placed third with a 70.5 score.
NCHA of Italy past president, Federico Mainolfi, and his Babygoterboonjeanson — AKA “Jeansy” — scored a 73 to win the NCHA $5,000 Novice Horse class, followed by Federico Fanti who closed with a 72 riding Stefano Caminati's Smooth Catalynx. "Jeansy, is a mare that I purchased in early 2019,” shared Mainolfi. “She boasts an excellent show record in the U.S. where she was also a NCHA Futurity finalist. In Italy, in the classes she was shown, she has always proved her great talent and the ability to achieve excellent results. The Fanano event was a surprise for everyone, both because during the lockdown my mare was on a break and because I didn't have too many chances to ride her. We honestly didn't think she would be so ready for the show and that I would be able to show her so well — to the point of winning the class — also because in the meantime my son Alessandro has approached the sport of cutting and has started riding her more often than I could. She is an exceptional
Federico Mainolfi and Babygoterboonjeanson
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Alessandro Fulceri and Shining Boonstar
mare, great-minded, has a great attitude, and a beautiful conformation, added to an excellent pedigree. Like all my horses, after the Challenge Futurity I could have sold her, but the passion that my son Alessandro showed toward this mare made it impossible to sell her and very soon we will be able to see him riding for the first time.” In the NCHA of Italy $25,000 Limit Rider Alessandro Fulceri, riding Marco Salvatori's Shining Boonstar, took the win with a 70 score followed, in second place, by Simone Nicola riding Quixotes Pep Talk. Amateur and Non Pro competition With a score of 73, Greta Salvatori riding Cat Rey Lou won the NCHA Non Pro All Ages. “April and May were the months preceding my final exams so I was very busy studying and I couldn’t dedicate that much time to horses” said Greta. “I saw them rarely, practically not at all. The desire to compete was therefore truly absurd, but to this was added the incredible desire to see all those people who are part of the cutting world and in particular those friends whom I had not seen for many months. It was truly a great pleasure to see
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everyone in the arena again, on top of it, at my house.” According to Greta Cat Rey Lou, despite the many months of inactivity, was ready to start again and this made the competition fun for both. “We were both ‘easy,’ but deep down I knew she was ready and we both could do well. Cat Rey Lou [Highbrow Cat x Farra Fey] is a 10-year-old mare that I started riding a year and a half ago and we got along well from day one. She is a very experienced mare and I have a lot to learn from her. She is very generous, powerful and mentally smart. This allows her to ‘read’ the cows really well. We hope that the season will continue this way until the end!” Tying for second place, a point behind, were Marco Salvatori with his Highbrow Time and Lorenzo Antonini aboard Metal Mania. The NCHA $15,000 Amateur, the biggest class of the day, saw Simone Nicola cutting his way to the highest step of the podium with a 74 scored riding Quixotes Pep Talk. In second place, with a 74, was Jette Juergensen riding Inagaddavida. In the Non Pro All Ages Jackpot Marco Salvatori on B Nimble scored a big 75, three
Greta Salvatori and Cat Rey Lou
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2020 FANANO CUTTING TROPHY
Simone Nicola and Quixotes Pep Talk
points ahead of second placed Imre Katona's with Smart as a Kat. Maurizio Battista Sandei clinched the NCHA $50,000 Amateur riding Iminent Cat to a 73 score. In second place, a half-point behind, was Hungary’s Imre Katona riding Zen And Tonic. The long day of competition, filled with fun and enthusiasm, ended with the NCHA $ 2,000 Limit Rider where Alessandro Fulceri on American Cat Beauty took the lead thanks to his 72. In second place were Sophia Endress and Little Blue Tutu. F
All the way from Germany: Anna Koukal! Anna Koukal made her way to Fanano from Germany to win the NCHA $1.000 Amateur with a 70 score aboard her Spoonful Of Tears. Not content, she also claimed the 72 top score in the NCHA of Italy Novice Riders followed with Jette Juergensen, also from Germany, riding Inagaddavida to a 71. “The Jackpot in Fanano was already scheduled at the beginning of the year, but during the lockdown I thought that there would be no shows in 2020,” said Koukal. “I was not able to ride for a couple of weeks since the border between Switzerland and Germany was closed. For this reason I was more than happy when I heard that the Jackpot would take place in August.” Anna’s horse is normally in training in Germany under the guidance of professional Ute Holm. “I went to Fanano a few days before the competition and this gave me the opportunity to work on the cows with Pietro and Martina and enjoy the atmosphere there,” she said. “It was the perfect preparation for the show. I was able to observe the organization and preparation of the arena, the food and the entire ranch and I must admit that putting together such a great show requires a lot of effort, manpower and passion! A huge thank you goes to the fantastic ‘ROG’ team who were able to manage it all by creating a beautiful show full of positive vibes after the lockdown. I am always a little excited before showing and try to achieve my personal goals during the competition — like staying relaxed on horseback and
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trying to do a good job in the herd. I was very happy with my show, especially because I felt that for the first time Spoonful Of Tears and I worked as a team and this thrilled me! I also got good scores, which was like putting the icing on the cake. I love competing in Italy and I try to divide my show schedule between Germany and Italy, and even if the journey to is long, it's always worth it! The show conditions are very good and the level of competition is impressively high! For now I’ve only competed in Voghera and Fanano and I must say that the ground and the cattle allow you to practice showing at high levels!”
Anna Koukal and Spoonful of Tears
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2020 NCHA OF ITALY CHAMPIONSHIP SHOW
NCHA of Italy Championship Show
Ready, Steady...Cut That Cow! The inaugural NCHA of Italy Championship show for cutters and their horses is comparable to the awakening after a long winter hibernation. They all meet again to warm up the engines for the show season.
T
he first show is always a party, where everybody shares what happened during the winter months: Cutters exchange their thoughts, suggestions and above all they observe each other to understand who, during the season, could be the one ‘to deal with’ in the show pen. Cutting is competition but also, and above all, collaboration. Trainers help trainers and after having scored high, the one who is already in a position to taste victory gets back in the saddle and returns to the arena to help those who, after him, could take that taste away. Cutters share advice, the desire to cooperate, and spirit of competition, making this discipline simply unique! Judging the inaugural show of the year was French
NCHA Judge Etienne Galline, a professional who often competes in Italy and who has been a passionate follower of the Italian cutting scene for a long while. In the show pen: The Open classes Proving to be ready for the start of the show season and cutting her way to the podium was Rosy O’Grady’s co-head trainer, Martina Annovazzi. Riding Federico Mainolfi's Babygoterboonjeanson, the talented lady scored a 74 to win the first Open class, followed, just half a point behind, by her husband — co-head trainer for the Italian facility —Pietro Valeri aboard Marco Salvatori's Vino Cappuccino. Professional Sheri Mason, another talented lady, took the winner’s crown in the second Open class on Yvonne Heinzer’s Snappy Hunter with a 75 score. Second place honors, with a 74.5, went to Pietro Valeri riding Salvatori’s American Cat Beauty. In a field of 13, Pietro Valeri rode Juniper Cd for Salvatori to win the $5,000 Novice Horse after scoring a 72. Half-a-point behind was Gianluca Munarini riding Dagmar Sebelova’s Lil Drive Cat. The $25,000 Limit Rider class once
Martina Annovazzi and Babygoterboonjeanson
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Photos by Bonaga Communication Edited Press Release
again proved to be a growing class and here Sergio Falcone on Daiquiri Lena took the win with a 72, followed, a point behind, by Matteo Chinaglia on Cd Crystal Lena. In the second class, with a 72 score, the win was for Federico Mainolfi riding Babygoterboonjeanson. The Non Pro and Amateur classes It was a win for Greta Salvatori and Cat Rey Lou with a huge 74 in the first Non Pro class. Behind the duo were Andrea Favaretto and Lenas Startaz who closed their go with a 73. The second Non Pro class was all about Elisa Artioli riding Tassa Mia Cat 012 who took the win with a 74. Hansruedi Baumann rode Highbrowcd Is Playin to a 73 and second place. Score big was the word in the $50,000 Amateur class making everybody realize what a great job the trainers who follow non pros and amateurs do with their mounts. In the first class, with a score of 75, Vincenzo Fontanili rode Bearly On Cd Light to the win followed by Michal Popov and Stop Ur Hot who closed with a 73. Young Sasha Schwind posted a 73 to win the second
Pietro Valeri and Juniper Cd
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Sheri Mason and Snappy Hunter
Sergio Falcone and Daiquiri Lena
Federico Mainolfi and Babygoterboonjeanson
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Non Pro class with The Big Spoon between the reins. Fontanili and his mount took second with a 72.5. The $15,000 Amateur saw a two-peat from Elisa Artioli who went on to win the first class with a 74 score as well as the second with a 73 riding
Greta Salvatori and Cat Rey Lou
Cattamoola. In the first, following suit was Swiss Yvonne Heinzer and Snappy Hunter who scored a 72. Just half a point behind the winners, Matteo Chinaglia and Cd Crystal Lena took reserve in the second class. Judith Spindler riding C D Boss clinched the win in the first $2,000 Limit Rider class by closing her performance with a 73 score, two points ahead of Nicola Simone aboard Quixotes Pep Talk. Markus Walker on Missy Pepto, with a 70 score, was the winner of the second class followed by Andrea Sablatnig on Time Cat. With an excellent 71, Amedeo Micucci climbed to the top of the ranking in the first $1,000 Amateur class aboard Lenas Tazmania and also tied for second place in the second class with Andrea Sablatnig and Time Cat.
Elisa Artioli and Tassa Mia Cat 012
Elisa Artioli and Cattamoola
Vincenzo Fontanili and Cd Light
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Judith Spindler and C D Boss
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Aged classes Riding Hansruedi Baumann’s Elettrica Boon Cat, Federico Fanti rode to top honors in the NCHA of Italy 4-year-old Open Championship with a score of 72. Denis Pini riding Katona Imre's Ray Cat 31 and Pietro Valeri riding Peter Hanraths' Arnicat scored a 71 to tie for second place. Martina Annovazzi and Federico Mainolfi’s Babygoterboonjeanson claimed the NCHA of Italy 5/6year-old Open class. Reserve honors were for Gianluca Munarini riding Dagmar Sebelova’s Lil Drive Cat. The Italian professional also rode Willem Bembom’s Cap Bet Blue to third place.
Federico Fanti and Elettrica Boon Cat
Anna Koukal piloted Spoonful of Tears to second place in the first class with a 70 score behind the winner, Markus Walker on Missy Pepto. The twoYouth classes were all about young rising star
Riccardo Pini who rode Merada Dreamcatcher to the win with a 73 score in the first class and a 74 in the second. Sasha Schwind was second in both classes aboard The Big Spoon. F
Markus Walker on Missy Pepto
Amedeo Micucci and Lenas Tazmania
Riccardo Pini and Merada Dreamcatcher
Sasha Schwind and The Big Spoon
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2020 NCHA OF ITALY DERBY& SPRING SHOW
Martina Annovazzi and Pep Lavender
NCHA of Italy Derby & Spring Show The first official NCHA of Italy show held after the lockdown took place in Cremona, Italy, during the Salone del Cavallo Americano, a location always appreciated by cutters and cutting horse lovers. Annovazzi and Pep Lavender take the Open Derby Title The Derby & Spring Show is one of the most important NCHA of Italy cutting horse events: It’s
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a beautiful mix between young cutting horses who entered the arena for the first time the previous year for the Futurity, together with adult and solid show horses who already have
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Photos by Bonaga Communication Edited Press Release
achieved excellent results. In the first go of the Open Derby Martina Annovazzi posted the top score, a 74, on Marco Salvatori's Pep Lavender. The duo went on to improve their score by one point in the second go winning the Open Derby Championship. Reserve Champions, with a 146 composite, were Federico Fanti and Damiano Avigni's Kittenish. “This was a really successful show, offering impeccable conditions, considering the particular moment we are going through,” said Annovazzi. “As for Pep Lavender, a 4-year-old mare out of Pettys Dual Pep —who was a very successful cutting mare
— and sired by Smart Rey Pepto [Rosy O'Grady's flagship stallion for the past few years] I can say that during her training she was a ‘particular’ filly; very sensitive, but always showing great potential. It took a while and a lot of patience for this potential to develop...but we made it! She surpassed all expectations with two very good runs and finally managed to agree with my feelings!” Mainolfi and Babygoeterboonjeanson are Non Pro Derby Champions Federico Mainolfi on Babygoterboonjeanson won the Derby Non Pro and Limited Non Pro Championship with a composite score of 143.
Federico Mainolfi and Babygoeterboonjeanson
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2020 NCHA OF ITALY DERBY& SPRING SHOW
Marco Salvatori and Highbrow Time
Pietro Valeri and Cat Rey Lou
Vincenzo Fontanili and Bearly To Cd Light
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They were followed, a point behind, by Reserve Champions Damiano Avigni and Cat N Sweet 15. “I left for the Derby confident that I could have done well because Babygoterboonjeanson is a very scenic mare, very solid and very easy to show,” said Mainolfi. “Regarding the Salone del Cavallo Americano, despite all the limitations, I personally enjoyed the show. Having seen fewer people at the show gave me the feeling of a new beginning and I found it right that it was done this way.” Taking reserve in the Limited Non Pro Derby with a 140 score was Sara Giudici aboard Smart Green Acres. The Spring Show Open to adult horses, the Spring Show saw Marco Salvatori and Highbrow Time score a big 75 to win the Open Championship. Denis Pini and Tassa Mia Cat 012, owned by Elisa Artioli, took reserve with a 74 while Sheri Mason followed suit riding Yvonne Heinzer's Snappy Hunter. Marco Salvatori aboard Highbrow Time also went on to claim the Spring Show Non Pro Championship after closing with a 74 winning score. Half-a-point behind was his daughter, Gaia Salvatori, riding Metallic Savanah. “The beginning of the competition week was not very easy for me, but we all know that the beauty of cutting is the ‘cow’ variable: When you are sure of yourself, when it seems that everything will go for the best, anything can happen and you might just lose a cow!” said a smiling Gaia. “We know, however, that we can always try to benefit from these difficult moments, and it’s probably for this reason that I was more than ever determined to do well. Being able to show my horse in both the Open and Non Pro classes was already the best achievement I could wish for. I am very satisfied
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Greta Salvatori rode Denvers Purdy
More Ancillary Action
with all the great work done by our Rosy O’Grady’s team who increasingly demonstrates a great spirit of cohesion and a great desire to grow, improve, and always do well. In particular I have to thank my trainers Pietro Valeri and Martina Annovazzi, but I certainly cannot forget my helpers in the arena — Federico Fanti and Denis Pini — who with their advice, indications and constant support throughout the runs, help me bring home excellent results. Cutting is also this, a great spirit of sportsmanship that wins over competition for the sake of the discipline.” The NCHA of Italy Spring Show $ 25,000 Limited Rider Champions with a 145 score were Vincenzo Fontanili and Bearly To Cd Light followed by Sergio Falcone riding Daiquiri Lena.
NCHA of Italy Ancillary Action In the Open All Ages classes, Pietro Valeri took first and second place with Cat Rey Lou scoring a 74, and taking reserve honors on Vino Cappuccino with a 73 score. Both horses are
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Very happy for the winning was Anna Koukal from Germany who in the $25,000 Limited Rider won on Spoonful of Tears with a 70 score followed by Alessandro Fulceri on Shining Boonstar and Judith Spindler riding CD Boss who placed third. A very competitive $15,000 Amateur class saw Matteo Chinaglia winning both the first and second show with a 73 riding Cd Crystal Lena. Second place, with a 72, went to Sergio Falcone on Daiquiri Lena. In the second show, Elisa Artioli on Cattamoola took second place with a 72. Marinella Lenzotti riding Silverado Rey won both $1,000 Amateur classes. In the first show Paolo Brunelli was second aboard Elisa Artioli's Cattamoola. In the second show, Alessandro Mainolfi and Shining Boonstar took second place honors. Winning both the first and second Novice Riders was Judith Spindler on CD Boss. They were followed by Alessandro Mainolfi on Shining Boonstar. The $2,000 Limit Rider/Any Horse closed the Amateur categories. In the first show Markus Walker aboard Missy Pepto took the highest step of the podium with a 72 score. The duo was followed by Anna Koukal on Spoonful of Tears who closed with a 70 score. Winning the second show with a score of 73, was Luigi di Felice riding Lenas Startaz owned by Giada Favaretto followed by Benno Wiss riding Im a Swiss Cat.
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Great satisfaction was for young cutter Andrea Favaretto who, riding Lenas Startaz owned by his sister Giada, with a 73 score took the $50,000 Amateur first show, two points ahead of Willem Bembom on A Catty Gucci Girl who closed in second. Rosana Bembom, riding Willem Bembom's Smoking Spook took the $50,000 Amateur second show. Here they were followed by Greta Salvatori on Marco Salvatori's B Nimble. Bembon also won the NCHA of Italy Jackpot Non Pro All Ages with a 72 riding Willem’s Catty Gucci Girl. Champion of the $5,000 Novice Horse, first and second show, with a 74 score was Denis Pini aboard Michal Popov's Stop Ur Hot. The duo was owned by Marco Salvatori. followed by Federico Fanti who scored a 72 riding In the Non Pro All Ages, with a 74 score, Greta Stefano Caminati's Smooth Catalynx. Salvatori rode Denvers Purdy owned by Marco In the second show, with a 73 score, Sheri Mason Salvatori to the win. Elisa Artioli riding Tassa Mia closed in second place on Michael Harlev's Cat 012 closed in second. Onerey. F Andrea Favaretto and Lenas Startaz
Rosana Bembom and Smoking Spook
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Denis Pini and Stop Ur Hot
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2020 NCHA OF ITALY MATURITY & CHALLENGE FUTURITY Photos by Bonaga Communication | Edited Press Release
NCHA of Italy 2020 Maturity and Challenge Futurity In a particularly difficult moment NCHA of Italy was very proud to welcome a large number of contestants from all over Europe. It was not easy to re-plan all the events that were canceled during the lockdown and, for this reason, the association had to make choices, including that of combining two events as different as the Challenge Futurity and Maturity, typically hosted in March and September respectively.
Martina Annovazzi and Bet Adollar Or Candy
F
rom this show in particular, what emerged was that young horses competing in the Challenge Futurity demonstrated they were well trained and ready to compete against more experienced horses. Despite the long and difficult period, trainers continued working with passion making the less experienced horses even more ready and solid.
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The Open Challenge Futurity The Challenge Futurity Open Champion was Martina Annovazzi aboard owners Natasha and Tom Haas' Bet Adollar Or Candy with a score of 146.5, followed by Reserve Champion Denis Pini on Chiara Piazza's Almond Rey with a 145. "Another exciting adventure: This event!” said a very happy Annovazzi. “Earning the Challenge Futurity
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Denis Pini and Tassa Mia Cat 012
Open Championship with a 4year-old mare ‘trained in Italy’... well, it’s a huge satisfaction! Bet Adollar Or Candy is a mare born in Switzerland (Dual Spot Doll x Bet Hesa Cat), owned by Natasha and Tom, two of our very close customers, as well as dear friends. They believed in this filly and decided to take the long road to the Futurity putting their trust in me and giving me carte blanche, and I can only thank them from the bottom of my heart. 'Candy' has not always been what she has become. We had some bumps along the way because of her personality, which is not exactly the simplest but, starting from the 2019 Futurity until now, she’s grown a lot and has reached an excellent level of maturity, becoming very solid, fast and 'bright' on the cows.” The Non Pro Challenge Futurity In the Non Pro Challenge Futurity, despite a somewhat muted start, Federico Mainolfi on Babygoterboonjeanson scored a 144 and was crowned Champion, followed by Reserve Champion Marco Salvatori on Twisted Red Faye who closed with a 143. “From an organizational point of view, the Voghera event worked perfectly, starting from the ground to the cows which were excellent and, above all, considering the entries and over 80 booked stalls,” said Mainolfi. “Regarding my show, I'm honest, I have a special feeling with this mare and even though after the first go I was two points behind the top score, I absolutely didn't want to give up. In the second go I was first to go and my focus was to do very well. With a bit of luck, so it was…”
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The Maturity Open All Ages Claiming the Maturity Open All Ages Championship with a 147.5 was Denis Pini riding Elisa Artioli's Tassa Mia Cat 012, followed by Reserve Champions with a 147, Pietro Valeri and Marco Salvatori's Cat Rey Lou. Run in a single go, the $25,000 Maturity Limit Rider crown and reserve honor was for Alessandro Fulceri riding Marco Salvatori's American Cat Beauty and Federico Mainolfi's Babygoterboonjeanson respectively.
Federico Mainolfi and Babygoterboonjeanson
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2020 NCHA OF ITALY MATURITY & CHALLENGE FUTURITY
Alessandro Fulceri and American Cat Beauty
Martina Annovazzi and Twisted Red Faye
In the $5,000 Novice Horse Maturity Martina Annovazzi earned the Championship riding Marco Salvatori's Twisted Red Faye with a 147 score. CoReserve Champions, with a 144.5 score, were Gaetan Foulatier riding Mk Mickey Mouse owned by Florence Harache, and Gianluca Munarini riding Lil Drive Cat owned by Dagmar Sebelova.
The Maturity Non Pro All Ages Gaia Salvatori won the Maturity Non Pro Championship riding Marco Salvatori's Metallic Savanah with a 149 composite score, followed by Reserve Champion Andrea Pagani on Smartys Lil Cowboy and a 145.5. A huge composite score was for the Maturity
Gaia Salvatori and Metallic Savanah
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$50,000 Amateur Champion: Vincenzo Fontanili and Bearly A Cd Light who took the win with a 149.5 score. They were followed, with a 147, by Nicola Simone and Quixotes Pep Talk. Very happy and pleased was German Sandra Kaltschmidt who claimed the Maturity $15.000 Amateur Championship riding Sdp Driven Dee Cat to a 145 score. CoReserve Champions, with a 144, was Hansruedi Baumann riding Highbrowcd Is Playin and Elisa Artioli riding Cattamoola. An enthused Kaltschmidt shared: “The show in Voghera was very well organized. I never expected such a result. I do everything to improve and train more with Martina [Annovazzi] and Pietro [Valeri], my friends and trainers. I have a lot of fun and I really love cutting. The results for sure made me very happy and this is also thanks to my trainers and helpers who always do their best. Rosy O'Grasy's is my second family and I am very proud and happy to be able to participate in this discipline with them. Most of all I have to thank my
husband who does everything for me and for our hobby. He makes it all possible." The Maturity $2,000 Limit Rider/Any Horse podium was all-pink: Dagmar Sebelova from the Czech Republic won the championship riding Lil Drive Cat with a 141.5 score, followed by German Sandra Kaltschmidt riding Sdp Driven Dee Cat. “I simply fell in love with cutting at first sight!” said Sebelova. “I started riding at age ten but never dreamed of competing, as I am very afraid to do
Sandra Kaltschmidt and Sdp Driven Dee Cat
Dagmar Sebelova and Lil Drive Cat$
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Vincenzo Fontanili and Bearly A Cd Light
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so. I started showing when I was 40 and I literally fell in love with this discipline. Last November my friends and I visited Equita Lyon where, by chance, I saw the cutters fell back in love. We found ourselves in the right place at the right time; thanks to our friends we kept in touch with our great trainer Gianluca Munarini, to whom I’m so grateful. The whole family, my husband and my two daughters, who are my everything, and myself started cutting. In December last year we bought four horses, including my beautiful Lil Drive Cat ‘Lilo’ who I fell in love with immediately. Voghera was my third show with
him and I couldn't have dreamed better as he is perfectly trained with a lot of cow. Earning this Championship with 141.5 score was an incredible experience, reached with humility and passion. I am grateful, not only to my great coach and all his team, but also to my husband who shares the love for this sport with me. We will be even happier when our daughters will also start competing!” Giuseppe Zeni and Sdp Rubys Tr Cat, with a 71 score, were crowned $1,000 Amateur Maturity Champions followed by Reserve Champions Amedeo Micucci and Lenas Tazmania a point behind. Lisa Brunelli rode Martin Luther Cat to a 71 score. Not only was it her first time showing, she also claimed her first major event Championship: The Novice Riders Maturity. Reserve honors went to Michele Menegatti riding Cee Sophi Kat who closed with a 70 score 70. The NCHA of Italy Non Pro Jackpot was all about Marco Salvatori, who placed first aboard Twisted Red Faye with a 72 score and also took reserve honors on Juniper Cd a point behind. F
Giuseppe Zeni and Sdp Rubys Tr Cat
Lisa Brunelli and Martin Luther Cat
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Marco Salvatori and Twisted Red Faye
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA DERBY
It’s Big Time
WATCH THE RUN
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Show Time!
ERCHA/NRCHA Derby & Pre Futurity Smart Play Wyatt rides Giovanni Campanaro to the Pre Futurity and Derby Open Championships; Eliane Gfeller and CR Rosie The Riveter take the Non Pro Derby title; and Alessandro Tugnoli riding Smarttarisdeal claims the Pre Futurity Non Pro Championship. • IHP - YEAR IN REVIEW • 133
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ERCHA/NRCHA Open Derby The high temperature in Travagliato, Italy, where the ERCHA Derby and Pre Futurity was held, provided hot competition in the show pen as well. With a 30% increase in entries from last year’s edition, the three days of competition brought the ERCHA family back together and also welcomed European cutters who took the opportunity to show in the herd work classes. “This is really the first show of the year so it’s a great opportunity to go out,” said Professional Sheri Mason who took home the Herd Work All Ages Open win riding Michael and Dafna Harlev’s Onerey. “This mare is really gritty, super athletic, she’s got a huge stop and a lot of cow but she hasn’t been to a show since November last year. Her owners are from Israel and, because of the lock down, they haven’t been able to come and are hoping to be able to in September in Cremona.”
T
he intense days of showing closed with the crowning of the ERCHA/NRCHA Derby Champions. Stealing the show was 4-yearold Smart Play Wyatt (ANS Wyatt Pepp x Lady Hollywood Mr) owned by Baldino Cioffi who scored a 296.5 composite (prelims: herd work 73, rein work 73, fence work 74.5) and closed with a breath-taking performance in the fence work final paid back by the judges with a 76 score. In the saddle, 29-yearold Professional Giovanni Campanaro who has had the stallion in training since December 2019. “He is simply a great horse,” said the Italian trainer. “This is our first show together and, even though we knew the competition here would have been tough, he has been so consistent during the training and so good minded—plus he is so flashy and captures everyone’s attention when he’s showing.” Campanaro went on to credit the stallion’s willingness to give all he has all the time, thanks to his big heart. Backing up his words were the facts: The pair not only took the Open Derby title, the day before they also claimed the Open Pre Futurity. Making the double win twice as sweet was the fact that Campanaro also rode Cute Little Tassa (Tassas Aristocrat x Cute And Cash) owned by Lotte Sibilla Anoardo, to the Open Derby Reserve Championship with a 73.5 score in the fence work final earning a total composite of 292.5 (prelims: herd work 72.5, rein work 72.5, fence work 74).
Sheri Mason and Onerey
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA DERBY
Giovanni Campanaro and Smart Play Wyatt
It was all about veterans Ricky Bordignon and Maik Bartman in the Limited Open Derby Finals. Riding Kib Taita Boonsmall (Redwhiteandblueboon x Sweet Popper Girl), owned by Omar Paganin, Bordignon earned a 286.5 composite (herd work 71.5, rein work 72, fence work 72.5 in the prelims) and closed the deal, which earned him the Championship, with a 70.5 in the fence work final.
“This horse has so much power,” said Bordignon about his horse. “He’s still a little green even though I found out here that in the show pen he’s even better than how he performs at home. This was his first major event and, though he still needs to learn to handle his strength when showing, I like him a lot because he covers the ground and truly reads the cows.” Bordignon was also quick to credit ERCHA’s organizational talent, the great atmosphere there always is, and the fact that all the European riders want to be at the events put together by the European association. “It’s always a lot of fun and I love it,” he added. Taking reserve honors was Maik Bartmann riding Millenium Boompepp (Mifillenium x OT Boompepp) owned by Soc. Agr. Le Fattorie Di Matilde. The pair scored a 285 composite (prelims: herd work 71, rein work 71, fence work 70) and closed with a 73 score in the fence work. F Ricky Bordignon and Kib Taita Boonsmall
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#Backstage
Enrico Righetti, Judge
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ERCHA/NRCHA Non Pro & Intermediate Non Pro Derby WATCH THE RUN
It was a great comeback for Eliane Gfeller and her mother’s (Kaethi) CR Rosie The Riveter (Woody Be Tuff x Gypsy Rose Rey). After leaving their mark at the 2019 edition of AMERICANA, the duo landed in Travagliato and took off to go back home with both the Non Pro and Intermediate Derby Championships. “When we won at AMERICANA, I had only had her for a few weeks,” said the young rider. “Since then, thanks to my husband’s help [Chris Seiler], I’ve really learnt to trust her and we have become a team. She’s a really great and solid horse, and does well in all the three disciplines, even though her best trait is the fact that she is amazing on the cow and easy to ride.”
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Eliane Gfeller and CR Rosie The Riveter
The duo, closed the prelims with a 216 (herd work 73, rein work 71.5, fence work 71.5) and a fantastic fence work final worth a 74 to a total 290.5 composite. Sharing the Reserve Championship with a 288.5 total composite, were the 2019 AMERICANA Non Pro Futurity Champions, Lorenzo Sivori riding his own Duallanx Mr (Dual Marquis Diamond x HB Luna Lanx) with a composite score 213.5 in the prelims (herd work 70, rein work 73.5, fence work 70) and a 75 in the fence work finals, and GabrielePoli Barberis riding Snapper Solano
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Lorenzo Sivori and Duallanx Mr
(Magical Snapper x Hubba Dancer), owned by Az. Agricola Samisa Ranch. The young rider had scored a 213.5 composite (prelims: herd work 71, rein work 70.5, fence work 72) and an outstanding 75 score in the fence work final. Sarah Destefanis riding her own Hot As Wasabi (Little Dulces Rey x Whirlacat), closed with a 283 composite score (prelims: herd work 72, rein work 64, fence work 73) after coming back strong with a 73
in the fence work finals to take home the Novice Amateur Derby title. “This mare comes from the States and has always been at Giovanni’s [Campanaro] training facility where I ride,” said Destefanis. “I’ve always had my eyes on her and when her owner decided to sell her, Giovanni — my boyfriend — gave her to me for my birthday. I only started riding her a couple of months ago, since I couldn’t go ride her during the lockdown, so I wasn’t too sure whether I would be ready to show her here. She was fantastic for me, helped me a lot, and am thrilled with this unexpected result. I cannot thank Giovanni enough for everything.” Second place honors were for Andrea Ambrogiani riding his own Me To The Light (Me To The Bar x Lynx Star Light), to a 278 total composite score (herd work 69, rein work 67.5, fence work 70.5 and a 71 in the fence work final). F
Sarah Destefanis and Hot As Wasabi
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA PRE FUTURITY
ERCHA/NRCHA Open Pre Futurity
B
ehind the Pre Futurity Open Champions, Giovanni Campanaro and Smart Play Wyatt, was ERCHA President Markus Schopfer riding HipCat (Metallic Cat x Hip Hip Sue Rey) owned by Yvonne Bonda. The duo closed with a 216.5 composite (rein work 72, fence work 73.5, herd work 71) and scored a 75 in the fence work finals. “I got this horse this year,” says Schopfer about the 4year-old stallion. “Yvone [Bonda] had asked me last year to look for a good performer for her and we purchased him from [NRCHA Two Million Dollar Rider] Todd Crawford after the NRCHA Futurity last year where he placed ninth in the Open. I liked the horse a lot and love working with Todd as he is a true horseman and professional. This was our first horse
show together and it was a place to start knowing each other. I did not know what his reaction in the show pen with me in the saddle would be and I can for sure say I am very happy! I loved everything about him and would like to thank Yvonne for the trust!” Taking home the ERCHA/NRCHA Pre Futurity Limited Open Championship with a 213 composite score (rein work 70.5, fence work 70.5, herd work 72) was Federico Fanti riding Just Sparkling Kid (SDP Justice Is Comin x Miss Puro Kid), owned by Ilaria Traverso. “I am thrilled with this result because this is my second show in this discipline and my first major event,” said Fanti who, until last year mainly rode and showed cutters. “I have had this mare in
Markus Schopfer and HipCat
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA PRE FUTURITY
training from October 2019 and the way she showed in the Pre Futurity and in the Derby fills me with joy. She is really talented and has all one needs to be a good cow horse. We are now looking forward to the Autumn Show and Futurity and in taking part in the shows next year.” Reserve honors were for Marine Richard riding Catwoman Peptos (Peptos Lil Bingo x Jamie Handy Cat), owned by Nathalie Thenoz, with a 209.5 composite score (rein work 69.5, fence work 72, herd work 68). F The first event of the season was absolutely fantastic,” said ERCHA President Schopfer. “Even though the temperatures were high, the atmosphere was phenomenal and the riders were great, not only in the show arena but also behind the scenes where they always made sure their horses were well taken care of. I would like to thank everyone with a special thank you to the great team, headed by our vice president Otto De Fazio, that worked endless hours to make this show the great one it turned out to be.”
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Federico Fanti and Just Sparkling Kid
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ERCHA/NRCHA Non Pro Pre Futurity WATCH THE RUN
Alessandro Tugnoli and Smarttarisdeal
The win was twice as sweet for Alessandro Tugnoli who took both the Non Pro Pre Futurity Championship and Reserve Championship. He rode his own Smarttarisdeal (Smart Easy Deal x OT Taris Peppy) to a 212 composite score (rein work 71, fence work 71, herd work 70) to the win and placed second with The One Dark Deal (Smart Easy Deal x Miss Mify Olena), a half-a-point behind (rein work 70.5, fence work 72.5, herd work 68.5). “I am thrilled because both these horses
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were born at our place — a small facility near Treviso — and are out of two mares we own,” said the Italian surgeon. “I broke them and then handed the reins over to Pietro Tuberga who trained them. I keep them at home and ride them in my free time — they are my life in fact, after work, that’s where I spend all my time!” Because of the worldwide health situation, and the fact that this was the first show offered this year, the two placings made Tugnoli twice as happy.
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Gabriele Poli Barberis and Purrsuasion
WATCH THE RUN
ERCHA/NRCHA Intermediate Non Pro Pre Futurity Gabriele Poli Barberis, riding Purrsuasion (Meteles Cat x Spooks Twilight), owned by Az. Agricola Samisa Ranch, closed with a 211 composite score (rein work 67, fence work 72.5, herd work 71.5) to win the first major event of the season. “We purchased
this mare as a yearling in the U.S. and then we shipped her over to Italy,” said Poli Barberis. “My dad trained her and would let me ride her at home. We got on really well and in the end he said I could start showing her. She’s only 3-years-old but she is really solid and I trust her completely. Winning here is the best thing that could happen to me this year!” Clinching reserve honors, with a 199 composite score (rein work 64, fence work 72, herd work 63), was Matteo Ambrosini Nobili riding his own LF Double Lynx (Double R Chant x Lynx Little Pepper).
Vera Walliser and CD Fortunate Son
ERCHA Novice Amateur Pre Futurity Vera Walliser riding her own CD Fortunate Son (Metallic Cat x CDS Lucky Gal), closed with a 202.5 composite score (rein work 63.5, fence work 72, herd work 67). “Even though I was the only one in this division, I am really happy with the way my horse went. It’s the first show of the season and as always, it’s a joy to be around this horse. He is so friendly; he’s like a little dog and always gives me his heart!” said Walliser. “Of course I would like to thank my trainer, Markus Schopfer, for doing such a great job with him.” Once the sun went down behind the Palacittá arena in Travagliato on Sunday evening, horses, riders, owners and fans left with a smile and joy… the joy of being able to share special moments with their horses together! F
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#Backstage
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA FUTURITY & AUTUMN SHOW
ERCHA/NRCHA Futurity and Autumn Show The European Reined Cow Horse Association (ERCHA) closed the short but intense show season with the ERCHA/NRCHA Futurity and Autumn Show and once again offered great competition in a family atmosphere.
Giovanni Campanaro and Cap Bet Aristo Cat
I
t was a One Man Show for Giovanni Campanaro who took the $15,000added ERCHA/NRCHA OKAMI Ranch Open Futurity title riding Cap Bet Aristo Cat, tied for the Reserve Championship with Shesa Genuinelypepto and qualified six horses for the Finals! The spotlight was on Italian Professional Giovanni Campanaro in Travagliato, Italy, where the European Reined Cow Horse (ERCHA)/National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Cow Work Futurity Finals were held.
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WATCH THE RUN
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Photos by Dead or Alive IHP Press Release
Open to 3-and -4-year-old horses shown twohanded in a snaffle-bit or hackamore, and with six horses qualified for the Open Finals, Campanaro had little time to think, but enough to focus on bringing home the Championship, Co-Reserve Championship, as well as fourth, fifth, sixth, and tie-seventh place. With Cap Bet Aristo Cat (Playful Bet x Smart Swingin Babe) owned by Western Ranch 20 13 between the reins, the Italian professional closed the cow work with a 148, which brought his total composite score to a 583. The duo had finished off on in second place on Saturday with a 435 composite (reined work 141.5; fence work 147; herd work 146.5). “My horse is a 4-year-old stallion by Playful Bet. He came back to my program about three months ago,” said Campanaro. “I broke him as a 2-year-old and managed him until he was three then, just before leaving for the United States where I went to Corey Cushing’s, I sold him. He was shown at last year’s AMERICANA Futurity after which he didn’t do anything until just recently when, together with the owner, we decided to put him back in training. Honestly, we did not expect this great result because though we knew he was very good horse, we did not expect him to be able to hold-up such a long show with a high level of competition. He was actually perfect from day one! I showed eight horses here at the Futurity: Three 4-year-olds and five 3-year-olds — all different ages and, of course, different management. My training program is more or less the same for all the horses; it differentiates according to each individual horses’ requirements.” After this show, said Campanaro, he, his team and the horses deserve a little rest. “This year was difficult for several reasons and especially for the 3-year-old horses it was not easy as they had to compete against very strong and talented 4-yearold horses,” he added. “At the same time for the 4-year-olds, who were showed in the Derby just
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Markus Schopfer and HipCat
over a month ago, returning into the program for this show was not easy, now it will take at least a month of well-deserved rest.” A half-a-point behind, tying for reserve honors, was Campanaro aboard Shesa Genuinelypepto (Oaks Lone Pepto x Genuinely Snapper), owned by Loris Paone, and veteran Markus Schopfer riding HipCat (Metallic Cat x Hip Hip Sue Rey) owned by Yvonne Bonda. The first had closed third in the prelims with a 433.5 composite (reined work 141.5; fence work 146.5; herd work 145.5), while Schopfer was leading with a 441 (reined work 145.5; fence work 145.5; herd work 145.5). “My horse showed great and once again proved he’s the amazing horse he is,” said Schopfer. “The great blood line running in his veins is true to his athletic ability!”
OKAMI Ranch ERCHA/NRCHA Limited Open Futurity Federico Fanti and Just Sparkling Kid (SDP Justice Is Comin x Miss Puro Kid) owned by Ilaria Traverso took the $1,500-added 2020 OKAMI Ranch ERCHA/NRCHA Limited Open Futurity Championship with a total 576.5 after closing the cow work with a 147.5 score. The pair was leading the prelims with a 429 composite (reined work 139; fence work 146; herd work, 144) and went on to
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hold it until the Championship title was theirs! “This is a difficult mare…but not in a negative sense,” said Fanti. “She’s very athletic and always ready to go which, at the end of the day, makes her a champion. She’s always focused and has a lot of cow sense, therefore always there to ‘hook’ the cow. This kind of hurts her in the rein work, because she thinks so far ahead, and that’s the reason we started off a little weak in the first prelim. When she’s in front of a cow she stays right there and puts all her energy into what she’s doing.” For Fanti – a ‘cutter’ by profession - this second special event of the year, and of his career in the reined cow horse world, is particularly sweet and, he gives credit to two of his mentors: Giovanni Campanaro and Markus Schopfer. “Giovanni and
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Federico Fanti and Just Sparkling Kid
I really get along well together and we look forward to more work on the cow horse scene next year,” he added. “Giovanni and Markus are two legends and have taught me a lot. Giovanni and I are the same age, we met here last year and hit it off immediately.” Fresh off his win, Fanti added with a smile and determination: “We both work for the same goals and for each other but, above all, we want to win!” The Reserve Championship in the Limited Open was for French Marine Richard riding Catwoman Peptos (Peptos Lil Bingo x Jamie Handy Cat) owned by Nathalie Thenoz. The duo had scored a composite of 422.5 in the prelims (rein work 134.5; fence work 144.5; herd work 143.5). They closed with a 144.5 in the cow work bringing their composite to a 567.
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA FUTURITY & AUTUMN SHOW
ERCHA/NRCHA Non Pro and Amateur Futurity Sweeping the $3,000-added 2020 Seiler Quarter Horses ERCHA/NRCHA Non Pro and $500-added Amateur Futurity was Claudio Ferrami and his own SA Ret Hickory N San (Ret Great N San x Hickory Sanote) who took both titles after closing with a 427 composite score (rein work 140; herd work 142; fence work 145), and a final 142 in the cow work on Sunday. "The horse was bred by Andrea Sanfelici and the funny fact about him is that I bought him ... twice!” said a thrilled Ferrami. “The first time, after a few months of riding him, since we didn’t have that feeling I was looking for, I sold him to carry on working another mare that I had to stop due to an injury. As I was looking for a substitute to ride and show, among Andrea’s [Sanfelici] choices, there was still SA Ret Hickory N San and so I insisted on buying him back and today this choice paid off! The horse is an 100% ‘Made In Italy’ product, trained by me, and
this makes me even more proud of the result.” Ferrami credits Italian professional Federico Fanti who helps him in the herd work and Andrea Sanfelici in the reining and fence work. “This horse has enough cow sense to work well in the herd work,” said Fanti. “I had him in training for two years when he was owned by Andrea to work on the cow part and the horse was always a good prospect to work with. He has proven to have the skills to become a 360 degree cow horse. He’s an extremely sensitive horse so he must be ridden by a non-pro as sensitive as Claudio is.” Andrea Sanfelici added that they always believed in this horse. “He is by my stallion Ret Great N San and one of my mares,” he said. “We knew he could become a good cow horse and he proved us right! Earning the Reserve Championship in the Non Pro division was Alessandro Tugnoli with his The One Dark Deal (Smart Easy Deal x Miss Mify Olena ). The pair had closed the prelims with the second-highest
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Claudio Ferrami and Ret Hickory N San
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA FUTURITY & AUTUMN SHOW
composite 425.5 (rein work 141, herd work 142, fence work 142.5), and scored a 140 in the cow work finals. In the Amateur Futurity, reserve honors were for Jean Luc Renaud and Mega Peptos (Peptos Lil Bingo x To Much Powered) who had closed the prelims with a composite 422.5 (rein work 142, herd work 139, fence work 141.5) and a 142.5 in the cow work finals. The duo also took third place honors in the Non Pro division.
first Futurity, the 15-year-old who started riding at a very young age, was quick to credit his parents for his success. “I love this discipline because it’s complete and gets the adrenalin going. I love performing and watching…in particular the fence work because it’s the one that implies the most work!” he said. “It’s my first year showing in the special events and showing 3-year-olds. When you ride a finished horse, it’s one thing because they take care of you. With young horses, you need to help them and after that they help you. My dad Gabriele Poli Barberis: helped me a lot of course, and at this point of my The rising star of the show Gabriele Poli Barberis rode Purrsuasion (Meteles show career without him it wouldn’t be possible to Cat x Spooks Twilight) owned by Azienda Agricola be here. He helps me a lot and we are very close so Samisa Ranch to the 2020 ERCHA Non Pro everything comes naturally. He is a real all-around Limited Futurity Championship. Born in a true professional and I love the way he rides and trains horse family — his father is renowned Italian his horses. With his program, the finished horses professional Samuele Poli Barberis, and his are solid and serene. I made the Amateur Finals as mother, Elisa, is the heart of their Samisa Ranch — well with both my mares who are very different: Gabriele claims that showing in the reined cow the roan mare [Purssuasion], who we started, is horse world was meant to be. Excited about his more relaxed but when it’s time to go she gives you everything. The paint - AK Ret N Snap (Ret N Dry x ARC San Snap) who we got at the Gabriele Poli Barberis beginning of the year — is and Purrsuasion very ‘hot,’ always ready to go, and needs to be calmed down but fun to ride! It was a fun show and I knew we could go home with a result, but there are so many variables in this sport you never know!” WATCH THE RUN
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WATCH THE RUN Markus Schopfer and Oh Cay Mc
“These are two exceptional horses and I am very fortunate to be able to train and show them,” said Schopfer who was quick to thank the owners for their trust in his program. Taking the $200-added OKAMI Markus Schopfer and Oh Cay Mc are the Ranch ERCHA/ NRCHA Autumn Show Limited $2,500-added ERCHA/NRCHA Open Championship was Ricky Bordignon and Kib Taita Boonsmall (Redwhiteandblueboon x Sweet Autumn Show Open Champions Markus Schopfer and Oh Cay MC (Metallic Cat x Oh Popper Girl) owned by Omar Paganin with a 424 Cay Meriah) owned by Silverstone Ranch set the composite score (rein work 140.5; fence work 140; highest score — a 147 — in the first prelim of the herd work 143.5). ERCHA/NRCHA Autumn Show Open: the rein work. The dynamic duo held on to the top score of Ricky Bordignon and Kib Taita Boonsmall the day in the herd work where they held that cow and closed with a 144. In the fence work they once again showed off their talent and kept the fans glued to their seats and, when all was said and done, a 150 appeared on the score-board bringing their total composite to a 441 and the Championship! Schopfer also claimed WATCH THE RUN reserve honors with HipCat with a total composite score of 436.5 (145.5 in the rein work, herd work and fence work) and also went on to take reserve honors in the Futurity the following day.
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2020 ERCHA | NRCHA FUTURITY & AUTUMN SHOW
WATCH THE RUN
WATCH THE RUN
Eliane Gfeller and CR Rosie The Riveter
It was a win for Eliane Gfeller and CR Rosie The Riveter (Woody Be Tuff x Gypsy Rose Rey) owned by Kaethi Gfeller in the $500-added Seiler Quarter Horses ERCHA/NRCHA Autumn Show Non Pro & $100-added Amateur. The pair closed with a 432.5 composite (rein work 142; fence work 144.5; herd work 146). In the 2020 Seiler Quarter Horses ERCHA/NRCHA Autumn Show Non Pro Limited Championship Sarah Destefanis and her own Hot As Wasabi (Little Dulces Rey x Whirlacat)
Sarah Destefanis and Hot As Wasabi
closed with a 433.5 composite (rein work 139.5; fence work 147; herd work 147) to take the win. The Autumn Show is open to 4- and 5-year-old horses shown two-handed in a snaffle-bit or hackamore following rider eligibility in all the divisions. F
The race for the very first buckle — offered by RopinK Challenge - 2020 in collaboration with partner International Horse Press — offered to the Highest Scoring Lady in the 2020 ERCHA - National Reined Cow Horse Association Futurity was a tight one! Tying for the highest score - a 144.5 - were Marine Richard and Eliane Gfeller. They decided to literally 'RUN' for the buckle and, taking the buckle home was Marine Richard!
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2020 NFR | PRCA WORLD CHAMPIONS
#rodeoworld
2020 PRCA World Champions NFR Highlights
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Photos by © PRCA Edited Press Release
The Wrangler® National Finals Rodeo (NFR) moved to Texas for 2020’s biggest event in ProRodeo. Arlington’s Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers, hosted the renowned event.
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2020 NFR | PRCA WORLD CHAMPIONS
Stetson Wright wins two World titles at 2020 Wrangler NFR After winning the all-around World Championship, Stetson Wright returned to end in fitting fashion as he split first with a 92-point ride on Bar T Rodeo’s Angel’s Landing to win the bull riding World Championship. “I was in the race for the all-around and to come out on top I was at a loss for words, I was star struck to beat guys I look up to,” said Wright. “Winning the all-around World title meant so much to me, but to win it again feels better for the simple fact that people might say I was lucky my first time. Maybe they’ll still think so, but it doesn’t change the fact that I got what I wanted, so
I’m just happy to be here.” Wright has won back-to-back all-around World Championships – the first to do so since Trevor Brazile in 2014 and 2015. In the bull riding, Wright finished with $267,941, edging Wallace —who came in with $256,599 — clinching his inaugural bull riding World title by placing second in the average with 539 points on six head. Wallace was third in the average with 533.5 points on six. Colten Fritzlan won the average with 605 points on seven. “It was crazy. They all rode phenomenally,” Wright said. “Every guy did this week, but it was crazy to come out on top. This is what I live for.”
Stetson Wright, 2020 All-Around World Champion and Bull Riding World Champion
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Kaycee Feild becomes third bareback rider to win five World titles Feild won his fifth bareback World Championship and first since 2014 with a 91-point ride on Stace Smith Pro Rodeos’ Junior Bonner on a re-ride. “I’m trying to block it all out before I start crying when I see my family,” Feild said. “This is pretty special. I have a lot to say, but I don’t even know where to begin. I’m really excited.” Feild finished first in the world standings with $277,648. Tim O’Connell finished second with $270,991. The difference in the World title was Feild who placed second in the average with 849.5 points on 10 head earning $54,576, while O’Connell was third in the average with 847.5 points and earned $43,154. Feild, who also won World Championships in 2011-2014, is tied with ProRodeo Hall of Famers Joe Alexander and Bruce Ford with the most bareback riding World titles in PRCA history.
Stetson Wright, 2020 All-Around World Champion and Bull Riding World Champion
Kaycee Feild, Bareback Riding World Champion
Saddle bronc rider Ryder Wright captures second World title Ryder Wright split Round 10 win with a 91-point ride on Pete Carr Pro Rodeo’s Big Texas to catapult to the World and Average Championships. He also won a
#StetsonWrightRecord At 21, Wright is the youngest cowboy to be crowned All-Around World Champion in his first two seasons. He became the first cowboy to win the all-around gold buckle and a Roughstock World Championship in the same year since Ty Murray in 1998. Murray won the all-around and bull riding titles that year. “That’s what I always wanted growing up, to be one of the best cowboys to ever live,” Wright said. “That means a lot to hear people talk that highly about me. It makes me feel lucky and happy to be where I’m at.”
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2020 NFR | PRCA WORLD CHAMPIONS
world title in 2017. “[This feels] twice as good,” Wright said. “That horse has been around forever. I remember my dad [Cody] got on that horse when I was little. I think he’s like 20 years old. Super happy to have him.” By splitting the go-round with his brother Stetson, Ryder finished with five go-round wins. He tied the PRCA record for most saddle bronc riding wins at the NFR for the second time in his career, doing it first in 2016. He shares the record with Billy Etbauer (1992, 1999, and 2005) and Dan Mortensen (1998). He also established a saddle bronc riding average record at the NFR with 876.5 points on 10 head. “I had an awesome week,” Ryder said. “Couldn’t have drawn any better than I did. That’s a huge part in winning World titles, drawing good horses. I was confident and just let it play out, and it worked out in my favor.”
every dollar. “It means the world to me,” Mayfield said. “It’s something I wanted growing up, it’s been a dream of mine. I had a great year coming in, the best year I could ever imagine having. I had a rough Finals and I don’t think I roped to my full capability and I knew Mayfield holds on to win first gold buckle it could go either way. I knew I needed to make my Tie-down roper Shad Mayfield had a forgetful 2020 best run (in Round 10). I really didn’t think I’d won Wrangler NFR, placing in just two rounds and the World walking out of there but then they told me, registering six no-times. But Mayfield rode a and it’s a great feeling.” huge regular-season performance to finish atop Team roping partners Lovell, Eaves the World standings with $198,399, just $231 more than second-place Marty Yates. win World titles Mayfield came into the NFR with an $89,479 With a World Championship in reach, team lead over his nearest competitor, and he needed ropers Colby Lovell and Paul Eaves won Round 10 with a 4.4-second run to capture the World Championship gold buckles. Lovell finished with $187,836 in the World standings, defeating second-place Luke Brown by $453. Eaves finished with $178,486, edging runner-up Payden Bray by $2,983. “It was crucial. We had to win the round to win the World,” Eaves said. Despite the magnitude of the moment in Round 10 Lovell stayed calm. “Everything this week we’ve been through, with the ups and downs and trying to stay focused, do our job and being fortunate enough here at the end, I didn’t have any jitters,” Lovell said. “If it Ryder Wright, Saddle Bronc Riding World Champion
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Shad Mayfield, Tie Down Roping World Champion
came together, it came together. Paul heeled the fire out of the steer!” Eaves said he and Lovell tried to keep things simple in Round 10. “When we were here Friday, we saw the standings, and the average plays such a big part in this deal that nobody ever wins the World without at least some average money,” Eaves said. “I guess it wasn’t entirely in our hands, we had to do the best we could do, and it had to fall right, but it was exciting all day knowing we had a chance.”
Edler wins World in Wrangler NFR debut Steer wrestler Jacob Edler will never forget his first trip to the Wrangler NFR. He clocked a 3.9second time to place fourth in the final round and win the average and World Championships. Edler finished with $200,510 in the World standings to edge Stetson Jorgensen, who had $198,830. He won the average with a 43.4second time on 10 head. Jorgenson was second at 43.7 seconds but had a 5.0-second run and failed to place in Round 10. “I’m still trying to make everything come to reality right now,” Edler said. “I’ve wanted this so bad and I’ve worked so hard the last six years. Coming into my first NFR and doing this
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#ThoseSmiles
2020 NFR | PRCA WORLD CHAMPIONS
Jacob Edler, Steer Wrestling World Champion
line out perfectly, and it ended up perfectly. Stetson’s such a great competitor, he got a little bit of a bad draw today and I am ever-so grateful for him letting me ride his horse. There’s is no way I could ever have done this.”
Kinsel finishes record-setting NFR with third World title Hailey Kinsel now has three barrel racing World titles, and all three over the last three seasons. The cowgirl won five rounds and placed in eight to finish with $349,076 in the PRCA | RAM World Standings of which $270,615 at the NFR…a barrel racing record. Kinsel also won the RAM Top Gun is unbelievable. I was a little bit of an underdog Award, which goes to the contestant who wins so I knew that I really needed to take as much the most money in any single event at the start as I could at that steer and have everything Wrangler NFR.
Colby Lovell and Paul Eaves, Team Roping World Champion
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#Candids “They’re all so equally different in so many ways,” Kinsel said about her World titles. “The first one being a dream that you know is there. The second being you know what it really feels like. The third, being this year and being as crazy as it was, it was more than just a want. It doesn’t fulfill everything for you, it doesn’t just completely bring you all the joy in the world, but it dang sure helps. To be able to pull it off this year with all the craziness and the hard times we went through and to be able to do something so awesome here is not something I could have planned.” Kinsel also knows she has a superstar horse in Sister. “They ask if she knows how special she is, and absolutely she knows she’s special to me, but I don’t think she knows she’s done a great thing,” Kinsel added. “I think she just has a great time. That, for me, is the most important thing. She loves it, she continues to love it, she has a blast out there. She doesn’t do it for anything I do it for: She does it because she thinks I asked her to and she likes me.” F
Hailey Kinsel, Barrel Racing World Champion
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