December 2017 Volume 1 Issue 5
The Journal
Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association
Meet Two of Our 2017 World Grand Champs CIA and Lady Antebellum
December 2017 Volume 1 Issue 5 1
THE JOURNAL is the official publication of the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association
Contents
4 Meet CIA and Lady Antebellum By: Jen Gaffke 6 Affiliate News By: Leslie White 8 Three National Champions
By: Bill & Jeannie Hinkenbein
11 Hall of Fame 2017
By: Nikki Ogle
16 MFTHBA Launches New Program 17 MFTHBA Partner Organizations 21 Foxtrotters of the Past: Lady Anne F-2555
By: Clyde and Samantha Connelly 23 Classifieds
MFTHBA PO Box 1027 Ava, MO 65608 Phone: 417-683-2468 Email: foxtrot@mfthba.com Officers and Board of Directors President Aaron Stanifer Fordland, MO 417-838-2019 aaronstanifer@aol.com Vice President Lisa Cantrell Conway, MO 417-533-9354 cantrellstables@gmail.com Secretary-Treasurer Jeff Shields Ash Grove, MO 417-274-4595 jeffs@totalhighspeed.com Director Region #1 Michelle Hodges Idaho Falls, Idaho 801-718-7074 cheller2003@yahoo.com
Director Region #8 Jennifer West Shelbyville, IL 217-454-1761 shameless3500@yahoo.com
Director Region #2 Dennis Bromley Highland, UT 801-541-0391 onemanranch@gmail.com
Director Region #9 Beverly Frizzell 870-715-0066 beverlyfrizzell7@gmail.com
Director Region #3 James Stone Whitney, Texas 214-929-0205 james@twinstarfarms.com
Director Region #10 Ross Harper Ocala, FL 352-843-3427 harper4807@yahoo.com
Director Region #4 Amber Wilson Bonner Springs, KS 816-806-9374 akwilson129@gmail.com Director Region #5 Ted Nichols Ozark, MO 417-581-2657 horseman9953@live.com Director Region #6 Eddie Moore Lebanon, MO 417-850-8558 rgn6fxtrt@yahoo.com Disclaimer Articles that appear in The Journal do not necessarily reflect the position or opinion of the MFTHBA, nor its employees, nor does the publication of said articles constitute an endorsement of views that they may express. Appearance of an advertisement in The Journal does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement by the MFTHBA. The Journal shall not be reproduced in any form or manner without prior written agreement. The Journal will not be held responsible for any typing errors or omissions other than a correction in the next available issue.
Director Region #7 Gale Thompson West Plains, MO 417-505-9419 gtstables@centurytel.net
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For advertising and editorial content in The Journal contact: Jen Gaffke * Cell 417-225-0588 blossomridgefarm@gmail.com Deadlines Advertising and editorial deadline is the 5th of the month prior to publication month.
high up to 10Hz; flux density o Blanket Wrap (4lbs) TECHNOLOGY: at the highest setting and the Leg /Spot Cuff Treatment Belt • PEMF signal • Up to 20 15-minute (300 mins Carrying Case • ADDITIONAL patented BEMER signal that stimulates microci that encompasses and permeates your animal Universal Power Adapter SIMPLE & EFFECTIVE: • Tested and used with NASA in Space 3 Year Warranty • interwoven Resilient and to clean • High-tech patented coil fibers into easy the blanket Manufactured in Liechtenstein/Swiss • tailored Batterytherapy and Control Unit integ • Three different programs with intensities from Allows horse to roam during high up to 10Hz; flux density• or max micro Tesla on the cuff ist TECHNOLOGY: at the highest setting and the blanket the max is 35 micro Tes • Intuitive and simple operation Tony Hammock | www.Hammock.Bemergroup.com | anthony.hammock@bemermail.com • PEMF signal • Up to 20that 15-minute (300 mins.) battery charg • applications 3 high-qualityper adjustable fixati • ADDITIONAL patented BEMER signal stimulates microcirculation BEMER VET BUNDLE ($4,950):that encompasses and permeates your animal • Optimum size adaptation for e • Blanket Wrap (4lbs) • Tested and used with NASA SIMPLE & EFFECTIVE: in Space • Leg /Spot Cuff Treatment Belt • interwoven Resilient and to clean • High-tech patented coil fibers into easy the blanket • Carrying Case • tailored Batterytherapy and Control Unit integrated • Three different programs with intensities from low towirelessly on Blanket and • Universal Power Adapter • Allows horse to roam during treatment high up to 10Hz; flux density or max micro Tesla on the cuff is 100 • 3 Year Warranty at the highest setting and the theand maxsimple is 35 operation micro Tesla • blanket Intuitive • Manufactured in Liechtenstein/Swiss • Up to 20 15-minute (300 mins.) battery charge • 3applications high-qualityper adjustable fixation straps TECHNOLOGY: • Optimum size adaptation for each horse • PEMF signal SIMPLE & EFFECTIVE: • ADDITIONAL patented BEMER signal that stimulates • Resilient and easy to clean microcirculation that encompasses and permeates your animal • Battery and Control Unit integrated wirelessly on Blanket and Cuff • Tested and used with NASA in Space • Allows horse to roam during treatment • High-tech patented coil fibers interwoven into the blanket • Intuitive and simple operation • Three different programs with tailored therapy intensities from low POSITIVE EFFECTS OF THE BEMER • 3 high-quality adjustable fixation straps to high up to 10Hz; flux density or max micro Tesla on the cuff is 100 APPLICATION • Optimum size adaptation for each horse at the highest setting and the blanket the max is 35 micro Tesla the parasympathetic nervous system • Stimulates • Up to 20 15-minute (300 mins.) applications per battery charge • • • • • •
• Promotes recovery and regeneration
SIMPLE EFFECTIVE: • Reduces & muscular damage
• Regeneration of muscle tissue • Resilient and easy to clean • Supports faster recovery after an injury or strain • Battery and Control Unit integrated wirelessly on Blanket and Cuff • Supports healthy joint function and reduces joint • Allows horse to roam during treatment inflammation • Reduces stress (during transportation or competitions) • Intuitive and simple operation • Aids in the tranquility and comfort • 3 high-quality adjustable fixation straps • Improves water storage in the tissue for more efficient hydration • Optimum size adaptation for each horse • Promotes healthy digestion • Maintains optimum health
POSITIVE EFFECTS OF THE BEMER APPLICATION
• Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system • Promotes recovery and regeneration • Reduces muscular damage • Regeneration of muscle tissue • Supports faster recovery after an injury or strain • Supports healthy joint function and reduces joint inflammation • Reduces stress (during transportation or competitions) • Aids in the tranquility and comfort • Improves water storage in the tissue for more efficient hydration • Promotes healthy digestion • Maintains optimum health
December 2017 The Journal 3
Congratulations to the 2017
World Grand Champion winners CIA (Open 5years and over) and Lady Antebellum (Amateur 5 years and older). CIA is owned by Mr. Adam Jokisch and was trained and ridden by Mr. Tom Williams. Mr. Jokisch says that “he knew CIA was special the moment he saw him, he has a big walk, a great disposition and a lot of natural talent”. He went on to say “It was the first time one of my horses ever won the Open 5 and over and it was fun, it is a great sport.” When asked about any challenges they faced getting CIA to the winners circle at Celebration Mr. Jokisch says that “I really can’t think of any, he is one of the most natural horses I’ve ever had in my life and there was never a part of training at any time that they didn’t think he would make it”. “Tom (Williams) did a fantastic job with him, it’s a lot of work getting one ready to perform at that level.”
is currently enjoying the good life of a sire. Lady Antebellum won the World Grand Champion in the Amateur 5 years and over class at the 2017 Celebration, her rider was Lee Hackler. “Lady A”, as she is known to those who love her, is owned by Mr. Lee Hackler, a recent Hall of Fame inductee, of Alma, Arkansas. Mr. Hackler says that Lady Antebellum is a joy to ride and to own. After having bought her a couple years ago she had a minor setback when she got a stone bruise on her rear foot that disrupted
Mr. Jokisch expressed his sincere thanks to the great crowd at Celebration for the enthusiastic support for CIA.
her canter. They got through that and he started showing her. Mr. Hackler reports that he hasn’t lost one time on her. and “this mare will not let you mess up”. “I have won before and it’s a great feeling to win but the fun is in chasing after it”, he CIA is so sweet that the kids ride him now said. Mr. Hackler summed up his feelings that he is home from the Celebration. CIA December 2017 The Journal 4
about Lady Antebellum “she is a once in a lifetime horse”. CIA and Lady Antebellum have two important things in common. They share the same sire, Grand Central and they are both trained by Mr. Tom Williams of Buffalo, MO. Mr. Williams explained the difference in the Open Class and the Amateur Class. In the Open Class the horse is ridden by a professional rider, often the trainer and in the Amateur Class the rider, although accomplished, is not a professional equestrian. Winning World Grand Champion is the “holy grail”of showing. Mr. Williams says that “to win yourself is a good feeling, but it’s an even better feeling when you are able to do that for somebody else , when you can train the horse and they can get on and get out of that horse the same that you get, it is even more special.” Mr. Williams has known CIA since he was a colt and says “ he is a sensible horse with a lot of go and he has a great temperment, very natural gaits”. He went on to say that to have a stud like CIA, with the drive and heart to perform and yet be as gentle and well mannered as CIA is, is a rare and wonderful thing. Mr. Williams says that he has known Lady Antebellum since she was a baby also and she is a special kind of sweetheart. “She knows when she shows”. “[Lady A] has so much heart and has lots of natural talent” he said. Mr. Williams says that “both CIA and Lady Antebellum are bred just about as good as you can ever hope for”.
All Photos in this article are courtesy of Marty’s Photography. You can access more pictures here.
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Affilliate News Indiana Fox Trotter Association Participates in the Hoosier Horse Fair Submitted by Leslie White
The Indiana Fox Trotter Association members attended the 2017 Hoosier Horse Fair in Indianapolis, Indiana in April. Two of the members, John Heldt of Bedford, Indiana, and Leslie White also of Bedford, groomed and prepared their Fox Trotters to perfection in preparation for representing the Missouri Fox Trotter in the Breed Showcase. Cast Iron’s Little TJ H, owned by Leslie White, and Amber’s Little Angel, owned by John Heldt, are both seasoned trail horses, and did a fine job in their representation. The breed demo is held each of the three days during the fair, and this year many new breeds were represented. Two horses and riders of each breed are given time to demonstrate the uniqueness of their breed while the announcer gives a brief history of that breed. The Indiana Fox Trotter Association hosted a hospitality booth and was a success in promoting the Missouri Fox Trotter. They had several people inquire about the breed, many of which were looking for their first gaited horse!
The Indiana Fox Trotters booth at the 2017 Hoosier Horse Fair
Stallion Row also featured a Missouri Fox Trotter this year. Buck and Billiejean Thompson of West Plains, MO made the journey to Indiana to showcase their stallion, Miller Time. The stallion demonstration was held each of the three days, and is always a big hit with the crowd. December 2017 The Journal 6
The Hoosier Horse Fair has been a long time tradition in Indiana for 39 years. The fair is held for three days at the Indiana State Fair Grounds, and offers a trade show with approximately 200 vendors, clinics, featuring many well know clinicians, educational seminars, stallion row, a breed demonstration and various competitions including celebrity cutting and a colt starting challenge. Saturday evening is the Saturday Night Showcase. This is a variety show showcasing the beauty and versatility of the horse. The 2018 Hoosier Horse Fair will be held April 6 and 8. This will be the 40th Anniversary show, and will be one not to be missed! Please visit our website at infoxtrotters. com or our Facebook page for more information about our club, scheduled rides, clinic and more! Pictured: John Heldt with Angel and Leslie White with TJ after the Breed Demonstration at the 2017 Hoosier Horse Fair
Tell us about your Chapter News
Submissions can be sent to Editor Jen Gaffke at Blossomridgefarm@gmail.com Please put “Foxtrotters” in the subject line. Submissions need to be received by the 5th of the month in the month prior to publication. December 2017 The Journal 7
Three National Champions By: Bill & Jeannie Hinkebein*
NATRC is short for North America Trail Ride Conference, the oldest trail ride organization in the United States. It involves riders from all over the country including Bill and Jeanne Hinkebein and their granddaughters Josie and Jessica Reeter. This riding adventure began in 2015 when the granddaughters rode Novice which is meant for beginners and Grandpa Hinkebein rode Competitive Pleasure which allowed him to ride with the girls but not complete in the Novice division. Grandpa Hinkebein had already tallied over 13,000 miles of NATRC competition and was not eligible for Novice. Grandma Jeanne did not ride but instead had meals ready and helped when needed with the hauling of three horses. In October of 2015 the granddaughters and grandpa had just finished their last Region Six NATRC ride for the season. The granddaughters were sitting on the couch of the camper when the oldest, Josie Reeter (14) told her sister that they should ride Open next season. Jessie Reeter (11) looked at her and said “Are you crazy, do you know how long that is?” Josie quietly said “Yes, but we can ride faster and besides we would have the opportunity to try for a National Championship which will give us a nice belt buckle to wear and it really isn’t that much longer.” You could see how Josie’s mind was working and before long her sister said, “Okay, we can give it a try.” Josie and grandpa were delighted. All three rode registered Missouri Fox Trotters – Shady Sunset WH for Jessica, Country Mocha WH for Josie and Roho Honoy Mocha WH for grandpa. All three horses were born, raised and trained at Indian Creek Equine Center (grandpa and grandma’s farm) located northwest of Chillicothe, MO.
The 2016 season began in November and was just a few weeks away from the last ride of the 2015 season. The three riders planned to attend 10 rides in 2016 and the first was called Renegade Roundup. It was held at Cherryvale, Kansas. All three finished the ride along with a friend who also traveled with us. The four rode into camp cheerful and laughing. The 2016 ride season had begun on a happy note.
The rides came and went and the points mounted up with grandpa keeping track of the scores. About midway through grandpa told the granddaughters that they had a good chance of reaching their goal of a National Championship. The three were disappointed that the ride at the Von Holten Ranch had to cancel because the riders needed the points and the ride was close, just outside Sedalia, MO. The three riders continued on with their goal in mind. Finally the fall rides started and the summer heat was not as big of a factor. For some reason, heat was hard on two of the three horses. Indian Cave ride, located in Nebraska, was another disappointment due to the Saturday night rains that caused the ride to be just a one day ride. Wet Indian Cave trails become very slick causing dangerous areas that ride management felt were unsafe for the second day. Kanopolis Canyons was the next ride. It
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is about 300 miles from Chillicothe which meant Josie and Jessie had to miss school on Friday. At Kanopolis Canyons, Jessie found out that she had made her points and was now a National Champion! Grandpa had also made his points but still needed a second or first because all of his placings were in Kansas. To qualify for a National Champion, you must have first or two seconds in different states. Josie had her placings but was three points short in total points. The three now headed on to Cedar Creek outside Columbia, MO trying to fulfill their goals. It wasn’t a good ride it was a fantastic ride and in the end grandpa had his placing and Josie finished her ride giving her the needed 3 additional points. To say the trip home was joyful is an understatement.
The NATRC National Convention was held on Feb. 17-19, 2017 in Chattanooga, TN. Josie and Jessie Reeter and Grandparents Bill and Jeanne Hinkebein flew to Chattanooga. It was the first jet ride for the granddaughters. It was a good weekend which involved touring Chattanooga’s extremely large aquarium, meeting old friends, attending various conferences, and attending the awards banquet on the evening of Feb. 18. Jessie was awarded second and Josie third in the nation in NATRC Open Youth Horse division and Josie was awarded second and Jessie third in NATRC Open Youth Horsemanship division. Both were awarded the two foot red, blue and yellow
ribbons for their National Championships. Due to sickness the craftsman who designs and produces the belt buckles could not get them to the convention in time. At the Easter dinner at grandma and grandpa’s house, Jessie, Josie, and Grandpa Bill were each given a gift. To the granddaughters’ surprise their belt buckles had arrived and everyone in the family were able to see and congratulate them. At the convention, Jessie was also awarded a blue jacket for being first in the nation for High Percentage Points. In addition to Grandpa Bill’s National Championship, he received a signed and framed horse print for attaining 10 National Championships on 10 different horses, a feat that has never been done in the 55 years of NATRC’s existence. He also received a blue ribbon for High Point Horse and Rider Combination over all Region 6 contestants in the Open division. Bill ended the ride season with 14,200 miles of competition over 33 years of NATRC riding and Jessie and Josie ended their two years of competition receiving a 500 mile chevron.
This convention was a celebration of success which involved a ride season of packing their clothes in sport bags, bring their cowgirl and mud boots, raking mounds of manure (it isn’t all a lot of fun), making sure the horses had grain, hay and plenty of water, riding numerous miles of trails over all types of terrain in summer heat, rain and cool fall temperatures, learning to follow their maps and spotting
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trail markers, listening to the veterinarians and horsemanship judges, and of utmost importance making sure their horses stayed sound and healthy. It was a true adventure of two granddaughters and their grandparents driving thousands of miles, knowing the good eating spots, fussing with each other, singing with the songs on the radio, just enjoying each other’s company, and most importantly attaining their goals set in November 2015. It was a time of “making everlasting memories”. How could it be any nicer!
*All pictures were taken by Andy Klamm of Hutchinson, KS who gave us permission to use them.
For more about Bill Hinkebein see our story “Hall of Fame” page 17 December 2017 The Journal 10
Hall of Fame 2017 By Nikki Ogle
At its annual World Show and Celebration, the Missouri Fox Trot Horse Breed Association inducted seven members to its Hall of Fame. These individuals and horses have been nominated and included into the MFTHBA’s history for their influence on the breed.
The People Dr. Ruth Massey Dr. Ruth Massey is a familiar face at MFTHBA shows and events throughout the year. Not only does she participate in both model and performance classes, but has made efforts to expand the breed. Dr. Massey first attended the Celebration in 1969 and showed the next year. She is currently showing the sixth and seventh generations of horses she has bred and raised from Chocolate Drop, a mare she purchased in 1972. She has been a member of the MFTHBA since memberships became available. Her love of horses and showing fox trotters motivated her to become a veterinarian. With her education, Dr. Massey wrote the regulations on shipped semen for the MFTHBA, which helped to grow the breed. She also wrote many articles and gave multiple presentations discussing the health and anatomy of fox trotters, and horses in general. Dr. Massey worked with Carol Sapp to establish and sponsor the Youth Equitation Award from 1983 tot 1989. In 1989, Dr. Massey represented the Missouri fox trotter at the tenth anniversary of the Kentucky Horse Park, informing fellow horse people about the Show Me State’s horse. She also wrote the set of rules on shipped semen for the MFTHBA, which helped to further the growth of the breed. After years of participation and involvement with fox trotters, Dr. Massey was inducted into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame. Jan Alford, also a longtime member of the MFTHBA, has known Dr. Massey for most of her own life. Alford believes Dr. Massey deserved her induction to the Hall of Fame with her dedication as a “long time member, advocate, exhibitor and breeder of fox trotting horses.”
Clyde Connelly Clyde Connelly is a longtime member of the MFTHBA. He purchased his first Missouri fox trotter in 1968. Success in fox trotters started early for Connelly, when he won his first celebration championship in 1975 on Zane’s Play Boy. The success did not end there. Connelly went on to breed, train and show many champions. He raised Southern Playboy, who was also inducted into the Hall of Fame this year. He has stood many other Clyde Connelly with wife Samantha and President Aaron stallions that have influenced and enhanced Stanifer. Photo by Marty Maynard Photography the breed. December 2017 The Journal 11
Connelly himself has served as MFTHBA Board Member, Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President and President. In recent years, he has been recording the history of the breed. Connelly has stayed consistently dedicated to MFTHBA, its history and its future. For this, he was inducted into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame.
Bill Hinkebein For Bill Hinkebein, a love for fox trotters all started in 1964, with a horse named Stardust. Then, Bill recalls, one could take their horse to a fox trot judge for them to determine whether the horse could be registered as a fox trotter. Stardust passed the test, and Hinkebein was hooked on fox trotting. Hinkebein was pleased with the fox trotting horses Stardust could produce. One of her grandsons was named Hickory’s Country Gold, who holds a spot in both the Missouri fox trot Horse Breed Association and the National America Trail Ride Conference Halls of Fame for his impact on fox trotter success in the NATRC. “This horse completely changed the way NATRC looked at horses that competed in this sport,” Hinkebein said. “Before Hickory’s Country Gold, it was felt that only Arabians could compete and succeed but Hickory’s Country Gold proved this to be untrue.” Hinkebein has competed in the NATRC with fox trotters since 1987. He has won a total of 20 national championships with 10 different horses. He was the first in NATRC to accomplish this. Nine of those national championships were won with Hickory’s Country Gold. Hinkebein continues to work with fox trotters for two of their distinguishing characteristics.“It is the smooth gait that the horse is capable of doing and the easy temperament,” Hinkebein said. Hinkebein has been instrumental in encouraging the participation of fox trotting horses in the NATRC, bringing more people to love the Missouri horse. This earned him an induction into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame. “Achieving this award means that the 55 years of riding and working fox trotters and my 31 years of competitions have been a total culmination of many successes and many wonderful trails spread all over the United States,” Hinkebein said. “It just couldn’t have been any better For more on Bill Hinkebein see story “3 National Champs” and having a fine fox trotter on page 7 to ride made it the best.
Lee Hackler Lee Hackler first heard about fox trotters when his brother-in-law told him about a “championship show at Ava.” Hackler had already found a hobby in trail riding, so after attending the second annual Celebration, he decided if he was ever financially stable, he would show horses. In 1989, he reached that goal and bought his first fox trotter. Many years after experiencing his first Celebration, some things have changed, but Hackler’s love for the show has not. “I consider [the Celebration] time to visit with all my friends, and I don’t even have to buy them supper,” Hackler said, laughing. “It’s a December 2017 The Journal 12
big deal to me.” Hackler has carried out garlands on many horses at Mid-America, Futurity and Celebration shows. “Sitting in my office, I’ve got about 40 pictures on the wall of all the horses I’ve shown,” Hackler said. Like most horse owners, though, he does have a pride and joy. “Right now I’m riding my favorite horse of all time, Lady Antebellum,” Hackler said. In the last few years, Hackler has supported the growth of the breed by sponsoring youth entry fees. “I know you don’t have as much money when you’re raising children. There are expenses involved. I want to make it easy for parents to have their kids show- that’s where our future is,” Hackler said. “It’ll help the kids, their parents and the Association.” For his dedication to the breed, Hackler was inducted into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame. He was shocked when he heard the news.“I was driving down the road when I was on the phone and my voice probably quivered, but just for a second,” Hackler said. “It is a great honor, without a doubt.” For more on Lee Hackler see our cover story on page 4
The Horses Grand Central Grand Central has become a famous fox trotter in recent years, winning championships, making history, claiming awards and Grand Central with owners Joe & Jennifer Steward at the Hall of siring many successful horses. He Fame Induction Ceremony, Photo by Marty Maynard Photography is the only horse in the history of the breed to consecutively win the two, three-, four-, and five-year-old Open World Grand Championship and Open Model World Grand Championship. He is the second stallion to have won all four open performance championships. Grand Central was a star in the show ring with his flashy, animated headshake. “He had a natural flare to him,” owner Joe Stewart said. There were naysayers who thought Grand Central’s gait was taught by his trainer, Tom Williams.“People got caught so caught up in his headshake, but they forgot to watch his feet,” Stewart said. “Horses that are man-made aren’t right in their feet. He was always spot-on.” “Charlie,” as Grand Central is known in the barn, sets himself apart from other fox trotters with his calm personality.“He’s easy to handle and knows his place,” Stewart said. The day that Stewart and his wife, Jennifer, bought Grand Central, he had not been ridden in a year. Even so, when Jennifer climbed on the horse, his natural gait and December 2017 The Journal 13
ease were given.Stewart said he has yet to see a Grand Central baby with a mean streak, but that is not the only thing the top sire has passed down to his offspring. He also passed down his championship-winning talent. Over the last four years, Grand Central has been named a Top Five Stallion of the Year. In three out of the four, he has been crowned as the Top Stallion. He has also been recognized as one of the Top Five Breeding Sires of the Year. He has been named the National Breeders Cup High Point Stallion of the Year. Grand Central leaves his show-ring success to his offspring and it is obvious in their talent and disposition. The horses he has sired have landed in the winner’s circle in all divisions. Stewart said Grand Central is not the only one who deserves the credit for this much success.“It also goes back to the quality mares he’s been bred to,” Stewart said. “Along with the supporters and those who promoted him.” Stewart believes that Grand Central’s bloodline will change the fox trotter breed for years to come.“For right or for wrong, you can notice in the 1994 Celebration, horses are different [than they are now],” Stewart said. “There is a different way of going with Grand Central horses.” For his own success in the ring and that of his offspring, Grand Central was inducted into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame. Stewart thinks this honor is well-deserved.“He is the all-around epitome of a fox trotting horse,” Stewart said. “I don’t know if there will ever be one as natural as he was.”Stewart considers himself fortunate to own such a special animal.“We are blessed to have him. He’s one in a thousand,” Stewart said. “We’ve tried to replicate it and we just can’t.”
Prince Jester Prince Jester is a three-time World Grand Champion show horse who has represented the fox trotting breed throughout the country. In 2003, Prince Jester was the Open Five Years and Older World Grand Champion and became the face of fox trotters at countless horse expos. He was a Feature Breyer Horse in 2011. In 2012, he became the only fox trotter to land the cover of Horse Illustrated Magazine. He went on to sire 19 World Grand Champions, seven Reserve World Grand Champions and eight Futurity and World Champions. His offspring have been shown in youth, amateur, open, model and versatility divisions. At the age of 16, Price Jester suffered an unexpected illness that ultimately took his life. However, his legacy lives on through his successful offspring. He has sired so many talented horses that he has continued to be named a Top Five Stallion even after his death. For his representation of
Randy Williams, owner of Prince Jester accepts engraved Hall of Fame plaque from President Aaron Stanifer Photo by Marty Maynard Photography
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the breed and the reputation he still possesses as a top sire, Prince Jester was inducted into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame.
Southern Playboy Southern Playboy is a champion show horse. He won both the World Grand Championship and Ladies World Grand Champion in the same year. To name a few more, Southern Playboy has been named a five-time World Champion, National Association of Breeders Five Years and Older Open Champion and Mid-America Two-Year-Old Futurity Grand Champion. Since the initiation of the Stallion of the Year Award in 2012, Southern Playboy is the only horse to be named a Top Five Stallion every year. He was honored as the Stallion of the Year in 2013. He has also been recognized as a Top Five Breeding Sire in four of the five years the award has been given. In two of those, he was the highest Breeding Sire of the Year. As of June 2017, Southern Playboy has 394 progenies registered with the MFTHBA, which go back to 1998. One of the current Hall of Fame Stallions, Southern Playboy ranks third in number of progenies behind his own sire Southern Sunrise, as well as Missouri Traveler E. His offspring are having success in all divisions of fox trotter shows. Southern Playboy has offspring with accomplishments in trails, western dressage, obstacle challenges, North America Trail Ride Conference and even Search and Rescue. Southern Playboy’s living legacy in the fox trotting world landed him an induction into the MFTHBA Hall of Fame.
Southern Playboy and Clyde Connelly on their victory lap in 2006 Photo courtesy of MFTHBA archives
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MFTHBA Launches New Program to Recognize Members Showing Locally Missouri Fox Trotting Horses can be found competing in various competitions all over the world. The Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association (MFTHBA) is committed to supporting local shows and the inclusion of Missouri Fox Trotting Horse classes. To support this commitment, the MFTHBA has recently announced a new program designed to recognize Missouri Fox Trotting Horses and MFTHBA members competing in local horse shows. The newly launched MFTHBA Horse Show Buckle Series allows show managers to establish their own competition series designed around the needs of their competitors. Guidelines for the MFTHBA Horse Show Buckle Series are simple: · Horses competing for the High Point Buckle must be registered Missouri Fox Trotting Horses. · The owner and exhibitor of the horse must be current MFTHBA members. This membership must be current before any points accrued may be counted toward the high point award. · Series must contain at least 3 shows. At least 1/3 of the participating shows must utilize a MFTHBA carded judge. · All other requirements for the individual buckle series will be determined by the individuals requesting the buckle series. Shows may be sponsored by any organization. To set up a local MFTHBA Buckle series, the participating shows must submit a proposal for their series utilizing the series application form. All information must be completed and the form must be signed by each participating show manager. Once completed, the proposal, along with a $50 application fee for the series, should be submitted to the MFTHBA office. Once the series is approved, the application fee will be deposited. Within 30 days of the completion of the series, the series manager is responsible for submitting series results to the MFTHBA office and for documenting the series’ compliance with the MFTHBA’s requirements. In addition, an article highlighting the series winner must be submitted for inclusion in The Journal. Once this is complete, a special custom buckle will be ordered and mailed directly to the winner. More information, including a series application form, is available at MFTHBA.com.
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MFTHBA Partner Organizations The MFTHBA is proud to partner with these organizations to recognize the achievements of registered Missouri Fox Trotters. American Endurance Ride Conference From the youngest junior riders to seniors who have plenty of time to travel far and wide to compete, riders from across the U.S. and Canada have many things in common: a love for their equines, desire to ride on scenic trails, and at least a little bit of competitive spirit. Riders compete in endurance (50 or more miles) and limited distance (25-35 miles) rides. AERC offers junior-level prizes in most categories, and all riders may compete for regional and national awards, or just to earn mileage awards with their favorite trail companion. Through the MFTHBA Partnership with AERC, the MFTHBA recognizes a yearly hi-point winners. To be eligible, horses must be registered with the MFTHBA and their owner must be a currently MFTHBA member. Learn more about the AERC at https://aerc.org/# American Horsemen Challenge Association The American Horsemen Challenge Association (AHCA) offers family friendly competition and a diverse skills challenge. It is an obstacle course event, perfect for all riders, all disciplines and every skill level. Points are tracked nationally for qualification in the National Finals. Riders compete for recognition and prizes and most of all money. Through the MFTHBA partnership with AHCA, the MFTHBA recognizes a yearly national hi-point Top 5. The MFTHBA will provide each winner a custom Top 5 Hi Point jacket. To be eligible, horses must be registered with the MFTHBA and their owner must be a currently MFTHBA member. In addition, the MFTHBA will recognize the Hi-Point Missouri Fox Trotting Horse at the AHCA National Finals. The winner will receive a custom award buckle. To be eligible for this award, the horse must be registered with the MFTHBA. Learn more about AHCA at http://americanhorsemenchallenge.com/
December 2017 The Journal 17
North American Trail Ride Conference The North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC) provides long distance competitive trail rides for riders of all equine breeds and from all disciplines. They promote safety, sportsmanship, education and trail horse advocacy through qualified evaluation of horse and rider by veterinary and horsemanship judges, in a fun, responsible environment for the whole family. Through the MFTHBA Partnership with NATRC, the MFTHBA recognizes a yearly regional hi-point winner in each NATRC region as well as an overall Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Hi-Point winner. To be eligible, horsmust be registered with the MFTHBA and their owner must be a currently MFTHBA member.
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Learn more about NATRC or find an event in your area by visiting/ http://www.natrc.org. Top Trail Top Trail is the fastest growing, most innovative online mileage program for the Trail Horse. Through the MFTHBA partnership with Top Trail, the MFTHBA provides custom Top 5 Hi Point jackets to the yearly top 5 miles earners. To be eligible, horses must be registered with the MFTHBA and their owner must be a currently MFTHBA member. In addition, the individual must enroll their horse in the Top Trail Program. To do so visit, http:// www.toptrailhorse.net/breed-association-enrollment.html. Once the horse’s MFTHBA registration is complete, join the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse leaderboard at http://www.opentrail.us/ fox-trot-america/ As added recognition, the top mileage Missouri Fox Trotting Horse on the Top Trail leaderboard at the end of the calendar year that is also enrolled in the Fox Trot America program and has an hours log submitted by the end of January will be named the MFTHBA’s Trail Horse of the Year. This horse will have its name added to a plaque in the MFTHBA Hall of Fame.
Continued on page 20 December 2017 The Journal 18
Your ad could go here! call or text Jen 417 225 0588
Here’s a horse lover’s dream home and a 15 ac showplace near Fair Grove, MO. Smooth wire and pipe fencing surround the acreage, 36 x 60, 5 stall barn, and loafing sheds. Steps away from the barn, the beautiful, all brick, 2660 SF, home awaits with huge front porch. Open plan with 3 BDR plus an office, and 2 1/2 baths. Additional living area in the large master with his and her walk-in closets. The 2nd & 3rd bedrooms are ample sized with large closets. The flooring is hardwood and tile throughout most of the home. $359,900. Call now for more information and/or a private showing. Mark Sponsler Broker Salesperson 417-425-5437 (cell) 417-887-6664 (ofc). mark@marksponsler.com www.marksponsler.com
Don’t miss our Classifieds on page 23
December 2017 The Journal 19
Western Dressage Association of America The Western Dressage Association of America combines the Western traditions of horse and rider with Classic Dressage. The WDAA honors the horse in its rightful place as the living symbol of the American West, values the partnership between the horse and rider, and also celebrates the American West as the beautiful and legendary place where it all began and continues today. The sport of Western Dressage continues to grow and expand. The MFTHBA is excited to partner with the WDAA to encourage Missouri Fox Trotting Horse participation in these competitions. Through our partnership, the MFTHBA sponsors classes in at the WDAA World Show, has sponsored a gaited horse hi point award and helps promote WDAA activities. We continue to look for ways to recognize the many Missouri Fox Trotting Horses that are competing in the sport of Western Dressage. Find out more about the WDAA at http://westerndressageassociation.org/ **Every effort has been made to make the above links work properly, should you have difficulty with them please copy and paste the web address into your search engine of choice.
Do you have a service to offer or something to sell? consider advertising with us in The Journal Call or text Jen Gaffke 417-225-0588 Blossomridgefarm@gmail.com
December 2017 The Journal 20
Some Interesting Facts about Lady Anne F-2555
than Zane Grey’s full sister is. Dean Esther did
By: Clyde and Samantha Connelly
four years after Zane Grey was foaled, when she
If you were going to answer on a test who the
was fifteen years old. And, Dean’s intentions in
person was that bred Lady Anne to Sterling
buying Lady Anne may not have been to raise
Merry Boy in order to get Zane Grey, would your
performance horses.
answer be Dean Esther, Dale Esther, or Robert
Dean bought Red Rawhide from his brother
Wheeler? The correct answer would be Robert
Dale on January1,1971. Red Rawhide was sired
Wheeler of Bolivar,Mo. Evidently the Esthers
by Golden Rawhide, and Golden Rawhide was a
didn’t hold Lady Anne in as high esteem as we
full brother to Lady Anne. Dean kept Red Raw-
have believed as they never registered her,she
hide until May 07, 1979, when he sold him to
was seven years old before Dale raised her first
Chris Danuser of Linn Creek, MO. Dean liked
foal,a mare named BlackAngel E, foaled in 1961;
Red Rawhide as he was a “using horse” much
and then she didn’t have another registered foal
like his sire, Golden Rawhide, was. Dale could
until Bob Wheeler produced Zane Grey. Accord-
be depended on showing a performance horse
ing to MFTHBA records, it was Robert Wheeler
at the Show and Celebration every year, but not
who registered Lady Anne, and it was Robert
Dean. The statement has been made that you
Wheeler who bred her to Sterling Merry Boy
could “lay a stick of wood between Red Raw-
in order to produce Zane Grey. Zane Grey was
hide’s ears while he was fox trotting and he
foaled May 10, 1965. Bob Wheeler bred Lady
didn’t have enough head action to shake the stick
Anne back to Sterling Merry Boy and raised a
of wood off”, but he had more cow sense than
bay mare he named Sterling Lady W. who was
about any horse,and that’s what Dean liked.Dean
foaled May 25, 1966. This bay mare did not
was a horseman,but he also was a cattleman.
influence the fox trotting breed the way her full
Dean purchased Lady Anne from Robert Wheel-
brother, Zane Grey, did because most people
er on May 15, 1969. He must have wanted a foal
have never heard of her. It was Robert Wheeler
out of Red Rawhide and LadyAnne fairly bad as
who was responsible for producing one of the
he immediately bred LadyAnne to Red Rawhide.
greatest horses in the history of the Fox Trotting
Rawhide’sLadyAnnE was foaled on May1,1970.
Horse Breed, Zane Grey. Yet, Robert Wheeler is
Red Rawhide was Dean’s kind of horse,but for
not buy Lady Anne from Robert Wheeler until
no better known in the fox trotting world today some unknown reason Dean then bred LadyDecember 2017 The Journal 21
Anne to ZaneGrey and got MissouriTravelerE
Lady Anne back to Zane Grey again if he had
who was foaled on May4,1971.Dean must have
wanted to. Being one of the most successful “son
liked the Red Rawhide/LadyAnne cross better
to mother” crosses known, you would think if
than he liked the Zane Grey/LadyAnne cross,as
Dean was satisfied with Missouri Traveler E, he
he then bred LadyAnne backto Red Rawhide.
would have tried it again. Why he didn’t breed
Rawhide’s Red Lady E was foaled on April 10,
Lady Anne back to Missouri Traveler E’s sire,
1972. He then bred Lady Anne back to Red Raw-
but continued to breed her back to Red Rawhide,
hide while she was in foal heat,and Rawhide’s
is a question only Dean can answer.
Nancy E was foaled on April21,1973.He then bred LadyAnne back to Red Rawhide,andRawhide’sRed Fox E.was foaled on May12,1974. Dean owned both Lady Anne and Red Rawhide. He registered four foals out of this cross, so he must have been satisfied how the two horses crossed with one another. Why then, did he skip breeding Lady Anne to Red Rawhide for the one year in order to breed her to Zane Grey? And why then, after Missouri Traveler E was foaled did he not re-breed Lady Anne back to Zane Grey? At the time, some of the talk was that Dean couldn’t get Lady Anne to settle to Red Rawhide so Dale told him to “just breed her to his young horse”; but according to foaling records between Lady Anne and Red Rawhide that wasn’t the case. Lady Anne got in foal very easily to Red Rawhide, and Dean continued to breed Lady Anne to Red Rawhide even after Missouri Traveler E was foaled. Missouri Traveler E was foaled in 1971 and Zane Grey did not die until 1973, so Dean did have opportunity to breed December 2017 The Journal 22
Classifieds 3 Stalls for Sale Ban 5 stall 46, 47, 48 If interested call 816-539-0213 with offer Leave message-will call you back.
For Sale: “Jus Fuggedaboutit” MFTHBA Registration #11-98319. She is a 6 yr old and is currently bred to Blossoms Vanilla Pal 15-100733. Beautiful Sorrell girl, 14.2 hands, she was being ridden prior to becoming pregnant. Interested please call or text Jen 417 225 0588 or email Jenna98178@gmail.com
CHRISTMAS GIFTS: 2 Books on History, Versatility & Gaits of Missouri Fox Trotting Horses: Fox Trot Trackings: 6” x 9”, Published in 1986, 443 pages, 64 chapters, 871 horse names in index. Fox Trot Trackings, Too: 6” x 9”, Published in 1999, 522 pages, 53 Chapters, 922 horse names in index. $35.00 plus S&H $5.00 for each book. Special Gift $60.00 S&H $6.00 for both books. Also BOOK: Compilation and Cross-Index of World Grand & Reserve Grand Champion Missouri Fox Trotting Horses for 30 Years, 1983 through 2012: 8 ½”x 11”, published in 2015, 90 pages, Listing of 218 Winners by Year, Class & Placing; cross-indexed by Winning Horses, Riders, & Owners. $25.00 S&H for $5.00. Moellers: 816-454-3737 or gn.moeller67@gmail.com. December 2017 The Journal 23
30 YEARS OF WORLD GRAND CHAMPION CLASSES, 1983 through 2012 on a single 1 TB computer hard drive. Contains 218 Amateur and Open Performance classes, equivalent to 62 DVDs, a total of 120 GB with remaining 880 GB for your own DVDs or movies. Includes Compilation & Cross-Index Book, $300.00 S&H for $10.00, MO Residents $25 sales tax. Contact: Gene Moeller: 816-454-3737 or email gn.moeller67@gmail.com
Your Classified Ad could be here. Classifieds are $15.00 per month for the first 30 words then $.35 per word after. They are posted on the web site and in the MFTHBA Journal. Call or Text Jen 417 225 0588 or email jenna98178@gmail.com
December 2017 The Journal 24
Stalls for sale. Barn 17 33,34 $1,500 ea. OBO 417-839-3353 For Sale: 3 Missouri Fox Trot Horses. 1 sorrel mare 18 years old. Has been an excellent brood mare. 1 chestnut gelding, 13 years old. 1 bay mare, 9 years old. All well mannered. Too good to sit in the pasture, needs someone to ride them. 417-543-5190
For Sale “Ward’s Little Susie” 06-89823 Granddaughter of Hall of Fame Inductee Southern Playboy Susie is a big strong mare with excellent mothering skills. She has been ridden on trails. May be bred to a registered palomino (Blossom’s Vanilla Pal 15100733. Call or text Jen at 417-225-0588 email: Jenna98178@gmail.com
December 2017 The Journal 25