Welcome to Show Horse Today
We’re excited to bring another issue of our new multi-breed, multi-discipline digital magazine to the show horse community. We hope you enjoy this Issue!
1 USE THE GUIDES
In addition to this page, you’ll find a table of contents on the next page. All of these use links, so just roll over the item on the list with your mouse and when you see the hand, just click and you’ll be taken right to that page.
2 EVERY PAGE HAS LINKS
There are links on each page that will take you to a page, a website and/or let you send an email immediately to any advertiser. Anywhere you see a logo or and icon, a website address, an email address, or a list, it likely links to something. When you see the hand, it means “click here and I’ll take you there.” Also, you don’t have to worry about losing your place in the magazine by clicking a link because it will always open a new browser window for you… so you can switch back and forth between the two.
3
LOOK FOR THE VIDEOS
We love video and we know many of you do too, so you’ll find video embedded in showcase ads, articles and the For Sale horses. Just look for the little button with the arrow in the middle of the black box and click it to watch the clip. We try to keep the clips short (1-2 minutes), so that you can stop and view those that interest you as you’re paging through the magazine. We have some great video in this issue!
4 SAVING & SHARING
Would you like to share an article or an ad with a friend? Just go to the page you’d like to share, click on that open envelop icon at the very top left of the viewer, enter the info and hit send. The person receiving it will get a link that takes them right to that page. You can share via email, Facebook, Twitter and other social media links. To download an ad or page (or several specific pages), just click on the PDF icon at the top left of the viewer and you can select the pages you’d like to download. Share or save only what you want..
We make it easy by bringing our magazine to you, wherever you are. You can have it delivered to your email inbox, or look for it at many online outlets, including PleasureHorse.com, Facebook, on advertisers’ websites and other select locations. Read it on your computer or iPad or iPhone/Android phones. Read it online or download it right to your device for reading on the way to your next show.
THANK YOU FOR READING
Let us know what you think, what you'd like to see in future issues, and how you'd like to get involved.
IT’S IN THEIR JEANS THE STYLE PERSONALITIES OF KIMES RANCH DENIM
AQHYA WORLD SHOW CANDIDS
COURTESY OF RODS TRUE WESTERN PHOTOS BY RACHEL GRIFFIN
by Robyn Duplisea
Kevin Garcia Originals has always been a name and brand synonymous with setting trends while somehow creating timeless designs. Your multiple Reader’s Choice Award Winner for Best Western Show Clothing Designer, Kevin Garcia is not content to sit back on his name and reputation. He continues to push forward with innovation and drive.
Kevin has a passion for couture fashion. It is rooted in his family tree.
“I attribute much of my own talent to this rich family legacy. The foundation of my success is the unwavering support of my family.”
“My maternal grandfather crafted couture patterns for prestigious brands like Catalina Swimwear and Elizabeth Stewart.”
“I attribute much of my own talent to this rich family legacy. The foundation of my success is the unwavering support of my family. To this day my mother and father remain steadfast pillars who provide invaluable support to my business, driving its continued growth and success.”
Over two decades ago, Kevin took his love for fashion and his education in Retail and Consumer Science and combined them with his passion for showing horses. He himself a dedicated horseman
and Congress Champion. “This passion inspired me to create Kevin Garcia Originals, a brand born from a love of fashion and a desire to offer something unique to the equestrian industry.”
“With the support of my husband, World Champion Trainer, Brian Isbell Garcia, we have formed an exceptional team. Together we have built a solid business, always supported by Brian’s steadfast encouragement” exclaimed Kevin.
“Together we have built a solid business, always supported by Brian’s steadfast encouragement”
Recently KGO unveiled a fresh new website that Marketing and Sales Manager Josef Valdiezel says has been “incredibly well received.”
One of the offerings on the new website that has really taken off is The Metallic Collection. With 88 fabric choices there is a color for everyone! Soft and stretchy, these shirts are ideal for nearly every event and of course showcase the Kevin Garcia signature embellished cuffs and collar and piped princess seams to flatter every body. “This look has really taken off” shares Josef “we have competitors in many arenas from reining to the pleasure and
trail that love this look. It is so fresh and there are so many options.”
Another area of the new website that has captured the industry is the “Remake” option. Under this tab you can view some incredible designs crafted by Kevin and have it made to order in your size and sleeve length. It gives you that famous Kevin Garcia quality, design
“This look has really taken off we have competitors in many arenas from reining to the pleasure and trail that love this look.. It is so fresh ”
remember that Kevin Garcia is size inclusive. His remakes are offered from sizes 2 - 20 meaning that you can allow yourself to fall in love with any design as they will make it the perfect size for you.
Always popular are the signature hidden zipper retro shirts. Paired with one of Kevin’s stunning vests you can build a look that will take you from Horsemanship to Pleasure to Western Riding.
Custom Showmanship Suits continue to be another hot item
for Kevin Garcia Originals. While Kevin does some spectacular blinged out designs, his classic bespoke tailored suits have a fanatic following as well. If
you are “more business and less Cher” this may be the perfect option for you!
Men’s clothing is also gaining in
popularity for Kevin Garcia Originals. Again the perfectly tailored fit, cutting edge fabrics and classic design stand out in all the best ways. Kevin offers stunning suits, show shirts and pants for men. From classic to contemporary he can outfit you for any event in the perfect fit and style.
Kevin and team are so confident in the quality of their work that they back it with a special offer “we are proud to extend a lifetime promise of complimentary repairs to the original owner of each of our bespoke masterpieces.”
“Keep coming back to the sale section of the website if you are looking for something on a budget or tight timeline”
For those who know, Kevin Garcia Originals are kind of like potato chips, you can’t have just one! Once you experience the quality, design,
Madeline Langlois in her first KGO (left) and her newest (right)
fit and customer service you will be hooked. Thankfully the new website also offers a sale and even pre-owned section. “Keep coming back to the sale section if you are looking for something on a budget or tight timeline” shared Josef. “It is updated constantly and if we have it on the rack we will ship it out the same day if you order before 3:00 pm.”
The clients though, truly tell the tale of Kevin Garcia Originals. You have voted him Best Western Show Clothing Designer the past three years in a row.
“I remember when I got my first Custom KGO in 2020, I absolutely loved it” shares youth customer Madeline Langlois. “We finally got to a show late that summer (COVID) and I wore it, I got so many compliments on that shirt! I remember telling everyone so proudly ‘it’s a Kevin Garcia!’ it truly felt so special to me as it was my first custom shirt and it made me feel so confident.”
Madeline continued “there have been a bunch of KGO’s since then (and some really fun ones) but this new one that
I just got is my absolute favorite!!! I actually saw it on their Facebook page a few weeks ago and sent it to my mom (who said I didn’t need anymore show clothes), when it went on sale for their Labor Day Sale, so I sent it to her again. Finally, (with a little help from Kevin and Josef) she agreed to get it! It’s even better in person and fits perfectly, another KGO that makes me feel confident and beautiful. I cannot wait to show in this shirt at the Congress in October!”
“Kevin & Josef, are THE BEST and they truly know how to make their customers feel special.”
Kevin Garcia Originals will be at the All American Quarter Horse Congress with Head to Tail Boutique in booths 716 and 813 in the Congress Hall. If you are hoping to see the designs in person and shop the off the rack options you will have a chance to see what everyone is so in love with!
“Kevin & Josef, are THE BEST and they truly know how to make their customers feel special.”
Make sure to check out their new website www.kevingarciaoriginals.com and follow them on Facebook and all the socials!
Western cowboy hats hold a revered place in culture, history, fashion and the horse show arena; symbolizing the rugged elegance and spirited independence of the American West. These iconic hats are not just functional headwear for cowboys. Rather, they’re a fashion statement recognized worldwide for their distinct style and cultural significance.
If you’re looking for a new cowboy hat, you’re in the right place. Rod’s True Western’s 2024 guide to the best hats covers types, sizing, care, and everything else you need to know to find a hat that complements your style and meets your needs.
Rod’s carries a complete line of show clothing and hats!
WESTERN FELT HATS
TYPES OF COWBOY HATS
A cowboy hat isn’t a single type of headgear. Instead, the term refers to many different types, each with its look and set of benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the main categories of Western hats, showcasing their distinct characteristics and versatility.
Western felt hats are the epitome of timeless elegance, serving as an essential accessory for a variety of occasions, from the show arena to formal events to daily activities on the ranch. Their sturdy felt construction ensures durability and provides warmth and protection, especially in cooler climates, making them suitable for diverse outdoor activities.
Available in an array of colors and styles, felt hats offer choices from traditional black and brown to more vibrant shades, ensuring that every
individual finds a hat that complements their personal style. Renowned brands like Stetson and Resistol are popular choices, known for their quality and enduring appeal.
Whether you’re attending a formal event or engaged in daily ranch work, a Western felt hat is a stylish and practical choice. Their versatility and variety in color and design make them a favored option for hat enthusiasts and fashionconscious individuals alike.
STRAW COWBOY HATS
Western straw cowboy hats are an iconic choice for warm weather, blending practicality with unmistakable style. Their lightweight, breathable nature makes them comfortable to wear, perfect for sunny outdoor events or as a casual accessory for everyday outings.
Crafted with various weaves, these hats cater to different needs: tightly woven styles offer increased sun protection for the more intense sunny days,
while looser weaves enhance airflow, keeping you cooler. This variety ensures that there’s a straw hat for every type of weather and outdoor activity.
Not just functional, these hats also reflect the authentic spirit of Western fashion. Whether you prefer a subtle, understated look or a bold, statementmaking style, there’s a straw cowboy
hat to suit every personal preference.
WESTERN FASHION HATS
Western felt fashion hats and Straw fashion hats blend traditional Western aesthetics with modern flair, creating a unique fashion statement for both casual and formal events. These hats, often adorned with stylish embellishments, are perfect for those looking to add a contemporary twist to the classic cowboy look.
This category features a diverse array of designs, from subtle, understated models to bolder, more ornate options. With their varied shapes, brim sizes, and decorative bands, fashion hats offer versatility and the opportunity to express personal style while honoring Western heritage.
KIDS COWBOY HATS
Kids cowboy hats are specially designed to bring the Western spirit to the younger generation, combining style with child-friendly features. These hats are crafted to fit comfortably and securely on smaller heads, ensuring they stay in place during play and exploration.
Available in a variety of fun and colorful designs from trusted brands like Bullhide and Twister, these hats are both durable and lightweight, perfect for young cowboys and cowgirls. They offer the same iconic Western style as adult versions but are scaled down in size and detail to suit kids’ tastes and needs.
HOW TO SIZE COWBOY HATS CORRECTLY
Once you’ve found that truly special hat, you want to make sure you look your best when wearing it. Here’s how to measure your head and other tips to ensure the perfect fit.
FINDING YOUR HAT SIZE
Sizing a Western cowboy hat correctly is crucial for both comfort and style. An improperly sized hat can be uncomfortable to wear and may not
You can outfit your small fry competitors from head to toe at Rods
provide the desired look.
To begin, measure the circumference of your head where the hat will sit, typically about a half-inch above your eyebrows and ears. Use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around your head, ensuring it’s level all the way around for an accurate measurement.
Once you have your head’s measurement, compare it to a hat size chart, which can usually be found on the retailer’s website or in stores. Remember, hat sizes can vary slightly
between brands, so it’s essential to check the specific sizing guide for the brand you’re interested in.
if you’re between sizes, it’s generally advisable to choose the larger size for a more comfortable fit. You can always use hat sizers or padding to adjust the fit of a slightly larger hat.
For children’s cowboy hats, it’s important to regularly check the fit, as kids grow quickly. Many kids’ hats come with adjustable bands to accommodate growth.
HOW SHOULD THE HAT SIT ON MY HEAD?
When trying on cowboy hats, the hat should sit comfortably on your head without feeling too tight or loose. It should rest about a half-inch above the eyebrows and not obstruct your view.
A well-fitting cowboy hat will feel snug but not tight. It should stay in place when you move your head but not leave
any red marks or feel constricting.
Finally, consider the hat’s brim and crown size, as these can influence the overall fit and look. The right combination of brim and crown will complement your face shape and enhance your Western attire.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE TIPS
Proper maintenance and care are vital to keep your cowboy hat looking great for years. Here are some essential tips to help you take good care of your hat:
Avoid Handling the Crown: Instead of grabbing the crown, handle your hat by the brim. This prevents the crown from losing its shape and keeps it free of oils from your hands.
Brush Regularly: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove dust and dirt. Brushing in a counter-clockwise direction helps maintain the hat’s texture and appearance.
Store Properly: Keep your hat on a hat rack or in a hat box when not in use. Proper storage prevents misshaping and protects the hat from dust and damage.
Keep Dry: If your hat gets wet, let it air dry naturally. Avoid using heat sources, as they can cause the material to warp or shrink.
Spot Clean Stains: For stains, use a damp cloth with mild soap. Gently dab the stained area instead of rubbing to avoid damaging the fabric or color.
By following these simple yet effective care tips, you can ensure your cowboy hat remains in top condition, retaining
its style and elegance for all your Western adventures.
CONCLUSION
A Western cowboy hat is a timeless classic, perfectly merging fashion with function and tradition with modern flair. By considering the tips discussed above, from sizing to material and occasion, you can find the perfect hat that not only fits well but also reflects your personal Western style.
For the best selection of cowboy hats, look no further than Rod’s True Western. With a vast array of options from trusted brands, all available at competitive prices, Rod’s is your goto destination for finding a cowboy hat that’s not just a headpiece, but a statement.
by Robyn Duplisea
When you head to a show, much discussion is had on who designed the tops, jackets, vests and shirts - but the true workhorse of the horse show style is the humble jean often concealed during the class under a pair of chaps.
Whether you are an all binged out kind of show person or prefer a classic button up - everyone needs the perfect pair of jeans. Fitted for under your chaps, built for longevity and comfort in the saddle, stylish enough for dinner out or made for dancing the night away and built to compliment your body type - we all need options.
When you head to a show, much discussion is had on who designed the tops, jackets, vests and shirts - but the true workhorse of the horse show style is the humble jean often concealed during the class under a pair of chaps.
Whether you are an all binged out kind of show person or prefer a classic button up - everyone
needs the perfect pair of jeans. Fitted for under your chaps, built for longevity and comfort in the saddle, stylish enough for dinner out or made for dancing the night away and built to compliment your body type - we all need options.
Kimes Ranch Apparel knows jeans, they know riders, they know show pen and in the saddle needs and they know how to flatter for a night on the town! The key is to know the styles and then choose the best fit for you.
We thought it might be fun to introduce you to some of the styles as we could see them on the show grounds.
BETTY is your all around girl. She may be found under a pair of chaps in the pleasure pen or under chinks in the ranch riding. She will definitely be
found loping in the cutting pen and warming up client horses. She is a go all day, built for style, comfort and versatility with just the right amount of practicality. Built with 99% denim she is strong and she is willing to put the time in. She does it all, and does it all well!
CAL is a timeless gentleman. He is the one riding the really nice horse down the fence in the cow horse, holding the reins for his open futurity horse to show with the trainer or back in the executive chair in his office. Classy and classic, the style suitable for every man.
SARAH likes to be flexible. With her high rise, fitted thigh and slim boot cut she is the gal to go from warming up hunters to under the chaps in the horsemanship. She has just enough stretch to be comfortable climbing up on a Hunter or to size down for a
flawless fit under your chaps. She keeps everything in place whether you are posting or sitting an extended jog! She also comes in a wide range of sizes up to 20W so she truly is every gal’s horse show bestie!
STEWART is a bit more relaxed. Not one to be in a hurry or get worked up. Often found on supportive husbands who have entered the horse show world with their spouses. The perfect transition from street wear, Stewart gives a different take on western denim. Kind of like Jelly Roll - Stewart is a fresh, yet laid back take in the Western world.
Every body loves LOLA ! The perfect fit for the halter pen with her fitted thigh, flare leg and trouser cuff. Seamlessly paired with a button up and cute blazer and she will also double duty in the longe line or on the other side of the pen in the judges
corner. Lola has just enough confidence to know she is gorgeous just like the horses she leads!
WAYNE knows what he has got and is ready to show it off. He can be found in the pleasure pen under chaps or spinning his lady on the dance floor, knowing all eyes are on him. With his slim fit, stretch for in the saddle comfort and modern style, Wayne is bound to create a following everywhere he goes.
JENNIFER likes to run barrels. She is super stylish and yet practical and tough. Built with 99% denim she doesn’t have a lot of stretch but her ultra high rise waist and super wide flare leg makes a statement where ever she goes! Jennifer looks amazing on many body types, creating curves for those who may lack them and enhancing them for those who do. She is equally
comfortable in the saddle as on the dance floor. She’s the girl you want to ride all day with and then head out to run the town!
DILLION can be found in the reining pen or working hard after hours in the warm up pen. He is built to last and is not afraid of putting in a full day in the saddle or on the ranch. He is classic in the best ways with an authenticity that can be seen across the pen. He works hard
and looks good doing it!
MONICA comes out after hours. Her cropped hem is equally cute with the perfect pair of sandals as it is with heels. She is your go to girl for tailgating or dinner on the town. With her flirty high rise and cropped straight leg she is going to dress up for date night and heads will turn.
Where ever you look at the shows, the signature longhorn
on the pocket is sure to catch your attention. Some are hidden under chaps, supporting from the sidelines and others are making a statement on their own.
The best part of the Kimes Ranch Apparel line is that they are built by horsemen for horsemen. Those longhorns signify a brand built for our industry. Which style are you looking forward to taking home next?
Be sure to check them out online at
https://kimesranch.com/ or on social media. Kimes Ranch has physical locations in Arizona and the Stockyards in Texas and can be found at retailers all over!
HOW HORSES LIKE TO LEARN
BY LYNN PALM (& WILLS)
Hi, this is “My Royal Lark” also known to my friends as “Wills”.
I am a handsome bay Appendix Quarter bay stallion and son of legendary “Rugged Lark”. I’m Lynn’s favorite partner, or at least I think so!We know that horses don’t talk… but Lynn is finally off of her computer and now it’s my turn to give you a horse’s perspective on training.
Together with Lynn’s 40+ years of professional experience in training horses and riders, we’ve come up with these pointers to help you be more successful in training your horse.
Wills’ List of How Horses Like to Learn
1. We really like training sessions that are organized around a lesson plan. It gives our riders a structure to follow that helps us prepare, focus, and learn better. I think it helps them, too!
2. We like the first part of a lesson to include a warm up period. This allows us to stretch our muscles and warm up our joints. It is especially important if the weather is cold. A warm up helps us avoid injuries and gets our bodies prepared to participate to our fullest in the lesson.
3. Horses like a “mental” warm-up before the real lesson starts, too. Get us in the mood to learn by reviewing different figures, transitions, or maneuvers that we do well. This reinforces past training and gets us thinking!
4. We like challenges, but introduce new lessons in small, easy steps that we can understand. We want to please you. A kind word or pat when we get a lesson right tells us we are on the right track. When we refuse or resist, we are showing you that we don’t understand
the lesson you are introducing. We look to you to give us confidence to learn. When you are patient with us, it builds our trust in you. If you do this, we will give you back obedience and show you the same respect you give us.
5. At the end of our lesson go back to doing something that we already do well. This gives us confidence and reinforces our partnership.
6. Finish up with a cool down period. This gives us the opportunity to stretch the muscles we used. We like having this quality time with you without having to concentrate on learning.
7. After we are back in our stall, most of us like to be groomed. It’s like having a massage after a workout! While some horses like grooming more than others, we all love to get a special treat like a carrot or apple from you. This tells us that you appreciate us. Give us a few kind words and a pet on the forehead or side of the neck and we will be anxious for our next lesson together!
If you follow my advice, your horse will love to learn and love you for it!
Yours in partnership, “Wills”
This Week…
A reader contacted me with a question about a term in an article that she did
not understand. I really appreciated hearing from her and encourage anyone who doesn’t understand a horsemen’s term I use, to ask me about it.
The reader’s question was: What are tempi changes? I used this phrase to describe an exercise that I was learning to improve through lessons with Olympic dressage rider Jane Savoie.
Tempi changes are one of the most challenging disciplines that you can train your horse to do. To explain them,
I first need to describe flying lead changes, which are the key component of tempi changes.
Flying lead changes are done at the canter. When a horse is on a right lead canter, the right front and hind pair of legs stretches further forward in stride than the left pair. When a flying lead change is asked by the rider, the horse switches to the left lead where is his left front and hind leg pairs stretch further forward--without a change in cadence to his 3-beat canter.
Don’t forget that a horse’s hooves really start to grow this time of year. Call your blacksmith and get on a schedule for trims and/or resets every 4-6 weeks depending on your horse’s needs.
Tempi lead changes are sequences of flying lead changes, done at the canter, at a precise number of strides. Any increment of strides can make up a sequence of tempi changes. For example, tempi changes at 5 strides mean 5 strides of canter on one lead, a flying lead change, then 5 strides of canter on the other lead, and repeat.
With Springtime’s warmer temperatures and with the busy riding and show season here, time spent on training and schooling our horses increases. Whether riding for the ribbons or just the pleasure of being together, don’t forget to reward your horse’s extra efforts by rewarding him with some healthy treats. Purina is offering a horse treat that is not only tasty, but good for your horse, too! Even dogs like it, including my two English Lab pups Sherlock and Watson who love to sneak them away from my horses!
The most advanced tempi changes are done every stride. If we use our example of starting on the right lead, a single stride tempi change would be 1 stride right lead- flying change -1 stride left lead- flying change –1 stride right lead- flying change, and so on.
Thanks to this reader for her question. Her inquiry reminds me of the importance of following Will’s suggestions… keep training (and explanations) simple and use clear, small steps to accomplish your goals.
Until then, follow your dreams…
Cyril and Lynn offer clinics throughout the country and abroad as well as online coaching. J
For more information about Lynn Palm; her educational programs Lynn’s Ride Well clinics across the U.S.; saddles; DVDs; books; and trail and Western dressage competitions; visit www. lynnpalm.com or call 352-362-7847
We love to share our Dressage backgrounds and knowledge with you and would love to have you come ride with us. You can join us at our farm in Ocala, Florida, or at one of our Ride Well Clinics on our USA Tour at a location near you.
If you would like to train with Lynn and Cyril at home with Western Dressage, take advantage of the following supportive training materials:
Books:
• "Head To Toe Horsemanship"
• "Western Dressage—A Guide to Take You to Your First Show"
• "A Rider Guide to Real Collection"
DVDs:
• “Dressage Principles for the Western Horse & Rider” Volume 1, Parts 1-5
• “Dressage Principles for the Western & English Horse & Rider” Volume 2, Parts 1-3
• “Let Your Horse Be Your Teacher” Parts 1&2
WELCOME
We are pleased to have partnered with the American Roan Horse Association to bring to you Roan Horse Today, the official publication of the ARHA.
Each month we will feature ARHA members, stallions and shows. It is our hope that this section will provide a “home” for roan enthusiasts from all disciplines.
Show Horse Today is proud to be a major sponsor of the 2024 ARHA World Show and has long been a media partner for the association from its beginnings. Our hope is that the reach of PleasureHorse.com and Show Horse Today’s 54K Forum Members, 690K FB fans and nearly 1M views on the sites will bring many new faces to the American Roan Horse Association and its programs.
Over the years you have enjoyed the ARHA Daily Sparkle posts highlighting the most amazing horse show fashion as well as our numerous stories on the association.
Now, you will have the opportunity to easily find the ARHA news, photos,
calendar and spotlights all in one place!
We are very exciting about this partnership and look forward to bringing you a beautiful section each and every month.
If you have suggestions on what you would like to see in Roan Horse Today we encourage you to reach out to Robyn Duplisea at robyn@ pleasurehorse.com as she would love to hear from you.
We hope you enjoy Roan Horse Today!
NEWS
Dear ARHA members and families,
Welcome to the September edition of Roan Horse Today. I want to take a moment to introduce myself as the new journalist for Roan Horse Today magazine. Many of you know me as the director of the Roan To Riches (R2R) program, which I still am. When not promoting R2R stallions or showing my own roan horse, my day to day consists of being a wife, mother of two and a family nurse practitioner. I have been given the opportunity to share my passion for roan horses by bringing you all the latest information in the American Roan Horse Association (ARHA), recognizing our members, featuring the professionals within our industry and helping you all learn more about our beloved R2R stallions.
I would like to send a special thank you to Khloe Brown for her years of service with Roan Horse Today and ARHA. Her dedication and vision have allowed ARHA to flourish. She will be greatly missed as part of the ARHA team. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.
So, what is new in ARHA? It has been a few weeks since the 2024 ARHA World Show and Roan To
Riches futurity. We were extremely pleased with the growth of the show and futurity, doubling in size from prior years. Trainers and exhibitors traveled across the U.S. to compete. The level of competition was impressive but most of all we loved seeing the smiles and happy tears as exhibitors exited the show pen holding their trophies, medallions and checks. Now is a great time to mark those calendars for the 2025 ARHA World Show and Roan To Riches futurity, June 25-29 in Murfreesboro, TN.
In this edition of Roan Horse Today, you will hear from an ARHA World Show and Roan To Riches exhibitor, as well as the stallion owner of Ultimo Minuto AQHA and The Dark Nite AQHA. I hope you all enjoy this edition and as we say, ride a roan.
Sincerely,
Sarah Wells
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
MATTHEW PEDDY & RIDEITLIKE U STOLEIT
Tell me about yourself.
“My name is Matthew Peddy, and I live in Apex, NC. I’m a veterinarian and work for an animal health company full time but still practice both small animal
general practice as well as Emergency medicine as a relief veterinarian. I’ve been involved with horses since I was a kid, and it is a hobby that has stuck. As stressful and expensive as this crazy horse life can be, I couldn’t imagine my life any other way.”
How did you and your horse meet?
“Like most other horse addicts, I am always on the lookout for my next prospect, whether I need one or not! I came across a video of Maverick that Julie Voge posted when she was fitting him for sale as a yearling and there was just something about him that made me think I had to have him. I purchased him from his breeder, Brenda Gower, a few days later and that was 3 years ago.”
Tell me about your horse.
“My horse’s name is RideItLike U StoleIt and his barn name is Maverick. He is by VS Goodride and out the great show mare She Made It Happen who was also owned by the Gowers when I purchased Maverick. I remember asking Julie how big he was as a yearling and told her I was looking for a big
western all around prospect to be my next amateur horse in a few years. She replied, “He’ll be big enough.” She was absolutely correct because he is over 17 hands and won’t stop growing. He is quirky and goofy but loves to work. He has an awesome attitude for an AA horse; you can take him out of his stall 100 times at a horse show and he’ll always meet you at the front of the stall with his ears up ready for another ride. He’s turning into a cool showmanship horse but if you try leading him without a chain there’s a good chance he will plant his feet or go where he
wants!”
What is your most memorable moment together and why?
“The first time I showed him was at the Congress last fall and we ended up with a top 5 finish. I’ve shown at the Congress in the past but had never placed that well and I was really happy with that ride. At this year’s Roan World Show he won the Junior HUS, Amateur HUS, and RTR HUS Futurity unanimously under all judges which was another cool accomplishment.”
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
What events do you all compete in?
What is your horse’s favorite event and why? What is your favorite event and why?
“Maverick is turning into a really cool AA horse. We started out showing the 3yo trail events with him and since he wouldn’t stop growing, put the little saddle on and the hunt seat came easy for him. I think his favorite event is the HUS because he doesn’t have to try hard. I really enjoy showing him in the trail and horsemanship. We call him a freak because he stays so slow legged over the poles and for a huge horse, shouldn’t be as handy as he is and has a really neat presence when he’s on the mark.”
What is your biggest accomplishment as a team and why?
“Our Top 5 finish at the Congress is our biggest accomplishment to date. The competition at the Congress is the best of the best so if you get your name called out in the Celeste you know you belong.”
What piece of advice do you think your horse would give you?
“It would be frightening if Maverick could talk! I think he would tell me to trust him more, especially when he wants to take the lope poles really far out.”
What is up next?
“I brought Maverick home from full time training after the Roan World this summer so the two of us could continue to figure each other out more for the AA events. We will continue to show regional shows this fall and then plan on the Florida winter circuits at WEC as our next big show.”
What do you enjoy most about the American Roan Horse Association?
“ARHA has been so easy to work with and the professionalism and customer service provided is top notch! The ARHA World Show is incredibly run
STALLION STATION
TIM KETTERMAN
Tell me about yourself.
My name is Tim Ketterman, I am the Owner and trainer of Rudd Quarter Horses in Mount Hope, WV. I have been training for 10 years, specializing in Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle and the all-around horse. I have been riding and showing horses since I was 4 years old. I grew up in Maryland showing, QH, Paints,
Appaloosas and Warmbloods on the stock breed and USEF circuit. Our current operation breeds, shows and trains QH, Paints and Appaloosas. Rudd Quarter Horses show on the local, national and world stage. My passion began when I attended my cousin’s schooling horse show and I knew this is what I wanted to do.
Tell me about your horses
Ultimo Minuto AQHA who is sired by DO YOU HAVE A MINUTE AQHA out of SO SO
Ultimo Minuto
DENIRO TB.
The Darke Nite AQHA sired by Nite Moves AQHA out of LIFES OUTRAGEOUS AQHA.
What are your horses’ accomplishments?
Ultimo Minuto is a 2014 Superhorse contender, 2014 High Pont Jr HUS, 2014 High Point Green Working Hunter Over Fence, Top Ten World Show Performance Halter Stallion, 2013 AQHA High Point Green Hunter Under Saddle, 2013 Tom Powers
Champion 3 yr old HUS.
The Darke Nite is a 2x 2023 Reserve Congress Champion Performance Halter Stallions.
How many foal crops do your stallions have?
In 2025 Ultimo Minuto is expecting a handful of foals as were reintroducing him to the public, in 2024 he had 5 healthy foals hit the ground. We recently purchased a beautiful 2 yr old filly by him out of a full sister to the
The Darke Nite
STALLION STATION
late Iron Enterprise. Last year one of his foals won the Premier Sires.
This will be The Darke Nite’s first foal crop in 2025 and we’re expecting a handful of foals.
What are favorite crosses on your stallions?
Ultimo Minuto: Artful Move, Luke At Me, Iron Enterprise.
The Darke Nite, this being his foal crop we’re hoping to cross him with some of the industry’s leading WP sires to include Invitation Only, Good Version, Chips Cookie Monster, ZMGB, Exquisite Zippo, The Miracle Chip (ApHC).
What cross are you hoping to try and why?
For Ultimo Minuto, Good Better Best because I love the way they move and how their built, I love the lofty trot. Hot Expectations, as they are great minded babies with exceptional movement. When In Chrome as his babies have fantastic hock, great toplines and overall exceptional movement.
For The Darke Nite, RL Best of Sudden as they offer great conformation and
exceptional movement. Makin Me Willy Wildas his babies are exceptional movers with amazing arena presence. Machine Made, as they have great hocks, trainability.
What programs does the horse participate in?
Ultimo Minuto: AQHA, APHA, ARHA, NSBA, Iowa Breeders Futurity, The Darke Nite: AQHA, NSBA, ARHA, PHBA, Iowa Breeders Futurity
What is the best way to contact you?
Tim Ketterman (302)670-1532
Kettermanstim@gmail.com (Subject line required)
www.Ruddquarterhorses.com
Facebook (either the stallion page, Rudd Quarter Horses or personal page)
James Rudd (302)670-1450
Rudder71@icloud.com (subject line required)
Facebook (either the stallion page, Rudd Quarter Horses or personal page)
