Bridle & Bit Magazine April 2026 by Bridle & Bit

HORSE POWER

The South Point Hotel Casino Has the Premier Equestrian Center in the Country. We Have 11 Great Restaurants, Spa Costa Del Sur, Headliner Entertainment, a Full-Service Casino, Race and Sports Books, 30-Table Poker Room, Bingo Hall, 64-Lane Bowling Center and a 16-Screen Movie Theater, Plus 46 Weeks of Equestrian Events!

Where Cowboys & Their Horses Stay & Play

2026-2027 AQHA Executive Committee Elected

The 2026-2027 American Quarter Horse Association Executive Committee was elected on March 16 at the 2026 AQHA Convention in Las Vegas. Though AQHA operates primarily upon the decisions of its members through the board of directors, the five-person Executive Committee is responsible for implementing important decisions and governing AQHA between the annual meetings of the membership and the board. The Executive Committee convenes throughout the year to conduct and manage the business of AQHA.

The AQHA Executive Committee – consisting of a president, first vice president, second vice president and two additional members – is elected each year by the board of directors at the Convention. Each member serves a term of one year until the selection of his/her successor. Members are eligible for re-election and may serve on the Executive Committee for up to five years.

President Jim Brinkman

years and is an AQHA amateur champion, has won multiple AQHA world champion titles and year-end high-point awards and is an AQHA 10-year breeder.

Second Vice President Ross Roark

AQHA life member Ross Roark of Andrews, Texas, is an AQHA Professional Horseman, specialized halter judge and has been an AQHA director representing Texas since 2010. He was elevated to director-at-large in 2022.

The 2026-2027 AQHA Executive Committee, from left: Member Randy Ratliff, Second Vice President Ross Roark, President Jim Brinkman, First Vice President Lori Bucholz and Member Victor Wolf.

Jim Brinkman is an AQHA life member and has served as an AQHA director since 2011. Brinkman served on the Stud Book and Registration Committee, Ranching Council, Hall of Fame and Best Remuda selection committees, AQHA World Show Sale committee and the parentage verification task force.

Brinkman is a third-generation rancher on the Pitzer Ranch, which was founded in 1946. He runs commercial cattle and is the owner, manager and trainer overseeing the ranch’s American Quarter Horse program. The ranch near Ericson, Nebraska, runs more than 500 broodmares and hosts two Quarter Horse sales a year, one in the spring and one in the fall, selling about 800 head total.

Brinkman is an AQHA Professional Horseman and showed the first AQHA Superhorse, Vickie Lee Pine, for grandfather and owner Howard Pitzer. Brinkman works to continue the traditions of honesty and integrity that built his family’s operation over 75 years ago.

Brinkman and his wife, Tana, a former Miss Rodeo Nebraska, have two children, daughter Sarah; son Sam and his wife, Kendra; and four grandchildren, Kale, Rio, Brooke and Clara.

First Vice President Lori Bucholz

Lori Bucholz of Waterloo, Nebraska, is an AQHA life member and has been an AQHA director since 2008 and was elevated to director-at-large in 2020. Lori has served as the chairperson of the International Committee and Animal Welfare Commission. She has served on the American Quarter Horse Foundation Committee and Council, the Nominations and Credentials Committee, the Affiliate Advisory Board, and Hall of Fame Selection and Animal Welfare Grievance committees.

Bucholz is a professional registered parliamentarian and received her bachelor of science degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She has shown horses for more than 50

Roark has served on the AQHA Animal Welfare Commission and Show and Stud Book and Registration committees. He served as the chairman of the Stud Book and Registration Committee from 2020-2022. A judging contest horse donor at both the AQHYA and AQHA world championship shows, Roark was president of the American Junior Quarter Horse Association (now AQHYA) from 1984-1985.

Member Randy Ratliff

Executive Committee member Randy Ratliff and his wife, Susan, reside in Glencoe, Oklahoma. Ratliff is an AQHA life member, served as a director from 2011-2022 and has served on the AQHA Show and Public Policy committees, as well as chairman of the Nominations and Credentials Committee. He also served on the Affiliate Advisory Board and was elevated to director-at-large in 2023.

Ratliff received his Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University and recently retired from Syngenta, a global agribusiness corporation. Outside of the horse world, he has served in several positions on agriscience boards, such as the Southern Weed Science Society, where he received a distinguished service award; and the Political Action Committee at Syngenta. He is a pilot and past president of the Shiloh Pilot Association.

Member Victor Wolf

Victor Wolf of Guacima, Alajuela, Costa Rica, is an AQHA life member and longtime leader in the international Quarter Horse community. He served as the Costa Rica international appointed director from 2001 to 2022 and later as a director representing Costa Rica. Wolf has also been an active member of the AQHA International Committee since 2011 and served as its chairman from 2022-2025. In addition, he served on the AQHA Affiliate Advisory Board from 2022-2025 and was the founding president of the Costa Rica Quarter Horse Association, ACRICAMDE.

Beyond AQHA, Wolf has held numerous leadership roles within the equine and agricultural industries in Costa Rica and Central America. He currently serves as a director of Los Reyes Polo Club and previously served as president of the Costa Rica Sheep Breeders Association. Wolf also served as president of the board of directors for the Asociacion de Criadores de Caballos de Campo y Deportivo de Costa Rica from 2004 to 2014 and president of the board of directors for Club Hipico La Caraña, S.A. from 2000 to 2002.

Earlier in his career, he represented Costa Rica in EXPICA, the Central American Horse and Cattle Show Permanent Committee, from 1994 to 2002, and served as its president in 2001.

Lisa Borowsky - Mayor of Scottsdale

INTERVIEWS BY TRACY WAGER

Q - A Vision for Excellence: The Barn Project & Horse Welfare

“Mayor Borowsky, as someone who grew up riding and still competes in the Arabian horse circuit, you have a unique ‘rider’seye view’ of what makes a facility world-class. Now that the new barn project at WestWorld has successfully replaced some of the older structures with modern, high-standard accommodations, how do you see these improvements affecting our city’s reputation? Beyond just infrastructure, what does providing these ‘premier suites’ for horses mean for Scottsdale’s identity as the ‘West’s Most Western Town’ and our ability to host the world’s most prestigious events?”

A - “The improvements at WestWorld, including the new barn facilities, are a direct reflection of our broader strategic vision. With the City Council’s unanimous adoption of the WestWorld Strategic Plan, we are making it clear that excellence --- both in infrastructure and in animal welfare --- is a top priority. As someone who has spent my life around horses, I know how much these premier accommodations matter. They elevate the standard of care and signal to the global equestrian community that Scottsdale is serious about being a toptier destination. This is how we honor our identity as “The West’s Most Western Town” --- by blending tradition with world-class facilities that support the top events in the world.”

million funding win, we are finally seeing a definitive move toward a permanent solution. For the horse owners and event-goers who have navigated these issues for years, can you describe the longterm positive impact this will have on the reliability of our facility during Arizona’s monsoon seasons and the overall economic performance of WestWorld?”

Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky with WestWorld General Manager Will Lofdahl & Randy Coffman with Coffman Barns

Q - Balancing Tradition and Growth: Enhancing the Event Landscape

“You’ve often referred to WestWorld as the ‘beating heart’ of our equestrian community and a cornerstone of our tourism economy. With the shift toward larger, more complex shows that demand higher safety and wellness standards, how do these latest expansions help secure the future of our existing signature events? How does this increased capacity—specifically the addition of these permanent stalls—pave the way for Scottsdale to attract a new generation of high-octane events while staying true to our deep-rooted heritage?”

A -“WestWorld is central to our city’s identity and economy, and the City’s strategic plan ensures we are protecting that legacy while positioning ourselves for future growth. One of the plan’s key priorities is to “Compete for the best,” which means attracting highquality events while continuing to support the historical signature shows that have defined Scottsdale for decades.”

Q - A Decades-Long Solution: The $10.4 Million Drainage Milestone

“Solving the drainage issues at WestWorld has been a persistent challenge for the city since the late 1990s, and you made resolving this a top priority of your administration. With the recent $10.4

A –“Addressing the longstanding drainage challenges at WestWorld is exactly the kind of forward-looking investment which is outlined in our strategic plan. Our WestWorld stakeholders playing a major role in identifying our goals and our priorities which are successfully moving forward. Safety together with a positive experience is paramount for competitors and their teams, and are critical to maintaining our reputation as a premier event destination, especially during Arizona’s monsoon season.

The investment represents more than infrastructure --- it’s about protecting an economic engine that generates significant regional impact each year. By solving these issues, we’re giving event organizers, horse owners, and visitors the confidence that WestWorld will deliver a consistent, high-quality experience regardless of weather conditions.”

Q - Advocacy in Action: The Impact of Stakeholder Voice

“In August 2025, you called for a special meeting to bring stakeholders—including voices like Craig Jackson—directly into the discussion regarding WestWorld’s future. As a Mayor who advocates for resident and industry input, how does this collaborative approach ensure that taxpayer-funded improvements, like the new drainage and barn projects, truly serve the people and the animals on the ground? Why is it so critical for the City Council to listen to the experts who produce these ‘best-of-the-best’ events?”

A -“Collaboration leads to better outcomes. From the beginning, we’ve prioritized input from stakeholders --- event producers, industry experts, and community members --- because they are the ones who make WestWorld a success.

That feedback is evidenced throughout the strategic plan, from improving the producer experience to strengthening operations and planning for future growth. When we listen to those who host and participate in these “best-of-the-best” events, we ensure that every investment we make is both practical and impactful.”

Q - A Lifelong Passion: From the Stables to City Hall

“Your roots in Scottsdale run deep, from your childhood days at local stables to now leading the city from the Mayor’s office. You

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE

Will Lofdahl - GM WestWorld

Q - The New Barns; Enhancing the Exhibitor Experience

“WestWorld recently reached a major milestone with the completion of the new barn project, replacing aging structures with what many are calling ‘five-star hotel rooms’ for horses. The feedback from exhibitors has been overwhelmingly positive, citing a new standard of luxury and care. From your perspective as General Manager, how does this significant upgrade shift the competitive landscape for WestWorld? More importantly, what does this investment signal to the City of Scottsdale, our dedicated horse consumers, and the event promoters who choose this venue for their world-class competitions?”

A - WestWorld hosts approximately 40 horse shows each year, and the equestrian segment remains the cornerstone of both our heritage and ongoing success. To support that foundation, we have recently expanded our capacity with 140 additional temporary

MAYOR-FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

recently opened the Arabian Horse Show while riding with the flag, a powerful symbol of your connection to this community. For our readers who may not know the full story, how has your discipline and responsibility as a horsewoman shaped your approach to leadership and your ‘quiet confidence’ when navigating the complexities of City Hall?”

A –“I grew up at Siminoff Stables on Scottsdale Road. Yale and Fern Siminoff made sure us kids were disciplined. There’s nothing like being responsible for a 1,000-pound animal as a little girl; it was a wonderful upbringing. We worked hard, rode hard --- rain or shine ---and we showed to win. Early mornings, late nights and long weekends—and no complaining! I remember those days vividly. Fern would carry a riding crop around and unexpectedly “tap” your back to remind her young riders “shoulders back, chest out”! If your ride wasn’t going great, Yale would yell across the arena “not like that, dummy!” They were amazing --- strict but so kind and supportive. I wish they were still with us and that lifestyle was still available…the “good ‘ol days!”

Q - Preserving the Legacy: The Future of the Equine Industry

“You have consistently fought to protect the open spaces and trails that define our city’s character. Looking forward, how do investments in WestWorld fit into your broader mission to maintain Scottsdale as a premier global destination while fostering a community where residents are proud to live? How does your administration plan to continue championing the equestrian lifestyle so it remains a vibrant part of Scottsdale for the next fifty years?”

A –The equestrian industry in Scottsdale extends beyond WestWorld. While the facility is certainly our showcase, what makes this community truly special is the depth and authenticity of our equestrian lifestyle. From first-class show barns to backyard arenas, and from our parks and trail systems to our neighborhoods, this way of life is woven into the fabric of our city.

We are proud to support a wide range of disciplines --- from dressage to hunter/jumpers to our world-renowned Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show --- and to welcome competitors and visitors from around the globe.

On a personal level, I want the next generation --- little girls and boys alike --- to have the opportunity to create the same kind of memories I did growing up around horses here in Scottsdale. And one of my favorite things is still seeing an out-of-state visitor pause to capture a photo of someone riding a horse down what they think is just an ordinary neighborhood street. The moment says everything --- its authentic, it’s unexpected, and its uniquely Scottsdale.”

stalls. We are also nearing completion of a major capital project that has replaced 10 of our older barns with modern facilities designed to better serve today’s competitors and event producers. These investments, combined with a recent upgrade to our public address and sound systems, position WestWorld to remain among the premier equestrian event centers in the country— an achievement we take great pride in and are committed to sustaining.

Equally important is our team. Our staff is a seasoned group of professionals who operate around the clock to ensure every event runs smoothly. Looking ahead, our focus is clear: to consistently deliver a high-quality venue and level of service that meets— and exceeds—the expectations of our clients and the broader equestrian community.

Q - Scaling for Success: Growth, Safety, and Capacity

“Expanding a facility isn’t just about adding space; it’s about elevating the standard of safety and well-being for both the animals and the people who handle them. With these modern improvements, how is WestWorld better positioned to foster the growth of long-standing events while attracting new, high-caliber shows to the desert? To give our readers a sense of the sheer scale of this transformation, can you share the final count of permanent stalls now available on-site following these upgrades?”

A - I firmly believe that the success of any organization is rooted in the experience, commitment, and capability of its people. Developing and empowering our team is essential to both our current performance and our long-term success. To that end, we are actively evaluating ways to better support our staff, so they are fully equipped to deliver exceptional service to our event producers and attendees.

We have also recently adopted a new strategic plan and infrastructure master plan. Together, these documents provide a clear roadmap as we align our resources, address operational challenges, and position WestWorld to achieve its long-term objectives.

From an operational standpoint, WestWorld is well-equipped to support a broad range of equestrian events. The facility includes 936 permanent stalls and approximately 400 temporary stalls, with the ability to further expand capacity through vendor-supplied stalls for larger shows. This flexibility allows us to accommodate events of varying scales while maintaining a high standard of service and functionality.

Q - Infrastructure for the Future: Solving the $10.4 Million Drainage Challenge

“A recent press release from Mayor Lisa Borowsky’s office announced a pivotal $10.4 million investment into WestWorld’s drainage infrastructure—an issue that has challenged the facility since the late 1990s. With the Mayor making this a key priority and leaders like Craig Jackson advocating for it before the City Council in August 2025, the momentum is undeniable. How will these longawaited improvements fundamentally change the ‘ground-level’ experience for both horse and non-horse events, and what does this mean for the reliability and comfort of the consumer experience during Scottsdale’s unpredictable monsoon seasons?”

A - WestWorld of Scottsdale sits within a flood control basin along the Reata Wash, a location that has historically left the site vulnerable during major storm events. The City of Scottsdale is now moving forward with a voter-backed plan to address those risks.

Scottsdale voters approved Measure 401 in the fall of 2024, a ballot initiative that allocates funding specifically for improvements at WestWorld, including significant upgrades to flood management

Randy Coffman - Contractor

Coffman Barns & FCP Barns

Q - The Long Road to Excellence: A Project Timeline

“Randy, first and foremost, congratulations on the successful completion of the new barn project at WestWorld. A project of this magnitude isn’t built overnight—it is the result of years of meticulous planning, coordination, and execution. Looking back to the very beginning, could you walk us through the evolution of this project? From the initial blueprints and early discussions to the final nail being driven today, what were the defining moments of this multi-year journey?”

A - “It truly has been an incredible journey, and you’re right—a project of this scale is a marathon, not a sprint. Looking back to the beginning in 2015, the evolution of the WestWorld project really comes down to a decade of persistence and a commitment to doing things the right way.

The Early Years: Assessment and Advocacy (2015–2021)

The story began with discussion into to having an evaluation done on the ten existing 48-stall barns built back in the 80s. The issue was clear: they were constructed with painted steel that had succumbed to heavy corrosion, creating genuine safety hazards.

Q - The Pivot to Innovation: Why Rebuilding Beat Retrofitting

“The path to completion was certainly not without its hurdles, including the global disruptions of COVID-19. Early on, there was significant debate about whether to simply refit the existing buildings or repair the mounting code-compliance issues. Ultimately, the decision was made that a ‘patchwork’ approach just wouldn’t ‘pencil out’ for the City or the exhibitors. Can you take us behind the scenes of that decision-making process? What were the critical factors—structurally, financially, or safety-wise—that made building brand-new barns the only viable path forward?”

A - “That is the million-dollar question. Early on, we had a very healthy debate about whether a ‘patchwork’ approach could work. But as we peeled back the layers, we didn’t just find maintenance issues—we found a systemic structural failure that made a retrofit both dangerous and financially irresponsible.

From 2015 to 2016, we moved through a meticulous assessment phase. We presented options for everything from minimal ‘band-aid’ repairs to full-scale replacements. For the next several years, we kept this on the radar with annual budget updates. A major turning point occurred between 2019 and 2021; as deterioration worsened and the risk of condemning barns became real, the conversation shifted from simple maintenance to a high-priority liability issue. Protecting these high-value horses—some worth upwards of half a million dollars—became the primary driver for funding.

The Turning Point: Partnership and the Pilot (2021–2022) By 2021, the project gained its real momentum. The City engaged Caruso Construction for management, and the rebuilding contract was awarded to the partnership of Coffman Barns and FCP Barns.

The most ‘defining moment’ of the entire journey was the decision to pilot-rebuild Barn A in 2022. Instead of diving into all ten barns at once, we used Barn A to validate our designs, refine our costs, and prove the constructability of using modern galvanized steel. The lessons we learned during that first build allowed us to adjust our logistics so we could work within an active, high-traffic equestrian facility without missing a beat.

The Home Stretch: Execution and Excellence (2023–2026) Since 2023, we’ve been in a rhythm of ‘iterative refinement.’ We applied what we learned from Barn A to Barns B through G, and most recently to Barns I and K. Each phase has been smoother than the last.

Today, in 2026, we have only one original barn left to rebuild. What started as a concern over rusted steel has evolved into a world-class facility. We’ve replaced liability with longevity, ensuring these barns are safer, more durable, and easier to maintain for decades to come. It’s been a long road, but seeing the safety and quality of the finished product makes every year of planning worth it.”

1. The ‘Ghost’ Structures:

The first hurdle was that these 1980s barns were essentially ‘ghost’ buildings. There were no engineered drawings, no calculations, and no documentation. Our team literally had to reverse-engineer the barns from scratch just to see if they met modern codes. What we found was alarming: the roof framing was completely inadequate for required wind loads, and the wall systems had never been officially tested for safety. We were looking at structures that, on paper, simply shouldn’t have been standing.

2. Failed ‘Stress Tests: The breaking point for the ‘patchwork’ idea came during our physical testing. We performed ‘pull tests’ on the foundation plates, and 75% of them failed. The posts weren’t properly engineered columns; they were just vertical channels tack-welded to plates that had been eaten away by decades of corrosion. When you combine that with inconsistent foundations— where one barn was fine but the next was dangerously weak—we realized we couldn’t guarantee the safety of the horses or the handlers in a high-wind event.

3. Why Patching Didn’t ‘Pencil Out’: From a financial perspective, the numbers for a renovation were actually scarier than a total rebuild.

The ‘Unknown’ Premium - Because there was no original documentation, any contractor bidding on a retrofit would have to include massive ‘contingency’ costs to cover the hidden problems we were bound to find.

Invasive Surgery - To fix the roof, replace the wall systems, and pour new foundations while keeping the old shell, the labor costs would have been astronomical. It’s like trying to perform heart surgery on a patient while they’re running a marathon.

The Longevity Gap - Even if we spent millions patching them up, the City would still be left with a ‘hybrid’ system—half-old, halfnew—with an unpredictable lifespan and ongoing maintenance headaches.

The Bottom Line - Ultimately, the decision became clear: rebuilding was the only way to get a certified, code-compliant, and safe result. By starting fresh, we could provide the City with fully engineered drawings and a 40-year solution rather than a

5-year band-aid. We moved from a high-liability ‘patchwork’ to a gold-standard facility that protects the City’s investment and, most importantly, the lives of the horses inside.”

Q - The Human Element: Rewarding the Hard Work

“We recently witnessed firsthand the sheer relief and excitement from exhibitors using the new barns during the Carousel Horse Show. Seeing the smiles on the faces of those who rely on these facilities day in and day out is a powerful sight. After years of labor and navigating the complexities of construction, how does it feel personally to see the equestrian community embrace these ‘horse hotels’ with such genuine joy and gratitude?”

– “There is something incredibly powerful about standing in the aisles during an event like the Carousel Horse Show and seeing that sense of relief on an exhibitor’s face. For years, we were all holding our breath, dealing with rusted-out walls and the constant worry of a horse getting injured on jagged steel. Seeing that replaced by genuine joy is, honestly, the most rewarding part of my career.

A Partnership Built on Safety - This project was a massive undertaking, and it required a very specific synergy. At Coffman Barns, we pride ourselves on being more than just builders—we are equestrian facility specialists. But to execute a vision this large, we needed a manufacturing partner who shared our obsession with quality.

That’s why the partnership with FCP Barns was so vital. FCP is the gold standard for engineered modular steel barns. By combining Coffman’s ‘on-the-ground’ design and project management with FCP’s world-class engineering, we were able to deliver these ‘horse hotels’ that aren’t just beautiful—they are built to withstand the rigors of a high-traffic, world-class facility for the next 40 to 50 years.

A Legacy for Scottsdale - We also have to recognize that this wouldn’t have happened without courageous leadership. We are deeply grateful to the Mayor and the Scottsdale City Council, both past and present. They recognized that WestWorld is a jewel of the city and chose to invest in its future rather than just patching its past.

The Ultimate ‘Win-Win’ - When I see a rider from across the globe pull their trailer into WestWorld, I want them to feel like they’ve arrived at the premier equestrian destination in the country. This project is a win for the residents of Scottsdale, a win for the international riding community, and most importantly, a win for the horses. They finally have the secure, dignified, and safe shelter they deserve. After a decade of planning and construction, seeing those smiles in the barn area makes every late night and every complex challenge worth it.”

Q - Future-Proofing WestWorld: The Impact of Drainage Solutions

“With the news that WestWorld’s long-standing water runoff and drainage issues are finally being addressed with a $10.4 million investment, the future looks bright. From a contractor’s perspective, how does solving these infrastructure ‘pain points’ change the game for you and the City staff? Specifically, how will this project streamline future bids, reduce the constant cycle of emergency repairs, and ultimately lower the long-term maintenance costs for the entire facility?”

A – “This $10.4 million investment is a huge win for everyone involved. I’m not a drainage expert, but as a barn builder, I can tell you that water is the enemy of any structure. You can build the best barn in the world, but if it’s sitting in a pond every time it rains, you’re going to have problems.

From a Builder’s Perspective: No More ‘Band-Aids’: ‘In the past, we’ve seen the City have to scramble with emergency repairs after

a big storm. This funding finally moves us away from temporary patches and toward a permanent fix. It’s a relief to know we won’t be fighting the same old washouts year after year.’

Easier Construction: ‘When a site has drainage issues, it makes bidding and scheduling a headache because you’re always worried about the next monsoon. Fixing the infrastructure now makes every future project at WestWorld more predictable and costeffective. It takes the guesswork out of the job.’

Protecting the New Barns: ‘We’ve worked hard to install these new galvanized barns to prevent rust and corrosion. Getting the water off the site and away from those foundations is the best way to make sure these buildings last for the next 40 or 50 years. It’s about protecting the investment the City has already made.’

The Bottom Line: By fixing these ‘pain points’ now, the City is making life easier for the staff and the contractors. It gives us a solid, dry foundation to keep WestWorld as the premier destination for riders around the world.”

FROM PAGE 23 - WILL LOFDAHL

infrastructure. The work will be carried out in three phases, with the first expected to begin in the summer of 2026.

These improvements are designed to substantially reduce the threat of flooding at the venue. Once completed, the project is expected to enhance the site’s reliability and help ensure WestWorld remains operational even during periods of heavy rainfall.

Q - Will Lofdahl’s Full-Circle Journey

“Will, you have spent a lifetime managing premiere event centers across the country, yet you’ve now returned to the 386-acre facility in the very desert where you were born. You are overseeing a venue that transitions seamlessly from ‘Horses to Horsepower,’ hosting everything from prestigious equestrian championships to nationally renowned automotive auctions. For those in the community who haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting you, who is Will Lofdahl? What is it about your unique professional history and your personal connection to Scottsdale that makes you the right person to navigate the complexities of both site operations and City Hall?”

A - I’ve been fortunate to spend my career operating large, complex event venues across the country, but at the core, my work has always been about the same thing—creating places that serve their communities while delivering events at the highest level.

Coming back to Scottsdale is personal for me. I was born here, so I understand both the history of this community and the expectations people have for a facility like WestWorld. It’s not just an event site, it’s a civic asset, and it needs to perform that way.

Professionally, I’ve worked in environments where you’re balancing multiple stakeholders at once—event organizers, guests, city leadership, and the surrounding community. That experience translates directly to WestWorld, where success depends on operational excellence on the ground and alignment with City priorities at the policy level.

What makes this role fit is that I’m comfortable in both worlds. I understand what it takes to run a 386-acre, multi-use venue that can shift from equestrian events to major special events, but I also understand how to navigate City Hall—how decisions get made, how to build consensus, and how to ensure accountability to the public.

When all is said and done, my goal is straightforward: to make sure WestWorld operates reliably, continues to grow its economic impact, and reflects the standards that the Scottsdale community expects.

Washington, D.C., March 31, 2026 — U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Secretary

Brooke L. Rollins and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum today announced new actions aimed at boosting the supply of American born, raised, and harvested beef by supporting American ranchers with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

USDA, DOI Move to Boost Support for American Ranchers, Help Lower Prices for Consumers

that will strengthen coordination, cut bureaucratic red tape, and deliver immediate, tangible support for America’s farmers and ranchers who rely on public lands.

Building on the USDA’s recently released Grazing

Action Plan, the agreement formalizes collaboration between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (FS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to ensure more efficient, transparent and responsive grazing management across federal lands.

“Today’s signing sends a clear message: the Trump Administration is putting America’s farmers and ranchers first,” said Secretary Rollins. “Building on our action plan for American ranchers announced in the fall, the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management are already delivering. This is another example of President Trump eliminating costly bureaucracy in order to lower consumer prices. Our public lands are there for the people, and this action demonstrates the commitment at USDA and the Department of the Interior to improve our services so farmers and ranchers who use public lands can run more efficient operations.”

“The Grazing Action Plan is built on a collaborative partnership dedicated to strengthening ranching operations while safeguarding our public lands,” said Secretary Burgum. “By working closely with American ranchers, we are enhancing communication, investing in innovation, and modernizing our approach to land management practices to deliver real results for the people who feed and sustain this country. In coordination with the Department of Agriculture, the Trump administration is advancing actions designed to support farmers and rancherssecuring a more resilient future for grazing on public lands and protecting America’s ranching heritage for generations to come.”

For generations, ranchers have played a vital role in feeding the nation, supporting rural economies, and stewarding public lands. The MOU recognizes permittees as essential partners and directs federal agencies to engage directly with those who live and work on the land.

WHITEHORSE Aggregate Winner at Ty Murray Invitational

By James Phillips PBR

The pride of the Navajo Nation climbed aboard Lights Out and delivered 90.75 points to finish second in the round.

It was the final piece of a complete and commanding performance.

Whitehorse went 4-for-4, won two rounds, and placed in every round to secure the aggregate victory at the 2026 Ty Murray Invitational—the most significant win of his career.

A dream fulfilled: Whitehorse dominates Albuquerque to claim Ty Murray Invitational title Whitehorse goes a perfect 4-for-4 to claim his first Ty Murray Invitational title as Leme surges and Kasel delivers in a championship-caliber weekend inside The Pit.

The Ty Murray Invitational was not just Stop No. 15 of the 2026 PBR Unleash The Beast Series—it stood once again as one of the most prestigious and hard-fought stages of the entire season, where only the very best could withstand the level of competition inside The Pit.

From the opening night in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the atmosphere felt more like a championship setting than a regular-season stop. The draw was loaded with elite bucking bulls—many of which would not have been out of place in a World Finals short round.

As fans packed into one of the most unique venues in professional sports, the questions surrounding the weekend carried real weight. He moved from No. 16 to No. 9 in the world standings.

And in front of a crowd that rose with him every jump, he didn’t just win.

He fulfilled a dream.

Top Five Finishers — Ty Murray Invitational (Albuquerque)

Keyshawn Whitehorse — 361.90 — 191 UTB Points

Claudio Montanha Jr. — 355.30 — 120 UTB Points

Bob Mitchell — 350.90 — 97 UTB Points

Brady Fielder — 270.10 — 92 UTB Points

José Vitor Leme — 268.35 — 71 UTB Points

PBR Teams announces expansion plans League intends to grow to 12 teams for the 2027 season.

By Andrew Giangola

Fort Worth, TX (March 30, 2026) – PBR Teams today announced plans for its second wave of expansion, with the league intending to grow from 10 to 12 teams for the 2027 season. The expansion, approved unanimously by PBR Teams owners, marks a significant milestone in the league’s continued evolution and underscores the strength of its business model, competitive product, and fan engagement.

PBR Teams launched in 2022 with eight teams playing five-onfive bull riding games, leading to an annual championship. In its first wave of expansion, the league expanded to 10 teams ahead of the 2024 season.

“Our second expansion in five years marks the next step in the continued growth of one of North America’s fastest-growing sports leagues,” said Sean Gleason, CEO and Commissioner, PBR. “With strong interest from prospective ownership groups, we’re excited to introduce team competition to two new North American cities.”

Since its inception, PBR Teams has experienced steady growth across key metrics. The league welcomed 272,315 fans during the 2025 season, while broadcasts reached 28 million viewers nationwide. Momentum continues into 2026, with ticket sales for team homestand events pacing ahead year-over-year.

The league’s on-the-dirt performance has also reached new heights. Competitive balance remains a hallmark of elite team bull riding, with four different champions crowned in the league’s first four seasons. The level of competition continues to intensify, fueled by elite global talent and an increasingly challenging roster of bulls.

The league will evaluate several attractive markets in the U.S. and Canada for team locations as part of a structured sales process with decisions to be announced in the future.

BARRELS

Weekly Barrel Clinic Hot Mess Acres

4/7/26

Hot Mess Acres, Marana, AZ

Weekly barrel racing clinic at Hot Mess Acres in Marana — From Hot Mess to Arena Success. Open arena coaching focused on fundamentals, confidence, and fast times. All ages and levels welcome, multiple horses allowed. Private lessons available. $40 per person. Call/text 480-247-1570. 480-247-1570

Desert After Dark Barrel Series

4/9/26

Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena, Florence, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Desert After Dark 6-Week Thursday night barrel series at Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena in Florence. Open 5D $50, Youth 3D $35, Rookie 3D $20, Peewee. Exhibitions 5–6:30

PM. Race starts 7 PM. Series buckles to division winners. Must enter 4 of 6 to qualify. 480-755-8809

Olsen’s Events Barrels & Poles

4/9/26

Olsen’s Arena, Chino Valley, AZ

Olsen’s Events April Series. Time Onlys 4:00–5:15 PM, Race at 6:00 PM. Order of events: Peewee Poles, Open Poles, Peewee Barrels, Combined Draw Open Barrels. Ranch Coolers to 1st place in each division in Open 4D Barrels. Must attend 4 of 5 races for prizes. Sign up on Saddlebook.com. 928-202-2003 | https://www.saddlebook.com

Verde Valley Fair Barrel Racing Series

4/11/26 - 4/12/26

Verde Valley Fair Arena, Cottonwood, AZ

Prize: Saddle Certificates

Verde Valley Fair Arena Barrel Racing Series 2025-2026 finale weekend. Classes include 5D Open, 4D Youth, 4D Senior, PeeWee (8 & under), and 4D Green Horse/Novice. Arena fee $15/ horse, free for VVFA members. Cash only. Saddle certificates in Open Average (best 5 of 7). Yearend prizes 1st-3rd, must run 5 of 7 to qualify. 928-202-9001 | rodeogo.com

Flying E Arena Spring Barrel Series

4/11/26

Flying E Arena, Safford, AZ

Flying E Arena Spring Barrel Series in Safford. Relaxed atmosphere with affordable entry fees. Open 4D $40, Youth 3D under-14 $20, Peewee under-6 $10. Arena fee $10/rider. Books open 2 hours prior, exhibitions 1 hour prior. Time onlies $1 entered/$5 non-entered riders.

Weekly Barrel Clinic Hot Mess Acres

4/14/26

Hot Mess Acres, Marana, AZ

Desert After Dark Barrel Series

4/16/26

Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena, Florence, AZ

BR Diamond Spur Desert After Dark 6-Week Thursday night barrel series at Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena in Florence. Open 5D $50, Youth 3D $35, Rookie 3D $20, Peewee. Exhibitions 5–6:30 PM. Race starts 7 PM. Series buckles to division winners. Must enter 4 of 6 to qualify. 480-755-8809

Olsen’s Events Barrels & Poles

4/16/26

Olsen’s Arena, Chino Valley, AZ

Olsen’s Events April Series. Time Onlys 4:00–5:15 PM, Race at 6:00

PM. Order of events: Peewee Poles, Open Poles, Peewee Barrels, Combined Draw Open Barrels. Ranch Coolers to 1st place in each division in Open 4D Barrels. Must attend 4 of 5 races for prizes. Sign up on Saddlebook.com. 928-202-2003 | https://www.saddlebook.com

Arizona Dreams 4D Series

4/18/26

Lazy Windmill Ranch, Golden Valley, AZ Prize: $500 Added Arizona Dreams 4D Series at Lazy Windmill Ranch in Golden Valley. $500 Added Open 4D, $100 Added Youth and Senior, Peewee 100% payback. Exhibitions 10 AM–noon. Race starts 12:30 PM. Series buckles and prizes to Open and Youth. Must enter 3 of 4 jackpots for awards.

Olsen’s Events Barrels & Poles

4/23/26

Olsen’s Arena, Chino Valley, AZ Olsen’s Events April Series. Time Onlys 4:00–5:15 PM, Race at 6:00 PM. Order of events: Peewee Poles, Open Poles, Peewee Barrels, Combined Draw Open Barrels. Ranch Coolers to 1st place in each division in Open 4D Barrels. Must attend 4 of 5 races for prizes. Sign up on Saddlebook.com. 928-202-2003 | https://www.saddlebook.com

BR Diamond Spur Barrels & Poles

4/25/26

Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena, Florence, AZ Prize: $500 Added BR Diamond Spur Barrels & Poles Series at Charles Whitlow Rodeo Arena. 80% payback, $500 added, cash only. Barrels: Open 5D $50, Youth 3D $40, Rookie 3D $20. Poles: 4D $50. Must enter 3 of 4 jackpots to qualify for awards. 480-788-5509

Olsen’s Events Barrels & Poles

4/30/26

Olsen’s Arena, Chino Valley, AZ

Barrel Racing Clinic with Carrie Jankee Stevens

5/1/26

United Farms, Heber, AZ

Barrel racing clinic presented by Carrie Jankee Stevens at United Farms in Heber. Full day clinic 9 AM-4 PM with lunch provided. Limited spots available with $50 non-refundable deposit required. Tack sale, raffles, and vendor booths on site. Call 623-6870326 to reserve. 623-687-0326 | EquineWellBeing.org

BR Diamond Spur Barrels & Poles

5/16/26

NBHA Las Vegas Super Show

5/28/26 - 5/31/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV NBHA Las Vegas Super Show at South Point Arena — one of the biggest barrel racing events of the year. Four days of National Barrel Horse Association competition with Open, Youth and amateur divisions. Free to the public. Visit nbha.com for entry info and class schedule. 702-797-8005 | https:// nbha.com/shows/category/tour/

COW HORSE

May Madness and Novice Challenge

4/29/26 - 5/3/26

Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ Arizona Cutting Horse Association May Madness and Novice Challenge at Horseshoe Park — five days of NCHA-sanctioned cutting including the Novice Challenge for newer horses and riders. Open, Non-Pro, Amateur and Novice divisions. Contact Kathy Unfried at 928-277-6103 or arizonacuttinghorse@gmail.com. 480-358-3793 | https://azcha.com

NRCHA Kimes

Ranch Derby

5/27/26 - 6/6/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ

One of NRCHA’s premier major events for 4- and 5-year-old cow horses, offering multiple divisions from Open and Non Pro to boxing and limited classes. The Derby features snaffle and hackamore competition, special spectacles (including bridle events), and a Run For A Million qualifier. Two weeks of shows, vendors, and championship finals at WestWorld. 940-488-1500 | https://www.nrcha. com/events/nrcha-derby/

PCCHA Reyzin

The Cash Derby

6/5/26 - 6/14/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

PCCHA Reyzin The Cash Derby at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Ten days of Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association competition featuring the top cutting horses and riders on the West Coast. Free to the public. Visit pccha.com for entry information and full class schedule. 702-797-8005 | https:// pccha.com/

DRESSSAGE

ADA Schooling Show Series (CARA)

4/12/26

Central Arizona Riding Academy (CARA), San Tan Valley, AZ

ADA’s one-day schooling show at Central Arizona Riding Academy features USDF dressage tests (plus WDAA options) in a supportive format that’s ideal for building confidence and show experience. Expect a well-run day with judge feedback and a friendly atmosphere for riders moving up levels or introducing young horses. (480) 580-0634 | https://azdressage.org/event/ada-schoolingshow-series-sponsored-by-sherlinconsulting-group-2/

Schooling Show

Freeman Farms

4/18/26

Freeman Farms, Chino Valley, AZ Northern Arizona Chapter of ADA (NACADA) hosts a classical and western dressage schooling show at Freeman Farms in Chino Valley. A practical, low-pressure outing for riders wanting test experience, feedback, and a supportive community atmosphere. Entry and de-

tails are provided through NACADA’s calendar and entry page. https://azdressage.org/ event/schooling-show-nacada/2026-04-18/

LA Spring Dressage

4/25/26 - 4/26/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

LA Spring Dressage at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center — two days of dressage competition presented by Cornerstone Dressage. Open to riders across all levels from Introductory through Grand Prix. Free for spectators. Visit cornerstonedressage.com for class schedule and entry details. 818-840-9063 | https://cornerstonedressage.com

TDC Schooling Show

4/26/26

Circle D, Tucson, AZ

TDC Schooling Show hosted by the Tucson Dressage Club at Circle D in Tucson. Open to dressage riders seeking a welcoming show environment with quality judging. Judge: Nathalie Eikel-Baughman. Entries due April 21. For more info and prize entries visit tucsondressageclub.org. https://tucsondressageclub.org

Central Arizona Riding Academy (CARA) Schooling Show

5/10/26

Central Arizona Riding Academy (CARA), San Tan Valley, AZ

CARA’s May schooling show is a one-day dressage test opportunity focused on good mileage and constructive judging in a relaxed environment. Great for riders prepping for summer and fall recognized shows, introducing horses to the show ring, or simply putting a test on paper. Registration details are posted on CARA’s website. (480) 580-0634 | https://azdressage.org/event/central-arizonariding-academy-schooling-showseries/2026-05-10/

ADA Summer Heat Recognized Show

6/13/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ

Arizona Dressage Association’s Summer Heat recognized show offers USDF/USEF qualifying-score opportunities in a professionally managed setting at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Open to multiple levels and divisions, including Para Dressage and Western Dressage, with scheduling designed to avoid peak heat. Ideal for riders target-

ing championships and year-end awards.

https://azdressage.org/event/adasummer-heat-recognized-show/

Summer Heat Recognized Show

6/14/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ

Back-to-back with Summer Heat, ADA’s Some More Summer Heat recognized show provides another full day to earn USDF/USEF qualifying scores at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Competitors can maximize travel by riding both days, with divisions spanning Intro through Grand Prix plus Para and Western Dressage options. A strong mid-summer checkpoint for fall goals.

https://azdressage.org/event/adasome-more-summer-heat/

Central Arizona Riding Academy (CARA) Schooling Show

6/27/26

Central Arizona Riding Academy (CARA), San Tan Valley, AZ CARA’s late-June schooling show

is a one-day dressage test event built for practical show experience and helpful judge feedback. A good option for riders wanting to keep horses in a consistent competition routine through the summer. Visit CARA online for entries, schedules, and any division updates. (480) 580-0634 | https://azdressage.org/event/central-arizonariding-academy-schooling-showseries/2026-06-27/

HORSE SHOW

Region 7 Arabian HA/AA Championship Horse Show

4/14/26 - 4/19/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ

Region 7 Arabian Horse Association Regional Championships at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Six-day event with pre show April 14-15 and championships April 16-19. One of the premier Arabian, HalfArabian, and Anglo-Arabian horse

HORSE SHOW

shows in the Southwest. Details at aharegion7.org. https://aharegion7.org

AzQHA Spring Fling

4/23/26 - 4/26/26

WestWorld of Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ

Prize: $7500 Added

AzQHA Spring Fling at WestWorld Scottsdale — four days of NRCHA and NSBA-sanctioned competition. Full slate of Ranch Riding, Cow Horse, Trail, Boxing and All Around classes. Over $7,500 in added money across divisions. Full class schedule at azqha.com. https://azqha.com

Chino Valley Horse Show

5/2/26

Chino Valley Equestrian Park, Chino Valley, AZ

Chino Valley Equestrian Park presents an All Breed Western Horse Show. This event welcomes horses of all breeds to compete in western classes at the beautiful Chino Valley Equestrian Park facility. Located in the high country of

Arizona, this show offers a chance to compete in a scenic setting with quality facilities. More information to follow as the event date approaches. A great opportunity for western riders in the Prescott/ Chino Valley area to show close to home.

Pinnacle Circuit Horse Show

5/6/26 - 5/10/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

Pinnacle Circuit Horse Show at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Five days of premier AQHA-affiliated quarter horse competition. Free to the public. Part of the Pinnacle Circuit series leading to the AQHA West Level 1 Championships. Visit pinnaclecircuit.com for class schedule.

702-797-8005 | https://pinnaclecircuit.com/

AQHA West Level 1 Championships

5/11/26 - 5/16/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

AQHA West Level 1 Championships at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Six days of American Quarter Horse Association championship competition for Level 1 competitors from the western re-

gion. Free to the public. Visit aqha. com for class schedule and qualifying info.

702-797-8005 | https://pinnaclecircuit.com/

APHA Zone 2 Horse Show

5/21/26 - 5/24/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

APHA Zone 2 Horse Show at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Four days of American Paint Horse Association zone-level competition open to all APHA members. Free to the public. Visit aphazone2.com for class schedule, entry deadlines and hotel information.

702-797-8005 | https://www.aphazone2.com/

The Celebration EMO

6/25/26 - 7/5/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

The Celebration at South Point Arena in Las Vegas — eleven days of premier NSBA and EMO western performance horse competition. One of the largest western horse shows in the country featuring ranch riding, reining, cow horse and more. Free to the public. Visit thecelebrationlasvegas. com.

702-797-8005 | https://www.thecelebrationlasvegas.com.

HUNTER JUMPER

Pacific Ridge Show

Jumping

- Spring 1 (National)

4/9/26 - 4/12/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Spring 1 National at LAEC — four days of USEF national-level hunter/jumper competition at the iconic LA Equestrian Center in Burbank. New footing upgrades for 2026. Part of a 10-event series April through October. Spectators free. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive. com.

818-840-9063 | https://pacificridgeshowjumping.com

Pacific Ridge Show

Jumping - Spring 2 (Regional)

5/1/26 - 5/3/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Spring 2 Regional at LAEC —

three days of regional hunter/ jumper competition. Designed to be more accessible and affordable than the national shows, inviting riders who can’t commit to multiweek circuits. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive. com.

818-840-9063 | https://pacificridgeshowjumping.com

Hunter/Jumper Clinic

with Jill Craven

5/2/26

United Farms, Heber, AZ Prize: $200

Hunter/jumper clinic with Jill Craven at United Farms in Heber. All levels welcome and encouraged. Limited to just 10 riders with $50 non-refundable deposit required. Gates open at 8 AM. Contact United Farms at (602) 540-0876 to reserve your spot. (602) 540-0876

Pacific

Ridge Show Jumping - Spring 3 (Regional)

5/8/26 - 5/10/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Spring 3 Regional at LAEC — three days of regional hunter/ jumper competition at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. Part of the 10-event 2026 Pacific Ridge series spanning April through October. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive.com.

818-840-9063 | https://pacificridgeshowjumping.com

Pacific Ridge Show Jumping - Summer 1

6/5/26 - 6/7/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Summer 1 at LAEC — part of the 10-event 2026 series spanning April through October at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. National-level hunter/jumper competition with new footing upgrades. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive.com. 818-840-9063 | https://pacificridgeshowjumping.com

Pacific Ridge Show Jumping - Summer 2

7/10/26 - 7/12/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

Pacific Ridge Show Jumping Summer 2 at LAEC — part of the 10-event 2026 series spanning April through October at the Los

Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. Regional-level hunter/ jumper competition with new footing upgrades. Free for spectators. Entries at prsj.showgroundslive. com. 818-840-9063 | https://pacificridgeshowjumping.com

HUNTER JUMPER

The Run For A Million

8/12/26 - 8/15/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV Prize: $1,000,000

The Run For A Million at South Point Arena — the richest reining event in the world with a $1 million purse. Features Reining, Cutting Horse Challenge, Cow Horse Challenge, Youth and Non-Pro events. Free general admission with ticketed championship nights. Visit therunforamillion.com. 702-797-8005 | https://therunforamillion.com/

High Roller Reining Classic Horse Show

9/10/26 - 9/17/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

High Roller Reining Classic at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Eight days of premier NRHA-affiliated reining competition. One of the most prestigious reining events of the fall season with Open, NonPro, Amateur and Youth divisions. Free to the public. Visit highrollerreiningclassic.com. 702-797-8005 | http://www.highrollerreiningclassic.com/

RODEO

Mile High PBR

4/10/26 - 4/11/26

Findlay Toyota Center,

Prescott Valley, AZ

It’s Bull Time! Mile High PBR brings the PBR Touring Pro Division to Prescott Valley for two nights of world-class bull riding action. Watch the best bull riders in the sport compete against elite bucking bulls at the Findlay Toyota Center. Sponsored by Yavapai Bottle Gas, Coors Light, and Bucky’s Casino. This event draws top competitors seeking valuable PBR points and offers fans an upclose experience with professional bull riding. A must-attend for rodeo fans in the high country seeking adrenaline-pumping western entertainment.

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Rodeo Kingman

4/10/26 - 4/11/26

Kingman Rodeo Arena, Kingman, AZ

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo in Kingman, AZ. Two days of professional rodeo featuring all PRCA events. A Route 66 rodeo stop on the Turquoise Circuit in northwestern Arizona. Visit explorekingman.com for local event details and ticket information. https://www.explorekingman.com

Challenge of Champions Bull Riding

4/18/26

Buckeye Equestrian & Events Center, Buckeye, AZ

Challenge of Champions Tour Bull Riding at Buckeye Equestrian Center — this event sold out last year. One night of elite bull riding under the covered arena. Gates open 5 PM, action starts 7 PM. VIP tables, box seats and general admission available. RV camping on site. Tickets at aftontickets.com — don’t wait.

623-691-6900 | https://www.buckeyearena.com/cctbullriding

A Place for Hannah Poker Run and Bull Riding

4/18/26

Buckeye Equestrian & Events Center, Buckeye, AZ

A Place for Hannah Poker Run and Bull Riding at Buckeye Equestrian Center. Charity event combining a community poker run with evening bull riding action. Poker run begins at 7 AM. A family-friendly event supporting a meaningful cause in the Buckeye equestrian community. 623-691-6900 | https://www.buckeyearena.com

The American Rodeo West RegionalsTimed Event Slack

4/30/26 - 5/1/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

The American Rodeo West Regionals Timed Event Slack at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Two days of slack competition for timed event qualifiers vying for a spot at The American. Free to

the public. Visit americanrodeo. com for competitor and schedule details.

702-797-8005 | https://americanrodeo.com/regional-finals/

The American Rodeo West Regionals Roughstock Event

5/1/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

The American Rodeo West Regionals Roughstock Event at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Top roughstock competitors from the western region compete for their shot at The American. Ticketed event — purchase at Ticketmaster. Visit americanrodeo.com for details.

702-797-8005 | https://americanrodeo.com/regional-finals/

The American Rodeo West Regionals

5/2/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

CONTINUED PAGE 46

The American Rodeo West Regionals final competition day at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Western region’s top all-around rodeo competitors battle for advancement to The American. Ticketed event — purchase at Ticketmaster. Visit americanrodeo.com for full details. 702-797-8005 | https://americanrodeo.com/regional-finals/

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Rodeo - Payson

5/15/26 - 5/16/26

Payson Rodeo Grounds, Payson, AZ

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo in Payson, AZ — spring edition. Two days of professional rodeo in the Rim Country featuring all PRCA events. Payson hosts two circuit rodeos per year, spring and late summer. Visit paysonprorodeo.com for tickets and schedule details. https://www.paysonprorodeo.com

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Rodeo

Window Rock Navajo Nation Fair

5/29/26 - 5/31/26

Window Rock Fairgrounds, Window Rock, AZ

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo at the Navajo Nation Fairgrounds in Window Rock, AZ. Three days of professional rodeo honoring the rich Native American rodeo tradition. Features all PRCA events with strong Native American cowboy participation. Visit nnfair.org for schedule and tickets. https://www.nnfair.org

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Rodeo Flagstaff

6/4/26 - 6/6/26

Flagstaff Rodeo Grounds, Flagstaff, AZ

Turquoise Circuit PRCA Pro Rodeo in Flagstaff, AZ. Three days of professional rodeo at 7,000 feet elevation in the pines. Features all PRCA events including bull riding, barrel racing and team roping. A cool summer escape with great rodeo action. Visit flagstaffrodeo. com for tickets. https://www.flagstaffrodeo.com

Bull Bash Championship Bullriding

6/12/26 - 6/13/26

Stargazer Pavilion - Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, Camp Verde, AZ Prize: $3500 Added Bull Bash Championship Bullrid-

ing returns to Stargazer Pavilion at Cliff Castle Casino in Camp Verde. Open $3,000 added/$100 entry, Novice $500 added/$75 entry, both 100% payback. Mutton Bustin’ 6 & under $20 at 6:30 PM. Entries open June 1–5. Text 928821-0489 to enter. 928-821-0489 | https://cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Turquoise

Circuit PRCA

Rodeo Prescott

6/29/26 - 7/5/26

Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo Grounds, Prescott, AZ

Prescott Frontier Days — the World’s Oldest Rodeo, a Turquoise Circuit PRCA event since 1888. Seven days of July 4th professional rodeo featuring all PRCA events. One of Arizona’s premier western celebrations combining rodeo, parade and community festivities. Visit worldsoldestrodeo. com.

https://worldsoldestrodeo.com

602-541-8880

SPECIAL EVENT

The Beauty Power and Elegance of the Horse

4/7/26

Wickenburg Art Center, Wickenburg, AZ

Two-session equine art workshop with award-winning artist Shelly Hackett. Session 1 covers pencil sketches exploring equine anatomy. Session 2 brings the horse to life in paint. Non-member $150, member $130 covers both classes. Register at wickenburgartclub. org. 928-684-0488 | https://wickenburgartclub.org

Double Class

Training Horse Care & Human CPR

4/11/26

Dreamcatcher Healing Ranch, Cave Creek, AZ Prize: $89-$139 Double class with Teri Ann Tate of AZ Equine First Aid & Hearts & Wounds. Morning session covers essentials of horse care emergencies. Afternoon session covers human CPR, AED, and first aid. Hands-on training. Horse Care $89, Human CPR $65, or both for $139. Call 602-753-6734 to register. 602-753-6734 | heartsandwounds.com

Huachuca Saddle Club Gymkhana Series 1

4/11/26

The Outlaw Arena, Hereford, AZ

Huachuca Saddle Club Gymkhana Series at The Outlaw Arena in Hereford. Barrels, poles, and two additional classes across six age divisions from lead line to 40 & over. Adult $9/class, Youth $8/ class, or $40 flat for members. Must ride 3 of 4 dates to qualify for awards.

www.huachucasaddleclub.org

Sunset Ranch

Obstacle Challenge

4/11/26 - 4/12/26

The Barn in Goodyear, Goodyear, AZ

Sunset Ranch Obstacle Challenge at The Barn in Goodyear. Realworld obstacles, confident horses — all levels welcome. In-hand and mounted divisions available in a fun, supportive environment. Twoday event open to riders of every discipline and experience level. Register at sunsetranch.us. https://sunsetranch.us

Desert Donkey Experiences Clinic

4/11/26

Desert Donkey Experiences, Prescott, AZ

Desert Donkey Experiences oneday clinic in Prescott with instructor Alyssa Berlew. Covers Introduction to Donkey Ownership and Handling. $25/person for the first 20 registrants. Includes equine tack sale, breakfast burritos, and 12 acres to explore. Sponsored by Jem’s Legacy.

The Beauty Power and Elegance of the Horse

4/14/26

Wickenburg Art Center, Wickenburg, AZ

Session 2 of Shelly Hackett’s equine art workshop — bringing the horse to life in paint after Session 1’s pencil sketch foundation. Award-winning instruction for all skill levels. Non-member $150, member $130 covers both sessions. Register at wickenburgartclub.org. 928-684-0488 | https://wickenburgartclub.org

Show Me The Money

Heidi Horse Shows Western Competition

4/15/26 - 4/19/26

Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Burbank, CA

Heidi Horse Shows presents Show Me The Money — five days of western competition at LAEC featuring a full slate of classes across multiple divisions including western pleasure, horsemanship, reining and ranch riding. Open to exhibitors from across the region. Free for spectators. Visit heidihorseshows.com. 818-840-9063 | https://www.heidihorseshows.com

Horse Clinic with Dema Paul 4/16/26

G-Shining Heart Ranch, Scottsdale, AZ

Horse Clinic with NRCHA Hall of Famer Dema Paul at G-Shining Heart Ranch in Scottsdale. Covers Ranch Riding, Cowhorse, Trail and Barrel Racing. Limited to 12 riders. $300/rider, $50 auditors, lunch included. $100 refundable deposit due by 4/12. Register: rockingtranquilityranch@gmail.com.

Willcox West FestChuck Wagon CookOff & Ranch Rodeo

4/17/26 - 4/19/26

Willcox West Fest Grounds, Willcox, AZ

12th Annual Willcox West Fest featuring chuck wagon cook-off with 8 competing teams, ranch rodeo, mounted shooting by Tombstone Ghost Riders, team roping, goat roping, live music, 39+ vendors, and cowboy church. Free parking, admission by donation. Mesquite steak dinner Saturday, chuckwagon breakfast Sunday. 505-220-5842

AZVRHA Ranch Versatility Show

4/17/26 - 4/19/26

TBD, AZ

AZVRHA Ranch Versatility Horse Association show — dates updated to April 17–19 to avoid event conflicts. Three days of ranch versatility competition. Full schedule, flyers and registration details coming soon. Follow AZVRHA on social media for updates. #RanchVersatility #HorseShowReady.

Arizona Working Equitation Club Youth Clinic - Apr 18

4/18/26

3-H Ranch, Cornville, AZ

Prize: FREE

FREE Youth Working Equitation Clinics with clinicians Summer Star (International Youth Working Equitation Competitor, Portugal 2024) and Judy Mackenzie (USAWE Professional Instructor). Working Equitation is the fastest growing equestrian discipline in the USA, comprising 4 phases: Dressage, Ease of Handling (Obstacles), Speed, and Cattle. Level 1 is walk/trot only, Levels 2+ include canter. Riders can ride English or Western - for riders up to 17 years old. DATES/LOCATIONS: Feb 21 at 3-H Ranch, 7120 E Coyote Trail, Cornville, AZ. Mar 7 at 4 Star Ranch, 5550 E Longhorn Road, Chino Valley, AZ. Apr 18 at 3-H Ranch, Cornville, AZ. Overnight stalls/dry camping available. Attend one, two, or all three sessions. Limited spots! 303-358-6118

3 Cans Up Summer Gymkhana Series

4/18/26

Olsen’s Arena, Chino Valley, AZ

3 Cans Up Summer Gymkhana Series at Olsen’s Arena in Chino Valley. Aged classes $60/4 events (3 speed + 1 obstacle), Leadline $30, Lil’ Wranglers $40. Age divisions 11-under through 50+, Cruizers and Men’s class. Buck-

les, awards and Target Saddle to series winner. Must attend 5 of 6. Call Chris 928-716-2362. 928-716-2362

Scottsdale Saddle Club Gymkhana

4/19/26

Scottsdale Rodeo Grounds, Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale Saddle Club gymkhana at the Rodeo Grounds featuring professional grade ground and facilities with divisions for every level of rider. Part of the 2026 season series running monthly through December. Visit scottsdalesaddleclub.com for full details, classes, and entry information. www.scottsdalesaddleclub.com

Let It Ride Team

Penning and Ranch Sorting

4/22/26 - 4/25/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

Let It Ride Team Penning and Ranch Sorting at South Point’s Priefert Pavilion in Las Vegas. Four days of Legacy Championships-sanctioned penning and sorting competition. Free to the

public. Visit legacychampionships. wordpress.com for divisions and entry info. 702-797-8005 | https://legacychampionships.wordpress.com/

Obstacle Clinic

4/25/26

Tombstone, AZ

Obstacle Clinic hosted by Regi Richter Basinger in Tombstone. Summer schedule in effect — Saturday sessions run 8 to 11 AM. A hands-on opportunity to work your horse through real-world obstacles in a supportive Arizona setting. All levels welcome.

Saddle Club Two Day Gymkhana

4/25/26 - 4/26/26

Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, Prize: Cash & Prizes

Two day gymkhana hosted by Missionview Saddle Club. Saturday events: Barrels, Tailspin, Streaking Poles, Double Bowtie. Sunday events: Horseshoe Barrels, Speed Barrels, Pylon, Bowtie. Age groups: Buckaroo (lead line), 10 & Under, and up to 4 additional age groups. Cash and prizes paid per event and age group; high point and overall winners each day.

SPECIAL EVENT

$100 entry per rider both days, $55 one day; Buckaroo $60 both days, $35 one day. Entry deadline April 13, $10 late fee. Raffles and 50/50 each day. Saturday books open 7:30 AM, grand entry 8:00 AM. Sunday books open 7:30 AM, show starts 8:00 AM. https://www.missionviewsaddleclub.com

Arizona Saddle Club Gymkhana Saddle Series - April 26

4/26/26

Dunns Arena, Litchfield Park, AZ

Arizona Saddle Club Gymkhana Saddle Series at Dunns Arena in Litchfield Park. Books open 4 PM, start 5 PM. Ribbons 1st–5th in each age group, trophies for high point and reserve champion. Series high point winner in each age group earns a saddle. Visit arizonasaddleclub.com.

https://arizonasaddleclub.com

Horsinalities Pony Club - Summer Session

5/8/26 - 7/10/26

Come Back Ranch Animal Sanctuary, Eagar, AZ

Horsinalities Pony Club 10-week summer session at Come Back Ranch Animal Sanctuary in Eagar. Ages 7–18. Every Friday 9 AM–1 PM. $600 for 10 weeks or $60 per session. Learn horse care, horsinalities, tie-dye crafts, horseshoe decorating and horse painting. Scholarships available. comebackranch.org. 928-270-8932 | https://comebackranch.org

Huachuca Saddle Club Gymkhana Series 1 - May 9

5/9/26

The Outlaw Arena, Hereford, AZ

www.huachucasaddleclub.org

Randy Rogers Band Concert

5/14/26

The Maverick, Tucson, AZ Texas country music favorites Randy Rogers Band bring their live show to The Maverick in Tucson. Known for hits like “Kiss Me in the Dark,” “In My Arms Instead,” and “Trouble,” the band has been a staple of the Texas/ Red Dirt country scene for over two decades. Their energetic live performances and authentic country sound make them a must-see for fans of real country music. The Maverick provides an intimate venue setting perfect for experiencing this acclaimed band up close. tucsonmaverick.com

Pinnacle Equestrian Tour Show Jumping

5/15/26 - 5/17/26

Buckeye Sports Arena, Buckeye, Three day show jumping competition hosted by Pinnacle Equestrian Tour. Covered arena with premium stalls with mats, VIP options, full bar, and electric evening classes under the lights. RV spots and stall reservations available. Entries open on Showgrounds Live. Restaurant and veterinary on site.

NATRC Showdown at Sunset

5/16/26 - 5/17/26

Sunset Ranch, Seligman, AZ

North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC) Region 2 LeD Rides presents ‘Showdown at Sunset’ at Sunset Ranch. Sunset Ranch Productions. Fabulous location, beautiful area, fun trails. Ride Manager: Kandace French Contreras. natrc.org

Scottsdale Saddle Club Gymkhana

5/16/26

Scottsdale Rodeo Grounds, Scottsdale, AZ

Showdown at Sunset NATRC Ride

5/16/26 - 5/17/26

Seligman Route 66 Rodeo Grounds, Seligman, AZ

Showdown at Sunset NATRC Ride — Where Legends are Made. Leisure Division competitive trail ride at the historic Route 66 rodeo grounds in Seligman, AZ. Ride one or two days. Open to Adult and Junior divisions. Hosted by Kandace French Contreras.

Three Day Clinic with Carl Bledsoe

5/29/26 - 5/31/26

4 Beat Ranch, Snowflake, AZ

Three day horsemanship clinic with Carl Bledsoe, 2022 Humane Horseman of the Year. Focus on classical horsemanship training for horses and riders of all disciplines, specializing in gaited horse breeds. Topics include gait analysis, biomechanics and horse anatomy, groundwork and communication techniques, and rider balance and harmony. Clinic fee $850. 602-751-9608

Chino Valley Cowboy Challenge and EXCA Race Series

5/30/26 - 5/31/26

Chino Valley Equestrian Park,

Chino Valley, AZ

High Plain Tumblers present the Chino Valley Cowboy Challenge and EXCA Race Series. Saturday: workshops 9 AM–1 PM plus Cowboy Challenge obstacle course. Sunday: EXCA Sanctioned Double Point races with divisions from Young Guns to Pro. Judges Dee Ladd and Jeff Cook. Overnight stalls available. cvcowboychallenge@gmail.com.

714-721-2220 | https://ExtremeCowboyAssociation.com

Wild West Saddle Up 2026 Fundraiser

6/5/26 - 6/7/26

Buckin’ Burro Ranch, Prescott, AZ Wild West Saddle Up 2026 at Buckin’ Burro Ranch, Prescott. Weekend Pass $325 includes guided trail rides, 4 meals, ranch activities and Saturday Shindig. Shindig-Only $125 for Saturday night live music, cocktails, dinner and auction. Music by Palomino Country. Benefits Animal Guardian Network sanctuary. Contact Carrie 602-568-5636. 602-568-5636 | https://SaddleUp2026.eventbrite.com

Working Equitation Clinic with Tessa Nicolet

6/6/26 - 6/7/26

Four Beat Ranch LLC, Concho, AZ

Working equitation clinic and private lessons with Tessa Nicolet, USAWE Professional Instructor and L Judge. Full day clinic covers dressage and obstacle handling. June 7 offers custom private lessons. New and experienced riders welcome. Camping and pens available. Sign up at CohesiveHorsemanship.com. www.CohesiveHorsemanship.com

Obstacle Clinic and Challenge - Dos Lomas

6/6/26

Dos Lomas Wild Ranch, Snowflake, AZ

Obstacle Clinic and Challenge at Dos Lomas Wild Ranch in Snowflake — over 30 obstacles in the White Mountains. Clinic 8–10 AM, open practice 10 AM–2 PM, challenge from 2 PM with awards. $75/ horse-rider combo includes all. Gift for every entry, prizes for top 5. Contact: dlwildranch@gmail.com.

602-397-7070

Working Equitation Clinic and Private Lessons with Tessa Nicolet

6/6/26 - 6/7/26

Four Beat Ranch LLC, Concho, AZ

Working Equitation clinic and private lessons with Tessa Nicolet, USAWE Professional Instructor and L judge. June 6 full day WE Clinic starts with dressage then applies dressage work to obstacles for ease of handling trial. June 7 private lessons fully custom to individual needs. New and experienced riders welcome. Camping and pens available. https://www.CohesiveHorsemanship.com

20th Annual FUNdamentals Horse Camp & FUNkhana & Trail Challenge

6/9/26 - 6/13/26

Buckin Burro Ranch, Williamson Valley, AZ

Prize: $1,000 per student 20th Annual FUNdamentals Horse Camp at Buckin Burro Ranch near Prescott. Five days and four nights of horsemanship for girls ages 9-16. Includes meals, housing, stalls, individualized instruction, speed events, trail rides, daily challenges, award ceremony, and trophys. Indoor arena and trails. Limited to 24 spots. $200 deposit to reserve.

602-448-3910

Gold Rush Classic Peruvian Horse Show

6/19/26 - 6/21/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

Gold Rush Classic Peruvian Horse Show at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Three days of Southern California Peruvian Paso Horse Club competition showcasing the elegance and smooth gait of Peruvian horses. Free to the public. Visit scpphc.org for class schedule and entry details. 702-797-8005 | https://scpphc.org/grc/

Steve Kutie Clinic

7/4/26 - 7/5/26

Santori Ranch, LLC, Chino Valley, AZ

Two day clinic with Steve Kutie, national champion in multiple events and international competitor. $600 per rider for both days. $10 haul-in fee per horse per day for facility use. $20 audit fee. Hosted by Yeguada Karma CH Traditional PRE Andalusians and Nathan Burger at Santori Ranch, a full service boarding and training stable family owned since 1994.

Morgan Medallion Classic Charity Horse Show

7/15/26 - 7/19/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

Morgan Medallion Classic Charity Horse Show at South Point’s Priefert Pavilion in Las Vegas. Five days of Morgan horse competition raising funds for charity. Free to the public. A showcase of the Morgan breed’s versatility and athleticism. Visit morganmedallion.com for entry and schedule info. 702-797-8005 | http://www.morganmedallion.com/

CMSA Western US Championship

7/23/26 - 7/26/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

CMSA Western US Championship at South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Four days of Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association western regional championship competition. Riders in period costume shoot balloon targets at full gallop. Free to the public. Visit cmsaevents. com for division and entry info. 702-797-8005 | https://cmsaevents.com/

National Stock Horse Association Futurity and Derby

8/18/26 - 8/23/26

South Point Arena & Equestrian Center, Las Vegas, NV

National Stock Horse Association

Futurity and Derby at South Point

Arena in Las Vegas. Six days of NSHA competition showcasing top stock horses in ranch riding, reining and cow horse events. Free to the public. Visit nationalstockhorse.com for class schedule and entry details. 702-797-8005 | https://nationalstockhorse.com/

QC 4H Horse Project Monthly

Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

QC 4H Horse Project monthly meetings at Horseshoe Park in Queen Creek. Youth horse program focused on horsemanship, animal husbandry and community leadership. Open to youth ages 5–18 interested in horses and equestrian activities. Contact Horseshoe Park at 480-358-3793 for meeting schedule. 480-358-3793 | https://www.queencreekaz.gov/government/horseshoe-park-equestrian-centre

Heart Cry Cowboy Church Monthly

Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

Heart Cry Cowboy Church monthly gathering at Horseshoe Park in

Queen Creek. A community worship experience in the western tradition welcoming horses, families and all who appreciate the cowboy way of life. Free to attend. Check Horseshoe Park event calendar for specific dates. 480-358-3793 | https://www.queencreekaz.gov/government/horseshoe-park-equestrian-centre

Chandler Vaqueros Saddle Club Rodeo

Saturdays Sept-May

Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, Queen Creek, AZ

Chandler Vaqueros Saddle Club monthly rodeos at Horseshoe Park — season runs September through May. Events include Goat Pulling, Goat Tying, Barrel Racing, Pole Bending and Speed events. Age groups 3–8, 9–12, 13–18, 19–39 and 40+. Free for spectators. All levels welcome, volunteer-run nonprofit club. 480-358-3793

Tom Wicklund Drills & Maneuvers - Weekly Classes

Tuesdays/Wednesdays/ Thursdays

Performance Horse Arena, Cave

SPECIAL EVENT

Creek, AZ

Weekly group horsemanship classes with Tom Wicklund at Performance Horse Arena. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 5:30 PM,

For Personal Service Cell: 602-390-3555

EMAIL: bridleandbit@aol.com

Disclaimer

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

Thursdays at 10 AM. Focus on balance, hind quarters, forehand, and flexing. All disciplines and breeds welcome. New topics each week. $30 per session, space limited, pre-register. www.performancehorsearena.com

Sorta Sorting

Practice & Ranch Horse Activities

Wednesdays/Saturdays

Flying E Ranch - New Arena, Wickenburg, AZ

Weekly sorta sorting practice plus obstacle course and trail course at Flying E Ranch’s new arena in Wickenburg. Wednesdays and Saturdays starting at 9 AM. Presented by Wickenburg’s Ultimate Ranch & Stock Horse Challenge. Open to all levels looking to sharpen their skills.

ROPING

Roper Nation

Tuesday Ropings

04/07/2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: 11.5 Over 40 & All Ladies, #9.5 Over 40 & All Ladies, #8.5 Over 40 & All Ladies

Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Tuesday Ropings on April 7, 2026. Books close at 9:15 AM, rope at 9:30 AM. Three ropings, open to ropers over 40 and all ladies: 11.5 (pick or draw, $150/ roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, 80% payback, handicapped, capped at 7+ heeler); #9.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 5+ heeler); #8.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 4+). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Roper Nation

Thursday Morning Ropings

04/09/2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: #8.5 Everyone Over 60, #7.5 Everyone Over 60, #6.5 Everyone Over 60 Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Thursday Morning Ropings on April 9, 2026, open to everyone over 60. Books close at 9:15 AM, rope at 9:30 AM. Three ropings: #8.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 4+); #7.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, 3-steer, handicapped, capped at 4.5); #6.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 3+). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Roper Nation Thursday Night Ropings

04/09/2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: #10.5 All Ages, #13.5 Slide

Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Thursday Night Ropings on April 9, 2026. Books close at 6:15 PM, rope at 6:30 PM. Two ropings: #10.5 All Ages (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 6+ heeler); #13.5 Slide (pick or draw, $100/ roper, enter 4x, 4-steer, max 4 seconds up or down, books will not close before 7:30 PM). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Dynamite Arena

Legends Fridays

04/10/2026

Dynamite Arena, Cave Creek, AZ

Divisions: 7.5 2-Steer 50+, 8.5 Legends 60+, 9.5 Megabucks 50+, 10.5 High Roller 21+ Dynamite Arena in Cave Creek, Arizona presents Legends Fridays — Winning Never Gets Old! — on April 10, 2026. Entries close at 9:30 AM with the first roping at 10:00 AM. Four ropings offered: the 7.5 2-Steer 50+ / Cowgirls Over 40 (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $150 entry, enter 3x, 2-steer, handicapped, 4.5 cap — trophy buckles on closing day); the 8.5 Legends 60+ / Cowgirls Over 40 (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $150 entry, enter 3x, 3-steer, handicapped, 4.5 cap, books close 10:00 AM — trophy buckles every week); the 9.5 Megabucks 50+ / Cowgirls Over 40 (pick or draw, $100 per roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, handicapped, 5.5 cap, 70% payback — trophy buckles on closing day); and the 10.5 High Roller 21+ presented by Classic (pick or draw, $150 per roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, 6.5 cap, 80% payback — books won’t close before 1:00 PM). 2026 Global Handicap Card required. Cash or credit cards only, ATM on-site. 406.396.8199 | dynamitearena.com

2nd Annual Martin Air Cash Classic 04/11/2026

Welcome Home Ranch, Gilbert, AZ Divisions: #8.5 Cash Roping, #6.5 Cash 2-Steer Roping Prize: $15000

Double E Professionally Run Team Ropings presents the 2nd Annual Martin Air Heating & Cooling Cash Classic at Welcome Home Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Two ropings with $15,000 in Hi Point Money, 10 trophy buckles, and 2 custom saddles on the line. The #8.5 Cash Roping (1st Roping): books open 9:00 AM, close 10:00 AM; pick 1/draw 2 or draw 3 for $180 per man, enter 3x for 9 runs total; capped at 4.5 roper; top 30 to short round; 3-steer progressive handicapped; $10,000 to Hi Point Winner of #8.5 (guaranteed at 300 paid teams); trophy saddles to average winners. The #6.5 Cash 2-Steer Roping (2nd Roping): pick 1 draw 2 or draw 3 for $180 per man, enter 3x for 9 runs max; capped at 3.5 roper; top 40 to short round; 2-steer progressive handicapped; $5,000 to Hi Point Winner of #6.5 (guaranteed at 150 paid teams); prize line pays trophy buckles and cash to 1st–4th, trophy buckles to 5th. Points

awarded 1st–15th in #8.5 average and #6.5 for Hi Point Money. Fivesecond barrier. Current USTRC, WSTR, Global card and Photo ID required to collect winnings. Cards can be purchased on-site. Cash or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover; add 3%), payback in cash. 602-390-4130 | ropingfinder.com

Bob Felins 3rd Annual Memorial Roping

4/11/26

Diamond B Ranch, Florence, AZ Prize: 75% payback (12 Slide), 70% payback (9.5 Handicap) 3rd Annual memorial roping honoring Bob Felkins at Diamond B Ranch, Florence AZ. Two divisions: #12 Slide (P1/D1, $200, 4 steer, 75% payback) and #9.5 Handicap (P1/D1, $150, 3 steer, 5.5 cap, 70% payback). Cash only. Cattle by Velazquez Productions. 602-526-2271, 505-414-2787

Dynamite Sundays

04/12/2026

Dynamite Arena, Cave Creek, AZ

Divisions: 8.5 2-Steer, 9.5 Legends 40+, 10.5 Dyn-O-Mite, 11.5 Handicapped, 13.5 Sunday’s Classic Slide

Dynamite Arena in Cave Creek, Arizona — home of team roping since 1972 — hosts Dynamite Sundays on April 12, 2026, with everyone welcome. Entries close at 9:00 AM and the first roping starts at 9:30 AM. Five ropings run: the 8.5 2-Steer (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $150 entry, enter 3x, 4.5 cap, handicapped, 2-steer); the 9.5 Legends 40+ / Cowgirls Over 30 (pick or draw, $120 per roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, handicapped, 5.5 cap, 70% payback); the 10.5 Dyn-O-Mite (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $150 entry, enter 3x, 4-steer, handicapped, no caps — books close at 10:30 AM); the 11.5 Handicapped (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $150 entry, enter 3x, 4-steer); and the 13.5 Sunday’s Classic Slide presented by Classic (pick or draw, $120 entry, enter 4x, 4-steer, handicap up & down 1.5 sec per number with max 6 sec added or subtracted, 70% payback — books won’t close before 2:00 PM). 2026 Global Handicap Card required. Cash or credit cards only, ATM on-site. 406.396.8199 | dynamitearena. com

Roper Nation Tuesday Ropings

04/14, 21,/2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: 11.5 Over 40 & All Ladies, #9.5 Over 40 & All Ladies, #8.5 Over 40 & All Ladies

Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Tuesday Ropings on April 14, 2026. Books close at 9:15 AM, rope at 9:30 AM. Three ropings, open to ropers over 40 and all ladies: 11.5 (pick or draw, $150/ roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, 80% payback, handicapped, capped at 7+ heeler); #9.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 5+ heeler); #8.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 4+). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Roper Nation Thursday Morning Ropings

04/16, 23 2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: #8.5 Everyone Over 60, #7.5 Everyone Over 60, #6.5 Everyone Over 60

Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Thursday Morning Ropings on April 16, 2026, open to everyone over 60. Books close at 9:15 AM, rope at 9:30 AM. Three ropings: #8.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 4+); #7.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, 3-steer, handicapped, capped at 4.5); #6.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 3+). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Roper Nation Thursday Night Ropings

04/16, 23 /2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: #10.5 All Ages, #13.5 Slide

Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Thursday Night Ropings on April 16, 2026. Books close at 6:15 PM, rope at 6:30 PM. Two ropings: #10.5 All Ages (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handi-

capped, capped at 6+ heeler); #13.5 Slide (pick or draw, $100/ roper, enter 4x, 4-steer, max 4 seconds up or down, books will not close before 7:30 PM). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Dynamite Arena Legends Fridays Season Closer

04/17/2026

Dynamite Arena, Cave Creek, AZ

Divisions: 7.5 2-Steer 50+, 8.5 Legends 60+, 9.5 Megabucks 50+, 10.5 High Roller 21+ Dynamite Arena in Cave Creek, Arizona presents the Legends Fridays Season Closer — Winning Never Gets Old! — on April 17, 2026. Entries close at 9:30 AM with the first roping at 10:00 AM. Four ropings offered: the 7.5 2-Steer 50+ / Cowgirls Over 40 (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $150 entry, enter 3x, 2-steer, handicapped, 4.5 cap — trophy buckles on closing day); the 8.5 Legends 60+ / Cowgirls Over 40 (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $150 entry, enter 3x, 3-steer, handicapped, 4.5

cap, books close 10:00 AM — trophy buckles every week); the 9.5 Megabucks 50+ / Cowgirls Over 40 (pick or draw, $100 per roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, handicapped, 5.5 cap, 70% payback — trophy buckles on closing day); and the 10.5 High Roller 21+ presented by Classic (pick or draw, $150 per roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, 6.5 cap, 80% payback — books won’t close before 1:00 PM). 2026 Global Handicap Card required. Cash or credit cards only, ATM on-site. 406.396.8199 | dynamitearena. com

Dynamite Season

Closer

04/18/2026 - 04/19/2026

Dynamite Arena, Cave Creek, AZ

Divisions: 8.5 2-Steer, 9.5 Legends 40+, 10.5 Dyn-O-Mite, 11.5 Handicapped, 13.5 Slide Dynamite Arena in Cave Creek, Arizona hosts the Dynamite Season Closer on April 18 & 19, 2026 — everyone welcome! Same format and prizes both days. Entries close at 9:00 AM with the first roping at 9:30 AM. Five ropings are offered: the 8.5 2-Steer (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $160 entry, enter

3x, 4.5 cap, handicapped, 2-steer — trophy buckles to 1st); the 9.5 Legends 40+ / Cowgirls Over 30 (pick or draw, $120 per roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, handicapped, 5.5 cap, 70% payback — trophy buckles to 1st); the 10.5 Dyn-O-Mite (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $160 entry, enter 3x, 4-steer, handicapped, no caps — trophy saddles to 1st); the 11.5 Handicapped (pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, $160 entry, enter 3x, 4-steer — trophy buckles to 1st); and the 13.5 Slide presented by Classic (pick or draw, $120 entry, enter 4x, 4-steer, handicap up & down 1.5 sec per number with max 6 sec added or subtracted, 70% payback — books won’t close before 2:00 PM). 2026 Global Handicap Card required. Cash or credit cards accepted, ATM on-site. 406.396.8199 | dynamitearena.com

WSTR 2026 QualifierShow Low

04/24/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: Open WSTR, #15.5 WSTR, #14.5 WSTR, #13.5 WSTR, #12.5 WSTR, #11.5 Saddle Roping

The WSTR 2026 Qualifier comes to Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Friday, April 24, 2026, presented by Ariat and Priefert. Books open at 8:00 AM, rope at 9:00 AM. Six ropings on Friday: Open WSTR ($200/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, no age limit, 4-head, must be at least 7HD/8HL to draw in, draw-in fee extra $40/ roper, 80% payback); #15.5 WSTR ($150/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, no age or # cap, must be at least 6HD/7HL to draw in, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #14.5 WSTR ($150/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, no age or # cap, must be at least 5HD/7HL to draw in, draw-in fee extra $40/ roper, 75% payback); #13.5 WSTR ($150/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, no age or # cap, must be at least 5HD/6HL to draw in, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #12.5 WSTR ($150/ roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, no # cap, must be 21, must be at least 4HD/5HL to draw in, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #11.5 Saddle Roping ($150/roper, pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, enter 2x, 3-steer, no age limit, no # cap, handicapped — 2/3 cash & prizes, saddles to 1st). Must be 21 or turn 21 anytime in the calendar year to

participate in WS qualifiers (except #15.5, #14.5, #13.5). WSTR membership required. Cash or credit cards, no checks. 480-540-8405 | wstroping.com

WSTR 2026 QualifierShow Low

04/25/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ Divisions: #11.5 WSTR 7.5 Heeler Cap, #10.5 WSTR 6.5 Heeler Cap, #9.5 WSTR 5.5 Heeler Cap, #9.5 Saddle Roping 5.5 Heeler Cap Day 2 of the WSTR 2026 Qualifier at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Books open at 8:00 AM, rope at 9:00 AM. Four ropings: #11.5 WSTR 7.5 Heeler Cap ($150/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, must be 21, must be at least 4HD/5HL to draw in, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #10.5 WSTR 6.5 Heeler Cap ($150/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, must be 21, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #9.5 WSTR 5.5 Heeler Cap ($150/ roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, must be 21, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #9.5 Saddle Roping 5.5 Heeler Cap ($150/roper, pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, enter 2x, 3-steer, no age limit, handicapped — 2/3 cash & prizes, saddles to 1st). WSTR membership required. Cash or credit cards, no checks. 480-540-8405 | wstroping.com

WSTR 2026 QualifierShow Low

04/26/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #8.5 WSTR 4.5 Cap

Both Ends, #7.5 WSTR 4 Cap

Both Ends, #8.5 Buckle Roping 4.5 Cap Both Ends

Day 3 of the WSTR 2026 Qualifier at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Books open at 8:00 AM, rope at 9:00 AM. Three ropings: #8.5 WSTR 4.5 Cap Both Ends ($150/roper, enter 3x, pick or draw, must be 21, 75% payback); #7.5 WSTR 4 Cap Both Ends ($150/ roper, pick or draw, 3-steer, must be 21, 75% payback); #8.5 Buckle Roping 4.5 Cap Both Ends ($150/ roper, pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, enter 2x, 3-steer, no age limit, handicapped — 2/3 cash & prizes). WSTR membership required. Cash or credit cards, no checks. 480-540-8405 | wstroping.com

Roper Nation Tuesday Ropings 04/28/2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: 11.5 Over 40 & All Ladies, #9.5 Over 40 & All Ladies, #8.5 Over 40 & All Ladies Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Tuesday Ropings on April 28, 2026. Books close at 9:15 AM, rope at 9:30 AM. Three ropings, open to ropers over 40 and all ladies: 11.5 (pick or draw, $150/ roper, enter 3x, 4-steer, 80% payback, handicapped, capped at 7+ heeler); #9.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 5+ heeler); #8.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 4+). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Roper Nation Thursday Morning Ropings

04/30/2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ

Divisions: #8.5 Everyone Over 60, #7.5 Everyone Over 60, #6.5 Everyone Over 60

Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Thursday Morning Ropings on April 30, 2026, open to everyone over 60. Books close at 9:15 AM, rope at 9:30 AM. Three ropings: #8.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 4+); #7.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/ roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, 3-steer, handicapped, capped at 4.5); #6.5 (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 3+). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Roper Nation Thursday Night Ropings

04/30/2026

Roper Nation, Wickenburg, AZ Divisions: #10.5 All Ages, #13.5 Slide

Roper Nation in Wickenburg, Arizona hosts Thursday Night Ropings on April 30, 2026. Books close at 6:15 PM, rope at 6:30 PM. Two ropings: #10.5 All Ages (pick 1 draw 1, $140/roper, enter 4x or draw up to 8 for $70/run, handicapped, capped at 6+ heeler); #13.5 Slide (pick or draw, $100/ roper, enter 4x, 4-steer, max 4 seconds up or down, books will not close before 7:30 PM). NTR, USTRC, or WSTR membership required. Global Handicaps only. Cash only. 307-231-5756 | ropernation.com

Cinco de Mayo Trailer De Mayo

05/02/2026

Navajo County Fair Grounds, Holbrook, AZ Divisions: #11.5 Beast De Mayo, #9.5 Trailer De Mayo

The Roping Co. presents the Cinco de Mayo Trailer De Mayo at Navajo County Fair Grounds in Holbrook, Arizona on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Books close at 9:00 AM. Two ropings: #11.5 Beast De Mayo (P1 D1 or D2, $120/man, enter 2x, no cap, 3-steer — 3 horse slant trailer to High Point); #9.5 Trailer De Mayo (P1 D1 or D2, $120/man, enter 4x, 5.5 cap, 3-steer — 3 horse slant trailer to High Point). Truck Roping Bonus: 1st & 2nd in #11.5 will receive a $1,000/TM voucher good toward entry into The Beast RAM Truck Roping in June. All ropings are 3-steer, handicapped, 2/3 cash and prize payback unless noted. High Point based on top 15 in average in each roping. Global Numbers, flag on heels. Trailer recipients responsible for TT&L. Cash or credit card (5% fee), no checks. 480-540-8405 | ropingco.com ngco.com

The Buckeye 5 Steer

5/2/26

Buckeye Equestrian and Events Center, Buckeye, AZ

Divisions: #13.5 w/11.5 Bonus Prize: $4,720+ 1st

Runs: 5 Steer Avg.. 85% payback. Handicapped -2 sec/#. Pick-Enter 1x per side. Progressive after 1. Calcutta online silent auction. RopingFinder.com $300 bonus for member winner. Pre-entry required by April 25 noon. Late entries +$20/side. Cash only day of roping. 623-377-8670

Cactus Ropes Season Opener

Linden Valley Arena 05/09/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #12.5 Slide, #11.5 $2K Guaranteed, #10.5 Legends 40+, #9.5 Saddle Roping Prize: $2000

The Roping Company presents the Cactus Ropes Season Opener at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Books close at 9:00 AM on the 1st roping. Four ropings offered: #12.5 Slide (P1D1 or draw 2, enter 2x, $120/roper, 4-steer, handicapped, no cap, 4.5 sec +/- max, 70% pay-

back — Cactus Ropes to 1st in average); #11.5 $2K Guaranteed (P1D1 or draw 2, enter 3x, $120/ roper, 3-steer, handicapped, 6.5 cap — $2,000 guaranteed to 1st in average, Cactus Ropes to 1st in average); #10.5 Legends 40+ / Women of Any Age (P1D1 or draw 2, enter 2x, $120/roper, 3-steer, handicapped, 6.5 cap); #9.5 Saddle Roping (P1D1 or draw 2, enter 3x, $120/roper, 3-steer, handicapped, 5.5 cap — saddles + cash to 1st, Cactus Ropes + cash to 2nd–5th). All ropings are 3-steer, handicapped, 2/3 cash and prize payback unless noted. High Point based on top 15 in average in each roping. WSTR or USTR Numbers. Flag on heels. Credit card with 5% service fee. 480-540-8405 | ropingco.com

Crown B Ranch 3rd Annual Masters Team Roping

5/15/26 - 5/16/26

Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, AZ Prize: 80% payback, trophy letterman jackets, saddles to average winners Crown B Ranch 3rd Annual Masters Team Roping, May 15–16, 2026 at Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson, AZ. Produced by Savantos Land & Cattle and Crown B Ranch LLC. FRIDAY WARM-UP (books open 6 PM, rope 7 PM): #13.5 Hailstorm Roofing Slide – pick or draw $100, enter 4x, 4-steer average, 80% payback, trophy letterman jackets. Junior 12 & Under Tractor Supply Dummy Roping 6 PM. SATURDAY (books open 8 AM, rope 9 AM): #11.5 Saddle Roping – P1/D1 or Draw 2 $150, enter 3x, 4-steer average, no cap, buckles to average winners 2nd–4th. #9.5 Saddle Roping – P1/D1 or Draw 2 $150, enter 3x, 3-steer average, no cap. All ropings 2/3 cash prize payback unless otherwise noted. Must have current USTRC, WS, or NTR card. 520-405-9588 | crownbranchllc. com

7.5 Big Money 2026

05/16/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #8.5 40+ Roping, #6.5 Buckle Mania, #7.5 Big Money Prize: $10000

The Roping Company presents the 7.5 Big Money 2026 at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

Books close at 9:00 AM. Three ropings with 26 trophy buckles and $10,000 cash guaranteed to the High Point Roper of the 7.5. The #8.5 40+ Roping (P1D1 or D2, $120/roper, enter 2x, 4.5 cap, 3-steer — open to ropers 40+ or women of any age; buckles to 1st–3rd); the #6.5 Buckle Mania (P1D1, $120/roper, enter 2x, 3.5 cap, handicapped, 2-steer — buckles to 1st–3rd); and the #7.5 Big Money (P1D1 or D2, $120/ roper, enter 4x, 4.5 cap, 3-steer — $10,000 cash guaranteed to High Point Roper, 14 trophy buckles to 1st–7th, books close at 10:30, points awarded to 1st–15th in the average). Credit card with 5% service fee. Global Numbers, flipon heels. All ropings are 3-steer, handicapped. 2/3 cash and prize payback unless noted. 480-540-8405 | ropingco.com

WSTR 2026 Qualifier

Show Low

05/22/2026 - 05/25/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ Prize: $20,000 Guaranteed + Saddles

4-day WSTR Qualifier May 2225. Fri: Open WSTR #15.5 #14.5 #13.5 #12.5 WSTR + #11.5 Saddle Roping. Sat: #11.5 #10.5 #9.5 WSTR + #8.5 Saddle Roping. Sun: #8.5 #7.5 #6.5 WSTR Saddle Ropings. Mon: #9.5 $20000 Guaranteed to High Point Roper P1D1 or D2 $150/roper Enter 4X 4-Steer Handicapped capped #5.5 both ends. Must be 21+ for WS qualifiers except Open #15.5 #14.5 #13.5. $40 non-refundable draw-in fee. WSTR membership & Key Cards required. Cash or credit cards no checks. RV & stalls at lindenvalleyarena.com. 480-540-8405 | wstroping.com

WSTR 2026 Qualifier Show

Low 05/23/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #11.5 WSTR 7.5 Heeler Cap, #10.5 WSTR 6.5 Heeler Cap, #9.5 WSTR 5.5 Heeler Cap, #8.5 Saddle Roping 6.5 Heeler Cap

Day 2 of the WSTR 2026 Qualifier at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Books open at 8:00 AM, rope at 9:00 AM. Four ropings: #11.5 WSTR 7.5 Heeler Cap ($150/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, must be 21, must be at least 4HD/5HL to draw in, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #10.5 WSTR 6.5 Heeler Cap ($300/roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, must be 21, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 80% payback); #9.5 WSTR 5.5 Heeler Cap ($150/ roper, enter 2x, pick or draw, must be 21, draw-in fee extra $40/roper, 75% payback); #8.5 Saddle Roping 6.5 Heeler Cap ($150/roper, pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, enter 2x, 3-steer, no age limit, handicap — 2/3 cash & prizes, saddles to 1st). WSTR membership required. Cash or credit cards, no checks. 480-540-8405 | wstroping.com

WSTR 2026 Qualifier Show Low 05/24/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #8.5 WSTR 4.5 Cap Both Ends, #7.5 WSTR 4 Cap Both Ends, #11.5 Saddle Roping 4.5 Cap Both Ends Day 3 of the WSTR 2026 Qualifier at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Sunday, May 24, 2026. Books open at 8:00 AM, rope at 9:00 AM. Three ropings: #8.5 WSTR 4.5 Cap Both Ends ($150/roper, enter 3x, pick or draw, must be 21, 75% payback); #7.5 WSTR 4 Cap Both Ends ($150/ roper, pick or draw, 3-steer, must be 21, 75% payback); #11.5 Saddle Roping 4.5 Cap Both Ends ($150/roper, pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, enter 2x, 3-steer, no age limit, no # cap — 2/3 cash & prizes, saddles to 1st). WSTR membership required. Cash or credit cards, no checks. 480-540-8405 | wstroping.com

WSTR 2026 Qualifier

Show Low

05/25/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #9.5 $20000 Guaran-

teed Hi Point Roper Prize: $20000

The final day of the WSTR 2026 Qualifier at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Monday, May 25, 2026. Books open at 8:00 AM, rope at 9:00 AM. One featured roping: #9.5 with $20,000 guaranteed to the Hi Point Roper ($150/roper, pick 1 draw 1 or draw 2, enter 4x, 4-steer, no age limit, handicapped, capped at 5.5 both ends, 2/3 cash & prizes). WSTR and USTRC membership with current Key Card required. RV and stall reservations at lindenvalleyarena.com. Cash or credit cards, no checks. 480-540-8405 | wstroping.com

The Beast 2026 Truck Roping

06/12/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #11.5 Big $3000, #9.5 Saddle, #7.5 2-Steer Buckle Prize: $3000

The Beast 2026 Truck Roping kicks off Friday, June 12, 2026 at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona. Books close at 9:00 AM. Three ropings on Friday: #11.5 Big $3000 (P1D1 or D2, $150 entry, enter 2x, 4-steer, 7 cap — $3,000 guaranteed to 1st); #9.5 Saddle (P1D1 or D2, $120 entry, enter 2x, 3-steer, 5.5 cap — saddles to 1st); #7.5 2-Steer Buckle (P1D2, $120 entry, enter 2x, 4.5 cap — buckles to 1st–4th). Global Numbers, flipon heels, plants to 20 in each roping. Truck recipients responsible for TT&L. If the truck roping has over 1,000 teams, some teams and the short round may run Sunday morning — no draw outs. Cash or credit card (3% fee), no checks. 480-540-8405 ropingco. com

The Beast 2026 Truck Roping

06/13/2026

Linden Valley Arena, Show Low, AZ

Divisions: #10.5 Muley Roping, #11.5 Beast Truck Roping Day 2 of The Beast 2026 Truck Roping at Linden Valley Arena in Show Low, Arizona on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Two ropings: #10.5 Muley Roping (pick, $100/roper, enter 2x, 7 cap, 3-steer — muleys will be roped; books close 8:45 AM, rope at 9:00 AM); #11.5 Beast Truck Roping (P1D1 or D2, $200 entry, enter 4x, 7 cap, 4-steer, handicapped — New RAM 3500 to High Point Roper; entries close at 9:30 AM). 2/3 cash and prize payback unless noted.com

US Equestrian and Ariat International Launch New Team Collection with Renewed Partnership

Lexington, Ky. – US Equestrian is pleased to continue our longstanding partnership with Ariat International, as the Official Equestrian Apparel of US Equestrian and the US Equestrian Teams and Official Equestrian Performance Footwear of

US Equestrian. As part of the renewed commitment, Ariat® released the new US Equestrian Team Collection to be worn by athletes and support staff as they represent the United States internationally across the FEI disciplines.

Ariat has been a trusted

partner of US Equestrian for more than a decade. A global leader in equestrian performance clothing and footwear, Ariat dedicates itself to the equestrian and outdoor lifestyle through the production, design, and development of high-quality and innovative competition and training apparel and footwear.

The new Ariat Team Collection made its debut in February of 2026 at the FEI Jumping Nations Cup Wellington CSIO4*, where team athletes, grooms, and support staff represented the United States in style with the new pieces.

The new collection includes the following:

Ariat® USEF Polo: Designed for sun-drenched days in and out of the saddle, the polo adapts to heat, keeps athletes feeling fresh, and delivers superior sun protection in a sleek, form-flattering fit.

Features ClimateTek™ technology for temperatureresponsive cooling, FreshTek™ odor control for all-day freshness, and Sun Protection Fabric™ to help block harmful UV rays during long hours outdoors.

Ariat® USEF Long Sleeve Quarter-Zip: Redefining everyday performance, the long sleeve quarter-zip blends responsive climate control, superior UPF protection, and sculpting stretch into a sleek, polished fit.

Ariat® USEF Waterproof Jacket: Expertly engineered for unpredictable weather, this waterproof jacket pairs advanced waterproof protection with a streamlined, saddle-

Fireworks in Little Rock: Kimzey dominates as a moment beyond the arena shows PBR’s true heart

By James Phillips PBR

Sage Kimzey claims the Little Rock title behind a dominant championshipround ride aboard Lights Out as Austin Richardson’s 93.30-point masterpiece headlines a weekend packed with momentum swings and a powerful moment beyond the dirt.

In Arkansas, the rallying cry most often heard echoing through packed arenas is “Woo Pig Sooie!” as Razorback fans proudly call the Hogs. But on March 6–7, the energy inside Simmons Bank Arena will shift from college sports tradition to one of the most electrifying spectacles in professional sports as the PBR Unleash The Beast tour returns to Little Rock for Stop No. 12 of the 2026 season.

Friday night, March 6, 2026, inside Simmons Bank Arena delivered exactly what fans had come to expect when the PBR Unleash The Beast rolled into the Natural State—power, unpredictability, and a whole lot of fireworks.

For two nights in Little Rock, the world’s best bull riders will attempt to conquer the rankest bovine athletes in the sport, knowing that every eight-second ride could dramatically shift the standings as the season continues to build toward championship contention. Inside Simmons Bank Arena, fans can expect the intensity, drama, and raw power that define the Unleash The Beast tour every time the chute gate cracks open.

ABBI Classic Night set the tone early as the sport’s top young bucking bulls announced themselves in emphatic fashion while riders battled through a rugged slate of matchups. When the dust settled, 13 qualified rides lit up the scoreboard, yet none of the contenders sitting near the very top of the world standings managed to fully capitalize on the opportunity.

Still, the night was far from quiet.

Hard landings, second chances, and flashes of brilliance shaped the opening chapter of the weekend. From riders digging deep after violent wrecks to momentum swings that reshaped the night’s storyline, Friday night once again proved why every single out matters on the Unleash The Beast.

Meet the AQHA Hall of Fame Class of 2026

Six individuals and horses whose contributions have shaped the American Quarter Horse industry will be inducted into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame as the Class of 2026.

Induction into the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed by the American Quarter Horse Foundation. In 2026, six individuals and horses whose influence has helped shape the American Quarter Horse industry will join the prestigious list of inductees. The Class of 2026 will be honored during the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame Induction & Reunion Celebration September 11-12, 2026, in Amarillo, Texas. More information is available on the event site.

The Class of 2026 includes three AQHA members and three horses: AQHA Professional Horseman

Bobby Lewis, AQHA’s first international member Cesar Pedrero, AQHA Past President Floyd E. “Butch” Wise, Dollie Pine, WR This Cats Smart and Runaway Wave.

Bobby Lewis

where the futurities and derbies grow in their continued success. Cesar was the owner of two Mexican champion racehorses, Stage Door Smash in 1988 and Passem Glass in 1992. Cesar is also in two halls of fame in Mexico for his work in the equine industry.

Butch Wise

During his career, AQHA Professional Horseman Bobby Lewis of Overbrook, Oklahoma, has won 38 AQHA world championships on 32 horses, as well as 30,794.5 AQHA points across 18 events. Bobby showed Genuine Redbud to the 1995 AQHA Superhorse title at the AQHA World Championship Show and was part of the team that showed Reprise Bar to the 1984 Superhorse title.

Bobby was also the breeder of Real Gun, the 2004 AQHA Superhorse. Bobby, who is an AQHA 40-year cumulative breeder, has total earnings from breeding American Quarter Horses exceeding $3 million. He was inducted into the National Cutting Horse Hall of Fame in 2006.

Cesar Pedrero

An AQHA member since 1968, Cesar Pedrero of Mexico was the first international member of AQHA and co-founded the Mexican Quarter Horse association in 1968. A 40-year cumulative American Quarter Horse breeder, Cesar also produced the first American Quarter Horse halter show in Mexico in 1970. Along with that, he introduced Quarter Horse racing to Mexico in 1983,

AQHA Past President and bloodstock agent Floyd E. “Butch” Wise of El Reno, Oklahoma, has been a longtime director and has served on several AQHA committees, including the AQHA Stud Book and Registration Committee and Racing Council. Butch has earned more than $1 million on horses he has owned outright and in partnership.

He is also a past president of the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing Association and has been inducted into the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing and Remington Park halls of fame.

Dollie Pine

AQHA Champion Dollie Pine, who was by Poco Pine and out of Hobo Sue by Hobo, shares a lineage like no other. Her pedigree includes American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame members Traveler, Zantanon, Poco Bueno and King P-234.

The 1960 mare, who was bred by Hall of Fame member Paul Curtner and owned by Harold Mills, produced 14 foals that earned four open AQHA Champion titles, five open performance Registers of Merit and three open Superiors. Her progeny includes the great Zippo Pine Bar. Her grandprogeny includes Zips Chocolate Chip and Zippos Mr Goodbar. She also has great-grandson A Good Machine; and great-great-grandson Harley D Zip.

WR This Cats Smart

WR This Cats Smart, who earned more than $200,000 in National Cutting Horse Association competition, has sired 1,574 registered American Quarter Horses as of the end of February 2026, with collective earnings of more than $19.5 million in cutting, reining, working cow horse, roping, ranch horse and timed-event competition. Bred by Wiens Ranch

Arizona’s Largest & Most Authentic Kentucky Derby Party

Saturday, May 2nd at Turf Paradise

Turf Paradise Venue Under New Management, Sister Event of Bentley

Scottsdale Polo Championships Adds New Elements Ahead of 10th Anniversary

(PHOENIX) -- It’s the only Derby party in Arizona that captures the excitement and style of the Kentucky Derby just yards away from live horse racing. For tickets or tables to The Stella Artois Derby DayClub set for Saturday, May 2 at Turf Paradise, visit ThePoloParty.com.

With Turf Paradise under new management and amid notable venue enhancements and upgrades, Arizona’s favorite Kentucky Derby party returns for the 152nd edition of the “Run for the Roses.”

Watch and wager on the Kentucky Derby simulcast plus a full card of live local horse racing at The Stella Artois Derby DayClub May 2 at Turf Paradise. It’s the best of both worlds. Scottsdale Polo Party excitement with some 1,600 people set against the

Company Inc. of Sedalia, Colorado, WR This Cats Smart was owned by the AQHA Best Remuda Award-winning Wagonhound Land & Livestock of Douglas, Wyoming, which is also an AQHA Ranching Heritage Breeder. This stallion has made a significant impact on the ranch’s remuda and performance-horse programs nationwide.

Runaway Wave

The 2005 AQHA Broodmare of the Year, Runaway Wave became an AQHA Dam of Distinction in 2007. By Runaway Winner, a race sire of earners of over $13 million, and out of the Thoroughbred mare In The Curl, Runaway Wave earned nearly $80,000 on the track. But as her breeding awards illustrate, her bigger success has been in producing 46 American Quarter Horse foals that have won 88 races, earned more than $4 million and one AQHA racing world champion title.

In 2015, she became the all-time AQHA Leading Broodmare by Progeny Earnings, a title she held through 2021. She is currently second on that list. Her progeny includes champions Ocean Runaway and Wave Carver, who each have earnings of more than $1 million. She was bred by Allison and Daniel Lucas of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and is owned by Daniel and Michelle Lucas of Portland, Tennessee.

backdrop of an iconic racetrack. Enjoy mint juleps and a great selection of food and drink at one of two exciting trackside options.

Brand new this year -- there will be a separate ticketed experience offering a Champagne and Bourbon tasting. More details on the tastings to be announced in the coming weeks.

“I’ve been to Derby parties in other cities, and nothing compares,” said returning Attendee Ivan Lugo. “You’re dressed up with a mint julep in hand, and then the horses come thundering past you just a few yards away. It feels like you’re part of the race, rather than just watching it on TV.”

The Sanderson Lincoln Black Label Lounge and The Stella Artois Jazz Pavilion offer reserved tables and seating as well as general admission seating.

The Sanderson Lincoln Black Label Lounge features a Scottsdale Polo Party-style tent, some 85 yards long, and new onsite betting machines and tellers, which sit right next to the track on the grass at Turf Paradise. There are live DJs, live bands and plenty of TV screens allowing fans to watch the Kentucky Derby simulcast as well as a full card of horse racing just yards away at Turf Paradise.

Bars inside the tent offer mint juleps, champagne, cocktails and close proximity to food trucks for additional refreshments. Table options include a complimentary bottle of Chandon champagne, with table pricing ranging from $450 to $1,250. Black Label Row 2 single reserved seats are $150, while Row 3 single reserved seats are $135 and Row 4, $115.

The Stella Artois Jazz Pavilion is an open-air covered pavilion with great views of the races at Turf Paradise and easy access to on-site betting. It has been rebuilt since the 2025 event and features TV screens, a refurbished pavilion, a first-time jazz band, a bar for mint juleps, champagne and cocktails and close proximity to food trucks for additional refreshments. Table options also include a complimentary bucket of Stella Artois, with pricing for tables ranging from $325 to $450.

“This is one of those rare events where everyone really commits to the theme,” said Patrick Heigl, GM of Sanderson Lincoln. “The suits, the hats – it’s a whole experience, and our group ended up staying a lot longer than we planned because there was so much to do beyond the race itself.”

Individual tickets are also available, with General Admission tickets priced at $50 in advance and $55 at the gate. For tickets or tables, visit ThePoloParty.com.

In addition to an exciting day of horse racing, guests can enjoy an impressive display of horsepower featuring several of Sanderson Lincoln’s top luxury vehicles for 2026, plus onsite shopping opportunities.

PRCA, WPRA WORLD CHAMPIONS MAKE HISTORIC VISIT TO WHITE HOUSE

The 2025 PRCA and WPRA World Champions made a historic trip to the nation’s capital Friday to meet with President Donald Trump.

The event was a way to recognize the world champions for their accomplishment during last December’s National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas and the National Finals Breakaway Roping in Fort Worth, Texas. The champions were introduced to the media outside

Each champion was introduced by President Trump. He was introduced to those in attendance: All-Around and Bull Riding World Champion Stetson Wright; Bareback Riding World Champion Rocker Steiner; Steer Wrestling World Champion Tucker Allen; Team Roping World Champion Header Andrew Ward; Team Roping World Champion Heeler Jake Long; Saddle Bronc Riding World Champion Statler Wright; Tie-Down Roping World Champion Riley Webb; Steer Roping World Champion Cole Patterson; Barrel Racing World Champion Kassie Mowry; Breakaway Roping World Champion Taylor Munsell; and Miss Rodeo America Olivia Favero.

the White House before entering. There, they posed for photos with wall art of President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance before being escorted into a room where the 47th President greeted them.

Each world champion had the opportunity to visit the world famous Oval Office, an opportunity most Americans will never have in their lifetime. That was recognized by the cowboys and cowgirls, as the theme of the visit quickly became “honor” for the opportunity.

“It’s an honor to be here,” Patterson said. “I think it’s huge for the sport of rodeo. We can lift this thing up and take it places it’s never been before. Rodeo is growing faster than any other sport, I feel like. This will do nothing but accelerate that.”

“It’s such an honor. I’m kind of just mind blown and trying to take it all in,” Webb added. “It’s so cool that all of us get to come here and spend time with everybody and get to see part of our world that we don’t get to see every day. We get to tell everybody (here) about our lives and our world, agriculture and the sport of rodeo that we get to do and love.”

Additional coverage can be found in the April edition of the PRORODEO Sports News.

TRACTOR SUPPLY STEPS ONTO RODEO’S BIGGEST STAGE AS PRESENTING SPONSOR OF THE WRANGLER NATIONAL FINALS

Multi-year sponsorship with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) is part of retailer’s ongoing commitment to supporting western sports at the local, regional and national level.

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., MARCH 12, 2026 –Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ: TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States (the “Company”), announced today it is an Official Partner of the 2026 National Finals Rodeo (NFR), known officially as the “Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Tractor Supply Company.” The sponsorship of one of rodeo’s most prestigious events solidifies Tractor Supply as a top supporter of western sports nationally, regionally and locally.

Through the official partnership, Tractor Supply will connect with rodeo fans through media, in-arena presence and on-site activations surrounding NFR, while maintaining a year-round presence at PRCA rodeos nationwide. Additionally, PRCA rodeo athletes will make several scheduled appearances at Tractor Supply store locations throughout the year.

“Rodeo runs deep in many of the communities Tractor Supply calls home,” said Kimberley Gardiner, Chief Marketing Officer at Tractor Supply. “Partnering with the PRCA and serving as presenting sponsor of the National Finals Rodeo, professional rodeo’s biggest moment of the year, is a powerful way for us to celebrate the grit, determination and community spirit that define Life Out Here.”

The Pinnacle of PRORODEO

NFR stands as the championship event of PRORODEO and the sport’s premier event. The nation’s top 15 PRCA and WPRA earners of the season compete across every rodeo discipline during the 10-day event in Las Vegas. NFR consistently draws more than 170,000 fans each year, with a record-breaking 175,846 in attendance in 2025.

The 2026 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo presented by Tractor Supply Company will take place Dec. 3-12 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

“PRORODEO is rooted in more than 700 communities nationwide,” said Paul Woody, Chief Marketing Officer of PRCA. “Partnering with Tractor Supply allows us to support those communities in a truly authentic way. We’re thrilled to have their meaningful support of the NFR and to help share the story of the American cowboy throughout the year.”

Elite Partnerships

Tractor Supply has long supported rodeo as an extension of its ongoing involvement in western sports, which are a significant part of the rural lifestyle it serves. To amplify its participation, in 2025, the Company became an Official National Partner of PRCA. In early 2026, Tractor Supply announced a partnership with legendary rodeo stock contractor and retired professional rodeo

cowboy Cord McCoy to sponsor McCoy Rodeo events, including the Oklahoma City ProRodeo, Bullnanza, the WRCA Ranch Rodeo and the Ada ProRodeo.

“As someone who has spent a lifetime in rodeo, I know how important it is to have partners who truly understand our way of life. Tractor Supply isn’t just a sponsor — it’s a place I rely on for the supplies that keep my animals healthy and my operation running strong,” said Cord McCoy. “Their commitment to rodeo shows they’re invested in the people and communities that make this sport what it is, and that kind of support means everything to those of us who live it every day.”

Building on its commitment to engaging rodeo fans nationwide, Tractor Supply also collaborated with Teton Ridge and The Cowboy Channel in 2025 to activate the Rodeo Live stage at several major rodeo events across the country. The stage featured live programming, athlete interviews and fan-focused entertainment that connected in-arena audiences with viewers watching across The Cowboy Channel’s national broadcast platform. The partnership culminated at the fan experience outside the Thomas & Mack Center during the National Finals Rodeo.

Tractor Supply has also supported some of the sport’s most iconic events, including Cheyenne Frontier Days, and served as the presenting sponsor for multi-platinum selling and CMA Awardwinning country music artist Cody Johnson’s COJO Championship Event in 2025. The Company is a year-round partner of the South Point Arena & Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, home to many of the country’s premier equestrian and western sports events.

For the Love of Life Out Here

For more than 30 years, Tractor Supply has supported the local and regional rodeos and riding competitions that are fundamental to Life Out Here, ensuring that amateurs across the country have opportunities to ride, rope and wrestle in the arena. Its customers and Team Members are not only dedicated rodeo fans, but competitors as well.

In 2025, the Company introduced a Red Rider program to identify and support Team Members who compete in barrel racing, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc and more. The Red Rider program recognizes Tractor Supply Team Members who actively compete in rodeo and western sports while serving as ambassadors for the Company and its Life Out Here lifestyle, representing the brand in arenas and communities across the country. The program also helps connect rodeo competitors across the Tractor Supply team, creating a community where Team Members can celebrate their shared passion for the sport and support one another in and out of the arena.

“Working at Tractor Supply, I see firsthand how much the brand supports the rural lifestyle and the western community,” said Xaviar Evans, a Team Member in Brookshire.

By Jessica Hein APHA

Lifelong horseman Steve Meadows of Staunton, Virginia, is being honored June 25, 2026, as the 2026 Markel/APHA Professional Horseman of the Year.

A fourth-generation horseman, Steve has been involved the horse industry since childhood. Steve and his wife, Becky, own Meadows Quarter Horses; daughter Noel helps Steve train and show horses. After winning multiple world championships in Western pleasure, Steve shifted his focus to ranch events in 2014. He has since enjoyed bountiful success and more than 30 world championships in ranch events with APHA, American Quarter

Steve Meadows wins 2026 Markel APHA

Professional Horseman of the Year

to be talking about horses. I absolutely adore APHA, and we love coming to the World Show,” Steve said. “This is a life-changer for me. I’m so honored and humbled to be recognized by APHA and my fellow Pro Horsemen. It’s a milestone in my life that I’ll always remember.”

Celebrate

First awarded in 2017, the Markel/APHA Professional

Horseman of the Year award honors a hardworking professional who exemplifies the Professional Horsemen’s code of ethics and serves as a positive ambassador of Paint Horses and the overall equine industry. APHA Director of Judges & Professional Horsemen Sandy Jirkovsky appreciates Steve’s positive impact on APHA and the greater horse industry.

“Steve has always been the kind of horseman who lifts others up,” Sandy said. “Whether we’re in the warm-up pen or at a judges’ table, he brings professionalism, calm leadership, and a genuine passion for doing things the right way. I appreciate his integrity, his horsemanship, and his willingness to help anyone—no matter their experience level. He sets a standard we all strive to meet. This award couldn’t be more well-deserved.”

Steve and other milestone award winners are being honored June 25 at the APHA Hall of Fame & Awards Ceremony. It takes place at Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas, in conjunction with the 2025 APHA World Championship Show. Other year-end award winners honored at the event include APHA’s newest Hall of Fame class, Distinguished Service Award winner, High-Point Open Exhibitor, Judge Emeritus recipients, Don Manuello Ring Steward Award winner and more.

www.HORSECALENDAR.AI

ROCKER STEINER RIDES DISCO PARTY TO SECOND STRAIGHT RODEOHOUSTON TITLE

Reigning PRCA Bareback Riding World Champion Rocker Steiner had plenty of reasons to celebrate his second-straight victory at RodeoHouston, but he also acknowledged his counterpart while doing so.

“That horse and I just go together,” said Steiner, who rode Calgary Stampede’s Disco Party for 90.5 points to win the Shootout Round. “That was the third time getting on it.”

Their matching has been magical every time. The first came last July during the championship round of the Ponoka (Alberta) Stampede, and Steiner was marked 91.25 points. The rematch occurred during the Round 10 of the National Finals Rodeo in December, worth 90.5 points and good enough for second in the round and exclamation point for his 2025 world championship.

fans and win big money.”

Disco Party has made a habit of that. Tilden Hooper won the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo on the powerful bay paint, distinguishable by his bald face. Wacey Shalla just won the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo three weeks ago with a 91-point ride. In his last four trips, Disco Party has accounted for four straight rides of 90 points or better.

To the victor goes the spoils, and Steiner leaves the Bayou City with a boatload of cash and confidence. He’ll adjust his schedule to maintain his health while maintaining a healthy spot in the PRCA | Bill Fick Ford World Standings.

“This means I don’t have to rodeo as hard,” said Steiner, who had earned a little more than $25,000 heading into championship weekend in Houston. “I haven’t had the greatest winter ever, but it was better than last year.

“Houston is just a great rodeo.”

It’s also one with a great Texas history, one that stands strong within his family.

“My grandparents, way back when, got engaged in the Astrodome,” Steiner said. “I came here my first year, won second. I was 18 years old, so that was a huge thing for me. I came back a couple years later, won it, then came back and won it again.”

The third generation of Texas world champions, it’s only fitting that he’s a two-time titlist at NRG Stadium.

$10.4 million win positions Scottsdale to take first step to transform WestWorld drainage infrastructure

The investment marks a major first step forward in delivering longneeded improvements that will enhance WestWorld’s safety, operations, and economic performance, Mayor Borowsky points out.

The Water Infrastructure Financing Authority of Arizona

(WIFA) has approved a $10,436,918 low-cost loan, including $1 million in principal forgiveness, to support major drainage improvements at WestWorld of Scottsdale — a key priority of Mayor Lisa Borowsky’s administration.

The funding will support new infrastructure stretching from the 94th Street and Bahia Drive intersection and

connecting to the Reata Wash channel, significantly improving stormwater management and year-round site resilience at the keynote event facility.

The investment marks a major first step forward in delivering long-needed improvements that will enhance WestWorld’s safety, operations, and economic performance, Mayor Borowsky points out.

“I appreciate the input from all of our WestWorld stakeholders, and the efforts of our city management team collectively pushing these much-needed planned improvements forward,” Mayor Borowsky said. “WestWorld is one of Scottsdale’s most important assets — a year-round driver of tourism, economic activity, and international visibility.”

City Treasurer Sonia Andrews, whose team along with city engineering staff led Scottsdale’s financing application, explains the WIFA funding is a low-cost loan and the city was able to secure $1 million in forgivable principle, which translates to the city being required to only payback $9,436,918 of the $10,436,918 loan.

The city will finalize loan terms with WIFA in the coming weeks. Loan documents and formal acceptance are expected to be presented to the Scottsdale City Council for consideration in April or May.

“WestWorld is central to Scottsdale’s identity and its economy,” Mayor Borowsky said. “This project ensures it remains strong, resilient and competitive for decades to come.”

The University of California-Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory has successfully created an equine cloning assessment.

AQHA Announces an Update on Cloning

AQHA Fundigng Cloning Research

Dr. Rebecca Bellone, director of the University of California-Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL), shared the update with the AQHA Stud Book and Registration Committee during the 2026 AQHA Convention in Las Vegas.

Researchers at the

University of California-Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory have successfully validated a scientific approach to qualify or exclude parentage in situations where one of the reported parents may be a clone rather than the original horse.

Dr. Rebecca Bellone, director of the University of California-Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL), shared the update with

the AQHA Stud Book and Registration Committee during the 2026 AQHA Convention in Las Vegas. This research was funded by AQHA.

AQHA Registrar Tammy Canida noted that the issue has been a point of concern for nearly two decades, dating back to the cloning of the first American Quarter Horse. Under AQHA rules, clones – and their offspring or descendants – are not eligible for registration.

The topic gained additional attention following litigation brought by breeders seeking to require AQHA to register cloned horses. AQHA ultimately prevailed, reaffirming the Association’s long-standing governance structure as a member-driven organization in which the rules are established by the membership.

For many years, it was believed that mitochondrial DNA testing might offer the only solution. However, because mitochondrial DNA traces through the maternal line, it could not provide the comprehensive validation needed to definitively distinguish between the offspring of the original horse and its clone.

Today’s announcement is the culmination of a conversation that started several years ago between Jim Brinkman, 2026 incoming AQHA president and rancher from Ericson, Nebraska, and Dr. Bellone. They explored an important question: Could science provide a reliable way to determine whether a foal was produced by an original horse or by its clone?

AQHA will fund additional research and development for the VGL to help bring this testing capability into practical application. Preserving the integrity of the American Quarter Horse pedigree is central to AQHA’s mission, and this issue has remained and will continue to remain at the forefront of discussions for many years.

Cowtown Reining Classic purses exceed $100,000

By Jessica Hein APHA

Now in its fourth year, the 2026 Cowtown Reining Classic features $100,000 at the world’s richest NRHAapproved Paint reining and all-breed slide. The event takes place June 23–26 in Fort Worth, Texas, in conjunction with the 2026 APHA World Championship Show. The Cowtown Reining Classic is presented by Tenda Horse Products and FarmPaint.com. No qualifying required Also on tap for 2026 is the Two Ravens Foundation Veterans Slide, showcased as part of the Honoring Freedom Night on June 24. Heroes shine in this special event, where they’ll team up with a talented mount to show off their best sliding stops for honor and prizes. Two Ravens Foundation works to empower veterans and first responders for growth and resilience through unique horsemanship opportunities, and APHA is excited to partner in that quest.

Venue Details

Reining events return to the newly renovated Will Rogers Coliseum this year!

2026 Cowtown Reining Classic & APHA World Championship Reining

Presented by Tenda Horse Products & FarmPaint.com

Entries open in April and are accepted until 5 p.m. the day before classes take place, but get the best rates by preentering by May 15.

WACEY SCHALLA WINS CHANDLER XTREME BULLS

In a sport that can turn in a matter of seconds, Wacey Schalla didn’t over complicate it. That approach paid off as he claimed the championship title and a strong payday at the PRCA Xtreme Bulls in Chandler, Ariz., part of the Rank 45 Xtreme Bulls Series.

The 20-year-old cowboy from Arapaho, Okla., made the most of a second chance and capitalized when it counted. After accepting the re-ride option in the long round on Universal Pro Rodeo’s Gun Smoke, he reset and delivered, putting himself in position for the

short round.

“I had a good bull originally drawn, and it didn’t end up working out very good,” Schalla said. “I ended up getting a re-ride with them not standing very good in the chute, but on my re-ride bull, I was 87. I was just fortunate enough to draw a good one in the short round and seal the deal.”

Schalla’s ability to adjust proved critical, especially in a

season that hasn’t played fully in his favor as he sits unranked in the bull riding PRCA | Bill Fick Ford World Standings.

Instead of pressing, Schalla leaned into a more controlled mindset.

“This year’s been a tough year, so for me, and I just try not to overthink it,” Schalla said. “Tonight, with not getting on the bull I intended to get on, I think it helped me out in the long run. I’m just glad it worked out in my favor.”

After his 87-point ride on Universal Pro Rodeo’s B80, it earned him a spot in the short round and a chance to build on his season earnings. He then carried the momentum into the championship round with an 88-point trip on Universal Pro Rodeo’s Blue Silhouette, one of just two qualified rides in the short go. When the final scores were tallied, the win carried more than a buckle, it marked a turning point and gave Schalla a much-needed boost heading deeper into the season.

“I haven’t won much in the bull riding this year, so this is the one that kicked it off for me. Hopefully, we can just keep it rolling,” Schalla said.titles are everyone’s goal, and I’m here to achieve that,” Schalla said.

The fuel that generates the fire inside Riley Webb’s heart is competition.

It’s why he’s the reigning three-time World Champion Tie-Down Roper. It’s why he won his third RodeoHouston title in four years. The last of four cowboys to battle Saturday afternoon at NRG Stadium, Webb had already witnessed history. He then made some for himself.

RILEY WEBB SETS NEW ARENA

RECORD AT RODEOHOUSTON

Shane Hanchey, the 2013 world champion, raced through a 7.2-second run to beat the arena record of 7.4 set by Caleb Smidt. Two cowboys later, Kincade Henry stopped the clock in 7.3. Smidt’s mark had already been beaten twice, and Webb knew it would take a third to win the $65,000 grand prize for winning the Shootout.

“Kincade and Shane were in the Final Four last year as well,” said Webb, 22, of Denton, Texas. “Three out of four last year, kind

of the same scenario (but) not arena records. They pushed it, and they made me step it up and go faster. So, when they started breaking arena records, I just had to shorten my rope up.

“I knew I had to try the barrier on, try the start on and just go as fast as I can and throw caution to the wind and let it all hang out. There was no choice.”

Webb not only beat Hanchey’s new record, he smashed to pieces. When the calf was secured and his hands raised, the clock read 6.5 seconds, seven-tenths ahead of the runner-up.

“I try to rope for first every time I can, and then the first 7.2 came, then the 7.3 came,” said Webb, who pocketed $71,500. “I couldn’t split them. I had to go for first, so I was either going to go for first or fourth.”

Riding Rudy, the 13-year-old gelding that has carried him to all those gold buckles, Webb stood tall in the same building that hosts home football games for the Houston Texans.

“The fans in this Final Four round (are) unlike no other,” he said. “What is there, 70,000 people in the stands? They gave me a standing ovation after I roped. I’ve never had that happen, especially in a big crowd like that. That’s just a dream come true.”

Screwworm Preparedness with New Texas Sterile Fly Facility Contract

Washington, D.C., March 9, 2026 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) today announced a construction contract with Mortenson Construction to build a new sterile fly production facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg, Texas. This facility is a key component in Secretary Rollins’ sweeping 5-prong strategy (PDF, 1005 KB) to fight New World Screwworm (NWS),

as it will expand USDA’s domestic response capacity, bolstering protection for U.S. livestock, wildlife, and public health.

“The Army Corps of Engineers is an essential partner in bringing this facility to life and further highlights the Trump Administration’s government wide effort to fight the New World Screwworm threat in Mexico,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke

L. Rollins. “The Army Corps is the best in the business and their engineering expertise and proven track record in delivering complex projects will help ensure we can build a modern, resilient facility that protects American agriculture from invasive pests for decades to come. This first of its kind facility on U.S. soil will ensure we are not reliant on other countries for sterile flies.”

“ A sterile fly production

facility is a specialized biosecure complex where New World Screwworm flies are raised and sterilized using irradiation and then released into targeted areas. Female New World Screwworm flies only mate once in their lives, so if they mate with a sterile male, they lay unfertilized eggs that don’t hatch. This method, known as the Sterile Insect Technique, has been a cornerstone of proven screwworm eradication efforts for decades and is recognized worldwide as a highly effective, environmentally responsible approach to insect control.

Sterile Insect Technique, when paired with surveillance, animal movement restrictions, and education and outreach, is a proven and effective tool for controlling and eradicating New World Screwworm.

USDA currently produces about 100 million sterile flies per week at the COPEG facility in Panama and disperses them within and just north of affected areas in Mexico. In addition to the COPEG facility in Panama, USDA invested $21 million to support Mexico’s renovation of an existing fruit fly facility in Metapa.dwide.

THE REAL DEAL: CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHRIS LEDOUX’S 1976 PRCA WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

BY ALEX DODD, PRCA MEDIA REPORTER

Most country music singers never dare to get on the back of a bucking horse or bull, or throw a loop in an arena or on a ranch.

But Chris LeDoux was different.

He didn’t sing about dreams of loading up in a bucking chute. He sang about lived experiences on the ranch and in the rodeo arena.

This year, 2026, marks 50 years since LeDoux first etched his name in PRORODEO history. Before Garth Brooks put LeDoux in the cultural spotlight with the hit song “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)” in 1989, LeDoux made a name for himself in the arena while cutting his teeth as an independent country music singer-songwriter.

go-round with an 80-point ride and placed third in Round 4 with a 75-point ride.

LeDoux kept pushing with a second-place finish in Round 7 thanks to a 73-point trip.

Tough Draw

When Round 10 rolled around, LeDoux was third and Chick Elms sat atop the leaderboard. LeDoux needed a big trip to finish atop the world, but he drew a horse nobody wanted, a ferocious bucker from Steiner Rodeo Company named Stormy Weather.

“Nobody wanted Stormy Weather,” LeDoux said.

“In an earlier go-round, he had slammed (ProRodeo Hall of Famer and five-time bareback riding world champion) Bruce Ford into the ground, and all year that horse had been throwing guys off or jerking their collarbones apart.”

enough rides, by Chris and Rusty Riddle, that ever got by that horse pretty damn good. That’s because he was what no one wanted to get on, and that’s what Chris had.”

LeDoux said he felt like he may have gotten ready for the ride too early and remembered having to level himself out as the first six or seven bareback riders loaded into the chutes.

Life Changing

LeDoux’s life, music career and stint as a PRORODEO athlete were defined by

But when it was his turn to make a ride, he was ready.

“This is the only ride of my life that matters,” LeDoux said. “Live or die or get crippled, it doesn’t matter. This is the demon we all must stand up to at some point in our life.”

LeDoux gave credibility to his rodeo ballads, winning the 1976 PRCA Bareback Riding World Championship. Fifty years later, his music and legacy as a competitor live on in the sport he loved.

“What I know of him is he was damn sure tough, and obviously he rode good enough,” ProRodeo Hall of Famer and nine-time PRCA World Champion Ty Murray said. “You don’t get a gold buckle by being lucky. It was different when he won it, but he’s still beat the fourteen other guys there (at the National Finals Rodeo).”

LeDoux arrived at the arena two hours early ahead of the final performance, and 1973 RCA Bull Riding World Champion Bobby Steiner was there with his dad and the horse’s owner, ProRodeo Hall of Famer Tommy Steiner.

The duo wished him luck, but in LeDoux’s chapter in The Finals, he said, “I’m sure (Tommy) wants me to buck off so his horse will win bareback horse of the year.”

“He was a legitimate great big buckskin,” Bobby Steiner said of Stormy Weather. “It was a bucker, but they didn’t ride. If you did ride, you couldn’t ride him good. There were only two legitimate good rides on that horse that I consider good

Bobby Steiner said LeDoux somehow tamed the beast to earn his world championship.

“He didn’t look like that with Chris. He didn’t look like the most unbelievable handful,” Steiner said. “You’d have to have seen other people on him to know. Everybody knew that horse, and he was one of the all-time baddest eliminators. For Chris’ gold buckle, he didn’t just draw it, he earned it by that ride.”

LeDoux earned a 78-point ride on Stormy Weather to finish second in Round 10 and clinch his lone PRCA World Championship. He earned $4,912 at the NFR, $1,170 more than the reserve world champ and NFR average winner Jack Ward Jr.

authenticity.

For years, LeDoux sold eight tracks of his records out of the back of his truck along the rodeo road. He didn’t really play gigs while he crisscrossed the country in search of a gold buckle, but he always brought his guitar to strum out a song around a fire or behind the bucking chutes.

LeDoux wrote songs about what he knew — harping on his ranching roots in Wyoming and life on the road as a rodeo cowboy.

“There are guys that rodeo and ranch, but he’s the only one who was ever a world champ and also a very successful singer-songwriter himself,” his son Ned LeDoux said. “It’s kind of flattering when somebody who doesn’t rodeo or wrench writes a song about it as long as it’s done right. But when you have that background and then write and sing about it, people are going to believe you.

Because otherwise, you’re just pretending.”

After LeDoux’s world championship, his music career started to take off. He sold more than 250,000 albums without a record deal.

LeDoux’s parents, siblings and entire family set out to make his career as a singersongwriter successful. They recorded many of the records in a hand-built studio, eight tracks were produced in LeDoux’s mother’s kitchen, his sister put the labels on the records, his uncle hit the road to sell the tapes at feed stores and his son Ned said that his dad probably gave away more music than he sold

“Once he retired from rodeo, he really buckled down on playing shows,” Ned LeDoux said. “He got a band together. But he released 22 albums on his own before he got a record deal.”

His music career made another massive jump in 1989 thanks to Garth Brooks. The hit song “Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)” debuted

that year at the same time that LeDoux started building his band and shifting his focus to playing more gigs and signing a record deal.

The song was released as Brooks’ debut single and served as the first single from his self-titled album, which was co-written by Brooks and Randy Taylor. The song shot all the way up to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart that year.

The song about an aging rodeo cowboy mentioned LeDoux in the third verse.

“The competition’s getting younger/Tougher broncs, you know, I can’t recall/A worn-out tape of Chris LeDoux, lonely women and bad booze/They seem to be the only friends I’ve left at all”

Brooks later played with LeDoux at Cheyenne Frontier Days in 1996, and the two became close friends.

“When you define the title, ‘cowboy’, it’s as much about what you do out of the saddle as you do in the saddle,” Brooks told the PRORODEO

Sports News. “Chris was a success at being a cowboy on a horse and on the ground. He was a true and honest, loving husband, father and friend.

“Nobody gets to lead the perfect life. But for the record, if I could ever be half the man Chris was, I feel I would have lived a perfect life.”

Ned LeDoux remembers the first time he heard that song on the way back from Casper, Wyo., in a van with his family while his dad was behind the wheel.

“He never really listened to the radio, but he might have it up just enough for a little background noise,” Ned LeDoux recalled. “I remember the song came on, and it mentioned something about rodeo, so he went to turn it up a little bit. Then it said, ‘worn out tape of Chris LeDoux.’ And he kind of jerked the wheel.

“I was like, ‘What did that guy just say?’ His career was already building quite well, but I give a big thanks to Garth for letting the rest of the world know. It was a

great relationship, and I think it benefited them both. The rodeo and ranch fans and fans of dad were introduced to Garth, and millions of fans that Garth had were introduced to dad.”

LeDoux’s longtime guitarist and tour manager, Mark Sissel, joined the band around the same time the song came out. He acknowledged that the song brought LeDoux’s music to new audiences, but his superpower was authenticity.

He sang about rodeo as a PRCA World Champion bareback rider. He wrote about days on the ranch after spending hours there. He sang about life on the road because he’d lived it.

“Chris LeDoux was the guy. He was ours,” Sissel said. “He was telling stories about a lifestyle. People connected with that because he was the real deal. It wasn’t a guy with a hat singing cool stories about rodeo. He had a buckle. He was the man. He went down the road and did that.”

LeDoux died on March 9, 2005, at the Casper Medical Center after a battle with bile duct cancer. But his songs and the memories of his 1976 PRCA World Championship are alive and well.

Wellington, Fla. – Kent Farrington (USA) and Greya rose to the top of the standings after a stellar jump-off performance to take top honors in the highest rated Grand Prix in Wellington International history, the $1,000,000 Rolex US Equestrian Open

Farrington

Hoists Trophy

in $1,000,000 Rolex US Equestrian Open Grand Prix CSI5* After Stellar Evening with Greya

Grand Prix CSI5*, a Rolex Series Event. Before a soldout crowd surrounding the International Ring, the duo stopped the timers in an impressive 42.99 seconds to secure their position at the top of the podium ahead of Ben Maher (GBR) and Enjeu De Grisien, who finished in

second place, and Richard Vogel (GER) and Gangster Montdesir rounding out the top three.

“You do this for a long time, and you have some good horses, maybe some great horses, and then you have horses that are an outlier athlete like I believe Greya is,” said Farrington of his

partnership with the mare. According to stats provided by EquiRatings, the pair were competing in their 16th CSI5* 1.60m jump-off together, boasting an impressive 60%win rate from those jumpoffs. The victory also marked Greya’s 10th CSI5* Grand Prix win — a testament to a partnership that Farrington describes as once-in-a-career. “She can do everything. She’s fast, she’s careful, she’s scopey, and she’s rideable. She is just an incredible horse, and that is what you are seeing [in the arena.]”

With a start list featuring many of the world’s top combinations, including six athletes currently ranked inside the top ten of the FEI Jumping World Rankings, alongside numerous Olympians and World Championship combinations, the class lived up to expectations, showcasing the absolute best of international jumping sport. The second edition of the US Equestrian Open Jumping Final continued to bring prestige, visibility, and energy to the evening’s already well-established esteem, with wall-to-wall promotion and coverage, as well as in-depth storytelling and performance data analysis.

“I’ve been in the sport almost all my life and to be able to sit here and watch a Grand Prix like tonight – it’s mind blowing how good it was,” said Michael Stone, President of

Wellington International. “The fact that the crowd silenced when the riders and horses were on course – you could hear a pin drop – and then as they came down to the last fence, everyone was cheering. It was really amazing.

For Stone, the evening represented a milestone and also some motivation for the future. “We’ve always strived to elevate the sport in the U.S.,” he explained. “This is what we are trying to achieve, and it drives us to achieve more, to make it better, and to continue onwards and upwards.”

With a testing track designed by the skilled Guilherme Jorge (BRA), the course demanded accuracy, scope, and tremendous athleticism from the 40 qualified combinations, navigating through the course which featured 18 efforts, and ensuring a highlight finish.

In the first round, Farrington (Wellington, Fla.) and Greya, a 2014 Oldenburg mare (Colestus x Contessa 128) owned by Kent Farrington, LLC, and cared for by Denise Moriarty, set the tone early in the evening, posting the fastest clear effort of the first round with a time of 79.87 seconds.

“I think that is what this course should be and was tonight,” Farrington shared. “It’s a million-dollar purse, you have the best riders in the world, and an incredibly strong starting field. If you under build the course even a little bit, you could easily see 20 clears.” With five clear first round efforts, Farrington felt the balance was just right. “It’s very possible to jump clear, and I think that is what this level of competition should be about.”

Going third in the jumpoff order, the pair took on an abbreviated eight-fence track with precision. In a decisive tactical move, Farrington chose a different line through the second turn than second-place Maher, finding a more direct route that proved to make the difference. Greya stepped up to the challenge, and the duo stopped the clock in 42.99 seconds to seal the victory.

“I knew it was going to be a tough competition. I really trusted [Greya’s] speed tonight,” Farrington said “I tried to go fast enough to put pressure on the others but not take any ridiculous risks. I think the plan luckily paid off.”

When asked about the Open and the impact that the series can have, Farrington said “People start to understand. They start to follow, they start to know who the riders are,

they know who the horses are. I think that’s really what our sport becomes about. It’s starts with a community here knowing what to cheer for.”

Learn more about the US Equestrian Open by visiting the US Equestrian Open microsite, powered by EquiRatings, to follow all of the qualifying and story-telling action throughout the year.

The US Equestrian Open

Jumping Final is the first of the three finals to be hosted as part of the new innovative US Equestrian Open Series. The next final will be the US Equestrian Open Eventing Final hosted at Morven Park International in Leesburg, Va., from October 8-11, followed by the US Equestrian Open Dressage Final to be hosted at Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, Calif., from November 13-14.

BLM highlights individual and group sales of wild horses

The Bureau of Land Management reminds the public that its longstanding Wild Horse and Burro Sale Program offers opportunities for qualified buyers to purchase wild horses and burros, including options for purchasing larger groups.

Purchased wild horses

and burros can become trusted partners for a variety of activities, from trail riding to ranch work and national competitions. With proper training, attention, and patience, these animals can excel in just about any role.

Sale fees start at $25 per animal. To qualify for purchase,

buyers must meet requirements outlined in the Application for Adoption & Sale of Wild Horses or Burros, including certifying intent to provide humane care. Upon approval, buyers receive immediate ownership of their purchased animals with a bill of sale.

Individuals or organizations may purchase up to four animals every six months. The BLM also offers an application process to purchase groups larger than four. For more information on individual and group sales, please contact the BLM at wildhorse@blm.gov or 866-4MUSTANG (866-4687826).

The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act directs the BLM to make available for sale excess wild horses and burros that are over the age of 10 or have been previously offered for adoption at least three times. The BLM also offers wild horses and burros of all ages for adoption.

The BLM manages wild horses and burros on public lands to maintain healthy herds on healthy public rangelands, as required by the Act. Wild horses and burros gathered from public rangelands for population management purposes are made available for adoption and/or sale to qualified homes. Unadopted and unsold animals are cared for by the BLM for the remainder of their lives.

As of December 2025, the BLM cares for nearly 63,000 unadopted and unsold animals in off-range corrals and pastures, costing taxpayers more than $100 million annually. At the same time, an estimated 73,000 wild horses and burros continue to roam public lands (as of March 2025) and reproduce at 15-20% annually.

Placing an animal into private care via adoption or sale saves taxpayers approximately $15,000 over the lifetime of each animal and helps support the BLM’s mission to manage and protect wild horses and burros on public lands.