Photos by Kirstie Marie, Shane Rux & Courtney Borton Ament
FEATURES
2-YEAR RULE: AQHA VOTES TO REMOVE CONTROVERSIAL REGULATION 19-21
By Corrine S. Borton
EVENTS
VIRGINIA MAIDEN: SLOT CLASSES RETURN TO LEXINGTON 26-29
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Photos by Ryan Geiger
PHBA NEWS
GOLD STRIKE: BIG BUCKS AT WORLD SHOW 35
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SHOW STOPPERS
SILVER DOLLAR 34
REGULAR COLUMNS
AMATEUR PROFILE 54-55
Erika Sterling
YOUTH PROFILE 58-59
Hailey Brown
“INSIDE” LAW 31
By Katherine Jarve
“INSIDE” HEALTH 41
Jackie Bellamy-Zions
ASSOCIATION NEWS 67
THE BUZZ 69
MARCH/APRIL, 2026
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Timeless Treasures Photography
howing horses is often defined by the flash of a silver-adorned saddle or the blue of a championship ribbon, but for Georgia competitor Lisa Wilkes, the true story is written in the quiet moments between the gates and the long-term legacy of a breeding program.
In the high-stakes arena of the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) circuits, two horses have come to define her recent journey: Made Like No Other (Scotty), the seasoned professional in the Western Pleasure, and Up N The Ante (Jose), the brown gelding that has demonstrated that a horse’s true calling is sometimes found in the most unexpected places.
The 2026 season began with a familiar rhythm and a string of successes for Made Like No Other. Following a strong showing at the 2025 All American Quarter Horse Congress in the Amateur Select Western Pleasure, Lisa took Made Like No Other to Venice, Florida, for the Fun N Sun Futurity. The Florida sun proved to be a fitting backdrop for a horse that seems to thrive under pressure.
In Venice, the pair dominated, winning the circuit in the Select Western Pleasure and taking the top spot in the Maturity Non-Pro Western Pleasure. For Wilkes, the wins were a testament to a partnership that was still relatively new.
“This was only my second show with Scotty,” she said. “He was as fun to show this time as he was at the Congress.”
The success in Florida served as a prelude to a different kind of duty. Following the show, Scotty was sent to Richland Ranch to stand for the 2026 breeding season. It is a transition that marks the duality of a top-tier stallion's life – navigating the precision of the show ring one month and the future of the breed the next.
Despite his breeding obligations, Wilkes’ plans for Made Like No Other remain ambitious. He is slated to be her partner for the Select and Maturity Non-Pro Western Pleasure
Text Courtney B. Ament Photos Kirstie Marie & Jeff Kirkbride
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Lisa Wilkes is pictured (top) with Made Like No Other, her current Western Pleasure partner and Up N The Ante, her all-around partner.
events throughout the year. While the competitive fire remains – Wilkes admits she, like any exhibitor, would love to end the season with a "globe" in her hand –her perspective has shifted toward a more grounded philosophy.
“I just want to have fun showing Scotty this year at all the major shows,” she said. “If I have learned anything with showing horses, it is to enjoy every ride.”
While Scotty and Jose command the spotlight in the arena, the heartbeat of the operation is found in the foaling barn. The path to the winner’s circle often begins with years of planning, and as any breeder knows, that path is rarely smooth.
Last year brought its share of challenges. Setbacks in the breeding shed and the loss of several foals in utero meant a smaller crop than anticipated. However, the arrival of the first foal of the year, a red road filly nicknamed Fran has provided a bright spot. Described as “super cute and great legged,” Fran represents the promise of things to come.
The anticipation continues to build as Lisa awaits a foal by Made Like No Other out of VS Code Me Lucky. The cross is an encouraging one, having produced high-quality results in the past. With five more foals due next month, the “village” that supports Lisa’s program is preparing for a busy spring, ensuring the next generation of athletes is given every advantage from day one.
If Scotty is the consistent veteran, Up N The Ante – or Jose – is the horse that taught Wilkes the importance of listening to what a horse wants to be.
Sired by No Doubt Im Lazy and out of Bettin With My Heart, Jose was a horse Wilkes raised herself. From the beginning, he was a handful. Raised by a recipient mare who Wilkes describes as “probably too kind,” Jose developed a mischievous, independent streak early “I would tell her on a daily basis she needed to discipline him,” Wilkes joked. “As a yearling, he was constantly s
loping and playing in the field. I should have recognized then that he was an all-around horse in the making with his stamina.”
The initial plan was traditional: Jose was to be a Western Pleasure horse. When trainer Wade Parks started him, Jose was still a stallion. But as the horse grew, his physical attributes began to clash with the requirements of the Western Pleasure pen. His stride was getting bigger, his reach more significant.
The turning point came during a show in Florida. Wade Parks called Lisa with a blunt assessment.
“Lisa, I just don’t think Jose can do the pleasure,” Parks told her. “He has great rhythm, but his stride is just too big. If I asked him to slow down for the pleasure, his front leg is not going to be good at all.”
The news could have been a disappointment for a self-described “Western Pleasure girl,” but the conversation quickly shifted to Jose’s potential in other disciplines. Parks suggested the Hunt Seat. After a single evening of testing Jose’s extended trot, the verdict was in. People at the show were already stopping to ask about the brown gelding with the eye-catching movement.
Up N The Ante was gelded, and his career as an all-around horse began. He started in Hunter Under Saddle as a 3-year-old and progressed to Trail as a 4-year-old, followed by Horsemanship and Equitation. This year, the repertoire expands again as he enters the Western Riding.
The transition from the specialized world of Western Pleasure to the multi-disciplinary All-Around circuit was a learning curve for both horse and rider. Wilkes credits much of that success to trainer Carly Parks.
“Carly has taught me so much,” Wilkes said. “I honestly had zero knowledge of the all-around classes. The way you present your horse and execute patterns is different.”
That education was put to the test at the Congress last year. After a disappointing performance in the Level 1 Equitation, Wilkes found herself frustrated. Carly, however, saw an opportunity. She pushed Wilkes to enter the Level 3 class – a much harder pattern against tougher competition.
“She said, ‘Lisa, the good thing is you get to show the Equitation again. You and Jose can do it,’” Wilkes recalled.
The confidence was well-placed. Wilkes and Jose went on to win the Level 3 Amateur Equitation at the Congress in their first full year of showing the event. It was a milestone
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Lisa Wilkes’ all-around partner, Up N The Ante, is pictured on the opposite page (top). Originally intended to be a Western Pleasure prospect Jose showed his talent landed in other areas, such as Hunter Under Saddle, Horsemanship and Equitation. Together, Wilkes and Jose developed into formidable all-around contenders, showing and winning at high level shows like the Quarter Horse Congress (second and third rows, left) and the AQHA World Show (second and third rows, right). Made Like No Other (pictured on this page) is transitioning into Wilkes’ newest Western Pleasure partner. After winning the Congress and the AQHA World Show with Kenny Lakins, Lisa has now started showing the sorrel stallion in Amateur Select Western Pleasure and Non-Pro Western Pleasure Maturity classes.
that solidified Up N The Ante’s status as a top-tier athlete and Wilkes’ growth as a versatile rider.
Today, Jose is known as a “big teddy bear” with a heart of gold. He is a horse that thrives on work and stays “forgiving” as Wilkes learns the nuances of new patterns. His trophy room is already crowded, with wins at the NSBA World Show and a bronze globe at the AQHA World Show in Level 3 Amateur Hunt Seat Equitation and Hunter Under Saddle.
Reflecting on her journey with Scotty and Jose, Lisa is quick to point out that no win happens in a vacuum. The “setbacks” – the injuries, the horses that don't train up, the losses – are balanced by the support of a dedicated team.
She credits her husband, Mike, for his unwavering encouragement, and her two sets of trainers – Kenny and Ashley Lakins, and Wade and Carly Parks – for keeping the horses healthy and on track.
For Lisa, the move into the allaround arena has been more than just a way to collect ribbons; it has been a way to stay engaged with the sport she loves.
“It keeps me busy at the shows,” she said. “I get to ride a lot, which I love. The more I get to ride, the better rider I am.”
As the 2026 season moves forward, the goals remain clear: stay competitive, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. Whether it's Scotty in the Western Pleasure or Jose in the allaround classes, the focus is on the bond between horse and rider – a bond that has proven to be the most rewarding win of all.
After years of heated debate within the equine industry, the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) has voted to repeal its controversial “TwoYear Rule,” a regulation that restricted the use of frozen semen and embryos from certain horses. The decision, finalized during the 2026 AQHA Convention in Las Vegas, signals a significant change in how breeders can manage and preserve equine genetics.
What the rule was
The rule applied to stallions and mares foaled in 2015 or later and governed the use of frozen genetics after a horse’s death or sterilization.
REG111.6 With respect to a stallion foaled in 2015 or after, the semen of such stallion may not be used beyond two calendar years following the year of his death or his being gelded to produce a foal eligible for registration with AQHA. If fresh, cooled or frozen semen is used to create an embryo, refer to REG 112.9.
REG112.9 With respect to a mare foaled in 2015 or after, any embryos of such mare may not be used beyond two calendar years following the year of her death or being spayed to produce a foal eligible for registration with AQHA. If fresh, cooled or frozen semen is used to create an embryo, the embryo must be in utero within the defined time as outlined for the stallion and the mare.
If frozen embryos were involved, both the stallion’s and mare’s timelines applied.
The rule did not apply to horses foaled before 2015, meaning semen from many influential stallions that died prior to that date could continue to be used without the same restriction.
Background of the two-year rule
First adopted in 2015, the Two-Year Rule applied to stallions and mares foaled in 2015 or later. Under the
“The rule did not apply to horses foaled before 2015, meaning semen from many influential stallions that died prior to that date could continue to be used without the same restriction.
policy, frozen semen or embryos could not be used to produce an AQHA-registered foal more than two calendar years after the horse’s death, gelding, or sterilization.
The rule was originally intended to promote genetic diversity within the breed and prevent overreliance on deceased “popular sires.” Supporters argued it encouraged breeders to invest in living horses and maintain a forward-looking gene pool.
How the rule compared
The AQHA rule was controversial because it was stricter than many other major breed registries, which often allow for the use of frozen semen as long as it is available, treating it as a valuable asset rather than a time-limited commodity.
Thoroughbred (Jockey Club): Maintains a very strict “live cover only” rule. Artificial insemination, embryo transfer, and frozen semen are not permitted. If a stallion dies, his breeding career ends immediately. This is far more restrictive than the AQHA's former two-year window.
Paso Fino/Other Associations: Frequently allowed the use of frozen semen years – sometimes decades – after a stallion's death (e.g., cases of semen used 10+ years later).
Warmblood Registries: Often permit the use of frozen semen indefinitely, focusing on the quality of the foal through performance testing rather than limiting the timeframe of the sire's use.
Industry controrsy
Despite its intentions, the rule quickly became one of the most divisive policies in AQHA history. Breeders, particularly those working with younger or emerging stallions, argued that the restriction unfairly limited long-term breeding programs and devalued frozen genetics.
Critics also pointed out inconsistencies in the rule’s application. Older stallions – those foaled before 2015 – were exempt, allowing their genetics to be used indefinitely, while newer bloodlines faced strict limits. Others raised concerns about unintended consequences. Some breeders claimed the rule pressured owners into making rushed breeding decisions or even delaying euthanasia to preserve genetic eligibility.
The 2026 vote
At the 2026 convention, tensions came to a head.
After extensive debate among members, committees, and industry stakeholders, AQHA membership ultimately voted to repeal the rule entirely.
The decision followed years of failed amendment attempts, including proposals to extend the allowable timeframe for frozen semen use to 10 or even 20 years.
Breeders advocating for repeal argued that market forces – not regulation – should determine which bloodlines persist. They also emphasized that modern data tools and genetic tracking offer more effective ways to manage diversity than blanket time limits.
What it means for the industry
With the Two-Year Rule removed, breeders will now have greater flexibility to use frozen semen and embryos without strict posthumous time limits. This change is expected to:
• Extend the influence of promising young stallions and mares
• Provide financial security for breeding programs
• Allow more strategic, long-term genetic planning
However, the repeal does not end concerns about genetic diversity. Industry leaders note that the concentration of breeding among a small number of highly popular living stallions remains a significant issue.
Looking ahead
The repeal marks a turning point in AQHA policy and highlights the growing influence of member participation in shaping industry rules. It also reflects broader changes in equine reproductive technology and the increasing role of data in breeding decisions.
While the Two-Year Rule is gone, the debate it sparked – balancing genetic diversity, breeder autonomy, and technological advancement – will likely continue to shape the future of the American Quarter Horse industry.
2026 event draws nearly 40,000 AQHA entries to WestWorld
with WestWorld, plans are underway to further expand lunging and riding capabilities.
With just under 30,000 AQHA entries and almost 40,000 total entries, the 2026 Arizona Sun Circuit not only felt huge, it was huge.
The Arizona Quarter Horse Association (AzQHA) welcomed 1,800 horses to WestWorld in Scottsdale, Feb. 27 through March 8, with 10 days of sun, robust competition across all levels and a plethora of awards and added money. “Everything came together to create a show that delivered on all levels,” said AzQHA CEO and Sun Circuit Director Doug Huls.
“We had fantastic weather, the facilities were exceptional and we introduced several new classes, giving exhibitors even more options to show their horses,” he said. “The feedback I and all our staff heard was overwhelmingly positive.”
Across 15 show and warm-up arenas, and throughout all disciplines, schedules ran efficiently even when class entries exceeded expectations. Huls credits his team with the show’s success.
“We’re very fortunate to have excellent staff at every level, from office to gate, and our arena managers keep everything moving along,” he said.
Maximizing facilities also helped absorb the large number of horses. Exhibitors in the cattle classes were pleased with the new permanent warm-up arena that Arizona Quarter Horse constructed and financed. Working in close partnership
The core philosophy of Sun Circuit is to ensure a thoroughly enjoyable experience for exhibitors, their friends and family. Added money events, parties and give-aways go a long way to make that principle a reality. Random drawings for five Axis side-by-sides worth over $10k took place, and Prize Patrol offered fun games both in the arenas and around the barns, spreading fun along with thousands of dollars worth of electronics, gift certificates, and horse products. A lunch party sponsored by AzQHA and a second sponsored jointly by Ogden Ranch and Kristin Brock Show Horses gave exhibitors an opportunity to mix food with fun.
While achieving one’s goals in the arena is a valuable reward, winning cash for those efforts sure makes a show more fun, and this year’s Sun Circuit had plenty of cash to go around. Over $81,000 went to winners in AQHA and NSBA added-money classes, with another $35,700 in AQHA roping.
The 53rd Arizona Sun Circuit drew competitors from all over the United States and Canada to Scottsdale Feb. 27-March 8. On this page (clockwise from upper right) Terry Cross and Hez Extreme, winners of the 4 & 5-Year-Old Open Trail; April Gentry and Hes Simply Western; and Charlotte Green with Mechanic Parking Only. On the opposite page (top) Michelle Monteith and Feeling Groovey, winners of the 3 & 4-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure; and one of the many Lead Line competitors.
Text Kristen Spinning Photos Jeff Kirkbride
Super Sires brought an additional $14,500 to the table. In addition, 36 saddles were awarded to Circuit and High Point champions along with trophies, silver platters, buckles, pads, Rod Patrick Boots, spurs and champion rings.
Highlighted offerings included the $10,000 Added 4 & 5 Year Old NSBA Open Trail, which has become a spotlight event. Out of 21 horses, Hez Extreme, shown by Terry Cross for Toni Hughes, claimed $3,831.68 and the champion saddle. Reserve honors and $2,634.28 went to Cool Sultry Lady with Tyler Schultz aboard for owners David & Wendy Brodersen. Stoppin For A Invite, shown by Micah Hansen for Kirk & Debra Sharp, was third, winning $2,275.06.
it was Dun Gone Southern, shown by Sara Simons and owned by Josh Weakly, who took top honors and a check for $2,864. Susie Johns’ Blue Blazer, shown by Brad Ost, was back in the money, taking second and $1,650. The Goldenn Girl added $1,275 to her earnings in third.
Running concurrently, the $2,000 Added Limited Rider division saw Cool Sultry Lady and Tyler Schultz back in the winner’s circle, receiving another check for $1,049.14 and a Sterling Custom Saddle sponsored by Kathy’s Show Equipment and Sterling. A tie for Reserve awarded $725.14 to A Blue Is Coming with Kendra Weis at the reins for Jordan Macan, and to VS Nice Ride with Becky George for Nicole Conner.
Hez Extreme and Terry Cross also won the concurrent $2,500 Added Super Sires division, earning another $1,600 for Toni Hughes. Cool Sultry Lady earned another $1,100, while Stoppin For A Invite won $950.
More money enticed Trail exhibitors by combining scores from each go of Junior in the $7,500 Added 5 and Under Maiden Stakes. The Goldenn Girl, owned by Eric Mendrysa and shown by Jesse Jones put together the rides to claim the champion title and $2,639. Go Swish shown by Taylor Searles for Jim Searles earned $2,233 for the reserve spot, while Brad Ost showed Blue Blazer for Susie Johns to earn $1,421 for third.
Moving on to the $7,500 Added 5 & Under Maiden Stakes Western Riding,
A trio of added-money Derbies and Stakes classes awaited exhibitors in Ranch. After 17 runs across L2 and L3 Juniors, it was Mike Edwards showing Ann Rosato’s horse, Caughtup In A Moment, to receive the champion’s buckle and a check for $1,456 in the 4 Year Old Ranch Riding Derby. Close behind, CBK Lyle Loves It with Bud Lyon aboard for Kaylyn Sanders cinched the reserve money of $1,144. Laurel Walker-Denton showed her horse All Ice No Chrome for an $884 payday.
Non Pros had their shot at a piece of $2,500 added and jackpot money in the Non-Pro Derby. Magnums Peppy, shown by Melissa Brown, topped the scores to take home the buckle and $2,012.50. Kim Lyons and ChillinLikeAVillain were reserve, earning $1,449.00 while Lane Kail rounded out the top three with SS Walk The Line, winning $1,046.50.
With $2,500 added in the L1 Open Ranch Horse Stakes, composite scores from L1 Ranch Trail, L1 Ranch Riding, L1 Working Western Rail plus halter determined the winners. Beth Clemons showed Certified Copy, owned by Sandy Vargo to win the trophy saddle and Mike Edwards was back in the money with Caughtup In A Moment, earning $750 and a saddle pad. Performance boots and $500 went to Great Sparks Of Fire owned by Sherri and Phil Tearney and shown by Laurel Walker-Denton. s
The NSBA Non-Pro Ranch Horsemanship had $1,000 added, but the intrigue and buzz of this new class is what drew 42 entries. With only one go, the class resembled a Ranch Riding pattern with spins, transitions, logs and side passes, but the fundamental difference is that Ranch Horsemanship focuses more on the rider, not the horse. Exhibitors remained around the arena after their runs to support one another in a party-like atmosphere. Katie Fox showed Seismic Reaction to top the field and win $550. Right behind them were Sarah Rose Jons and Inferno Joe, tied with Sydney Weaver and Cocktail Per Se, each receiving $341. Prizes were awarded through 13th and cash paid through 8th place, but all exhibitors felt the excitement of being the first in what will surely become a Sun Circuit favorite.
The National Championship of Showmanship, Horsemanship and Equitation has been a popular, tournament-style competition which culminates in head-to-head ride-offs between the top four finalists from youth, amateur and select in each class. Champions receive a buckle and all finalists are awarded an embroidered leather jacket. In Showmanship, Charlotte Green and Mechanic Parking Only advanced to the top spot in Amateur, and Heidi Rasor showing Best Gift Yet received the buckle in Select. Youth Showmanship saw Izzy Hosteler and Gimme Ur Best Stuff reach the champion title.
In Horsemanship, April Gentry and Hez Simply Western were the Select Champions, while Charlotte Green and Mechanic Parking Only received the buckle for Amateur. Liv Winter and Miss Dark Sparkle topped the Four Finalists in Youth.
Estelle McParlan and Cool Made Machine emerged as champs in the Youth Equitation. April Gentry’s ride on Hez Simply Western won her a second buckle in Select and Kaleena Weakly with Dun Gone Southern earned the Amateur buckle.
Seeking to inject new opportunities for western perform ance horses and exhibitors, a new pattern class, Western Ver
satility, joined Sun Circuit’s lineup this year. With an emphasis on forward movement, judges placed horses with an eye toward a natural headset and a balanced, fluid stride. Riders remarked that the class was both challenging and fun. Savannah McGuire rode Icandie to the win and took home a Big Screen TV. Margaux Tucker rode The Genuine Draft for second and won a Blackstone Grill.
Sun Circuit welcomed back English Versatility for its second year. Like a Hunt Seat version of a Ranch class, English Versatility is designed to show the fun of riding a versatile, forward-moving horse in a pattern class with poles,
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On the opposite page (clockwise from top), show attendees participate in one of the many games featured at the show; Kristin Crumpton and Sleeping With The Best in Amateur English Versatility; Justin Clay Arrington and Thirsty Thursday; and Estelle McParlan and Cool Made Machine in Youth Equitation. On this page (counter clockwise from top): Sara Simons showing Dun Gone Southern in Western Riding; Mike Edwards and Caughtup In A Moment; Jesse Jones and The Goldenn Girl; and Angela Fox and Flat Broke
cavalettis, and transitions. In the Amateur, Kristin Crumpton rode Sleeping With The Best to the win for $500 and a Hever Suitcase, while Cool Made Machine and Hannah Lind won
$500 and a Hever Suitcase for the Open.
Sun Circuit offered several NSBA Futurity classses.
Michelle Monteith showed Feeling Groovey, winning both the 3/4 year Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure and the Limited for a combined total of $1,089.52. Tonya Brown showed Lady Marmalade in the $2,500 3 Year Old Novice Horse for the win of $836.88, while Angie Cannizzaro showing Speck It Out picked up $557.92 for second. In the $1,000 Added NSBA 3 Yr Open Western Pleasure Futurity, Clay Arrington rode Ronnie Kent’s horse, Thirsty Thursday to win $836.88, and Gil Galyean piloted J Cool to second for $557.92.
NSBA Hunter Under Saddle futurity classes featured $1,000 added to each. Beth Case and Couture In Chrome received the trophy and check for $757.92 in the 3/4 Year Old Open Hunter Under Saddle. Keith Miller showed Jessica Wolfer’s horse, Im Better, to second earning $505.28. Angela Fox and Flat Broke topped the scores in the NSBA 3/4 yr Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle, winning $598.05. Kelley Marie Martin showed Bless this Hot mess to receive the second place money of $465.15 while Southern Krymsum and Chris Lagerblade took third for $265.80.
A large and diverse slice of the extended show family paused on Saturday for a touching tribute and toast to Casey Devitt. The event served as backdrop to The PARD Award, a perpetual plaque in loving memory of him. PARD stands for the qualities Casey embodied: Professionalism, Athleticism, Respect, and Dedication.
In an emotional presentation, Curtis Reynolds became the inaugural recipient.
Huls reflects on the show while also planning for next year.
“It’s fun to see the enthusiasm brought to the new events,” he said. “The Non-Pro Horsemanship was a huge success and will be an important addition to our schedule in the future. We are also going to continue to build on the English and Western Versatility events. Now that we have gotten those classes introduced and word is spreading about the fun and challenges they present, I think we’ll see growing interest.”
Huls acknowledges it takes a huge team to produce a world-class show.
“We can’t thank our sponsors enough for all they do for the show. It is their support that truly enables us to deliver everything we do for the exhibitors,” he added. “The City of Scottsdale has also been a tremendous partner, and AzQHA is proud to host the largest AQHA circuit in the world in a city that truly delights our exhibitors, their friends and family.”
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Scholarships for Training Equine Professionals
Scholarships for Training Equine Professionals (S.T.E.P.) is an innovative approach intended to provide financial support for those who desire occupations in the equine industry with a CURRENT PHBA MEMBERSHIP. It is specifically designed for those wanting positions as: Assistant Farriers, Assistant Horse Trainers, Backside Track Apprentices, Horse Farm Apprentice Managers, Rodeo Stock Contract Assistants, Rodeo Management, Interns, Grooms, Saddle Manufacturer Assistants, Retail Western Sales Agents and others, yet to be identified. A $1,000, one-time, scholarship will be provided those selected with 50% paid at the beginning of training and the remaining 50% paid upon the documented successful completion of the program.
APPLICATION FORM
Scholarships for Training Equine Professionals
We want to help you STEP into your future!
Updated May 2025
Scholarships for Training Equine Professionals (S.T.E.P.) is an innovative approach intended to provide financial support for those who desire occupations in the equine industry. It is not an academic scholarship but it is specifically designed for those wanting positions as Assistant Farriers, Assistant Horse Trainers, Backside Track Apprentices, Horse Farm Apprentice Managers, Rodeo Stock Contract Assistants, Rodeo Management, Interns, Grooms, Saddle Manufacturer Assistants, Retail Western Sales Agents, and others, yet to be identified. A $1000, one time, scholarship will be provided those selected with 50% paid at the beginning of training and the remaining 50% paid upon the documented successful completion of the program.
NAME
ADDRESS CITY STATE
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DEADLINE: March 1
DESCRIBE YOUR CAREER GOALS
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Thank you for continuing to support and serve the equine industry. You are why our animals are healthy and well cared for. We appreciate your genuine interest. Please feel welcome to ask any questions at mafhorses@bright.net or by calling (419) 260-7687.
Please send your application to:
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you know you might have hidden in your barn?
“Dig” through your horse’s registration papers. Horses produced from the breeding of at least one Palomino in color as stated on papers going back 3 GENERATIONS (with any of the PHBA recognized breeds), can now be registered as . . .
Show at the PHBA World Show for Palomino Bred World Titles
Earn Local & National Points, ROMs, Superiors & Year-End Awards
Big checks draw competitors from across the country
Text Corrine S. Borton
Photos Ryan Geiger Photography & Courtney Borton Ament
A total of 19 unshown Western Pleasure contenders battled it out for a $69,800 purse in the 2026 Virginia Maiden 3Year-Old & Over Open Western Pleasure class held in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Lexington on March 28.
When the placings of the six judges were tallied, and high and low cards dropped, Texas trainer Aaron Moses loped forward riding Girl Code to collect a check for $16,250.
Girl Code is a 2023 chestnut mare, sired by VS Code Red out of Missy Machine. She was bred by Paulette Christen and is owned by Kristen Galyean, of Claremont, Oklahoma.
Reserve in the class went to Cool Gypsy Woman and Jamie Hartman, earning $11,700. Cool Gypsy Woman a 2022 chestnut mare, sired by Cool Breeze out of Always Good Faith. She was bred by Looney Quarter Horses LLC and is owned by Renee Norleen, of Aubrey, Texas.
The Intermediate champion in the class went to VS Im No Doubts and Dillon Vaughn, who also placed eighth in the Open Division. They collected $3,250 for the eighth place and an additional $1,500 for the Intermediate win. VS Im No Doubts is a 2023 bay stallion, sired by No Doubt Im Lazy out
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Aaron Moses rides Girl Code (top) to a win in the 2026 Virginia Maiden 3-Year-Old & Over Western Pleasure class held March 28 in Lexington. Above, Moses collects a check for $16,250 for the win. On the opposite page, Trisha Yamber pilots The Agreement to a win in the 3-Year-Old & Over Maiden Hunter Under Saddle, collecting a check for $9,360.
of Vital Signs R Stable. He was bred and is owned by Superior Care Management LLC, of Jenks, Oklahoma.
Reserve in the Intermediate Division was All Fiired Up, a 2023 sorrel gelding, sired by Fiire N Ice out of Makin This Look Good. He was bred by Barbara Clifford and is owned by Melanie M. Parker, of Vidalia, Georgia. Jason English was the exhibitor, picking up the check for $1,000 for the Intermediate Reserve and another $2,600 for placing ninth in the Open Division.
The Virginia Maiden Limited Championship went to Now Or Neverr, a 2020 bay gelding, sired by Machine Made out of Talkin My Best. Piloted by Kaitlin Hutchinson, Now Or Neverr also placed fourth in the Open Division. He was bred by Anna McCoy and is owned by the Parrish Hutchinson Partnership, of Pavo, Georgia. Now Or Neverr earned $6,500 in the Open Division and a $1,200 Limited Division bonus.
Reserve in the Limited Division was Sudden Made, a 2021 chestnut gelding, sired by Machine Made out of Peaches Smoothie, shown by Christina Brantner, earning $800 He was bred by Tina Krishbaum and is owned by Brantner. In addition to the Reserve in the Limited division, the pair placed 10th in the Open Division, collecting $2,275. Lola Allen and Lets Go Girls placed third in the Limited Division earning $500.
Other placings in the Open Division include:
Third: Ashley Lakins and Topp Shelf Martini, a
Seventh: Casey Willis and GI Jaane, winning $3,700. The 2022 red roan mare is sired by VS Code Red out of Its A Good Life. She was bred by Ale Quarter Horses and is owned by Jessica Landry, of Titusville, Florida.
3-Year-Old & Over Maiden Hunter Under Saddle
On Friday evening, March 27, during the March To Virginia American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Show Circuit, The Agreement, sired by Enticed out of Hot In Her Sleep won the 3 & Over Maiden Hunter Under Saddle with Trisha Yamber in the irons for owner Kelsey Bell, earning $9,360. The Agreement was bred by Jeff Cochran. Reserve in the class was Smooth Like Butter and Jamie English, earning $7,920. Smooth Like Butter was sired by Good Better Best out of Majorly Blue Skys and is owned by Kelly Smith.
Third & Limited Champion: VS Redline (VS Code Red x Lopin By So Easy), bred and owned by Morgan Parcher, and shown by Christine Brantner; $5,040 and $1,200.
Fourth: Got What I Deserve (Outlaw Enterprise x Depreciated Asset) bred & owned by Randahl Hoffman and shown by Kaitlin Hutchinson; $3,600.
Fifth: Ill Sleep On It (Too Sleepy To Zip x Scare The Crows) bred by Shelley Donovan, owned by Rebecca Edward and shown by Farley McLendon; $3,240.
Sixth and Reserve Limited Champion: Crackin Hubba Gum (VS Cracked The Code x Huntin Interest) bred by Marcia Kayler, owned and shown by Amanda Sullivan; $2,880 and $800
Seventh: Make Good Choices (Good Better Best x Allie Kat) bred & owned by Tracy Barbeito and shown by Nicole Briere; $2,160
Eighth: Chrome Alone (When In Chrome x Irish Lace) bred by Kelly Woodlief, owned by Kelley Stephens and shown by
Other Futurity Classes
In addition to the 3-Year-Old & Over Maiden Western Pleasure and Hunter Under Saddle slot classes, The Virginia Maiden, featured several other futurity classes. s
Western Pleasure
Maturity Non-Pro Western Pleasure (6 shown) – Champion: Saltt Life owned and shown by Kylee Wiseman; Reserve: Made Suddenly, owned and shown by Whitney Small; Third: Miss Goodlookin, owned and shown by Nettie Olsen; Fourth: No Doubt Im Sleepy, owned and shown by Mark Owen; Fifth: Girlz R Players 2, owned and shown by Jessica Haulings; Sixth: KM Right Call, owned by Nicole Marshall and shown by Brody Marshall.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure (1 shown) – Champion: HotStoppinSmokeShow, owned and shown by Daphne Evans.
$10,000 Horse Open Western Pleasure (5 shown) – Champion: Got Em Saying Wow, owned by Kylee Wiseman and shown by Blake Britton; Reserve Champion: Peace Of Pumpkin Pie, owned by Cindy Stec and shown by Brian Cox; Third: Batts The Way, owned by Suzan VonEssen and shown by Jason English; Fourth: When Ya Know Ya Know, owned by Michael MicInnis and shown by Kaitlin Hutchinson; Fifth: No Doubt Im Sleepy, owed by Mark Owen and shown by Danny Desmond.
3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure (4 shown) – Champion: Icee Hott (Fiire N Ice x A Good Sweet Peach), bred by Bret & Candy Parrish, owed by Stephanie Janis and shown by Ricky Noiseux; Reserve Champion: Nettworth (Nothin But Nett x SST Sheza Hulk), bred by Steven & Susan Thompson, owned by Dakota Phelps and shown by Rebecca Britton; Third: Black Iice (Fiire n Ice x Ima Hot Invitation), bred by Bret & Candy Parrish, owned by Bryan Reger and shown by Brian Cox; Fourth: HeartStoppinSmokeShow, owned by Daphne Evans and shown by Tyler Stevens.
3-Year-Old & Over Limited Horse Western Pleasure –Champion: Makin Me In Lace, owned by Bill Napier, shown by Kenny Lakins, $3,680; Reserve: SoCoolIMagnificent, owned by Morgan Evans, shown by Brent Garringer, $2,530; Third: So Flattered, owned by Chandler Marks, shown by Cole Baker, $2,195.
Hunter Under Saddle
Maturity Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle (9 shown) –Champion: All The Best Things, owned and shown by Shelly Boyle; Reserve Champion: Im The Greater Good, owned by Suzanne Duquette and shown by Erin Duquette; Third: Good Ol Boys Club, owned and shown by Allison Rock; Fourth: Give Me A Good Alibi, owned and shown by Maryn Klaus; Fifth: Hott N I Know It, owned and shown by Denise D’Anna; Sixth: Pretty Moved, owned and shown by Allyson Merrill.
3-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle (3 shown) –Champion: Southern Therapy, owned and shown by Virginia Hamadi; Reserve Champion: Yall Stop, owned by Joseph
Brewer and shown by Elizabeth Brewer; Third: O How She Moves Me, owned by Jennifer Leasure and shown by Morgan Hemming.
3 & Over Limited Horse Hunter Under Saddle (5 shown) – Champion: Pretty Moves, owned by Allyson Merrill and shown by Tracey Kauffman; Reserve Champion: CockTailCoversations, owned and shown by Paisley Mathis; Third: Soh Hot, owned by Pierre Briere and shown by Nicole Briere; Fourth: A Warriors Ride, owned by Ashley Edwards and shown by Tyler Stevens; Fifth: Rides Like A Bently, owned and shown by Katrina Johnson.
Maturity Open Hunter Under Saddle (6 shown) –Champion: Ok Will Do (Good Better Best x WhenOnlyTheBestWillDo), bred by Nancy Sue Ryan, owned and shown by Farley McLendon; Reserve Champion: Good Ol Boys Club, (Good Better Best x Shez Immortal), bred by Capital Quarter Horses, owned by Allison Rock and shown by Jamie English; Third: Im The Greater Good (Good I Will
Pictured on the opposite page (clockwise from top) is Virginia Hamadi and Southern Therapy, winners of the 3-Year-Old Non-Pro Hunter Under Saddle; Ricky Noiseux and Icee Hott, winners of the 3-Year-Old Open Western Pleasure; and Kylee Wiseman and Saltt Life, winners of the Non-Pro Western Pleasure Maturity. On this page (left) Erika Collins-Sterling and Xtra Wimpys Catalyst, winners of the Non-Pro Working Western Rail and Daphne Evans and HotStopinSmokeShow, winners of the 3-Year-Old Non-Pro Western Pleasure.
Be x Detailed Coat), bred by Sandra Morgan, owned by Erin Duquette and shown by Suzanne Duquette; Fourth: Eye MakeItLook Easy (Easy On The Eyez x LookWhatUMadeMeHoo), bred by Brandy Jo Clark, owned by Waukegan Farms and shown by Joy Wheeler; Fifth: Cheaper Than Therapy (The Next Detail x OooLaLa Doll), bred by Ron Horn, owned by Rosemary Barber and shown by Tracey Kauffman; Sixth: Rides Like A Bentley (Un Forgettable x Whose Envious), bred by Virginia Tech Foundation, owned and shown by Katrina Johnson. Ranch
3-Year-Old & Over Maiden Working Ranch Rail (28 shown) – Champion (Reserve Intermediate): Whiz A Chiolena, owned by Amanda McGinley and shown by Bradley Hill, $5,850/$1,200; Reserve: Hesa Gone Boone, owned and shown by John Roberts, $4,212; Third: Shogunn, owned by Amanda McGinley and shown by Beth Gouthro, $3,042; Fourth: Thee Smooth Operator, owned by Scota Horses LLC and shown by Shannon Quinlan, $2,340; Fifth(Champion Limited): Three Ten Tuh Yuma, owned by Ashley Nicholas and shown by Tyle Stevens, $1,989/$1,200; Sixth: Bone Daddy, owned by Erika Sterlimng and shown by Matt Gouthro, $1,638.
Non-Pro Working Western Rail – Champion: Xtra Wimpys Catalyst, owned and shown by Erika Collins Syterling, $2,615; Reserve: Iscream For Icecream, owned by Amanda McGinley, shown by Sean Garrett McGinley, $1,882.80; Third: Whiz A Chicolena, owned and shown by Amanda McGinley, $1,359.
E�ka Collins St�li�
Oklahoma competitor finds show success by returning to her roots
Text Courtney B. Ament Photos Shane Rux & Courtney B. Ament
For Erika Collins Sterling, the dirt of a horse show arena feels like home, though her path back to it was anything but linear. At 47, Sterling is navigating a “second act” in the equine world, one only dreamed about by most riders. After a decade-long hiatus marked by family loss and professional demands, she hasn’t just returned to showing – she has redefined her legacy within the Ranch discipline.
Born in North Fort Myers, Florida, Sterling’s roots were split between the coastal tides of the Sunshine State and the rugged landscapes of the Midwest.
“I played volleyball in elementary school,” Sterling said. “But I preferred to spend most of my free time at the barn down the street or at the beach with my dad.”
That pull toward the land eventually led her to Winfield, Kansas, where she traded beach days for 4-H chapters and weekends running speed events at local play days. When she wasn't competing, she was working on the family ranch.
Her dedication to livestock grew stronger at Oklahoma State University. While earning a bachelor’s degree in animal
science with an emphasis on reproduction and ranch management, Sterling became a founding member of the original club-level Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) team. It was a grassroots effort that changed the landscape of collegiate sports in Stillwater.
“We were so successful as a self-sponsored club, having several riders qualify for nationals, that OSU took notice and created the now current NCAA equestrian team,” Sterling said. "I’m proud to say I was part of the infant stage of that.”
After graduating in 2001, Sterling’s career took a unique turn. While horses remained her passion, her profession became the sea. For 20 years, she owned and operated a successful saltwater aquarium company, designing and installing complex aquatic systems for homes and businesses across Oklahoma.
The business eventually led her to meet her husband, Jeremy. The couple met in 2002 while she was working at an aquarium store. He had purchased a home with an established tank and needed help navigating the hobby.
“Friendship over several years being a regular weekly customer eventually turned into dating, and the rest is his
Sterling’s early showing career was defined by grit. In 1999, she started showing on the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) circuit on a home-bred gelding, lacking the flashy equipment of her peers.
“I didn’t own any show equipment, so I used a plain roping saddle,” she said. “I stuck out, but again, I was just happy to be there in the mix.”
Despite the modest start, she became a formidable Amateur competitor, reaching the finals at the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Showmanship. But, as fate would have it, family health needs forced her to again step away from the arena in 2013.
When she finally returned to the pen in 2024, she shifted her focus to ranch events. The results were immediate.
“Coming back as a Ranch rider over 10 years later was where things shined for me,” Sterling said. “I have had incredible success in my first full year of showing this division –more than most deserve.”
That success is credited to a trio of extraordinary horses. Her “heart horse,” a 2019 dun mare named Princess Ice (Siri), has become a mainstay in the winner's circle.
In their first year together, they claimed World Championships in the American Paint Horse Association (APHA), the Palomino Horse Breeders of America (PHBA), and the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA).
“She’s possibly the sweetest creature on the planet,” Sterling said. “She wakes up a ray of sunshine every day.”
tory,” Sterling said. The two married in 2007.
The labor-intensive years of running a business were eventually eclipsed by family obligations. In 2018, Sterling began to scale back her company to care for her father following a Stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. Following his death, she stepped up to manage the family ranch and care for her grandmother.
“My grandmother and I were exceptionally close, so that dedicated time together was extra special,” she said.
Following her grandmother’s death in late 2020, Sterling retired from the aquarium industry to focus on the ranch and her return to the saddle.
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Erika Collins Sterling is pictured on the opposite page with Xtra Wimpys Catalyst. On this page Sterling is pictured (clockwise from top) with Xtra Wimpys Catalyst at the AQHA World Show; with her ‘heart horse,’ Princess Ice and with her husband, Jeremy.
Then there is Xtra Wimpys Catalyst (Zorro), a jet-black stallion by Wimpys Little Step and out of Im Not Blonde. Zorro was a seasoned Reining contender when Sterling purchased him at the 2024 World Show. He transitioned to Ranch events “like a duck to water.” In one year, Zorro secured eight World Championships and three Congress Championships, adding over $55,000 to his lifetime earnings.
“He’s truly a unicorn with incredible hair,” Sterling said.
Rounding out the string is Neonlites NGunfights (JJ), a 2020 bay stallion by Colonels Smoking Gun. While JJ primarily competes in open events with Sterling’s trainer, Matt Gouthro, Sterling joins for select classes. Despite what she calls his “little boy brain,” JJ has collected six World Championships.
As the 2026 season begins, Sterling is focused on consistency. She plans to campaign Siri, Zorro, and JJ across all major ranch events, aiming to build on the momentum of a record-breaking 2025.
For Sterling, the journey from a self-taught rider in 4-H to a multi-association World Champion is a testament to the power of returning to one's roots.
“Fingers crossed I can continue the successful trend we had,” Sterling said. “I’m hoping they will continue to learn and lock in these new skills.”
Amateur Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for an amateur profile email Corrine Borton, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.
Hailey Brown
California competitor born into a life fulled with horses and shows
Text Courtney Borton Ament Photos Shane Rux
For Hailey Brown, life is measured in strides, rhythms and the quiet communication between a rider and a 1,200pound animal. At just 13 years old, the Escondido, California native has already spent 11 years in the saddle, transforming from a toddler on a pony named Polley into a decorated champion.
Born into the industry as the daughter of professional horse trainer Tonya Brown, Hailey’s playground was never a plastic slide or a sandbox; it was the barn. While other children were learning to ride bicycles, Hailey was learning the subtle shift of weight required to guide a horse through a complex trail pattern.
“My mom is a horse trainer, and I spend most of my time at the barn,” Hailey said.
It’s a lifestyle that requires grueling hours and unwavering discipline, yet for the Valley Center Middle School student, there is nowhere else she would rather be.
Hailey’s competitive journey began at the age of 4. Her debut took place at local California staples like Del Mar and The Silver Dollar circuit. Those early days were defined by foundational partners like Hot Spice Girl and her pony, Polley, who taught her the basics of balance and patience.
Her first taste of major success came in 2018 at the Level 1 Championship. Riding her sister Alexa’s horse, Corporate Credit, Hailey secured a sixth-place finish in Walk/Trot Western Pleasure. It was a modest start compared to the titles that would follow, but it served as the spark for a competitive fire.
A few years ago, her parents, Tonya and Tim, surprised her for her birthday with a new partner: Betty White Sock, a horse sired by VS Code Red. However, it was a mare named Cool Cruzen Lady, a 2014 bay roan mare by VS Flatline, out of Suddenly A Cool Lady, who truly defined Hailey’s trajectory.
“She helped me learn how to win and shape me into the rider I am today,” Hailey said of the horse that carried her to the highest echelons of the sport.
Together, they amassed a resume that most veteran riders would envy: an NSBA World Championship in Walk/Trot Trail, two Congress Championships in 11 & Under Trail and Western Pleasure, and an AQHA Level 2 Championship.
As she prepares to enter Valley Center High School as part of the Class of 2030, Hailey is embarking on a new competitive chapter with CM Kruzen For Kisses. The 2019 bay mare – sired by The Krymsun Kruzer and out of Huntin For Kisses was raised by Clay and Liz MacLeod.
This year, the duo will tackle Level 1 and 13 & Under Horsemanship and Hunt Seat Equitation.
While Hailey enjoys watching Western Pleasure for its “calm and relaxed” nature, her heart belongs to Trail.
“I love Trail because it is challenging and I love how it is always fun,” she said. The discipline requires a horse and rider to navigate a series of obstacles, including poles, gates and bridges, demanding precision and trust – qualities Hailey has spent over a decade perfecting.
Despite her success in the show pen, Hailey is far from a one-dimensional athlete. In a world where elite youth sports often demand total immersion, she maintains a remarkably diverse set of interests.
When she isn't at the barn or traveling to major shows like her favorite, the AQHA Youth World in Oklahoma City, Hailey is often found on the soccer field. Her competitive streak carries over to the turf, where she has already helped her teams win several tournaments. At school, she trades her spurs for drumsticks, participating in the Valley Center band and drumline program.
Her bond with her father, Tim, is often forged in the great outdoors. An avid hunter, Hailey counts killing her first cow elk as one of her proudest achievements outside of the equestrian world. The family’s adventurous spirit also extends to the water; while many know her for her poise in a show shirt and hat, Hailey is equally at home on a pair of waterskis or a wakeboard during family lake trips.
Even with a trophy room full of world and congress titles, Hailey’s motivation remains simple. She isn't chasing points or prestige as much as she is chasing the connection with her animals.
“I show because I love everything about it and I love my horses a lot,” she said.
Her hero remains her mother, who balances the roles of parent and trainer. It is a partnership built on a shared language of horsemanship that has seen Hailey through the highs of world championships and the daily grind of training.
As for the future, Hailey’s dreams are grounded in the life she already leads. Her dream vacation isn't a trip to a distant city or a luxury resort, but rather a simple getaway where she could ride her horses and take her dog to the beach.
For now, the focus remains on the next gate, the next pattern and the next stride with CM Kruzen For Kisses. With 11 years of experience already behind her and a high school career on the horizon, Hailey Brown is no longer just a “trainer's kid” – she is a force to be reckoned with in the arena.
Youth Profiles are part of InStride Edition’s editorial content. If you know someone who would make a good subject for a Youth profile email Corrine Borton, Editor, at: CorrineBorton@InStrideEdition.com.
Hailey Brown is pictured on the opposite page with Cool Cruzen Lady. Across the top (left to right) Hailey with ?; and with Cool Cruzen Lady at the 2024 Quarter Horse Congress. On this page Hailry is pictured (top) with Cool Cruzen Lady at the AQHA Youth World Show and enjoying the great outdoors.
VETERINARY MALPRACTICE by Katherine Jarve
Whether a claim will be successful depends upon the facts and circumstances of the individual case
Most horse owners have a veterinarian whom they trust and rely upon to take good care of their horses. Your “go-to” veterinarian is often responsible for routine wellness, pre-purchase exams, emergency treatment, and everything in between. But what happens when mistakes are made? Can a veterinarian be held legally responsible if his or her error causes damage or even the death of your horse? The answer will depend on the facts and circumstances of your individual case.
Veterinary malpractice refers to professional negligence by a veterinarian that results in harm to a horse or financial loss to its owner. As horses often represent significant emotional, athletic, and economic value, the consequences of veterinary mistakes can be substantial. Some common situations that may lead to veterinary malpractice include misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of conditions like colic or laminitis, surgical errors during procedures, improper medication or dosage, or improper pre-purchase exams that miss significant health issues. Each state varies on the laws for pursuing a veterinary malpractice claim. Generally, you will be required to prove the following:
(1)The veterinarian owed a duty of reasonable, professional care. If your veterinarian agrees to provide care for your horse, then he or she has the duty to provide such care in accordance with the accepted standards of veterinary medicine.
(4)You suffered economic damages as a result of the horse’s injury or death. Under the law, you are not entitled to “pain and suffering” damages for you or your horse in a veterinary malpractice case. Rather, you must show a sum of money lost as a result of the malpractice. Horses are considered property in the eyes of the law. Damages are typically limited to the fair market value of the horse and any related consequential damages (i.e., lost profits or the cost of special medication or feed). A qualified equine appraiser will be required to prove the horse’s value.
In today’s world, most veterinarians carry malpractice insurance. If you make a claim of veterinary malpractice, in all likelihood, the insurance company will vigorously defend the case. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pursue the case if you believe it has merit. But it does mean that you should do your homework. Talk to other veterinarians to find out their honest opinion about what happened. Realistically assess the damages you’ve suffered. Your horse might be more than just property in your eyes, but that is not the way the law sees it.
Veterinary malpractice refers to professional negligence by a veterinarian that results in harm to a horse or financial loss to its owner.
(2)The veterinarian breached or violated the duty of care. If the care that your veterinarian gives your horse falls below the accepted professional standard of care, then he or she has “breached” the duty owed to you. How do you prove this breach? In most cases, expert testimony of a similarly qualified veterinarian will be required and the expert will need to opine that your veterinarian acted negligently and in deviation of accepted standards of care. The expert will need to support his or her opinion with facts, data, and recognized equine medical literature. A bad outcome alone does not necessarily mean the veterinarian breached the standard of care.
(3)The veterinarian’s wrongful conduct caused the horse’s injury or death. This may seem obvious, but you must demonstrate that what the veterinarian did (or didn’t do) caused injury or death to the horse. In some instances, the connection is clear. For example, the veterinarian administers the wrong dosage of a sedative to a horse and the horse immediately dies. However, not all cases are that clear. What if in the above example, the horse is fine immediately after being administered the dose, but then dies 3 days later? In that instance, the owner may need to have a necropsy performed to show that there was a causal connection.
You have to determine whether or not the economic value of your horse has been diminished and by how much. In addition, be prepared for legal fees. Although most attorneys will accept a veterinary malpractice case on a contingency fee basis, legal fees are rarely considered an element of damages.
Finally, it is a good idea to carry insurance on your horse, including mortality coverage. Equine mortality coverage is akin to life insurance for horses. In the event that a veterinarian makes a mistake and your horse dies, then you may be able to make a claim against your insurance policy.
Katherine Jarve is a partner at the Marlton, New Jersey law firm of Jarve Kaplan Granato Starr, LLC. She is licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and maintains a practice in personal injury and civil litigation, including equine related issues. Katherine spent her childhood competing on the national AQHA show circuit. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. If you have a specific legal question or problem, consult with an experienced equine law attorney. Questions, comments or suggestions can be e-mailed to kjarve@nj-triallawyers.com.
VACCINATIONS by Jackie Bellamy-Zions
Situations change from year to year and so should you plan for your horse’s shots
Your horse’s vaccination plan shouldn’t be built on what you did last year. Risk isn’t static and neither is your horse’s life.
New horses arrive at barns. Old ones move on. Show schedules change. Boarding arrangements shift. Even climate patterns influence disease risk. Vaccination decisions made in isolation, or out of habit, can quickly become outdated. A thoughtful vaccination program recognizes that risk evolves, and staying current means regular reassessment.
Learn how to build a vaccination plan that adapts to your horse’s lifestyle during Equine Guelph’s March Vaccination Education Month with the FREE Vaccination Equi-planner (TheHorsePortal.ca/VaccinationTool), and sign up for Equine Guelph’s on-demand Sickness Prevention in Horses online course – both kindly sponsored by Zoetis.
This innovative tool provides a starting point to discuss a comprehensive vaccination schedule with your veterinarian that will be tailored to each horse’s unique needs, aiming for optimal health and performance.
Vaccination protects more than one horse
Lifestyle-based planning can guide smarter vaccination conversations with your veterinarian.
Informed owners make better healthcare decisions
Vaccination shouldn’t feel confusing or like something you blindly check off once a year.
When owners understand why certain vaccines are recommended, when boosters are needed, and how lifestyle affects risk, they’re better equipped to have meaningful conversations with their vet and to advocate for their horse’s health.
Good vaccination decisions start with good education.
“Understanding the risks your horses face is essential to making informed decisions,” says Tamara Quaschnick, DVM,
When owners understand why certain vaccines are recommended, when boosters are needed, and how lifestyle affects risk, they’re better equipped to have meaningful conversations with their vet and to advocate for their horse’s health.
Vaccination is both an individual and a community decision.
While vaccines help protect your horse from serious disease, they also reduce the spread of infectious agents within barns, lessons programs, boarding facilities, and show grounds. One under-vaccinated horse can unknowingly raise risk for many others—especially youngsters, seniors, or immune-compromised horses.
Vaccinating isn’t just about compliance; it’s about collective responsibility within the equine community. Vaccinations can let owners rest easy that their horses are safe while providing social interaction with other horses.
Discover how informed vaccination choices can support herd health using Equine Guelph’s Vaccination Equi-planner.
Core vaccines aren’t the whole story
Core vaccines are essential, but they’re only the starting point.
Geography, travel, discipline, frequency of horse-to-horse contact, and local disease trends all influence which additional vaccines may be appropriate. Two horses living in the same province might still need very different vaccination strategies.
The question isn’t “What does everyone else do?” It’s: What does your horse need, right now?
Veterinary Services Manager, Zoetis. “When one considers the serious implications of preventable viral diseases like West Nile, sleeping sickness, and rabies, deciding to vaccinate your horse against them is one of the easiest decisions you can make as a horse owner! Vaccination against core diseases can not only save your horse’s life, but it can save them from suffering through horrible disease complexes, and save you from the burden of intensive medical care costs. Working with your veterinary care team to incorporate coverage against core and risk-based diseases is a critical part of maintaining your horse’s wellness.”
Vaccinations should not be thought of as a luxury, or costcutting measure. Instead, they should be considered a baseline/non-negotiable when thinking about the welfare of the horse that can save thousands of dollars, reduce down time and protect good health.
Jackie Bellamy-Zions is a member of the Communications & Administration Team at the University of Guelph in Canada. For further information, visit www.equineguelph.ca. You can email Jackie directly at: english_coach@yahoo.ca.
ASSOCIATIONS
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS (IN) ABRA NEWS
The American Buckskin Registry Association (ABRA) Youth College Scholarship Program is now accepting applications from eligible ABRA youth who are pursuing a degree at an accredited college or university. This program awards a one-time $500 scholarship to a qualifying applicant and reflects ABRA’s ongoing commitment to education and youth development.
If you are an ABRA youth member preparing for college, or know someone who is, now is the time to apply.
The ABRA Youth College Scholarship Program provides a one-time $500 scholarship to an ABRA youth member who is working toward a college or university degree. Applications are carefully reviewed by the ABRA Scholarship Committee to ensure all eligibility requirements are met.
This program supports youth as they take the next step in their educational journey while continuing to represent the values of ABRA.
To apply for the ABRA Youth College Scholarship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Be in their senior year of high school
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or 3.8 on a 6.0 scale
• Have at least two consecutive years of ABRA membership
• Be a current ABRA member in good standing
• Submit a copy of their current ABRA membership card with the application
Eligible ABRA youth are encouraged to review the full application requirements at www.americanbuckskin.com/youth-programs-2 and submit their materials before the June 1 deadline.
Supporters can help grow the ABRA Youth College Scholarship Program by donating to ABRA’s youth education initiatives. Donations directly support scholarships and help ensure ABRA can continue investing in the future of its youth members.
BIG PAYOUTS
APHA OFFERS $118,500 FOR RANCH HORSES AT APHA WORLD SHOW
Ranch horses will ride for $118,500 added at the 2026 APHA World Championship Show, June 29–July 4 in Fort Worth, Texas. Events include APHA world championships for Paint Horses, as well as all-breed International Ranch Horse Association events. The 2026 ranch events feature:
IRHA Ranch Horse Triple Crown Challenge (Sponsored by IRHA: All-Breed | Open & Non-Pro Divisions; $40,000 added, split equally between all six Open/Non-Pro classes; Plus, bonus payouts for Triple Crown Challenge Champions (Open, Non-Pro & Youth) who win all three classes in their respective division
There will be a $5,000 bonus payout for Triple Crown Challenge Open Champion; $5,000 bonus payout for Triple Crown Challenge Non-Pro Champion; $2,500 bonus scholarship for Triple Crown Challenge Youth Champion (based on the three IRHA Youth World Championship Classes)
International Ranch Horse Association Ranch Horse Futurity (Sponsored by IRHA): All-Breed | Open & Non-Pro Divisions;
$30,000 added - including an Open 3-Year-Old Ranch Riding Futurity: $15,000 added and a Non-Pro 3-Year-Old Ranch Riding Futurity: $15,000 added
International Ranch Horse Association All-Breed World Championships (Sponsored by IRHA):Open Ranch Riding: $1,000 added; Open Ranch Rail: $1,000 added; Open Ranch Trail: $1,000 added; Non-Pro Ranch Riding: $1,000 added; Non-Pro Ranch Rail: $1,000 added; Non-Pro Ranch Trail: $1,000 added; Youth Ranch Riding: $1,000 added; Youth Ranch Rail: $1,000 added; Youth Ranch Trail: $1,000 added For details visit www.apha.com.
BUZZ
ON THE WEB
(www.instrideedition.com)
(IN) LIFE
Florida AQHA and NSBA Amateur competitor Kristen Holmes and her husband, Jake, announced the birth of their first child, a daughter, on March 2. The new arrival, named Amelia Sutton Holmes, weighed 5 pounds, 11 ounces and was 18 inches at birth.
(IN) WORK
The National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) recently announced the appointment of new judges. The newest NSBA International approved judges include: Andrea Momesso, Oderzo (TV), Italy; Anna-Alisa Samse, Hannover, Germany; Christina Otterbach Heckenbach, Germany; Elodie MangeotReed, Mittersheim, France; Francois Guyot, St Hiaire De Brethmas, France; and Martina Sonzogno Venelia - Mestre, Italy. In addition, the NSBA Judges Committee has also approved the following with Category 1 status: Chris Holbin of Vero Beach, Florida and Colton Smith of Kankakee, Illinois. Those who have earned designation as Category 1 judges may judge NSBA-approved shows with $10,000 or more in added money.
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EAST, WEST COAST CHAMPIONSHIPS WINNERS WILL EARN $2,500 AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE AWARDS ADDED TO USHJA AMATEUR HUNTER CHAMPIONSHIPS
The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is introducing the American Quarter Horse High-Score Award at the 2026 United States Hunter Jumper Association Amateur Hunter Championships. Presented in partnership with Judy Canfield Power and Rick and Lori Bucholz, the award will recognize the highest-scoring American Quarter Horses at both the East and West Coast Championships with a $2,500 cash award.
while also inspiring USHJA members who currently compete on Quarter Horses to aim for this recognition. It’s about building bridges and celebrating the horses that can confidently compete on both stages.”
Lifetime APHA member and former Distinguished Service Award winner Peggy Gilbert passed away on Feb. 20, at the age of 89. Gilbert was instrumental in developing the first multi-judged APHA show, with support of Colin Beal in Arizona. She hosted clinics and taught lessons at her Colorado-based facility and served as a 4-H leader for about two decades. In 1992, Peggy was honored as Horseman of the Year by the Colorado Horsemen’s Council.
The American Quarter Horse is well known as the most versatile breed on Earth,” said AQHA Chief Executive Officer David Dellin. “In a continuation of showcasing that versatility, we are proud to recognize the incredible Quarter Horses competing successfully in competitions like the USHJA Amateur Hunter Championships and to celebrate the strength of these horse-and-rider partnerships on a national stage.”
The USHJA Amateur Hunter Championships give adult amateur riders a national spotlight and a true championship experience. Competition includes multiple phases that test consistency, style and performance, with overall champions determined by combined scores. The American Quarter Horse High-Score Award will be presented to the highest overall-scoring American Quarter Horse at each championship. Horses must be registered with AQHA and complete the designated award form during competition to be eligible.
“We are excited to bring something forward that highlights the American Quarter Horse within this part of the industry,” said AQHA Professional Horsewoman Lainie DeBoer, chairman of the AQHA Hunter Task Force. “Our hope is that this award encourages AQHA members to step into the USHJA arena and qualify,
The 2026 East Coast Championship is June 24-28 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, during the USHJA Amateur Festival East, with a qualifying period of August 3, 2025, through May 8, 2026. The West Coast Championship is October 28 – November 1, 2026, at Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California, during National Sunshine Series I, with a qualifying period of September 15, 2025, through September 16, 2026. Amateur riders qualify through United States Equestrian Federation-licensed competitions by earning top placings in their respective hunter divisions during the qualifying period.
The addition of the American Quarter Horse High-Score Award reflects AQHA’s continued commitment to celebrating the breed’s growing presence in open hunter competition. Quarter Horses are proving themselves as reliable, athletic and competitive partners for adult amateurs across the country. Through this partnership with Judy Canfield Power and Rick and Lori Bucholz, AQHA aims to elevate recognition of the American Quarter Horse within the broader hunter community and celebrate the riders who proudly choose them on one of the sport’s most respected stages.
For more information about the USHJA Amateur Hunter Championships and the American Quarter Horse High-Score Award, visit www.ushja.org/amateurhunterchampionships.
