2009 NWAHJA Horse of the Year

Rachelle and Tricks Up My Sleeve (Amateur of the Year)

I first entered the hunter show ring in New Mexico and showed hunters and equitation in NM, AZ, and CO on the "A" circuit. I then successfully transitioned to the jumper ring and predominantly showed in the jumper and equitation divisions until 2001. Following 2001, I showed on the NM Quarter Horse (NMQHA) and Buckskin (NMBHA) circuits. I ended my career as a junior with 3 world championships and 3 reserve world championships at the American Buckskin Horse Association World Show. I continued training several young Paint and Quarter Horses while I attended the UA. I felt something was missing from my life with horses, so I once again transitioned back into the hunter/jumper ring. Following the birth of twin daughters in 2007 and the achievement of a B.S. in Animal Sciences, Magna Cum Laude in 2008, I began training under the guidance of Heather Swope in the spring of 2009. My passion is training horses and bringing along green horses. I try to juggle time spent in the saddle, time chasing toddlers in opposite directions, and time in the office, (where I act as book keeper for my husband's companies, Yates Excavation, LLC and Aquatic Pools, LLC). I have enjoyed the friendly atmosphere of the NWAHJA shows and the excitement of foxhunting, and I look forward to continuing to get to know everyone in the area.

Duello (Schooling Horse of the Year)

Duello is an amazing horse. I have ridden him for three years and have shown him for two. Duello aka Riley at LEC, is very sweet. He will come to you in the pasture. One of my favorite moments with him was is when I went out to the pasture and he trotted up to me. He brought his nose over to the halter. After I caught him, I couldn’t get him out of the pasture fast enough. It was like he was begging me to ride him. No other horse had done that for me before. He is special because he teaches rider to hold on and take control of the ride. He has taught me to relax on horses because before I rode him I rode a tiny pony. He teaches you that you have to be a rider and not a passenger. Although he can be stubborn at times, he is a compassionate boy with the need to please you. Riley can be ridden by riders just starting to lounge line up to 3’ jumpers. He can take you far by helping you, not just by giving it to you. Duelo ca make any person a rider.

Submitted by Haley Hogue, Legends Equestrian Center

Duello aka “Riley”

What makes a show horse stand out from the rest? Is it in attitude, heart, or effort? Duello has all that, and more. He has a certain style about him that says, “Look at me…I’m a champion!” He has always tried to please me, Haley, the judge and spectators. He always gives me a hundred percent, even if he doesn’t need to. During shows, Riley shows his range. He can go from pleasure to two foot in one day. At home, he is playful, and spunky. He was fun to ride this show season; I could feel his energy wanting to be the best, better than anyone else, that is. It’s not always an easy ride, but Riley will lead you to victory.

Submitted by Kerbie Karr, Legend Equestrian Center

Haley Hogue (Child on a Horse)

What Riding Means to Me

I love riding. When I was seven, in Florida, I loved horses and wanted to learn how to ride. About six months later I moved to Arkansas. I started tumbling, but still wanted to go for a riding career. Later I came across Legends Equestrian Center. My first session was a birthday present and from then on I was attached to the sport. To me, riding is building a lifelong partnership with your horse. It means learning discipline and expanding the mind. I do horseback riding for the rush of knowing you can perform excellence in a way that others cannot. The way we jump and ride is a whole different form of sport that not all people take a chance to try. Showing is being able to prove talent and compete against others for the chance to say, “I can do THIS well.” I love to show because it gives other barns a chance to meet each other and share ideas. Also they can help one another to achieve greatness in the sport. Showing isn’t for the ribbons (but those are nice too), it is for the learning experience to understand what you need to work on. We may have many falls, but all lead to great achievements from them. I still ride, after five yea rsfor the love and the bond of the horse.

Abby Stearman (Child on a Pony)

Savannabelle (Pony of the Year)

I am Abby Stearman and 2009 was my first year competing with Savannabelle. I am 11 years old and I enjoy playing softball as well as spending time with my family. I help my dad work cattle on his farm and also enjoy keeping up with my friends on Facebook. I am excited about 2010 as I will be able to move up to the 2'6" divisions as well as compete in the NWAHJA Medal and the HJEO and Go Mini Medal in Oklahoma. I will see you all soon!! Abby