“It’s critically important to the future of the horse community to focus on welcoming new participants,” Time to Ride Spokesperson Patti Colbert said. “The Challenge gives rewards and recognition to hardworking horse professionals who are doing the valuable work of teaching new people the very basics and giving them a path to grow into lifelong equestrians.”

Four Paints ended up in the Top 10 of the prestigious Open Classic Finals with impressive scores exceeding 226.5. According to show management, approximately one-third of all horses showing this year were Paint-bred, most of which were already registered through APHA.

Horses inducted in the Hall of Fame were the famed Olympic champion, Nautical, and the legendary AQHA/PHBA stallion, Mr. Yella Fella. Attendees were honored to have Debbie Jones speak of her mother’s early training days of Nautical and Gary and Linda Gordon who owned Mr. Yella Fella.

Some of the most anticipated events at this innovative show are the scheduled, free seminars slated to focus on topics like judging, training, breeding, sports medicine, shoeing and nutrition, conducted by experts like NRHA Professional and 4-Million Dollar rider, Andrea Fappani; NRHA Judges’ Committee Chairman, Jody Brainard, and top veterinarian and equine athlete expert, Dr. Khris Crowe.