A Spot for the Future – $8,750 Awarded in Scholarships at the 2025 Appaloosa Youth World Championship Show
All professional photos courtesy of Becky Ruehle: Ruehle Photographix.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – A Spot For The Future proudly announces the awarding of $8,750 in scholarships during the 2025 Appaloosa Youth World Championship Show, continuing its mission to support and inspire the next generation of Appaloosa horse enthusiasts and equine industry leaders.
Now in its second year, the “A Spot For The Future – Appaloosa Youth Scholarship Program” once again partnered with the Appaloosa Horse Club to provide meaningful financial support to youth members through academic scholarships. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to the future of the Appaloosa breed, the equine community, and the development of strong, capable young leaders.
Scholarship Highlights
Youth World Championship Show Scholarships:
A total of 16 scholarships, $500 each, were awarded by random draw among pre-entries in eight event categories. Each category had two recipients:
- Cattle: Peyton Chwala, Haven Tomalis
- Games: Harper Hein, McKayla Schlepp
- Halter: Austin Shrout, Jasper Demuth
- Hunter: Emma Johnson, Berkley Riebe
- Ranch: Carley Kleier, June Buehler
- Showmanship: Hannah Forrester, Simran Krishnamurthy
- Trail: Izzie George, Lexie Eisenmenger
- Western: Grace Clark, Ava Fedak
Smile Like Steve Memorial Scholarship:
In late August 2024, the Appaloosa Horse Club and broader equine community lost a cherished friend, devoted supporter, youth advocate, and lifelong ambassador for the breed—Steve Bennett.
Steve often quoted Winston Churchill, saying, “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” And anyone who knew him would agree—Steve greeted every person with a smile and was always willing to lend a hand wherever he was needed.
In his honor, friends of Steve came together to ensure his legacy of kindness, service, and love for the Appaloosa horse lives on. Beginning this year, and at every Appaloosa Youth World Show moving forward, a $250 scholarship will be awarded to one youth member.
Colton Davis is the winner of the Smile Like Steve Scholarship.
The 2025 recipient is Colton Davis. This year’s World Championship show was Colton’s very first horse show—making it not just a debut, but the beginning of a journey. In true Steve fashion, it’s sure to be a moment he’ll never forget.
Youth Engagement Fundraiser – The Bucket Challenge
Adding energy and creativity to this year’s event, the Bucket Challenge Fundraiser returned with three youth teams rallying support through in-person and online donations. Teams competed to raise funds for future scholarships, collecting nearly $2,000.
Team Triple Threat
This year’s champions were Team Triple Threat—made up of Jed Demuth, Jasper Demuth, and Austin Shrout, who share the same birthday (though not the same zip code or genetics) and claimed the title with a fun-loving spirit and fierce dedication. Each team member received $166.66 toward their own scholarship accounts.
Continuing the Mission
As the 2025 Youth World Show comes to a close, A Spot For The Future sets its sights on sustaining and growing this impactful program. The organization remains committed to investing in young Appaloosa enthusiasts and encourages ongoing support from the community.
To donate or get involved, please contact:
Jordan Kelly, President
📞 319-404-1118
📧 scholarships@aspotforthefuture.com
🌐 www.aspotforthefuture.com
About A Spot For The Future
A Spot For The Future is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Appaloosa youth through scholarships, mentorship, and leadership development. The organization is committed to preserving the Appaloosa breed and preparing youth to become successful contributors to the equine industry and beyond.
