Gale Little wins 2026 Don Manuello Ring Steward Award

By Jessica Hein, PHJ News:

North Carolina-based ring steward Gale Little joins a prestigious circle of honor this year as the 2026 Don Manuello Ring Steward Award winner. She’ll be honored June 25, 2026, at the APHA Hall of Fame & Awards Ceremony, taking place in Fort Worth, Texas.

“Gale Little is the very embodiment of what the Don Manuello Ring Steward of the Year Award represents,” Director of Judges & Professional Horseman Sandy Jirkovsky said. “With an ever-present smile and an unwaveringly positive spirit, Gale lifts everyone around her and sets the standard for dedication, kindness and professionalism. It’s rare to meet someone who truly never seems to have a bad day—and even rarer to see that attitude inspire so many others. Gale is not just deserving of this honor; she defines it.”

Gale Little: Professionalism in a Package

Gale is a 29-year veteran ring steward, and she’s worked various world championship shows every year of her professional career. They include the APHA World Championship Show and APHA/WCHA Halter Million, along with the AQHA Youth World Championship, AQHA World Championship Shows, AQHA Level 1 Shows, Orange Blossom and Sudden Impulse shows, Texas Classic and more.

“I am deeply grateful for the honor of receiving the Don Manuelo Ring Steward Award,” she said. “It is heartwarming to receive an award for a job that I take so much pride in doing. After almost 30 years, I still enjoy being a ring steward as much as I did the first day I started. My fondest memory remains the same: I love watching the talented riders enjoy showing their amazing horses and understanding all the preparation that has gone into each time they show. The lifelong friendships that I have made along the way are irreplaceable and cherished, as well. Thank you to the American Paint Horse Association for this most prestigious award.”

Honoring Greatness

Gale 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 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, Professional Horseman of the Year and more.

2026 APHA Hall of Fame & Awards Celebration

June 25, 2026
Round Up Inn, Will Rogers Memorial Center
Fort Worth, Texas

Save the date—tickets will be available soon!

Event Details: Email Jennifer Crites at jcrites@apha.com