A Gold Globe for Gracelyn Galyean and Waffle House
One might say “Waffle House” has her own fan club. The 2020 bay mare by The Born Legacy and out of BestSeatNTheHouse (by RL Best of Sudden) has made a splash in her career as one of the most decorated Western Pleasure horses in the industry.
When the Glover Galyean Partnership purchased “Waffles” from the Wood family last year, she became part of the Galyean family for daughters Gracelyn and Aislynn. The Galyean family also wished to continue her legacy, and the VS legacy, by crossing her to VS Phantom Code among others from the VS Dispersal Sale.
At the time, Kristen Galyean explained, “Her natural poise, relaxed head and neck, forward ears, and graceful self-carriage are qualities that remind me of the legendary Vital Signs Are Good. To me, Waffle House epitomizes what a great pleasure horse should be—she truly enjoys her job, and that’s what drew me to her.”
However, like any horse, multiple world champion or not, she was a new horse for the girls, but on Saturday at the 2025 AQHYA World Championship Show, Gracelyn Galyean demonstrated the pair had formed an undeniable bond.
The duo earned a Gold Globe in the Performance Arena in the L2 Western Pleasure 13 & Under in a deep class of competition, and after being crowned World Champions, Gracelyn explains that it was a matter of growing together.
“I’m just so proud of her because we grew so much together, and bonded so fast together, it was so amazing. I love her so much,” she shares.
She says simply spending time with Waffles, and practicing as much as she could with help from Aaron Moses, contributed to their connection. “I tried to get her to the best she could be while getting myself to my best. Aaron has helped me a lot to learn how to slow her down when she speeds up, and how to look forward to make sure she’s trotting to the best of her ability.”
Gracelyn adds that it was a little bit intimidating to take the reins of a horse with her own fan club, but most importantly, “It was amazing. I also want to thank Leigh Berryhill and Aaron Moses so much because I wouldn’t have won this if I didn’t have them by my side.”
Image credit: Shane Rux Photography, courtesy of AQHA.
See results through tenth place courtesy of AQHA:
WESTERN PLEASURE 13 & UNDER – LEVEL 2 – AQHA
View complete results:
