| A wide array of Pinto horses, ponies and miniatures vied to be champions at the 2013 Pinto World Championship, held June 10-22. Exhibitors and their equines traveled far and wide to earn a multitude of prizes, awards and friendships.
Breaking records this year, Tulsa’s Built Ford Tough Livestock Complex at Expo Square played host for a tough competition for over 2,200 Pintos and 33,000 judged class entries from 46 states and three countries. Produced by the Pinto Horse Association of America Inc., the Pinto World Championship showcased many disciplines including jumping, reining, driving, pleasure and halter.
Belt buckles by Gist Silversmiths and rosette ribbons were just the beginning of the approximate $300,000 in prizes awarded during the 13-day show. High point awards varied from Dale Chavez custom trophy saddles, Jerald Sulky carts, Kensington protective products and jackets from Tioga Territory.
“Thanks to our generous Corporate Partners, we were able to give great prizes to many of our participating Pintos this year,” said Darrell Bilke, PtHA Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “We could not have put this show on with their support.”
The Pinto family always has a heart for philanthropy. This year the PWC included several events that support their affections for charity work, including the Charity Walk/Trot class in which all prize money goes to the charity of the winner’s choice. Additionally, the Pink Your Pinto parade, which supports the Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Institute, is always an emotional tribute.
The Challenged Rider’s Leadline class, sponsored by Ford Farms, gives challenged riders a chance to win a World Champion buckle in front of their family and friends. A turnout of 22 proud World Champions walked away with this year’s shiniest buckle from Gist Silversmiths.
Other evening competitions kept spectators entertained as Pintos competed for prestigious titles. The Invitational Celebrity Walk/Trot was a great opportunity to see several local, state and national dignitaries compete against each other on horseback. In addition to the celebrities, the youth, amateur and open versatility events showcased Pintos at their best.
Proving the Pinto World Championship isn’t all about equine competition, many special family-friendly activities were held during the two weeks in Tulsa. These included the PWC Welcome Party with free food and drinks, the Youth and Amateur Ice Cream Social, the PWC Dog Show and the Parade of Heroes, which allowed active military, veterans and their families to participate in the world show and receive due recognition for their continuous dedication to our country.
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