AQHA Youth World Special Mention #1- The Australian Ladies

By: Brittany Bevis

With 2,165 entries competing at the 2015 AQHA World Show, consisting of 709 competitors and 1,024 horses, there is quite a bit of talent in one location here in Oklahoma City. However, with only 35 World Champion titles up for grabs, it only takes a bit of simple math to realize that not every competitor will be heading home with a coveted golden globe.

However, just because a rider might not make it to the winner’s circle that doesn’t mean their accomplishments are any less important, any less hard-earned, or any less exciting. Therefore, we have decided to create a Special Mention Award to honor a few competitors who achieved excellence here at the Youth World.

AQHA Youth World Special Mention #1-

The Australian Contingent: Three lovely ladies came all the way from Australia to compete here at the Youth World Show. Whether they competed with their own horses or utilized a show lease, each one of these ladies deserves commendation for making it back to a very tough Western Pleasure Finals and placing in the top 16 in the country.

Abbey Rawlings rode her horse, A Certain Illusion, to place fifth overall in the class. She was also the 13 and under winner. This pair competes under the guidance of Jay and Kristy Starnes. Courtney Holden showed A Good N Hot Machine to place eighth. This team competes under the guidance of Dave Archer. Finally, Ruby Lang showed A Sudden Echo to place 16th. She relied on the guidance of Saul and Farley Sliss to prepare for the Youth World Show this year.

Congratulations Abbey, Courtney, and Ruby!