The last time Kristen competed here in the Jim Norick Arena at the World Show was ten years ago when she was named the World Champion with Vital Signs Are Good. Today, she was named the World Champion in Amateur Western Pleasure on VS Lady In Red, a granddaughter of her beloved “Lucy,” who has since passed.

In the next class, Yearling Geldings, Ted Turner led Big Time Addiction to win for Amanda Wallinger-Rowan. We had the chance to chat with Amanda earlier in the week following her win in Amateur Yearling Geldings with her double registered AQHA/APHA gelding, Big Time Addiction.

“Western Riding is forward and flowing, so I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to mentally switch gears. But, I’m proud of Clyde, and I’m proud of myself.”

Stretch has a unique condition where his inability to break down sugars and starches in his food causes a build up in his muscles, which causes debilitating stomach cramps. With careful management, Michelle and trainers, Robin and Jenny Frid, have been managing the condition.

After the Halter classes, the announcement was made that Steve and Kathy Headley have committed to donate $50,000 over the next three years. Gary and Linda Gordon have committed to donate $50,000 over the next three years. Terry and Tammy Bradshaw have committed to donate $51,000 over the next three years. That’s a whopping total of $453,000!

“As far as a practice strategy, it’s the same as with any veteran horse. Our strategy was to do the poles enough to be confident and keep him in a good mental state throughout the show. We wanted to keep him happy and his legs fresh.”

“Did you see the class? That class was amazing. A lot of times, you have a really good horse, but then you look around and there are 15 really good horses. So, to be able to show and come out that good is kind of amazing.”