He is a tireless supporter, your toughest critic, a constant source of applause, your truck and trailer driver. He is your show photographer, a faithful groom, your horse wrangler. He provides a shoulder to cry on and a high five when you’re in the winner’s circle. He is a special breed, a horse show dad.

Most every equestrian can agree – they wouldn’t be where they are today without the encouragement from key people in their lives. This Father’s Day, it’s time to #ShowDadLove, honoring the men who support equestrians through all of their accomplishments.

In addition to volunteering their time, AQHA Executive Vice President Craig Huffhines also presented Amarillo Habitat for Humanity a check for $1,000 to continue support of Amarillo Habitat for Humanity in the local community.

Many of our readers will remember a story we reported on back in January of 2016 that featured a then 8-year-old Addy Kenley, who’d earned the moniker, “The Pony Trainer,” for her ability to rehabilitate kill-pen ponies, retrain them, and give them new lives in the homes of loving children.

The 2005 Economic Impact Study established that the horse industry in all its segments, including racing, showing, and recreation, had a $39 billion effect on the US economy, involved more than 4 million Americans and 9.2 million horses, and supported 1.4 million full-time jobs.

Three AQHA horse trainers, John Boxell, Blake Britton, and Brice Howell, traded in their boots and spurs for helmets and carts to participate in the IQHA Night At The Races event.