Emma Brown and Some Hot Potential Win First Congress Championship in 15-18 Trail With HUGE Score of 239.5

By: Brittany Bevis

Emma Brown achieved a lifelong goal this afternoon at the 2017 All American Quarter Horse Congress. She rode Some Hot Potential to win the 15-18 Trail with a huge score of a 239.5. 18-year-old Emma and her beloved, 10-year-old gelding, “Brett,” currently compete under the guidance of Judd and Jennifer Paul.

“He’s my best friend and my once in a lifetime horse, and I can’t imagine doing this with any other horse!” she exclaims. “I was really late in the draw, and a 228 was leading it when I came in, so I thought all I want is a 228 1/2. Then, I got up at the cone, and he was right there with me. I walked into the box and during that first spin, I just knew. He showed his butt off the whole time. He never tried to steer me wrong or anticipate anything.”

“Then, when I got into the chute, I thought, ‘Oh, this is good. I can’t mess this up!’ Then, I came out and everyone was cheering really loudly. I knew it was good, but I didn’t know it was that good!’

The always humble Emma is so appreciative and thankful to her trainers for teaching her more and more every year they spend together. She’s been with the Pauls since she was just ten years old.

“Brett is the first really good Trail horse I’ve ever had, and he has taught me so much. I wouldn’t be the rider I am without him or them. They’re amazing. They’ve taught me more each year. Each year, we pick something new to work on. This year, it was getting the correct foot every time in my trot obstacles. I love that they do that. They have us pick goals every year, and this was one of my goals!”

In addition to nailing the difficult, diamond obstacle trot, Emma particularly enjoyed her spin in the box and the last set of walk overs, which can often be a challenge for riders. “I was really worried about the diamond trot. I got two different strides there, but it ended up looking and feeling really pretty, so I was very happy with that. Also, I thought my last walks were good. I was very nervous about those during the pattern, because it was the last obstacle, and I needed to stay focused and keep him focused all the way out of the pen.”

Coming up next, Emma will compete in 15-18 Horsemanship later today and 15-18 Western Pleasure.

The Reserve Champion was Cameron Crenwelge with Too Hot To Frisk. Third was Mcauley Ross with A Timely Version. Fourth was Cori Cansdale with Promotional Asset. Fifth was Sabrina Janis with Blazin Onthe Horizon.