Kristen Galyean Wins AQHA World Amateur Western Pleasure and Western Riding Back to Back

By: Brittany Bevis

Kristen Galyean has had a banner day here at the 2020 AQHA World Championship Show scoring two World Championship titles back to back. First, she piloted KM Suddenly So Easy to win Amateur Western Pleasure in their maiden debut as a team. Next, she rode VS Lady In Red to win Amateur Western Riding in the very next class.

Kristen admits that it was a bit nerve-racking to show “Penelope” for the first time at the World Show, but she performed beautifully. “It was pretty nerve-racking, because of the unknown and not knowing what to expect until you go out there under the bright lights and you get to know them in the arena,” she says. “So to make our debut here was a little nerve-racking for me, but she showed like a dream.”

“I’ve loved her from day one and never though I’d have the opportunity to own her. I enjoy raising babies. It’s my favorite thing, and I thought, if I could have any horse out there, she would be the most amazing cross on both of my stallions. My family and I made the decision together. My brother and sister-in-law wanted to get into the horse business and enjoy it with us. My mom and dad partnered up and bought Penelope. It will be a new endeavor and something to enjoy together.”

Kristen has showed “Lady” for some time now. The mare has titles in Level 2 Junior and Senior Western Riding but never in this particular class. “This is definitely a first and a very exciting accomplishment.”

“Today took a bit of strategic planning, but we made it work. When I had Lucy, [Vital Signs Are Good] we did back to back finals like this. When it was on the same horse, it was a little bit easier. Changing horses was a little tricky, but we made it work. Aaron Moses trains Lady and Anthony Montes has been helping and will show her here in Western Riding. Then, Aaron has Penelope, but we just got her from Casey Willis, so he will show her in Senior Western Pleasure. It’s been a team effort.”

Reserve in Amateur Western Riding was Samantha Foust with Cool Cruzen Lady. Third was Deanna Green with Beez In The Trap. Fourth was Angela Wade with A Soxy Dream. Fifth was Emma Edwards with This Is Why I’m Here. Reserve in Amateur Western Pleasure was Hillary Roberts with Johnnie On The Spot. Third was Clay Arrington with Made In The Dark. Fourth was Sarah Nimigan with Best Brew At The Bar. Fifth was Nancy Wilkerson Ditty with Forever Kool.