One Horse Trainer’s Act of Kindness- 2015 AjPHA Youth World

EC Blog by: George Ready

I can’t pass up the opportunity to relate a story involving APHA horse trainer Wade Parks.

A little boy from Idaho came to the AjPHA Youth World with his grandmother, mother, and brother. They did it completely on their own and came on a no-frills budget. This boy (approximately age 11) showed in almost every class he could go in from Speed to Halter to Western Pleasure and everything in between. I was proud to give him a placement ribbon and a couple of finalist ribbons.

I learned from independent sources that Wade Parks had taken this kid under his wing, helped prep him for classes, and helped him practice throughout the long show. Wade did this gratis and volunteer, while certainly being worn out from prepping the horses of his regular client family. He was even on the rail in the stands when the child was showing to coach and encourage!

While there is no doubt in my mind that Wade would not tell this story himself, I want to give him a shout out for being the epitome and perfect representation of what we all should be in the Paint industry when it comes to extending a helping hand and reaching out to others!

Someone just like Wade treated [my son] Banks this same way 16 years ago. People like this are the reason we and many others came to Paints. Thank you Wade Parks! You are a hero to this little boy and to many others for the example you set for us all to aspire to!

EC Addition: And this wasn’t an isolated act of kindness. The following message was posted on Parks’ Facebook page shortly after the conclusion of the show.  

“Wade, I wanted to thank you for your kindness at the World Show. You made my ‘little reiner girl’ smile so much with your kind supportive conversations. It’s always fun to hear about all-around trainers and riders who have Reining in their lives.

Also, I was sitting by you in the 14-18 Western Pleasure, and you were so calming and helpful to the exhibitor who was having a moment of panic/stress. While helping her, you had to lose focus of your own exhibitor. Kudos to you Wade.

We look forward to seeing you down the road. Congrats as well to you and Carly on your awesome World Show. Your kids and horses were great.”

– Michelle Preston

Do you have something to say? A wonderful story to share? If so, the EC Blog section of EquineChronicle.com is the place to voice your opinions. E-mail b.bevis@equinechronicle.com today to find out more.