Sandy Jirkovsky appointed as APHA Director of Judges & Professional Horsemen

By Jessica Hein, PHJ News

The American Paint Horse Association is proud to announce the appointment of Sandy Jirkovsky as its new director of judges and professional horsemen. Jirkovsky, a highly respected and accomplished professional in the equine industry, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

Most recently, Jirkovsky served as APHA’s director of Youth and Amateur activities; Jirkovsky will continue to assist with those programs until that role is filled. Jirkovsky grew up in the horse industry and has been a professional trainer and coach since 1975. She has been a carded judge with APHA, AQHA, ApHC, NRHA, NRCHA and NSBA for over 30 years. A popular instructor at judging seminars and clinics around the world, Jirkovsky has a passion for teaching and judging. She previously served on APHA’s Board of Directors, as well.

Pursuit of Excellence

In her capacity as director of judges and professional horsemen, Jirkovsky will play a pivotal role in overseeing the judging standards and practices for APHA-sanctioned events. She will work closely with the association’s leadership and the broader equine community to ensure the highest level of judging excellence in all events involving American Paint Horses. Furthermore, she will enhance the Markel/APHA Professional Horseman’s program and serve as staff liaison to the judges and professional horsemen advisory committees, among other duties.

“Sandy Jirkovsky’s appointment is a step forward for the American Paint Horse Association,” APHA Chief Executive Officer David Dellin said. “Her wealth of experience and dedication to the equine industry make her the ideal person to guide our judging programs to even greater heights.”

With a history of active involvement in equine organizations as an exhibitor, breeder, trainer, clinician, judge and staff member, Jirkovsky is well-prepared to lead the association’s judging and professional horsemen initiatives.

“I am truly honored to be named the director of judges and professional horsemen for the American Paint Horse Association,” Jirkovsky said. “APHA has a rich tradition of excellence and innovation, and I am committed to maintaining and elevating the high standards for which the association is known. I look forward to working with the APHA team and the equine community to ensure that our judging and professional horsemen programs continue to be a source of pride and integrity for our organization.”

APHA is excited about the expertise and enthusiasm Jirkovsky brings to the role, and it anticipates a bright future for its programs under her guidance.