Déjà Vu at the NSBA World… EC Blog by: Keaton Crawford

EC Blog by: Keaton Crawford

Being consistent from show to show can be one of the most difficult things about competing with an animal that has a mind of its own.  Whether it’s rider error, a horse’s mistake, or even something as simple as a different judge’s opinion, each show has its own memories and its own results. Although this is certainly the case, some horses and riders have a the uncanny ability to stay consistent from one show to the next. Sometimes, we feel a sense of déjà vu, because these riders prove their abilities time and time again and are often the last ones standing in the arena.

Coming off the AQHA Youth World Championship Show in Oklahoma City about a week ago, it’s hard to believe that some of these competitors have the stamina and mental capacity to compete again in Tulsa.  Nonetheless, there were several top competitors that came straight to the NSBA World Show to show off their abilities once. Today, several horses and rider pairs that took home coveted AQHA globes last week, also won beautiful NSBA trophies and belt buckles this week.

Emily Maul had only humble remarks and genuine excitement when she picked up a third place trophy in Youth Trail today, even after coming from being the top scorer and World Champion at the Youth World last week. There is an undeniable talent within this team and not to mention the incredible bond that Emily has with her horse “Lefty.”

Sydney Scheckel picked up a repeat win in Youth Showmanship today with her mare that just won the golden globe at the Youth World last week. She looked just as excited and shocked as she did when she received her trophy at the World Show, and, as always, she was so appreciative of congratulations from fellow competitors. Ellexxah Maxwell was also Reserve in the class here at the NSBA World after picking up the silver globe at the Youth World.  There were the two of them, standing in the arena just as they did last week. For these two competitors and their mares to be standing in the arena together once again shows their true dedication to the class and their ability to stay consistent from one horse show to the next.

Jenna Jacobs piloted her trusty steed to win another World Championship title here at the NSBA World Show in Youth Hunter Under Saddle.  After coming from the Youth World, where they won the same class, Jenna and Doodle Jump also show a uncanny capability to bring their “A game” to each and every horse show they attend.

The Youth Horsemanship almost had a déjà vu moment, as well. Carli Pitts, who won the reserve title at the Youth World, rode her mare to come out on top in the class here in Tulsa. Natalia DeVencenty, who took home the bronze trophy at the Youth World, took home the silver trophy in the class today. Not only did they come and give it their all, they both rode their horses and moved up a spot, crowning them World and Reserve World Champions here at the NSBA World Show.

Sometimes the 1,200 pound animal you’re riding might have a different agenda for the day than the one you’d planned. Sometimes, the pattern might have a difficult maneuver or the arena might be a little scarier for your horse. Whatever the case, it’s always amazing to see teams of horses and riders come from one show to the next and still come out on top. It shows that these riders have the mental toughness and passion to set the bar high.

Congratulations to all of the riders who were crowned the new NSBA World and Reserve World Champions today! Congratulations to all of the competitors who came straight from the AQHA Youth World Show and are here, with smiles on their faces, working hard to earn their spot at the top of the class.