Rodger Call’s Go Big Sky Wins NSBA World Show Working Hunter Derby With Linda Crothers

By: Brittany Bevis

The NSBA World Championship Show is abuzz with activity today with competition running simultaneously in all three pens. The AQHA Show Your Colors horse show is underway in both the Super Duty Arena and Mustang Arenas with Trail, Horsemanship, and Western Riding, respectively. Over in the Ford Truck Arena, there is an Over Fences special event underway running concurrently with the NSBA World Show.

In the first class of the morning, the Working Hunter Derby, Linda Crothers rode Go Big Sky to a big win for owner Rodger Call. “Marcus” is a 15-year-old grey gelding who’s been Rodger’s partner for many years. They currently compete under the guidance of their longtime horse trainer, Chuck Briggs.

Rodger was very pleased with Marcus’ run today, especially the required trot fence in the final round. “I thought her first go run, where she scored a 95, was good. There was one fence that was little long, but that was ok. Then, in her final go, I thought her trot fence was the best of the whole class.”

Later on today, Rodger and Marcus will be competing together in Select Working Hunter, Select Equitation Over Fences, and Select Hunter Hack, and Rodger let us in on a little secret… “I’m what they call a Super Select, because I’m 74, and I’m the only one here showing in that category.”

We asked how, at the age of 74, Rodger manages to stay in top  form and compete in one of the more demanding disciplines at the horse show. “Well, I go to the gym every day!” he says. “I’ve been jumping for quite a while. My wife passed away nine years ago, and I have just kept it up. Ann loved to do Pleasure Driving, so I have taken up Pleasure Driving too. Marcus and I have won Select Pleasure Driving at the World Show twice.” Following the NSBA World Championship Show, Rodger and Marcus will head to Amarillo to compete in Over Fence events as well as Pleasure Driving.

We wondered if Rodger had any advice for competitors who feel they’ve missed their opportunity to ride and show horses competitively. He says it’s never too late. “I would say you can do it; just get a trustworthy horse and be cautious and careful and you will be happy and safe. Also, have a good trainer!”