Superwoman Super Select Kris Theiler
Kris smiles at another exhibitor at the OQHA Spring Show. Photo credit: Rachel Griffin Photography.
By Delores Kuhlwein
Kris Theiler has a big fan base.
In fact, there’s a pretty good chance you may have a piece of her custom show clothing in your wardrobe due to the many years she has been making show clothes for countless exhibitors with her business, Kris’ Kustoms.
“I’ve been making show clothes since I was in high school,” Kris explains – a span of over 50 years. “Kris’ Kustoms was started about 43 years ago, and I’ve been lucky to have wonderful repeat customers over the years; some second and third generation.”
Not only that, but Kris is inspiring riders everywhere she goes. The Bonner Springs, Kansas resident currently shows Batt Gurl, aka “Kiwi,” at AQHA shows under the guidance of Katelyn and Joe Connolly at Connolly Equine in Linwood, Kansas.
She does so at the age of 74.
How does she do it? “Katelyn and Joe have an amazing group of Select ladies along with several youth…it’s the perfect place for myself and Kiwi!” Kris says. Her support network is important, she explains, especially from her loved ones. “I couldn’t do any of this without the support of my husband Paul Theiler and our son Nick Skaar.”
Another one of the Super Select exhibitor’s keys to competing is by setting goals for herself – this year, they include excelling in Western Pleasure and Horsemanship with Kiwi.
Most impressively, she has done so throughout her entire show career, progressing with each breed she shows and setting new objectives to keep herself fresh and competitive. “I’ve shown since I was 13 years old,” she says. “I started with Pinto and Paint, moved to Palomino, and now Quarter Horse for the last six or seven years.”
When asked what she has learned that is most important in all the years she has shown, however, here’s what she has to say:
“I’ve learned to be positive in everything I do especially at horse shows…there are so many novice riders out there who appreciate a smile or hello from someone they don’t even know! I know it makes my day,” she reveals.
Kris’ active lifestyle with Kris’ Kustoms may be one more key to her overall success. “It keeps me very busy which at my age along with riding is a complete blessing!!” she says.
Way to go Kris – please join us in cheering her on when you see her down the road! Thank you to Rachel Griffin Photography for all the beautiful images of Kris and Kiwi.
