The April issue of the Paint Horse Journal celebrates 2014’s top APHA riders as they reflect on the successes and challenges of their year. Though winning in the pen is necessary to climb to the No. 1 spot, each rider revealed that there’s more to their stories than just blue ribbons and trophies. Be on the lookout for the April issue, arriving in mailboxes soon.

Congratulations to the following teams:

No. 1 Youth 13 & Under—Erin Griffin & Figure On Fancy

Erin and “Cody” had a year of firsts, as the young equestrienne introduced the Western pleasure-focused horse to all-around events.

No. 1 Youth 14–18—Taylor Dixon & My Sensational Cookie

Facing her last year as a Youth—and her last semester of high school—Taylor carefully planned her show schedule to get the most out of the fewest shows; her planning helped her reach her competitive goals without sacrificing important senior-year memories and events.

No 1. Youth Solid Paint-Bred—Jesse Lambourn & Invite Beth

Though he’s used to doing well wherever he goes, Jesse still struggled with nerves when it game to his AjPHA Youth World Championship Show debut.

Youth Rookie of the Year—Lauren Gralla & RL Sudden Style

Lauren and “700’s” favorite class is trail. In their first year of walk-jog-lope classes, the team had to work to add the extra gait while still nailing patterns.

No. 1 Classic Amateur—Tami Dietrich-Dobbs & Seems Like Heaven

Come show day, Tami only focuses on beating one person—the rider she was the day before.

No. 1 Masters Amateur—Coleen Bull & Timeless Assets

Already an accomplished pair, Coleen and “Tucson” added pleasure driving to their repertoire in 2014.

No. 1 Amateur Solid Paint-Bred—Shanae Nelson & Ironed With Class

“Lulu” is a homebred mare that Shanae and her grandmother, Vickie Christensen, bred together.

No. 1 Novice Amateur—Emma Stubblefield & Too Hot To

Though this is Emma’s first year in the spotlight, “Hank” is making a repeat appearance—he won the No 1. Novice Amateur title in 2011 with former owner and Emma’s friend, Kristen Shaw. 

Amateur Rookie of the Year—Jacquelyn Hook & He Sends Roses

Jacquelyn was inspired to show for a year-end title during her time as an intern for the APHA Performance Department. 

No. 1 Open Horse—Shez Eye Candy

Though “Fran” dominated the Open division, Youth rider Drew Rodgers says her favorite accomplishment for 2014 was her unanimous win in Youth 14–18 Trail at the AjPHA Youth World Championship Show. 

No. 1 Open Solid Paint-Bred—O Where Is My Spot

Amateur rider Kristy Doyle bred, raised, trained and showed “Jasmine” all on her own. 

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 About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association, registering more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories since it was founded. APHA creates and maintains programs that increase the value of American Paint Horses and enriches members’ experiences with their horses. For more information visit www.APHA.com.