Sandy Williamson, competing in amatuer ranch trail, photo credit: Carol CrosleyThe newly formed Southwest Horseman's Horse Show Association kicked off its inaugural show in Silver City at Southwest Horseman's Park, drawing 30 exhibitors ranging in age from 3 to 83. Exhibitors hailed from eastern Arizona, Silver City, Escondido, Las Cruces and La Luz, New Mexico, coming together for a full day of competition and camaraderie.
The weekend began Friday afternoon with a schooling clinic followed by a horse judging jackpot, which brought in nine additional youth participants from FFA and 4-H. After evaluating classes and presenting their reasons, Dusty Waters emerged as the jackpot winner.
Saturday's show began promptly at 9 a.m. and ran until 6:30 p.m., showcasing a wide variety of classes. Exhibitors competed in halter and showmanship, western pleasure, western horsemanship, ranch pleasure, ranch riding, ranch trail and reining, along with crowd-favorite speed events including barrels and poles. The event highlighted both seasoned competitors and first-time exhibitors, emphasizing sportsmanship and quality horsemanship throughout the day.
Division Hi-Point winners were: Open – JD Younker; Amateur – Michele McGorky; 14–18 – Olivia McDonald; 13 and Under – Kaycee Younker; and 12 and Under Walk/Trot – Cooper Younker.
Aged gelding halter class, photo credit: Jeanette MuiseOrganizers look forward to welcoming everyone back March 6 for a horsemanship clinic with Mariah Wilson of Platinum Performance Horses, followed by the next show on March 7. For entry forms, email
