Fortunately, one horse show program has overcome the challenges of 2020 and transitioned to a virtual format to continue to provide experiences and scholarship monies for youth participants this January. Aligning with the National Western Stock Show (NWSS) pillars of youth, education and agriculture, the Youth Equestrian Showcase (Y.E.S.) was created to recognize and support our local equestrian youth and …
Providing Unique Experiences Through Partnership
Sometimes beneficial experiences come through unusual circumstances and conversations. You can never quite predict what a band director from an engineering school might respond when you ask if they can play live music while horses perform in the arena around them. Dr. Robert ‘Bob’ Klimek, the Director of Bands for the Colorado School of Mines, replied simply “sure, we can …
Retiring a Winner
Five events over two days comprised the third National Western Horseman’s Challenge. Winning first place in the 2020 Advanced division and second in the Speed Challenge was Margaret Blaha of Golden, Colorado. A longtime National Western Stock Show fan, Margaret and her partner Sonny savored their win this year. Sonny, a 19-year-old sorrel and white gelding, competed in his last show as …
Sharing Family Traditions
Sitting in the green seats in the Stadium Arena next to his father as they watched the various cattle shows is one of John Hiemer’s fondest memories of the National Western Stock Show. It is those family traditions, love of the agricultural heritage and the desire to mentor and share that lifestyle with others that drives John to continue to …
Eyes on the Prize
View PostWhat is Mentor Matchup?
The National Western Stock Show (NWSS) Youth Ranch Horse Mentor Matchup scholarship program is just two years old and already very popular with competitors and spectators alike. Created in 2018, Mentor Matchup provides an opportunity for local equestrian youth to learn and compete during the NWSS through relevant hands-on educational activities with their equine partner and top equine professionals. Prior …
Fifth Time’s A Charm
This year’s Ram Invitational Freestyle Reining Champion, Sharee Schwartzenberger, is no stranger to horses or the sport.