Christy McElreath, Emily Winegar and Dalton Vanlandingham Top Southwest Reining Horse Association Futurity Youth Classes

Youth competition took center-stage on Saturday morning at the Southwest Reining Horse Association Futurity at the Hardy Murphy Coliseum in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Christy McElreath, of Prosper, Texas, was crowned Champion of the Youth 14-18 division. Riding her Tejons Sugar Pine, she marked a 72, earning her both a saddle and a plaque, compliments of the Southwest Reining Horse Association.

The 14-18 Youth Reserve Championship was won by Paige Monfore, who marked a 71.5. Paige rode Star Pine Whiz, and won a set of spur straps from Kyle Tack.

12-year-old Emily Winegar, of Aubrey, Texas, won the Youth 13 & Under class, on Hot Hollywood Jewels, who is owned by Green Valley Ranch. The Youth 13 & Under Championship earned Winegar a saddle and plaque. The pair also won 3rd in Friday’s Limited Open. “The Limited Open class was supposed to be a ‘test run,’” said Winegar. “I’m just getting to know her, but this is really cool.”  Winegar’s family recently purchased the 8-year-old mare from Patrice St Onge, and the pair have hit it off. They have even made the finals in the reining at the AQHA Youth World Show. Winegar tied for second on Shiners Mistress with Jordan Donnelly on Hollywood All Star. Both competitors scored a 71.

In the always popular Short Stirrup class, 8-year-old Dalton Vanlandingham topped the class on Red Moon Snap with a score of 71! This was the first time Dalton has shown, but he was quick to point out that he was not worried. “I don’t think I was nervous. She did what I wanted her to,” said the Champion. Dalton, who is in third grade at Whitesboro Intermediate, borrowed the horse from Rosanne Sternberg, who was unable to attend the show.  “I called her, and she was very excited,” he said. “I need to thank her for letting me borrow this horse. I also need to thank my dad, Jason.” Dalton plans to ride Red Moon Snap at the NRHA Futurity in the Short Stirrup division.

Cade McCutcheon and Okie Dun Did It were the Short Stirrup Reserve Champions. Okie Dun Did It is owned by Louise Serio.

For more information on the Southwest Reining Horse Association Futurity, or to inquire about the SWRHA, please call 580-759-2572, or visit www.swrha.com.