Tens of thousands of entries happened in ACTHA’s competitive season and Nancy exhibited pure sportsmanship and a willingness to help anyone she encountered. When asked what she thought was the highlight of her year besides winning Nationals, Nancy said “it was inspiring people and helping them, watching them do things with their horses that they didn't think possible! Meeting new friends (that I have become very connected to), seeing their relationship with their horses improve, and watching them and their horses WIN! ACTHA develops horses and horsemanship. As a teacher, that is the stuff turns me on!!”
This was our first year in competition, we had saddle issues, personal setbacks, but without fail, I had the time of my life! I have always felt that anything worth doing is worth doing well. My mother who had always been my other constant supporter passed this year. She had been in a nursing home for 5 years, following Shaman's and my journey together since I bought her. She actually went into hospice while I was on an ACTHA ride. She was so proud of the horsewoman I had become, and of the sweet horse I had developed. Horses are a gift. I would always tell my mother, "Thank you, Mama for buying me Scout" (my first horse at age 4). What a ride it's been!!
When told of Nancy’s accomplishment, Linda and Pat Parelli were thrilled.
“We [Pat and Linda] are very proud of Nancy for her recent accomplishment of becoming the ACTHA 2013-2014 Champion. Nancy is a 2-Star Parelli Professional and has certainly proved her training and expertise in this competition. Of over 25,000 rider entries, we couldn’t be happier that Nancy showcased the power of love, language, & leadership to achieve her success! A few years ago, Nancy brought her challenging mule, Josh, to some private sessions with Linda. Her breakthroughs were phenomenal and it was not long after that she decided to pursue her dream as a Parelli Professional. These words from Nancy still echo strongly to us: "I've truly never met anyone with more heart then you, if there's anything I could ever do for YOU, please know I'm there!" Well, Nancy, you are THERE! Thank you for flying the Parelli flag and being such a great example. ACTHA is the perfect venue for Parelli students to challenge what they're learning and apply them.
ACTHA and Parelli couldn’t ask for a more deserving and inspiring poster child. We are all very proud of Nancy, a true horsewoman, who supports ACTHA’s motto of “Serious Fun..Casual Competition” and believes in ACTHA’s mission that all horses need a job.
ACTHA Monthly | November 2014 | 13