PG . 19
' Michelle keeps her mind on their next Ranch Riding pattern maneuver ' ' GP One Awesome Oak Q-91315 , aka Leroy , as a young foal ' has definitely become my favourite ! Since the Ranch Riding class came onto the Western show scene , it ’ s become the fastest growing class . I ’ ve competed with up to 18 people in Ranch Riding classes , which is both very encouraging , and more challenging ! Leroy is a gem to show . He ’ s very obedient and always looks happy to do any job asked of him , which is a great advantage in Ranch Riding . But , I thoroughly enjoy all the show arena moments with him . He ’ s a very honest horse , with a good , willing work ethic . Sometimes , he can be a little lazy , but that suits my program . I like a horse to wait for my cues , meaning , I ' d rather be pushing and driving a kind horse forward , than to have to contend with one that ’ s constantly trying to make his own arrangements , while pulling at the bit and trying to rush off .’
This season alone has seen GP One Awesome Oak Q-91315 win around nine Ranch Riding and Versatility High Point Buckles , High Point Ranch Versatility Horse , Runner-Up High Point Performance Horse of Australia , and the AQHA High Point Halter Stallion of Australia . But the accolade that Michelle was most proud of was Leroy ’ s major award , the AQHA High Point Ranch Riding Horse of Australia !
It would have been hard for Michelle to hold back her emotions on AQHA presentation night , as she stepped forward many times to accept Leroy ’ s awards . It ’ s proof of , not just the great partnership between this horse and rider , but the many hours of care and commitment , hard work , understanding and travel .
Travel is always a huge part of showing horses . Michelle does around 13,000km each year from Victoria to Queensland , showing both client ’ s horses and her own horses . While competing at the major shows like the AQHA Nationals and State Shows , Halter Breeders Group Association , NPHA and the Tropicana Classic , there have also been many big Quarter horse shows and Western Performance Club shows with some Feature Ranch Events , and some Ranch Shows that Michelle and Leroy have competed at .
AQHA JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024