We're proud to have accomplished another outstanding Kimes Ranch Western Derby, held May 29th through June 8th in Scottsdale, Arizona. This year's event saw over 1,600 exceptional displays of horsemanship and fierce competition across all events. Beyond the competition, the NRCHyA offered fun activities for the industry’s youth, making it a memorable event for all ages. Between rising stars getting their moment to shine, the #KRJFamily accomplishments, and the priceless memories made by youth and adults alike, this Derby was a resounding success!
Within the highly anticipated Open Bridle class, talented horses and riders vied for a coveted spot in the prestigious Run For A Million Cowhorse Challenge event later in August. As cowhorse pros battled it out with exceptional displays of herd work, rein work, and cow work, our own Shadd Parkinson was on fire with wins and placings in multiple divisions. Not only did Parkinson champion the Intermediate Open Bridle atop CR Tuff Star War and came in second to himself with Tornado Watch, he also placed third and tied for top 5 with our other endorsee, Erin Taormino, in the Open Bridle division. Both of these exceptional athletes qualified for The Run For A Million Cowhorse Challenge, joining Sarah Dawson, who qualified back in March at the Stallion Stakes. There is one more qualifier in Tulsa at the Hackamore Classic next month. We look forward to keeping you posted if any more of our Kimes Ranch endorsees secure a spot to Las Vegas!
The Open Derby divisions were a showcase of mastery. After the dust settled, the one who, once again, climbed to the top of the leaderboard: a member of our #KRJFamily, Nick Dowers, aboard A Reyl Rebel. With a score of 664, they stole the show to win $50,000. Coming in third was another Kimes Ranch rider, Clayton Edsall, piloting Hicaliber Cat. Their exceptional partnerships and talent will undoubtedly inspire future generations of reined cow horse competitors.
Youngsters weren't left out of the fun at the Kimes Ranch Western Derby! The NRCHyA held a range of fun events. Kids could test their balance in a hilarious egg and spoon race atop a trusty steed. They held onto tradition with a game of Messy Kickball which entailed baby oil, glitter, and bubbles, where Matt Kimes himself, pitched the game and kept score. Needless to say, the equine wash racks were filled with kids that day… Aspiring ropers could hone their skills in the Dummy Team Roping, where even the adults got to join in on the fun! The Kimes Ranch retail booth offered a chance to win prizes at a claw machine, and for some downtime, the Kimes Korner provided youth with classic games like corn hole and putt-putt golf, alongside creative outlets like chalk art and puzzles. It was a show filled with laughter, friendly competition, and activities.
Whether it was the seasoned horses showcasing their expertise in the Spectaculars or the young guns impressing in the Open Derby divisions, the 2024 Kimes Ranch Western Derby solidified its reputation as a premier celebration of the reined cowhorse. Congratulations to all!
-Shea Gilson
