BURBANK—The California Reining Horse Association saw its largest Challenge Horse Show in recent memory. Approximately 330 stalls were sold with many of those spaces filled with horses from out of state. The prestigious futurity and last derby of the year brought the competition out.

The show has garnered the reputation of hosting one of the premier futurities on the West Coast. Through the years, many of the top horses made famous at the NRHA Futurity were seen showing in the Burbank class first. This year was no exception. Martin Muehlstaetter won the L4 division on Seven On Seven owned by Anne Solbraekke. The pair laid down a scorching 148.5 to win. A few weeks later, they finished fourth in the NRHA Futurity.

A hometown favorite and CRHA board member, Daphne Foran, claimed the Reserve Championship on Hey Little Porsche owned by Charmain Sauro. They were only a point off of the leader marking a 147.5. That run did earn them championship titles in every other division—the L1, L2, and L3.

After the run, Daphne was understandably elated. “I couldn’t be more proud of this little mare,” she said. “She came to us almost a year behind in her training but is so good-minded and has so much heart and courage, she let me show her to her potential. This is a milestone in my career, and I can’t thank everyone enough for their support and belief in me!”

The last derby of the year also saw some exceptional runs. Topping the L4 was Shotgun Rider ridden by Tracer Gilson for owner, Vickie Compton. It took a 147 to claim the title. Midnite Whizkey Run, ridden by Martin Padilla, and Nite Tripps, with rider Thiago Sobral, tied for reserve. Results were the same in the L3.

Everyone loves a run-off and that what spectators got to watch for the L1 and L2 title. When the dust settled, Nite Tripps and Sobral bested Midnite Whizkey Run and Padilla for the win.

Running concurrent with the Derby was the Open Stakes. It was Sobral and Nite Trip claiming the win. There was a tie for the Reserve spot between Codalicious and Gilson for Loren Booth, Gunnaflashmycash and Gabriel Borges for Anne Solbraekke, TR Patsdreaminofgold and Daphne Foran for Copus Performance Horses, and Rey Town with Tom Foran for Taylor Sheridan.

In the Amateur Derby, some local faces also excelled, as TR Patsdreaminofgold and owner-rider Kathy Copus won the title. “I can’t believe this wonderful little horse is leaving this show with six belt buckles!,” said Copus. “He’s such a great horse!” There was a tie for the Reserve spot between Shiney Workboots owned and ridden by MaryBeth Ruckman and Chic Charming with Micki Quinn.

Another exciting feature at the Challenge is the crowning of the Reiner of the Year. All season long, riders work to qualify by showing in CRHA events. This year, the winner of the gorgeous Sterling Saddle was Casey Bibb. This young woman has been an ardent supporter of the association, competing at all its events. She proved she has what it takes to be a champion and won the coveted prize

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