NEWS FROM NCHA

September 22, 2000 --- For Immediate Release

NCHA SPONSORS - A CUT ABOVE AT COWDANGO 2000

Fort Worth, TX ---      The ninth annual National Cutting Horse Association "Cowdango" was held September 18 - 19 at the magnificent Silverado on the Brazos equine facility, south of Weatherford, Texas. This year's Cowdango offered NCHA's many corporate program and event sponsors the opportunity to experience the sport of cutting themselves from "the best seat in the house"- in the saddle aboard a top cutting horse!

NCHA's corporate and business sponsors are key to the growth and success of this equine industry. NCHA sponsors provide funding and assistance for the many member programs, events and special projects which help promote the sport of cutting and help NCHA members and their families benefit from their involvement with horses and the western heritage of this equine activity.

At this year's Cowdango event, twenty-seven sponsor representatives and guests were on hand Monday evening, September 18, for a reception and dinner at Silverado Steakhouse, located above the indoor arena at this spectacular equine and residential community. Following dinner, special guest and legendary cutting horse trainer Buster Welch shared his insights into the important role of cutting horses in the history of the American West, and the enduring legacy of this popular sport.

Following Welch's presentation and the introduction of NCHA officers and staff, NCHA executive Director Jeff Hooper and marketing director Clay Murray outlined NCHA goals and objectives relative to sponsor relationships, as well as the value of NCHA's unique demographics afford its affinity sponsors.

On Tuesday morning, everyone enjoyed a cutting short course conducted by 2000 NCHA Super Stakes Champion Chubby Turner, resident trainer at Silverado and a top cutting competitor. A master at training beginners and horses alike, Turner had participants "horseback" by mid-morning and assigned to another group of top trainers, who served as coaches and team leaders for the afternoon's competition.

During a break for lunch, riders were grouped into seven teams of four members for the main event, and a draw was held for the working order. Mike Kelly, NCHA director of judges, and Dave Brian, NCHA manager of shows, served as judges for the event. When the competition got underway, each rider was allotted the standard two and one-half minute working time.

While first-time riders professed to some anxious moments before the competition, everyone rode out of the arena following their performances with broad smiles - and an occasional sigh of relief. "I just focused on what Chubby told us to do and it worked," said first-time cutter Jim McMullen, of MBNA.  McMullen compared the feel of his ride to a roller coaster. "it was fun, but scary fun," he said. "It was a blast and now I can relate when I hear people talk about riding a cutting horse."

Dinner that evening found riders comparing notes, analyzing videos of their performances, and enjoying another fine meal provided by Silverado Steakhouse. Dessert was followed by award presentations. The Brazos Stars team consisting of Brenda Van New Kirk, Cinch Jeans; Terry Estes, Professional's Choise; David McFall, Acco Feeds; and Brad Vance, Merrill Lynch, each received Gist trophy belt buckles as the high-scoring team. Ron Lane, of Boerhringer-Ingelheim, received an Hen & Rooster pocket knife as the highest scoring rider, with 150.5 points. Jo Lynne Pierce, with Chevy Trucks, also received an inscribed Hen & Rooster knife, as the "Most Improved Rider."  All sponsor participants were awarded special Gist trophy buckles as a token of their participation and in appreciation for their enthusiasm for this event and the cutting horse industry.

Team captains and trainers received customized Spyderco clip knives in appreciation for their invaluable help and advice as well. In addition to Chubby Turner, other professionals trainers participating included Chris Benedict, Winston Hansma, Clay Johns, Craig Morris, Mike Mowery, Rick Mowery and Rodie Whitman.

Finding horses which were well trained and suitable for the sponsors to ride was an undertaking of itself. Chubby Turner coordinated locating enough horses for the day, and received enthusiastic cooperation from Judy Conrad, George Jensen, Esperanza Ranch, Clay Johns, Tom and Linden Blackmon, Bill Pedigo, Becky Felder, Debbie South, Rick Mowery, Chris Benedict, John Pace and Bob Kingsley, who all volunteered one or more of their horses for the days activities.

Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, NCHA oversees cutting competition for its 12,000 members who participate in more than 1,400 events. More than $22 million in prize money is awarded annually to cutting competitors. NCHA's corporate sponsors play a vital role in helping the industry continue to grow and in encouraging more participation among experienced horse owners and newcomers alike.

For more information, contact Pete Hale at NCHA, 817-244-6188.