NCHA News

FORT WORTH, Texas – November 18, 2025 – The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) is proud to announce Jamie Hays as the 2025 Mary Kingsbury Amateur Sportsmanship Award honoree. Sponsored by the Lackey Family, this distinguished award recognizes an Amateur rider who exemplifies sportsmanship, integrity, encouragement, and a welcoming spirit within the cutting horse community.

The award, created in honor of the late Mary Kingsbury, celebrates competitors who embody her unwavering kindness, resilience, and dedication to lifting others in and out of the cutting pen. Kingsbury—known for her courage throughout her battle with cancer and her generosity to fellow competitors—remains a beloved figure across the NCHA membership.

Hays shared that learning of the award was both unexpected and deeply meaningful. “I had no idea I’d been nominated until I received the phone call from Brooke Manion after the Amateur Committee had met,” she said. “It came as a complete surprise, and such a wonderful honor to be recognized by your peers.” 

A longtime Amateur competitor, Hays also had a personal connection to Kingsbury. Growing up showing in Area 18, she often competed alongside Mary. “We knew each other in and out of the cutting pen back in the day, and I remember her well—especially during her battle with cancer. To receive an award that carries her name is truly special.” 

Beyond her own success in the arena, this year’s honoree is widely admired for her encouragement of new cutters—especially those just entering the sport. “I always try to make people feel welcome. I cheer on my friends and our new beginners so they know we want them here.” Her enthusiasm is well known among fellow competitors. With a laugh, she added, “People tease me because they say they can always find me—they just listen for my voice in the loping pen. Apparently, it carries!” 

The 2025 season has been a milestone year for Hays, who qualified for the NCHA Broke Spur Ranch World Finals for the first time—earning spots in both the Unlimited Amateur and Non-Pro divisions. “I was already excited beyond belief to make the World Finals for the first time,” she shared. “Finding out I’d been chosen for this award was just the icing on the cake. So, 2025 has been a phenomenal year, and I've been very blessed.” She expressed deep gratitude to the Lackey Family, whose sponsorship makes the award possible. 

The Mary Kingsbury Amateur Sportsmanship Award will be presented during the 2025 NCHA Metallic Cat World Championship Futurity, held in Fort Worth during the Amateur Finals on Wednesday, December 3, inside the John Justin Arena. 

For more information on current and upcoming NCHA events, please visit nchacutting.com.