The barns are quiet, the arenas are empty, and the 2017 NSBA World Championship has come to an end. As most horses were being loaded and traveling down interstates, the Ranch horses came out to play. A variety of horses, with various backgrounds and styles came together to show in classes that reflect the original using horses that the show horse industry was based off of in the early days. Leslie Lange dominated the Open division with The Immortal, winning Ranch Trail, Ranch Riding, and Ranch Rail. “I grew up on a working Ranch so I started doing [these classes] because I thought it was fun.” Once she started competing, she realized that “I.T” was tealented in the discipline. “He obviously comes from a show horse breeding, but he’s been roped off of, he’s got barrel points, pleasure points, Western Riding, points. He’s really quite versatile.” Leslie, who was one of the most accomplished Ranch Riders in the industry, believes that a Ranch Riding horse is a “middle ground horse in some ways. For me personally, I want something that’s comfortable to sit on, a good mover, is pretty in the pen, and is super broke.” She continued, “ I almost treat my ranch horses like a Horsemanship horse. I make them be obedient, good demenior, is able to stop and turn around, who is broke and easy to ride.” For Lindsay Guynn, her win in the Non Pro Ranch Riding was a special one. Unable to compete in the AQHA Youth World due to her mare, Fancy Lil Catillac, “Natalie” obtaining an injury, being able to compete and win at the NSBA World Show was an exciting venture. “I’m so glad NSBA offers Ranch classes. It brings different types of horses together and gives people more opportunities to show.” In addition to the Ranch classes, the NSBA World Show All-Around Champions were named, which is a new addition that started in 2017. EWD—Spencer Lee Roberson Youth Walk-Trot—Emma Grace Gore & Hes Suddenly Handsome Novice Youth—Allison Travis & N A Heartbeat Youth—Natalia Devencenty & Chex Is The Choice Novice Amateur—Debra Craig & PF Put It N Park Amateur—Lindsey Wilt-Perotti & Zip Up By Blumers 50 & Over Amateur—Laurel Champlin & Look N Hott Open—Peyton Bivins & Kamanyanannadance Congratulations to all who competed, supported, and worked the 2017 NSBA World Championship Show. With total over 6700 entries, this year marks the biggest show yet, and we are already looking forward to the 13th year and making it the best one yet!