National Snaffle Bit Association is saddened to share the news of the sudden passing of NSBA, AQHA and WCHA judge, show steward and show manager Casey Devitt of Harrodsburg, Kentucky, on Friday, December 5, 2025.

Casey was a respected judge who officiated at many of the nation’s premier horse shows, including the AQHA Open and Amateur World Championship Show, the AQHA Select Amateur World Championship Show and the NSBA World Championship Show and Breeders Championship Futurity. 

Beyond judging, Casey served the industry as a show steward, show manager, show monitor, mentor and trainer. He assisted in managing some of the largest horse shows in the world, including the All American Quarter Horse Congress, the Arizona Sun Circuit and the Dixie National. His leadership and professionalism were widely recognized, and he was named the 2016 Don Burt Professional’s Choice Professional of the Year. 

Casey brought a unique perspective to the industry through his diverse background. He showed in Ranch and cattle classes, competed in rodeo events, rode as an exposition rider, and even worked as a jockey. His early training in veterinary science further strengthened his understanding of horses and horsemanship. 

At the start of his professional career, Casey apprenticed under respected industry professionals Greg Whalen, Barney Hinds and Tim Whitney. He went on to show multiple horses to top ten finishes in Halter at the AQHA World Championship Show, including TNT Mr Marvelous and Justa Shade Wild. He coached many Youth and Amateur exhibitors to top ten placings and All Around championships at major events such as the All American Quarter Horse Congress and the AQHA World Championship Show. His passion for teaching helped shape riders into confident, knowledgeable and successful equine industry members. 

NSBA extends its heartfelt condolences to his wife, April, and to the Devitt family. Service arrangements will be shared once available.

About NSBA

Established in 1983, National Snaffle Bit Association has expanded from its roots in the Western Pleasure discipline to recognize various disciplines and eight breed associations in competition. NSBA’s mission is to grow the show horse community through various equine programs and events where every activity benefits horses, breeders, owners and exhibitors alike.

National Snaffle Bit Association has more than 20,000 active members and more than 44,000 registered horses across its eight alliance breed organizations. NSBA members earn more than $13.5 million in monetary awards at NSBA-sanctioned horse shows annually, and the association sanctions nearly 600 horse show events and close to 200,000 horse show entries each year.

To learn more about NSBA, please visit nsba.com.