Equifest of Kansas 2024

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THANK YOU

27 th Annual EquiFest of Kansas March 14, 15, 16 & 17, 2024 Saline County Expo Center & Tony’s Pizza Events Center Salina, KS

Every year, we strive to provide something new and exciting for our fans of EquiFest of KS. It takes a lot of volunteer hours and dedicated committee members to produce this premier equine expo and we hope you enjoy your time with us! While you are here, be sure to thank these committee members for their passion and commitment to assist in planning, set up and implementation. I know I am grateful for these and ALL the volunteers who are helping us on site! THANK YOU!

Special Competition- Open Horse Judging KQHA: Bobbie Hinds Special Competition- 4H State Horse Judging: Kelsey Nordyke Special Competition- Over the Ears Photo Contest: Wendy Bowles Special Competition- Pole Bending: Renee Nichols Stall Barn Manager: Julie Bellucci Visit Salina Vendor Services: Jo Ann McClure Sponsor Services: Chris Kaegi Stephens Veterinary Services: Dr. Chris Blevins Veterinary Services: Dr. Adam Bassett Veterinary Services: Dr. Haileigh Avellar Veterinary Services: Dr. Cara Croft Volunteer Coordinator: Tera & Ken Benefiel Workshop Coordinators in TPEC: Jenice & Pat McCoy TO ALL VOLUNTEERS who have signed up to help with set up, event activities or tear down, on behalf of the whole EquiFest Committee, we sincerely THANK YOU for your time! SPONSORS, DONORS & THE MANY GREAT FRIENDS OF EQUIFEST, thank you for supporting this event and helping to make it a special memory for all who attend!

4H Stage Coordinator: Heather Franklin Arena Supervisor-Ag Hall: Richard &Tracy McIntyre Arena Assistant-Ag Hall: Ray Hunt Arena Supervisor-TPEC: Craig Barnett Arena Assistant-TPEC: Billy Lane Barcus Arena Assistant-TPEC: Mathew Dodson Arena Maintenance & Logistics: Rex Burdick Breeds & Special Demos Coordinator: Cheryl Thomas Breeds & Special Demos Coordinator: Renee Nichols Cowboy Church: Pastor Steve Stafford Event Executive Committee-Chair: Kallie Emig Event Executive Committee-Vice Chair: Jim Thomas Event Executive Committee-Secretary: Cheryl Thomas Event Executive Committee-Treasurer: Greg McDonald Event Executive Committee-Advisory: Craig Barnett Event Executive Committee-Advisory: Sheryl Strathman Foundation Silent Auction: Janette Coffelt Hospitality: Rosie Sweeten Hospitality: Bonnie Warner Hospitality: Wendy Griffin Kansas Rodeo Royalty Coordinator: Kristi Koch KHC Booth Coordinator: Sheryl Strathman Legendary KS Horsemen's Panel: Dr. Stan O’Neil Marketing & Advertising-Pre Event: Christian Calliham Official Photography Team Coordinator: Kevin Kirkwood Security Coordinator: Jim Thomas Social Media Team- Pre Event: Gabby Hamler Social Media Team Coordinator- On Site: Alisha Owens Social Relations Coordinator: Fred Gabrielli Special Competition- Barrel Racing: Kris Hanson Special Competition- Breakaway Roping: Albert DeLaGarza Special Competition- Draft Horse Races: Eli Avery Special Competition- Farrier Contest: Matthew Shaklee

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2024 SPONSORS

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INSIDE EQUIFEST

Box offices are located on both the north and south side of Tony’s Pizza Events Center (TPEC).

Tickets (wristbands) are available daily at the box office March 14, 15, & 16. Sunday is a short day and it is FREE. Single day is $25 and 3-day is $60. Kids 12 & under are free but require a wristband from the box office so we can try to count everyone to show our sponsors how big this event really is! EquiFest Workshops and Lectures are in two places this year. Come to the 4H Building Stage or to the Workshop Rooms upstairs from the TPEC Lobby (or up the elevator if you choose). The lineup is for learning. We hope you find some thing helpful and interesting!

Check out a few of these:

• Trail Riding Tips from the Trailmeister w Robert Eversole • Finding Your Dream Horse w Julie Goodnight • Fitness for Equestrians w Ifa Simmonds • Riding In College w Sally Batton • Special Coffee Talk Discussions, an informal but entertaining discussion session

Shopping can be found in many locations! Vendors are located in the Tony’s Pizza Events Center around the Arena Concourse and in the Great Plains Manufacturing & Convention Hall (GPMCH). Additionally, at Saline County Expo Center (SCEC). Check out the outside vendors in front of Ag Hall, plus some great food trucks, then wander over to the 4H building and “outback” at the Kenwood Hall. This year, attendees can take a ride in a vendor carriage service situated in front of Barn 2 (Farrier Contest barn).

Food is available at premium food trucks outside Ag Hall or at TPEC Concession stands on both sides of the concourse.

Kids Corral is located on the north TPEC Arena concourse where your littles can unwind and be entertained on some of the great displays and games available. Look for the big red barn.

Clinicians are top notch including Guy McLean, Julie Goodnight, The Diaz Family - Jerry, Staci & Nicolas Diaz, along with Patrick Sullivan and Sally Batton! Watch the schedule to know where you can catch a clinic.

Stall Barn tours happen daily. Meet at the Kansas Horse Council Booth 10 minutes before each scheduled tour time to enjoy a guided stall barn tour to see the Military Encampment and breeds on display. Enjoy the petable mini donkeys!

Arenas are located on both properties. TPEC Arena is where you’ll find clinicians daily, an amazing one-of-a-kind evening show on Thursday and our signature Ranch Rodeo on Friday and Saturday nights. The SCEC Ag Hall Arena is a historic brick building built with 1922 war bonds. It’s a nostalgic arena where you’ll catch competitions, demonstrations, clinics and more. Check the schedule to know where to go! Foundation Silent Auction is a tradition serving as the primary academic scholarship fundraiser for equestrian youth in Kansas. Visit and support Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Another opportunity to support includes the 50/50 raffle during the Ranch Rodeo. Our Kansas Rodeo Royalty are actively involved in supporting the Kansas Horse Council Foundation Scholarship fundraising. If you have questions, be sure to talk to one of these outstanding representatives!

We are so glad you are joining us for the 27th Annual EquiFest of Kansas!

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THURSDAY SCHEDULE

WORKSHOPS TPEC WORKSHOP ROOMS

PrairieLand Partners John Deere Presents AG HALL ARENA 4H State & KQHYA Open Youth Horse Judging Content

PrairieLand Partners John Deere Presents TPEC ARENA

WORKSHOPS 4H STAGE

TIME

TIME

TIME

TIME

ALL DAY

7:45

Legacy Group

9:00

Doors Open

9:00 9:15

Fort Riley Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard Presentation of Colors Fort Riley Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard Demonstration

Doors Open

9:30

Ifa Simmonds The Perfect 5 Minute Mobility Routines

9:30

9:30

Julie Goodnight Horses are the Journey, Not a Destination

9:45

Peruvian Paso

10:00 10:15 10:30

Royal Friesians

Rake Arena

10:30

Robert Eversole The ABCs of Trail Riding

KQHA & 4H Judging/Holding/Rea sons/Awards

Team Competition Speed Event

10:30

10:30

Guy McLean Young Horse Start- First Ride

Preparing for the Unknown on the Ground to Develop a Successful First Ride 11:30 Diaz Family Andalusians 11:45 Julie Goodnight The Natural Ride, Part 1: Balance & Rhythm in the Saddle 12:45 Rake Arena 1:00 Patrick Sullivan Intro to Bridleless Riding 2:00 Horsemanship with the Diaz Family 2:45 American Freedom Riders Drill Team 3:00 Rake Arena 3:30 Guy McLean

11:30

Draft Horse Races

11:30

STALL BARN TOURS Join a representative of Kansas Horse Council on a guided tour through the Stall Barn exhibits and horses, each day! Meet at the Kansas Horse Council booth in TPEC Lobby 5 minutes before tour:

1:15

Coffee Talk with Ifa Simmonds, Sally Batton

& Julie Goodnight Importance of Rider Fitness for Life

2:00

Robert Eversole Front Country Horse Camping. What to Know BEFORE You Go

10:30 - 11:30 2:30 - 3:30 4:00 - 5:00

3:00

Rake & Set Up for Barrel Race

3:30

How Skills of an Australian Stockman May Help Your Horsemanship Goals Julie Goodnight The Natural Ride, Part 2: Cueing, Communication & Control

Sally Batton Riding in College

4:00

4:30

Barrel Race Exhibitions

4:30

Sally Batton Rider Training Tools

5:30

6:00

WPRA & KS NBHA Regional Barrel Race

TPEC ARENA & AG HALL ARENA SPONSORED BY

Rake Arena

6:15

Pee Wees, Youth, Open Run Order

6:30

Parade of Horses & Thank Sponsors

6:45 7:00

PRE SHOW

CELEBRATE EQUIFEST WORLD OF HORSES

10:00

10:00

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Horse Dancers Jerry Diaz Nicolas Diaz Staci Diaz Ruben Little Head

Music, Parade of Horses, Modern Day Horsemanship Staci & Nicolas Diaz, Guy McLean, Ruben Little Head & the Horse Dancers, Red Hawk Horsemanship, Jerry Diaz, and finale Guy McLean. Stay around for a Meet & Greet at the rail Don't miss this one-of-a-kind event happening Thursday evening in TPEC Arena! Pre Show at 6:15pm, Show at 7pm. Horsemanship, Humor, Traditions & Talent in a theatrical display. Come be with us as we Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses!

Caleb Martin Guy McLean Gary S. Pratt

Noella Red Hawk Shane Red Hawk Tashina Red Hawk Patrick Sullivan

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FRIDAY SCHEDULE

WORKSHOPS TPEC WORKSHOP ROOMS

PrairieLand Partners John Deere Presents AG HALL ARENA

PrairieLand Partners John Deere Presents TPEC ARENA

WORKSHOPS 4H STAGE

TIME

TIME

TIME

TIME

ALL DAY

Doors Open

Doors Open

Legacy Group

9:00

Doors Open

9:00 9:15

9:00 9:15

American Freedom Riders Drill Team Present Colors

Fort Riley Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard Presentation of Colors Guy McLean Young Horse Start Day 2 Growing & Developing the Young Horse’s Mind Julie Goodnight Riding to the Next Level Part 1: Nose to Tail Body Control Rake Arena Equine Training Tips with the Diaz Family Fort Riley Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard Tactical Demonstration Guy McLean Inspire to Education for Both Horse & Rider Julie Goodnight Riding to the Next Level Part 2: Collection & Lateral Movements Rake Arena Native American Appaloosa Heritage Horses Peruvian Paso

9:30

9:30

Ifa Simmonds Best Mental & Physical Exercises to Become More Balanced Robert Eversole A Fine & Pleasant Misery - The Hows and Whys of Backcountry Horse Camping

9:30

Clydesdales

9:45

Percherons

Team Competition Coordination

10:00

10:30 10:45

10:30

11:00

Peruvian Paso

11:15 11:30

Royal Friesians

American Freedom Riders Drill Team

11:45

11:45

Coffee Talk Sally Batton

12:00

Draft Horse Races

12:00

IEA’s Jennifer Eaton IHSA Coaches Shana Mattix & Ann White

12:30

Julie Goodnight Find Your Dream Horse

12:15

1:00 Rake Arena & Set Course 1:15 Sally Batton Perfect the Two Point

Catch & Ride Opportunities

1:15

1:30

Robert Eversole Why Wilderness Should Be on Your Ride Bucket List

1:45

Tashina, Noella & Shane Red Hawk Share Native American Traditions Ifa Simmonds Take the Reins Mastering the Mind, Body, Saddle Connection

Remove Props, Rake Arena, Set Up Poles Pole Bending Race

2:15

2:15

2:30

2:30

3:00

3:30

STALL BARN TOURS Join a representative of Kansas Horse Council on a guided tour through the Stall Barn exhibits and horses, each day! Meet at the Kansas Horse Council booth in TPEC Lobby 5 minutes before tour:

Rake Arena & Set Round Pen Patrick Sullivan Intro to Liberty

4:15

4:30

4:30

Royal Friesians

4:45 5:00 5:30

Clydesdales

Percherons Bring cattle in

Open Arena for Ranch Rodeo Participants

5:30

6:00

Ranch Rodeo Team Meeting

10:30 - 11:30 2:45 - 3:45 4:00 - 5:00

Rake Arena

6:25 6:35

6:30

Open Arena

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors 6:45 Ranch Rodeo Team Intros Prayer & Anthem 7:00 RANCH RODEO AT EQUIFEST COMPETITION 2 Events 8:00 Jerry Diaz & Family Half Time Entertainment 8:15 RANCH RODEO AT EQUIFEST COMPETITION 2 Events 10:00

TPEC ARENA & AG HALL ARENA SPONSORED BY

10:00

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SATURDAY SCHEDULE

WORKSHOPS TPEC WORKSHOP ROOMS

PrairieLand Partners John Deere Presents AG HALL ARENA

PrairieLand Partners John Deere Presents TPEC ARENA

WORKSHOPS 4H STAGE

TIME

TIME

TIME

TIME

ALL DAY

Doors Open

Legacy Group

Doors Open

9:00 9:15

9:00

9:00 9:15

Doors Open

Fort Riley Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard Presentation of Colors Julie Goodnight Out of Control? Gaining Authority & Compliance from Your Horse

American Freedom Riders Drill Team Present Colors

9:15

9:30 9:45

9:30

Clydesdales Percherons

Draft Horse Races

10:00

10:00

Ifa Simmonds How to Overcome Balance & Stability Issues Robert Eversole What Really Happens When You Press SOS

Rake Arena

10:30

10:45

Guy McLean Colt Start-Day 3

Advancing the Young Horse. Introducing the Young Horse

11:00

to the Finished Horse, Modeling How to Lead and Be Ridden

Rake Arena

11:45

Diaz Family Building a Connection with your Horse

12:00

12:30

Coffee Talk Guy McLean & Patrick Sullivan Perspectives on Personal Approaches to Liberty Work

Rake Arena Sally Batton Equicize Rake Arena

12:45

Legendary KS Horsemen

12:45

1:00

2:00 Rake Arena & Set Up Obstacles

2:00 2:15

1:30

Julie Goodnight Life Lessons that Horses Teach

Guy McLean Lasting Impressions,

Making the Last Thing You Do with your Horse Be What You Want When You Work With Them Again

2:30

2:30

Team Competition Obstacles

Ifa Simmonds The Eight Best Exercises that

Build a Strong Core & Stabilize Your Position

Rake Arena

3:15 3:30

STALL BARN TOURS Join a representative of Kansas Horse Council on a guided tour through the Stall Barn exhibits and horses, each day! Meet at the Kansas Horse Council booth in TPEC Lobby 5 minutes before tour:

3:30

NATRC Taking Trail Riding to the Next Level Remove Obstacles & Rake Arena Peruvian Paso Royal Friesians Fort Riley Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard Demonstration

Julie Goodnight Expect the Best from the Ground

4:00

Robert Eversole Getting Back in the Saddle

4:30

Patrick Sullivan Working on Advanced Liberty & Bridleless

4:30

4:45 5:00 5:15

Bring cattle in

5:30

Rake Arena

6:00

6:30

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Ranch Rodeo Team Intros Prayer & Anthem RANCH RODEO AT EQUIFEST COMPETITION 2 Events Guy McLean Half Time Entertainment RANCH RODEO AT EQUIFEST COMPETITION 2 Events

11:30 - 12:30 2:45 - 3:45 4:00 - 5:00

6:45

TPEC ARENA & AG HALL ARENA SPONSORED BY

5:30 American Freedom Riders Drill Team 5:45 Open Arena for Ranch Rodeo Participants 6:00 Ranch Rodeo Team Meeting 6:30 Open Arena

7:00

8:00

8:15

10:00

10:00

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SUNDAY SCHEDULE

PrairieLand Partners John Deere Presents AG HALL ARENA

WORKSHOPS 4H STAGE

TPEC ARENA & AG HALL ARENA SPONSORED BY

TIME

TIME

Complimentary Chris Cakes Breakfast for ALL KHC Annual Meeting, Updates & Awards Pastor Steve Stafford Cowboy Church Adjourn to Ag Hall Arena Breakaway Roping Competition

9:00 10:30

7:45

Breakaway Competition Check in Opens Breakaway Jackpot Open Youth, Peewee Run Order

8:15

12:00

9:15

10:30

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CLINICIANS

GUY McLEAN Guy McLean started his life and subsequently his career with horses by working at his family’s 1660-acre Homestead Resort in the Queensland Bush, where he would be responsible for 50 plus trail riding horses. From training horses to becoming suited trail horses for guests with no riding experience to being head trail boss looking after horse and rider on 2.5 hour rides through the bush. Guy’s dream was to share these amazing animals with a larger audience, but how would this shy boy do that? An opportunity presented itself when Guy’s father, Norm, found out about Guy’s love for bush poetry and wanted him

to recite the ‘Man from Snowy River’ poem for 100 travel agents that were going to be staying at the Homestead. Guy only agreed to it if he could have his horse with him which gave him the strength and confi dence to make it his own. So, Guy’s entertaining career began with riding his stallion, Nugget , bridleless and saddleless into the middle of his father’s restaurant, reciting poetry for 1 hour for 100 people at a time. The word had gotten out about the “Horseman from Susan River” on his stallion and they soon started performing at fes tivals, on music stages, and leading street parades. Since then, Guy now has three amazing liberty perform ance teams on two continents demonstrating his complete and utter dedication to everything that is horse. They have been featured at many major Australian, USA, and Canadian events such as Royal shows, Equitana Asia Pacific, Dressage Festivals, International Rodeos, World Cup Showjumping Events, World Equestrian Games, NY Central Park Horse Show and also performing with his four Australian stock horses live on stage for Australia’s Got Talent. Although Guy has always identified himself as a horseman, first and foremost Guy's tal ents with Bush Poetry have seen him twice being crowned Australian Bush Poet Champion in 2002 and 2006 along with the great honor of being named an official Ambassador of the Outback. His awards don’t stop there though and his most treasured triumphs are winning two World Championships of Road to the Horse in 2012 & 2013 and an Australian Champion at Equitana Australia’s Way of the Horse in 2005. His most recent title has been being named the first Official Australian Stock Horse Ambassador, which is one of the most honored appointments of his career thus far. Guy’s performances are known for being inspiring, educational, and above all entertaining for both young and old and for both the horse enthusiast and the uninitiated alike. Guy has taken Australia to the world through his horsemanship, bush poetry, and double-handed stockwhip cracking with his team of Australian bred OG’s, USA born equine family members, and his two World Champion legends, by his side packing out 5,000+ seat arenas to watch their demos on what it is to be a Lifetime Horseman and a proud Australian Stockman. With all these achievements under his belt, Guy wants to continue to share what a shy boy from a small country town can achieve with passion and desire. Guy wants to be able to inspire and educate people from all walks of life from around the world on his many tours. It is his ongoing desire to create shows to inspire the younger generation, as they are so crucial to our future for our equine and agricultural industries as it is they who will be the next great horsemen, stockmen, cowboys, and farmers across all countries. Guy’s Schedule Thursday w 10:30 w TPEC Arena w Young Horse Start; First Ride Thursday w 3:30 w TPEC Arena w How Skills of Australian Stockman May Help Your Horsemanship Goals Thursday w 7:00 w TPEC Arena w DON'T MISS THIS SPECIAL THURSDAY NIGHT SHOW Friday w 9:30 w TPEC Arena w Young Horse Start Day2, Growing & Developing the Young Mind Friday w 2:30 w TPEC Arena w Inspire to Educate, Both Horse & Rider Saturday w 10:45 w TPEC Arena w Young Horse Start Day 3, Introducing Young to FInished, Modeling How to Be Ridden Saturday w 12:30 w 4H Stage w Coffee Talk Discussion Saturday w 2:00 w TPEC Arena w Lasting Impressions, Making the Last Work Session the First Work Session Next Saturday w 8:00 w TPEC Arena, w Ranch Rodeo HALFTIME Performance

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CLINICIANS

JULIE GOODNIGHT Julie Goodnight established a connection with horses at a young age, and after a successful run as a youth rider on jumping horses, she galloped her way through college riding racehorses. For nearly four decades, she’s been at home in the Colorado Rockies, pursuing wilderness sports and riding cow horses. Founding her training busi ness in 1985, Julie’s reputation as a horse trainer grew far and wide. In 2008, she began producing Horse Master with Julie Goodnight, a popular how-to horse training series that aired weekly for more than a decade with 260 episodes. She now travels the world to produce compelling horse TV, and educates horse owners everywhere through her online training programs at JulieGoodnight.com/Academy

Julie’s Schedule Thursday w 9:30 w 4H Stage w Horses Are the Journey, Not a Destination Thursday w 11:45 w TPEC Arena w The Natural Ride Part 1, Balance & Rhythm in the Saddle Thursday w 1:00 w 4H Stage w Coffee Talk Discussion Thursday w 4:30 w TPEC Arena w The Natural Ride Part 2, Cueing, Communication & Control Friday w 10:45 w TPEC Arena w Riding to the Next Level Part 1, Nose to Tail Body Control Friday w 12:30 w TPEC Workshop Room w Find Your Dreamhorse Friday w 3:30 w TPEC Arena w Riding to the Next Level Part 2, Collection & Lateral Movements Saturday w 9:30 w TPEC Arena w Out of Control? Gaining Authority & Compliance from your Horse Saturday w 1:30 w 4H Stage w Life Lessons That Horses Teach Saturday w 3:30 w TPEC Arena w Expect the Best from the Ground (Round Pen Work)

SALLY BATTON Sally Batton was Director of Riding at Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH, and head coach of the Varsity Equestrian Team for 30 years. She was named the American Riding Instructor’s Association 2008 Instructor of the Year, was awarded the 2013 Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) Lifetime Achievement Award, was inducted in the 2020 IHSA Hall of Fame class and is the Founder of the Athletic Equestrian League. In 2022, Sally Batton’s book, The Athletic Equestrian, was published. Whether competing in the show ring or riding at home on the trail, every rider wants to be more secure and balanced in the saddle. This innovative guide uses highly effective exercises honed over Coach Sally’s 35-year coaching career.

Sally’s Schedule Thursday w 1:00 w 4H Stage w Coffee Talk Discussion Thursday w 4:00 w 4H Stage w Riding in College Thursday w 5:30 w TPEC Arena w Rider Training Tools Friday w 11:45 w 4H Stage w Coffee Talk Discussion Friday w 2:15 w Ag Hall Arena w Perfect the Two-Point Saturday w 1:00 w TPEC Arena w Equicize

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CLINICIANS

JERRY DIAZ Gerardo "Jerry" Diaz comes from the exciting world of Mexican horsemanship and rodeo. A true Charro, Diaz makes his living fol lowing the grand tradition of his heritage in Mexico. He performs his horsemanship skills and rope artistry at rodeos around the country, producing and directing Mexican Rodeo Extravaganzas and eques trian events for special entertainment. Jerry Diaz embodies all of the qualifications of the Charro's strict code of honor that includes chival ry, high ethics, expert horsemanship, and dedication to family and Charro traditions. He has earned the Federation of Charros' Golden Spur Award for his outstanding contributions and commitment to the Charro tradition. Famed for his expertise with the maguey rope, Jerry is a renowned crowd pleaser. Unaided by swivels or gimmicks, he spins the rope with ease while on foot, riding, or standing atop his horse. He was inducted into the Texas Trail of Fame, Cowboys of Color in Fort Worth, and the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Jerry’s Schedule Thursday w 2:00 w TPEC Arena w Horsemanship with the Diaz Family Thursday w 7:00 w TPEC Arena w DON'T MISS THIS SPECIAL THURSDAY NIGHT SHOW Friday w 12:15 w TPEC Arena w Equine Training Tips with the Diaz Family Friday w 8:00 w TPEC Arena w Ranch Rodeo HALFTIME Performance Saturday w 12:00 w TPEC Arena w Building a Connection with Your Horse, Diaz Family

NICOLAS DIAZ Nicolas Diaz is a fifth-generation horseman. He is the son of horseman Charro Jerry Diaz and horsewoman Staci Anderson Diaz. Horsemanship runs deep in his blood. His father, Jerry Diaz, carried him atop his first horse when he was only 3 days old. Nicolas has continued to ride ever since that day. He has been a very successful trainer and competitor. He has won over 20 national champion titles. In 2022, Nicolas was awarded the “Youth Horseman of the Year” award. In 2022 and 2023 he was awarded the “Elite Horseman of the Year” Award. He has per formed at some of the most prestigious shows and rodeos in the world. Including the National Western Stock Show, Fort Worth Stock Show, Equine Affaire, Ponoka Stampede, Houston Rodeo,

Rolex Jump Offs, and the Pennsylvania Horse Expo just to name a few. Nicolas is riding Jalon pronounced Halon, a 12-year-old black Andalusian stallion imported from Barcelona, Spain. The horse has won four national titles and has been training with Nicolas for 6 years and been performing for the past 3 years. Jalon is used for breeding at the Diaz Ranch and has produced beautiful offspring.

Nicholas’ Schedule Thursday w 2:00 w TPEC Arena w Horsemanship with the Diaz Family Thursday w 7:00 w TPEC Arena w DON'T MISS THIS SPECIAL THURSDAY NIGHT SHOW Friday w 12:15 w TPEC Arena w Equine Training Tips with the Diaz Family Friday w 8:00 w TPEC Arena w Ranch Rodeo HALFTIME Performance Saturday w 12:00 w TPEC Arena, w Building a Connection with Your Horse, Diaz Family

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CLINICIANS

STACI ANDERSON-DIAZ Staci Anderson-Diaz has entertained audiences all across the US at some of the most prestigious shows. She has performed in her father’s Wild West Shows, rodeos, fairs and circuses since she was 3 years old. She is a third generation per former and artist mostly known for her Roman Riding six up team of horses, driv ing horses in tandem while standing atop the back team, dancing horses, trick rid ing and stunt doubling in several movies. Passed down through generations, Staci comes from a family who has a history with Liberty and Dancing/High Schooled trained Horses. Both her parents and grandparents were equine and animal train ers and performers. Watch Staci interact with this beautiful black Andalusian stal lion Conquisto while working at Liberty. With their thundering hooves and flowing manes, horses are one of God's most majestic creatures. The horse’s beauty unsurpassed, strength and immeasurable grace unlike any other.

Staci’s Schedule Thursday w 2:00 w TPEC Arena w Horsemanship with the Diaz Family Thursday w 7:00 w TPEC Arena w DON'T MISS THIS SPECIAL THURSDAY NIGHT SHOW Friday w 12:15 w TPEC Arena w Equine Training Tips with the Diaz Family Friday w 8:00 w TPEC Arena, w Ranch Rodeo HALFTIME Performance Saturday w 12:00 w TPEC Arena w Building a Connection with Your Horse, Diaz Family

PATRICK SULLIVAN At 26 years old, Patrick took his first horsemanship lesson in March 2015. He did not grow up around horses, nor was he passionate about them until much later in life. Patrick grew up in Dallas, TX but was not involved with horses, instead had a passion for soccer. He played high school, collegiate, and pro fessional soccer. Patrick coached collegiate soccer for 4 years starting in 2011 and was the head soccer coach for a high school. In 2015, Patrick graduated with his MBA in International Management from the University of Houston-Victoria. Once Patrick found horses in 2015, he was hooked. He was con stantly learning and wanting to develop his skills. Over the past 8 years, he has accomplished as much as he could have ever imagined in such a short period of time. He has developed a

passion for liberty horsemanship and the power it has to transform the horse-human connection. During the 8 years, Patrick has done the following: studied and interned with Ryan Rose, professional Brooklyn, WI, and worked with Dan James, of Double Dan Horsemanship from 2019 to 2021. Since then, he has competed in the Mustang Makeover (TX), finishing Top 20 and second in the newcomers. He finished second in the Freestyle Pro Division in the ILHA Championships 2020. He started a non-profit called Gamilah Unbridled that helps provide liberty horsemanship to youth and rescue horses. Through Gamilah Unbridled, Patrick accomplished the following: Riding 2500 miles from California Kentucky completely bridleless. Visited 20 non-profits. Rescue Horse Project – transforming seven of the toughest rescue horses in the country using only liberty techniques. The Extra Mile – turning some of the most challenging rescue horses into advanced liberty horses. Upon completion, they were working in four-horse liberty teams. Earned the Grand Champion title in the 2022 Appalachian Trainer Face Off professional division.

Patrick’s Schedule Wednesday w 9-3:30 w Ag Hall Arena w Auditor Opportunities Available $25 Thursday w 1:00 w TPEC Arena, w Intro to Bridleless Riding Thursday w 6:45 w TPEC Arena w DON'T MISS THIS SPECIAL THURSDAY PERFORMANCE! Friday w 4:30 w Ag Hall Arena w Intro to Liberty Saturday w 12:30 w 4H Stage w Coffee Talk Discussion Saturday w 4:30 w TPEC Arena w W orking on Advanced Liberty & BridleLess

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WORKSHOP SPEAKERS

Robert Eversole Robert Eversole, "The TrailMeister," owns and operates the world's largest horse trail and horse camp guide. Internationally rec ognized clinician, keynote speaker, riding instructor, and author of the

Ifa Simmonds

best-selling book The ABCs of Trail Riding and Horse Camping. Robert "The TrailMeister" coaches horse own ers of every experience level on how to enjoy trail riding and camping with equines. He shares his experiences and explains what works (and why!) and what hasn't worked over the decades he's been riding, camping, and packing across the continent. A refugee from corporate America, Robert built the world's largest guide to horse trails and camps, www.TrailMeister.com, when he found that accu rate information was unavailable. In his clinics and trail rid ing columns in leading equine publications, Robert draws from his experiences as a veteran of the US Marine Corps, a PATH-certified riding instructor, and decades of teaching equestrian and outdoor skills. Robert's passion is provid ing educational and entertaining information to help horse owners move past their fears and on to their ambitions and dreams of trail riding and horse camping. He emphasizes practical horsemanship and outdoor skills in his trail riding and camping clinics. TrailMeister clinics and the website are filled with practical, workable information that every rider and camper can use. Web visitors and clinic atten dees will leave with the tools and confidence they need to enjoy the great outdoors safely. Robert helps riders realize their goals. When not on the trail, Robert belongs to a mule named Ruger and a dog named Boo . Thursday w 10:30 w 4H Stage w The ABC's of Trail Riding Thursday w 2:00 w 4H Stage w Front Country Horse Camping—What to know before you go Fri day w 10:30 w TPEC Workshop Room w A Fine & Pleasant Misery—The Hows and Whys of Back Country Horse camping Fri day w 1:30 w TPEC Workshop Room w Why Wilder- ness Camping Should Be on Your Ride Bucket List Saturday w 11:00 w TPEC Workshop Room w What Really Happens When you Press SOS Saturday w 4 :00 w TPEC Workshop Room w Getting Back In the Saddle

Ifa Simmonds is a certified fitness performance coach for equestrians with over a decade of experience and creator of The Equestrian Fitness Academy (EFA). He empowers riders through holistic fitness and wellness programs to enhance their performance in the saddle. His primary goal is helping riders improve their riding fitness with greater stability, suppleness, strength, and stamina in the saddle. He's trained a host of disciplines, from trail riders to com petitive professional dressage, eventing, western pleas ure, reining, hunter/jumper riders and their riding coaches. Ifa brings his expertise in functional fitness, yoga, and pilates to EFA through education and certifications. He is a clinician, writer, and presenter who's been on the speaking circuit at Equine Affaire Ohio and Massachusetts. He also enjoys working with different organizations and is featured on multiple podcasts. EFA is the leading holistic fitness coaching program for equestrians in English and western disciplines dedicated to enhancing balance, position, and athleticism. Thursday w 9:30 w TPEC Workshop Room w Perfect 5 Minute Mobility Routines Thursday w 1:00 w 4H Stage w Coffee Talk Discussion Friday w 9:30 w TPEC Workshop Room w Best Mental & Physical Exercises to Become More Balanced Friday w 3:00 w 4H Stage w Take the Reins—Mastering Mind, Body & Saddle Connection Saturday w 10:00 w TPEC Workshop Room w How to Overcome Balance & Stability Issues Saturday w 2:30 w 4H Stage w The Eight Best Exercises That Build Strong Core & Stabilize Your Position Please support our

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LEGENDARY KANSAS HORSEMEN

The Legendary Kansas Horsemen’s panel features talented horse men and women who have achieved high recognition such as Hall of Fame status for themselves or their horse, who have provided outstanding service to the equine industry in some capacity or who have earned high winnings in their discipline. It’s a great opportunity to hear their stories directly with reflections on past and present expe riences, and we can pick up some sage advice from them too!

Saturday w 12:45 w TPEC Workshop Room

Russ Wiegers , Certified Farrier, was a country kid born and raised in western Kansas. He started shoeing horses when he was 18 years old and has continued for 46 years. Russ grew up with horses his whole life which aided in his decision to become a farrier. Russ attended Oklahoma State Horseshoeing School in Ardmore, OK. Over the years, he has shod a large variety of horses, from feedlot horses to specialty and therapeutic horses. He continued his education by joining several farrier associations including the Kansas Farriers Association and the American Farriers Association. Russ achieved his Certified Farrier sta tus in 2018. Russ is passionate about continuing education to uphold the integrity of the far rier profession and has mentored several young farriers with their careers.

Ann White i s the owner and head trainer at Vermillion Valley Equine Center and current ly serves as the IHSA English Head Coach for Kansas State University. She began riding as a child and her love of horses carried into her adult life as she began teaching lessons and training horses. Throughout her career, she has led several riders to success at local and national competitions as well as having several students, including two of her own daughters, compete on National Collegiate Equestrian Association Programs. Ann has a long history with Kansas Horse Council (KHC). She was the founder of EquiFest of KS and served on the Kansas Horse Council Board as a past President. Ann has contributed to KHC for many years as a board member and advisor. Her passion for promoting the equine industry in Kansas is well known. Ann has been a member of the Kansas Hunter Jumper Association for 40 years where she has also served on the board supporting competition opportunities for English enthusiasts. She owns the Basement Tack and Apparel Shop in Wamego, as a retailer for the Hunter Jumper and other English discipline needs.

Gary Wiggins Academy of Western Artists selected Gary Wiggins as Bit and Spur Maker of the Year in 2017. Gary Wiggins has been a full-time bit and spur maker since the mid 90's. Along with bits and spurs, he has spent many hours building conchos, bridle buckles, belt buckles, trophy buck les, saddle silver, saddle hardware, jewelry, etc.—anything to do with cowboy gear. He learned how to build bits and spurs mostly by watching others and picking up tips from many bit and spur makers over the years. He has great respect for friends like Russell Yates, Ernie Marsh, Mark Dahl, Jerry Cates, among many others. Wiggins has taught both the art of silver smithing and bit and spur mak ing to students that come to his shop and the local high school. Gary's dad, Denzil Wiggins, was a silversmith and Gary learned how to work silver, cut silver, and solder silver from him. Most of the tools and equipment Gary uses today are "hand me downs" from Denzil. Gary has been the subject of magazine articles over the years such as Western Horseman , Ranch World Ads , Eclectic Horseman and newspapers. He has been awarded the Adolf Bayers award in 2015 as well as a "Best of Show" and a couple of "People’s Choice" Awards at the Art of The Cowboy Makers Contest. Wiggins lives with his wife and business partner, Cynthia, and together they own a small cow calf operation in northwest Kansas, south of the little town of Brewster. After 20 years in the business, Gary still has a fire and passion for making quality gear made for the cowboy. He says, "It is a great honor to do what I do for a living, Our cup runneth over."

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SPECIAL DEMOS

Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard

The First Infantry Division Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard is a special ceremonial unit that provides community relations and ceremonial support to the First Infantry Division, Fort Riley, and the United States Army at the local, regional, and national levels. This is one of only six remaining equestrian units in the Army.

CGMCG’s Schedule:

Thursday Presentation of Colors w 9:15 w TPEC Arena Demonstration w 9:30-9:45 w TPEC Arena Competition—Team Challenge w 10:30-11:30 w Ag Hall Arena Stall Barn Tours w 10:30-11:30 Stall Barn Tours w 2:30-3:30 Stall Barn Tours w 4:00-5:00 Celebrate EquiFest-World of Horses Parade w 6:15 w TPEC Arena Friday Presentation of Colors w 9:15 w TPEC Arena Competition—Team Challenge w 10:00-1:00 w Ag Hall Arena Tactical Demonstration w 1:15-2:15 w TPEC Arena

Saturday Presentation of Colors w 9:15 w TPEC Arena Stall Barn Tours w 11:3-12:30 Ag Hall Arena Challenge w 2:30-3:30 Stall Barn Tours w 2:45-3:45 Stall Barn Tours w 4:00-5:00 Grand Entry Ranch Rodeo w 6:45 w PEC Arena

Stall Barn Tours w 2:45-3:45 Stall Barn Tours w 4:00-5:00 Grand Entry Ranch Rodeo w 6:45 w TPEC Arena

Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses

Don't miss this one-of-a-kind event happening Thursday evening in TPEC Arena! Horsemanship, Humor, Traditions & Talent in a theatrical display. Come be with us as we Celebrate EquiFest World of Horses!

Thursday w 6:00 w TPEC Arena

Featuring: Horse Dancers Jerry Diaz Nicolas Diaz Staci Diaz Ruben Little Head

Caleb Martin Guy McLean Gary S. Pratt

Noella Red Hawk Shane Red Hawk Tashina Red Hawk Patrick Sullivan

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SPECIAL DEMOS American Freedom Riders Drill Team

The American Freedom Riders Drill Team from North Central Kansas return to EquiFest once again to entertain in both are nas throughout the weekend. They offer a look at the many var ious routines they have prepared for various rodeos, festivals, and parades. This team, established in 2012, has appeared in the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant, Abilene’s Chisholm Trail Days, the Lawrence Old Fashioned Christmas Horse Parade, the Scott City Rodeo, the Kansas State Fair, Veterans and Military events, and various other events throughout Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri. Sometimes the group can be found helping with cowboy camp or giving pony rides. This group loves riding and loves celebrating this great country, our military, and the emergency responders who work hard to pro tect us. God Bless America! Thursday: Breed & Demo Showcase w 2:45-3:00 w TPEC Arena Celebrate EquiFest-World of Horses Parade w 6:15 w TPEC Arena Friday: Presentation of Colors w 9:15-9:30 w Ag Hall Arena Breed & Demo Showcase w 11:30-12:00 w Ag Hall Arena

Saturday: Presentation of Colors w 9:15-9:30 w Ag Hall Arena Breed & Demo Showcase w 5:30 w TPEC Arena

Kansas Western Horseman’s Association

Kansas Western Horseman’s Association better known across the state as KWHA is starting its 76th year. This Association is a family-oriented asso ciation that encourages good sportsmanship and cooperation among the riding clubs of Kansas. Friendships have been fostered and built through many generations of families in this association. KWHA welcomes all riding clubs in the state with no breed requirement, only that western gear and attire are used. There are judged, race, pair, and team events held during the local shows with riders of all ages and skill levels competing in seven different age divisions. A year-end show of champions is usually held on Labor Day weekend where everyone who wants to gather and compete can. KWHA is a great way to take an entire family out to enjoy their equine

partner, friends, and have some fun all at an affordable cost. Come check out KWHA during their demonstrations in the arenas and meet some of their members at their booth in the Great Plains Manufacturing Convention Hall. You can also look them up on their website www.kwhaonline.com.

COMPETITIONS

Thursday: Team Challenge w 10:30-11:30 w Ag Hall Arena Friday: Team Challenge w 10:00-11:00 w Ag Hall Arena Host of Pole Bending w 2:30-4:00 w Ag Hall Arena Saturday: Team Challenge w 2:30-3:30 w Ag Hall Arena

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SPECIAL DEMOS

North American Trail Ride Conference Members of the North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC) will give you an introduction to competitive trail riding (CTR). Learn how to take your enjoy ment of trail riding to a whole new level. This distance riding sport encourages horsemanship and welcomes all breeds, disciplines, and riders from ages 8 and up. CTR is a great way to build your relationship with your horse and grow as a rider. NATRC is the organization with experience since 1961!

Saturday: Taking Trail Riding to the Next Level w 3:30-4:30 w Ag Hall Arena

KIDS CORRAL

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BREED GROUPS

Andalusian The Andalusian, also known as the Pure Spanish Horse or PRE (pura raza española), is a horse breed from the Iberian Peninsula, where its ancestors have lived for thousands of years. The Andalusian has been recognized as a distinct breed since the 15th century, and its conformation has changed very little over the centuries. Throughout its history, it has been known for its prowess as a war horse and was prized by the nobility. The breed was used as a tool of diplomacy by the Spanish government. Kings across Europe rode and owned Spanish horses. During the 19th century, warfare, disease and crossbreeding reduced herd numbers dramatically and despite some recovery in the late 19th century, the trend continued into the early 20th century. Exports of Andalusians from Spain were restricted until the 1960s but the breed has since spread throughout the world despite their low population. In 2010, there were more than 185,000 registered Andalusians worldwide. The Diaz family are very proud of the talented Andalusian horses who are part of their family.

Stall Barn Tours each day. Thursday w 1:30 w TPEC Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase

Appaloosa The Red Hawk Family presents the Appaloosa. The Appaloosa horse breed is famous for its distinctive patterned coat. The two horses that Shane and Tashina Red Hawk ride are known as Leopard Appaloosas. The stud of these two geldings registered name is Iron Gyro , a stud from the Heritage Appaloosa Ranch in Livingston, Montana. This bloodline dates to the Nez Perce horse. The Nez Perce horse is a spotted horse breed derived from old line Appaloosa (the Wallowa herd) and Central Asians horse belonging to the Akhal-Teke breed. These Appaloosa’s fascinating spotting patterns are collectively known as the leopard complex. Any horse that displays Appaloosa core characteris tics, such as the distinctive coat patterns, the mottled skin, the striped hooves, and the visible white sclera, is a carrier of at least one allele of the dominant leopard complex (LP) gene. Compared to the Quarter Horses that were bred into the Appaloosa breed from the 1870s and onward, the Nez Perce is a longer and leaner horse with a longer back and more narrow shoulders. Overall, it is often described as looking like a “lean runner.” The Nez Perce

horse is a good long-distance horse and many Nez Perce horses have performed admirably in endurance races. The Nez Perce horses are often gaited with a fast and smooth-running walk that makes them comfortable to ride. The Red Hawk’s horses, Maza Tokala (Iron Warrior) and Akitchita Maza (Iron Soldier), are revered as relatives in the family. They are adorned by pieces of traditional Lakota Regalia that the horse and rider has earned!

Stall barn tours each day. Friday w 1:45 w TPEC Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase Clydesdale

High Limit Farm Clydesdales, LLC present the Clydesdale draft breed originated in Scotland and spread across the world in the late 1700s and early 1800s as a work ing animal. In 1975, the population of the Clydesdale breed dropped to near extinc tion. Clydesdales are making a comeback now and moved to “watch” status in America. Less than 600 horses are registered annually and it is estimated that fewer than 5,000 exist worldwide. The growing popularity supported by Budweiser Hitch and others promoting this draft breed through showing, driving and even events like barrel racing and dressage are helping grow the numbers. Stall barn tours each day. Thursday w 6:00 w TPEC w Celebrate EquiFest Parade of Horses Friday & Saturday w 9:30 w Ag Hall Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase

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BREED GROUPS Percheron

KB Breeding presents Percheron Stallions. The Percheron draft breed originated in France. Usually gray or black in color, Percherons are well-muscled, and known for their intelligence and willingness to work. The current United States Percheron registry was created in 1934. In the 1930s, Percherons accounted for 70% of the draft horse population in the United States but their numbers declined substantially after World War II. However, the population began to recover and as of 2009 around 2,500 Percheron horses were registered annually in the United States alone.

Stall barn tours each day. Friday w 9:45 w Ag Hall Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase Friday w 5:00 w TPEC Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase Saturday w 9:45 & 5:00 w Ag Hall Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase

Peruvian Paso The Peruvian Paso originated from horses brought over to the Americas by the Spanish conquistadors who were typically mounted on Andalusians, Barbs and the now-extinct Jennet. The Jennet breed of horse is perhaps the most important part of the Peruvian Paso bloodline as the Jennet was known for its unique four-beat ambling gait. The horses who traveled west across South America to Peru stayed isolated in that coastal country caught between the Pacific and the Andes. The Peruvian Paso has a four-beat ambling lateral gait that is very smooth to ride. In Peru, the Peruvian Paso was being bred specifically to cover long distances on mountain trails, creating a smooth-riding horse with a big, ground-covering stride (this breed also developed termino, or the outward swing of the front legs.) This differs from Paso Fino gaits which developed into smooth and quick-moving strides while maintaining the distinct four beats. Peruvians are a rare breed. There are only about 20,000 in the United

States, compared to roughly 5 million registered Quarter Horses. Only about 50 purebred foals are born each year in the U.S. They’re the ideal choice for the rider who appreciates the depth of character, willing disposition and ultra-smooth glide over whatever terrain you choose to conquer. For more information and to find Peruvians near you, visit the North American Peruvian Horse Association online. You can see more of the Peruvian horse at the Heartland Peruvian Classic horse show in Topeka May 25-26.

Walkadonk Mini Donkey Walkadonk Acres has been raising mini donkeys for over 20 years in Brighton, Missouri. See the Walkadonk Mini Donkeys in the Stall Barn daily! Come pet these lovable little critters—they’re sure to make you smile!

Stall barn tours each day. Thursday w 9:45 w TPEC Arena w Breed Showcase Thursday w 6:00 w TPEC Arena w Celebrate EquiFest Parade of Horses Friday w 11:00 w Ag Hall Arena w Breed Showcase Friday w 12:00 w TPEC Arena w Breed Showcase Saturday w 4:45 w Ag Hall w Breed Showcase

Stall barn tours each day.

Royal Friesians The Friesian horse is best known for its black color and luxurious mane, soft eyes, long flowing tail and feathers on their fetlocks. They are the fairy tale dream horse. The temperament of the Friesian is one of pure kindness, curiosity, and extreme gentle disposition. Friesians are the favorite of horse trainers at exhibi tion shows because they learn quickly, demonstrating the clinician’s teaching skills, and allow audiences to see their capabilities to take on new tasks quickly. Stall barn tours each day.

Thursday w 10:00 w TPEC Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase Thursday w 6:00 w TPEC Arena w Celebrate EquiFest Parade of Horses Friday w 11:15 w Ag Hall Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase Friday w 4:30 w TPEC Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase Saturday w 5:00 w Ag Hall Arena w Breed & Demo Showcase

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