Thank you Youth Sponsors
Young Guns Division 7-9 Year Old Youth Competitors
Stillman Elkington
Stillman Elkington is the pride and joy of Chace and Megan Elkington, where superior genetics of heart, grit, and work ethic came together perfectly eight years ago. His favorite place to be is on the back of a pony, alongside his family, happily tagging along with whatever his brothers are doing. Stillman has the kindest soul and a joyful spirit, always smiling, yet he carries a quiet competitiveness that shines through in everything he does. This handy little cowboy is completely content with his pony, a rifle, and a fishing pole. An old soul in a young body, Stillman finds peace in simple, meaningful work. Whether he’s training ponies, trailing cows, or stepping in to help someone else, he does it all with a cheerful heart and a willing attitude. Stillman is currently starting a three-year-old mare named Smidge, continuing his journey as a young horseman grounded in family, tradition, and a genuine love for the ranching way of life.
Lifton Hart
Lifton loves to help gather cattle with Banana. Starting a pony on his own is new to him. Snowfire will be the first. She was broke to drive two years ago, and then had a foal. Snowfire’s owner decided she was too small for their needs and asked if we knew anyone that would want to purchase her. Lifton instantly fell in love with her and wanted to ride her. He climbed on her bareback, and was dumped off. This didn’t deter him at all. Then he began to saddle her and lead her around. We hauled her to the mountains when we were gathering cattle, just so she could see the sites. He decided to ride her after we gathered cows. She was reluctant to go away from the trailer and didn’t hesitate to show it. I got the tamer portion of the ride captured on video. A little while later, she was much more willing! Lifton is excited to see what else he can accomplish with her!
Rising Renegades Division-10-13 years Old
Statler Elkington
Statler Elkington comes from an exceptional pedigree, out of the prime stock of Chace and Megan Elkington, and has been immersed in ranch life from a very young age. From the beginning, Statler’s true passion has been training horses, dogs, and ponies. Even as a young child, he showed a natural ability and deep interest in starting and working with ponies, a passion that has only grown stronger over time and become nearly singular in focus. Statler possesses a rare combination of patience, instinct, and drive that sets him apart as a young horseman. His talent extends beyond training into the arena, where he is an exceptional roper. Known as a real live wire on the end of a rope, Statler excels as a heeler, bringing speed, timing, and determination to every run. His natural talent, strong work ethic, and love for what he does make him a standout both on the ranch and in competition. Statler is especially proud to be starting a promising Quarter Pony from his grandpa Elkington’s ranch. He calls her Pursey, a fitting name, because he’s confident she’s going to bring home all the money. Together, they represent the next generation of horsemanship, built on family tradition, hard work, and a genuine love for the craft.
Trent Price
Hi. My name is Trent Price and im 13 years old. Ive been riding with my dad since I was very young. I started my first mule when I was 11 and took her to tropic utah and sold her there and was top seller in the youth division. I love working any and all animals. I also love to weld and build bits,spurs and horse shoe art with my dad. My dad trained Otis mom in trade we got Otis. He was a very spooky flighty yearling horse when we got him. His mom was registered 14 hand mare and his dad was a registered 14 hand stud. Otis is little but I think he will be built like a bulldog. My goal is to make him a good calm horse that kids can learn off of and enjoy him. Thank you for this opertunity and I look forward to showing him.
Blaze Elkington
Blaze Elkington is a 10-year-old son of Chace and Megan Elkington, coming from an outstanding pedigree known for brains, good looks, and an exceptional work ethic. Blaze has a high tolerance for risk and a fearless mindset, always willing to be all in. Known as the family’s wild man, he has never shied away from riding the tough ones and is never afraid of failure, viewing every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Blaze is currently starting out with his pony, Sniper, a name that fits him perfectly. While he enjoys horses and ranch life, Blaze’s true passions are hunting and fishing, pursuits he loves just as much as life itself. Bold, adventurous, and full of grit, Blaze brings energy, courage, and heart to everything he does, making him a standout young cowboy with a spirit that can’t be contained.
Abbie Butikofer
My name is Abbie Butikofer and I am 12 years old. I have been riding horses nearly all my life. I have participated in horse 4-H the last 4 years. Some of my hobbies are riding horses, showing goats, playing fiddle, and being in the outdoors. I chose to compete with my pony, Summer, because I want to give her some exposure and more experience. Summer is 3 years old, and is a registered POA. She is very willing, she’s quiet, and gentle. Summer is a flashy red roan and I’m excited to compete with her.
Kacen Parry
I love roping, football, hunting, and anything outdoors. I have had some great beginner horses and a tough pony that like to run away. After a few accidents, I struggle with fear and confidence with speed.
Last year, spending time with Cliff Schadt inspired me to learn colt starting for myself. I was honored to be mentored by Wayne Peebles, and with his guidance and the help of my riding coach Kenzie, we got Petey started the right way! It hasn’t been easy—Petey even bronc-bucked me straight out of the saddle, then hit my head down all the panels—but we kept going.
Sadly, my mentor Wayne passed away unexpectedly last fall, I chose to dedicate this ride to his memory. Today, I ride to overcome fear, honor my mentor Wayne by showing up anyway, ride with heart, cuz if this was easy then everyone would do it!
Judge Joanne Richey
With nearly four decades of equine experience, I've garnered extensive knowledge from working with horses of various sizes. Through personal experiences and guidance from esteemed instructors, I've refined my expertise.
I'm eager to share this knowledge with enthusiasts of miniature horses, emphasizing safety for both handlers and animals. Effective communication and clear concise cues are cornerstones of my training approach.
My background spans multiple disciplines, including reining, dressage, English and Western pleasure, and extreme trail challenges. As a licensed trail guide in Idaho, I previously led clients on mountain trail excursions.
Now, focused on miniature horses, I enjoy carting and obstacles, driving, and jumping activities.