AQHA Recognizes 50-Year Breeder

The American Quarter Horse Association, Amarillo – The American Quarter Horse Association honored this year's 50-year breeders at a ceremony October 22 at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in Amarillo. William and Anne McKinney of Broadus, Montana, were honored as cumulative breeders.

"The heart of our program was continuing time-honored traditions of cattle and land stewardship," Bill says. "Our horses contributed greatly to continuing those traditions."

Through the years, Bill and Anne have consistently aimed to produce horses that embody certain key traits. Ultimately, their goal remains to produce a Quarter Horse with good hocks; flat knees; a balanced poll, withers and hip; nicely sloped shoulders; and, most importantly, a good mind. An animal meeting these standards can best carry out necessary tasks in accordance with the deeply rooted ranching traditions that the McKinneys have held dear for five generations.

"Horses were vital to ranching production," Bill shares. "We instilled those traditions in our children as our family grew."

To this day, the family's ranch functions using those same practices and relies heavily on their Quarter Horses to achieve the tasks at hand each day.

Each year, AQHA honors breeders who have dedicated their livelihoods to maintaining the integrity of the American Quarter Horse. These horsemen and families see their biggest accomplishments and proudest moments in the horses they breed.

"Fifty-year breeders are the backbone of the American Quarter Horse industry," said AQHA Executive Vice President Craig Huffhines. "They have dedicated so much of their lives to the American Quarter Horse, and they make the vision of our founders a reality through their knowledge and dedication."

This year, the honorees included 17 legacy award winners, 10 cumulative award winners and one 75 year breeder award. Legacy breeders are those who have registered at least one foal for 50 consecutive years. Cumulative breeders are those who have registered at least one foal for 50 years cumulatively.

Honorees ranged from people who have bred American Quarter Horses for reining, racing, cutting, ranch and rodeo. All have dedicated 50 years to taking their best and making it better.

For more information on the 50-year breeders, visit www. aqha. com/news.