2023 Winner - Emma Madison

Emma Madison - because she is awesome and I love her. She truly has a wonderful attitude and personality even on some of the worst days. She has never not been able to make me smile or brighten my day regardless of my mood. I can definitely speak for others when I say that she has been a wonderful addition to the fox lake family, and we are continuously grateful for her hard work.

Emma Madison has been a long time member of the AHJA and she continues to grow and give back to the horse community. She is an encouraging light to all the riders that she helps and she is willing to put in the hard work to elevate horse sport in our area.

2023 Winner - Lydia McCay

I would like to nominate Lydia McCay. Her bright and shining personality in such a joy to be around. She is constantly tryin to improve her riding and horsemanship skills. She always wants to be the first one to tackle a new exercise in lessons and wants to answer one more horsemanship question than the other kids. She spent the whole summer riding bareback and how now found a love for it. She loves and cares for her pony and comes to the barn each day ready to work.

2023 Winner - Willa Rose Akins

2023 Winner - Russell Beaty

Russell Beaty - OG horse dad established since 2008. He has never lacked anything other than 100% support for me or my dreams. He has worked harder than any parent I know to provide me with everything I needed to not only be the best equestrian I could be, but also the best person I can be. He has stood by my side when I have failed, and redirected my path back to success more times than I can count. His never ending support and guidance has shaped me into who I am today, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. Regardless of his hectic work life, he has always maintained attendance for my greatest accomplishments and my countless failures. Most importantly, he has never left a bill unpaid lol.

2023 Winner - Guerry Force

When I read the description of this award, the first person who comes to mind is Guerry. Guerry is an incredible leader, and she exemplifies the qualities of someone dedicated to service. She is always available to answer questions, listen to concerns, lend a helping hand, and support every rider and every barn associated with the AHJA.

I nominate Guerry Force. No one does as much or works as hard as she does. The time she dedicates to the improvement of the AHJA is unmatched. She is always kind and beaming with joy. I have never once heard Guerry complain about a single thing. She is always there to ensure the shows are the absolute best they can be.

20223 Winner - Karen Howerton & Charleston Harbour

Watching them grow and conquer throughout this past year has been nothing less of a perfect transformation. With numerous trials and tribulations around every corner, they have become a wonderful pair to watch in the show and practice ring. This longtime mount of hers has proven to be fiercely independent on a day to day basis. However, with her never ending dedication and love for her partner, Conner, she continues to prevail.

I nominate Karen Howerton and Charleston Harbor (Conner). If anyone has been around long enough to witness this pair in and out of the show ring, you will know that Conner, nicely phrased, is quite the challenge. This long term partnership has faces many battles in their 10+ years together. From saddle fittings, to kissing spine surgery, to a very long rehab process; Conner had still maintained his “spirited” personality. When this pair is in sync, they are unstoppable. What many don’t see is all of the countless hours of effort and frustration she has put in to making him a rideable horse. Karen’s love, passion, and unwillingness to quit on Conner makes her the best candidate for this award.

Karen Howerton and her longtime partner Charleston Harbour (Conner). I can't think of a more deserving duo than Karen and Conner. Karen has always moved mountains to give Conner the best chance to be the best horse he can be. If you have been around a while you know that Conner can, and does, have lots of opinions. Karen works with Conner and not against him. She is constantly trying to make his life a better place and Conner continues to come out of the barn each day ready to jump whatever is put in front of him. I hope they have many more years together not only showing but just enjoying life.