You’ve seen them in the Paint Horse Journal and around the horse shows, providing expert advice and assistance to horsemen of all disciplines. The Paint Horse Journal Pro Team consists of 12 APHA world champions who believe in a consistent presence in the Journal.
Meet new 2017 PHJ Pro Team members RJ King and Sara Simons
Sara Simons and RJ King of Pilot Point, Texas, have proven the sky’s the limit when you put in hard work and preparation. Sara grew up in the APHA family, beginning her career as a highly successful Youth competitor and growing through the divisions before attending the University of North Texas, where she graduated with a political science degree. RJ grew up showing Appaloosas and Quarter Horses, and he began showing Paints shortly after being introduced to the breed by Sara in 2008. Together, Sara and RJ have continued to grow the legacy of excellence cultivated by Simons Show Horses since its establishment in 1977.
RJ King
Favorite Sports Team: Dallas Cowboys
Favorite restaurant: Chick fil A
Favorite vacation spot: Napa Valley, California
Favorite movie: Bad Boys 2
Favorite singer or band: George Strait
When did you start showing: I started when I was in lead line at the age of 5.
My favorite horse to show: My favorite to show is Inthesweetshop (Three Chips x Endless Zippo).
My superstition is that I always have to pin my own numbers down.
I could not live without horses. I’m blessed to be able to do this for a living.
People might not know that I can fix anything, and am considered a Jack of All Trades.
If I were to show in a different discipline, I would love to try cutting, as it requires ultimate body control and trust in your horse.
Advice for other professionals: It’s very important to be self-motivated and have a tremendous work ethic.
Sara Simons
Favorite restaurant: In and Out
Favorite vacation spot: Napa Valley, California
Favorite movie: Bad Boys 2
Favorite singer or band: The Weeknd
When did you start showing: I started in halter when I was 4 years old.
My favorite horse to show: My favorite to show is Sensational Blonde (Zippos Sensation x Flash N Her Lace).
My good luck charm is my clover leaf head stall.
I could not live without horses. They’re my passion.
People might not know that I was all-state in volleyball.
If I were to show in a different discipline, I would love to try dressage because of the difficult pattern and lead change work.
Advice for other professionals: It’s very important to always keep your client’s best interest in mind.
The PHJ Pro Team features professionals who are experts in a variety of disciplines and pass along their knowledge to guide clients to the winners’ circle. For more information on the Paint Horse Journal Pro Team and how you can become a member, visit apha.com/phj/phj-pro-team. Special thanks to our PHJ Pro Team sponsors: Olathe Boot Co., Horseware Ireland and Kimes Ranch Jeans.
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association, registering more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories since it was founded. APHA creates and maintains programs that increase the value of American Paint Horses and enriches members’ experiences with their horses.