Lorna Mathews powers through to a Platinum win with Reputations
A separated shoulder couldn’t keep Lorna Mathews away from the 2024 APHA/WCHA Halter Million. And it’s a good thing, too. The horsewoman from Midway, Kentucky, scored a win with Reputations in the Platinum Non-Pro Weanling Geldings Breeders’ Futurity on September 26, taking home a paycheck worth $7,166.
About six weeks ago, Lorna was knocked to the ground by another horse. She found herself in the hospital with a brain bleed and severely separated shoulder. Doctors’ orders kept her out of the Breeders Halter Futurity in Iowa, but she was cleared to compete at the Halter Million just in time.
“I need surgery, but we’ll do that later. We have our priorities,” Lorna laughed.
Good Reputations
An outsider watching Lorna show Reputations wouldn’t have realized the horsewoman was powering through a shoulder injury. She skillfully handled the 2024 sorrel overo gelding, who is by Trillions and out of Joyous Ententions (QH). Her trainer, Jason Smith of Whitesboro, Texas, bred the gelding.
“We did a little horse trade with them and got her that colt,” Jason said. “That colt is real square on all corners and his top is good. Lorna did a pretty good job getting him shown today. He’s a nice horse.”
Lorna’s grit to show through her injury was impressive.
“To have that kind of [injury] and still have the love that she wants to do it is remarkable,” Jason said.
Lorna is quick to extend her appreciation to the Smiths for having Reputations prepared and ready to show.
“All the credit goes to Jason and Julie for preparing him. I’m just here to show him,” she said. “I feel so fortunate. This horse show has put together this prize money for us—it’s incredible. That’s what we all work so hard to do. It is the best of the best. This program is going through the roof, and I feel fortunate to be part of it.”
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.