WCHA Hall of Fame honors Jason Smith
Jason Smith of Whitesboro, Texas, wears many hats: trainer, exhibitor, breeder, professional horseman, to name a few. Now, he can add Hall of Famer to the list, too. The APHA member was inducted into the World Conformation Horse Association’s Hall of Fame on September 24 as part of the 2025 APHA/WCHA Halter Million in Fort Worth, Texas.
Raised on a ranch in Wyoming, Jason found his way into the world of halter horses through an uncle in Wichita. Through that connection, he met Sonny Thomison and discovered a knack for fitting horses and showing at halter.
“Back then they were bringing in lots of money, and it was something that I thought I was could be good at. And I really liked them,” Jason said.
From Kansas to Florida, Jason spent about 15 years working for other trainers in the business. He credits Sonny Thomison and Ray Logan with developing his foundation to pick winners, and Ted Turner for cultivating Jason’s strong work ethic and hands-on knowledge. In 2000, Jason and wife Julie opened their own doors to Smith Show Horses in Whitesboro, Texas.
With more than four decades of experience, Jason has witnessed several changes in the industry.
“The horses continually get better,” he said. “The amount of money that we can win with these babies right now is amazing. Raising them and feeding them and selling them—really enjoy that.”
All About the People
The best part, though, has always been the people at the heart of the horse world. Family is central to Jason—Julie and their children, Cooper and Shyanne, are all involved in the horse business, and customers quickly become part of the family, too. The halter world is a tight-knit community where lifelong friendships easily flourish. And though Jason says his straight-faced countenance can come across as ultra-serious, he loves helping others make their own impact on the sport.
“I try to be very open and talk to everybody and help them. Teaching the people and helping them to try to tune their craft is a good deal for me—I like it,” Jason said. “If you’re going to be in this business, I think you have to give back. When you see somebody having trouble, you just got to stop. Take five minutes and help them. I think that’s part of being a professional horseman and just being a good guy.”
That’s the legacy that Jason hopes to leave behind: being a good horseman and a great human being. Doing the right thing and helping others benefits everyone in the long run. He’s honored to be inducted into the WCHA Hall of Fame. Jason’s advice to others is simple: stay true to yourself.
“Don’t let fads or other things change what you know is your deal,” he said. “Find a good barn that fits you, stay true to it and go have fun—enjoy it. Stay true to your beliefs and your desires, and it’ll all work out.”
Award ceremony photos by Ruehle Photographix; arena photo by Jessica Hein
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. It has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories since it was founded in 1962. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.