Chrome APHA Model Search delivers unforgettable experiences for 2025 winners
Article by Kinley Humphries
Photos by Jessica Hein
APHA rolled out the red carpet for its 2025 Chrome APHA Member Model Search winners. The net was cast wide; the initial model search received more than 40 applications before being narrowed down to the Top 10 finalist by Chrome staff.
The grand-prize winners were selected by public voting, with Ella Blunt and Jody Brooks coming out on top. The women each won an expenses-paid trip to Fort Worth, Texas, to participate in a fashion shoot for Chrome’s Winter 2025 issue.
2025 Chrome APHA Member Model Search Winners
Meet Ella
Hailing from New York, Ella Blunt has been involved in the horse world her entire life, serving as Miss Teen Rodeo New York in 2022. She began her showing journey as a dedicated AQHA member before buying Paint Horse and entering the world of APHA.
“After attending my first few APHA shows, I quickly grew to appreciate not only the competitive atmosphere but also the welcoming community,” Ella said. “Showing Paints has been some of the most fun I’ve had in the show world in years.”
Her favorite part of the Chrome fashion shoot was the close friendships that formed between models over just a few days—a reflection of APHA at its core.
“The friendships, collaborations and memories created during the process are ones I will always cherish,” Ella said.
She recommends participating in the model search to everyone. It creates new doors in the equine industry, provides the chance to travel to a beautiful location and forms lifelong connections.
“These are the kinds of experiences money can’t buy and that you won’t find anywhere else,” Ella said.
Meet Jody
Jody Brooks is a lifelong horsewoman who has always found happiness on the back of a Paint. As a freshman in high school, she made the choice to forgo getting a car to make room for a 2-year-old Paint named “Colt”—a choice she happily made without hesitation.
Jody currently owns DF Gun Heir, a palomino solid gelding by Pale Face Dunnit and out of Xtra Playful Girl (QH). The 5-year-old horse is being shown in the NRCHA cow horse competition with Stefan Heim of Dawson Performance Horses. Jody plans to take over his reins in 2026 and will show in NRCHA and APHA ranch classes.
Outside of the show world, Jody and her husband own and operate JW Brooks Custom Hat Company, which they founded in 2008.
“My goal in life is to always have a goal,” Jody said. “I love working toward something, whether it’s developing a young horse for longevity in the show pen or taking our hat company to the next level.”
Jody’s favorite part of the fashion shoot was getting to pose with gorgeous Paint Horses, including Storyteler, a two-time NCHA Super Stakes co-reserve champion and winner of The American Performance Horseman cutting in 2024.
Her advice to others thinking of applying to the model search? “Why wouldn’t you?”
“I think people can relate to a model who has lived their life—a woman who finally knows who she is,” Jody said. “The beautiful part comes from all of those experiences shaping you into a work of art that should be celebrated!”
But that’s not all …
Two more finalists joined Ella and Jody for the fashion shoot in Fort Worth, Texas:
Meet Cheyenne
Cheyenne Willis has been involved with APHA from a young age. She owns and operates a dog grooming business and trains horses on the side; Cheyenne hopes to transition into full-time horse training soon. On weekends, you can find Cheyenne and her black solid Paint-bred gelding hitting the road to compete in barrel racing.
“You will not meet another breed as unique or expressive,” Cheyenne said. “I will always treasure the big hearts and beautiful aura of Paint Horses.”
One of her favorite parts of the Chrome fashion shoot was walking around the Stockyards and seeing the sights with new friends.
“If you’re like me, with no modeling experience, this probably seems out of your comfort zone. But, if you’re thinking about applying, do it! You will end up with lifelong friendships and memories,” Cheyenne said.
Meet Ami
Ami Myers grew up on cattle ranches surrounded by horses, country life and wide open spaces. After taking a break from the horse world to focus on family and her career, Ami returned to riding in 2015. A few years later, Ami joined her daughter in the show ring. She competes in both Western and English all-around events.
The best part of the photo shoot for Ami was the support and encouragement she received from the APHA staff and other models.
“Their kindness, positivity and warmth turned an already amazing experience into something truly unforgettable,” Ami said.
Check out these chic cowgirls in the Winter 2025 issue of Chrome magazine, delivered to APHA members. Want to order a copy? We’ve got you covered.
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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.