2026 Paul Harber Racing Distinguished Service Award goes to Jamie Howard
APHA board member and racing advocate Jamie Howard is being honored with the 2026 Paul Harber Racing Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Paint racing industry. The presentation ceremony takes place February 28 at the OQHRA Award Banquet in Shawnee, Oklahoma. The award is presented in appreciation for Jamie’s outstanding and longstanding contributions to the Paint racing industry.
An APHA member since 2000, Jamie and his wife, Wendy, live the Paint Horse lifestyle everyday on their ranch, Running Colors Equine in Wayne, Oklahoma. They’ve bred about 80 speed-bred Paints, mainly for racing and other performance events. A cornerstone matriarch of their broodmare band is Got A Grip—dam of five-time APHA world champion Got Country Grip and others, who’ve earned over $600,000 trackside—and her daughters.
From advocating on the Racing and Breed Integrity advisory committees, Jamie learned the importance and impact of getting involved to make a difference. He chaired both committees and was elected to the APHA Board of Directors in 2022. Last year, he won the president-elect seat and will serve as APHA president in 2027. Read more about Jamie here.
Peer-Reviewed
An advocate for APHA and Paint racing, Jamie leads with confidence, both within the association and on the greater horse-industry stage. Members of the Racing Advisory Committee echoed his impact:
“Leadership action and Jamie’s everyday advocacy for Paint racing have led to an elevation of importance and opportunity within the association. The future of Paint horse racing is more secure through the expanded efforts of this individual.”
–Sheri Grinstead
“Jamie’s placement on the Board of Directors was a huge win for Paint Racing. Further, Jamie is very pro-APHA, always willing to educate the membership regarding rule change impacts and helping people understand how the organization is governed, all with professionalism and class.”
–Steven Imhof
“He has lead by example, place the needs of the horses above his own, and embodies the values this award represents. His service has left a lasting and meaningful imprint, and his dedication continues to elevate us around him.”
–Wenona Jones
APHA is pleased to award the 2026 Paul Harber Racing Distinguished Service Award to Jamie.
“The Paul Harber Racing Distinguished Service Award honors individuals whose dedication and service have made a lasting impact on the Paint Horse racing industry. Jamie exemplifies everything this award represents,” Director of Racing Carly Peercy said. “Jamie’s commitment to Paint Horse racing and to the American Paint Horse Association goes far beyond his responsibilities. He leads with integrity, generosity and an unwavering passion for the industry. I am incredibly thankful for everything he does, and he embodies the very definition of outstanding service to Paint Horse racing.”
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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.