Adam Wainscott likes to say that he married into the APHA family, but the truth is that he’s been an APHA exhibitor and fan for about 20 years. The lifelong horseman grew up riding and showing in the Midwest, and he now runs Covenant Show Horses—a top halter-focused breeding, training and show operation—with wife, Kelley, in Sanger, Texas. He was elected to the APHA Board of Directors in March 2026.
“I have been involved first as a spectator since the early 2000s and, shortly after that, as an exhibitor at the Paint World,” Adam said. “I could tell the atmosphere in the John Justin Arena that day was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in there ever before. It was interesting to me from the start. It didn’t take long after I married my wife, Kelley, to see how involved she was, and I got to build personal relationships with many wonderful people.”
Leading the Way
“I have throughout my career been involved with other associations in various ways, serving on a multitude of committees. I honestly was not seeking a role like this when I was approached about my willingness to serve. After a lot of discussion, some real and honest talks with my wife, and some quiet time to reflect about it, I decided I would be willing to run for a few reasons. First, I am a firm believer that in order to be a part of the solution, you must first be involved. Second, I strive daily to live my life in a way that I hope—through the interactions I have with youth or young adults—will help make a lasting impression for years to come. Third, I want to be a part of securing the future of APHA for the next generation. Lastly, and probably most importantly, I want young people who love horses today to have a better, more sustainable and healthier APHA for the future.”
On Board
“Getting to know my fellow board members has been fun. We all come from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, but share a common theme of respect and goal to see APHA the best it can be.”
The Biggest Reward
“Getting to know so many of the members and hearing their stories has been so rewarding! It’s amazing to me how many of us grew up showing on a budget and, many times, had to essentially ‘work off our bill’ in some way. Our love for horses was forged in work, sweat, blood, tears and pure grit.”
Maintaining Identity
“I personally am excited about some of the programs we are offering, such as Paynt Points and the Color Bonus incentive program. I know that in order for us to remain easily recognizable and maintain the integrity of who we are, we have to reward the true, loud-colored, single-registered Paint Horse.”
On the Same Team
“I wish they knew that we as board members are just like them. Just because we wear a badge that says our name and title doesn’t mean we aren’t approachable; we are willing to listen and want to hear from the membership. This is APHA, and it’s a non-profit that is essentially owned by the membership. We need your involvement and your dedication to attend the Leadership Gathering, serve on committees and be involved. Regionally, locally or nationally, we need the membership to be active and help make APHA what we all want it to be: THE BEST.
“I feel like I am a prime example of what you can accomplish if you dream it, work harder than you think you can, have a good attitude and be good to people—then, you are only limited by your own imagination, and you will accomplish more than you could ever dream of. I am blessed to be able to serve APHA. If I could get one message across to a young person who loves horses and this lifestyle, I would hope that you know this industry has a place for you if you work hard, are honest with yourself and others, and always go above and beyond to do the right thing. Even when it’s really hard, never sell your integrity, and never forget nothing is ever free. Understand you will fail more than you will succeed—the winners are the ones who never stay down. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and always ask the question “Is this good for my horse?” If you do those things, you will be prepared for whatever life throws at you. One of the best pieces of advice I got was from stalling with Ted Turner at the Congress several years ago. He told me, “Take care of the little problems, and you’ll never have a big one.”
We Want You
“If you are thinking about becoming involved, that is great! Ask yourself a few questions: Why do I want to serve? Can I fully commit to serving? Do I want to be challenged in ways I may not see coming? Can I embrace others’ perspectives? Will my perspective be positive? Can I change my perspective when another way makes more sense? If you answer yes to these questions, then what are you waiting for? We need you!”
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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.