Not all wins come in the form of a golden buckle. For Jessica Gardner, a 78-year-old from Poteau, Oklahoma, returning to the show ring at the 2026 APHA/WCHA Halter Million after 25 years is her personal world championship.
“Entering the arena has made her a world champion in my eyes,” said Trisha Shorten Armstrong, Jessica’s long-time friend and trainer. “I was just so proud of her.”
Jessica experienced her share of trials over the years. After her husband’s death and various operations on her feet that impacted her gait, Jessica was unsure she would ever return to showing.
“I told Trisha that I didn’t think I could complete [the tracking portion],” Jessica said.
With Trisha’s encouragement, Jessica entered the arena and overcame the challenge with Starz Finale, a 2025 palomino overo gelding by The Final Verse and out of Starlite Stardust (QH). Jessica competed in the Platinum Non-Pro Yearling Gelding Breeders’ Futurity with “Finale,” finishing as the bronze champion; they’ll also compete in the Amateur Yearling Geldings.
“They looked like they were doing Western pleasure,” Trisha said about Jessica’s Platinum class. “They went out there and were so smooth. I am so proud of her.”
Back on Track
Trisha was instrumental to Jessica’s return to the showring, introducing her to Finale when he was just a colt and supporting her every step of the way. By May 2026, Jessica knew she wanted to purchase the yearling, and Trisha helped make it happen.
“I knew [Jessica] needed something to drive her,” Trisha said. “Returning to showing was an opportunity to give her happiness and purpose.”
Jessica purchased Finale in late September 2026, and she is grateful for her trainer’s guidance.
“I wouldn’t be here without Trisha and her support,” Jessica said.
Article by Makenna Batchelder; photo by Jessica Hein
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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.