At 75 years young, Sandra Haugen has discovered her share of lessons taught by experienced, finished horses. She’s also learned to appreciate the incremental growth and memories created with young, greener partners, too.
The Colorado Springs, Colorado, horsewoman is making the journey to the 2026 APHA Western National Championship Show for the second time. This year, Sandra is showing John Prine, a 2023 bay tobiano gelding owned by her daughter and trainer, Autumn Haugen-Dallaguardia. Sandra says she is thankful to have such a nice horse as well as a daughter who makes sure she and “JP” are prepared to the best of their abilities.
All About the Journey
Although Sandra is not new to horses, the show pen is somewhat less familiar.
“I didn’t ride horses when Autumn was younger,” Sandra said. “I just wrote the checks and drove the truck. But once Autumn became a professional, we decided I would try it out.”
And tried it out she has. Showing and working with Paint Horses for the past 16 years, the retired nurse and horsewoman is discovering the reality of showing isn’t about winning, ribbons or points.
“It’s about personal growth,” Sandra said. “It’s about the memories being made with my family and our friends who are like family.”
At the 2026 Western National Show, Sandra simply aspires to have fun, make memories with Autumn and the grandchildren, and keep a positive attitude.
“We love this facility,” she said. “The grandkids affectionately call it ‘The Hotel Barn.’ We also enjoy how the show is run so well, and the wonderful show management.”
Sandra is thrilled to include JP as part of their family.
“JP is very special to our family,” she said. “I am hopeful that I will continue to show for many more years to come!”
Article by Makenna Batchelder; photo by Norfleet Photography, courtesy Sandra Haugen
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association, registering 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.