When Rachel Kooiker of Hudsonville, Michigan, sold her Quarter Horse and bought a Paint at age 14, she set off a chain reaction that would lead to nearly three decades—and counting—of APHA affiliation. From all-around competitor to breeder to entrepreneur to board member, Rachel’s harnessed existing skills and mastered new ones to create a prosperous future colored with chrome.
Why Paints?
“I was a “barn rat” growing up; I literally slept at the barn any chance I got—as a parent now, I’m amazed my parents let that happen so often. I worked for my lessons and board by cleaning stalls and grooming. Eventually, I began grooming for a Paint trainer on weekends when I wasn’t at Quarter Horse shows. I enjoyed the atmosphere and the horses so much that I sold my gelding, bought a gorgeous Paint, and never looked back.
“It is a bit surprising to realize that now adds up to 28 years with APHA. During that time, I’ve competed as a Youth and Amateur in All-Around events. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to work with excellent trainers and have also enjoyed the do-it-yourself route with homegrown projects raised alongside my husband, Drew. We also stood a stallion and operated a small breeding business, preparing select halter prospects for futurities.”
Be the Change
“I started somewhat selfishly; I wanted to raise the bar for our local club’s trail patterns and figured volunteering for course design was the best way to see change. I was right, but I ended up joining the board soon after! After a term in my early 20s, I stepped back to focus on my career and family. I eventually returned by spearheading sponsorships for my regional club. I naturally gravitate toward solving problems or filling gaps, so after reviving the sponsorship committee, I took a state director position and kept leaning in. In 2022, I was asked to run for the Board of Directors. Since I had recently had my youngest son and was taking a break from the show ring, I thought, “Why not give back in a different capacity?”
Best of the Board
“When you’re showing, you often only see the people in your specific classes. As a board member, you engage in different spaces—Leadership Gatherings, committee meetings and strategic sessions—viewing the association through a new lens. It has broadened my understanding of the ‘umbrella’ of our engagements, from judging to YEDA and IRHA, which is critical to promoting and preserving the American Paint Horse.
“[I love] the relationships built over time and the ability to work to preserve that family-forward culture for my own children and future generations. It is incredibly rewarding to see my own kids now meeting and competing with the children of the people I grew up with in this association; watching those multi-generational connections form is truly a testament to the community we’ve built.”
Innovation That Excites
“While Paynt Points is a great example, I’m excited by innovation in general. We have incredible forward momentum among our state directors, staff leadership and membership. I’m eager to see where that energy takes us in the coming years.”
Broadened Perspective
“APHA has so many amazing offerings, and while any one of us might only personally benefit from one or two programs, APHA’s growth depends on us supporting the entire suite of initiatives the association offers.”
Shared Goals
“We are a diverse group with different perspectives, but I can honestly say every Board member is driven by a singular goal: seeing APHA grow and thrive.
“I wish I had realized earlier that serving on the Board of Directors requires the skills of a caretaker; you are a steward of the organization, much like we are stewards of our horses. But to do this well, you have to widen your aperture to focus on more than just the day-to-day care. You have to think about fiduciary duty, strategic planning and long-term sustainability. Our love for the Paint Horse is the fuel, but sound governance is the engine.”
Add Your Voice
“There is a profound need for unique voices at the table. If you see a need, don’t wait for an invitation. Start helping, and you’ll quickly find you are making a meaningful difference.”
Butterfly Effect
“I want to thank the mentors who encouraged me to bridge the gap between competitor and steward. Beyond that, my perspective is deeply shaped by our family farm. Watching my children navigate their own journeys, from my daughter preparing for her first show this Memorial Day to my son’s growing interest in his own Paint, reminds me daily of what we are protecting. The ‘family’ aspect of APHA isn’t a tagline; it is our infrastructure. When I look at APHA, I’m not just looking at balance sheets or the rule book; I’m looking at the future of the sport my children are growing up in. Serving on this board is about ensuring the next generation of families finds their place here, too.”
Photos courtesy Rachel Kooiker
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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.