Karsyn Croghan of David City, Nebraska, is no stranger to Paint Horses. Since riding her first horse at 10 months old, Karsyn has always felt inspired to continue the Croghan Paint Horses legacy established by grandparents, Don and Carolyn. Karsyn has been showing for four years, but the 2026 APHA/WHCA Halter Million is her first world championship show.
“Showing is a family affair,” Karsyn said.
Karsyn’s motivation to compete at the Halter Million stemmed from the 2024 APHA World Championship, where her grandfather’s stallion, Fawago King, was inducted into the APHA Hall of Fame.
“My family and I watched some shows that weekend. It was incredible to watch,” Karsyn said. “I wanted to be down there too, and here I am.”
A Familial Appeal
While at the Halter Million, Karsyn is excited to compete, have fun and spend time with her horse Ripped And Chrome, a 2025 sorrel overo gelding by Telachrome and out of Mea Obviously Yella. “Rip’s” great-granddam, A Classy Impressor, was shown by Karsyn’s father when he was her age.
Their journey to the John Justin Arena was pure dedication and perseverance, Karsyn says.
“We drove through the middle of the night in the pouring rain to make it here,” Karsyn said. “I’ve been competing at open horse shows and various breed shows throughout the year to prepare.”
Karsyn competed in Youth Yearling Geldings, where she and Rip earned a Top Five. Showing a yearling can be challenging, she says, but their connection and trust in one another is what really shines.
Above all, Karsyn is thankful for the support of her family.
“I couldn’t have done this show without my mom, dad, great-aunt Donna and her daughter, my dad’s cousin Kari, who owns Rip.”
Article & small image by Makenna Batchelder
Top photo by Ruehle Photographix
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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.