Paints are known for turning heads wherever they go, and the people who love them tend to do the same. Now, two lucky APHA members get the chance to stand out themselves as they grace the pages of Chrome as winners of the APHA Member Model Search.
Chrome, APHA’s Western lifestyle magazine, realized the star power of the association’s members and decided to select two equestrians to headline its popular Fall Fashion Issue. More than 100 members threw their hats into the ring for consideration, and after much deliberation, the field was narrowed to 10 finalists: five men and five women.
The grand-prize winners of Chrome’s second annual APHA Member Model Search are Rita Hankins of Bartlett, Illinois, and Scott Weiss of Aubrey, Texas. They were selected from a pool of more than 100 candidates and rose to the top of our week-long public online voting, which saw more than 4,100 unique votes cast for our 10 finalists.
Rita Hankins
A 41-year-old from Bartlett, Illinois, Rita has been an APHA member since 1998. She’s owned and shown a number of Paints, including Tuf As Dirt. Paired with the 2004 chestnut overo gelding, Rita earned her Amateur Versatility award through APHA competition, and she also participates in Paint Alternative Competition.
“As a child I was always drawn to the ‘colored’ horses, but it wasn’t until I was 17 that I actually owned my first Paint,” Rita said. “I was hooked! I now have two beautiful APHA geldings and own a 40-stall boarding facility.”
Scott Weiss
The 25-year-old horseman from Aubrey, Texas, was excited to learn the results of the Chrome Model Search.
“I’d like to thank all of my friends and supporters—I truly appreciate all of the votes,” Scott said. “I’m excited for this opportunity and look forward to the shoot.”
An up-and-coming professional, Scott trained Quarter Horses under trainers Jay Starnes and Rusty Green before branching into APHA competition in 2014. Scott is also working to finish his degree at the University of North Texas.
As the APHA Member Model Search grand-prize winners, Rita and Scott are invited to star in Chrome’s fall fashion feature. Their prize includes travel and accommodations for the photo shoot, a Chrome gift bag and an exclusive online article.
“I am just beyond excited for this opportunity,” Rita said. “Honestly, I can’t believe it. I’m in shock! I’m very flattered to be chosen.”
Chrome also congratulates our other Top 10 finalists (listed below), along with everyone who applied and voted in this contest. We’re always excited to meet our APHA members, who are truly beautiful inside and out. Watch for the 2015 fashion issue, arriving in November.
Chrome is mailed to all current APHA members in North America, and available digitally to all members worldwide, so make sure your membership is current to ensure you receive this special issue. JOIN Today.
Finalists:
Erin Bradshaw, Aubrey, Texas
Lauren Crivelli, Visalia, California
Alissa Burson, Marshall, Texas
Ansley Tipton, Shreveport, Louisiana
Justin Lee, Fayetteville, North Carolina
Brian Brady, North Little Rock, Arkansas
Bradley Ost, Aubrey, Texas
Bobby Fowler Jr, Decatur, Texas
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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. APHA creates and maintains programs that increase the value of American Paint Horses and enriches members’ experiences with their horses.