APHA’s Lone Star Gathering brought conformation-horse enthusiasts together to vie for more than $1 million while showcasing chrome in a big way.
Over the last five years, APHA has cultivated a premier competition for halter horses in conjunction with affiliate partner the World Conformation Horse Association, creating a central venue for top-quality competition, huge purses and a fun-loving atmosphere that left exhibitors excited to come back. So when the APHA World Championship Show combined its Youth, Amateur and Open events in Summer 2021, some worried that it might be the end of this flourishing halter-focused extravaganza. But APHA officials had a plan to keep that spirit alive, while also preserving the benefits for young horses and the chance to spotlight chrome—and all the ways it can pay off—in the unique WCHA co-hosted event.
A beacon of opportunity, the Lone Star Gathering was born.
The 2021 Lone Star Gathering, which took place September 27-October 3 in Fort Worth, Texas, exceeded expectations:
- More than $1.1 million in total payouts awarded
- More than $374,000 earmarked ONLY for Paint Horses
- Nearly 400 horses generating 1,760 entries
While APHA events, including Breeders’ Futurity and select world championship classes, were limited to weanlings and yearlings, halter horses of all ages came to play thanks to WCHA Big Money Futurity classes that were also on the schedule. APHA was well represented, both with copious chrome in the ring as well as in the winner’s circle.
Jennifer Jubb of Florence, Alabama, was just one member of the APHA family to win big at the Lone Star Gathering—she captured the championship title and $16,423 with Forever Stylish in the APHA Platinum Non-Pro Weanling Mares Breeders’ Futurity class, which featured 25 entries and a purse of more than $65,000.
APHA extends a huge thank-you to all the exhibitors, sponsors and supporters who made the Lone Star Gathering such a huge success in its inaugural year.
Learn more about the Lone Star Gathering and its success stories in the November/December issue of the Paint Horse Journal.
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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.