Longtime APHA advocate Sandy Jirkovsky of Whitesboro, Texas, will harness decades of horse experience and her passion for supporting and encouraging young equestrians to take the reins as director of Youth and Amateur activities for APHA.
In her new role, Sandy will oversee the APHA’s Youth and Amateur programs, which provide opportunities for young riders to develop leadership and horsemanship skills, compete and bond with fellow horse enthusiasts. Sandy is well-known in the Paint Horse community for her dedication to the breed and her tireless efforts to promote the sport. She has served as an APHA Board of Directors member since 2018 and is a carded judge and trainer in multiple associations.
“I am excited for this new opportunity to support the next generation of horse enthusiasts and create memorable experiences for our members,” Sandy said. “I look forward to collaborating with the APHA team to enhance our Youth and Amateur programs and grow our community.”
An APHA judge since 1996 and a Markel/APHA Professional Horsewoman, Sandy been involved in training horses most of her life. Sandy will resign her position on the APHA Board of Directors. The board will meet soon to discuss how best to fill her vacant position.
“When you talk about the greatest judges and horsemen and -women in the world, Sandy Jirkovsky’s name always bobs to the surface,” APHA Executive Director Billy Smith said. “We are thrilled to have her on board to lead our Youth and Amateur programs and foster the next generation.”
##
[Reprinting all or part of this news release is permitted, so long as credit is given to the Paint Horse Journal and a link provided back to apha.com.]
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.