1.) Describe your involvement in the Arabian horse breed as a volunteer, and what your accomplishments are:
My wife (Nikole) and I own and manage a small breeding program known as Victoria Cross Farm located in the beautiful hills of Michigan. We are a committed young couple living out a passion and pursuing our dreams for the Arabian horse. I love seeing our home bred horses shown around the world, and I enjoy introducing new people to our beloved Arabians. Every year, I read King of the Wind to my fourth grade class, instilling an excitement in them for our noble breed. I am humbled to be a part of the Arabian community and to watch our foals grow up and carry on the legacy of the Arabian horse.
1.) What are some of the highlights and successful moments in the 2015 show season for you?
We had a very exciting and successful year in 2015 both on the farm and in the show arena.
Both of our young stallions had a tremendous year in the show ring. This was my first year showing, and I was blessed to have the opportunity to show our beautiful stallion, Beckham UA, to the title of U.S. National Champion Stallion AAOTH, Region 13 Champion Stallion AAOTH, and the Great Lakes Arabian Trifecta Futurity Champion. Also, our junior stallion, Gazali VC, was named U.S. National Top Ten Junior Colt and Region 13 Champion. The unseen highlights were the acquisition of four new mares to be added to our breeding program and the birth of an exciting colt by TF Psymreekhe. It is always a highlight of mine to connect with old friends and meet new ones at all the shows throughout the year.
2.) Who has been your biggest influence in the Arabian breed in getting you to where you are today?
My wife, Nikole, is the biggest influence in the Arabian breed in getting me to where I am today. When we met, she was building a breeding program that we’ve built on over the the years since. Without those foundation horses, our breeding program would not be where it is today. Though I grew up loving horses, she was the one who introduced me to the Arabian breed, gave me my first horse (a beautiful Arabian filly), and encouraged me to pursue showing our horses. Also, I could not have shown to the National level without the guidance of Keith Krichke, who graciously prepared me for every time in the ring.
3.) If someone were to describe you, what would they say about you?
I hope they would say that I care deeply about what I’m involved in and that I want to bring glory to God in everything that I do.
4.) Name one show ring quirk you have:
I end up running backward a lot. I’m not sure if it’s because I like to watch my horse put on a show, but it usually works out that way.