Trail obstacle challenge competitions continue to grow in popularity.  “Over the last year, I have spoken with many Missouri Fox Trotting Horse owners that enjoy competing in these types of competitions.  I wanted to find a way to support these competitions within Region 4 and also recognize the registered Missouri Fox Trotting Horse competing,” shared MFTHBA Region 4 Director, Amber Wilson.  Ms. Wilson starting researching trail competitions within Region 4, which covers northern Missouri and the state of Kansas.  This research led to a discussion with Von Holten Ranch in Mora, Missouri.

“Von Holten Ranch seemed like a natural partner for this effort,” shared Wilson.  “Located in Region 4, Von Holten Ranch has been a MFTHBA member benefit company for a number of years. They have long been supportive of MFTHBA members, plus they have built several trail obstacle buckle series with several different organizations.”

Through the partnership, the MFTHBA Region 4 Director will be sponsoring two high point Missouri Fox Trotting Horse buckles.  The first will be awarded in the Equine Trail Sports (ETS) Spring Buckle Series.  This series will run March 18-19, April 8-9, and May 27-28.  A special Missouri Fox Trotting Horse high point buckle will also be award as part of the American Horsemen Challenge Association Missouri State Championship Buckle Series.  The AHCA series will be held March 25-26, April 22-23, May 20-21, June 17-18, July 29-30, August 19-20, and September 9-10.

Missouri Fox Trotting Horse owners from all regions may compete in the buckle series.  “The winners of the buckles are not limited to MFTHBA members of Region 4.  The only requirement is that the horse must be registered with the MFTHBA,” shared Ms. Wilson.

All events will be held at Von Holten Ranch in Mora, Missouri.  For more information on the buckle series, visit http://vonholtenranch.com/ or call 660-668-0880.