The Trainer of the Year award was designed to recognize the achievements of professional horsemen and women involved in the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse breed.  The five nominees for the 2016 award represent the work ethic, dedication, and hard work needed to make a living in the equine world.

“The MFTHBA Membership Committee was happy to see the number of nominees for this year’s award, and because of the quality and accomplishments of the nominees, it was evident that the membership took voting very seriously,” said Amy Stangl, MFTHBA Membership Committee Chairman.

Aaron Stanifer, MFTHBA President, added, “Bryan Biggs, Donnie Daugherty,  David Ogle, Erin Patterson, and Vance Vahle have all made a positive impact on our breed and our Association through their commitment to the horses they train.”

While it was clear that the MFTHBA membership admires all the nominated trainers, one stood out above the rest.  For the second year in a row, the MFTHBA membership voted Vance Vahle as the MFTHBA Trainer of the Year.

While Mr. Vahle’s nomination letters applauded him for his work throughout 2016, his nomination letters all pointed out that on “Saturday evening Vance captured the blue in the 2 Year Old Open WGC, 3 Year Old Open WGC, and 4 Year Old WGC classes. In addition, he finished the night by taking reserve in the 5 and over WGC class.”  The nomination letters also went on to say that Mr. Vahle’s customers placed well, too, bringing home garlands themselves in four classes.

The MFTHBA is grateful to all the equine professionals that dedicate their lives to the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse and congratulates Vance Vahle on being named the 2016 MFTHBA Trainer of the Year.

Mr. Vahle will be formally recognized at the 2017 Spring Show and Three Year Old Futurity.