Abby Phillips continues demonstrating her talent in the show pen, piloting her 2019 mare Purdy Talker (Purdy Boy Flash x Money Talks Smart x Smart Mate) to the Kimes Ranch Jeans National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Non-Pro Derby Championship.
Persevering through tough luck in the preliminary fence work, the duo came back with a point to prove, marking a 217 in the herd work, an impressive 222.5 in the rein work, and a 218 on the cow to conclude their derby finals with a 657.5 composite score.
For the team, this derby championship had a special place in Abby’s heart. Phillips and Purdy Talker have been a dynamic duo since the mare’s 2-year-old year leading into their $20,000 Non-Pro Co-Reserve Championship at the 2022 NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity. After some tough luck at the Teton Ridge Stallion Stakes, Phillips looked forward to showcasing their style and talent at the Derby.
Unsurprisingly, this exceptional mare has inherited her power and looks from the Beechfork Ranch’s stallion Purdy Boy Flash and her dam Money Talks Smart.
“Her style on a cow sets her apart; she has so much look and expression. It’s what makes her stand out the most. In the reining, she has an appealing way of carrying herself,” she said.
Through style and consistency comes enjoyment and success for this team. Purdy Talker Has been the talk of the town, complemented on her athletic ability and style when reining and working the cow.
“She showed well for me; I love this mare. She’s super good-minded and very talented. It’s fun to run her hard and stop her,” she said.
Reflecting on her championship, Phillips reiterates the importance of a support network in the horse show community; competing at your best takes an army, and she has one on her side.
“I would like to thank my herd help and my husband, throughout the week, my family and friends showed up, and I just have all the best support behind me, and I couldn’t do it without Kelby [Phillips], that’s for sure.”
Accompanying Abby Phillips in the winner circle was Reserve Champion Tammy Joe Hayes aboard her 2019 mare Shiverz (Woody Be Tuff x Cats Boonolena x High Brow Cat), bred by the Center Ranch.
