lanham-brown
Lanham Brown and RAB Miss Blue Bayou * Photo by Primo Morales

RAB Miss Blue Bayou & Lanham Brown become NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Non Pro Champions

In a thrilling display of cow horse prowess, RAB Miss Blue Bayou & Lanham Brown emerged victorious at the prestigious National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) Snaffle Bit Futurity. The event, which took place at the historic Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas, witnessed Brown’s outstanding performance, capturing the hearts of horse enthusiasts and competitors alike.

Competing against a formidable field of riders, Brown’s dedication and hard work paid off as they clinched the coveted title with a composite score of 654 (Herd 218, Rein 218, Cow 218). The event is revered for its emphasis on the nation’s youngest cow horses, making Brown’s victory all the more impressive.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Brown navigated the arena precisely, demonstrating the seamless bond between rider and horse.

“Down the fence, that mare was always there when I called on her. I trust this horse, so showing was less pressure than I thought it would be,” Brown said.

The winning performance was a testament to the countless hours of training and dedication Brown put into the sport of reined cow horse.

“My favorite moment of the futurity was when it was over. I knew I had done everything I could, and I was proud of my horse with how she competed,” Brown said.

Brown, an accomplished rider, showcased exceptional skill and finesse throughout the competition. The NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity, is known for its demanding challenge of training a three-year-old horse to complete three events. Brown’s partnership with his home-raised mare, RAB Miss Blue Bayou (Once In A Blu Boon x This Shiney Miss x WR This Cats Smart) proved unbeatable.

Brown’s achievement in the NRCHA Non Pro Snaffle Bit Futurity underscores his commitment to excellence and passion for the reined cow horse. The pair’s victory will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration to aspiring riders and a memorable moment in the history of the reined cow horse history.

As the dust settled on the arena and the applause subsided, Brown relished his victory lap as the champion of the NRCHA Non Pro Snaffle Bit Futurity, leaving with $40,000 in prize money and an indelible mark on the world of the reined cow horse.

“My family and herd help play a huge part in my success. Matt Koch and Don Murphy have taught me so much I would be crazy not to thank them, and I could name 100 people to be thankful for,” Brown said.

The intermediate non pro champion was Carmen Buckingham on Kitty Wilkins (WR This Cats Smart x Miss Bella Blue x Frettin), the duo also snagged the Non Pro Reserve Championship and took home a total of $35,000 from the two classes.

The limited non pro champion was Erin E. Heim on Armed For Sure (PG Heavily Armed x Mettilda x Metallic Cat).