The NSBA Foundation joined forces with the American Paint Horse Foundation once again at the 2025 APHA World Championship Show to honor our nation’s veterans and active-duty military, as well as those who gave their lives in defense of our freedom, through the annual Heroes On Horses® Parade of Heroes and Walk Jog Western Pleasure class. Against the backdrop of the John Justin Arena, both competitors and spectators gathered to recognize the servant heart, strength and camaraderie that is central to both military service and the horse show community.
Beginning on Wednesday evening, the veterans participated in a hands-on boot camp led by APHA professional horsemen, refining riding skills and building new connections. A Welcome Dinner followed, where riders and support teams shared stories around the table, setting the tone for a weekend of fellowship and empowerment. 

The competition began with the Parade of Heroes. The competitors rode into the pen, greeted by a sea of American flags held in honor of their service. The parade was followed by a Color Guard presentation. Attendees filed in a queue of proudly held American Flags–a powerful display of gratitude for their service and sacrifice that set the tone for competition.

The celebration continued with the Walk Jog Western Pleasure class, where determination and competitive spirit shone as brightly as the service each veteran has given. The champion of the class, Taylor Schuff, is a U.S. Army Reserve combat veteran who served from 2009 to 2017 as an 88N Logistics Coordinator, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Over the course of her military career, she served in several units, including the 557th MCT, the 561st MCT, and the 75th U.S. Army Reserve Innovation Command.

Results

First Place – Taylor Schuff & BEYOND ORIGINAL
Second Place – John Halpin & MEGAS PLAYBOY
Third Place – Bruce Cummings & COME N AT YA
Stacy Pilgram & RIBBONS N ASSETS
Amy Brunelle & MR AOK TALKIN COOPER
Allen Chick & ONLY ONE WILL DO
Ryan Riley & THOR
Larry Piltingsrud & CHICS DIG FRECKLES
Bryant Florence & POTENTIAL ADVANTAGE
Kenneth Huckaby & BRAND NEE ZIPPO

About Heroes On Horses® 

Since its inception in 2011, Heroes On Horses® has provided veterans with an outlet for confidence, discipline and community. The event underscores the NSBA Foundation’s commitment to supporting the well-being and healing of people through their relationship with horses. 

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About NSBA

Established in 1983, National Snaffle Bit Association has expanded from its roots in the Western Pleasure discipline to recognize various disciplines and eight breed associations in competition. NSBA’s mission is to grow the show horse community through various equine programs and events where every activity benefits horses, breeders, owners and exhibitors alike.

National Snaffle Bit Association has more than 20,000 active members and more than 44,000 registered horses across its eight alliance breed organizations. NSBA members earn more than $13.5 million in monetary awards at NSBA-sanctioned horse shows annually, and the association sanctions nearly 600 horse show events and close to 200,000 horse show entries each year.

To learn more about NSBA, please visit nsba.com.