Chuck Stuart of Tuttle, OK, was recently recognized by the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) for being the second Ride America® participant to reach the 10,000-hour level in that program’s history. The recreational riding initiative recognizes APHA members’ independent riding time on their American Paint Horses. Stuart logged his remarkable number of hours aboard his nine-year-old sorrel tovero gelding Pretty And Cool, who he calls “Toby.”

“I got involved with the Ride America program from APHA’s web site, and it slowly developed from there,” said Stuart, who added that his favorite places to ride during 2007 were the state parks in eastern Oklahoma, where he earned double program hours.

For his achievement, Stuart was presented with a custom Gist Silversmiths trophy buckle by APHA President Carl Thurow at a recent APHA show that was hosted by the Oklahoma Paint Horse Club, a regional affiliate of the association.

“The future winners of this buckle truly have something to look forward to,” said Stuart.

More about Ride America
Today, more than 6,000 APHA members are enrolled in the recreational riding program and are earning rewards for what they already do—spending time on their American Paint Horse.

To learn more about the Ride America program, visit www.apha.com/rideamerica or call (817) 834-2742.