By Kenny Andrews
Despite the rain, mud, and tornado warnings. The UBHA 2015 South Dakota Classic, held in Martin SD, was a success that lured in horses from Oregon, Utah, Texas, Oklahoma and everywhere in between. The event was hosted by Joe Waln of Waln Rodeos. Joe, a South Dakota native, is in his second year of producing the event. When asked what inspired Joe to get involved with the UBHA and put on such an event with his already busy schedule of producing rodeos and operating a 300-head cow operation, this is what he had to say: “With the creation of the UBHA last year, my wife Laney and I wanted to help this association grow and succeed. Deciding to have an event in our part of the United States was something we thought would help the UBHA grow. And grow it has. We went from 41 entries last year to 66 colts this year. It’s exciting to have an outlet to showcase these horses. It also helps breeders like us, who have a colt crop of ten at most, expose these colts to the public. We were also pleased to see all faces of the new members who traveled the miles they did to come join the fun and be a part of the UBHA. We welcome you and thank you for supporting our event.” This year’s futurity was no easy task for the four judges on hand. In just the two-year-old class alone, there were over 9 colts with markings over 80 points. A little bay filly owned by Smith/GF buckers nabbed 1st with 90 points. Weldon Blacks #353 was second, with 86. Waters Rodeos #332 was 85.5 for third. In the three year old class, the 2014 horse of the year BF SOB, owned by Waln Rodeos split the win with #277, also owned by Waln Rodeos with a 87.5. Lance Lesmeister’s #252 placed second with 85, and Ken Realbird’s, K was 83.5 points. K Bar A Bucking Horses, Seven of Hearts, topped the yearling class with 79 points, and G.G., also owned by K Bar A Bucking Horses was second, with 78.5. Waln Rodeos Pappa Bear was third with 77 points. For more information about the UBHA and upcoming events, horse and contractor results, as well as membership, please visit www.ubhabucks.com.
