Back on April 1, 2010, I posted a contest that would allow readers to win an autographed Shane Doan jersey. Doan is the captain of Phoenix Coyotes and hails from Halkirk, Alberta. He also has a thing for Quarter Horses! Sadly, the Phoenix Coyotes are out of the playoffs for this year, but no one can argue that the desert team played their hearts out to get as far in the 2010 Stanley Cup Conference Quarterfinals as they did.
In honor of that great feat – an accomplishment that has caused many Phoenix fans to come out of the woodwork and salute a team which started the season with a long shot chance of making the playoffs – and Doan\’s love for horses, I asked readers to tell me who their heroes-with-horse connections were. Here are some of the answers I received:
Susan Wall Said:
\”My horsey hero’s are the ladies from Wild Deuce Outfitters – Terri McKinney and Brenda Murdock. They love to share knowledge and fun with all their clients. What started out as a client/clinician relationship has blossomed into some very special friendships. I am continually amazed at their positive effects on both people and horses to keep all safe and working together. Beautiful people they are!!\”
Justin Said:
\”I would have to say Jim Stewart. He was always promoting horses from youth academy clubs to local clubs to the national level you could always count on him. An all around fine human being.\”
And drum roll please… the winner of the signed jersey!
Joyce Said:
\”That is a tough question. There have been so many I could probably write one for every day this month. I would have to say my hero is Brenda Nobel. She is always willing to help anybody. Brenda has been riding since she was a very young girl and still competes at local shows and barrel racing. I never started riding again until I was in my 40ties and Brenda, being older than myself, always inspires me to keep working to be better. Brenda always has time to discuss any horse problem and will help you and your horse. Brenda is the first one to help a young rider. She will be right beside you encouraging you all the way. (Yelling at you from the sidelines if you need it). At the local shows it gives old and young someone to turn to. The young riders are so thrilled if they come close to or beat Brenda at at show. She is very tough to beat but she will be the first to tell you that you only win with hard work. She rides every day that she can. I have had the thrill of riding with Brenda this winter and she is my hero.\”
And just in case you want to take a peek at my highly sophisticated method of picking a winner…
Congratulations Joyce!!