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Miniature Horse Marks a Big Win for Rich Zenner at the Calgary Stampede Canadian National Miniature Horse Show

Calgary – Rich Zenner started showing horses 24 years ago but the Calgary Stampede Canadian National Miniature Horse Show Supreme Halter Horse Grand Champion win on Sunday was only his second time showing mini horses in his career.

Zenner said he owes the big win to three-year-old colt OMG Cruzin on Superstitions, who he had only shown one time before within the last month.

“He is the ultimate epitome of the perfect miniature horse,” Zenner said, adding he fell in love with him when he met him on the ranch of a friend.

“Essentially when him and I go into the show ring, we both have that same ability to want to show, to want to win and to want to be a champion. He has heart; I can’t say enough great things about him.”

And while Zenner has shown horses for years, winning the Supreme Halter Class is one of his favourite accomplishments. For the win, he recieved a Supreme Champion buckle and custom-made flowered neck sash.

“Ultimately, it’s one of the highlights of my career for sure,” he said, adding it’s all about the bond with the animal.

“I firmly believe that if you have the ability to connect with the animal, you have the ability to connect with him on different levels.”

In fact, it’s a bond that transfers to other animal sports, too.

“Whether you’re roping a steer, or showing a steer – whatever it may be – if you connect with the animal, you can do anything you put your mind to as long as you have that connection,” Zenner added.

While they may be small in stature — topping out at 34 inches tall maximum — miniature horses were originally bred for pulling carts and can pull up to three times their weight. The Calgary Stampede’s Miniature Horse shows are always a crowd favourite, especially amongst families.

Hunter/jumper, pleasure driving and obstacle are just some of the dozens of classes in the two separate American Miniature Horse Association-sanctioned shows that took place over the weekend. There were over 80 classes total with winners in each.

Visit ag.calgarystampede.com/results for the full results from the Calgary Stampede Canadian National Miniature Horse Show.

About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned 10-day Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together; we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and promotes western heritage and values. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.

See more at CalgaryStampede.com

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