Supply & Demand: Shaping the Future of the Breed

This forum explored how supply, demand, and market perception are shaping the future of Saddlebred and Morgan horses. Panelists agreed that the industry’s biggest challenge is not a lack of horses, but how horses are developed, marketed, and presented to buyers. A recent high-response “horse wanted” listing highlighted strong demand—particularly for well-presented, mid-priced horses—reinforcing the importance of professional marketing and a positive buying experience.

Discussion also focused on how many foals never reach the show ring, raising questions about development pipelines rather than overbreeding. The role of collaboration—among breeders, trainers, sellers, and key communities involved in starting young horses—was emphasized as essential to improving quality and placement. Expanding divisions, inclusive events, and alternative pathways beyond top- level championships were highlighted as critical for creating opportunity, retaining participants, and adding value for horses and riders at every stage.

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“The Power of Positive Training and Coaching: Building Confidence, Communication, and Connection”

Betty Baird Kregor led the forum on “Correction to Connection” through positive coaching. With decades of experience in coaching and sports psychology, Betty has

empowered athletes of all levels to enhance their performance through self-awareness, mindset training, strategic development, and her unique proprietary system. She was joined on the panel by Georgia Morrison and Tiffany Wheeler. Together, they shared insights designed to help trainers, coaches, instructors, and mentors improve

performance outcomes through calm, clear communication and relationship-based

coaching strategies.

This session explored how mental preparation, environment, and coaching style directly influence rider performance. Panelists emphasized the importance of getting riders into an optimal mental state before entering the ring—focused on the present moment, calm, and ready to trust their training. Trainers were encouraged to separate technique training (learning and repetition at home) from execution mode on show day, where no new instruction should occur. Trainers were encouraged to adapt their coaching strategy to each rider’s personality, goals, and experience level, noting that confidence, language, and tone play a major role in performance. Tools such as quiet eye training, visualization, goal sheets, and post-ride reflection were highlighted as effective ways to reduce distractions and improve execution. The session also addressed sensitive but important topics, such as

physical fitness, stressing thoughtful communication, and goal-based conversations that support rider wellness and horse welfare.

Judging 101: What are judges really looking for in the ring?



This session focused on how judges evaluate classes and what exhibitors can do to present their horses more effectively in the ring. Panelists emphasized that judging begins—and ends—with the class specifications. Judges must place horses based on what the class calls for, not overall reputation, past wins, or perceived favoritism.

Showmanship, presentation, and attention to detail were highlighted as critical differentiators, especially in competitive classes. Riders are expected not only to ride

correctly, but to “sell” themselves and their horses through confidence, consistency, and purposeful performance. Judges noted that misunderstandings about favoritism often

stem from limited judging experience, emphasizing that placements are shaped by specs, visibility, and the realities of limited viewing time. The discussion also addressed controversial rules such as stripping and backing, with

broad agreement that safety and practicality—particularly in juvenile and amateur classes—should drive future rule considerations. Judges reinforced their responsibility

for safety, welfare, and consistency, while encouraging continued education, transparency, and constructive dialogue to strengthen trust and understanding across

the industry.

From the Ground Up: How Every Role Shapes The Horse Industry



The Empowering the Horse Industry forum focused on the powerful, often-unrecognized skills developed through everyday life in the horse industry. Framed around the idea

that our industry functions as an interconnected ecosystem, the session explored how barn and show environments naturally build leadership, communication, business

awareness, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. Attendees were encouraged to reflect on their personal strengths, understand the responsibilities that come with them, and recognize that leaning into what they do best not only supports their own growth but also strengthens the horse industry as a whole. The forum concluded by highlighting UPHA’s role in providing opportunities to extend these skills beyond the barn through involvement, leadership, and committee service.

How to Crack the Nut-Beyond the Barn Doors:

The Business Realities of the Horse World



Running a successful barn isn’t just about great horses—it’s about smart systems, steady cash flow, and knowing your numbers. The “Crack the Nut “forum took a practical look at the financial realities of running a horse business, focusing on budgeting, cash flow, and understanding the true

cost of monthly operations. Panelists stressed that success isn’t just about what you charge, but about clearly knowing what you owe each month and organizing finances so essential costs are covered first. Recurring invoicing, show deposits, and advance budgeting were highlighted as key tools to stabilize cash flow and reduce financial stress.

Separating accounts by function—such as operating, shows, trucking, and academies—was strongly encouraged to provide clarity and avoid a false sense of profitability. Speakers also emphasized the value of being frugal with necessities to allow room for long-term goals, investments, and unexpected expenses. In addition to managing expenses, the panel discussed creating additional

income streams to strengthen financial stability. Ideas included leasing lesson horses, teaching clinics, hosting day camps, charging for tack or tail switch use, and offering specialized services that add value without significantly increasing overhead. Understanding true cost per stall, pricing for profit—not just break-even—and using streamlined billing systems were underscored as essential for long-term sustainability as industry costs

continue to rise.

“Generations in Conversation” – Ideas Across Ages: Shared Paths, Different Steps



The “Generations in Conversation” forum brought together seasoned horse industry professionals of all ages to reflect on shared experiences, evolving challenges, and the

collective responsibility of shaping the future. Panelists shared that success rarely follows a straight path—most careers begin with hard work, long hours, and years of

learning before opportunity comes. Strong emphasis was placed on treating the profession as a business: building assets, planning for longevity, and preparing for the physical demands of the job. Relationships and community were highlighted as the industry’s greatest strength, along with the importance of mentorship and clear communication between generations. UPHA’s role as a professional association was reinforced, with encouragement for members to stay engaged and help grow the sport especially through grassroots, lesson, and academy programs. The conversation closed with a reminder that challenges, setbacks, and change are part of the journey, and that professionalism, honesty, and collaboration are key to long-term success.