APHA Amateur competitor Lana Markway of Kansas City, Missouri has dreamed of being at the top of the standings ever since she was a young girl.
In 2018, Markway and her five-year-old mare, CR Love Like Crazy (Lexi) finally came out on top.
“I was second my last year of 13 and under, and I have had the itch ever since, but it’s never quite been my year,” Markway shares. “This year, it wasn’t planned even though it’s always in the back of my mind. It’s still hard to believe considering Lexi was only four, and I had only shown her in hunter under saddle during her three-year-old year.”
Lana said that highlights from last year included her APHA Reserve WorldChampionship in Amateur Showmanship and winning the AmateurHonor Roll title in hunter under saddle, equitation, showmanship and western pleasure.
“Lexi is awesome,” says Lana, referring to her beloved mare. “She loves to compete, and I think that shows in the pen. Lexi learns fast, which was great because this year I started all over after having my previous horse for about five years.”
Markway told us about one funny memory she recalls from last year. “Lexi got attached to my pony. I’m pretty sure over the past year she decided it was her baby’” says Lana and laughs. “Honestly, she goes wild for Mary Carol.”
GoHorseShow asked Lana about the most significant challenges she faced while on the road. “Having a full-time job and doing it by myself last year. It was tough. I’m only able to ride on weekends, so that makes it a bit difficult,” says Lana, who has a demanding job as a social worker who works with individuals with developmental disabilities. Markway continues, “I also live an hour from the barn, so I have to drive to the barn, load and hit the road again when heading to a show.”
Lana told us she had many people to thank who were instrumental in her success this past year. “First and foremost – my mom. She is my biggest fan and critic. She has been there every step of the way through my show career. Of course, without the support from my husband, none of this would be possible. Also, Troy Lehn and Brad Ost were a huge help when they stepped in this fall. Lexi is currently enjoying Texas with them and the Empyre Show Horses team.”
This year, Lana plans on showing her four-year-old mare, CR Walk The Line this Spring and then show Lexi at the NSBA and APHA World Show later in the year.
“Troy and I helped Lana at the APHA World Show, and we are excited to have her as a part of the team now,” says Brad Ost. “She’s a talented non-pro with a talented young horse. So, it was easy to give some last minute tips to get them to step up. She’s already been successful, and we hope to keep that going and maybe add some bigger shows with her.”
Lana adds, “I really would like to thank everyone along the way. I have learned from everyone I have ridden with, and without them, I wouldn’t be the rider I am today.”
Photos © Kirstie Marie Photography and Larry Williams
