Longtime horsewoman Patty Baker of Olympia, Washington, will be honored June 26, 2025, with the Markel/APHA Professional Horsewoman of the Year award.
Since age 8, Patty knew she had a love for training horses—her father bought the budding equestrienne an unbroke 2-year-old and turned her loose. Patty jumped feet-first into her training journey and now has been a professional horsewoman for more than 40 years.
From 4-H and open show exhibitors to world-champion competitors in Paint and Appaloosa breed shows, Patty has helped mold the next generation of horses and riders. Teaching others is impactful, she says, as it gives them skills that provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Many of her former riders have become horse show judges, professional trainers and clinicians themselves.
Patty runs Baker Training Stable LLC, a full-service facility in Olympia, Washington. Two decades ago, daughters Monica Baker-Webb and Kara Baker-Whitsell, joined the business, and the trio has diligently grown the business. In addition to training young horses, giving lessons, competing and giving clinics, the Bakers give back through community service projects, coaching local 4-H and high-school equestrian teams, and more. Patty is president of the Washington State Paint Horse Club, a role she’s held for eight years. She’s also served as an APHA state director and committee member.
“I’m very honored to be awarded the APHA Professional Horsewoman of the Year,” Patty said. “I’m 73 and it means a lifetime of commitment, care and community with other enthusiastic advocates of our beloved horses. I believe there is so much power in words, teaching and leadership. That is what lead me to join the APHA Professional Horseman program. We can do more together.”
Celebrating Greatness
First awarded in 2017, the Markel/APHA Professional Horseman of the Year award honors a hardworking professional who exemplifies the Professional Horsemen’s code of ethics and serves as a positive ambassador of Paint Horses and the overall equine industry. APHA Director of Judges & Professional Horsemen Sandy Jirkovsky calls Patty a model for the program.
“Patty Baker embodies longevity and excellence in the horse industry,” Sandy said. “Not only has she trained world champions, but she is also the proud mother of two exceptionally talented horsewomen who are making their own mark in the show ring. Her sharp eye and wise guidance are deeply valued by her daughters and grandchildren alike. Always ready to lend a helping hand to new exhibitors and known for her ever-present smile, Patty is truly deserving of this prestigious honor.”
Patty and other distinguished guests will be honored on June 26 at the APHA Hall of Fame & Awards Ceremony. It takes place at Will Rogers Memorial Center in Fort Worth, Texas, in conjunction with the 2025 APHA World Championship Show. Other year-end award winners honored at the event include APHA’s newest Hall of Fame class, High-Point Open Exhibitor, Judge Emeritus recipients, Don Manuello Ring Steward Award winner and more.
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