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Madeleine “Maddie” McGraw, who competes in the 13 & Under division, is ending the show season grateful for the sort of year most youth exhibitors aspire to. Her 2025 season has been filled with breakout moments, marked by poise, consistency, and undeniable talent in the show pen.
Her proudest accomplishment came at the 2025 NSBA World Championship Show with Shesa Cool Diva. Aboard the beautiful 3-year-old mare, she earned the Reserve World Championship – a defining highlight in a year filled with milestones.
But for Maddie, one memory outshines them all: the moment she and close friend Ella Kate Herman found themselves as the last two riders in the arena in Tulsa during their Youth Western Pleasure class. “We had talked about that happening,” Maddie says with a smile. “And then it actually did. I was so excited for both of us.”
Her success this year didn’t happen by chance. Maddie’s dedication has deepened, and so has her diversity in the show pen. One of the biggest surprises of the season came when her trainers, Chase Barnes and Jennifer Stein invited her to try a ranch riding horse. Without hesitation, she said yes. That horse, Dunnit In A Magnum, affectionately known as Bentley, has quickly become a favorite. “He’s my trainer, Jenn’s heart horse,” Maddie says. “He’s so special and so fun to ride. I’m really excited to show him in the ranch all-around this year.”
Of course, Maddie’s name has become synonymous with another standout: Shesa Cool Diva, the talented mare known as Madonna. Fresh off an extraordinary NSBA World Show that included multiple Top Tens, Top Fives, and a Reserve World Championship, Madonna will soon be adding a new skill to her already impressive resume. “She’s starting trail this year,” Maddie explains. “Jessica Spilman will show her in maiden trail, and I’m hoping by the end of the year, I’ll get to show her in trail, too.”
Though 2025 has been her strongest season to date, Maddie’s foundation was built long before. She learned to ride on minis at her grandparents’ farm, showed in Leadline, and earned early accolades on her first show horse. She grew into a polished competitor aboard Tool Man, earning titles including Top 5 at the NSBA World Show, Level 1 East Champion in 13 & Under Western Pleasure, and Reserve Champion at the AQHYA World Show. Maddie’s passion for showing has been undeniable.
Now doing her schooling online, Maddie is ready for what’s next, starting with the Gold Coast show at the World Equestrian Center in Florida. “I’m so thankful for my grandparents, my trainers, and my mom,” she says. “I can’t wait to get to the next arena.”
“I’m proud beyond words,” Maddie’s mom, Lexi Newfield told us. “Her accomplishments mean a lot, but the way she treats people and animals matters even more. She leads with kindness, she works so hard, and she never stops striving to be better.”
Everyone at GoHorseShow wishes the best of luck to Maddie, Madonna and Bentley in 2026 and beyond!
CLICK HERE to view the December Issue of GoMag
Cover Design: Jakovich Marketing – Cover Image: Cody Parmenter
The deadline for the January Stallion Issue of GoMag is Sunday, December 28th. To reserve your space, call or text Suzannah Fuhrman, GoHorseShow’s Co-founder and Executive Vice President at 214-449-8716 or email her at Suzannah@GoHorseShow.com. She will be happy to answer any of your questions and can help design an advertising package to fit your needs and budget perfectly. GoHorseShow…Where The Winners Go.
