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About the Cover
Estelle McParlan will walk into familiar arenas with unfamiliar challenges at this year’s All American Quarter Horse Congress. With three new training partnerships, her first ranch classes and a freshman semester underway at the University of Georgia, the World and Congress Champion has plenty left to learn – and that’s what excites her.
World and Congress Champion, Cool Made Machine, known as “Booker,” will join McParlan in the 15–18 Youth All-Around events under the guidance of Sara Simons Show Horses. The program has spent the past two months getting to know Booker and preparing the pair for Columbus.
“It’s hard to put into words how excited and grateful I am to be a part of Sara’s program,” McParlan says.
Money Gate, or “Drew,” has reunited with Winter Performance Horses for the 15–18 Youth Western Riding. McParlan loves seeing him back in his familiar routine with Adam Winter.
Meanwhile, Jerrell Performance Horses is helping her prepare Ohh What A Nite, known as “Cosmo,” for Level 1 Youth Ranch Riding and Youth Working Western Rail. She credits Clayton Jerrell with giving her the confidence to make her ranch debut on one of the industry’s biggest stages.
For all the changes, the Michigan native’s Congress memories remain closely tied to Amarillo By Moonlite, affectionately called “Larry.” Together, they won multiple championships at her first Congress and a World Championship in 2024.
She first got Larry as a novice 13-and-under rider. His quirks and their struggles became essential to her education.
“We have been through plenty of ups and downs together, but he has truly shaped me into the rider I am today,” she says.
Larry is taking time away from competition, though McParlan hopes they will show together again. “He will always be my heart horse.”
Those years also taught her to measure progress beyond placings.
“I can control how prepared I am, how I show up for my horse, and how I respond when something doesn’t go well,” she says.
Now, as a member of UGA’s equestrian team, McParlan is finding more opportunities to grow. She is grateful for her collegiate coaches and teammates and their support of her Congress plans. After her final youth season in 2027, she intends to continue competing in the amateur all-around events.
For McParlan, working with new trainers and trying new events means adding to an education built over years, with every horse and coach contributing something she can carry forward.
“One thing I’ve learned is that you don’t have to forget what you’ve learned just because you start something new.”
GoHorseShow wishes her the best of luck at the Congress and in all her future endeavors.
CLICK HERE to view the October issue of GoMag
Cover Design: Jakovich Marketing – Cover Photo: Kirstie Marie Photography – NCEA Photo: Camille Menzies/UGAAA
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