FEBRUARY 2026 THE RIDER /17


Executive Directors: President


Newsletter, Media & The Rider Submissions Amanda Law


NCHA Area 21 Director Eric Van Boekel Amanda Law


Sponsorship Contact: Heather MacArthur


519-879-6699 613-200-1235


613-200-1235


Vice-President Eric Van Boekel 519-879-6699 thehappyhoggers@execulink.com Treasurer


Amanda Law Deb Carruth


thehappyhoggers@execulink.com amandalaw@live.com


amandalaw@live.com h.macarthur@gmail.com


Ontario Cutting Horse Association 613-200-1235 amandalaw@live.com


Directors: Greg Crispin John Martin John Purdie


Logan Donaldson Shelley Hagen Heather McArthur


523 Queen Street Dunnville, ON N1A 1J5 or e-transfer and forms can be sent to entries@ontariocuttinghorseassociation.com


Please direct mail to our treasurer: Deb Carruth


www.ontariocuttinghorseassociation.com


By Karen Hudon It is with heavy hearts


In Loving Memory of Donald Gary Hughes A pioneer in the field,


lationships that continued well into his career. Describing Gary’s im-


that we celebrate the life of Donald Gary Hughes, who left us on January 2nd, 2026, his 74th birthday, after a brave battle with ill- ness. Gary was a beloved life partner to Mindy May Jenkins, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Gary’s journey in the


world of cutting horses began with Dale and Jean Purdy, where he laid the foundation for a remarkable career. He later worked in Lake Charles, Louisiana, for Spook Stream, and with Keith Barnett in Indiana, re-


pact on cutting in Ontario is no small feat; it’s truly an understatement to say he was crucial. Both Gary and Mindy May were long-time participants in the Ontario Cutting Horse Association (OCHA), and anyone who crossed paths with him rec- ognized his extraordinary skills as a horseman. His horses were always his top priority, and the care and at- tention they received were unparalleled. Gary’s knowl- edge and patience provided his equine pupils with the best opportunities to learn and grow, helping them reach their full potential.


Gary was one of the first in Ontario to work with buf- falo instead of cattle, paving the way for others to follow. His accomplishments with the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) were impressive, amassing nearly $150,000 in earnings in an era when prize money was significantly lower than today. He was a familiar face in the winner’s circle, showcasing his talent on re- markable horses like Sweet Olena, Doc’s Sandy Acre, and Jewels Missy. One of Gary’s most ad-


mirable qualities was his pa- tience—not only with horses but especially with the many riders he taught


and coached. As a mentor, he had a gift for making complex ideas easy to un- derstand, helping even the most challenging students improve. For those who may not


have known Gary early in his career, you might be sur- prised to learn about his suc- cess at prestigious events like The Calgary Stampede, the PNE in British Colum- bia, and the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio. He also competed at various locations across the U.S., showcasing his talent and dedication. Throughout his illustri-


ous career, Gary served as a National Cutting Horse As- sociation judge, a show pro- moter and sponsor, a director, and a skilled far- rier. He even found time to work on movie sets and use his horses in commercials, effortlessly slipping into the role of a cowboy. In 2011, Gary and


Mindy May made the move to Alberta, first settling at Bill and Elaine Speights’ ranch, and later finding their dream ranch in Claresholm, surrounded by breathtaking views. The summer of 2022 was a testament to Gary’s unwavering spirit; despite recovering from surgery, he showcased his tenacity at the ACHA show in Claresholm with a some- what green mare, Bet Shesa Cats Meow. It was a joy to see them shine, proving that


Getting ready for show season? Show judging.


• AQHA L1 Judge. • Hunter/ Jumper • All Western Classes • Obstacle events (Mountain Trail, Extreme Cowboy, Working Equitation)


Clinics


and lessons. Need a fresh perspective? Freelance coaching at Ontario farms. For competitive or just-for-fun riders.


Visit www.lindsaygriceridingcoach.com


they hadn’t missed a beat! As we remember Gary,


let us find comfort in the memories and the legacy


he leaves behind. Rest in peace, Gary, and a heartfelt thank you to Mindy May Jenkins for helping to share


this beautiful story, even through the pain of loss.


Photos by Don Crawford Advertise Your


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