Colorful Victories at 2012 NBHA Mid-South Nationals
Two American Paint Horses take top honors tracing the cloverleaf

Paint Horses burned up the barrel pattern at the National Barrel Horse Association Mid-South Nationals April 13–15 in Jackson, Mississippi.

Reese Johnson and Spotless Credit clinched the Mid-South National Youth 4D Division title. Photo credit: Kenneth Springer.

Skeet Davis of Grand Bay, Alabama, and his 12-year-old chestnut tobiano gelding, SC Rains Okie Star, took home championship honors in the Senior 4D division at the Mid-South Nationals. By CC Double Rain and out of Caesars Clasi Lady, "Boomer" was bred by Tommy and Amy Enfinger of Hartford, Alabama, and is owned by Skeet.

"It was all about Boomer because he took me through the pattern," Skeet said. "When I go to a horse show, he gets pictures taken of him—win, lose or draw—because he is such a pretty horse and his attitude is just as good as his looks. That’s why I like Paints."

The victory was especially sweet for Skeet; injuries to both horse and rider had kept them out of the competitive arena for several years.

"I have been trying for 15 years to win something like this," Skeet said.

Skeet Davis turns SC Rains Okie Star around the barrel to win the Mid-South Senior 4D title. Photo credit: Kenneth Springer.

Reese Johnson of Carriere, Mississippi, and her 7-year-old black solid Paint-bred gelding, Spotless Credit, topped the Youth 4D division ranks. By EP Cash Oreo and out of Princess Caine, "Spotless" was bred by Sherree Shaw of Perkinston, Mississippi.