If you’re involved in the world of horse showing, then you’ll know that ranch riding is one of the hottest events out there right now. From my viewpoint, it’s a unique class that allows a real, working ranch horse the opportunity to show some of their skills in a show setting. Of course, not all of the horses in the class come straight off the back 40, but I would bet any one of them could get out and cover some ground on a real ranch and be useful. I really love that the equine industry is always finding new ways to expand and include more people. 

Six-year-old Chocolate Chexed is a ranch riding queen! And if it isn’t obvious from how drop-dead gorgeous she is, then perhaps her accomplishments tell you everything you need to know about her skills. Chexie, as her owner Tangie calls her, was born in Nebraska but didn’t stay there long. After spotting the long yearling on a Dream Horse ad, Tangie scooped this girl right up. They’ve been a team ever since. 

The duo competes in both Quarter Horse and Buckskin shows in ranch riding. They’re obviously pretty good at it, and that probably has a lot to do with their relationship. While Tangie describes Chexie as a bit bossy with the other horses, it’s this characteristic of the mare that keeps her own both on her toes and giggling. It’s never surprising to me when a horse likes treats, but I really love it when the owner knows their favorites. For Chexie, it’s all about the apples and carrots. 

We didn’t even need any treats to keep Chexie struttin’ her stuff during the shoot. She’s been in front of the camera so much that she just knows how to work it. She was a photographer’s DREAM. This girl also had me completely mesmerized with her dapples. They are incredible in the photos, but that’s nothing compared to what they looked like in person.