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Craig Schmersal petting horse

CRAIGSCHMERSAL

Reining Champion & Trainer

Born and raised in Ohio, Craig Schmersal followed his passion for horses to become the 3rd all-time leading rider in the National Reining Horse Association. Craig, a 5-million-dollar money earner, is the only 4 Level 4 Open champion of all five major events: The Run for a Million, The NRHA Futurity, The NRHA Derby, The National Reining Breeders Classic, and The Quarter Horse Congress. Craig was a multiple-time gold and silver medalist for Team USA at the World Equestrian Games in 2002, 2006, and 2010. Craig was also named the 2019 Horseman of the Year.

Craig resides in Scottsdale, AZ, with his wife, Ginger, and their four kids.

EPISODE 1:Lessons Learned, Passion for Horses

Craig Schmersal acknowledges the constant learning curve with horses, emphasizing the unpredictability of their abilities and personalities. Watch the video to understand how he finds fulfillment in the mental stimulation and enthusiastically embraces the journey, despite the challenges.

EPISODE 2:FUELING PERFORMANCE

Craig highlights the critical importance of nutrition for his horses, likening it to fueling athletes for top performance. Craig prioritizes proper nutrition as a cornerstone of his horse care regimen, refusing to compromise on their well-being.

EPISODE 3:LEAVING LEGACIES

Craig reflects on his deep-rooted love for horses and his commitment to his family, brand, and integrity in his approach to training. He prioritizes his horses’ well-being and aims to set an example for his children. Craig remains dedicated to doing right by the life he loves.

I think the thing that I have learned most about horses is that I don't know a lot about horses.

Craig Schmersal
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EPISODE 46: HOW FAMILY MAKES THE REINING HORSE DREAM A REALITY WITH CRAIG SCHMERSAL

Co-host Katy Starr has an open conversation with 5 million dollar reining rider and reality TV star, Craig Schmersal about life in the limelight with The Last Cowboy TV series and the Run for a Million, the richest event in the history of reining. As well as why he’ll never put winning above the welfare of the horse and his expert advice for those wanting to pursue a reining career.

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