Soon it was time for Katie to be started under saddle. In November '98, after her last halter class in Yuma Arizona, Katie was on her way to college with Sherry Krig. The only expectation and hope was “that she just be able to be competitive in something”.

By March '99, Katie had her Open APHA Championship and she was on a roll. Later she teamed up with Heather Nielsen for the 14-18 Youth events. To date she has accumulated a total of 664+ points in 14 events (538+ of those being Performance points and 126 Halter points). She has 6 Superior awards in 4 events, and was on the 1999 APHA Honor Roll in Junior Trail.

Much of Katie's success is attributed to Heather's talent and their special relationship. Heather and Katie competed in many Open events as well as Youth events. Heather will be taking time off from the show arena. She will be attending Colorado State University to pursue degrees in Animal Science and Agricultural Business with concentration in Agriculture Communications.

Katie will be taking time off to become a mom next breeding season. Before she does, the goal will be to complete her Youth APHA Championship and Open Superior All Around awards.

Katie is proof that dreams do come true. With determination, luck and hard work from remarkable people combined with a very special and talented individual our dreams came true.

"Thank you" to all the competitors, judges, friends and fans.

And special thanks to Heather Nielsen, Sherry Krig and Terri Nielsen (Katie’s biggest fans and supporter's). We couldn't possibly list everyone individually who has been so very important to Katie, but you know who you are. Thank you!

Katie is very special to us and we have been so very fortunate and truly blessed to be able to share these memorable experiences with all of you. Katie is one example of our goal we are constantly striving toward, "Breeding for Excellence in Halter and Performance!"

• 664+ points in 14 events
• 127 Halter points
• 538+ Performance points
• APHA Open Champion
• APHA Open Performance Versatility
• APHA Youth Performance Versatility
• Superiors in Open and Amateur Halter
• Superior in Open Hunter Under Saddle
• Superior in Open Trail
• Superiors in Open and Youth Western Pleasure
• 1999 APHA Honor Roll Junior Trail
• Youth Versatility

Katie MacHeathen Photo Gallery