Training background and methods: Jirkovsky’s specialize in training all-around horses and that is what they have done with Richie. They have a particular knack with stallions. The stallions they have trained don’t behave like typical studs. In most cases you wouldn’t know they were studs. They ride consistently, but don’t push too hard. The horses are drug and injection free. Jirkovskys have trained many horses to go on to earn World and National Championships. They have seven Worlds Best Appaloosa titles under their belt. Jim and Sandy are true assets to all of us in the ApHC and the horse world in general.
Accomplishments: 2004 World’s Best Appaloosa, 2003 & 2002 Reserve World’s Best Appaloosa, Multiple World & National Champion, ApHC Supreme Champion, Silver Medallion, Six Time Canadian National Champion, 2000 MAHA Super Horse, 2001 RRVISSP Super Horse, ApHC Champion Horse, Versatility Champion, Multiple Regional High Point, Multiple ApHC Year-End High Point and Year-End Finalist, Superiors in Hunter-In-Hand Stallions, Junior Trail, and Most Colorful at Halter, 18+ Register of Merits.
How long have you owned your horse? We have owned him since he was a baby. We really liked both his sire and dam. As soon as we saw him we knew we had to have him. He was sired by “State Of The Art” and was born on Valentine’s Day, hence his registered name “State Of Dee Heart”. He was also born with a heart shaped spot on his blanket.
What do you feel is unique about your horse? Richie is a great all-around horse. He has great color and size. He is truly athletic and versatile, at the same time is very gentle.
What sort of activities do you and your horse participate in? Cattle events, Games, Halter, Trail Classes, Western and English. Richie also likes to work at the farm. He ponies his babies to get them fit for shows.
Tell us about your horse: We cannot say enough about his excellent disposition. Our 8 year-old daughter Natalie has been riding him for several years. He has also been used as a kid horse for lessons. Ritchie also has a lot of heart and try. He does anything asked of him. At the 2003 Appaloosa World Show he placed top-ten in 14 out of 16 classes entered, and in four different categories (cattle, games, halter, western). At the 2004 show he was qualified and was shown in 17 classes, then won the versatility title of World’s Best Appaloosa. This horse has a sound mind, a fit body, and a huge heart!
What do you feed your horse? Nutrena’s XTN feed. We feel what you feed your horse is very important component to their success. You can invest a lot of money in training, show expense, tack, etc…, so then why stop short with nutrition. We also have him on the daily wormer Strongid C2X and as a preventative measure we protect his joints with the feed supplements MSM and Joint Rescue.
