Robert Chown Chosen for 2010 NRBC Media Award

            Thanks to great media support, the National Reining Breeders Classic has enjoyed superb exposure in print, radio, and television media, so each year, the NRBC recognizes one outstanding media outlet or personality with the NRBC Media Award. That honoree is recognized in the arena, and presented with the signature Aysha Hoffman framed print that has become the hallmark of the award.

The NRBC announced in mid-October that Robert Chown, of Gainesville, Texas, will be the recipient in 2010. Chown is the host of the award-winning television show Wide World of Horses.

“I was very surprised and honored to receive this award. It combines two things that are very special to me – the greatest reining in the world, the NRBC, and the number 1 rated show on RFD-TV, Wide World of Horses. I appreciate the individual credit I have received from the NRBC shows, but the amazing content the NRBC provides, combined with the quality production of Wide World of Horses, really helps you look good,” Chown modestly explained.

Part of Robert’s appeal as a host and commentator on Wide World of Horses is his insight into the horse show community. As a 19-time World Champion, he has been to the Open Finals at every major National Reining Horse Association and National Reined Cow Horse Association event in which he has competed, including the NRBC and the NRCHA World’s Greatest Horseman.

But he can relate to the event’s participants on other levels, as well, as he has been on the leading earners list not only as a rider, but also as an owner and breeder.

“We could not think of anyone more deserving of the 2010 NRBC Media Award than Robert. He has a natural rapport with the people he interviews, and Wide World of Horses viewers can’t help but be pulled in by his engaging personality,” said NRBC Media coordinator Savannah Howell. “We feel very fortunate that he has become such an integral part of the NRBC.”

Past NRBC Media Award winners are Wide World of Horses in 2009, Tonya Garrison in 2008, Abby Whitaker in 2007, Lee Schneider in 2006, Horseman’s Radio Weekly and Bridle and Bit in 2005, Reiner Magazine in 2004, Southwest Horse Trader in 2003, America’s Horse and ANCR Reiner in 2002, Waltenberry Productions in 2001, and Quarter Horse News in 2000.

The National Reining Breeders Classic is the most successful stallion incentive program in reining history. In just twelve years, the NRBC has grown to include upwards of 275 subscribed stallions and in 2009, there were over 2,800 enrolled foals. Annually, the payout at the National Reining Breeders Classic exceeds $1.25 million. For information on the NRBC, visit the web site at www.nrbc.com or call 580-759-3939.