The 2005 MD Barns Silver Spur award winners were announced at the American Quarter Horse Association Convention in Seattle Amarillo, Texas, March 15, 2006 – The American Quarter Horse Association awarded the 2005 MD Barns Silver Spur Award to Miss Mardoc at the AQHA Convention in Seattle, Washington, on Sunday, March 5, 2006. The 1983 buckskin mare is owned by Cara Gene Harris of San Miguel, California. Cara’s best friend, Amy Woodrum had planned to nominate “Emmy” for the Silver Spur Award, but tragically Amy passed away at age 16 due to cystic fibrosis. Amy could run barrels, poles or simply trail ride with Emmy.

The mare always let the girls nap with her in the pasture or in the barn, and they always felt secure when she would put her head back and blow her sweet, soft breath. Cara says Emmy must have known that Amy needed her too. Cara was awarded a gift certificate from MD Barns for $20,000 toward the purchase of a new MD Barn, as well as a hand-crafted Montana Silversmiths buckle. First runner-up in this year’s contest was Mr Skipper Sir, a 1982 grulla gelding, owned by Corey Grandstaff of Marengo, Ohio.

The second runner-up was Pearl Drops, a 33-year-old bay mare, owned by Mary Hopkins of Vicksburg, Mississippi. Both runners-up received customized Montana Silversmiths buckles. In honor of Mr Skipper Sir and Pearl Drops, MD Barns made a $15,000 product donation in both horses’ names to the American Quarter Horse Foundation. This product donation is being made to McKenna Farms Therapy Services located in Georgia, who will be using the donation toward a covered arena. Founded in 2001 by Jessica Moore, the program has expanded from 10 children, one physical therapist and two horses to 200 children and adults, nine therapists, 10 horses and several volunteers.

In 2000, AQHA teamed with Corporate Partner MD Barns to create the Silver Spur award to recognize American Quarter Horses who have enriched the life of one or more humans, been cast into the national spotlight because of outstanding acts or created a positive image for the breed. The award is based on merit and voted on by AQHA members – it is not calculated by points or money earned. MD Enterprises Inc., manufacturer of MD Barns and Buildings, has been building barns for more than 30 years. An AQHA Corporate Partner since 1998, MD Barns produces the official barn of AQHA and is the industry’s leader in design, manufacturing and installation of pre-engineered barns, stables, out buildings, corral systems and accessories. For more information about the MD Barns Silver Spur award, visit aqha.com/association/benefits/awards.html or call (806) 376-4811.

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