Buster Welch Receives 2012 National Golden Spur Award From the Ranching Heritage Association

National Cutting Horse Association veteran Buster Welch, Rotan, Texas, received the prestigious National Golden Spur Award from the Ranching Heritage Association this past weekend in Lubbock, Texas.  He was honored in front of an audience of more than 400 attendees.

Welch was chosen for his commitment to the ranching industry.  Aside from his untouched record five NCHA Futurity wins and four NCHA World Champion titles, Welch's longtime goal was to be a cattle rancher - a dream he's been able to live for more than 20 years.

The award was presented to Welch at a dinner and reception at the Overton Hotel and Convention Center in Lubbock.  Master of Ceremonies was R.W. Hampton, Cimarron, NM, and Tio Kleberg, Kingsville, Texas, presented Welch with the award.

Welch's accomplishments also afforded him induction into the NCHA Riders and Members Halls of Fame, and he was a recipient of the Charles Goodnight Award, presented to an individual each year who helps preserve ranching.  He was also inducted into the AQHA Hall of Fame.

The National Golden Spur Award dates more than three decades.  This annual award is given as a joint recognition by the American Quarter Horse Association, National Cattlemen's Foundation, Ranching Heritage Association, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Texas Cattle Feeders Association, and Texas Farm Bureau.  It honors men and women who have made outstanding contributions to the livestock and ranching industries.

(left to right) Johnny Trotter, AQHA; Dr. Glenn Blodgett, 6666 Ranch; Buster Welch; Tio Kleberg, King Ranch; Don Treadway, AQHA Executive Vice President

 
The National Cutting Horse Association has more than 20,000 members from a wide range of backgrounds. Each year more than 2,200 NCHA-approved events are held throughout North America, with more than $40 million in prize money awarded. For more information visit www.nchacutting.com or call (817) 244-6188.