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Fordham Family Receives AQHA Show Legacy Award for 70+ Years of Excellence

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. how-legacy-award-for-70-years-of-excellence.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 13:56 GMT by Sports Illustrated
      Locale: Texas, UNITED STATES

The Fordham Family: A Lifetime Dedicated to American Quarter Horses Honored by AQHA

The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) recently announced the Fordham family as recipients of its prestigious Show Legacy Award, recognizing their profound and enduring impact on the sport of showing. This award, presented annually, celebrates families who have demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, and promotion of the American Quarter Horse throughout generations – and the Fordhams undeniably fit that description. The announcement, detailed in an article by Jake Rahn for Sports Illustrated’s FanNation Rodeo, highlights a legacy spanning over seven decades, deeply intertwined with the history and evolution of AQHA showing.

The Fordham family's story begins with Robert "Bob" Fordham Sr., who started his journey in the horse world as a young boy growing up on a farm in Iowa. He initially worked with draft horses but quickly developed a passion for American Quarter Horses, captivated by their versatility and athleticism. This early fascination led him to purchase his first show horse in 1952 – a mare named Miss Sparkle – marking the official beginning of the Fordham family’s involvement in AQHA showing. Bob Sr.'s vision wasn't just about winning; it was about building strong horses, fostering good horsemanship, and creating a positive environment for everyone involved.

The family’s operation, initially based in Iowa before relocating to Oklahoma City, quickly grew from a small hobby into a significant breeding and training program. Bob Sr.'s dedication extended beyond simply raising quality horses; he was known for his meticulous attention to detail, emphasizing conformation, temperament, and trainability. He instilled these values in his children – Robert "Bobby" Fordham Jr., and Susan Fordham – who would later become integral parts of the family’s legacy.

The Show Legacy Award isn't just about past achievements; it acknowledges the continuation of that commitment across generations. Bobby Fordham Jr. took over much of the day-to-day operations after his father’s passing, maintaining the high standards and values established by Bob Sr. He expanded the breeding program, focusing on producing horses competitive in a wide range of disciplines including Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle, and Halter. Bobby's wife, Lisa Fordham, has also been instrumental, contributing her expertise to the training and management aspects of the operation.

Susan Fordham, while not directly involved in daily operations, remains a passionate supporter of the family’s legacy and an active advocate for the American Quarter Horse industry. Her involvement underscores the familial nature of the award – it's about more than just individual accomplishments; it's about shared values and a collective dedication to the sport.

The Fordham family’s influence extends beyond their breeding and training successes. They have consistently championed ethical practices within the AQHA showing community, emphasizing fair play and respect for competitors. They’ve also been generous in sharing their knowledge and experience with others, mentoring young riders and trainers, and contributing to educational programs that promote horsemanship. This commitment to fostering a positive environment is a key factor in their selection for the Show Legacy Award.

The article highlights several notable horses bred by the Fordham family that have achieved significant success in the show ring. While specific names are mentioned, the overarching theme isn't about individual wins but rather the consistent production of quality horses that embody the characteristics Bob Sr. initially sought: athleticism, trainability, and a good disposition. These qualities haven’t just translated to success in the arena; they’ve also contributed to the family’s reputation as breeders of reliable and versatile horses suitable for various riders and disciplines.

The AQHA Show Legacy Award is presented at the prestigious AQHA World Championship Show, an event that draws thousands of exhibitors and spectators from around the globe. This recognition provides a platform for the Fordham family to share their story and inspire others within the American Quarter Horse community. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of tradition, dedication, and sportsmanship in maintaining the integrity and vitality of the sport.

The award isn't just a celebration of the past; it’s an investment in the future. By recognizing families like the Fordhams, AQHA reinforces the values that have shaped the American Quarter Horse industry for decades and encourages future generations to embrace those same principles. The Fordham family’s legacy serves as a powerful example of how passion, hard work, and a commitment to excellence can create a lasting impact on a beloved sport. Their story is a testament to the enduring appeal of the American Quarter Horse and the families who dedicate their lives to preserving its heritage.

You can read the original article here: [ https://www.si.com/fannation/rodeo/news/aqha-honor-legacy-fordham-family-2025-show-legacy-award ]