Success has come for Wayne in all facets of equine sport.  It started at an early age and I believe it’s safe to say he’s a ‘lifer’.  It began with rodeo and calf roping and later Quarter horse shows.  In 1963 Wayne started doing Quarter Horse shows, travelling from show to show training and showing in attempts to make the next champion.  Back then a ‘champion’ was the all-around horse that qualified in halter, pleasure and other categories.  It was through that all-around competition that Wayne gravitated to reining.   The Latimers were a family to reckon with as not only was Wayne a successful trainer and showman he also proved that his knowledge ran deep demonstrating his skills and the feel it takes to be a great horseman.  As we are all aware and fortunate enough this weekend to learn from his sons, two very accomplished horseman themselves Duane Latimer, 2 million dollar rider and Dean Latimer, NRHA Professional and NRHA judge. I am honored to be here to present this year’s award to a gentleman whom is firstly a long standing individual within the sport of reining but one that is well rounded in what he’s brought to sport through the horses, the people and of course Reining past, present, and future.