BASO 2025 - Our Judges

Born and raised in Pennsylvania, I grew up riding hunters. After graduating from The Ohio State University Equine program, I moved to North Texas, where I attained judges' cards with APHA, ApHC, AQHA Level 1, NSBA, NCHA, and PtHA. There, I became immersed in the horse show community—judging and showing. After many years in Texas, I moved back to Pennsylvania and have a farm near Gettysburg. I hope to show in ranch competition this summer.

Steve Lackey has been an AQHA judge for 44 years and has been training and showing horses for over 50 years. He also holds judges cards with NSBA, APHA, PHBA, and ApHC and has judged more than 600 shows. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, Steve is passionate about doing what he loves — and firmly believes that if you're not having fun, you shouldn't be doing it.

Pat Smith lives in Sugar Hill, Georgia, with her husband, Ike. She has been a judge for over 30 years. She has been active in the horse industry since her teens—showing, training, and working with Quarter Horse farms. She holds judges’ cards with IBHA, APHA, PtHA, ApHC, and NSBA. She has judged numerous prestigious events including IBHA, ApHC, PtHA, and APHA shows. She says, “I am very excited to judge your show and hope everyone has a safe and great event.”