Amateur Presidents Message

Front Page

August 2018

Greetings PHBA Amateurs Members

It is a midway point in the Amateur Board year and therefore it is time to take a moment and reflect on the last six months particularly in light of the completion of our 2018 Palomino World Show.  Our amateurs were well represented across all divisions at the world show.   For those that attended, participated or watched on line, we hope you enjoyed yourself.  The world show, like the convention provides a great opportunity to meet one another, support one another and share ideas. {MORE}

Amateur Presidents Message

Dear Fellow PHBA friends and family,

I’m thrilled to introduce myself—Susie Arbo—as the Amateur President of the Palomino Horse Breeders of America! As a longtime member and passionate advocate for PHBA, I’m honored to be in this role and excited to work alongside some great people!

My husband, Merle, and I live on a ranch outside of Kingsville, MO, where we own a private mental health group counseling practice and operate a 21-stall show barn. Some of you may know Merle, but don’t hold that against me! (That was a joke, just in case he is reading this!) He sometimes stands in the center of the pen. He is the biggest reason I started showing PHBA. I went to my first show in Kingman, Kansas, with my quarter horse as there were AQHA classes also. I was so excited to learn about the parade class, I entered my horse, Decka, in it, only to learn that it was for PHBA horses only! Everyone was so friendly there and it really was like a horse show family. Not long afterward that show, Merle found me a palomino horse to buy and the rest, as they say, is history. For the last 15 years I have had the pleasure of showing the most amazing palomino and palomino bred equine athletes.  

Besides being a mental health counselor, my background includes 13 years in the NFL as a cheerleader, where I also had the unique opportunity to ride the team’s mascot horse. From that experience, I learned firsthand that education, sportsmanship, and camaraderie are key to a thriving association. My goal is to ensure every amateur member feels supported, encouraged, and excited to be part of PHBA.

Since 2020, I’ve also had the privilege of co-hosting Better Horses, a TV show that airs weekly on RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. This role has given me the chance to experience every aspect of the equine world, meet some incredible people and horses, and learn so much along the way. I’d love to connect and hear what YOU are up to with your equine partner—so don’t hesitate to reach out!

In closing, on behalf of the Amateur board, we appreciate you taking the time to support our amazing PHBA breed! If at any time you have questions or want to be involved with the amateur association please let us know, we are always wanting positive, hardworking folks to join our team! 

Here’s to an amazing year ahead in 2026—let’s make it the best one yet!

Sincerely,
Susie