CP Hidden Gem (Rusty)

2023 AQHA Sorrel Gelding 

Nics Black Diamond x Smooth Secrets

Height: 14.1 HH

CP Hidden Gem, known as "Rusty" around the barn, is a striking and steady gelding with a big heart and kind disposition. With his strong, athletic build and solid bone, Rusty is both sturdy and stylish. Confident both in the arena and out on the ranch, he's always ready to step up and give his best. Bred to perform and built to last, this gelding brings together athleticism, cow sense, and a level-headed nature—making him a standout prospect for the show pen, ranch work, or anywhere in between.

By NICS BLACK DIAMOND (2004) AQHA black stallion. LTE of $197,016. The #1 All-Time Leading money earner by NIC IT IN THE BUD,  a $2.4 Million sire: 2009 NRCHA Open Hackamore Champion; 2011 SYVEA Super Cow Horse Champion; 2009 NRCHA Open Stallion Stakes Finalist; 2008 NRBC Open Reining 4th place; 2007 NRHA Open Futurity 4th Place; 2007 NRCHA Open Futurity 6th Place.

1st Dam: Smooth Secrets (2011) AQHA sorrel mare. NCHA earner of $2,500. By SMOOTH AS THE CAT, LTE: $500,038,  NCHA Horse of the Year, NCHA Hall of Fame horse. Sire to performers earning over $30,000,000.

 

Student Rider: Maura Darby

Maura is a fourth year animal science major. She has been riding for most of her life competing in the hunter jumper disciplines and three day eventing before coming to Cal Poly. In recent years she has enjoyed exploring western riding and working with young horses. This will be her second year in the Quarter Horse Enterprise and she is looking forward to learning from this talented group of horses and student riders.