The American Horse Council highlights Fairplay, Colorado’s iconic Burro Days, featuring an interview with special events coordinator Kelsey Spryers about the history of pack burro racing, how the event has grown into a major small‑town festival, and the unique personalities and challenges of racing donkeys at altitude. Julie and Emily also explain why the 2026 midterm elections matter to the horse industry, outlining key federal issues the AHC is working on—from the Farm Bill and rural veterinary shortages to guest‑worker access, tax policy, disease preparedness, and public land/trail access—and share practical ways horse people can engage their elected officials and make their voices heard.
HORSES IN THE MORNING Episode 4031 –Show Notes and Links:
- Your Hosts: Julie Broadway (President) and Emily Stearns (Health, Welfare, and Regulatory Affairs Liaison) of the American Horse Council
- Sponsors: Absorbine and Pyranha Fly Spray
- Subscribe to the American Horse Council Podcast – Search American Horse Council Podcast on your podcast player.
- Guest: Kelsey Spryers with Burro Race | Burro Days
- Follow the American Horse Council on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter)
Time Stamps:
06:00 – Kelsey with Burro Race | Burro Days
39:10 – Legislative Update
Episode 12: Trail Riding and the Great Outdoors
Shownotes Spring has sprung and we’re ready to hit the trails! Are you? Heidi Melocco joins Julie and Megan to talk about Horse Trails of America as we talk about how horse enthusiasts are joining together to help grow a network of trail riding information with a...
Episode 11: What is Equine Assisted Learning?
Shownotes Julie and Megan step into the transformative world of equine-assisted learning. In this episode, we delve into what equine-assisted learning is all about, and how it can profoundly impact personal growth and development. Join us as we uncover the unique bond...
Episode 10: For the USEF, the Future is Now
Shownotes The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Board President Tom O’Mara joins Julie and Megan to discuss a variety of topics including the 2024 USEF Annual Meeting, social licensing and the future for equestrian sport in the United States. As Board...
Episode 8: Horses and Youth: The Impact the Horse has on Authentic Leadership Development
Shownotes Think about it: If you grew up with horses, how do you think they influenced your life today? Julie and Megan talk with PhD candidate Caitlin Lunzmann, who is currently studying at the University of Florida and looking at that very question. Her thesis...
Episode 7: Making Sure the Horse Always Wins
Shownotes Is it possible to be simultaneously passionate about winning a competition and the welfare of the horse? This is the question Adam Snow and Dr. Shelley Onderdonk ask in their latest book published by Trafalgar Square, and the question Julie and Megan are...
Episode 6: Can We Solve the Veterinarian Shortage Problem?
Shownotes According to a 2019 American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Equine Economic Survey Report, most equine veterinarians knew they wanted to be a vet before the age of 10. So many choose this career path because of a calling they felt, and a passion...
Episode 5: Every Horse Counts!
Shownotes In recent months, several surveys have been circulated regarding the U.S. horse industry. The American Horse Council’s Equine Economic Impact Survey is one that has been active since April and will be wrapping up September 29. This survey, done once every...
Episode 4: Environmentally Sustainable with Horses
Shownotes Horse owners are some of the biggest supporters of the environment. They understand the importance of green space, access to fresh water and mild temperatures to ride. Julie and Megan speak with two Colorado State University students who presented their...
Episode 3: Helping Horses in Need
Shownotes In this episode, Julie and Megan speak with three women who are working to help horse owners and horse enthusiasts help horses in need. Brittney Vallot highlights the amazing work that Days End Farm Horse Rescue and the Maryland Equine Transportation Service...
Episode 2: Youth Are The Future
Shownotes The second episode of the American Horse Council edition of Horses in the Morning shines a spotlight on the youth of the horse industry. Julie and Megan speak with the president of the U.S. Pony Clubs, Jennifer Sweet, and the Executive Director of Amplify...