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Bob Funkhouser Receives C. J. Cronan Sportsmanship Award

C. J. Cronan Sportsmanship Award.jpg

February 23, 2026: Lexington, KY – The American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association (ASHBA) proudly recognized Bob Funkhouser as the 2025 recipient of the C. J. Cronan Sportsmanship Award, presented by Allen Bosworth  at the Major Awards Ceremony during the 2026 ASHBA Annual Convention.

The C. J. Cronan Sportsmanship Award honors individuals who lead with integrity, give selflessly, and place the well-being of the horse and the community above personal recognition. Named in honor of C. J. Cronan, remembered as “Mr. Saddlebred,” the award reflects a legacy of honesty, tradition, and unwavering devotion to the industry.

Bob Funkhouser’s lifelong involvement in the sport embodies those principles. Raised within the Saddlebred community, he developed his horsemanship under respected mentors while building a reputation grounded in sportsmanship and service. He has served six years on the ASHBA Board of Directors, including two terms as President, and contributed to both the World’s Championship Horse Show Advisory Committee and the USEF American Saddlebred Committee.

Beyond leadership roles, Funkhouser has championed numerous initiatives that promote and celebrate the breed, including the ASHBA Trainers’ Equitation Fundraiser, Legends of Saturday Night, the Saddlebred Expo, and the Symphony of Horses. As an announcer and ambassador, he has emceed multiple World’s Grand Champion presentations and showcased the breed in national and international exhibitions.

“Bob represents the spirit of sportsmanship this award was created to honor,” said Smith Lilly, Immediate Past President of ASHBA. “His leadership, integrity, and dedication to the horse have strengthened this community for decades.”

Through service, humility, and steadfast commitment, Bob Funkhouser stands as a deserving recipient of the C. J. Cronan Sportsmanship Award.