This versatile ranch athlete worked his way into the ApHC Hall of Fame. Main Issue has racked up quite a resume in cattle events. Foaled in 1980, the gelding is by Prince Plaudit's Stinger and out of Sue's Issue. Bred by Earl Steinert of Springfield, Missouri, Main Issue is owned by George Anderson and Rachel Locke of Fair Grove, Missouri.

From 1986 to 1998, he achieved numerous awards in heading, heeling, rope race, steer daubing and tie-down roping.

The talented gelding has earned 12 bronze medallions for heading and heeling, judged heading, judged heeling and steer daubing.

He has earned nine registers of merit and was recognized as a superior event horse three times. Throughout his career, the gelding consistently placed as a top 10 year-end finalist. He earned the high-point title for judged heeling in 1990, steer daubing in 1995, judged heading in 1996, and steer daubing again in 1996. He earned a total of 523 performance points and 102 non-pro points and one youth point.

Known at home as "Chicken," the gelding is enjoying his retirement. "At 27 years old, we feel he's earned the right to eat grain, alfalfa and grow old and fat," says George's wife, Kathy. His unflappable character and personality have made him a favorite member of the family, and he'll be introducing the Andersons' grandsons to the pleasure of riding this year.

"Chicken has a wonderful disposition," Kathy says. "When you really put him in a spot where he needs to really go, he can handle it. He's so versatile it doesn't make a difference if it's someone who knows what they're doing or a child learning to ride-he accommodates you."