Whitney & Greg Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award
Established in 2000, this award is presented to a National Youth Cutting Horse Association member who exemplifies the qualities of sportsmanship, responsibility and respect for fellow competitors.
The annual award was established in honor of NYCHA member, Whitney Welch, daughter of Greg and Pax Welch. The award is presented at the NYCHA Awards Banquet during the NCHA Derby each summer. Whitney and three of her friends were killed on December 19, 1998, the result of an encounter with a drunk driver. It was a devastating loss to all who knew and loved her. Whitney exemplified the true meaning of sportsmanship; she was a quiet girl, always friendly, courteous and respectful to others. Whitney was gracious in winning as well as losing.
Whitney’s father, former National Cutting Horse Association President, Greg Welch, passed away on July 4, 2004 after a brief illness. Greg was a much loved supporter of young cutters and served as a positive force in the lives of many youth members. Prior to his death, he presented the Whitney Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award during the NYCHA Awards Banquet each summer. After his passing, Greg’s name was added to the sportsmanship award in honor of his dedication to children.
To be eligible for this award, the nominee must be a member of NYCHA, must be nominated by a NCHA Affiliate and the nomination must be submitted by a NCHA Affiliate Secretary. Each affiliate may determine their own process for selecting a nominee. Each Affiliate may nominate one youth member each year for this prestigious award.
Nomination forms must be submitted by June 1 each year to:
Whitney & Greg Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award Committee
3947 FM 1806
Nocona, TX 76255Questions regarding the award can be directed to:
Patti Willoughby, Chairperson, (940) 894-2120.
Whitney & Greg set an example, let’s keep it alive in their name!
Whitney & Greg Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award recipients
2008 - Cooper Cogdell, Tulia, Texas
2007 - Elizabeth Brumbaugh, Weatherford, Texas
2006 - Lindsey Weander, Valentine, Nebraska
2005 - Samantha Biller, Tulare, California
2004 - Denver Jo Williamson, Archer City, Texas
Whitney Welch Memorial Sportsmanship Award recipients
2003 - Mica Motes, Weatherford, Texas
2002 - Keri Garrison, Ridgeland, Mississippi
2001 - Ty Chambers, Wichita Falls, Texas
2000 - Mandy Williams, Grantsville, Utah
Have questions about NYCHA?
Email your questions and comments to the NYCHA Youth Director at
youth@nchacutting.com
