NCHA News

FORT WORTH, Texas — The National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) is proud to announce Kathy Cardon of Caliente, California, as the recipient of the 2026 Sandy Sokol Secretary of the Year Award. Cardon will be recognized during the 2026 NCHA Convention, held June 19–21 at the South Point Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Based on NCHA membership nominations and a selection committee, this award is presented each year in recognition and remembrance of the late Sandy Sokol, long-time NCHA show secretary. The award recognizes an NCHA-approved secretary who demonstrates exceptional professionalism, dedication, and service to the association and its members.

"I don't know how to put into words what this award means to me," said Cardon. "I get teary just asking myself, what would Sandy think of the job I do? I hope she would be pleased. Sandy Sokol was a kind and wonderful person that our world did not get to keep long enough. She was a great lady."

For more than 23 years, Cardon has been a trusted leader within the cutting horse industry, serving as secretary for more than 1,000 NCHA-approved events. Known for her professionalism, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to exhibitors and producers, she has become a valued resource for secretaries across the country.

For Cardon, the relationships built through the industry have been among the most rewarding parts of her career.

"One of my favorite things about being a show secretary is the people," she said. "We all share a love for horses and the sport of cutting, but it's the people and their stories that make this industry special. I've met so many incredible individuals through this sport, and it's a great big, small world that I feel fortunate to be a part of."

Cardon has played an important role in advancing show management within the industry, assisting with the development and testing of software platforms used by secretaries and producers. In 2025, she also led the creation of the NCHA Secretary Handbook, providing a valuable educational resource for both new and experienced secretaries.

In addition to her work in the show office, Cardon has served on the NCHA Secretaries Committee since 2016 and has devoted countless hours to supporting affiliates, committees, and industry initiatives. Widely respected for her knowledge and mentorship, she is often the first person fellow secretaries call when questions arise.

"The importance of the secretary's role within the NCHA cannot be overstated," said Jay Winborn, Executive Director of the NCHA. "Secretaries are essential to the success of our events, and the Sandy Sokol Secretary of the Year Award recognizes those whose professionalism, dedication, and service exemplify the very best of our sport."

The National Cutting Horse Association congratulates Kathy Cardon on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her many years of service to the sport of cutting.