Special gifts from the George and Carol Collins Collection are a highlight of the auction November 17-21.

Each year, an online auction raises money for the AQHA Professional Horsemen's Crisis Fund.

This year, the auction received an unexpected gift through the donations of many saddles and tack pieces donated by George and Carol Collins of North Carolina.

“My former client Carol Collins of North Carolina – a nice, nice lady – has retired from showing,” says AQHA steward Orin Barnes of Canyon, Texas. “She shipped me some of her tack and wants to donate it to the Crisis Fund.”
            Carol sent four western saddles, three English saddles, mecates, bosals, romals and many bits and bridles. Most pieces have storage bags. All the items will be noted in the sale listing as coming from the George and Carol Collins Collection.

            “The Crisis Fund has helped so many trainers when they needed it,” Orin says. “I would encourage trainers who are currently working to think about donating now as an investment in their futures. You don't know when an accident is going to happen.”

            Professional Horse Services will again host the online auction November 17-20 at https://prohorseservices.com.

AQHA manager of Professional Horsemen and Team Wrangler. “The Professional Horsemen's Crisis Fund has been able to help many Professional Horsemen in emergencies, and we need to keep the fund financially strong.”

            The AQHA Professional Horsemen's Crisis Fund supports AQHA Professional Horsemen in times of unexpected crisis, such as natural disasters, illness or injury.

            The 2018 auction raised $24,555, with an additional $4,016 raised through donations at the Nutrena Ride the Pattern clinics that were matched by Nutrena. In all, the Crisis Fund received nearly $30,000.

            “That amount broke a record, and we'd like to do it again this year,” Karen says.

            In addition to the tack from the George and Carol Collins Collection, the auction will include items such as breedings, vacations, gift baskets and baked goods.

            “There's something in our auction for every pocketbook,” Karen says. “You can choose holiday gifts with the knowledge that you're helping a good cause while you shop.”