Brian has made a significant impact on our sport from almost every angle—announcer, producer, manager, organizer, problem solver and mentor in the hunter, jumper and reining industries. He has been involved with major competitions across the globe including Wellington International, League of Nations, FEI World Equestrian Games, Global Champions Tour and National Reining Breeders Classic, to name a few.
What makes Brian especially deserving of this recognition is his commitment to the people of our sport. He is known for his work ethic, his willingness to tackle any challenge and his ability to make exhibitors, staff, sponsors and spectators feel valued. Whether he is behind a microphone, managing an event, mentoring others, or developing new opportunities for competitors, he consistently puts the success of the horse community first.
Brian goes above and beyond the call of duty in his professional endeavors, yet ALWAYS somehow puts his family, friends and community first. He is always first to lend a helping hand to someone in need.
-Martha Jensen Lookabill
Brian is hands down one of the best show managers in the country. His shows are among our favorites throughout the year from not only a trainer perspective, but also an owner, rider and horse point of view as well.
When we show up as a barn to a New Directions show, we know that we’re going to not only get top quality care for our horses, but we will also have fantastic judges, office staff, jump crew, announcers, course designers—the list goes on and on.
Most importantly, you can tell as an exhibitor that Brian Lookabill cares about providing a fantastic experience for all involved. From the awards for riders, horses, grooms and trainers to spectacular exhibitors parties to watch the important classes, Brian’s shows are top notch from start to finish.
We cannot say enough good things about the way Brian manages his shows, and we’re already excited for next year! Every time we get to Sunday during one of Brian’s shows, everyone is sad that it’s over, and that is a direct testament to the job that he and his staff do throughout the week.
-Michael Newman & Lindsey Ayres, Newman Equestrian trainers
I’ve had the benefit and the honor of working with Brian for many years in both the hunter-jumper and reining disciplines. It goes without saying that he raises the bar of every event he does for both disciplines. Whether it’s the qualifying days or the final rounds, as an announcer, Brian makes it feel special. In the reining world, from the World Equestrian Games, NRHA Futurity and Derby and the National Reiners Breeders Classic (NRBC), Brian’s voice is a valued part of our history, bringing a special level of appreciation for each event.
For over 20 years, Brian has been the voice of the NRBC, securing our signature style and creating the excitement that is due with record-breaking scores from great horses and riders. He’s also an integral part of management and production of each of our special events during the show, such as tabulating scores with an eye on efficiency and verification. Presenting awards is a massive presentation with five levels of winners, but somehow Brian can make it work and help us enjoy the wins. He also produces the press conferences and assists in the work that goes into the clips created for the big screen; Brian often has the music coordinated for the riders in the finals. He always goes beyond expectations. Brian Lookabill has made a difference in our sport. I wouldn’t want to do it without him.
As I said in the beginning, it has been an honor and a privilege to work with Brian and to know him as my friend.
–Colleen McQuay, USHJA Founding Board Member, USEF National Hunter Committee
It’s hard to put into words just how much Brian means to me, both as a friend and as someone who has made a lasting impact on the National Western Stock Show Horse Show during his decades of involvement. One of my favorite things about Brian is that when he walks into the building, he doesn’t just show up to do a job, he becomes part of the show. He cares deeply about the production, the people, the exhibitors, the horses and the experience delivered. He gives absolutely everything he has and is always looking for ways to elevate the event. Brian is one of the most driven, hardworking and genuinely passionate people I know. His commitment is contagious and his mentorship is something I treasure. I am incredibly fortunate to call Brian my friend. He is one of the most iconic voices in the equine industry.
-Kendra McConnell, Director of Horse Show Operations, National Western Stock Show
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