The time has come yet again for the American Quarter Horse Youth World Cup which will be held this year in Kreuth, Germany from July 21 through July 29. With 16 countries competing for the gold, this event not only promotes the highest levels of equestrian competition but also seeks to develop the leadership skills of the AQHYA members worldwide.

The teams are provided with an amazing opportunity to associate with and learn from the different cultures our world has to offer.  The teams will have the opportunity to put their skills to the test during these days of both practice and competition. GoHorseShow.com will spotlight each member of Team USA, hoping that the rest of the industry will become familiar with these talented individuals and be able offer all the support needed in order to help them compete to the best of their ability.

The first member of Team USA that we will be spotlighting is seventeen-year-old Mark Mowbray of Rhodesdale, Maryland. Mark has been riding horses since he was five and was just elected President of AQHYA! Congratulations Mark! Mark competes in western pleasure, western horsemanship, and halter and trains with Jamie Murrow and Nate Whaley of Watha, North Carolina. Mark also enjoys other activities including basketball, lacrosse and attending church.

What school do you attend and what grade are you in?

St. Thomas More, and I will be a Senior next fall.

What are your plans for next year?

To graduate high school, and find a great school where I can ride.

Have you traveled to Europe before? If so, when, where and why?

I have not.

What are your equine accomplishments?

Two time Congress Top Ten, and Finalist at the Built Ford Tough Youth World Show.

Why do you think you got chosen for the Youth World Cup team?

While being honored to be chosen, I guess it has a lot to do with my foundation. I have been raised to be active in leadership and community service since I was five years old.

What are you most looking forward to during the YWC?

The entire adventure. The competition and the interaction with teams from across the world.

What are you least looking forward to during the YWC?

That my parents will not be able to enjoy it with me.

What were your feelings when you found out you made the YWC team?

It was like a dream come true. I was so happy, and excited. I could barely keep my emotions in.

If you were to create a playlist for your trip to Germany, what would your top three song choices be?

Fly Over States - Jason Aldean
Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue - Toby Keith
Where Have I Been All My Life - George Strait

If you could ride any horse alive or dead, what horse would it be?

Vital Signs Are Good

Tell me one thing about yourself that most people don't know?

I'm 5'7 and I can dunk a basketball.

What is a unique or quirky habit you have?

I like to measure my horse feed, so that way I can make sure my feeding program stays consistent.

If you had to chose one word to describe yourself, what would it be and why?

Committed, I always commit to the task at hand.

If you had to choose your career right this minute, what would you choose?

A Vet.

Who is your role model in the horse world and what is it about this person that makes you choose them?

The late Shay Murphy. She was a leader in the quarter horse industry in the state of Maryland. She raised her daughters up in the same field. She promoted the American Quarter Horse everywhere she went. Shay always had something positive to say to young riders like me. Even while battling cancer, she continued to encourage youth to do their best and dream their dream. She was always tough, committed, and courageous.