Raised on a cattle ranch in Skull Valley, AZ, Two-time World Champion Reining horse trainer Ben Balow always knew his life would include horses. What he did not know at a young age, is that horses would form his career and that he would become one of the most highly regarded non-pro trainer and NRHA judge in the Western United States. As a young man, Ben knew he needed knowledge if he were to make
his dreams reality, so he left Skull Valley for a time, and surrounded himself with Top trainers of the time such as: Mike Drennan, Brett Stone, Mike Kevil and NRHA Hall of Famers Charlie Smith and Bill Horn. Each of these men left an impression on Ben and helped shape the trainer and rider he is today. Ben opened his own training facility in Skull Valley, Arizona in 1990 aptly named Ben Balow Training Stables. Some of Ben’s esteemed accomplishments include winning The NRHA Reserve world champion Limited open title in 1989 riding Colonel Rosie, winning The NRHA Reserve World Champion Intermediate Open in 1999 riding Hollywood Surprise. Most recently Ben won The 2012 NRHA NAAC Reserve World Champion Intermediate Open riding Hollywood Downtown. As an NRHA Judge Ben has had the privilege of judging some of the most illustrious NRHA events in our industry. Ben has judged the NRBC, The NRHA Derby multiple times, The NRHA Cowtown Classic, The NRHA European Futurity, The Carolina Classic and numerous Affiliate Championship shows throughout the United States and abroad. Ben continues to compete and coach non-pros and has just created his own line of working tack designed for the rigors of daily use by trainers and horse enthusiasts alike. With his “don’t quit” attitude and the NRHA stronger than ever, the future looks bright for this Arizona native who still proudly calls Skull Valley home.
