The 2024 Gold Buckle Futurities showcased top-tier rope horse genetics, with both stallions and breeders making a significant impact. Thanks to the support of Valley Equine Reproduction, we’re recognizing the top five Elite Stallions and the top five Elite Breeders who played a key role in last year’s performers.
Here’s a look at the those who led the way in earnings:
Top 5 Elite Stallions of 2024
* Results based solely on earnings from the Elite Stallions sidepot
Woody Be Tuff’s offspring led the earnings list, with CR Tuff Pep bringing in the bulk of the total at $37,000. Other earners included CR Tuff King ($9,000), Celtic Tuff ($4,000), and CR Better Be Tuff ($2,100). His influence continues to be seen across top roping events, consistently producing competitive and reliable horses.
Coming in just behind the leader, CD Diamond’s offspring made a strong showing. SJR Diamond Bond topped his list with $19,000, followed by SJR Diamond Ombre and SJR Diamond Billy, each earning $14,000. SJR Diamond Salsa rounded out the group with $5,000. The consistency across multiple horses speaks to the stallion’s impact in the rope horse futurity scene.
Kit Kat Sugar’s name continues to be brought to the winner’s circle in the rope horse scene. His highest earner at Gold Buckle Futurities in 2024 was Aldo The Apache with $37,400, followed by Conrey Kitty, who brought in $10,000.
Metallic Cat remains a household name, with his offspring proving their versatility. Tizz led his group with $21,000 in earnings, followed by Metallic Watch ($9,000), Now Lets Talk Money ($5,700), and GBAR Metallic Rey ($3,000).
5. Hickory Holly Time – $38,500
Finishing in the top five is Hickory Holly Time, a well-established name in the rope horse industry. SLR Swinging Hickory led the charge of his offspring with $20,000, followed by DF Cols Holly Time ($7,000) and DT Hickory Blu Steel ($5,625).
These results reflect the strength of breeding programs that continue to shape the future of rope horse competitions. The success of these stallions in the Elite Stallions sidepot reinforces their value in producing high-caliber horses for the next generation of ropers.
Top 5 Breeders of 2024
* Results based solely on earnings from the Elite Breeders sidepot
1. Center Ranch – $37,750
Center Ranch claimed the top spot with multiple standout performers, led by CR Tuff Pep, who earned $18,000. CR Tuff King followed behind with $14,375, while CR Duallys Tuff added $5,375 to the total. Their program has produced roping prospects that consistently prove themselves in competition.
San Juan Ranch saw success across multiple horses, with SJR Diamond Ombre and SJR Diamond Bond each earning $9,000. SJR Stylish Believer contributed $5,375, followed by SJR Bet He Sparks ($5,000) and Queen of Sparkles ($4,375). Their depth in talent speaks to a strong breeding program built for long-term success, powered by their stallion lineup.
3. Dixon Flowers Quarter Horses – $30,375
Dixon Flowers Quarter Horses made a significant impact, led by DF Probablytheticket, who earned $17,875. DF Bet Hesa Legend ($7,500) and DF Cols Holly Time ($5,000) also contributed to the breeder’s strong showing in this year’s futurities. Stay on the lookout for more horses sporting the DF brand, they continue to produce year after year.
4. The Over Forty Ranch – $29,375
Producing consistent earners, The Over Forty Ranch saw Bet On Yer Brother bring in $16,875, while Bettin On My Brother added $12,500. Their program continues to develop competitive rope horses that perform under pressure, combining strong genetics with a foundation that prepares horses to excel in the futurity realm.
Rounding out the top five, Flag Ranch’s Relentless PYC earned $9,000, while Lunchbox secured $7,500. Under the direction of Larry Rice, Flag Ranch has mastered the running-bred x cow horse cross, producing versatile, high-performing rope horses that excel in speed, handle, and natural talent. Their ability to consistently turn out futurity earners solidifies their place among the industry’s top breeders.
These stallions and breeders are shaping the future of rope horse competition, proving that a strong foundation in genetics and training makes all the difference in the arena. Their programs continue to set the standard for success in the industry – stay tuned for our full lineup of the enrolled 2025 Elite Stallions and Breeders.
The Gold Buckle Futurities has proven to be the highest return on investment for stallion owners and breeders alike, offering unparalleled opportunities for success in the rope horse industry. With significant earnings up for grabs and the potential for long-term recognition, the event provides a valuable platform for showcasing breeding programs and talented horses. For owners and breeders, participating in the Gold Buckle Futurities isn’t just a competition—it’s a strategic investment in the future of their horses and their breeding programs.
