Jordan Williams claims the title, showcasing exceptional skill and versatility. See how other top riders battled for glory in this prestigious contest.
As the National Reined Cowhorse Association (NRCHA) World’s Greatest Horseman competition came to a close yesterday, new champions were crowned.
The 2026 World’s Greatest Horseman title was awarded to Jordan Williams and Jaymes Bond. Jordan Williams was riding Jaymes Bond (breeding Metallic Cat x Shortys Jay Ray), a stunning red roan owned by Bonds Ranch. The pair earned a composite score of 885.5. Williams will take home the famous gold ring that declares the win boldly and $150,000. Both speak to the years of work that happened behind the scenes to earn this accolade.
In second place was Chris C. Dawson riding Zak 34, owned by Melissa Fischer. Their composite score was 881, and they earned a payout of $75,000. Dawson's wife Sarah was another talented competitor with strong showings throughout the event. Third place went to Smooth Outta Style, ridden by Tucker J. Robinson, and owned by Julie Weinhardt and F Velazquez. The duo had a score of 875.5 and earned a $45,000 payout.
The 2026 Youth World’s Greatest Horseman Champion was Cole Hawk and Stylish Boon (Stylish Rey Gay x RS Stars N Boonlight) with a 724 composite score. Stylish Boon is owned by the Hawk Family Trust. Hawk and Stylish Boon earned a 138 in Herd Work, a 143 in Rein Work, a 150.5 in Cow Work, a 144.5 in Steer Stopping, and a 148 in Fence Work to achieve this overall composite score. Hawk took home $6,410 in payout.
The youth field of placements were all close together, with mere half points separating the field. In second place was Reygiddy Ann, ridden by Westin Clearwater and owned by Justabouta Ranch Inc. They scored a 723.5 composite and took home $5,128 in payout.
Third place went to Lookslikelucktome, ridden by Landri Lisac and owned by Timothy and Katherine Miller. They scored a 723 and earned $4,166.5. Fourth place went to Show With Style, ridden by Caden Allen and owned by Ashley Greco. They earned a 722 score and took home $3,525.50.
With these two cowboys, Williams and Hawk leading the charge, there were also many notable cowgirls in the competition. Last year's World's Greatest Horseman winner, Erin Taormino, and horse Hazardouz Material put on a good show but didn’t have a strong enough performance this year for the winner's circle.
The highest scoring cowgirl of the competition was another previous competitor and high score winner, Abbie Phillips. Phillips had a strong 2025 showing and returned this year with another standout performance. Phillips came in 6th place overall, riding Peptos Stylin Time, who is owned by Kelby and Abbie Phillips. The pair scored an 870.5 and earned $14,000.
With these incredible performances from both youth and adult cowboys and cowgirls, it was a stellar week in Ft Worth. The multiple events that comprise the World’s Greatest Horseman Competition ensure that the winners are not only talented in one realm, but true versatile riders and horses, adaptable to many different scenarios related to precise cow work and ranch events.
The thrill of the event will return next year, and we will likely see many repeat competitors.