The Business of Horses with Solo Select

How to get Involved with AQHA

Melanie Smith recaps the 2026 AQHA Convention, explaining how AQHA is governed, how committees and directors work, and how rule changes are proposed and voted on.
She encourages members to get involved, outlines practical steps (committee applications and proposal deadlines), and explains why attending the convention matters for influencing policy.

The Business of Horses - AQHA 2-Year-Rule Discussion

The AQHA 2-Year-Old Rule has shaped breeding, marketing, and futurity timelines for decades — but is it time for a serious conversation about change? In this episode of The Business of Horses, Melanie Smith sits down with industry leaders Tricia Aldridge, Carol Rose, and Brooke Wharton for a candid and forward-thinking discussion about how the AQHA 2-Year-Rule impacts stallion owners, mare owners, breeders, futurity programs, and the long-term soundness of the modern Quarter Horse. Together, they break down:• The intent behind the rule• How it affects the industry today• The economic ripple effects across programs• What reform could mean for the future of the industry This is not surface-level commentary. It is a real, informed conversation from women who are actively shaping the direction of the industry. If you care about the future of the American Quarter Horse and the sustainability of our programs, this is a conversation you will not want to miss. To find out more about how you can get involved or find out information on the AQHA Convention, click here: https://www.soloselecthorses.com/post/the-aqha-two-year-rule-how-it-works-the-impact-and-your-role

Breeding 101 - Episode 2 - Breeding with intention

“𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘄𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻—𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗼𝘁?”
After our first episode focused on the logistics side of Breeding 101, Melanie Smith returns—this time from a more consultative perspective—to dive into how to truly build your breeding plan.
In this episode, she breaks down how to structure your program, define your goals, and identify the most effective paths to achieve them—whether you’re breeding to compete, to sell, or to create long-term genetic value.
🎧 Find the episode now on any of your favorite podcast platforms.

Breeding Logistics 101: Stallion Contracts, Semen Shipping , Mare Prep, ICSI process and Foals Management

In the latest Solo Select Podcast, Melanie Smith pulls back the curtain on what modern breeding really looks like, answering the questions breeders ask every day… and the ones they usually don’t think to ask until it’s too late.
Drawing from decades of hands-on experience, Melanie walks listeners through the full scope of Breeding Logistics 101 — from the big-picture foundation to the smallest details that quietly make or break a season.
Listen to the full episode now and let Melanie Smith guide you through Breeding Logistics 101 — from first-time breeders to seasoned programs looking to sharpen their edge.

Inside Solo Select: Tarleton State Q&A on Building an Empire

Melanie Smith of Solo Select Horses and team member Hayden Dixon host Tarleton State students for a candid Q&A covering how Solo Select grew, the importance of building the right team, branding and marketing, and practical career advice for entering the equine and reproduction industries.The episode explores internships, hands-on training, facility management, international breeding and export challenges, risk-taking and leadership lessons, plus tips on starting a sustainable equine business and building a media-driven brand.

Fastrack: Cambiando la Compra/Venta de los Caballos Quarto de Milla de Carreras - es

El mundo de las carreras de Quarto de Milla se mueve rápido y Fastrack Sale Company fue creado para igualar esa velocidad. Diseñado para complementar el modelo tradicional de ventas, Fastrack hace que la compra y venta de caballos de carreras sea más accesible, más transparente y menos estresante tanto para las personas como para los caballos. Esta plataforma moderna conecta compradores y vendedores en todo el mundo, ofreciendo un mercado digital de alto nivel donde el pedigree, "performance" y la preparación se unen. Aquí te contamos cómo funciona y quién está detrás.
Cómo Funciona
La primera Venta Fastrack se llevará a cabo el 14 de diciembre de 8:00 AM a 5:00 PM CST en bid.fastracksales.com o a través de la aplicación Fastrack, disponible para dispositivos Apple y Android. Fastrack planea realizar una variedad de subastas durante el año, incluyendo Flash Sales, Dispersal Sales y ventas bimensuales diseñadas para mantener el mercado activo durante todo el año. Al llenar el vacío que dejan los calendarios tradicionales de ventas, especialmente durante la primavera cuando los vendedores suelen tener opciones limitadas, Fastrack ofrece una vía constante y moderna para que caballos de alta calidad lleguen a una audiencia global.
Los Fundadores de Fastrack
Fastrack Sale Company fue fundada por Matt Witman, Butch Wise, Ty Smith y Melanie Smith, un equipo de veteranos de la industria cuya experiencia combinada abarca todos los rincones del mundo del caballo de carreras y de "performance". Juntos representan décadas de liderazgo, innovación y resultados.
Matt Witman ha pasado más de 30 años en la industria, administrando y promocionando algunos de los programas de cría y venta más respetados del país (USA). Su enfoque en la organización, precisión y profesionalismo establece el estándar de calidad de cada venta Fastrack.
Butch Wise aporta un nivel incomparable de conocimiento en el mundo de las carreras, habiendo construido una carrera identificando genética de élite y desarrollando caballos y programas reproductivos de primer nivel. Su ojo para el talento y su reputación de integridad son pilares fundamentales del éxito y de la credibilidad de Fastrack.
Ty Smith aporta toda una vida de experiencia práctica, habiendo comprado y vendido algunos de los caballos más destacados en la historia de las subastas de caballos de "performance". Ha ayudado a moldear algunas de las operaciones más progresistas de la industria, combinando pericia práctica con una visión moderna del mercado.
Melanie Smith es ampliamente reconocida por transformar la manera en que los caballos se comercializan en línea. Su innovación y compromiso con la presentación de alta calidad han redefinido los estándares de las subastas digitales en múltiples disciplinas. Ella aporta dirección estratégica, visión de marca y el liderazgo que une tradición con tecnología.
Juntos, este equipo creó Fastrack para elevar el nivel de transparencia, accesibilidad y profesionalismo en las ventas de caballos Quarto de Milla de Carreras y más allá.
Una Forma Más Inteligente de Vender
Vender a través de Fastrack comienza con simplicidad y estructura. Cada caballo se registra en línea mediante un formulario interactivo. A partir de ahí, el vendedor elige un agente aprobado, alguien confiable, experimentado y práctico. Los agentes aprobados actualmente incluyen Roger Daly, Marty Powers, Marc Jungers, Robicheaux Ranch, RJ Ranch y Solo Select. Los agentes deben ser aprobados, y los interesados pueden contactar a Butch Wise.
Los agentes se encargan de todo: fotos, videos, radiografías y certificados veterinarios, asegurando que cada caballo esté representado con exactitud. Fastrack promociona la venta en su conjunto, mientras que cada agente maneja el marketing individual, las consultas y las demostraciones privadas. Una vez que la venta cierra, Fastrack verifica el pago antes de que el caballo sea recogido, garantizando una transacción segura y sin contratiempos.
Una Mejor Manera de Comprar
Para los compradores, Fastrack lleva la venta directamente a ellos, sin que importe en qué parte del mundo estén. El registro es rápido e incluye verificación de tarjeta de crédito para identificación. Los compradores pueden descargar la aplicación Fastrack o navegar en el sitio web para acceder a un catálogo digital moderno con fotos profesionales, videos, pedigríes y acceso abierto a radiografías e informes veterinarios a través de un enlace público al repositorio.
Por Qué Funciona
Fastrack une tradición y tecnología. Mantiene la confianza y responsabilidad de las ventas presenciales, con agentes, inspecciones y profesionalismo, mientras introduce un sistema global más ágil y accesible. Los caballos permanecen cómodos y seguros mientras alcanzan una audiencia mucho más amplia, y los compradores pueden participar desde cualquier parte del mundo. Con un equipo que ha formado parte de momentos históricos tanto en subastas presenciales como online, Fastrack combina credibilidad con innovación para redefinir lo posible en esta industria.
El Futuro de las Ventas de Caballos
Fastrack Sale Company es más que una plataforma; es un movimiento hacia una mejor manera de hacer negocios. Ya sea que estés vendiendo tu próximo caballo Quarto de Milla de Carrera o comprando uno, Fastrack fue creado para hacer el proceso más rápido, sencillo y transparente para todos.
Tu hogar para la velocidad.
Tu conexión con el futuro de las carreras.
Fastrack.
Regístrate para recibir actualizaciones: www.fastracksales.com
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Fastrack: Changing the Way Racehorses are Bought and Sold

The world of Quarter Horse racing moves fast—and Fastrack Sale Company was built to match that speed. Designed to complement the traditional sale barn, Fastrack makes buying and selling Racing Quarter Horses more accessible, more transparent, and less stressful for both the people and the horses involved. This modern platform connects buyers and sellers from around the world, offering a premium online marketplace where pedigrees, performance, and preparation come together. Here’s how it all works—and who’s behind it!
 
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗜𝘁 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀
The first Fastrack Sale will be held on December 14th from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST at bid.fastracksales.com or through the Fastrack app, available for both Apple and Android devices. Fastrack plans to host a variety of auctions throughout the year, including Flash Sales, Dispersal Sales, and bi-monthly sales designed to keep the marketplace active year-round. By bridging the gap left by traditional sale schedules—particularly during the spring months when sellers often have limited options—Fastrack provides a consistent, modern outlet for high-quality horses to reach a worldwide audience.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁t𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸
Fastrack Sale Company was founded by Matt Witman, Butch Wise, Ty Smith, and Melanie Smith—a team of industry veterans whose combined experience spans every corner of the performance and racing horse business. Together, they represent decades of leadership, innovation, and results. Matt Witman has spent more than 30 years in the horse industry, managing and marketing some of the most respected breeding and sales programs in the country. His focus on organization, precision, and professionalism helps set the quality standard for every Fastrack sale. Butch Wise brings an unmatched depth of knowledge in the racing world, having built a career identifying elite genetics and developing world-class racehorses and breeding programs. His eye for talent and reputation for integrity are central to Fastrack’s credibility and success. Ty Smith brings a lifetime of hands-on experience to Fast Track, having bought and sold some of the most notable horses in performance horse auction history. He’s helped shape some of the most progressive operations in the industry, combining practical expertise with a forward-looking vision for modern sales. Melanie Smith is widely recognized for transforming how horses are marketed online. Her innovation and commitment to quality presentation have redefined expectations for digital auctions across multiple disciplines. She brings strategic direction, branding insight, and the leadership that connects tradition with technology. Together, this team built Fastrack to raise the bar for transparency, accessibility, and professionalism in Quarter Horse racing sales—and beyond.
𝗔 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗹
Selling through Fastrack starts with simplicity and structure. Each horse is entered online in an interactive form. From there, the seller chooses an approved agent—someone trusted, experienced, and hands-on. Current approved agents include Roger Daly, Marty Powers, Marc Jungers, Robicheaux Ranch, RJ Ranch and Solo Select. Agents must be approved, and interested parties should contact Butch Wise. Agents manage everything from photos and videos to radiographs and veterinary statements, ensuring each horse is accurately represented. Fastrack advertises the sale as a whole, while each agent handles individual marketing, inquiries, and private showings. When the sale closes, Fastrack verifies payment before any horse is released for pickup, ensuring a smooth, secure transaction every time.
𝗔 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝘂𝘆
For buyers, Fastrack brings the sale to them - anywhere in the world. Registration is quick and includes credit card verification for identification. Buyers can download the Fastrack app or browse through the website to access a modern digital catalog featuring professional photos, videos, pedigrees, and open access to radiographs and veterinary findings through a public repository link. securely.
𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗜𝘁 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀
Fastrack bridges tradition and technology. It keeps the trust and accountability of in-person sales—agents, inspections, professionalism—while introducing a streamlined, global system built for access and efficiency. Horses stay comfortable and safe while reaching a far wider audience, and buyers can participate from anywhere in the world. With a team that’s been part of record-breaking moments in both live and online auctions, Fastrack combines credibility with innovation to redefine what’s possible in the horse sale industry.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀
Fastrack Sale Company is more than a platform—it’s a movement toward a better way of doing business. Whether you’re selling your next runner or buying one, Fastrack was built to make the process faster, simpler, and more transparent for everyone involved.
Your home for speed.
Your connection to the future of racing.
𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗸.
Sign up for updates: www.fastracksales.com

Feeding Your Horse To It's Genetic Potential : The Crucial Role Of Nutrition With Melanie Smith and Dr. James Lattimer

In this Episode of The Business Of Horses, Solo Select's very own Melanie Smith sits down with  ADM Animal Nutrition's Dr. James Lattimer to discuss what it takes to feed your horse to its genetic potential. Whether you are feeding with the goal of walking your horse into the sale ring as a yearling, or feeding to make your next champion - knowing how to feed will set your program up from success. Where it starts? At conception.
 
Solo Select announced our partnership with ADM Animal Nutrition in 2024, but their feed, including Gro Strong Mineral, has been a crucial part in our feeding program for years. ADM has fueled 'The Very Best' for years, from our resident mares, stallions and every foal born here. A huge part of the success we have experienced is because of the foundation a solid feeding program lays. Dr. James Lattimer has guided us for years, answering our questions and the questions of our clients - helping breeders and owners to feed their horses to the genetic potential within.
 
You can reach out to ADM Animal Nutrition's Dr James Lattimer for any questions you have about ADM, Gro Strong Mineral, or any other nutrition questions you may have at James.Lattimer@adm.com
 
www.soloselecthorses.com | www.admequine.com

The Rise of the Rope Horse Industry: Insights and Evolution from the Old West Futurity

Join us as we dive into a exciting discussion on the incredible growth of the rope horse industry. In this episode, key figures like Trevor Brazile, Rhen Richard, Chelsea Shaffer and Lari Dee Guy share their personal journeys, reflecting on pivotal moments and the industry's transformation since 2017.
Discover how the infrastructure of the team roping industry supports a variety of horses and why it stands apart from other equestrian disciplines. You'll hear anecdotes about significant purchases, the importance of horsemanship, and the impact of judging on training and selling horses.
Learn about the trickle-down effect of the industry's success, from the opportunities it creates for everyday ropers to the broader economic impacts. Experts discuss the future of the industry, emphasizing the role of sponsorships and the ripple effects on related professions.
This episode offers a comprehensive look at the rope horse industry's past, present, and future, providing valuable insights for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

$55,000 Payday for four-year old mare Relentless PYC at Old West: What It Means for the Roping Industry

Welcome to an exciting episode from the Three String Cattle Company in Utah, where we celebrate a monumental victory at the Old West Futurity for Relentless PYC and Miles Baker.
In this episode, Miles shares the exciting details of the mare’s journey, her impressive earnings of $93,000 midway through her four-year-old year, and the remarkable team effort that made this success possible. We also explore the dedication and commitment of the event organizers, highlighting the generous $400,000 in added money and the 100% payback, showcasing their unwavering support for the industry.
We get insights from experts like Trevor Brazile and Ty Smith, who discuss the mare's exceptional abilities and the significance of her breeding. The conversation extends to the broader implications of such events on the industry, where Rhen Richard emphasizes the importance of pioneering breeding programs aimed at creating top-tier roping horses.