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Feature Interview · 2023
Dan Huss
NRHA Non Pro Coach of the Year & The Run for a Million
By Tracy Wager  ·  Bridle & Bit Magazine
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Dan Huss — Bridle & Bit Magazine 2023
Dan Huss  ·  Photo: Jen Kasper Media  ·  Bridle & Bit Magazine · 2023
Dan Huss is one of the most respected horsemen in the reining industry — a decorated competitor, gifted coach, and NRHA Non Pro Coach of the Year. As the 2023 season builds toward The Run for a Million in Las Vegas, Dan sits down with Bridle & Bit to discuss his qualified horse Whoz Joe Daddy, his coaching partnership with rising talent Dani, and what drives him to keep competing and mentoring at the highest level.
The Run for a Million
Q Dani and Jeanie's Chic have been with you a short time. They had a pretty amazing month of May in competition. What is the plan for this team heading towards The Run for a Million Competition?
A

The plan is to complete at the NRHA Derby, Reining By The Bay & The Run For A Million.

Q This year you qualified for The Run for A Million, as well, in the Open — What is that like?
A

Making the finals is always the goal when I show. Qualifying this year certainly was on the list of accomplishments for 2023 that I'd planned for but with so many extremely capable horses & riders competing it's gratifying to have landed in a position heading to Vegas.

Q Have you chosen your horse yet for TRFAM?
A

Whoz Joe Daddy "JoJo" who I qualified with is my pick to show on "Game Day". Deb, Neal & Chandler Winard have been awesome clients for many years. Chandler showed "JoJo" in the Non Pro events in 2022 with enormous success. It takes a tremendous amount of training & a special horse that is capable of switching gears to go from Non Pro competition to the highest level of Open competition. When Chandler offered me the reins for the Qualifier, I knew I had a great shot at making the top 10. This horse has the "WOW" factor in looks & talent plus a bunch of personality. I appreciate the continued support of the Winard's & I'm definitely looking forward to showing in Vegas!

Coaching & the Next Generation
Q Dan, you recently were awarded the NRHA Non Pro Coach of the Year. After a lifetime in the sport of Reining, how does this make you feel?
A

It's always nice to be recognized for the countless hours over the years that I've invested in our business & I genuinely enjoy seeing our clients reach their goals.

Q Having a young lady like Dani to coach is exciting to see. It is the future of Reining and it looks good. What is it like to have clients with the same passion and drive that has carried you throughout your career?
A

Dedication & ambition are a must to succeed in any endeavor, & in my opinion, even more than talent. Without the desire to learn & get back at it after a setback, it's nearly impossible to help the clients continue to make progress but Dani has proven that she is in it for the long haul.