Meet Darlene Mills

While still showing horses, mostly halter, in the 1980's I had time on my hands after the class was over so I began lending a hand wherever needed.  This evolved from opening the back gate to eventually helping in the office with the paper work, which was all done by hand at that time.

 

One day I decided that this might be something I'd like to do so I "hung out my shingle" and a couple of clubs hired me to secretary their shows.  I even did a few Paint and Miniature Horse shows along the way.

 

In the late 80's I started the Back to Basics shows in Santa Rosa, initially with the help of some friends, and it grew to 3 separate shows there.  After my husband passed away, I decided to move one of the shows to Rancho Murieta, added the cattle classes, applied for PCQHA Youth Qualifying status, and we're still going strong.  This is due to the tremendous support we receive from the exhibitors.

 

I was so very fortunate that people put their trust in me to be their secretary.  For awhile, I was doing several show a year in Nevada, as well , but now I have plenty to keep me busy right here in California.

 

I must give most of the credit my incredible staff at the horse shows.  Without them, I'd be out of business in a heartbeat. We really are a team and we all like each other a LOT.  That makes all the difference.

 

I love doing the horse shows, most of the people are so nice, many of whom I've known since I started showing in the 1970's.  One of my greatest joys is seeing new people coming to the show, really nervous and not knowing what to expect at a breed show, and end up going home with ribbons and prizes saying they can't wait to come back again.