By Chelsea Johnson
As featured in the Fall 2024 issue of Arabian Horse World
The Run for a Million Reining Event has garnered widespread recognition in recent years, partly due to its association with the popular TV show Yellowstone and its creator, Taylor Sheridan. Drawing in a significant number of spectators from all across the United States, the event offers a chance to witness the top reining horses in the industry. While the Quarter horse is typically synonymous with reining, this year’s event marked a departure from tradition, with the participation of two Arabians. Notably, one of them was SS A Noble Star, a 30-time National Champion and Reserve, alongside her owner, Michelle Pease-Paulsen.
SS Noble Star and Michelle have a remarkable history of success on the Arabian show circuit, having competed and triumphed together for an impressive seven years. Michelle acquired SS A Noble Star, affectionately known as “Sansa,” from Tyson Randle in 2017. The late LaRae Fletcher Powell, Michelle’s close friend of nearly forty years, spotted Sansa being ridden by Tyson at the US Nationals and recognized that Michelle had to have her. With an uncanny understanding of Michelle’s needs, LaRae played a pivotal role in bringing them together. Since then, Michelle and Sansa have formed an unstoppable partnership. Their accolades include clinching the HA/AA Reining AAOTR at US Nationals for five consecutive years. Michelle expressed her desire for Sansa to leave her legacy as a champion while also wanting to continue their journey in the Reining arena. LaRae and Skylar Powell suggested that they set their sights on The Run for the Million, and together, they embarked on this ambitious pursuit.
Qualifying for The Run for a Million is no small feat. Riders have to finish in the top five at a qualifying show to be eligible to compete. Michelle and Sansa took on the challenge at the Washington State Reining Association show in Wenatchee, Washington, where they competed in the Rookie Level 2 and Non-Pro classes. Their hard work paid off as they secured second place in each class, earning them a spot at The Run for a Million event in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Looking back, Michelle fondly remembers the warm and supportive atmosphere at the larger reining shows. Despite being the only Half-Arabian competing alongside Quarter Horses, she proudly states that Sansa always holds her own and serves as a remarkable breed ambassador. Thanks to her composed nature and remarkable athletic ability, Sansa receives heaps of compliments from fellow exhibitors and trainers. Michelle emphasizes that competing at prestigious events like The Run for a Million and the US National Championships requires a special kind of horse, and Sansa fits the bill perfectly.
Michelle holds nothing back in praising Sansa, describing her as one of the most dependable horses she’s ever had the privilege of riding. According to her, Sansa consistently delivers outstanding performances, making her a reliable partner in the arena. Clearly, this team shines every time they step into the spotlight, and The Run for a Million was no exception.
Upon arriving at the event, Michelle was excited and in awe at seeing renowned reining trainers and riders such as Cade and Mandy McCutcheon, and Casey Deary in person. She vividly remembers competing in two different arenas for her two events. The Rookie Arena had a more straightforward setup. In contrast, the arena for the Non-Pro event was nothing like she had ever experienced before. Michelle describes the sensation of entering the brightly lit grand stadium for the Non-Pro event. As she passed through a tunnel, she was met with a see-through screen displaying “The Run for a Million.” The atmosphere was electric, with DJs playing energetic music that perfectly complemented the reining patterns, creating an unforgettable experience.
Competing alongside ninety-two other riders in the Rookie Level Two and fifty-two others in the Non-Pro, Michelle and her horse, Sansa, delivered the rides of their lives in front of their Silver Aspen Ranch barn mates and industry friends. They finished tied for 35th in the Rookie Level Two and tied for 37th in the Non-Pro, an achievement that filled Michelle with pride.
Looking ahead, Michelle eagerly anticipates participating in The Run for a Million next year, with plans to accompany her beloved Sansa once again. She feels honored to have showcased her Half-Arabian at such prestigious events and encourages others to share the beauty and talent of this incredible breed with the world.
