CLINT ALLEN

Clint Allen is a native of New Zealand and came to the United States in 1996 to begin an apprenticeship with NCHA Hall of Fame rider, Matt Gaines. At that time, he had no experience in showing cutting horses, but, as the son of a farrier, he grew up around horses and competed in various disciplines such as reining and western pleasure.

It wasn't long after Allen's arrival into the performance horse world that he knew what he would be doing for the rest of his life. He fell in love with the sport and, from day one, committed himself to the industry and his success.

In 1998, Clint garnered his first check from the cutting pen. His first major victory came in 2001 when he showed Merada Clone to the Limited Open Reserve Championship at the NCHA Futurity. In 2002, Clint won more than $55,000. The following year, he nearly doubled his earnings with numerous triumphs, including an Open Championship at the Bonanza Cutting and a third place finish in the Open 4-Year-Old finals at the NCHA Summer Spectacular.

In 2004, Clint's career skyrocketed. He won more than $200,000 and claimed the prestigious Open victory at the Breeder's Invitational on one of his favorite horses of all times, Aristo Katz. In May of 2005, Clint went to work for non-pro competitor Julie Wrigley at her Weatherford, Texas ranch. Under this successful partnership, Julie has claimed more than $350,000 and Clint more than $1.5 million, carrying his lifetime earnings to more than $1.9 million.

Other loyal customers of Clint have been Jack and Susan Waggoner, Tommy Manion, Buffalo Ranch, Armondo Costa of Brazil and Shirroco Ranch of Canada.

Clint is dedicated to promoting the sport of cutting to the best of his ability, both nationally and internationally. He is a AAA judge and conducts clinics across the nation, as well as worldwide.

Clint and his wife, Shayle were married in 2001. In June 2007, they were blessed with twin girls Kate and Addison, who have been a great addition not only to the family, but Clint's on-the-road fan base, as well.