National High School Rodeo Association members submitted 56 entries representing two countries and 17 states in this year’s Western Horseman Trade Craft Showcase.
For 90 years, Western Horseman has celebrated and supported Western art and craftsmanship in countless ways—from the iconic covers of the magazine and feature stories in print and online to annual contests that recognize exceptional talent.
Supporting the next generation of Western horsemen and women, both in and out of the arena, remains a core part of that mission. The Trade Craft Showcase provides an opportunity to recognize the creativity, skill and dedication of NHSRA members while helping preserve the traditions that define the Western way of life.
Thanks to the support of its valued partners, Western Horseman awarded more than $8,000 in scholarships to 14 NHSRA members during this year’s showcase, along with several additional prizes, including awards from YETI. Continuing its partnership with Be A Maker School, Western Horseman also provided educational opportunities to the Overall Grand Champion and the recipient of the Aspiring Maker Award, helping them further develop their craft.
“We hear a lot that this way of life is dying, and I look around and know that is absolutely not true — it is in good hands with the kids standing here today,” said Dani Licklider, Director of Western Brands at Morris Communications.
Results
Overall Grand Champion — Kaweloanu Castro
Kaweloanu Castro was named the 2026 Western Horseman Trade Craft Showcase Overall Grand Champion for his exceptional Hawaiian Tree Saddle. In recognition of his achievement, Castro received a $1,250 scholarship, a Dedicated Level membership to Be A Maker School that includes a six-month mentorship program valued at $1,500, as well as prizes from Western Horseman and YETI.
When asked what being a maker means to him, Castro reflected on the responsibility that comes with the craft.
“Being a maker means that I have a lot of responsibility. When making a saddle, you need to make sure you have all the right measurements. You need to make sure you’re cutting in the right area on the leather hide. If you’re making a saddle for a buyer, it’s important for the tree to fit the rider. You don’t want to build a saddle that doesn’t fit them or their horse. The journey of making this saddle taught me that paying attention to detail is the number one rule for a saddle maker. Cutting corners won’t always make the job go faster. Like my mentor always tells me, ‘Always double-check your measurements before you start cutting.’”
Reserve Champion — Lili Barcus
Lili Barcus earned the title of 2026 Western Horseman Trade Craft Showcase Reserve Champion with her Border Collie Etched Art. In recognition of her accomplishment, Barcus received a $1,000 scholarship, along with prizes from Western Horseman and YETI.
When asked why she wants to learn the Western trades, Barcus shared, “I enjoy sharing my memories through my artwork.”
Aspiring Maker — Oakley Ward
The Aspiring Maker Award is selected by the judges to recognize a student who has demonstrated a strong commitment to continuing their education and growth in the Western trades. This year’s recipient, Oakley Ward, was awarded a Doer Level scholarship to Be A Maker School, providing her with the opportunity to develop her skills and craftsmanship further.
All-Around — Nanea Bonacorsi
The All-Around Award recognizes the student who demonstrates versatility by competing in multiple craft categories. This year, Nanea Bonacorsi stood out by submitting entries in all four categories, earning her the All-Around title. In addition to the honor, Bonacorsi received a Doer Level scholarship to Be A Maker School and an insulated cooler bag from YETI.
For Bonacorsi, being a maker is about more than creating something by hand.
“Being a maker means creating something with the purpose to tell a story. Every piece I make has a special message to go with it. Through my artwork, I can preserve memories, share the horse that shaped my life, and share my passion for art.”
People’s Choice — Sevens Clendenin
The People’s Choice Award is selected by Trade Craft Showcase fans, who vote for their favorite entry from the show. Sevens Clendenin earned this year’s honor with his Weathered Cowboy Sketch and received a Doer Level scholarship to Be A Maker School to continue developing his craft.
When asked why he wants to learn the Western trades, Clendenin shared, “To be able to live the lifestyle that’s in the roping and cattle business.”
Craftsmanship
The Craftsmanship category featured 20 entries, showcasing everything from handcrafted saddles to intricately braided halters. Travis Evans earned first place with his expertly crafted Wade saddle. Lili Barcus claimed second place with a welded headdress, while Wade Krysl took third place with his red-handle knife.
Fashion and Jewelry
The Fashion and Jewelry category featured nine entries, showcasing creations ranging from custom shirts to a beautifully tooled concho belt. Bailey Passalaqua earned first place with her Tooled Concho Belt. Kally Wills took second place with her Pink Shirt with Ruffles, while Rein Liggett claimed third place with his Scarf Slide/Ring.
Art
The Art category featured 14 entries, showcasing a variety of creative works from detailed pencil drawings to vibrant paintings. Sevens Clendenin earned first place with his Weathered Cowboy Sketch. Annabell Ondrik took second place with her Lace-up Boot Ceramic, while Tacen Carr claimed third place with his Leather Back Number Plaque.
Household Items
The Household Items category featured 13 entries, showcasing a variety of handcrafted pieces ranging from a back number bar to handmade quilts. Oakley Ward earned first place with her Blue Rope Vase and also claimed second place with her Orange Rope Vase. Belle Brackett took third place with her Painted Skull.
The 2026 Western Horseman Trade Craft Showcase once again highlighted the remarkable creativity, craftsmanship and dedication of NHSRA members from across the country and beyond. From expertly tooled leatherwork and custom Western apparel to original artwork and handcrafted home decor, each entry reflected the pride and passion these young makers bring to preserving Western traditions. Western Horseman congratulates all of this year’s participants and winners and looks forward to seeing the next generation of Western artisans continue to build on these time-honored skills.
