For the Year In Walking Horse juvenile dedication, not one but two talented ladies were selected. Erica and Maria Derickson, the twin daughters of Herbert and Jill Derickson, have grown up and have been involved in practically every aspect of the horse industry.

Success has always seemed to follow the Derickson girls. They both won their first blue ribbons at the age of five on their first show horse, Loose Ends, they later won several victories with world champion Star’s Black Pearl where they shared the reins. Of course, there was also the crowd favorite World Champion Walking Pony Frivolous Choice who carried them to victories.

During their careers as juveniles they have been seen in the ring and in the winner’s circle more times than can be calculated on horses owned by them, their grandparents John and Marie Brundige, and other customers in their father’s barn.

Erica’s main focus has been in the equitation division and she has also captured two world championships, two reserve world championships, two reserve world grand championship and one TWHBEA National Futurity Championship.

Maria’s career has been just as impressive with two world championships, a reserve world grand championship and two TWHBEA National Futurity Championships. They closed out their final year in juvenile competition in 2005 and achieved success in all aspects of the youth classes. They have Showed in 11 and under, equitation, juvenile 12-17, and finally the TWHBEA Youth Medallion canter class, their favorite level of competition.

Both young ladies now attend Middle Tennessee State University to prepare for their futures and they have “sayings” to live by, which they pass on to everyone. From Maria Derickson, “The decisions and actions that you make in your life paint a self portrait. Make sure you autograph it with pride.” From Erica Derickson, “Every experience and every person God puts in our lives is meant to prepare us for the future, which only He can see.”

They are remarkable young women both inside and outside the show ring. They will undoubtedly be recognized with many honors throughout their lives, and we are pleased to honor them by dedicating the 2005 Year in Walking Horses to them.