Walking horse owner and breeder Paul Hughes, born June 13, 1925, passed away Jan. 20 after a long battle with COPD. He was 92.

A life-long resident of California, Hughes opened his first barn, Carousel Farms, in about 1950 and operated it until the early 1970s. In 1973, Hughes changed gears and opened Flo’s Airport Café at the Ontario Airport. He later opened a second location for the restaurant in Chino.

In 1980, Hughes opened Golden West Farm. He owned multiple notable horses over the years, including Coin’s Double Pride, 1989 World Grand Champion Amateur Specialty with Donna Hughes and 1992 60 and Over World Championship (with Hughes riding); Pride’s Merry Gold, a three-time world champion mare and two-time amateur canter world grand champion; Pusher’s Big Score, a three-year-old world grand champion and world champion aged stallion; Coin’s Triple Play; Pride’s Golden Gait; Pride’s Good As Gold, a world champion in the fine harness division; Coin’s High Noon; and Magic’s Go Girl. 

Hughes enjoyed a long-term partnership with his loving wife, Donna Hughes. Her two sons, Scott and Shawn Benham and grandsons Shad Hughes, Mac & Luke Benham are also survivors. 

Both Paul and Donna served in various leadership positions in California as well as representing the state on the Breeders’ Association board. 

Hughes’ dedication to the breed was legendary and he will be missed by many. 
In lieu of flowers, the family had requested donations be made to City of Hope.