Geno Middleton

07/13/2026

07/13/2026

You’re watching a Missouri Fox Trotting Horse when someone beside you says, “That doesn’t look smooth.” As a Missouri Fox Trotter rider, you probably smile and reply, “But it sure is comfortable.”

That simple exchange happens more often than you might think.

At first glance, a proper fox trot may not resemble what many people expect. This is because the goal of the fox trot isn’t to eliminate movement; it’s built on rhythm.

The distinctive broken diagonal rhythm allows the horse and rider to move together rather than in opposition to one another. Instead of experiencing a jarring bounce typical of many gaits, the rider enjoys a steady, coordinated motion. Many riders describe it as similar to sitting in a rocking chair—there is movement, but it’s rhythmic, balanced, and remarkably comfortable.

Comfort doesn’t come from the absence of movement. It comes from the correct fox trot rhythm.

There’s a reason the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse has long been associated with the saying, "To Ride One Is to Own One." Once riders experience the comfort of a proper fox trot, they understand why so many never want to ride anything else.

07/11/2026

Happy Birthday Madi McCracken ! We love you!

06/06/2026

🏆 2025 MFTHBA TRAINER OF THE YEAR 🏆

The wait is over!

Congratulations to Geno Middleton, the 2025 MFTHBA Trainer of the Year!

This award recognizes the achievements of the professional horsemen and women who dedicate their lives to the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse. With all MFTHBA point classes now counting toward the standings, earning the title of Trainer of the Year requires excellence across the entire season.

Geno's accomplishments throughout 2025 earned him the highest point total among all professional trainers competing in MFTHBA events.

Please join us in congratulating Geno Middleton on this outstanding achievement!

Final Top 10 Standings:

Geno Middleton
Bryce Jepperson
Dallee Porter
Mike L. Rutledge
David Ogle
Randy Dale Williams
Erin N. Patterson
Brad Huffman
Donnie J. Daugherty
Josh Dampier

The MFTHBA extends its sincere appreciation to every professional horseman and horsewoman who contributes to the success, promotion, and future of the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse.

Join us June 10-13 at the 2026 Spring Show & Three-Year-Old Futurity as we celebrate the people and horses that make our breed special.
Pictured: 2025 Youth 12 to 14 WC, Oh Bay Bee M., Michael McGowan, for Barbara & Geno Middleton Pomona, MO

01/28/2026

01/28/2026

We had a great time at Equifest of Kansas! Amazing people, great entertainment and true horse lovers braved the weather to attend this amazing event! Thank you to all who attended.