A Record-Setting Snaffle Bit Futurity Career
Ted Robinson is considered one of the greatest competitors in the history of the reined cow horse industry. Known for his remarkable consistency, horsemanship, and success in major National Reined Cow Horse Association events, Robinson built a career that made him one of the most accomplished riders the sport has ever produced. His accomplishments in the show pen, combined with his charismatic personality and influence as a teacher and mentor, helped shape the growth and popularity of reined cow horse competition across the United States.
Raised in California, Robinson grew up around horses, cattle, and ranch life, developing practical horsemanship skills from an early age. California's vaquero tradition and stock horse culture heavily influenced his approach to training and competition. He became involved in horse training professionally during a period when reined cow horse competition was still developing into a nationally recognized sport. Robinson's natural talent with horses and his ability to read cattle quickly helped him stand out among his peers.
Seven Snaffle Bit Futurity Championships
The only rider in NRCHA history to win the Snaffle Bit Futurity Open seven times. His first victory came in 1987 aboard Nu Cash; his seventh in 2005 aboard Nu Circle Of Light — an 18-year span of elite performance.
Robinson first gained major national recognition in 1987 when he won the prestigious NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity aboard the stallion Nu Cash. The event tests a horse and rider's ability in herd work, rein work, and fence work. That victory marked the beginning of one of the most dominant careers in the history of the association.
| Year | Horse |
|---|---|
| 1987 | Nu Cash |
| 1991 | Master Checks |
| 1995 | The Nu Colonel |
| 1996 | Shesa Lota Cash |
| 1997 | Smart Little Cash |
| 2000 | Smokums Prize |
| 2005 | Nu Circle Of Light |
One of the most notable aspects of Robinson's success was his connection to the bloodline of Nu Cash. Several of the horses he rode to major championships were directly related to the influential stallion, helping establish Nu Cash as one of the important sires in reined cow horse history.
Earnings Records and Industry Firsts
Beyond the Snaffle Bit Futurity, Robinson won numerous major championships throughout his career, including victories in derby, hackamore, bridle, and reining events. He captured the prestigious World's Greatest Horseman title twice — an event designed to identify the most complete horseman in the industry. His versatility and longevity helped make him the winningest rider in NRCHA history for many years.
Robinson was an NRCHA Million Dollar Rider; his earnings exceeded $1.8 million as of his 2006 recognition. His success helped elevate the visibility of reined cow horse competition and inspired many younger riders entering the sport.
Mentor, Clinician, and Family Legacy
In addition to his competitive achievements, Ted Robinson became known as an entertaining speaker, clinician, and mentor. His humorous personality and approachable teaching style made him a popular figure at clinics and industry events. Many riders respected him not only for his competitive success but also for his willingness to share knowledge and encourage younger horsemen.
Robinson's influence also continued through his family. His son, Tucker Robinson, became a successful NRCHA competitor and futurity champion, continuing the Robinson family legacy within the cow horse industry.
Accomplishments
- NRCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Champion – 7 times (1987, 1991, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2005)
- World's Greatest Horseman – 2 times
- NRCHA Million Dollar Rider
- NRCHA lifetime earnings exceeding $1.8 million (as of 2006)
- Winningest rider in NRCHA history (for many years)
- Champions in derby, hackamore, bridle, and reining events
- Key role in establishing Nu Cash as an influential reined cow horse sire
- Son Tucker Robinson — NRCHA competitor and futurity champion
