Learn about the Crago family's six-decade involvement in quarter horse breeding and their commitment to producing top-quality horses. Discover their notable stallions, successful achievements, and dedication to excellence.
The Crago Family: A Legacy of Quarter Horse Excellence
( Credit to: Tsln )
The Crago family has been deeply involved in the world of quarter horses for over six decades. Vincent and Margaret Crago, along with their three sons, have dedicated themselves to breeding top-quality quarter horses that excel in various disciplines. Their commitment to excellence and their carefully selected bloodlines have made them a force to be reckoned with in the quarter horse industry.
Since their humble beginnings in 1957, the Crago family has nurtured a deep love for these magnificent horses. Their journey began with the purchase of two AQHA registered mares and a stallion, marking the start of their quarter horse breeding venture. Initially operating as "Crago Brothers" in partnership with Chet and Zola Crago, the family's passion for quarter horses only grew stronger over the years.
Influential Stallions: Wrangler Red and Beckwith Dun
One of the most influential stallions in the Crago family's breeding program was Wrangler Red. Acquired in 1963, this red dun stallion boasted a pedigree that included the legendary King P-234, as well as Chubby and Yellow Jacket. The offspring of Wrangler Red proved to be exceptional in various disciplines, excelling in 4-H, roping, and ranch work.
Another significant addition to their breeding program was Beckwith Dun, a red dun stallion purchased from Margaret's father, Ralph Beckwith. With lineage tracing back to Sugar Bars, Leo, and King, Beckwith Dun became an invaluable asset to the Crago family's breeding endeavors.
Achievements and Successes
Throughout the 1980s, the Crago family achieved numerous wins at Center of the Nation Quarter Horse Association shows. They garnered titles such as Futurity Halter Champions, Hi Points, Super Horse Awards, and Working Cow Horse titles. In 1991, the three Crago brothers, Bruce, Ralph, and Chuck, even placed fourth at the prestigious AQHA World Championship in Team Penning, riding their own Crago-bred horses.
Vince and Margaret, along with their three sons, formed the Crago Cattle Co. partnership in 1976. Even after Vince's retirement in 2000, each of the Crago sons established their own individual horse and cattle operations, carrying on the family's commitment to breeding exceptional quarter horses.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, the Crago family's legacy continues to thrive in the quarter horse industry. Bruce Crago and his family raise horses and cattle, with their children actively involved in showing, rodeoing, and ranching. Colby Crago and his wife Tanya have achieved roping championships, while their daughters have excelled in rodeo events. Ralph and Becky Crago and their children are also actively engaged in horse and cattle ranching, with their grandchildren eagerly assisting with various tasks.
Over the years, the Crago family has had several notable stallions, including Nestea, Beckwith Playboy, and Loves Jessie James. These stallions, along with their carefully selected broodmares, have produced exceptional foals that have found success in a wide range of disciplines, from roping and ranch work to barrel racing and team penning.
Conclusion
The Crago family's six-decade journey in the world of quarter horses is a testament to their dedication and passion for breeding excellence. With influential stallions like Wrangler Red and Beckwith Dun, as well as their numerous achievements and successes, the Crago family has made a lasting impact on the quarter horse industry. Today, they continue to raise top-quality quarter horses and carry on their legacy through the active involvement of their children and grandchildren. The Crago family's commitment to breeding exceptional quarter horses ensures that their impact will endure for generations to come.