Every year, American Farriers Journal recognizes three Rising Shoeing Stars for their work in the industry and aspirations as future hoof-care leaders. The three winners include runners-up Elise Umstead of Prince George, Va., and Benjamin Haar of Utica, N.Y., along with first-place winner Payden Talbott of Pulaski, Wis

Each recipient receives a plaque, a 1-year subscription to AFJ, the AFJ “Kitchen Sink” package, consisting of a footcare library of more than 3,500 pages of material and free registration to the International Hoof-Care Summit. Additionally, the first-place winner, Talbott, received $1,000 while the two runners-up each took home $500. The schools that produced the winners also receive plaques and AFJ’s “Kitchen Sink” package. 

The award, created in 2009, is co-sponsored by Adeptus Nutrition Inc., American Farriers Journal, Pyranha and Texas Farrier Supply. 

First-place Rising Shoeing Star winner Payden Talbott shares his advice for success in farriery for future hoof-care professionals. 

Having grown up with horses in Wyoming, Payden Talbott began developing his horsemanship skills at an early age. These experiences and a deep desire to work with horses led Talbott to Heartland Horseshoeing School in Lamar, Mo. Talbott spent a summer break working with farrier Joe Nygren of Pulaski, Wis., which led to a great mentorship. 

After graduating…