Four years removed from being recognized with the American Farriers Journal Most Improved Award following the World Championship Blacksmiths’ 12th season, Dillon Crane has captured the national championship in Fort Worth, Texas.
The Waxhaw, N.C., farrier finished the season with 658 points to outpace Stan Mullen of Williamstown, Ky., (650) and Chris Madrid of Stanley, N.M. (646).
Jessica Melvin of Asbury, N.J., won the Category 3 overall championship and advances to Category 4. Mason Mileski of Farr West, Utah, won the Category 2 overall championship and advances to Category 3. Troy Wood of Tonasket, Wash., won the Category 1 overall championship. He advances to Categories 4 after qualifying for the WCB Horseshoeing Team.
Carl Via of Mineral, Va., won the Iron Range Mfg. Striker of the Year and Daniel Russo of Aubrey, Texas, won the American Farriers Journal Most Improved Award.