The 2012 classes were inducted into the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame and the International Equine Veterinarian Hall Of Fame at the 9th annual International Hoof-Care Summit, Feb. 1 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The new members of the Halls Of Fame are farriers Clark Beckstead, James Findler and Rob Sigafoos. Inducted equine veterinarians include James Belknap, Amy Rucker and John Stewart.

The International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame

The International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame was started in 1993. This year’s three new members have all left their mark on the shoeing industry through hard work, dedication and a passion for equine footcare. A common thread in their careers is their willingness to share knowledge and help others in the industry improve the overall state of hoof care and soundness. Current members of the Hall served as the electors for this year’s nominees.

The late Clark Beckstead, who passed away March 14, 2011, was a highly respected farrier in the Santa Barbara, Calif., community. He received many nominations praising his work, a true testament to his lasting impact.

Beckstead attended Oklahoma Farriers College in the early ’70s on an impulse — an impulse that turned into an over 30-year career.

Beckstead’s wife, Karen, and son, Justin, are overjoyed to see Clark’s career honored in such a prestigious way. Justin says that the most rewarding part of his father’s career was the many young and ambitious farriers he had the opportunity to share his knowledge with. The greatest satisfaction at the end…