WILLMAR — Rick Houske, of Willmar, is a 2020 inductee of the Pinto Horse Association of America's Individual Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes adult members in good standing for 10 consecutive years or more who have made significant contributions to the organization.
A teacher and coach in Paynesville for 34 years, Houske has been a staunch supporter of the Pinto Horse Association .
According to a submitted biography, Houske Sports from 1991 to 2005 was the official merchandiser of the association, providing a variety of clothing items for purchase and donating merchandise and awards to different classes and events, including the Pinto World Championship Show leadline classes, the Queen’s Contest and the Pinto Heritage Foundation auction.
A lifetime member since 1986, Houske was not only active on the national level, but on the local level as well.
He was a member of the Minnesota Pinto Horse Association from 1986 to 2006. From 1998 to 2001, he served as a Minnesota board member, taking the position of vice president in 1999 and serving as president from 2000 to 2001.
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In 1998 Houske was awarded the Minnesota Pinto Horse Association’s “Grand Ole Pintoer” award, the state equivalent of the national individual award.
Houske, his wife, Gale, and their children also exhibited often at local shows and at the national show.
Houske showed a variety of horses, from saddle types to miniatures. In 1991, Houske and his horse won the title of National Champion Halter Saddle-Type Gelding.
According to a news release, Houske’s support contributed greatly to the national association's growth and expansion. He was a large part of the national show’s success during his time as the official merchandiser.
