BOB AVILA OBITUARY: LEGENDARY AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE ASSOCIATION PROFESSIONAL HORSEMAN AND HALL OF FAME MEMBER PASSES AWAY AT 72
The equestrian world is mourning the loss of Bob Avila, a highly respected and accomplished American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Professional Horseman and Hall of Fame member, who passed away at the age of 72.
Bob’s impact on the horse industry will be remembered for generations to come, and his legacy will continue to inspire and influence horsemen and women around the world.
Born in November 1951, Bob grew up in Redwood City, California, surrounded by American Quarter Horses. His mother, a riding instructor, and his father, a trainer and rodeo cowboy, instilled in him a passion for horses that would become the foundation of his life’s work. After high school, Bob set out on his own, determined to make a name for himself in the horse industry.
Through hard work, dedication, and a natural talent for horsemanship, Bob became one of the most well-known and respected all-around horsemen in the profession.
His impressive list of accomplishments includes training champions in various associations, such as AQHA, NRHA, NRCHA, and NCHA. Some of his most notable accomplishments include winning the World’s Greatest Horseman title on Paid By Chic in 2000 and Light N Fine in 2007.
Bob’s contributions to the horse industry extend far beyond his impressive competition record. He was a founding member of the AQHA Professional Horsemen’s Committee, served on the executive board and judges committee, and was an AQHA judge for 19 years. In 1995, he was named the first AQHA Professional Horseman of the Year and has been on the judges committee since 2009.
Bob’s impact on the horse industry was not limited to his own accomplishments. He was a mentor, a teacher, and a friend to countless horsemen and women, always willing to share his knowledge and expertise with others. His kindness, generosity, and warm smile will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Bob is survived by his wife, Dana, son, BJ Avila, and the rest of the Avila family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the horses he trained, and his memory will be cherished by the equestrian community for generations to come.
