Jim and Brad Huffman
In Town: Jim (pictured right) is an insurance agent with the Naught-Naught Agency in Ozark, Mo. He recently merged his insurance company, Jim Huffman Insurance, with Naught-Naught. Brad (pictured left) is the assistant manager and yard foreman of Heartwood Lumber Sales in Ozark, Mo.
In the Country: Both Jim and Brad train and show Tennessee Walking Horses at Huffman Family Stables just outside of Ozark in Christian County. Brad also trains Missouri Fox Trotters. Jim and his wife, Donna, grew up in the Fox Trotter business, so gaited horses have always been a part of the Huffman family’s lives.
The most challenging part of town and country life: “Time management,” says Jim. “Absolutely,” agrees Brad. When asked what helps them to manage their time well, Jim says the key is, “hiring good people and going to the office early every morning.” “Number one is hiring good people,” says Brad, agreeing with his father. “Number two is communication and trying to plan ahead as much as possible.”
Their advice for newcomers: Jim suggests that those new to horse showing should “interview lots of trainers.” Brad’s advice is to, “educate yourself on every aspect of it, not just the trainers, but the breed and the bloodlines. Familiarize yourself with all of it.”
Favorite horses at the barn: Jim’s favorite horse is a beauty named Victory Colors, whose claim to fame is being one of the most awarded Walking Horses alive in Missouri today. Brad’s preferred pick is a Walking Horse who goes by the barn name ‘Corn Dog’ – his registered name is Dream Big. Corn Dog was purchased with the prize money Brad received after winning at the State Fair. The reason for his unique name? “You buy a corn dog at the fair,” laughs Brad.
Story and Photo by Klaire Bruce
