You always know when George Minic is around. You can hear his brash voice a mile away. You certainly know what he thinks because he’ll say so regardless of whose in ear shot. George Minic has been an icon for the Appaloosa world since he showed his first Appaloosa at a regional show in 1962. His winning ways have been so consistent that many have asked to learn what the secret is to his success.

George won the Junior Grand Champion and the Senior Grand Champion Gelding titles at his“first” Appaloosa National Show. He set the bar high for himself and kept it there for his entire show career. George and his wife, Mary Lou, have been a successful team in and out of the show ring. They were the only husband and wife combination to win the Sportsmanship Award given at the National Show. They also produced an Appaloosa mare, Kitty Jo, that appeared in the Rose Parade in Pasadena for 25 consecutive years. A feat never matched by another horse. George and Mary Lou were present at the first founding meeting to establish the Cal Western Appaloosa Racing Association. George also served as a Cal Western Director in the 1980s.

George was not only an exhibitor but a judge and teacher. He has been a judge for 30 years and an inspector for almost a decade. Articles written in the “Appaloosa News” presented his tips on exercise, confirmation and what he looks for in a horse. George is also an excellent auctioneer and has performed this task many times in Southern California supporting the well known SCAC Stallion Auction & Futurity among other major affairs throughout the equine industry.

ApHC records are not complete enough to reflect all of the 28 World and National Champions George produced when the classes were huge during the 60’s, 70’s and early 80’s. George has continued to show winning Appaloosa horses through August 2004 when he and Mary Lou retired and moved to New Mexico.