Who was Bob Avila? Tributes pour in as Horse trainer and Yellowstone star passes away
Northern California-born NRCHA Million Dollar Rider and Hall of Fame inductee Bob Avila died on Saturday at age 72. The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) announced the news of his passing on Facebook on November 9. According to the post, Bob is survived by his wife Dana, and son BJ Avila. The late horseman's funeral and memorial details were said to be posted later.
Bob Avila's horseriding brilliance and fame had earned him a special appearance in Paramount's Yellowstone. The late trainer played himself in Episode 8 of the show's 3rd season, titled I Killed a Man Today.
Soon after news of his death was made public, people began sending their tributes to the renowned horseman. Many took to AQHA's Facebook post to mourn the loss of the legendary horseman.
Facebook user Chelsea Schneider penned a heartfelt message after Bob's passing. She called the late horseman her "personal hero". Chelsea said she had the opportunity to watch Bob at every show in Oregon and she would practice the skills she learned from Bob on her $300 pony. Further praising the late mentor, she wrote on Facebook:
"Bob didn't just participate in these events, he excelled at them all. He was a true master of every discipline, and I, along with countless others, learned from his expertise every time he stepped into the arena."
Chelsea called Bob’s death a "devastating loss".
Moreover, Larson Performance Horses expressed gratitude for Bob's guidance and mentoring. The company said that his contributions and impact on the equine industry will not be forgotten. They sent their condolences to Bob's family via a Facebook post.
WhoaZone Equine also shared their tribute for Bob Avila. They acknowledged and honored Bob's innovative capabilities in the horse riding business and sent their prayers for his family.
Bob Avila was the first AQHA Professional Horseman
Surrounded by parents who were both horse riders, Bob Avila had the chance to learn different things about horsemanship at a young age.
Bob's official website referred to him as an owner and trainer. The late 72-year-old had been associated with the AQHA for over 35 years. Within this span, Bob had achieved more than 37 World Champion titles. The website described him as "one of the most versatile and accomplished horsemen".
In an interview posted on the Arizona National Livestock Show's website, the late trainer revealed his favorite events included roping, reining, and reining cow horses. He reflected on his childhood-favorite, adding:
"When I was a kid, my mother would say my favorite event was the gate opening. Because I could go in whenever I wanted."
Bob had credited his family and upbringing for his eventual interest in the equine industry. Speaking about the influence of horse shows on kids, he had said:
"I believe it's physically and mentally good for them. All kids I know who grew up at shows are very outgoing."
The late horseman founded the Avila Training Stables in California — a business dealing with breeding and sales. Bob Avila managed this equine affair alongside his wife Dana.
In 2006, he was inducted into the NRCHA Hall of Fame. Bob was the first person to be honored with the title of AQHA Professional Horseman. He was also bestowed with the title of World's Greatest Horseman two times.
Bob Avila's other accomplishments included the Snaffle Bit Futurity Championship, which he won three times, and the Magnificent 7 Reined Cow Horse competition, where he emerged victorious thrice.
