When he’s dressed all in black, some people think that tall and imposing Ben Emison looks like Johnny Cash. But it’s Elvis, who died 30 years ago today (Aug. 16, 1977), with whom this performance horse industry entrepreneur is most often identified.

More than 20 years ago, Emison, owner of Ben Emison Equine Insurance Company, enjoyed instant notoriety when he volunteered to perform as an Elvis impersonator in a skit benefiting National Cutting Horse Association-affiliated charities. A few years ago, he donned a wig and jumpsuit for a NYCHA benefit (top), and on July 11, 2007, he gave a command performance (photo with hat and another Elvis impersonator in background)) at a surprise 70th birthday party hosted by Bob and Nan Kingsley

Like the King, Emison spent his early years in Mississippi, where he trained and showed Quarter Horses for Thaggard Farms and fell in love with the sport of cutting.

“Cutting doesn’t have any barriers,” said Emison. “You can ride young, you can ride old. Just being able to compete on your own horse is what has made the sport. People enjoy being able to take off their business clothes and put on a hat and boots and spurs and just be Western. It’s exciting for everyone involved.”

Emison’s involvement with cutting is many-faceted. He is a partner with Milt Bradford and Jim Ware in Western Bloodstock, the company that produces sales for NCHA, including the NCHA Futurity Sales at Will Rogers Equestrian Center in Fort Worth. Over the years he has trained, shown and bred champion cutting horses; acquired an auctioneer’s license – he still takes up the gavel for charity functions; advised major breeders; and served as an NCHA director for 18 years and as an executive committee member for nine years.

Emison and his wife Jan live on a ranch in Weatherford, TX.