First call in Monday’s John Deere Open Division Finals didn’t rattle Ken Platt, even though this is his first time to show in the NCHA Futurity.

“It’s a tough spot, but this is a great horse and that’s what makes the difference,” said 22-year-old Platt, referring to Downtown Smarts, who marked 221 points to win the championship.

Scott Wray on Quejana Reeves, by Quejanaisalena, owned and bred by Bill and Anne Riddle, was reserve with 217 points.

Dwight and Kathi Fisher, Denver, CO, purchased Downtown Smarts for $17,500 during last year’s NCHA Futurity Sales, at the urging of Platt, who had viewed the colt’s video performance on the internet. The Downtown Cat-sired colt, was started by Jesse Pritchard and consigned by his breeder, Painted Springs Farm.

Platt, who lives in Fort Lupton, CO, started showing cutting horses when he was eight. He credits his neighbor, leading rider Lloyd Cox, as well as Matt Rava, for teaching him “the majority” of what he knows about showing.