Jeffrey Gough and Eddie Young (pictured) each scored 217 points on Tuesday, January 13, to tie as co-champions of the Abilene Spectacular Non-Pro Derby. Last year’s Non-Pro Derby champion was Beau Galyean, who later gave up his non-pro status and won the 2008 NCHA Open Futurity and last week’s Abilene Spectacular Derby on Metallic Cat, for Alvin Fults.

Gough, 32, of Graham, TX, rode Christmas Mate, a gelded son of Smart Mate that he purchased from his father, Ping Gough, also of Graham. Gough’s only other check in limited age competition came as 2005 NCHA Derby Non-Pro Ltd finalist. Ping Gough owned 1993 NCHA Futurity champion Bobs Smokin Joe.

Eddie Young, 62, San Angelo, TX, was aboard Neat Little Ray, a Dual Rey son that he recently purchased from Mary Ann Rapp, who tied Kelle Earnheart with 216.5 points, the Abilene Non-Pro Derby’s second-highest score. Rapp rode Amanda Starlena, by Smart Little Lena, a mare she raised out of her 2003 NCHA Super Stakes Classic Non-Pro champion Amanda Stargun. Earnheart’s mount was Smooth An Boon, by Smooth As A Cat.

Young was a non-pro finalist in last year’s Abilene Spectacular Derby on Que Paso Cat, who he showed to place third in the 2007 NCHA Amateur Futurity.

See the full results with pedigrees and earnings.