Even though Bob Avila passed away on November 9, 2024, at the age of 72 due to diabetes and lung issues, his legacy remains strong in the horseracing world. Those who knew him or followed his career can attest to the significant impact he had, not only as a champion but also as a mentor and a true horseman.

Bob Avila - A Horseman's Impact Beyond the Finish Line

Early Life and Immersion in Horseracing

Bob was raised in Redwood City, California. His father was a rodeo cowboy who trained horses, and his mother gave riding lessons. From a young age, Bob was surrounded by horses, making it a natural part of his life.This early exposure laid the foundation for his future success in the horseracing world. He developed a deep connection with these magnificent animals and a passion that would drive him throughout his career.

Accomplishments that Define a Legend

Bob's list of achievements is truly remarkable. He amassed over $1.1 million in NRCHA earnings and earned a spot in the NRCHA Hall of Fame. He also won two World's Greatest Horseman titles and countless other victories.But it wasn't just about the titles and the money. His deep love for horses was evident in everything he did. Whether he was training, showing, or mentoring others, he always made sure to pass on his knowledge and love for horses to the next generation.

Following in Father's Footsteps: BJ Avila's Triumph

In 2019, BJ Avila, the son of Bob Avila, achieved a significant milestone. At the NRCHA Celebration of Champions, BJ and his horse Dera Cat clinched the Open Bridle World Championship.It was a tough competition with ten horses vying for the title. But BJ and Magnum's skills shone through, and they secured the leading position with a score of 428.5. This hard-fought victory filled BJ with a mix of pride and gratitude.For BJ, this win was the result of years of dedication and hard work, along with the guidance of his father. His horse, a skilled cutter and ropemaker, had been under his watch for three years.BJ explained, "His big deal is on a cow. He's a really good fence horse. He can run, he can cut really good, he's a three-event horse. I've shown him twice at the World's Greatest [Horseman] and just kind of had some bad luck in the roping and stuff. He's a very adrenaline-driven individual."This victory was a huge milestone for the Avila family, as BJ had grown up admiring his father's success in the equestrian community.

The Secret to Avila's Lasting Influence

Bob Avila was a prominent figure in the horse community with a decades-long track record. He was inducted into the Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and served as a respected judge for nearly two decades.Even in his 70s, after relocating from Temecula to Scottsdale after 18 years in California's hub, he remained actively involved in the horse industry he loved.His influence extended beyond horsemanship skills. He collaborated with Professionals Choice for over three decades to develop Bits and Spurs products and shared his expertise through books and instructional videos that became popular within the equestrian community.Bob's mentoring skills were unique. He guided riders like Todd Bergen and Andrea Fappani, helping them become skilled equestrians. His wisdom and expertise set him apart, and his impact will be remembered by the riders and instructors he guided and by future generations.Our thoughts are with his wife, Dana, and son, BJ, during this challenging time.