Fate is a tricky thing to question, but you do in moments like these.

Our team is heartbroken to confirm the fire that occurred at Orth Ranch on the morning of Sunday, May 3rd. Eighteen horses were lost, one remains in critical condition, and sixteen survived. This is not a story we report from a distance; it is a loss we feel alongside them. We have had the privilege of working closely with these horses, they were our subject week in and week out.

If you have seen Steve Orth or Kolton Good at a horse show, roping, or futurity in the past six months (or followed them on social media) you know these great horses. This was their main barn, and anyone familiar with the industry understands what that means for a trainer, and the depth of this devastation.

Among the horses lost were the “hopefuls”. These young horses were slated to fill spots in the upcoming Old West Futurities horse sales. They were just setting up to make their mark on the industry. They would have provided the financial foundation nearly every trainer relies on to carry forward.

We know Steve Orth is capable of a comeback on his own; and we also know we won't let him do it alone. Western Media and friends of Orth Ranch will be organizing a benefit auction as well as this GoFundMe to help bridge the gap left by these horses and support the program as they rebuild. If you would like to contribute or donate please do.

Our thoughts are with Orth Ranch and everyone in the industry grieving alongside them. We ask the public and media to give them the space and time they need in the days ahead. This situation is under investigation, and Western Media will continue to provide updates.