Debra Jones-Wright is an AQHA, NSBA, and NRHA judge, accomplished trainer, and nationally recognized clinician with more than 35 years of experience across all-around and ranch disciplines. Known for her fairness, professionalism, and practical approach, she is widely respected for developing confident riders and well-rounded horses.

Based in Abbeville, South Carolina, Debra has built a long-standing career in both judging and training across AQHA, NSBA, NRHA, and collegiate equestrian programs.

She has officiated at major national events, including IHSA, IEA, YEDA, and NCEA National Championships, where she was selected to judge all Western divisions—highlighting her broad expertise and trusted reputation.

Her experience across multiple disciplines allows her to bring a well-rounded, practical perspective to both the show pen and the clinic environment.

Debra operates New Beginning Performance Horses and Cattle Co., where she focuses on developing functional, competitive horses and confident riders.

Areas of specialization include:

• Ranch Riding

• Ranch Trail

• All-Around events (Showmanship, Horsemanship, Equitation, Trail)

• Youth, Amateur, and Collegiate riders

• Rider development and skill progression

Her program emphasizes correctness, usability, and real-world horsemanship that translates directly to show pen success.

Debra is known for a practical, fundamentals-driven approach that prioritizes clarity and effectiveness.

Key principles include:

• Correct fundamentals and functional movement

• Forward, purposeful riding

• Clear, confidence-building instruction

• Developing both horse and rider together

Her ability to simplify complex maneuvers helps riders build confidence while improving performance.

As a multi-carded judge, Debra brings valuable insight into what defines a successful performance.

She is known for:

• Fair, consistent, and exhibitor-friendly judging

• Precision in evaluating both horse and rider

• A strong foundation in ranch and all-around standards

• Supporting rider development through clarity and professionalism

Her judging and teaching are both rooted in correctness, integrity, and practical horsemanship.

• AQHA, NSBA, and NRHA Judge

• Selected judge for IHSA, IEA, YEDA, and NCEA National Championships

• Judged all Western divisions at the national level

• 35+ years of experience in training, judging, and program development

• Nationally recognized clinician in ranch and all-around disciplines

Debra is widely respected for her integrity, knowledge, and ability to connect with riders.

She is known as:

• A fair and consistent judge

• A detail-oriented and practical horsewoman

• A clear and effective communicator

• A clinician who builds confidence and skill at every level

Her influence continues to shape riders across ranch and all-around disciplines through both judging and education.