AMARILLO, Texas – Cathy Hanson of Fallbrook, received the 2017 Merle Wood Humanitarian Award from the American Quarter Horse Foundation, March 4, at the 2018 American Quarter Horse Association Convention in Jacksonville, Florida.

Established in 1997 in honor of the late Merle Wood, the award recognizes an individual who exemplifies an ethic of kindness and benevolence in providing opportunities for young people to be involved with the American quarter horse.

Hanson grew up with horses her entire life, learning from her father, Don Blazer. She competed as a youth and fell in love with the...