Chics Magic Potion (Smart Chic Olena x Remedys Magic Potion x Remedys Reply), the only horse to join the NRCHA Hall of Fame in 2016, left an indelible mark as a performer. Bred by Kim Muehlstaetter of Scottsdale, Arizona, and owned by Ken and Laina Banks, Schulenburg, Texas, “Magic” enjoyed a long stint as the NRCHA’s number-one money earning horse.

The 2000 stallion entered the training program of NRCHA Hall of Fame Horseman and Million Dollar Rider Bob Avila, Temecula, California, as a late 2-year-old. The colt, who Avila described as an “ugly duckling,” progressed steadily in training and quickly proved his mettle in the competitive arena.

In a six-year period from August, 2003 through June, 2009, Bob and Magic showed in just 13 NRCHA events, collecting titles including the 2003 Snaffle Bit Futurity Open Championship; the 2005 Hackamore Classic Championship; and the 2009 Reserve World’s Greatest Horseman. Magic’s lifetime NRCHA earnings totaled $246,705. With his National Reining Horse Association and American Quarter Horse Association money, he banked more than $318,000.

Magic retired in 2009. He enjoyed three-and-a-half years of relaxation with Avila, branding calves and serving as a reined cow horse ambassador at various demonstrations.

Sadly, Magic’s life was cut short. He took a bad step during a fence work demo at the 2012 National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nevada, breaking a front leg above the knee. The damage was irreparable. Despite the void created by the stallion’s untimely death, Avila said Hall of Fame status is a fitting memorial to an unforgettable performer.