The AQHA Professional Horseman and judge grew up watching Roy Rogers in Macon, Georgia. He first took interest in the American Quarter Horse when he was 14 and was looking to raise a horse himself.

"My interest all along is to be able to produce and raise my own champions," Benham said. "For 40 plus years, we've been able to go out into our own pastures and get a winner."

The AQHA lifetime member is a man of his convictions. His diversity reflects as a horseman as well. He offers training at his Georgia operation in many disciplines, including English, horsemanship, halter and reining. Stewart's breeding program has allowed him to produce horses that have the conformation, eye appeal and athletic ability to win in halter classes and performance classes.
He is a member of the AQHA Alliance organizations the National Cutting Horse Association and the National Reined Cow Horse Association. Stewart not only judges AQHA shows but also holds his judges card in the Palomino Horse Breeders of America. Stewart and his wife, Louise, have made their horse business a family affair. Louise is the family photographer and does all of the advertising for their farm. His daughter, Louise Stewart Wilcox, also shows horses.
"I've been riding for years, but my daughter can ride circles around me," Stewart laughed. A 40-year-old passion for excellence has driven Stewart to his success in the Quarter Horse industry thus far, and his continued belief in the next great horse ensures his dedication for years to come. "Breeders never give up because the world
champion is always in the next crop. That keeps me going and keeps me
involved.
Benham and Louise Stewart

 

 

 

Today, Stewart resides 100 miles southeast of Macon in Glenwood, Georgia, where he operates his family's sixth generation farm and timber operation, Singing Pines Plantation. He stays busy nearly year-round working with his horses but credits his spiritual dedication for the success he has had inside and out of the arena.

"We eat, sleep and talk horses, but my true passion is the Lord," Stewart stressed.
Stewart has spent the past four decades striving to produce and raise the perfect Quarter Horse. He has spent the past 30 years as a judge for the organization he has grown to love.

"I wanted to contribute to an industry that I thought had a lot of potential,' Stewart Said. "I've met a lot of people through the years, and I love the challenge of finding that next great champion in each colt crop."

The native Georgian believes in the diversity of the Quarter Horse and views the greatest challenge in the industry as being able to raise your own champion. "Today is a day of specialization, but my goal has always been to produce horses that can compete in a number of classes, " Stewart said. "I want horses that can win in hunter under saddle, trail, heading or heeling."