The influence of Metallics MVP continues to show up in different arenas across the country, and one young mare is proving just how much promise his offspring carry, specifically in the roping arena. Metallic Hot Rose (Metallics MVP x Lil Hot Rosita, by Hottish), owned by Bobby Abernathy and ridden by Loni Yates this past Spring, turned heads with a standout performance at the Gold Buckle Futurities Spring Showdown.
Metallic Hot Rose took home over $43,000 at the event, finishing second in the Futurity Breakaway average and Stallion Incentive, sweeping the Intermediate and Intermediate Stallion Incentive, and placing in the Maturity Breakaway with another Intermediate sweep. It was an impressive display of talent, grit, and a sound mind – all hallmarks of her sire, Metallics MVP.
We sat down with both her owner, Bobby Abernathy, and her rider, Loni Yates, to talk about what makes this mare so special.
Q&A with Rider Loni Yates
What was your first impression of Metallic Hot Rose the first time you roped off of her and backed her into a box?
I was impressed, she scored great, and was super easy to spot the cattle out there for a great throw.
She had a huge finish at the Spring Showdown. What do you think made her so successful that week?
Honestly, the mare has such a kind eye and just wants to please. Being a four-year-old, I think that gave her a huge advantage at those futurities. She handled the pressure all week so well, and did the same thing every time. Her mind stayed together the entire show, and that really impresses me in a young horse because we ask so much of them.
How would you describe her feel compared to other horses you’ve swung a leg over?
She’s a very cute, short-necked, compact little mare, and that’s my favorite to rope on. She’s one of the best-minded colts I’ve ever rode. Quick-footed, can run, and always consistent. I’m excited to see where her future goes and what else she accomplishes.
Any thoughts on what’s next?
I’m super excited to get a chance to ride her again this fall. Maybe Bobby and I can get together and I can run a few practice calves on her before the next Futurity. I’m also really looking forward to the possibility of riding more Metallics MVPs, I’ve really enjoyed the feel of this little mare.
Q&A with Owner Bobby Abernathy
What first drew you to Metallic Hot Rose when you purchased her?
My friend Ty Smith at Solo Select had the horse in their Solo Select Sale. Clay Logan had been heeling on her, and when I called to ask for a good one, he said she was the one. There was only a minute left on the clock when I clicked and bid on her- and we won.
What was it like watching her at the Spring Showdown with Loni Yates, especially with such a big payday?
Loni ropes great, and I had her ride because she could get into the Intermediate side pot at the Gold Buckle. I drove up the day before and let her run some in the practice pen, and it went well. The next day she rode her in the 4-and-under and it went awesome, the mare handled it so well. We won big, so I asked if she wanted to enter the 6-and-under too. She was all for it, and we ended up winning good there as well. For a four-year-old mare to hang with the six-year-olds, that says a lot. By the time she left the house and came home, she had run 17 calves, and handled it like a seasoned horse. That says everything about her.
What are Metallic Hot Rose’s best qualities — in and out of the arena?
Her demeanor. She’s always been cool, goes with the flow, and takes everything we throw at her. I bought her when she was three, and my 7-year-old daughter rode her around, roped the sled, trotted her through the barrels, and tracked calves at rodeos on her. For a three-year-old to handle all that, it really shows her mind.
As her owner, what excites you most about her future?
I think this mare is just getting started. She has what it takes to be a good futurity horse, but I also think she’s good enough to be a next-level breakaway or tie-down horse, really, any event you throw at her. We have high hopes for what’s coming.
Carrying on the MVP Legacy
Metallic Hot Rose is proving to be more than just a talented futurity mare, she’s an example of the mind, athleticism, and heart that Metallics MVP is passing on to his foals. From holding her own against older horses, to showing the consistency and calmness, she embodies the sound mind and raw talent that MVP offspring are becoming known for.
In great hands, with a bright career ahead, and the kind of foundation that sets her apart, Metallic Hot Rose is one more reason the industry is taking notice of Metallics MVP’s impact as a sire.
