INCENTIVES: Riata, Royal Crown

Bet Hesa Freckledcat was the “Answer” to a prayer for his owners John and Kay Coltharp. After tragically losing their son Caden at just 16 years old, the Coltharps hoped for a red colt out of their all-around mare Angel, MS Freckled Star. Angel delivered Answer, by Bet Hesa Cat, on the same day they had adopted their son years before.

Answer has proven a versatile winner, with earnings in the NRCHA and the roping arena. Along with a performance Register of Merit, Answer has banked over $423,000 lifetime, carrying pro ropers and both of his owners.

“We’re older and we love our horses but we want to ride them,” Kay explained. “Answer takes very good care of us but he’s so versatile a pro can get on him and win too.”

Answer is passing on both his physical attributes and his kind demeanor to his offspring. JKC Answers Ruby earned $90,000 in 2025 and full sister, JKC Answers Faith, was right on her heels, both ridden by Kaleb Asay.

“He has all the tools, the athleticism and he’s built right, but the best thing about him is his personality,” Kay said. “The mind means so much to us in these horses … they have to be trainable.”