INCENTIVES: Riata, Royal Crown

Playen Spades has been a star for John and Kay Coltharp’s 3C Performance Horses for more than a decade. 

An own son of the legendary Playgun, a sire of earners of more than $10 million, Gunner has earned 89.5 points in both heading and heeling, and he has lifetime earnings of $120,000.

Both Coltharps have ridden Gunner to the pay window and he continues to compete with their veterinarian, Dr. Matt Imel with a trip to the 2025 World Series Team Roping Finale in December.

With a great mind to complement his athleticism and cow sense, Gunner is equally adept as a helper horse for pro ropers or carrying low-numbered ropers.

“He’s the coolest dude,” Kay said. “When the pros had him, he could be tied up amongst the mares and he was a perfect gentleman.”

With progeny like JKC Playen Lectric, a multiple arena record setter and futurity winner, and JKC Smart Playen Sis, who finished in the top 10 of the 2024 ARHFA World Champion Heeling Futurity, Gunner is passing his best attributes to the next generation.

“He is a really nice horse and his foals are intelligent,” Kay said. “He definitely puts bone and height on them.”