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Reversible Versatility Spur Rotates 360 Degrees

Jimmy Williams' original design makes popular holiday gift

SANTA MARIA, CALIF.— Different riders have different needs, even when it comes to something as simple and straightforward as a spur. The late, great Jimmy Williams taught hundreds of students how to ride performance horses during his lifetime, and he knew that each had unique spur requirements.

For example, taller or aggressive riders may require spurs that point inward and upward for quick, high-performance contact. On the other hand, a tall rider who wishes to avoid accidental spurring could make good use of upward-pointing spurs oriented toward the exterior. A shorter-legged rider, or a rider whose horse has sensitive sides, may desire spurs whose shanks point inward and down for a medium level of contact. And spurs whose shanks are directed downward and out provide the lowest level of contact, appropriate for beginning riders and for use on colts.

Because he didn't like so much equipment getting between his students and their horses, Jimmy wanted one spur that would work for everyone. Of course, such a piece of equipment didn't exist—so, as he often did when it came to training, Jimmy created his own solution.

Jimmy's new spur design featured a 360º rotating button band that allowed its wearer to make use of all four shank positions—up, down, in and out—with just one set of spurs! They could be worn in the normal position or upside down on the boot, which would orient the shank toward the interior and down. Or the spur could be switched to the opposite boot, directing the shank to the exterior in either the up or down position. And if a rider had a tendency to overuse one leg or a horse with one side that was more sensitive than the other, each spur could be positioned independently. It was an ingenious design. But, sadly, Jimmy never had the chance to share it with the public during his lifetime.

Susie Hutchinson, Jimmy's famous student and companion, knew that his primary goal had always been helping other riders be the best they could be. With that in mind, she called Les Vogt, a longtime friend and a bit and spur designer with more than 30 years of experience, to finally bring the Reversible Versatility Spur to horsepeople everywhere.

"She said, 'It's just too good not to share with the world,'" Les recalls.

Impressed by the design's adaptability, Les added the Reversible Versatility Spur to his Les Vogt's Performax line of premium bits and spurs. And Williams' enduring design, which is like no other on the market today, became an instant hit.

A truly unique gift idea, Jimmy's Reversible Versatility Spur not only recalls the creativity of a legendary horseman, but it also helps simplify any rider's collection of equipment. Now, thanks to Jimmy, there is no need to keep a rack full of spurs on hand. The Reversible Versatility Spur is perfect for all horsepeople, from the beginning or youth rider to the high-performance professional.

The Reversible Versatility Spur (item #1212) and other pieces in the Performax line are available at the best tack shops. You can also order online at www.LesVogt.com or call Les directly at (805) 455-0162.

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