OUR STORY
AMANDA NICHOLSON & NEIL FAINT
Texas Star Performance Horses – From Conception to Competition
Founded in 2008, Texas Star Performance Horses (TSPH) is a family-run business built on the combined skills, experience, and passion of managing partners Amanda Nicholson and Neil Faint. With a strong family history in Stock Horses, Quarter Horses, and Performance Horses, and decades of competitive experience, TSPH is built on over 30 years of investment in quality breeding stock and proven horsemanship.
Amanda and Neil bring together lifelong passion, expertise, and innovative breeding practices to produce high-quality performance horses with a track record of success. But TSPH is more than just a breeding operation—we have developed a complete program to support riders at every stage of their journey. From personalised private lessons and immersive campdraft clinics to our signature Clinic Participants Campdraft events, we help riders build confidence, refine skills, and reach their competitive goals. In 2024 alone, we supported over 500 participants and managed 1,200 first-round runs at our four-day campdraft event.
Simply put: from conception to competition, TSPH has you covered.
Our Vision
At TSPH, we are committed to breeding exceptional performance horses with strong, proven bloodlines that excel in campdrafting, cutting, and performance disciplines. Our focus is on producing versatile, trainable horses that consistently perform at the highest levels, giving riders the tools to achieve their competitive ambitions.
Beyond breeding, we strive to build a thriving campdraft community through comprehensive education and support. From personalised lessons to immersive clinics and exclusive events, we create pathways for riders of all abilities to learn, grow, and succeed. By nurturing grassroots talent and encouraging lifelong learning, we aim to secure the future of the sport while inspiring the next generation of campdraft champions.
Our Mission
Our mission is to breed horses with heart, athleticism, and consistency, carefully matching bloodlines to meet the diverse needs of performance riders. Every foal is bred for success, backed by expert care and a commitment to quality that gives them the potential to become future champions.
Our mission also extends to developing riders. Through tailored training programs, clinics, lessons, and our Clinic Participants Campdraft, we provide supportive environments where riders can build confidence, sharpen skills, and connect with a like-minded community. Together, we work to grow campdrafting as an inclusive, vibrant sport, fostering lifelong partnerships between horse, rider, and community.
Who are we?
MEET THE TSPH TEAM
𝐍𝐞𝐢𝐥 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭 | Owner & Director
Neil Faint is the driving force behind the TSPH clinic program, bringing a lifetime of experience in horsemanship, cattle work, and competitive campdrafting. He leads the development of both horses and riders, offering structured, practical clinics and personalised guidance that help participants progress from grassroots levels to national competition.
Raised on a working property where mustering and rodeo were part of everyday life, Neil’s horsemanship began at a young age and has grown into a professional career centred on training, breeding, and mentoring. Known for his calm, clear instruction and deep understanding of horse behaviour, he helps riders not just improve—but achieve. His influence is evident across Australia in the success of countless campdrafters.
Neil is also an accomplished competitor and breeder. He has campaigned numerous horses to Open level, including the standout mare Turners Stud Flirt, with multiple wins and placings in Maiden, Novice, Restricted Open, and Open Campdrafts. A career highlight came in 2015 with 2nd place at the World Championship Campdraft in Sydney, an invitation-only event for the nation’s top 15 riders.
At TSPH, Neil oversees young horse starts, client horse education, stallion and broodmare management, and rider safety during clinics and events. He is also a respected judge for the ABCRA and ACA, regularly officiating at major events nationwide. With a strong background in Heritage Australian Stock Horses and a deep understanding of bloodlines, he guides the TSPH breeding program with strategic stallion selections and a long-term vision for producing versatile, high-performance horses.
Whether in the round yard, running a clinic, or mentoring from the sidelines, Neil brings practical wisdom, technical skill, and genuine passion for horsemanship to the TSPH community.
𝐀𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚 𝐍𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐬𝐨𝐧 | Owner & Director
Amanda Nicholson is the driving force behind Texas Star Performance Horses (TSPH), bringing decades of hands-on experience, leadership, and professionalism to every aspect of the business.
Born into the equine industry, Amanda has lived and breathed horses her entire life, with a particular focus on Stock Horses and Performance Horses. Her early years included active competition in Pony Club, Dressage, Show Jumping, and Campdrafting, laying the foundation for a lifelong career in the sport.
Today, Amanda oversees all TSPH operations—from event planning, cattle sourcing, and clinic coordination to financial management, rider bookings, and participant welfare. She works closely with the ABCRA to ensure all clinics and campdrafts run smoothly and meet industry standards. A skilled campdrafter herself, Amanda brings firsthand experience, precision, and an eye for detail to every project she undertakes.
Amanda also leads TSPH marketing and brand strategy, managing digital content, advertising campaigns, and building long-term partnerships with corporate supporters within the campdrafting community. Her professional background includes key roles with the AQHA and Landmark Operations Ltd, where she served as National Equine Administration Manager. At Landmark, she played a pivotal role in the Landmark Classic Campdraft Sale, Australia’s largest performance horse sale, overseeing catalogue design, event coordination, and national business planning.
Holding a Diploma of Agriculture, a Certificate in Advanced Equine Reproductive Management, and certification as an Artificial Insemination Technician, Amanda combines practical expertise with a passion for genetics. She has undertaken research in the U.S. into elite Performance Horse bloodlines, directly enhancing the breeding program at TSPH.
Whether managing the fine details behind the scenes or supporting riders from the arena fence, Amanda’s knowledge, calm leadership, and unwavering commitment are at the heart of Texas Star Performance Horses.
𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭 | Junior Rider & Clinic Support
Growing up at Texas Star Performance Horses, Annabelle Faint is already making her mark as a competitive junior campdrafter, admired for her natural talent, quiet confidence, and fearless approach in the arena.
As the daughter of TSPH directors Amanda and Neil, Annabelle has been immersed in horsemanship from a very young age, learning from two of the most experienced mentors in the industry. Her riding demonstrates maturity and precision beyond her years, with a sharp feel for cattle, excellent timing, and an instinctive connection to her horses. She approaches every challenge with focus and determination, quickly earning a reputation as one to watch in the junior ranks.
Annabelle’s growth extends beyond competition. She is an integral part of the TSPH team, contributing her energy and enthusiasm to clinics and events. Whether she’s helping reset pegs, encourage riders, manage equipment, or assist behind the scenes, her positivity and willingness to jump in wherever needed bring a genuine sense of fun, family, and community to every event. Her support helps create the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that TSPH is known for.
She also takes an active role in learning all aspects of horse management and event coordination, gaining skills in cattle handling, clinic organisation, and horsemanship education that will serve her as she progresses in her riding career.
Whether she’s in the saddle, supporting clinics, or cheering from the sidelines, Annabelle embodies the next generation of TSPH: talented, passionate, and deeply committed to the sport. Her journey is only beginning, but with her drive, skill, and love for campdrafting, it’s clear she is a rising star with a bright future ahead.
𝐀𝐬𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡 | Digital Content and Media Manager
Ashlee Roach plays a vital role behind the scenes at Texas Star Performance Horses (TSPH), blending creativity, digital expertise, and a genuine passion for campdrafting to shape the TSPH brand and connect with the wider equestrian community.
A competitive campdrafter and long-time clinic attendee, Ashlee brings a unique perspective, understanding TSPH from both the rider and operational sides. She manages all digital operations, including the website, social media, marketing campaigns, and visual branding, ensuring every message is professional, cohesive, and aligned with the core values of TSPH. Her work ensures that the TSPH story—our horses, riders, clinics, and events—is communicated with clarity, authenticity, and energy to inspire and engage our audience.
Beyond content creation, Ashlee is integral to partner and sponsor coordination, supporting the development and delivery of corporate partnerships that strengthen the TSPH brand and provide value to the wider campdrafting community. She oversees messaging, visibility, and activations for each partnership, ensuring professionalism and long-term engagement while fostering strong, lasting relationships.
Ashlee also contributes to event management and community engagement, helping plan clinic promotions, participant communications, and special initiatives that bring riders, families, and supporters together. Her creativity, organisational skill, and deep knowledge of the sport help TSPH maintain a strong presence both online and on the ground.
Whether she’s designing content, coordinating partnerships, managing campaigns, or cheering riders on from the sidelines, Ashlee brings dedication, insight, and professionalism to everything she does. Her creativity, attention to detail, and commitment to the sport make her an invaluable part of the TSPH team and family.
𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐬 | Event Support Crew
Behind every successful clinic and campdraft at Texas Star Performance Horses (TSPH) is a dedicated team of volunteers—the hardworking, humble legends who make our events possible. From pre-event planning to pack-down, our volunteers are the backbone of everything we do.
Their roles are diverse and essential: running cattle in the backyards, swinging gates, keeping everyone fed during long days, supporting admin behind the scenes, and even assisting with the delivery of corporate partnerships. Whether coordinating logistics, managing gear, or jumping in wherever needed, our volunteers bring reliability, good humour, and a can-do attitude to every task.
Some have been with us for years, becoming an integral part of the TSPH family. Others are friends, family, and local supporters who step in when it counts most. All of them contribute to the welcoming, inclusive environment that makes our clinics and events truly special. Their generosity of time, energy, and spirit is a defining part of what sets TSPH apart.
Volunteers also help us build and maintain relationships with our valued sponsors, assisting with on-site activations, setting up displays, and welcoming visiting partners. Their professionalism and positivity reflect the core values of TSPH and leave a lasting impression on everyone they meet.
We’re proud to see our volunteer crew representing TSPH in style, thanks to Grovers Country Clothing and Stripes Industrial Supplies. With quality gear and monogrammed uniforms, they’re not only capable—they’re the best dressed too!
To every volunteer who has contributed their time, energy, and heart: thank you. Your loyalty and dedication are at the heart of TSPH, and you are an essential part of our story.
OUR HEART AND PASSION
DREAM IT
We provide an exceptional buying experience, offering award-winning stallion breeding services and a premium selection of performance-bred young stock. Our horses combine talent, temperament, and quality, helping riders achieve their goals while promoting and sustaining the Australian equine industry on a global stage.
BUILD IT
At TSPH, we breed high-quality performance horses with proven bloodlines, specialising in campdrafting, cutting, reining, and ranch work. By combining elite genetics with expert handling and early training, we produce capable, reliable, and versatile horses that support the growth and success of the Australian equine industry.
GROW IT
We are passionate about developing skilled, confident, and safe riders. Through hands-on education, personalised coaching, and immersive experiences, we help riders refine their horsemanship, strengthen their partnership with their horse, and cultivate a lifelong love of equestrian sports.