**Fort Worth, Texas **- The 2025 NRCHA Open Two Rein World Championship belonged to CR Dainty N Tuff, the flashy Woody Be Tuff gelding who left no doubt about his dominance in the show pen. With NRCHA Futurity Champion Lee Deacon in the saddle, the duo delivered a commanding performance, clinching the world title by an impressive 8.5-point margin—a decisive statement of the gelding’s talent and undeniable presence.
Lee Deacon & "Wilbur" - Photo Elite Equine Promotions
Bred by Center Ranch and owned by Lee Ann McDaniel, the striking sorrel gelding—known as Wilbur—has now earned over $100,000 in NRCHA competition, proving the strength of his pedigree and the relentless work ethic that defines great reined cow horses.
Sired by and out of Dainty Dual Rey (Dual Rey), Wilbur has it all—intelligence, cow sense, and explosive power. His signature white markings make him impossible to miss, but it’s his monster stop, precision, and feel for a cow that make him a true standout.
“He’s just been that kind of horse that gets your attention when you step into the pen,” said trainer Lee Deacon. “As long as I do my job, he gives you a chance to win every time. I’m extremely grateful. I’m grateful to have that horse and grateful that he’s getting the recognition he deserves.”
CR Dainty N Tuff was foaled and raised under the care of Maria Gutierrez during her time at Center Ranch. Gutierrez, who also cared for his sire, Woody Be Tuff, played a key role in Wilbur’s early years, helping lay the foundation for the world-class competitor he is today. She now serves as the resident mare manager at Solo Select, continuing her work with top-tier horses.
From the start, Gutierrez had a special connection with the flashy gelding, even giving him his barn name, Wilbur. “He was one of those colts that just stood out,” Gutierrez said. “There was something about him—he had this presence, this intelligence, even as a baby. When Cayley Wilson came to look at horses, Wilbur was the one I kept coming back to. Watching him go on to win at this level, it’s incredibly special. He always had that ‘it’ factor.”
Lee Ann McDaniel has owned the gelding his entire career, which began under the expert guidance of trainer Cayley Wilson. Wilbur went to Lee Deacon as a four-year-old, and he has campaigned him ever since.
Now surpassing $13 million in progeny earnings, Woody Be Tuff continues to produce champions across cutting, reined cow horse, and roping. Wilbur’s world championship is just the latest testament to his sire’s ability to consistently produce elite-level athletes.
With an 8.5-point lead on the field, Wilbur didn’t just win—he dominated. His performance was a masterclass in talent, grit, and sheer ability, further proving that when it comes to producing top-tier competitors, Woody Be Tuff remains “The Ultimate Outcross.”
**Woody Be Tuff is nearly booked full for 2025. You can secure your breeding here. **
