Barnett named manager of Hunt Horse Complex

Dale T. Barnett has been named manager of the Hunt Horse Complex at the N.C. State Fairgrounds, effective Dec. 10.

Barnett was equine program coordinator at Murray State University in Kentucky since 2004. During his career, he also has been a faculty member at Midway College in Kentucky, show manager for the Texas Quarter Horse Association and manager of the Equine Educational Unit at N.C. State University’s Department of Animal Science.

“Dale is a true horseman who has a tremendous understanding of the industry, both in North Carolina and around the country,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “We’re looking forward to his leadership of the Hunt Horse Complex.”

The facility plays host to 90 horse shows and meetings a year, including the N.C. State Fair Horse Show, one of the largest all-breed shows in the country.

Barnett is a life member and carded judge of the American Paint Horse Association. Other memberships include the American Quarter Horse Association, American Ranch Horse Association and the Equine Science Society. He is a former president of the National Horse Judging Team Coaches’ Association.

A Tennessee native, Barnett holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Middle Tennessee State University. He holds a master’s degree in animal science from the University of Kentucky.