For mother-daughter duo, Cass and Taylor Dawson, what began as a shared hobby in the horse industry has transformed into a rewarding journey of developing skills, building bonds, and pursuing passions. A central part of that journey was Chics Dig it +//, a 17-year-old Half-Arabian with an impressive show record and huge heart. Chics Dig It +//, affectionately known as Lucky or Lucky Duck, joined the Dawson family in 2021, and has since shaped both Cass and Taylor’s riding careers in ways they never expected.  

Long before stepping into the Dawson’s barn, Lucky had already established himself as a standout competitor. Bred by Jessica and David Bein, the gelding built an impressive resume under his previous owner, Molly Thigpen. Together they attended the Youth Nationals in July of 2020, where they secured National Champion HA/AA in the Western Trail Horse JTR 14-18 and again in the English Trail JTR 18 & under. 

Cass had known Lucky for years through her time training and friendship with Jessica Bein and had followed his progress closely. When Molly left for college, Cass felt a pull she couldn’t ignore. It was time to bring Lucky home.  

“It was intimidating to take Lucky on and welcome him into the family because he had a very successful previous career,” said Cass. “I feel very blessed to have the opportunity, and their trust in letting him become a part of our family.” 

Around the same time, Taylor, who had ridden throughout her youth but stepped away during college, felt the desire to return to the sport. There seemed no better partner for her comeback than her mother’s new well-loved horse. Taylor began showing in reining with Lucky, quickly proving themselves to be a successful team and the first time Taylor and Lucky entered the trail arena they walked out with a national championship title at the US National Championships. 

For Cass, sharing Lucky with her daughter has been one of the most meaningful chapters of her riding story.  

“Being able to connect with Taylor in this way has been incredibly special,” Cass said. “As a mom, I just feel as if I did the right thing asking her to ride him. It has been wonderful to share him, and we both feel like this is our horse.”  

Lucky’s list of accolades doesn’t end with his and Taylor’s achievements. Cass and Lucky also attended the US National Championship in 2025, where they earned two national championship titles and two reserve titles across the Ranch Riding and Western Trail divisions. 

The duo is currently attending the 2026 Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, where they have and will continue to compete in the western trail classes and horsemanship. Earlier this week, Taylor and Lucky secured reserve champion honors and hope to add more ribbons to their collection from Scottsdale. Later in the week, Cass will take the reins again as she and Lucky step into the ranch riding classes. 

Scottsdale represents an exciting opportunity for the Dawsons to compete among some of the best in the Arabian breed. “Here, I have the opportunity to get comfortable showing at this level and am able to test myself,” Cass said. “We’re able to compete against more exhibitors, in more classes, and immerse ourselves in a tight knit community.” 

One of the things the mother-daughter team loves most about Scottsdale is the chance to highlight the Arabian breed to those attending the show, whether that be competitors or spectators. Lucky thrives in the spotlight and loves meeting new people. 

“He’s got his own little fan club,” Cass said. “Just the other day, I watched a young girl drag her grandparents across the ring to come pet Lucky. He just stood there and let her love all over him. He really loves to be scratched.” 

When he’s not showing, Lucky spends his time at home with Cass and her other horse, Timer.  

“It’s so comforting for my soul to have him home,” she said. “I love to go out to his paddock and stand and talk with him. It truly is ‘to know Lucky is to love him.’” 

Taylor also loves coming to her mother’s house simply to spend time with Lucky. “Taylor can come over anytime,” Cass said. “She’ll just connect with him, build that trust, and then spoil him after.” 

Her days are always brighter when she gets to bond with Lucky and Timer, whether they’re riding, showing, or just relaxing together at home in the field. 

“He is a super gelding with an amazing personality,” said Cass. “I wouldn’t change anything about him. He is so empathetic and has so much love to give.”