3 New 2018 APHA Performance Rules Go Into Effect April 1st

Three new performance rules were passed with early implementation by the Board of Directors at the 2018 APHA Convention in Irving, Texas. All three rules reach a wide range of exhibitors, including those in Mexico and Europe. By putting SC-320 and YP-080 into effect early this year, the Board of Directors and APHA hope to see an international increase in Paint Horse registrations and show entries.

Youth and Amateur exhibitors will be excited to learn of the new Performance Halter opportunities they’re being given this year as well. With only one year of approval as an APHA event, Performance Halter has grown in popularity at Paint Horse shows around the globe.

The following rules will be effective April 1, 2018; full rule verbiage will be included in the 2018 APHA Rule Book, available online at apha.com/forms/rule-books:

• SC-320 – Calas and Colas
  Calas (Mexican-style reining) and Colas (tailing of the bull) are events held in Mexico with rules provided by the Federacion Mexicana de Charreria (FMCH). 
  • These two events can be held as a special event or can be utilized as a performance event for show approval and will receive recognition of APHA year-end awards in Zone 13 (Mexico) only.
  • Classes may be offered in all divisions (Open, Amateur, Novice Amateur, Youth, Novice Youth) and for both the Regular Registry and Solid Paint-Bred horses.

• AM-090 & YP-085
  Adds Amateur and Youth Performance Halter. Horses must complete a minimum of one performance class, other than showmanship, at the same show or contest to be eligible. 
  • Amateur class options
    • Mares, Geldings or Stallions
      • Ages: All ages, Junior (2 & Under) or Senior (3 & Over)
  • Youth class options
    • Mares or Geldings
      • Ages: All ages, Junior (2 & Under) or Senior (3 & Over)

This rule also adds Grand and Reserve Champion Mare and Gelding opportunities for Youth and Youth Solid Paint-Bred halter classes (same rules as Amateur Grand and Reserve Champion Mare & Gelding apply).

• YP-080
  Allows 13 & Under youth exhibitors in Zones 12, 13 & 14 (Europe, South America, Mexico, Australia, New Caledonia and New Zealand) to show two-handed in a snaffle bit or hackamore regardless of the age of the horse.

Questions? Contact APHA Director of Shows Amanda Cormack at acormack@apha.com.

APHA also recently released the news that two 2018 registration-based rule changes have been approved and are now in effect. 

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