There are generally six to 16 obstacles in any given trail challenge, depending on the land and terrain of the host location. A judge or judges (determined by the amount of obstacles) are located throughout the course evaluating a rider’s ability to maneuver his horse through the obstacle. Each horse-and-rider team starts out with a value of 70 and then gains or loses points, depending on their ability to navigate the course. The horse and rider (partnership) with the highest overall value is declared the trail challenge winner in each division.

New for 2016, a single online form is your one-stop shop for all your application and eligibility needs; apply for your Amateur, Novice Amateur, and Walk-Trot cards via this easy form. Remember, to qualify to compete in Amateur Walk-Trot classes at the World Show, exhibitors must hold a current Amateur Walk-Trot card prior to July 31 of the World Show year.

New Event: The very first Stars & Stripes Summer Spectacular will be held on Tuesday, June 28th. The Stars & Stripes Summer Spectacular is a specialty event featuring 22 classes specifically for equestrians with disabilities. This event is open to all breeds of horses. Exhibitors must be a member of either ApHC or APHA to compete. Those exhibitors wishing to compete for NSBA awards must also be NSBA members.

“These shows are the best way for exhibitors to get their feet wet in AQHA championship shows,” said Charlie Hemphill, AQHA senior director of shows and new events. “The shows also give Level 1 exhibitors who place in the top 10 in a Level 1 class the opportunity to qualify for the AQHA Level 1 Championships in 2017.”

“It’s critically important to the future of the horse community to focus on welcoming new participants,” Time to Ride Spokesperson Patti Colbert said. “The Challenge gives rewards and recognition to hardworking horse professionals who are doing the valuable work of teaching new people the very basics and giving them a path to grow into lifelong equestrians.”

Four Paints ended up in the Top 10 of the prestigious Open Classic Finals with impressive scores exceeding 226.5. According to show management, approximately one-third of all horses showing this year were Paint-bred, most of which were already registered through APHA.