WCHA Meets With AQHA to Address Lip Chain Ban at Sanctioned Shows

July 22, 2015 – The World Conformation Horse Association (WCHA), the national sanctioning body for conformation horse competition, was well represented July 22 at the regular meeting of the American Quarter Horse Association’s (AQHA) Executive Committee.

At the meeting, the AQHA’s Executive Committee discussed the issue of banning the use of lip chains in halter horse competition at its sanctioned shows, as well as heard from WCHA representatives the growing concerns regarding the conformation horse segment of the American Quarter Horse industry.

Representing the WCHA was Luke Castle, Peter Cofrancesco, Wayne Halverson, and Ross Roark, who shared their concerns in particular regarding the ban of lip chains slated to begin in 2016.

“We all believe this was a very professional and productive meeting with the AQHA Executive Committee,” said Cofrancesco. “AQHA President Glenn Blodgett asked a number of thoughtful questions that were not only questions a veterinarian might ask, but the kind of questions the leader of an organization this size would be expected to ask.”

Cofrancesco said a very candid discussion was held regarding lip chains and potential alternatives that would address the safety concerns of halter horse exhibitors and still meet the AQHA’s standard for animal welfare. Both parties agreed to continue an open dialogue through the end of the AQHA Youth World Championship Show and then set another meeting to finalize their discussions.

The WCHA’s mission is to stimulate interest in and competitive opportunities for enthusiasts of the conformation horse, while protecting the integrity of the horse through responsible stewardship.