The Time to Ride program—designed to encourage introductions between newcomers and horses through horse business incentives—has already helped nearly 25,000 people experience horses for the first time. More than 1,000 events held by 216 hosts took place during last year’s competition.

“After the tremendous turnout last year, I’m excited to add the yearling futurity to the halter classes. We have some new and exciting things in store for 2017,” said Jennifer Sheriff. “One of our goals with a total of twelve futurity classes (six Limited Open & six Non-Pro) is to promote and reward the Non-Pro Owner/Exhibitor. Also, we hope to gain the color breeds this year with the date change of the APHA World Show. Top color breeds will have additional bonuses and prizes.”

The 2017 event will take place at the Jacobson Center at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Judges for the show will be Andrea Simons, Suzy Jeane, John Kunkle, Jill Newcomb, Murray Griggs, and David Denniston

For the second consecutive year, the per-point value for APHA’s Breeders’ Trust program has increased. Each Open & Amateur point earned by participating horses in 2016 is worth $8.30—an increase of almost 9.5% (45 cents) over 2015 values.

“Our goal is to bring together an excellent roster of judges for the Level 1 Championships,” said Pete Kyle, AQHA chief show officer. “It is important for exhibitors to know they are being judged by the rules and by a highly qualified group of judges at each show.”

“No matter the events you compete in, after attending one of these seminars, you will make adjustments in how you exhibit your horse and/or yourself,” Carter said. “You’ll be surprised to find that minor changes that make you think like a judge can make a significant difference in your final placing.”

Gather with fellow members while expressing your association desires. Have your opinion heard and be a part of the decision process for your association. The Year-End Awards Banquet and Hall of Fame Inductee Banquet will be held in conjunction with this event – be sure to attend, it will be a great time! Click here for a complete schedule.

“These shows are the best way for exhibitors to get their feet wet in AQHA championship shows,” said Charlie Hemphill, AQHA director of shows and new events. “The shows also give Level 1 exhibitors who place in the top 10 in any class the opportunity to qualify for the AQHA Level 1 Championships in 2018.”

REMINDER: Ohio Points for Level 2 and Level 3 Classes:
Level 3 Class-
Year End Awards and Team Points will be based off the combined Level 2 and Level 3 Judges Card. (If the Level 2 exhibitor places on the Level 3 judges card, Level 2 exhibitor will receive points in both the Level 3 and Level 2 classes). The Level 3 class will count towards the Year End All Around Awards. Points will be based on the total number shown in the Level 3 class (which is the combination of total number shown in the Level 2 and Level 3 class combined).

This year, colorful Paint Horse program alumni also have the opportunity to vie for APHA-sponsored trophy belt buckles, awarded to the highest-placing Paint Horse in the Legends of Ranching Maturity Horse Show. The show includes ranch riding and working cow horse classes, with both non-pro and open divisions available.