Two APHA members are in the running to fill the APHA Executive Committee Sixth Member spot in 2018. Melanie Cox-Dayhuff of Indiana and Lee Ann Hall of Australia will be considered by the APHA Board of Directors for the position; voting takes place at the 2018 APHA Convention, March 2–5 in Irving, Texas.

the new NCEA National Championship format will include four Event titles in addition to the overall National Team title. Event rankings are determined at each head-to-head competition based on a variety of data points (Win/Loss; Home/Away; Current Rank of Opponent). The Event rankings may differ from the NCEA Team Rankings that are released every week throughout the season, as they are based solely on the results from the single event in the head-to-head meet.

Scholarships may be renewed for up to four years, provided recipients maintain high academic standards. Over the past 25 years, the APHF has awarded more than $900,000 in scholarships to more than 300 deserving students.

“The first step to becoming a full-carded AQHA judge can be through the Level 1 accreditation program,” said Patti Carter, AQHA senior director of judges. “Level 1 judges are able to judge AQHA Level 1 and Rookie classes then, with experience, these judges can progress to other types of accreditation, all-around, specialized or Versatility Ranch Horse.”

Studying equine science with a minor in public health and agricultural business, Michaels’ trip to Mexico didn’t involve horses, but instead working to change the lives of 55 kids. Joined by her father, the Orlando, Fla., product traveled with Sharing Smiles, an organization dedicated to helping children living with cleft lips and cleft palates. Teamed with five surgeons, two anesthesiologists, five nurses and 20 volunteers, Michaels spent five days in the town of Merida screening and prepping patients for surgery, updating parents on surgery progress, and even scrubbing in on surgeries.

The individuals selected as the 2018 judges are:

Joe Carter, St. George, Ontario
Bobby Lewis, Overbrook, Oklahoma
Bobby Hunt, Comfort, Texas
Debbie Cooper, Cave Creek, Arizona
Chele McGauley, Elm Grove, Louisiana
Chris Benedict, Weatherford, Texas
Buddy Fisher, Abilene, Texas
John Briggs, Pilot Point, Texas
Delena Doyle, Azle, Texas

“This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to learn more about AQHA’s judging procedures and what judges are looking for in these popular classes,” said Patti Carter, AQHA senior director of judges. “We’re pleased to offer this seminar to judge applicants and others who are interested in what it takes to be an AQHA judge or a better competitor.”

The Georgia Bulldogs have claimed the top spot despite a home loss to Auburn last week, holding a 6-1 record on the season. The Auburn Tigers and Texas A&M Aggies both move up to No. 2 and No. 3 following major road wins against ranked SEC opponents.

American Quarter Horse Youth Association members who turned 19 on or before December 31, 2017, have officially graduated out of AQHYA. Graduating members who upgrade to an AQHA membership are eligible to receive a four-year membership for the price of three years – plus, a $25 SmartPak giftcard. This offer is only valid until August 31, 2018.

2018 Indy Circuit- June 2-5, Newcastle, IN. Judges: Rob Meneely, Sharon Wellman, John Briggs, and Mark Russell
2018 IQHA State Show- June 7-10, New Castle, IN. Judges: Sandy Jirkovsky, Clay Cavinder, Suzy Jeane, and Kelley Stone