“An AQHA high-point award is evidence of exhibitors’ and horses’ yearlong commitments to excellence in the show pen,” said AQHA Chief Show Officer Pete Kyle. “To win one of these awards is no easy feat, and congratulations to all on this tremendous accomplishment.”

In 2015, the Hylton Maiden 3-Year-Old and Over Western Pleasure paid out more money than any similar futurity class, a whopping $91,500. This year, $50,000 in added money will be put into the jackpot, making it a can’t-miss event for those looking to start the futurity season with a bang.

Making its return is the always popular Equine Chronicle Novice 3 and Over Western Pleasure Slot class, which will present a whopping $15,000 check to the winner on Friday. On Saturday, the new Coughlin Automotive Maiden 3 and Over Western Pleasure Slot class will also award $15,000 to the winner!

Seven full page ads in The Equine Chronicle will be presented to the High Point winners in Open, Amateur, Select, Novice Amateur, Novice Youth, 13 and under, and 14-18 divisions. Competitors must show in their respective division Halter classes to qualify for High Point.

“We had the largest EWD show in the nation last year, and we are expecting more entries this year. We already have participants from Texas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Mississippi who have made stall reservations and are planning to attend.”

The 2016 Sun and Surf will host six AQHA shows over four days with judges to include Scott Neuman, Kelly Chapman, Brad Kearns, Sissy Anderson, Pierre Briere, and Steve Meadows.