Nine Reasons to Qualify For 2020 AQHA Youth World

AQHA Publicity

Whether they competed three years ago or 30, former AQHYA exhibitors will tell you that competing at the Built Ford Tough AQHYA World Championship Show was one of the most influential experiences in their lives.

Why is that?

1. You’ll build lifelong friendships with fellow youth. Everyone at the Ford Youth World is in the beginning stages of their successful show careers, and it’s exciting to think the friends you make from across the country – and around the world – are the same friends you’ll see for decades to come.
2. This is the chance to win one for your horse. He’s your friend, your confidant and your teammate – so this one’s for him! Qualify for the Ford Youth World, and he’ll have a prestigious designation added to his permanent AQHA record.
3. Meet your peers from around the world. As an international organization, AQHYA brings members together from all over the world. There are fun events throughout the Ford Youth World, so you’ll have a multitude of chances to make new friends. Last year, youth members attended from 43 states, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, Denmark and Poland.
4. Get the chance to become a 13-&-Under world champion in one or all of the seven core classes. Level 3 13-&-Under core classes are available for exhibitors. Exhibitors can qualify to compete in Level 3 13-&-Under western pleasure, hunter under saddle, horsemanship, hunt seat equitation, showmanship, ranch riding and trail.
5. Become a Level 2 youth champion in your event. The AQHYA  Level 2 Championships, presented by Adequan® (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan), are held concurrently with the Ford Youth World. Adequan® Level 2 youth classes are another opportunity for AQHYA competitors to write their name in history as a champion.
6. Sport some swag. The Ford Youth World qualifiers can order special items, like a qualifier jacket, buckle and more. Shop online at www.aqhstore.com.
7. Be part of an exclusive group. Once you qualify, you’ll join the elite group that has qualified to compete at this year’s show. Share your accomplishment on social media with #AQHYAWorld, letting everyone know you’re headed to the 2020 Ford Youth World.
8. It’s the trip of a lifetime. Not only will you remember the life-changing performances you put in with your horse, but the memories you make with your horse-showing friends and family are some that you’ll cherish for years.
9. Learn from top professionals. AQHA Professional Horsemen help out during the show, serving as clinicians for the free Nutrena Ride the Pattern clinics. Come meet some of your idols and learn from them. Professional Horsemen will also be available to answer questions and give advice at the Ask-A-Pro booth, located in the Super Barn.

So how can you qualify for the 2020 Ford Youth World?

• Check the points required to nationally qualify in your class(es). The deadline to qualify is April 30, 2020.
• Find shows to attend between now and then by using the online AQHA Event Calendar at www.aqha.com/events.
• Check your points by signing into AQHA.com. Click on Showing, and then select World Show Qualifying Points to see if you’ve qualified.
• Aside from earning points to nationally qualify, you might be able to qualify through your state, international or provincial affiliate. Contact information is listed at www.aqha.com/affiliates.
• If you need additional assistance verifying your qualifying points, contactworldshow@aqha.org.
• The Ford Youth World is July 30 – August 8 in Oklahoma City. If you’re in search of more Ford Youth World information, your go-to place is www.aqha.com/youthworld.

About the Sponsor

Ford Motor Co. is the title sponsor of the Ford Youth World. Ford has been an AQHA partner since 2002. Remember the next time you buy, to buy Built Ford Tough.

AQHA News and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more news and information, follow @AQHA on Twitter and visit www.aqha.com/news.