AQHA “Shows” Vision Beyond the Show Ring
The AQHA Show Council develops a mission and vision statement and AQHA members are encouraged to periodically visit www.aqha.com/showing to see the most up-to-date information concerning AQHA-approved shows.
Exciting things are happening at the American Quarter Horse Association, with some of the largest and most prestigious horse shows of the year being celebrated. Without AQHA-approved shows, the chance to qualify and compete at an AQHA world championship show or Level 1 (Novice) championship would not be available. As part of AQHA’s continuing effort to reinvent its showing model, earlier this year, the AQHA Show Council and Executive Committee established an AQHA show mission and vision statement.
“We know people love showing their American Quarter Horses and have a passion for this great breed,” said AQHA Executive Director of Shows and Judges Pete Kyle. “By creating a mission and vision statement for AQHA shows, the Show Council is able to create and uphold a high standard for the industry and let exhibitors know what to expect when they attend an AQHA show. Our goal is to create the best experience for our exhibitors no matter the country, show or size of the show. The new AQHA show mission and vision statements help give our shows purpose and direction while conveying where the Association wants to move with its showing model.”
To read the full article on AQHA.com, click here.
Hello Pete,
Putnam Quarter horses has been in business for over 50 years. We have competed in every event. We have put on a lot of shows, and our entire family show horses. I have two sons that are professional trainers (Darren, and Douglas)
I think the ONE thing that is hurting the shows is NO PAYBACK>
We used to win at least part of our entries back, but now we have no chance for that to happen. Our customers used to get a trophy….now they have to buy them. What do they have to show and brag about if they don’t get some kind of award. It does not mean much to you or me, as we show for points. But…our beginners, and people we want to get into the association, do not care about that. They want something they can sit on the mantle and look at. I know it is getting really expensive for show management to put on a show, but what about the exhibitors? Multiple judges are ok for big shows, but we need to get back to the local shows, and maybe even have some outside to save the expense of renting an indoor. Have a two day show…one day for the pleasure, trail, sah, hs, halter. THe next day for the other events. Then people would only have to stay one day, and save the stall fees(or reduce them), and the expense of their having to stay overnight. All I know is that we have to do something to save this wreck we are in. If I can help in any way, I would be glad to donate my time.
Sincerely,
Marlene Putnam
I am smiling as I type my response to the formation of the AQHA Show Council. AQHA is stating to move in the right direction and I am happy to see that they are doing such. Listening to the Membership and asking for ideas is the right thing to do!