Open Riders in Level 2 at 2015 AQHA World Show
![[photo credit: the Quarter Horse Journal]](https://www.showhorsetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Screen-Shot-2015-03-02-at-11.08.43-AM.png)
The American Quarter Horse Association has released the list of open exhibitors who are ineligible to show horses in Level 2 open classes at the 2015 AQHA World Championship Show, tentatively scheduled for November 6-21 in Oklahoma City. These exhibitors are the highest level of performers of the top 100 exhibitors based on points in individual classes over the past three years.
Junior, senior and all-ages classes are leveled by the horse’s record (with the exception of open halter and cattle classes, which are level by exhibitor record). For the 2015 AQHA World Show, the open division will be further leveled, as the horse’s exhibitor must also be eligible for the class per the riders list. This requirement only applies to open classes at the AQHA World Show; for all other AQHA shows, any exhibitor may show Level 2 horses.
“The goal of the riders list is to encourage exhibitors who have always had the dream to compete at the world level to do so in a competitive class,” said AQHA Chief Show Officer Pete Kyle, “By adding Level 2 championships to the AQHA World Show, more horses and competitors are recognized for their efforts in the arena.”
To read the full article on AQHA.com, click here.
I am happy to see this list, however, there are still so many out there that need to be added!! I understand how you arrived at the list and although not perfect, it is a good start. The names on the list are the best in the business and have open access to the best horses. Those of us owning and paying trainers do not stand a chance in the arena when they show up. This past week end in Waco, Tx I was surprised that my 4 y/o mare under training for 10 mo’s, had to compete against Cleve Wells and Adam Wainscott and Brad Ost etc. etc. This for Green WP OR JR. TR AND GR. WP JUST IS NOT A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD, at all. It is difficult to know where and when to go to a show and not have to compete with the SAME people at every show. It just is not fair!!
There are to many pro riders out there that need to be added to this list, they should be listed in all divisions not just one or two. The point at which these riders a showing at is pro and that should be the divisions allowed for them and the horses