The Divisions

No matter what your level of expertise, if you have the desire to compete, the American Quarter Horse Association has structured shows and show divisions to ensure everyone has an even chance to compete and succeed no matter what your age, experience or area of expertise. Novice: The novice program was established to introduce exhibitors to AQHA approved shows and allow them to compete with others with similar skills in youth and amateur divisions. To be eligible, an exhibitor cannot have earned a combined total of 10 or more performance points in any other division. Exhibitors can no longer compete as a novice after they has earned 40 novice points. Youth: The American Quarter Horse Youth Association (AQHYA) is open to American Quarter Horses enthusiasts 10 years of age or younger as of January 1st. The AQHYA shows normally as scheduled in conjunction with AQHA approved shows. Virtually all types of classes are offered to youth exhibitors. Amateur: American Quarter Horse owners who do not join the professional ranks may enjoy a full spectrum of competition in the amateur division. You may obtain an amateur membership if you are no longer eligible for youth competitiion, and if you have have not shown, trained or assisted in training a horse for payment, either directly or indirectly, during the previous five calendar years. Open: Anyone possessing a current AQHA or AQHYA membership may show their American Quarter Horse in open competition. Although usually for the most experienced competitors, many amateur and youth are serious enough competitors in open classes. Open classes can be divided according to the age of the horse: Junior Horses (5 years or under) and Senior Horses (6 year of age or older). Amateur exhibitors must meet the ownership requirements even if they are competing in an open class. A youth can show another person's horse in the open division; however, this could jeopardise their amateur status. Senior (50 & over): AQHA approved shows may offer up to three amateur performance classes as all-age and 50 and over. These classes are designed to provide competition to the more mature amateur exhibitors.

 

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