Mountain Trail includes boulders, trees, walls, water and bridges (some that move). These courses and obstacles do require proper engineering and inspection for IMTCA Certification, which is key for both horse and rider safety.

“I am so grateful to be selected for Team USA and to be surrounded by some of the greatest horsemen, women and leaders that AQHA has to offer,” Atkinson said. “I am excited to spend two weeks in College Station this summer, getting to know people from different countries, partaking in clinics and leadership activities, and of course, for the competition.”

Accept what you can’t change. In this sport, there can be countless uncontrollable factors: your horse spooks, the judge misses a major mistake made by your opponent, you’re denied a re-ride, and more. To maintain peace of mind, you must be able to let go of the things that are out of your hands. Allowing these factors to occupy your mind is a waste of mental energy—something an athlete can’t afford to misuse. It’s best to channel energy toward factors that can be controlled.

The Ohio Quarter Horse Foundation is excited to announce that we will be bringing the Congress Classroom to the SOQHA Challenge and Madness shows again in 2018! We recognize that it is not easy to stay on top of your academics or work while competing, so we will be providing wireless internet and a printer to help you do all your work while at the show.