Training Topic: Leg Yields And Side Passes
March 23, 2026 Comments Off on Training Topic: Leg Yields And Side Passes
While to the casual observer leg yields and side passes may appear similar, their intent, energy, and execution differ–and those differences matter. But successfully completing either movement begins long before a pattern calls for it. Proper training, body control, and clear communication are essential to producing lateral movement that is both correct and credit-earning.
Continue reading …Behind The Clipboard: Seasoned Judges Share Insights From The Center Of The Pen
March 21, 2026 Comments Off on Behind The Clipboard: Seasoned Judges Share Insights From The Center Of The Pen
It’s that time of year when newly carded judges are named – an announcement that should be accompanied by a celebration, as the path to get there is not for the faint of heart, and the responsibility of holding a card is not one that is taken lightly.
Continue reading …Back Numbers: It’s All In The Details
March 19, 2026 Comments Off on Back Numbers: It’s All In The Details
It only takes a moment sitting ringside at a horse show to appreciate the attention to detail that competitors bring to their sand-covered stage. Each crystal-covered jacket, perfectly placed band, tightly wrapped braid, and tangle-free tail creates a picture-perfect image for judges to evaluate. The effort and investment in competing in this sport cannot be overstated. Yet, there is one area that many exhibitors often overlook: the proper display of back numbers.
Continue reading …
Almost every mare owner dreams about breeding for a replica of what they already own. So, they start shopping for the perfect stallion to match those expectations and dreams. There are so many different variables that it can be overwhelming for new and even some veteran breeders. We’ve asked some stallion owners and longtime breeders for some wisdom about choosing the right stallion to breed to a mare.
Continue reading …20 Tips For Presenting A Well-Groomed Horse In-Hand
March 16, 2026 Comments Off on 20 Tips For Presenting A Well-Groomed Horse In-Hand
Learn to make your show-day performance a shining success with head-to-tail grooming and fitting tips that will make your horse stand out as one of the most well-groomed in the show ring.
Continue reading …Grit, Grace & Determination – Shannon Quinlan Hill
March 15, 2026 Comments Off on Grit, Grace & Determination – Shannon Quinlan Hill
Grit. Perhaps there is no better word to describe trainer Shannon Quinlan Hill, though ‘passion’ is likely a close second. This driven young woman was in the saddle before she could sit upright, and she was showing hunters by age three. But there’s also no better illustration of her perseverence than the 2025 Quarter Horse Congress.
Continue reading …
Horse breeding is a synthesis of art (intuition, vision for desirable traits) and science (genetics, reproductive technology) focused on improving quality, performance, and preserving bloodlines. This is accomplished using methods from natural mating to advanced techniques like artificial insemination and embryo transfer–all while balancing husbandry and genetics to achieve one’s desired outcomes.
Continue reading …
Throughout the history of AQHA, its leadership has emphasized the importance of inspiring the next generation of riders and supporting current members. These fundamentals inspired the AQHA Amateur Ambassador Program, which allows veteran amateurs to be a resource to all exhibitors at the shows. As delegates of the program, the Amateur Ambassadors are a source of contact for a variety of information, including stalling and bedding information, showbill questions, pattern information, official show veterinarian contacts, farrier contacts, membership information, and accessing the AQHA rulebook.
Continue reading …Sliding Into The Season: The Rundown On The Run For A Million
March 9, 2026 Comments Off on Sliding Into The Season: The Rundown On The Run For A Million
What happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas! The famed NRHA Run For A Million show is right around the corner! With the exciting new season comes new rules and regulations–and new opportunities for qualifying. This horse show brings some of the very best reining horses and riders in the world together at the prestigious South Point Arena and Equestrian Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, August 9-15, 2026.
Continue reading …Larger Than Life: The Legacy Of Solair, 2017-2025
March 7, 2026 Comments Off on Larger Than Life: The Legacy Of Solair, 2017-2025
Sometimes the world needs a reminder that behind the polished, poised animals we see in the show ring, horses all have a story to tell that is written after the arena lights go dark. More than just a collector of golden globes and grand champion neck sashes, legendary AQHA halter gelding Solair’s story is one of forging friendships, dedicated teamwork, shared dreams, and boundless love.
Continue reading …