After an injury while riding, Greg decided to slow down and move closer to family. The Wheat family moved to Louisiana and it is here where Greg decided to concentrate on his son, Steve’s, show career. Also, it was here that he had the idea to start a NSBA Futurity, the NSBA Summer Breakout Show, located Cloverdale, Indiana. After a successful two years, Mr. Wheat plans to continue his futurity and will eventually move it to the World Equestrian Center in Wilmington, Ohio.

View highlights from seven AQHA standing committees that were approved by the Executive Committee on April 8. Rule-change recommendations related to bylaws and rules of registration will not be considered until the 2021 AQHA Convention. Read the full committee reports, which the Executive Committee has taken action on at www.aqha.com/committee-reports.

Looking for something fun to do while you’re in isolation? The Pinto Horse Association is having a photography and art contest!

As with the rest of the world, the COVID-19 situation is drastically affecting our lives and our desired horse showing. However, TSQHA has made some great changes (PENDING AQHA approval) to our roster of shows. The May 9-10 show with three judges is being cancelled. The May 29-31 show with five judges is still hopefully happening. Pending approval, the August and September shows will each have five judges and follow the show format of the Summer Celebration show tentatively being held the end of May.

A common question that we hear from AQHA members is, “What is the difference between DNA typing and parentage verification?” The truth is there isn’t much of a difference. A DNA test derives the genetic markers of an individual horse. Think of it like a fingerprint. Each horse has its own unique genetic marker. Parentage verification still obtains that genetic marker, but it also compares it to the sire and dam recorded for that horse. Basically, parentage verification makes sure the dam is the horse’s mother and the sire is the horse’s father.

The 2020 APHA Youth World Show is currently on schedule; however, we are continuing to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation and will follow the direction and guidance of federal, state and local authorities. We will be sure to communicate any changes as soon as possible. Should the Youth World Show be canceled due to COVID-19, full refunds will be granted, so there is absolutely no risk in sending in your pre-entries to qualify for the best rates!

As events and disciplines become more specialized, so, too, do the American Quarter Horses bred to excel in those sports. The question, “What are the Halter horse bloodlines?” is never too far from any enthusiast’s mind.