Save the Date: The AQHA Ranch Horse Classic Returns to the World Show November 7

The second annual event shows off the versatility and tradition of the American Quarter Horse in true ranch horse fashion.

From AQHA:

The American Quarter Horse Association is proud to host the second annual AQHA Ranch Horse Classic, presented by Platinum Performance, during the 2025 AQHA World Championship Show, on November 7 in the Performance Arena at the OKC Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City.

An estimated $75,000 in prize money will be up for grabs during the AQHA Ranch Horse Classic, which is an event open to horses from 3 to 5 years old and exhibitors of all ages and experiences, including youth and amateur riders.

Horses will be shown sequentially by the same exhibitor in ranch riding, ranch trail and ranch cow work, where exhibitors have the option to rope or circle their cow. As in 2024, Ranching Heritage-bred horses will be automatically eligible for an additional side pot. New this year, an amateur side pot will be offered for amateur exhibitors entering the event. Also new this year, viewers – both in person and on the live feed – will be able to vote for their favorite horses as the competition commences. The AQHA Fan Favorite horse will be announced during the awards ceremony at the conclusion of the event.

An owner may enter one horse in this event.

• The event is limited to 20 entries.
• A rider may enter one horse and the same rider must show the horse in all three portions.
• Entry priority will be given to horses qualified to one of these AQHA championship shows in 2025: AQHA World Show, Versatility Ranch Horse World Championships, Ranching Heritage Challenge Finals or the AQHYA World Show.
• Entry priority will be given to Ranching Heritage-bred horses, regardless of Ranching Heritage Challenge enrollment status.
• A waitlist will be created for additional entries on a first come-first served basis according to date/time stamp the entry is submitted.

Entries for the event will open when the AQHA World Show entries open in mid-August.

The 2024 Ranch Horse Classic showcased 20 horses competing for the inaugural title. Taking home the win, along with $33,000 and prizes, was TCR Wild Cat, shown by Lavert Avent of Mineral Wells, Texas. The 2019 bay gelding is by Dual Smart Rey out of SR Cat Attack by Wild Haired Cat. TCR Wild Cat is owned by T Cross Ranches of Mineral Wells, Texas, and was bred by Rancho Estrellita De Cobre LLC of Weatherford, Texas.

For more information about the AQHA Ranch Horse Classic, visit www.aqha.com/worldshow and stay tuned for updates!