Tennessee Quarter Horse Association Announces VS Code Red & First Thingz First Awards at the 2026 Lucky Seven Classic

Murfreesboro, Tenn. — The Tennessee Quarter Horse Association (TQHA) is proud to announce a special awards program at the Tennessee Quarter Horse Association’s Lucky Seven Classic, taking place April 29 – May 3, 2026, made possible through the support of Katie Van Slyke and her stallions VS Code Red and First Thingz First. The initiative highlights Van Slyke’s belief in supporting the Quarter Horse industry at the local level and strengthening the state associations that serve as the foundation of the sport.

A lifelong exhibitor who grew up showing at TQHA events, Van Slyke has long understood the importance of local shows in developing horses, riders, and lasting community. After attending a TQHA show last year, she recognized an opportunity to bring renewed focus and meaningful support to her home-state affiliate. Working openly with TQHA leadership, she helped design a program that would attract exhibitors, reward developing horses and riders, and encourage others to invest in grassroots organizations.

“We are incredibly thankful for Katie’s willingness to step in and support her local state affiliate,” said Patrick Kayser, President of the Tennessee Quarter Horse Association. “We share a common passion for building this industry from the ground up. TQHA is one of many opportunities’ exhibitors can show their horses, and we encourage everyone to seek out a local show this year and support the associations that make those opportunities possible.”

The awards program includes the $10,000 VS Code Red Western Pleasure Challenge, split between two NSBA dual-approved Western Pleasure classes—Non-Pro on Friday evening and Open on Saturday evening. The highest placing horse that shows in both classes will be crowned the VS Code Red Western Pleasure Challenge Champion and will receive a special edition trophy. Eligible horses are those that are 4 years old and older and have not earned more than $5,000 prior to January 1, 2026. Each class will have $5,000 added, with a $125 entry fee per class, and all entry fees will be jackpotted back into the earnings, increasing the total payout.

Awards for the highest-placing limited rider in both the Non-Pro and Open Western Pleasure classes are sponsored by Harris Leather and Silverworks and include a silver headstall and silver spurs, further recognizing developing riders competing at this level.

The initiative also includes $1,000 added classes sponsored by First Thingz First in Amateur Hunter Under Saddle, Open Western Riding, Junior Trail, and Select Western Pleasure.

Lisa Elam, TQHA Sponsorship Chair, added, “Katie’s support shows how impactful it can be when successful owners and exhibitors choose to give back locally. We hope this inspires others to support their own AQHA state affiliates—by attending shows, sponsoring classes, sharing information, and encouraging new exhibitors to get involved.”

For complete award details and the full Lucky Seven schedule, visit tqha.org.