GQHA’s First Novice Show of the Year is Largest in Program’s History
Education in the form of clinics hosted by AQHA Professional Horsemen is a big part of the GQHA Novice/Open Series. All photos courtesy of Lisa Lee.
By: Brittany Bevis
Many regional associations and local clubs have quickly realized that novice competitors are the future of the industry with L1 classes often bringing in the largest entry counts at major horse shows across the country. This trend was the driving force behind the creation of the Georgia Quarter Horse Association’s Novice/Open Show Saddle and Buckle Series. The Novice series is now in its fifth season in 2017.
The three part show series is intended to introduce sanctioned Quarter Horse shows to exhibitors who have never shown at an AQHA event before, but may have competed at 4-H, FFA, or open shows. GQHA held their first Novice/Open Show of the year, June 3rd in Conyers, GA. to a terrific turnout. Show management recorded 380+ entries and 50+ 4-H/FFA entries. The show ran until midnight, but entries were still being accepted at 11:30 pm! Exhibitors came from five states this year making it the largest in the event’s history.
Reining and Ranch Riding entries saw a big boost this year.
Reining and Ranch Riding classes saw a boost in entries showing 50+ total across all divisions. Plated halters were presented in 11 divisions as High Point awards to lucky competitors at the show. Free clinics, conducted by AQHA Professional Horsemen in disciplines like Showmanship, Horsemanship, Trail, Western Pleasure, and Equitation, and a pizza dinner for exhibitors helped to enhance the overall laid-back vibe of the show.
“We would like to welcome them and make them feel comfortable while learning more about the American Quarter Horse Association. We strive to create an environment where learning is fun, and we strive to make every rider at any level feel comfortable and enthusiastic about showing with us.”- GQHA Mission Statement
The next show in the Novice Series will take place July 22nd. The final show and Series Championship is scheduled for August 19th. One incentive for competitors to attend all three events is the fabulous prizes that will be awarded at the end of the series. Saddles will be presented to AQHA Novice Youth, AQHA Novice Amateur, Open, and 4-H/FFA series High Point. Buckles will be awarded to the series class winners in AQHA Novice Youth, AQHA Novice Amateur, Open, and 4-H/FFA divisions. Trophies will be awarded to the series High Points and class winners in all other divisions.
Click here to view more great around the ring photos from the first Novice/Open Show, courtesy of Lisa Lee.
