Bridging the gap is a constant topic for horse show attendees, support teams, and of course, horse show producers.
2026 Indiana Quarter Horse Association Queen Riata Rouch decided to tackle this matter in an innovative way by sponsoring a youth who had never competed at a breed show previously.
Riata’s ingenuity not only impacted one lucky youth this fall, but they’re going to fund another winner in the spring – this will be open to Indiana amateurs and youth who have never competed at a breed show.

The flyer for the first round of applicants – the winner is Katelynn Stephen. Stay tuned to Riata’s FB page for the spring application.
Read more about the “Show IQHA Giveaway” below:
“This idea stemmed from the increasing online conversations around show attendance, as well as the gap between 4H and breed show level showing, and what could be done to bridge this gap,” explains Riata.
“I wanted to eliminate as many obstacles as possible to help encourage a youth to step into a breed show arena. In addition to the amazing prize package, I am setting up a fantastic support system for them while they are at the show. I want to ensure a positive and fun experience for not only the winner, but everyone involved.”
So she obtained sponsors for a prize package giveaway, open to any 4H member who competed at the Indiana County Fair. 4H members had to fill out an application by August 3rd, and it was available online or by contacting Riata by email.
The total prize package for the fall giveaway totaled over $1,000, and the fall winner’s name is Katelynn Stephen.
“Thank you to everyone who applied, donated, and helped me review applications. If you did not win this cycle, please apply again in the spring. More information on the spring application will be released soon.”
“With the money raised, we are also able to fund another winner in the Spring, which will be open to Indiana amateurs and youth who have never competed at a breed show!” reveals Riata. “We received donations from 6 different states and generated a lot of interest in creating a similar program within other associations.”
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
♦ Must have been in grades 3–12 at their respective 2026 Indiana County Fair.
♦ Must own a registered American Quarter Horse.
♦ Must have never competed at a breed show before.
THE WINNER WILL RECEIVE:
♦ Two free stalls for the IQHA show of their choice (the winner chose to attend the IQHAA Fall Show- September 12-13)
♦ All entries paid for one horse
♦ One AQHYA membership
♦ Professional braiding/banding services
♦ A custom banner to be displayed at their stall for the duration of the show
♦ Three free lessons with Carson Training Center
♦ A new show pad
♦ Starlite Quilted Pony
♦ Hay Chix net and bucket
♦ SloGlo Travel Bundle
♦ Perry the Pony prize pack
♦ Custom tail bags and towels
♦ A large bucket of grooming/ show supplies
This incredible opportunity is proudly brought to you by 2026 IQHA Queen Riata Rouch, with the support of so many amazing sponsors!
2026iqhaqueen@gmail.com
Learn more about the Indiana Quarter Horse Association and their shows here: