Make the Most of the TQHA Amateur Incentive Fund – Apply by December 15!

The Tennessee Quarter Horse Association’s Amateur Association is proud to support our members who give back through volunteerism and competition. Each year, the TQHA Amateur Incentive Fund provides up to $4,000 in assistance to help offset expenses for active members who dedicate their time and energy to TQHA events and shows.

If you’ve been helping at horse shows, working behind the scenes on committees, or pitching in at special events, this is your opportunity to be rewarded for your contributions to the association!

How It Works

  • Membership Requirement:
    You must hold a current TQHA Competitive Membership, renewed by September 1.

  • Volunteer Requirement:
    Complete 6 volunteer hours by September 30. Eligible service includes helping at TQHA or TQHA Region shows, assisting with fundraising or special events, or serving on a show committee.

  • Award Levels:

    • $200 voucher – for members who complete the 6-hour volunteer requirement. Vouchers can be used toward any expenses at TQHA points shows the following calendar year.

    • $400 cash/check – for members who complete the 6 hours and qualify for and enter any AQHA World Championship Show (Nutrena AQHA, Adequan Select, or VRH).

Vouchers are non-transferable and must be used by the individual who earned them.

How to Apply

Complete your Amateur Incentive Fund Application by December 15 to be considered.
You’ll need to submit your service log and confirm your membership details.

Applications will be reviewed and approved by the TQHA Amateur President, who also oversees distribution of funds.

The Incentive Fund is one of the many ways the TQHA Amateur Association celebrates the members who make our shows and events possible. Whether you’re cheering from the stands, helping in the ring, or competing at the World Show, your time and effort strengthen our community—and this program is designed to give a little something back.

Don’t miss the deadline – apply by December 15!
Find the guidelines, forms, and service log on TQHA.org under the Amateur section.

All -Around Winners, Trail Challenge recap and more from the TQHA September Circuit

What a weekend in Murfreesboro! The 2025 TQHA September Circuit brought out incredible horses and a whole lot of Tennessee hospitality. With 1,805 entries, the show had full classes and lots of fun! Here’s a quick lap around the best moments and results.

A Tailgate to Remember

Saturday night’s TQHA Amateur Association Fall Tailgate turned the Miller Club into the best seat in the house. Guests enjoyed a full BBQ spread while cheering on the action in the pen—proof that good food and great friends make every class more fun.

Inaugural TQHA Trail Challenge

Brought to you by Ryan Cottinghim Show Horses and Harris Leather & Silverworks, our first-ever Trail Challenge delivered precision, style, and serious fan energy. 
Winners: Shawn Hayes & Rachel Trebesh — they took home custom Harris spurs for their win.

English Versatility Champions

  • Open: Miranda Rogers

  • Non Pro: Sarah Chabot

These riders showed exactly what English Versatility is all about—forward, balanced trips with polish. Thanks to TQHA for the Show pad awards and to Zach Moore Horse Shoeing for the Prize Horse Shoe Coasters!

“An Exhibitor’s Perspective” Showmanship Clinic with Joe Whitt

AQHA Select Amateur World Champion Joe Whitt led a hands-on clinic focused on ring craft, confidence, and the details that separate good from great. In total, 26 hands-on participants and 15 auditors benefited from the clinic, making it one of the weekend’s most engaging learning opportunities.

Hospitality Highlights

The September Circuit wouldn’t be complete without the generous support of our hospitality sponsors.

  • Tennessee Equine provided a delicious sandwich lunch on Friday that kept exhibitors energized between classes.

  • Tricia Summers and Kristen Roberts Realty of Luxury Homes International treated exhibitors to morning breakfast bites and coffee, making sure everyone started the day on the right note.

Special Thanks for Show Prizes

A huge thank you to Ferguson’s Tack Store and Hold It Magnetic Numbers for providing outstanding circuit award and horse show prizes that made the victories even sweeter.

Official Show Photography

The moments of the September Circuit were beautifully captured by Miranda Taylor Photography, the official show photographer. Exhibitors and families can view and purchase proofs directly on her website: Miranda Taylor Photography.

2025 September Circuit All-Around Winners

  • Small FryMichaela Gardner, It’s Blazing Men

  • L1 Youth Walk/TrotHarper Finley, Everyone Likes Pie

  • L1 Amateur Walk/TrotAmanda Cadrecha, Lazy To The Roan

  • L1 YouthRuthie Hall, Blackies Good Bar

  • L1 AmateurNoreen Hornsby, Quick Lil Whiz

  • Youth 13 & UnderMaycee Watt, Wrap Up The Money

  • Youth 14–18Mary Cate Kerr, Suddenly Remembered

  • AmateurHayley Kittler, Certified Technician

  • Amateur SelectKatherine Haynes, Trading Secrets

  • OpenKim Burritt, Do You Have A Winner

  • Youth RanchAbigail Lewis, Buck Roo

  • Amateur RanchAshley Jindrich, The Best Pickup Line

  • Open RanchAbigail Lewis, Buck Roo

Full class results and circuit award winners can be found at TQHA.org/events.

Shipping Your Award

If you won an All-Around, please email tnquaterhorse@gmail.com so we can get your award shipped.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

That wraps up our TQHA Horse Shows for the 2025 Year-End Awards season. We couldn’t do it without the generous support of our sponsors:

Gold Level Sponsors

  • Cathy Herrin Performance Horses

  • Scot Kyle Show Horses

  • Delaney Rostad Performance Horses

  • Lone Star Ranch Services

  • Custom Collars Boutique

  • Smith Insurance Service

  • B+L Stables

Silver Sponsor

  • Tyrell Quarter Horses

Congrats to every exhibitor, owner, trainer, sponsor, and volunteer who made the TQHA September Circuit—with 1,805 entries—such a standout success. We look forward to celebrating together at the 2025 TQHA Year-End Awards Banquet and Convention!

TQHA Amateur Association Fall Tailgate Party

Saturday evening of the September Circuit is all about good food, great friends, and exciting competition! Join the TQHA Amateur Association for a Fall Tailgate on Saturday at 5:00pm in the Miller Club.

We’ll have a full BBQ spread from Jim ‘N Nick’s, complete with all the fixins, served up while you enjoy a front-row seat to the action in the pen. The evening coincides with the inaugural TQHA Trail Challenge, so you can grab a plate, settle in, and cheer on your favorite exhibitors as they navigate one of the most fun and fan-favorite classes of the show.

Whether you’re an amateur, youth, trainer, or spectator, everyone is invited to share in this celebration of fall, fellowship, and the Quarter Horse spirit. Don’t miss it!

Celebrating Leadership: Courtney Smith Honored by AQHA

The AQHA Wrangler Youth Leader of the Year in honor of Roger Elder celebrates some of our most important leaders in our industry. This year, we are thrilled to share that Courtney Smith, a dedicated TQHA member and Youth Committee leader, has earned this national recognition.

The award celebrates adult volunteers who go above and beyond in their dedication to shaping the next generation of horsemen and horsewomen. Named in memory of Roger Elder—a former TQHA President, Director, Hall of Fame member, and AQHA Youth Committee Chairman—it honors individuals who make the same kind of lasting impact Roger did on youth programs across the country.

Courtney’s leadership has been a steady force for TQHYA youth. She has mentored riders, created opportunities for members to grow, and led by example in the show pen and beyond. Her passion for developing confident, skilled, and sportsmanlike young horsemen truly embodies the spirit of this award.

We are proud to call Courtney one of our own and celebrate her as a leader whose influence will be felt for years to come.

From the Arena to the Stage: Team Tennessee Brings Home the Wins

The AQHYA World Show is a proving ground for the best youth riders in the country, and the Tennessee Quarter Horse Youth Association came ready to shine.

In the 13 & Under Public Speaking division, Gentry Spooner delivered a powerful performance that earned her a first-place finish. The TQHYA Scrapbook took top honors in its division, showcasing our ability to creatively document the year’s journey in words, photos, and design.

We are proud to have had entries in every single division again this year — a testament to the dedication of our youth members and the strength of our programs.

Arena highlights included:

  • Rowdy Mullens – 7th L3 Ranch Riding 14-18, Top 20 L2 Horsemanship 14–18

  • Maddie MacLarren – Reserve Champion Level 1 Showmanship 14-18, Bronze Champion Level 1 Performance Halter Geldings; 9th Level 2 Performance Halter Gelding, Finalist Level 1 Trail 14–18 & Level 1 Horsemanship 14-18

  • AveryMae Woody – 8th Level 1 Performance Halter Mares; 9th Level 2 Equitation 13&U; 10th Level 1 Showmanship 13&U, Finalist Level 1 Equitation 13&U & Level 3 Showmanship 13&U

  • Henley Smith – Finalist Level 2 Hunter Under Saddle 13&U

  • Addilyn Sneed – Finalist Level 3 Working Hunter Under Saddle; Finalist Level 2 Equitation Over Fences; Finalist Working Hunter Under Saddle

  • Story Esparza -Champion Level 1 Ranch Riding 13&U

Every rider showed exceptional sportsmanship and teamwork, making Tennessee proud both in and out of the arena.

Horse Judging Team Racks Up National Wins

Precision, Knowledge, and Teamwork Lead to Success

The AQHYA World Show isn’t just about what happens in the saddle — it’s also about testing your knowledge of the breed. Our Horse Judging Team put their skills to the test and delivered outstanding results in the Limited Division.

Halter Placings:

  • 1st – Landrie Church

  • 2nd – Story Esparza

  • 5th – Olivia Woody

Performance Placings:

  • 3rd – Story Esparza

  • 4th – Landrie Church

Questions Placings:

  • 2nd – Landrie Church

  • 3rd – Story Esparza

    Overall Standings:

  • 2nd – Landrie Church

  • 3rd – Story Esparza

  • 6th – Olivia Woody

  • 10th – Gentry Spooner

The team kicked off the competition with early practice rounds and even enjoyed a special visit to Silver Spurs Equine in Oklahoma. Special thanks to Christy Brown for coordinating such a memorable and enriching experience.

Cosmic Couture: Wrangler & Justin Boots Contest

A Wearable Timeline of Our Journey

Two of our own, Olivia Woody and Story Esparza, stepped into the spotlight to present TQHYA’s entry for the Wrangler Jeans & Justin Boots Contest at the AQHYA World Show.

Our Youth World Committee designed an outfit that told the story of TQHYA’s mission through the stars — literally. This “cosmic couture” showcased the milestones of our journey in a creative, wearable form. Every detail tied into our 2025 theme: Our Mission: Unstoppable.

From concept sketches to the final runway-ready design, our youth worked together to create something memorable, original, and full of team spirit.

YES Conference Brings Leadership to Life

Learning, Serving, and Leading in Amarillo

The AQHYA Youth Excellence Seminar (YES) is more than just a conference — it’s a launchpad for leadership. Held in Amarillo, TX, the event brought together youth from across the country to learn, serve, and connect.

This year, TQHYA members made a big impression. We began with a service project at the Amarillo Zoo, followed by inspiring talks from keynote speakers like Tyler Schuster. Leadership breakout rooms offered practical skills for leading at both the local and national level.

One of the most exciting moments came when our own Madelyn MacLarren was elected as AQHYA’s 2025–2026 Second Vice President and Bethany Robertson was named 2025–2026 Region 9 Director. Their dedication and vision will help shape the future of youth programs across the AQHA.

Tennessee Youth Leaders Elected to National and Regional Offices

Meet Your New Leaders: Madelyn MacLarren & Bethany Robertson

We’re proud to announce two major leadership wins for Tennessee youth:

  • Madelyn MacLarren – AQHYA 2025–2026 Second Vice President

  • Bethany Robertson – AQHYA 2025–2026 Region 9 Director

Madelyn will bring her experience as TQHYA President to the national stage, focusing on youth engagement, leadership development, and industry representation. Bethany’s platform, Connect & Grow, will guide her work in Region 9, helping members strengthen connections and opportunities.

Their commitment to service ensures that Tennessee’s voice will be strong in AQHYA leadership.

A Voice for Agriculture in the Nation’s Capital

Earlier this year, TQHYA President Madelyn MacLarren traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent AQHYA and advocate for issues affecting the agricultural industry.

From meeting with lawmakers to participating in industry discussions, Madelyn ensured that the perspectives of youth involved in agriculture and the equine industry were heard. Her leadership in D.C. reflects the dedication she brings to every role — both at home in Tennessee and on the national stage.

“An Exhibitor’s Perspective” Showmanship Clinic with Joe Whitt

Attention Showmanship exhibitors! We’re excited to announce a special clinic coming to the TQHA September Circuit in Murfreesboro, September 11–14 — “An Exhibitor’s Perspective: Showmanship with Joe Whitt.”

As a Congress and NSBA World Champion Select Amateur World Champion, Joe Whitt will share his personal approach to Showmanship from the standpoint of a fellow exhibitor—not a professional trainer. This is your chance to gain insight into the strategies, habits, and small details that have helped Joe succeed in the arena.

The clinic is free to attend but requires registration at the show office. It will be held Friday afternoon, in sessions of 8 horse-and-handler teams. We will have at least two sessions, with more added depending on sign-ups.

You’ll learn how to bring polish to your next pattern, tighten up the fine points, and build confidence from someone who’s been in your boots and stood in the lineup himself.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take your Showmanship to the next level with real-world tips from a fellow amateur champion.

TQHA Convention & Awards Banquet Survey

As we plan the upcoming TQHA Annual Convention and Awards Banquet, the TQHA Officers and our Convention Task Force are eager to hear from you—our valued members.

Whether you've attended in the past or are considering it for the first time, we want your input on everything from location and timing to speakers, entertainment, and ways to get more members involved.

This event is a celebration of our community, and we want it to reflect what matters most to our members.

📋 Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey:
👉 https://peak-equine.com/tqha-shows/tqha-convention-survey/

Thank you for helping us make the 2025 TQHA Convention and Awards Banquet the best yet!

TQHA September Circuit: All You Need to Know!

The 2025 TQHA Circuit Show Bill is Here
September 9–11 | Murfreesboro, Tennessee

It’s time to mark your calendars and start mapping out your classes—the official show bill for the 2025 TQHA Circuit is now available! This year’s event brings a full weekend of competition to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, from September 9–11, featuring five AQHA-approved judges and a diverse slate of AQHA and NSBA classes.

Whether you're showing in Trail, Ranch, Western Riding, Over Fences, or Pleasure classes, there's something for everyone—youth, amateur, and open riders alike. Don’t miss the debut of the Trail Challenge or the crowd-favorite Small Fry and Leadline classes that bring the next generation to the ring.

Special Highlight: Trail Challenge

We’re excited for the debut the Trail Challenge, sponsored by Ryan Cottingim Show Horses and Harris Leather and Silverworks. This fun, team-format class is open to all and will award custom Harris silver spurs to the winning duo—along with a jackpot payout from 75% of the entry fees. It’s the perfect mix of strategy, horsemanship, and friendly competition.

Event Highlights:

  • Five-judge format

  • NSBA concurrent classes

  • English Versatility

  • Trail Challenge jackpot class

  • Small Fry, Walk/Trot, and Leadline offerings

  • Affordable all-inclusive fee options

Peak Equine Productions is managing all stall and RV reservations. Be sure to reserve early via www.Peak-Equine.com.

For a full list of classes, fees, and judges, download the Official Show Bill and plan your best run yet at the TQHA Circuit.

Want to learn more about caring for your Horse? Take these Courses!

Smart Learning for Smarter Horse Care: UT Extension Offers Two Must-Take Equine Courses This Fall

Horse owners across Tennessee know that good care starts with good education. This fall, the University of Tennessee Extension is offering two excellent online learning opportunities that every horse owner should consider: the Equine Nutrition Short Course (ENSC) and Caring for Senior Equids.

Whether you’re managing a performance horse, feeding a broodmare, or making end-of-life decisions for your lifelong companion, these two courses provide practical, research-based knowledge in a flexible, accessible format.

Equine Nutrition Short Course
September 2 – October 25, 2025
Online webinars, recordings, classroom access

Over nine weeks, this course will guide participants through foundational nutrition principles before exploring the specific nutrient needs of different classes of horses—young, performance, breeding, senior, and more. Weekly live webinars (with access to recordings), interactive Q&A sessions, and online resources make it easy for busy owners to stay informed and engaged.

👉 Register and learn more

Caring for Senior Equids
August 7 – 28, 2025
4-week webinar series + online classroom

Senior horses require a unique kind of care. This course offers clear, compassionate instruction on identifying and managing age-related issues such as dental health, nutrition, joint pain, and quality-of-life considerations. It also helps owners recognize decline and prepare for tough but necessary decisions like euthanasia. Participants will gain access to both live and recorded sessions, as well as a resource-rich online classroom.

👉 Register and learn more

Why Enroll?
Both courses are:

  • Online and self-paced with expert instruction

  • Backed by science and delivered by UT Extension specialists

  • Practical, relevant, and immediately applicable to your barn or backyard

If you're a horse owner in Tennessee looking to up your game—or simply be the best possible steward for your horse—these programs are an excellent place to start. 🐴

New for 2025: The Trail Challenge Debuts at the TQHA Circuit

New for 2025: The Trail Challenge Debuts at the TQHA Circuit

Presented by Harris Leather and Silverworks + Ryan Cottingim Show Horses

We’re adding something brand new—and seriously fun—to the lineup this year! The Trail Challenge is making its TQHA Circuit debut in 2025, and it’s already generating buzz. With a team format, creative course design, and prizes worth riding for, this class is set to be a highlight of the September show.

Proudly sponsored by Harris Leather and Silverworks and Ryan Cottingim Show Horses, this is your chance to ride for custom silver spurs, jackpot cash, and major bragging rights.

How It Works

Each team pairs a Non Pro rider (Youth or Amateur) with a Professional. The Non Pro will ride the first half of the trail pattern, stop at a designated transition point (mounting block provided), and hand off to the Professional to finish the pattern. Stirrup adjustments are allowed—but no equipment changes or schooling during the switch.

Entry + Payout

  • Entry Fee: $50 per team

  • Pre-entry required by the day before the class

  • 75% Jackpotted and paid as follows:
    1st PlaceHarris Custom Silver Spurs + 30% of jackpot
    2nd Place – 25% of jackpot
    3rd Place – 20% of jackpot
    4th Place – 15% of jackpot
    5th Place – 10% of jackpot

🔍 Class Rules + Format

  • Professional riders can ride on multiple teams.

  • Non Pros must meet AQHA ownership/lease rules for any horse they ride.

  • Pattern will be handed out immediately prior to the start of the class; no schooling or practice allowed. Exhibitors will be allowed to walk the pattern. 

  • All teams must ride in working order, with accommodations made for multiple-horse riders.

  • Trail scoring will follow standard AQHA trail obstacle scoring, with one cumulative score per team.

  • In case of a tie, a pre-designated judge’s scorecard will be used.

  • This is not an AQHA-sanctioned class—no points, no all-around standings, and no year-end awards.

This fresh addition to the TQHA Circuit is all about teamwork, precision, and a good dose of fun. Whether you're planning to ride or just want a front-row seat, make sure you don't miss the Trail Challengenew for 2025!

Official Rules – 2025 TQHA Trail Challenge

  1. Entry Fee: $50 per team. Teams must pre-enter by the day prior to the class.

  2. Payout: 75% of all entry fees will be jackpotted and paid out as follows:

    • First Place: Custom Harris Silver Spurs awarded to both team members + 30% of the jackpot

    • Second Place: 25% of the jackpot

    • Third Place: 20% of the jackpot

    • Fourth Place: 15% of the jackpot

    • Fifth Place: 10% of the jackpot

  3. Team Structure: Each team must include one Non Pro rider (Youth or Amateur) and one Professional rider.

  4. A Professional rider may participate on multiple teams.

  5. Non Pro Eligibility: The Non Pro must meet AQHA ownership or lease requirements for any horse they ride. A Non Pro may ride multiple horses if they meet these criteria.

  6. Ride Format:

    • The Non Pro rides the first half of the pattern and dismounts at a designated location.

    • A mounting block will be provided.

    • The Professional then mounts and completes the second half of the pattern.

    • Stirrup adjustments are permitted, but no other equipment changes may be made.

    • No schooling is allowed during the rider exchange.

    • Judges will continue to score through the rider change.

  7. Scoring:

    • Standard AQHA trail scoring per obstacle will be used.

    • One cumulative team score will be calculated.

    • In the event of a tie, a designated tiebreaker judge’s score will be used.

  8. Pattern:

    • The pattern will not be released in advance.

    • Teams will be provided the pattern immediately prior to the start of the class and may walk the course before competition begins.

    • No schooling of the pattern will be allowed.

  9. Working Order:

    • Teams will show in a drawn working order.

    • Any conflicts due to multiple horses will be addressed within the order.

  10. AQHA Status:

    • This is not an AQHA class.

    • No points will be awarded, and this class does not count toward all-around, circuit, or year-end awards.

Dogwood Classic Breaks Records and Brought the Fun!

The 2025 Dogwood Classic was one for the books, setting new records in entries, awards, and prize money. Held in Harriman, Tennessee, the show brought together exhibitors from across the region for a week of top-tier competition, camaraderie, and celebration of the American Quarter Horse.

A huge thank you goes to the TQHA Region II Show Committee for making this show possible—Tina Buffkin, John McDonald, Tracy Cravens, Megan McConkey, and Pat Kress—for their dedication and leadership behind the scenes.

Hunter Entries Top 180 Daily

With more than 180 Hunter exhibitors each day, the Dogwood Classic saw its largest Hunter turnout ever. These classes drew impressive talent and were supported by expanded awards and added prize money.

Rose Mason Memorial Ranch Challenge

The Rose Mason Memorial Ranch Challenge brought out a strong group of versatile horse-and-rider teams. With $5,000 added money and premium prizes, the challenge honored Rose’s legacy and continued to grow in both participation and meaning.

AQHYA Spotlight: Emily Lakey

Emily Lakey presented a special demonstration of her work with a young horse through the AQHA Young Horse Development Program, showcasing the next generation of horsemanship and what it means to bring up a horse from the ground up.

2025 High Point Champions

Ranch Riding Challenge

  • Open: Let’s Double Down – Wendy McConnell, shown by Clayton Jerrell

  • Amateur: Let’s Double Down – Jenna Marie McConnell

  • Youth: Uptown Shine – Preslee May

English Versatility

  • Non Pro: Blackies Good Bar – Ruthie Hall

  • Open: Do You Have a Winner – Kim Burritt

Western Horse

  • Open: Certain Im Invited – Joanne L. Karpinski

  • Amateur: Just Found Chocolate – Sally Almond

  • Youth: Don’t Text Your Ex – Avery Mae Woody

All-Around High Points

  • Open Horse: Do You Have a Winner – Kim Burritt

  • Amateur: Roobie – Sidney Sargent

  • Amateur Select: Do You Have a Winner – Kim Burritt

  • Youth 14–18: Getin Hot Better Trot – Victoria Raleigh

  • Youth 13 & Under: Don’t Text Your Ex – Avery Mae Woody

  • Level 1 Amateur: Im Too Sexy to Iron – Taylor Battistelli

  • Level 1 Youth: The Iron Outlaw – Maegan Fuchs

  • Walk Trot Amateur: Ain’t Too Lazy – Marcy Lang

  • Small Fry: Ona Hott Suggestion – Elayna Bridges

Hunter Division

  • Amateur: Sweet N Fabulous – Sarah Chabot

  • Youth: The Iron Outlaw – Maeghan Fuchs

  • Level 1 Youth: The Iron Outlaw – Maeghan Fuchs

  • Level 1 Amateur: Al E Hondro – Geraldean Lantier

  • Open: Next Tangible Assets – Alexis Hart

From ranch classes to Hunter rounds, from rising youth to seasoned champions, the 2025 Dogwood Classic delivered a full week of incredible showing and sportsmanship. Follow Dogwood Classic – TQHA Region II on Facebook for more updates, photos, and highlights as we look ahead to next year’s event.

Full Results found here — https://www.pbkressshows.com/

Expanded High Point Awards + New English Versatility Event at the 2025 Dogwood Classic

Big News for Hunter Riders: Expanded High Point Awards + New English Versatility Event at the 2025 Dogwood Classic

The Dogwood Classic just keeps getting better—and this year’s Hunter riders have even more to be excited about!

We’re thrilled to announce expanded prize offerings for Hunter exhibitors at the 2025 Dogwood Classic, thanks to the support of new sponsor Ryan Painter Show Stables. With their generous contribution, we’ve increased the total giveaway value and added Reserve Champion awards in every Hunter division. More money. More winners. More reasons to bring your best to the ring.

2025 Hunter High Point Awards:

  • Open Division: $125 Dover Gift Card for Champion | $75 for Reserve

  • Amateur & Youth Divisions: $100 Gift Card for Champions | $50 for Reserves

  • Level 1 Amateur & Level 1 Youth: $50 Gift Card for Champions | $25 for Reserves

A huge thank you goes to Sarah Elder Chabot, the foundational sponsor of the Dogwood Classic Hunter High Point Awards for the past three years. Her commitment to the Hunter division helped build the momentum that’s now growing even stronger.

Introducing the 2025 English Versatility Event

As if that weren’t enough, Saturday, June 21 brings an exciting new addition to the schedule: the English Versatility Event, celebrating well-rounded riders in both Open and Non-Pro divisions. Riders will be tested across multiple classes, and the prizes are something to get excited about:

  • 🥇 Champion: AQHA Bronze + $200 Marigold Gift Card

  • 🥈 Reserve: $100 Marigold Gift Card

  • 🥉 Third: $75 Visa Gift Card

Special thanks to the event sponsors—Marigold Riding Apparel, Bamore Performance Horses, and Harrybrook Farm—for making this new showcase of English talent possible.

Mark Your Calendars

🗓 June 19–22, 2025
📍 Roane State Expo Center – Harriman, TN
🔗 Learn more or reserve stalls and RV spots at www.tqha.org

Whether you're chasing points, prize money, or just unforgettable show memories, the 2025 Dogwood Classic is where you want to be.

Prizes Announced for the 2025 Southland Circuit!

We’re just weeks away from one of the most anticipated shows of the summer—the Southland Circuit (managed by Peak Equine), June 24–29 at Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, TN—and we’re thrilled to unveil the incredible lineup of prizes waiting for our top exhibitors!

From show ring essentials to custom-crafted keepsakes, this year’s awards are all about recognizing your hard work and dedication in style.

🌟 All-Around Awards

The 2025 All-Around Champions in each division will take home Performance Stall Mats—a barn upgrade everyone can appreciate. These will be awarded in the following divisions:

  • Level 1, Junior, and Senior Horse

  • Level 1 Amateur, Amateur, and Select Amateur

  • Level 1 Youth, 13 & Under, and 14–18 Youth

Walk-Trot Champions in both the Youth and Amateur categories will receive a truly special prize—Tall Oak Wooded Chairs handmade by Ted Parker. These chairs are as beautiful as they are functional, and make a perfect memory of your winning ride.

Reserve All-Around winners will also take home show-day favorites like Carrol Caddies and Step Stools—useful, practical, and just plain fun.

🎁 Circuit Awards: Saddle Up in Style

Exhibitors consistently shining throughout the week will be recognized with Southland Circuit Circuit Awards, including:

  • Embroidered English & Western Saddle Covers

  • Saddle Pad Bags

  • Helmet Bags

  • Clothing Bags

  • ...and more must-have gear!

These awards are not only practical for travel and tack room organization, but also a badge of honor celebrating your performance throughout the week.

📅 Don’t Miss These Key Dates

  • Move-In Begins: June 22, 2025

  • Show Dates: June 24–29, 2025

  • Pattern Book Releases: June 1

  • Stall & RV Reservations: Open now at www.peak-equine.com

🎟️ Reserve your stalls and get ready for a prize-packed week of fun, friendly competition, and Southern hospitality at its best! We can’t wait to see you at the Southland Circuit.

Support, Show, and Shine: The TQHA Amateur Incentive Fund

Tennessee Quarter Horse Association’s Amateur members are the heart of our association—dedicated competitors, volunteers, and community builders. To support their commitment and help ease the financial demands of showing, the TQHA Amateur Association offers an annual Amateur Incentive Fund designed to reward active involvement with practical assistance.

What Is the Amateur Incentive Fund?

The TQHA Amateur Incentive Fund is a $4,000 annual program that gives back to TQHA Amateur members who contribute their time to the organization. Whether you’re helping at a horse show, lending a hand at a fundraiser, or serving on a committee, your time can translate into valuable support toward your showing expenses.

How It Works:

  • Eligibility: All applicants must be current TQHA Competitive Members with their membership renewed by September 1.

  • Volunteer Requirement: Complete six hours of volunteer work at any TQHA-affiliated show, event, or on a committee by September 30.

  • How You’re Rewarded:

    • $200 Voucher: Members who complete their hours but do not attend a world show can receive up to $200 in the form of a voucher. These vouchers can be applied toward expenses at any TQHA point show in the following calendar year.

    • $400 Cash/Check: Members who complete their hours and qualify for and enter a horse in any AQHA World Show (Nutrena AQHA, Adequan Select, or VRH) are eligible for a $400 award.

📝 Note: Vouchers are non-transferable and must be used by the recipient. The world show entry can be for either open or amateur classes, and the entered horse does not need to be the same as the one listed on the member’s TQHA Comp Card.

Deadline to Apply:

Applications must be submitted by December 15 each year. It is the responsibility of the TQHA Amateur President to collect and review applications and oversee distribution of the awards.

Whether you’re headed to a world show or just giving back to your local equestrian community, this program is designed to support your journey and celebrate your involvement.

Ready to get started?
See the full Amateur Incentive Fund Guidelines and Forms here »

Let your service to TQHA take you further in and out of the show pen!