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 Place – Harris 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 Challenge—new 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!

Gold Sponsor Showcase: B & L Stables and Smith Insurance

Located in Gadsden, Tennessee, B & L Stables is proud to offer a welcoming boarding facility for riders of all disciplines and experience levels. Their vibrant community of horse lovers is built on a shared passion for showing, riding, and supporting one another — creating an environment where both horses and riders thrive.

Smith Insurance brings the same spirit of service to the world of agricultural, farm, and commercial insurance, while also offering real estate expertise to meet a wide range of client needs. Their deep roots in the agricultural community give them a unique perspective on the needs of horse owners, farmers, and businesses alike.

Both B & L Stables and Smith Insurance proudly support the Tennessee Quarter Horse Association, believing strongly in the way the association invests in its members and nurtures the future of the sport. Their commitment is especially personal, with daughters Henley Smith and Rylee Kate Hamilton active in the show arena, representing the next generation of talent and passion.

Thank you to B & L Stables and Smith Insurance for being valued partners of TQHA!

Saddle Up for the TQHA September Circuit: A Fall Finale You Won’t Want to Miss

Looking ahead to the fall, the excitement ramps up for one of our favorite events of the year: the TQHA September Circuit. Set against the backdrop of early fall in Murfreesboro, this show brings together competition, fun-filled festivities, and community spirit to celebrate another successful year.

Whether you’re wrapping up your 2025 goals or chasing those final points, this show is the perfect way to close out the season in style. Join us September 11–14, 2025 at the Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, TN.

🐴 The TQHA Trail Challenge

The buzz is real: the first annual TQHA Trail Challenge is coming this September! This year’s format introduces a new team competition, pairing one professional and one non-pro rider to take on the trail course together. The stakes? Custom Harris Leather & Silverworks spurs for both members of the winning team from Harris Leather & Silverworks and Ryan Cottingham Show Horses.

This innovative format brings a fresh layer of strategy and camaraderie to the trail pen—and promises some serious fun for riders and spectators alike.

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

Looking to polish your presence in the pen? Don’t miss the Showmanship Clinic led by Joe Whitt, AQHA Select Amateur World Champion. Joe brings a winning mindset and relatable approach to the clinic, offering insights from the non-pro’s point of view—perfect for youth, amateurs, and anyone looking to elevate their performance.

🎉 Let’s Tailgate—TQHA Style

What’s better than good friends, good food, and great horses? Join us for our Amateur Tailgate Party—a casual and festive gathering where exhibitors, trainers, family, and friends can unwind and celebrate the season. Expect snacks, music, and plenty of fun as we toast to another amazing year in the Tennessee Quarter Horse community.

📅 Don’t Miss Out

• Show Dates: September 11–14, 2025
• Location: Tennessee Miller Coliseum, Murfreesboro, TN
• Stall reservations and full showbill coming soon

Whether you’re competing for year-end goals or simply soaking in the last show of the season, the TQHA September Circuit promises a fantastic finale. Stay tuned to tqha.org and our social channels for full event details, registration info, and exciting updates.

TQHYA Youth News: Fundraisers, Clinics, Contests, and More!

The Tennessee Quarter Horse Youth Association (TQHYA) has been busy this spring, and the momentum is only picking up as we head into the summer show season. With successful fundraisers behind us and exciting opportunities ahead, we’re so proud of what our youth members are accomplishing—and how they’re growing both in and out of the show pen.

Lucky 7 Fundraiser Success

During the Lucky Seven Classic, TQHYA participated in the TPHC Consignment Sale thanks to a generous collaboration with Sheila Bennett and the Tennessee Paint Horse Club. Youth members gathered donated tack, apparel, and show supplies, which were then offered during the consignment sale—raising over $1,300 to support TQHYA programs! Thank you to everyone who donated or shopped, and special thanks to TPHC for partnering with us. We’re looking forward to hosting another consignment fundraiser at the TQHA September Circuit, so stay tuned!

Dogwood Classic Stall Raffle

To keep the fundraising spirit alive, we’re hosting a Stall Ticket Raffle during the Dogwood Classic!
• Tickets are $10 each, or 3 for $25
• The drawing will take place the morning of June 14
Proceeds go directly to support TQHYA events, scholarships, and educational opportunities.

YES Conference Interest

The AQHYA YES Conference is a one-of-a-kind leadership event for youth passionate about Quarter Horses. This year’s conference promises inspiring speakers, fun group activities, and the chance to connect with youth from across the country.
• If you’re interested in attending, please complete the YES Interest Form found at tqha.org/youth under Youth Info Links
• Form deadline: May 20
• AQHA registration deadline: June 1
Don’t miss this chance to grow your leadership skills, make new friends, and represent Tennessee on the national stage!

AQHYA Youth World Contest Entries

TQHYA is calling on all creative, confident, and passionate members! If you’re attending the AQHYA Youth World Show, you can also participate in a variety of individual contests—no horse required. Categories include:
• Prepared and Impromptu Speech
• 13 & Under Public Speaking
• Art and Photography Contests
Fill out the Youth World Contest Interest Form (also under Youth Info Links on the website) by July 15 to secure your spot!

Horse Judging Team Opportunity

We’re thrilled to announce that TQHYA will again be sending a Horse Judging Team to the AQHYA World Show in Oklahoma City this summer. Under the guidance of Courtney Smith, the team will prepare to compete on the national level in this highly respected contest.
• First practice: May 19
• No experience required—just a willingness to learn!
This is a great way to sharpen your evaluation skills, build confidence, and be part of a supportive team environment. Interested? Contact us through the Youth Page at tqha.org.

💵 New for 2025: Kimes Ranch Competition Award Fund Boosts Youth Incentives at AQHYA World

Big news for youth competitors heading to the 2025 AQHYA World Championship Show—there’s now more than glory and trophies at stake. Thanks to the newly announced Kimes Ranch Competition Award Fund, eligible exhibitors in select Level 3 classes and contests will also receive substantial cash awards. It’s one more way AQHA is investing in the future of young horsemen and horsewomen.

What is the Kimes Ranch Competition Award Fund?

This new fund will provide monetary prizes to the top three competitors in every Level 3 finals class, as well as to the top three finishers in select judging contests and public speaking competitions. The fund applies to the following categories:

• Level 3 Finals Classes (All Disciplines)
• 14-18 Individual and Team Judging Contest
• Youth Impromptu and Prepared Speaking Contests

Payout Breakdown

The award amounts are impressive—and will be held until the youth reaches the age of 18, giving them a boost as they head into college or career planning.
• 🥇 First Place – $5,000
• 🥈 Second Place – $2,500
• 🥉 Third Place – $1,500

This structure applies whether a youth wins in a riding class or a non-riding contest like speech or judging, helping highlight the many paths to excellence within AQHA youth programs.

Why It Matters

For many youth exhibitors, the AQHYA World Show is a pinnacle experience—whether they’re competing in the arena or in the classroom-style contests. The Kimes Ranch Award Fund not only honors their hard work but gives them a tangible investment in their future. It's a powerful incentive that celebrates more than just ribbons—it rewards discipline, preparation, and drive.

We encourage all TQHYA members to take advantage of this opportunity by preparing now. Whether you're practicing your pattern or writing your speech, know that every effort counts—and now, it could even help fund your next chapter.