Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Quarter Horse? Known for speed, athleticism and trainability, the American Quarter Horse is incredibly versatile. Today, with more than 6 million horses registered, the American Quarter Horse is the world’s most popular horse breed.
What is the AQHA? The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is the world’s largest equine breed registry and membership organization.
What is the AQHYA? As part of the AQHA, the American Quarter Horse Youth Association (AQHYA) offers a variety of programs, educational resources and so much more, for all kinds for youth 18 & under who love Quarter horses.
How do I become a member of the AQHA or AQHYA? Membership can be obtained through the AQHA website.
What states are included in Region 5? New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.
Does an AQHYA membership require having a horse? No.
Do all AQHYA activities require a horse to participate? No. Just like the equine industry itself, there are several opportunities for AQHYA members to learn or showcase their talents outside of horse ownership. A few examples for you to consider:
- Youth Conferences:
AQHYA Region 5 Conference; January 25-26, 2025 State College, PA
AQHYA Youth Excellence Seminar; July 8-10, 2025, Amarillo, TX
- Art, Photography, and Speech Competitions (at the AQHYA World Show)
- AQHA Youth Racing Experience
- Young Horse Development Program
- Educational Resources + Videos
Ride the Pattern Clinic Videos
Equestrians With Disabilities (EWD)
AQHA and AQHYA members have a type of competition that offers people with certain cognitive and physical challenges the thrill of showing an American Quarter Horse. It provides an arena for everyone to enjoy the rewards of hard work, determination and
perseverance. This program allows you to show in eight classes and earn points for year-end, high-point awards, along with the satisfaction of a job well done. Potential classes include:
- Showmanship – Walk Only Showmanship; Walk-Trot-Jog Showmanship
- Supported Walk/Trot Classes are Hunt Seat Equitation on the Flat; Hunter Under Saddle; Trail; Western Horsemanship; Western Pleasure
- Independent Walk/Jog-Trot Classes are Hunt Seat Equitation on the Flat; Hunter Under Saddle; Para Reining; Trail; Western Horsemanship; Western Pleasure
- Independent Walk/Trot-Short Jog/Canter Lope Classes are Hunt Seat Equitation on the Flat; Hunter Under Saddle; Para Reining; Western Horsemanship; Western Pleasure; Trail
In 2025, AQHA was proud to expand these options further! All-age geldings and all-age mares EWD halter classes are available for AQHA approval. To learn more about this division, please check out the AQHA website.
Small Fry Classes
AQHA-approved shows now offer small-fry classes for exhibitors 9 and under! These Level 1 walk-trot classes are the perfect way to help young dreams grow big.
Small-fry classes are offered in showmanship, western horsemanship, western pleasure, trail, ranch riding, hunt seat equitation and hunter under saddle. These are walk-trot classes, available for exhibitors 9 years old and younger who are Level 1
eligible. Exhibitors are not required to own their horses; Level 1 ownership rules apply. Exhibitors may not cross-enter any loping/canter class at that event.
To find a show, use the link below for the AQHA website and search “Small Fry” to find upcoming shows offering the new classes. Lucky for our future exhibitors, small-fry classes are offered at several Region 5 shows.
