Our 2020 Classic Showbills will be available for downloading below in 2020.
The Saturday Showbill features all the Western classes and the Sunday Showbill features all the English classes!
2019 Classic Show Rules are available for viewing and downloading below. We anticipate some minor changes in our Show Rules for 2020 - all in an effort to continue to improve our shows!
Non-AQHA Class Descriptions are at the bottom of this page.
(Western Discipline Rail, English Discipline Rail, Hunter Versatility/English Trail, English Showmanship)
The Saturday Showbill features all the Western classes and the Sunday Showbill features all the English classes!
2019 Classic Show Rules are available for viewing and downloading below. We anticipate some minor changes in our Show Rules for 2020 - all in an effort to continue to improve our shows!
Non-AQHA Class Descriptions are at the bottom of this page.
(Western Discipline Rail, English Discipline Rail, Hunter Versatility/English Trail, English Showmanship)
Capitol Area Quarter Horse Association - 2019 Classic Horse Show Rules
Purpose: To recognize achievements of Members of the Association.
Overview –
Specific rules and details for each Division are listed below this overview by Division.
It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to read and understand the rules. We welcome your questions!
Purpose: To recognize achievements of Members of the Association.
Overview –
Specific rules and details for each Division are listed below this overview by Division.
It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to read and understand the rules. We welcome your questions!
CAQHA will award WESTERN Daily High Point and Reserve High Point Awards at each show in the following Divisions:
CAQHA will award ENGLISH Daily High Point and Reserve High Point Awards at each show in the following Divisions:
CAQHA will award a Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award at each show in the following Divisions:
CAQHA adheres to rules, policies, judgments, and procedures upheld by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), our parent organization. AQHA Class procedures apply to all applicable classes.
Divisions
Small Fry – 10 and Under Walk/Trot:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. Exhibitor/horse combination may NOT compete in any class that has a canter or lope.
- Small Fry Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Small Fry Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. Small Fry performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure and Horsemanship. Small Fry exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in a Youth Halter class will count toward the Western High Point Awards.
- Small Fry English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Small Fry English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. Small Fry performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle and Equitation.
- Small Fry Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English Small Fry classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show Champion Awards. Small Fry classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle and Equitation. Points earned in Youth Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
Small Fry exhibitors ARE eligible to compete in the 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY classes and Division. Small Fry exhibitors may not compete in any classes with a canter or lope. Only points earned in Small Fry classes will count toward Daily and Circuit Awards in the Small Fry division. If a Small Fry exhibitor also competes in the 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY division, any points earned in their respective Youth Halter class will also count toward the 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY division award.
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Walk/Trot ONLY 18 and Under:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. Exhibitor/horse combination may NOT compete in any class that has a canter or lope.
- 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship and Trail. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in a Youth Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY Circuit Show Champion – Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show Champion Awards. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Youth Halter class will also count toward Circuit Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Walk/Trot ONLY 19 and Over:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. Exhibitor/horse combination may NOT compete in any class that has a canter or lope.
- 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship and Trail. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in an Adult Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Adult Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Beginner Rider – All Ages:
Definition applies to the rider. These classes contain lope and canter gaits. This division is for exhibitors just starting their show career and beginning to compete in classes with lope and canter. Please use the honor system when determining rider status. Guidelines include: 1) If rider has previously won a Daily High Point Award, Series Award or Reserve Award in ANY division (EXCEPT Walk/Trot ONLY) prior to the start of the show, rider is not eligible to show as a Beginner Rider. 2) If rider has competed at any Breed National or World Show in any division prior to the start of the show, rider is not eligible to show as a Beginner Rider. Show Management reserves the right to disqualify any exhibitors who misrepresent themselves by entering Beginner Rider division classes for which they are not eligible. If you have questions or are unsure of your Beginner Rider status, please ask us. Open to riders of any age. If you qualify as a Beginner Rider at the first show, you may stay in the Beginner Rider Division throughout the calendar year. Stallions will not be allowed in Beginner Rider classes because youth exhibitors may also be riding in these classes.
- Beginner Rider Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Beginner Rider Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. Beginner Rider performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship and Trail. Beginner Rider exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in their respective Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- Beginner Rider English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Beginner Rider English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. Beginner Rider performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- Beginner Rider Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English Beginner Rider classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. Beginner Rider classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show High Point Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Youth 18 and Under
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. 18 and Under classes contain lope and canter gaits.
- Youth 18 & Under Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 18 & Under Western performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, and Trail. 18 & Under exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in their respective Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- Youth 18 & Under English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 18 & Under performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- Youth 18 & Under Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 18 & Under classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes and three English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. 18 & Under classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show High Point Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
Note: Open Western Riding (for riders of all ages) will be offered; this class does not count toward any high point awards.
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
19 and Over:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. 19 & Over classes contain lope and canter gaits.
- Adult 19 & Over Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 19 & Over Western performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, and Trail. 19 & Over exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in their respective Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- Adult 19 & Over English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 19 & Over performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- 19 & Over Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 19 & Over classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes and three English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. 19 & Over classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Halter will also count toward Circuit Show High Point Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
Note: Open Western Riding (for riders of all ages) will be offered; this class does not count toward any high point awards.
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Lead Line and Walk Only (10 & Under) Classes:
Virginia “Ginny” Nokes Future Horseman / Horsewoman
These Western Awards will be presented to Lead Line exhibitors, Walk-Only exhibitors and Riders with Special Needs exhibitors at each show. This memorial award is in honor of the late Ginny Nokes, a well-known and beloved professional horsewoman who was involved in several different breed disciplines throughout the state of Texas and beyond, mentoring hundreds of youth and adults in her career, including a few of our own CAQHA Board Members. Ginny remained active and vibrant late in life, still teaching into her 90’s and encouraging people to learn from the horse. Ginny now rides her favorite steeds across the grassy fields of heaven. The Capitol Area Quarter Horse Association is honored to carry on her mission of encouraging young riders!
Don Blazer Scholarship - Trail Class Competition:
This scholarship is awarded to any high school senior or students (of any age) enrolled in college, a trade or technical college, or university. To receive this award, scholarship recipient must show proof of current enrollment or admission to any of these programs of higher education. Exhibitor must show same horse in Don Blazer Scholarship Trail Class at both of our 2019 All Breed Classic Shows. The Don Blazer Scholarship Trail Class is a separate pattern and will not be identical to the other Trail class patterns offered in the show’s age divisions. Exhibitor with the highest number of points earned from all Don Blazer Trail Classes over the 2019 two-show series will be the scholarship recipient. Exhibitor must be a CAQHA member.
This Trail Class Scholarship serves as a tribute to the late Don Blazer, equestrian, trainer, and writer/columnist whose selfless guidance spanning several decades helped countless riders of all ages improve their skills and the relationship with their horse. Trail was one of Don's favorite classes because it embodies the best of the human/horse connection and bond. Don was a spiritual man with a passion for educating and helping horse owners with the care and training of the animal he loved.
Additional High Point Rules:
CAQHA Board Members and Officers are eligible for all High Point Awards; however, no Board Member or Officer exhibiting a horse for points or awards will be involved on the Show Committee in a formal decision making capacity as it relates to the hiring of judges or selection of patterns.
Payment for membership must be received BEFORE the first class is shown; no exceptions. You may join at the show prior to your first class. There are no minimum point requirements. AQHA class procedures apply to all applicable classes.
High Point. High Point ties broken by (a) greatest number of classes entered, (b) most first places, (c) flip of a coin.
Points earned in any class not designated in one of the divisions will not count. Classes not counting toward any High Point Awards are: Lead Line, Walk Only, Riders with Special Needs, Western Riding All-Ages, Junior Horse and Senior Horse Classes.
Show Rules:
1. CAQHA adheres to rules, policies, judgments, and procedures upheld by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), our parent organization. AQHA Class procedures apply to all applicable classes.
2. Upon judge’s discretion, management reserves the right to combine or cancel classes of fewer than 3 exhibitors.
3. Management reserves the right upon the judge’s discretion to split or run heats with classes of over 20 entries.
4. Management reserves the right upon the judge’s discretion to excuse a horse from competition if it is deemed lame or in poor health.
5. Management reserves the right to prevent an exhibitor from attending or participating in any of our shows if it is deemed that their presence may be a disruption to the show and/or its participants.
6. Showmanship is considered a performance event.
7. Stallions may NOT be shown / exhibited by a youth in any classes. Stallions may not be shown in any of the Youth or Beginner Rider classes. Anyone with a stallion who displays disruptive or potentially disruptive / unsafe behavior will be immediately excused from the show arena / premises by CAQHA management. Refund of unused entry fees is at discretion of show management.
8. Junior and Senior Horse Classes are not eligible for Daily or Circuit Awards. Junior Horse is 5 years of age or younger as of January 1, 2019 regardless of their actual date of birth. Senior Horse is 6 years of age or older as of January 1, 2019 regardless of their actual date of birth. Exhibitors are expected to adhere to bosal/snaffle bit AQHA guidelines re: Junior age and Senior age horses. Junior horses may be exhibited in bosal or shankless snaffle bit; Senior horses must be exhibited in a shank bit.
9. No refunds for scratches unless made IN OFFICE or AT GATE (via scratch form filled out by gate person) at least ONE class prior to the start of class to be scratched.
10. Must be a current member of CAQHA to be eligible for awards. All horses must show proof of current negative Coggins (current being within 12 months or less, from date of show).
11. If class numbers warrant, volunteer spotters will be utilized to assist the judge in determining the placings in Western and English Discipline Rail classes.
12. All exhibitors participating in the ‘Schooling Classes’ must wear a CAQHA exhibitor number. Anyone without a number who wants to ride in a schooling class must pay at the gate.
13. The 9 point system below is used to calculate Daily and Circuit awards. CAQHA awards ribbons through 8th place; points through 9th place, if applicable.
POINT SYSTEM
# of horses Placings
in the class 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th
9 or more 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
8 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 6 5 4 3 2 1
5 5 4 3 2 1
4 4 3 2 1
3 3 2 1
2 2 1
1 1
- Small Fry (10 and Under Walk/Trot)
- Walk / Trot ONLY 18 & Under
- Walk/ Trot ONLY 19 & Over
- Beginner Rider (all ages)
- 18 & Under
- 19 & Over
CAQHA will award ENGLISH Daily High Point and Reserve High Point Awards at each show in the following Divisions:
- Small Fry (10 and Under Walk/Trot)
- Walk / Trot ONLY 18 & Under
- Walk/ Trot ONLY 19 & Over
- Beginner Rider (all ages)
- 18 & Under
- 19 & Over
CAQHA will award a Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award at each show in the following Divisions:
- Small Fry (10 and Under Walk/Trot)
- Walk / Trot ONLY 18 & Under
- Walk/ Trot ONLY 19 & Over
- Beginner Rider (all ages)
- 18 & Under
- 19 & Over
CAQHA adheres to rules, policies, judgments, and procedures upheld by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), our parent organization. AQHA Class procedures apply to all applicable classes.
Divisions
Small Fry – 10 and Under Walk/Trot:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. Exhibitor/horse combination may NOT compete in any class that has a canter or lope.
- Small Fry Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Small Fry Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. Small Fry performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure and Horsemanship. Small Fry exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in a Youth Halter class will count toward the Western High Point Awards.
- Small Fry English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Small Fry English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. Small Fry performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle and Equitation.
- Small Fry Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English Small Fry classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show Champion Awards. Small Fry classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle and Equitation. Points earned in Youth Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
Small Fry exhibitors ARE eligible to compete in the 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY classes and Division. Small Fry exhibitors may not compete in any classes with a canter or lope. Only points earned in Small Fry classes will count toward Daily and Circuit Awards in the Small Fry division. If a Small Fry exhibitor also competes in the 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY division, any points earned in their respective Youth Halter class will also count toward the 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY division award.
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Walk/Trot ONLY 18 and Under:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. Exhibitor/horse combination may NOT compete in any class that has a canter or lope.
- 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship and Trail. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in a Youth Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY Circuit Show Champion – Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show Champion Awards. 18 & Under Walk/Trot ONLY classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Youth Halter class will also count toward Circuit Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Walk/Trot ONLY 19 and Over:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. Exhibitor/horse combination may NOT compete in any class that has a canter or lope.
- 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship and Trail. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in an Adult Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. 19 & Over Walk/Trot ONLY classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Adult Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Beginner Rider – All Ages:
Definition applies to the rider. These classes contain lope and canter gaits. This division is for exhibitors just starting their show career and beginning to compete in classes with lope and canter. Please use the honor system when determining rider status. Guidelines include: 1) If rider has previously won a Daily High Point Award, Series Award or Reserve Award in ANY division (EXCEPT Walk/Trot ONLY) prior to the start of the show, rider is not eligible to show as a Beginner Rider. 2) If rider has competed at any Breed National or World Show in any division prior to the start of the show, rider is not eligible to show as a Beginner Rider. Show Management reserves the right to disqualify any exhibitors who misrepresent themselves by entering Beginner Rider division classes for which they are not eligible. If you have questions or are unsure of your Beginner Rider status, please ask us. Open to riders of any age. If you qualify as a Beginner Rider at the first show, you may stay in the Beginner Rider Division throughout the calendar year. Stallions will not be allowed in Beginner Rider classes because youth exhibitors may also be riding in these classes.
- Beginner Rider Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Beginner Rider Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. Beginner Rider performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship and Trail. Beginner Rider exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in their respective Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- Beginner Rider English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Beginner Rider English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least two English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. Beginner Rider performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- Beginner Rider Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English Beginner Rider classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least two Western performance classes and two English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. Beginner Rider classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show High Point Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Youth 18 and Under
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. 18 and Under classes contain lope and canter gaits.
- Youth 18 & Under Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 18 & Under Western performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, and Trail. 18 & Under exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in their respective Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- Youth 18 & Under English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 18 & Under English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 18 & Under performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- Youth 18 & Under Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 18 & Under classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes and three English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. 18 & Under classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Halter class will also count toward Circuit Show High Point Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
Note: Open Western Riding (for riders of all ages) will be offered; this class does not count toward any high point awards.
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
19 and Over:
Age of exhibitor is as of January 1, 2019. 19 & Over classes contain lope and canter gaits.
- Adult 19 & Over Western High Point - Western High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over Western classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes in this division to be eligible for the Western High Point Awards. 19 & Over Western performance classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, and Trail. 19 & Over exhibitors may also show in Halter (this class is NOT required) however any points earned in their respective Halter class will count toward Western High Point Awards.
- Adult 19 & Over English High Point – English High Point and Reserve High Point Awards will be given for the highest number of points earned in all 19 & Over English Classes at each show. Exhibitor must show in at least three English performance classes in this division to be eligible for the English High Point Awards. 19 & Over performance classes include English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail).
- 19 & Over Circuit Show Champion - Circuit Champion, Reserve Champion and a Top Three Award will be given for the highest number of points earned in all Western and English 19 & Over classes at each two-day show. Exhibitor must show in at least three Western performance classes and three English performance classes to be eligible for the Circuit Show High Point Awards. 19 & Over classes include Western Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Discipline Rail, Trail, English Showmanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Equitation, English Discipline Rail, and Hunter Versatility (English Trail). Points earned in Western Halter will also count toward Circuit Show High Point Awards. (Halter is NOT required.)
Note: Open Western Riding (for riders of all ages) will be offered; this class does not count toward any high point awards.
All exhibitors showing for any High Point Awards must be a current CAQHA member. Horses of all breeds (including unregistered horses) are eligible for the 2019 awards program.
Lead Line and Walk Only (10 & Under) Classes:
Virginia “Ginny” Nokes Future Horseman / Horsewoman
These Western Awards will be presented to Lead Line exhibitors, Walk-Only exhibitors and Riders with Special Needs exhibitors at each show. This memorial award is in honor of the late Ginny Nokes, a well-known and beloved professional horsewoman who was involved in several different breed disciplines throughout the state of Texas and beyond, mentoring hundreds of youth and adults in her career, including a few of our own CAQHA Board Members. Ginny remained active and vibrant late in life, still teaching into her 90’s and encouraging people to learn from the horse. Ginny now rides her favorite steeds across the grassy fields of heaven. The Capitol Area Quarter Horse Association is honored to carry on her mission of encouraging young riders!
Don Blazer Scholarship - Trail Class Competition:
This scholarship is awarded to any high school senior or students (of any age) enrolled in college, a trade or technical college, or university. To receive this award, scholarship recipient must show proof of current enrollment or admission to any of these programs of higher education. Exhibitor must show same horse in Don Blazer Scholarship Trail Class at both of our 2019 All Breed Classic Shows. The Don Blazer Scholarship Trail Class is a separate pattern and will not be identical to the other Trail class patterns offered in the show’s age divisions. Exhibitor with the highest number of points earned from all Don Blazer Trail Classes over the 2019 two-show series will be the scholarship recipient. Exhibitor must be a CAQHA member.
This Trail Class Scholarship serves as a tribute to the late Don Blazer, equestrian, trainer, and writer/columnist whose selfless guidance spanning several decades helped countless riders of all ages improve their skills and the relationship with their horse. Trail was one of Don's favorite classes because it embodies the best of the human/horse connection and bond. Don was a spiritual man with a passion for educating and helping horse owners with the care and training of the animal he loved.
Additional High Point Rules:
CAQHA Board Members and Officers are eligible for all High Point Awards; however, no Board Member or Officer exhibiting a horse for points or awards will be involved on the Show Committee in a formal decision making capacity as it relates to the hiring of judges or selection of patterns.
Payment for membership must be received BEFORE the first class is shown; no exceptions. You may join at the show prior to your first class. There are no minimum point requirements. AQHA class procedures apply to all applicable classes.
High Point. High Point ties broken by (a) greatest number of classes entered, (b) most first places, (c) flip of a coin.
Points earned in any class not designated in one of the divisions will not count. Classes not counting toward any High Point Awards are: Lead Line, Walk Only, Riders with Special Needs, Western Riding All-Ages, Junior Horse and Senior Horse Classes.
Show Rules:
1. CAQHA adheres to rules, policies, judgments, and procedures upheld by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), our parent organization. AQHA Class procedures apply to all applicable classes.
2. Upon judge’s discretion, management reserves the right to combine or cancel classes of fewer than 3 exhibitors.
3. Management reserves the right upon the judge’s discretion to split or run heats with classes of over 20 entries.
4. Management reserves the right upon the judge’s discretion to excuse a horse from competition if it is deemed lame or in poor health.
5. Management reserves the right to prevent an exhibitor from attending or participating in any of our shows if it is deemed that their presence may be a disruption to the show and/or its participants.
6. Showmanship is considered a performance event.
7. Stallions may NOT be shown / exhibited by a youth in any classes. Stallions may not be shown in any of the Youth or Beginner Rider classes. Anyone with a stallion who displays disruptive or potentially disruptive / unsafe behavior will be immediately excused from the show arena / premises by CAQHA management. Refund of unused entry fees is at discretion of show management.
8. Junior and Senior Horse Classes are not eligible for Daily or Circuit Awards. Junior Horse is 5 years of age or younger as of January 1, 2019 regardless of their actual date of birth. Senior Horse is 6 years of age or older as of January 1, 2019 regardless of their actual date of birth. Exhibitors are expected to adhere to bosal/snaffle bit AQHA guidelines re: Junior age and Senior age horses. Junior horses may be exhibited in bosal or shankless snaffle bit; Senior horses must be exhibited in a shank bit.
9. No refunds for scratches unless made IN OFFICE or AT GATE (via scratch form filled out by gate person) at least ONE class prior to the start of class to be scratched.
10. Must be a current member of CAQHA to be eligible for awards. All horses must show proof of current negative Coggins (current being within 12 months or less, from date of show).
11. If class numbers warrant, volunteer spotters will be utilized to assist the judge in determining the placings in Western and English Discipline Rail classes.
12. All exhibitors participating in the ‘Schooling Classes’ must wear a CAQHA exhibitor number. Anyone without a number who wants to ride in a schooling class must pay at the gate.
13. The 9 point system below is used to calculate Daily and Circuit awards. CAQHA awards ribbons through 8th place; points through 9th place, if applicable.
POINT SYSTEM
# of horses Placings
in the class 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th
9 or more 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
8 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
7 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
6 6 5 4 3 2 1
5 5 4 3 2 1
4 4 3 2 1
3 3 2 1
2 2 1
1 1
Non-AQHA Class Descriptions:
Western Discipline Rail:
This class is to show the ability of a highly trained Western horse. Final judging shall be on the basis of the best overall discipline rail performance. This class is judged on performance, manners and correct, prompt execution of the maneuvers. The class will perform work on the rail as a group and may include, but is not limited to:
- Walk, jog or lope*
- Extended walk, extended jog or extended lope*
- Simple or flying lead changes of each way*
- Starting into a lope from a halt*
- Starting and traveling on the counter lope*
- Side pass both left and right
- Turn on the forehand and turn on hind quarter
- Stand quietly
- Judge may ask for additional safe work.
- For safety reasons, exhibitors will not be required to mount or dismount
* - Walk/Jog classes will NOT be asked to lope or perform any maneuvers that require a lope.
English Discipline Rail:
This class is to show the ability of a highly trained English horse. Final judging shall be on the basis of the best overall discipline rail performance. This class is judged on performance, manners and correct, prompt execution of the maneuvers. The class will perform work on the rail as a group and may include, but is not limited to:
- Walk, trot or canter*
- Extended trot or extended canter*
- Two point position of rider
- Simple or flying lead changes of each way*
- Starting into a canter from a halt*
- Starting and traveling on the counter canter*
- Dropping the 'irons' in walk, trot or canter - may also include posting without stirrups*
- Leg yield both left and right on the rail and/or on the diagonal
- Turn on the forehand and turn on haunches
- Shoulder-in and/or haunches-in and/or out at a walk and/or trot
- Stand quietly
- Judge may ask for additional safe work.
- For safety reasons, exhibitors will not be required to mount or dismount
* - Walk/Trot classes will NOT be asked to canter or perform any maneuvers that require a canter.
Hunter Versatility (English Trail):
This class is judged on the performance of the horse. The overall objective for this class is to promote the more broke, versatile English horse that can perform maneuvers other than showing on the rail, with the intent that these horses could eventually progress to show in over-fences classes. The class will be judged on mannerisms, movement (consistent with hunter-type horses), responsiveness to the rider, and performance in negotiating the required maneuvers. Scoring system to be used will be the same as Western Trail. Horses to be shown in hunt seat tack and equipment. All equipment and rider attire rules for Hunter Under Saddle class will also apply to this class. Riders shall perform an individual pattern consisting of a series of maneuvers and the negotiation of obstacles such as logs, cones and cavallettis.
Required maneuvers will consist of:
- Walk, trot or canter over logs*
- Side pass over or between an obstacle
- Back through or around an obstacle or a series of cones or markers
- Show all three gaits (walk, trot and canter*) sometime during the pattern
Additional maneuvers which may be asked for include:
- Trotting circles or figure-8’s
- Cantering circles or figure-8’s with a simple or flying lead change*
- Trotting over elevated poles or cavallettis
- Opening and closing a gate
- Turns on the forehand or haunches
- Leg yields at the walk or trot
- Extended gaits at the trot or canter*
- Various gait transitions
- Trotting around or through obstacles such as cones or other markers
- Walking over a bridge
Patterns are designed to give credit to the forward-moving, hunter-type horses. At the option of Show Management, finals may consist of rail work and/or additional pattern work.
* - Walk/Trot classes will NOT be asked to canter or perform any maneuvers that require a canter.
English Showmanship:
Like Western Showmanship, the English Showmanship class is designed to evaluate the exhibitor’s ability to execute, in concert with their horse, a set of maneuvers prescribed by the Judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamentally correct body position. Horses shall be shown in a plain leather halter with lead shank or show bridle. In all cases, leather equipment is suggested and preferred over other materials. Decorative silver bridles and silver halters are prohibited. Suitable English attire shall be worn by the exhibitor. Patterns are designed to give credit to the forward-moving, hunter-type horses.
Western Discipline Rail:
This class is to show the ability of a highly trained Western horse. Final judging shall be on the basis of the best overall discipline rail performance. This class is judged on performance, manners and correct, prompt execution of the maneuvers. The class will perform work on the rail as a group and may include, but is not limited to:
- Walk, jog or lope*
- Extended walk, extended jog or extended lope*
- Simple or flying lead changes of each way*
- Starting into a lope from a halt*
- Starting and traveling on the counter lope*
- Side pass both left and right
- Turn on the forehand and turn on hind quarter
- Stand quietly
- Judge may ask for additional safe work.
- For safety reasons, exhibitors will not be required to mount or dismount
* - Walk/Jog classes will NOT be asked to lope or perform any maneuvers that require a lope.
English Discipline Rail:
This class is to show the ability of a highly trained English horse. Final judging shall be on the basis of the best overall discipline rail performance. This class is judged on performance, manners and correct, prompt execution of the maneuvers. The class will perform work on the rail as a group and may include, but is not limited to:
- Walk, trot or canter*
- Extended trot or extended canter*
- Two point position of rider
- Simple or flying lead changes of each way*
- Starting into a canter from a halt*
- Starting and traveling on the counter canter*
- Dropping the 'irons' in walk, trot or canter - may also include posting without stirrups*
- Leg yield both left and right on the rail and/or on the diagonal
- Turn on the forehand and turn on haunches
- Shoulder-in and/or haunches-in and/or out at a walk and/or trot
- Stand quietly
- Judge may ask for additional safe work.
- For safety reasons, exhibitors will not be required to mount or dismount
* - Walk/Trot classes will NOT be asked to canter or perform any maneuvers that require a canter.
Hunter Versatility (English Trail):
This class is judged on the performance of the horse. The overall objective for this class is to promote the more broke, versatile English horse that can perform maneuvers other than showing on the rail, with the intent that these horses could eventually progress to show in over-fences classes. The class will be judged on mannerisms, movement (consistent with hunter-type horses), responsiveness to the rider, and performance in negotiating the required maneuvers. Scoring system to be used will be the same as Western Trail. Horses to be shown in hunt seat tack and equipment. All equipment and rider attire rules for Hunter Under Saddle class will also apply to this class. Riders shall perform an individual pattern consisting of a series of maneuvers and the negotiation of obstacles such as logs, cones and cavallettis.
Required maneuvers will consist of:
- Walk, trot or canter over logs*
- Side pass over or between an obstacle
- Back through or around an obstacle or a series of cones or markers
- Show all three gaits (walk, trot and canter*) sometime during the pattern
Additional maneuvers which may be asked for include:
- Trotting circles or figure-8’s
- Cantering circles or figure-8’s with a simple or flying lead change*
- Trotting over elevated poles or cavallettis
- Opening and closing a gate
- Turns on the forehand or haunches
- Leg yields at the walk or trot
- Extended gaits at the trot or canter*
- Various gait transitions
- Trotting around or through obstacles such as cones or other markers
- Walking over a bridge
Patterns are designed to give credit to the forward-moving, hunter-type horses. At the option of Show Management, finals may consist of rail work and/or additional pattern work.
* - Walk/Trot classes will NOT be asked to canter or perform any maneuvers that require a canter.
English Showmanship:
Like Western Showmanship, the English Showmanship class is designed to evaluate the exhibitor’s ability to execute, in concert with their horse, a set of maneuvers prescribed by the Judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamentally correct body position. Horses shall be shown in a plain leather halter with lead shank or show bridle. In all cases, leather equipment is suggested and preferred over other materials. Decorative silver bridles and silver halters are prohibited. Suitable English attire shall be worn by the exhibitor. Patterns are designed to give credit to the forward-moving, hunter-type horses.