AQHA President Sandy Arledge has been sharing her passion for American Quarter Horses during her many travels.

Since my last blog, I have been traveling and sharing my love for the American Quarter Horse with both old and new friends.

The San Luis Obispo County Quarter Horse Association held its 50th annual Mother’s Day Circuit in Paso Robles, California, and I was thrilled to be able to celebrate the anniversary of the longest-running AQHA show in California. This is a show with a terrific list of cattle classes that are very well attended. The walk-jog classes are also anticipated by many! The show is very well run by the attentive show management and is extremely exhibitor friendly.

While there, I had the chance to visit with fellow AQHA Professional Horsewoman of the Year Cynthia Cantleberry, who continues to enjoy riding and teaching folks the fine art of showing. When I moved to California in 1970, I had only shown in cutting, western pleasure, reining, halter and the speed events. I had never seen a trail class and had certainly never shown over obstacles. To me, a “trail” horse was one that went to the hills! I decided that showing at the Del Mar National Horse Show would be a good place to try the class and was offered a trail horse to give it a go. I introduced myself to Cynthia, and she was very helpful to me. As a newcomer, I appreciated her suggestions. I went on to train trail horses that were very successful, and I owe Cynthia for the kind encouragement she gave me then and in the following years. My advice to everyone in the equine industry is to never be afraid to ask for help, especially from an AQHA Professional Horseman. I always enjoy going to the Mother’s Day Circuit, and I hated to leave early, but I had to catch a plane to North Carolina for the Nutrena East AQHA Level 1 Championships.

Keep reading for more of Sandy’s recent adventures.