In the last 12 years the Novice Horse classes have become some of the most popular classes at the horse show. It all began to shift the focus away from 2-year-old futurities and rather concentrate on holding young horses to be stronger 3 and 4-year old competitors. This year is no exception, with maiden and novice horse classes topping 25 or more across the country it is obvious the classes are nothing short of a success. With that mentality in mind The Cook Family has decided to sponsor a The All American Novice Horse Futurity at this year’s Big A in Conyers, Georgia. The top 10 show is a favorite for the Cook Family, of Cypress, Texas so it was an easy decision where to offer their inaugural class.

“The 3-Year-Old Novice & Maiden classes are really starting to attract a lot of attention over the last couple years. Even though Melissa and I really enjoy watching 2-year-old futurities, we believe that these Novice Horse/Maiden classes are crucial to our industry,” JR Cook said. “Not every horse is going to make it to the arena as a 2-year-old. Some horses need more time to mature than others for a variety of reasons. Giving those horses another avenue to go show and earn a significant amount of money is important to us.”

The class will take place July 5 during the Western Pleasure portion of the Big A and will feature $10,000 added as well as a Blue Ribbon Work Saddle, sponsored by Mid-South Equine Sports Medicine to the first exhibitor out of the money. There is a $250 entry fee and 90% will go into the purse. All eligible horses cannot have earned $1,000 as of Jan 1, nor be the overall Champion or Reserve Champion at The March To The Arch, Virginia Maiden, The Madness or Premier Limited Horse/Limited Rider. Limited Champion and Reserve Champions are eligible with the exception of the Premier Limited Horse/Limited Rider.

“These types of classes provide value for the horses eligible, and I believe the more horses that we provide value to will help our industry grow,” Cook said.

The Stars and Stripes/Big A is an AQHA Top 10 Show hosted annually over the Fourth of July in Conyers, Georgia. The show is managed by Kathy Avolt of An Equine Production. This year’s show will run June 30 – July 9 and feature a full slate of AQHA classes in addition to a Trail Derby sponsored by Markell, a Heroes Horsemanship Challenge, a Bridleless Western Pleasure and select NSBA Classes.

“The Big A has always been one of my family’s favorite circuits. It’s summertime, kids are out of school, it’s over the Fourth of July holiday, and it is one of the last big circuits before everyone starts transitioning their focus and efforts to the NSBA World Show, Congress and AQHA World Show. I thought it was the perfect fit for this class,” Cook explained.

In addition to the Novice Horse Futurity another new addition this year will be The All American Novice Horse/Non-Pro Futurity brought to you by The All American Futurity and Mid-South Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery. This class will feature $1,000 added and NSBA Novice Horse rules apply.

For more information on The Stars & Stripes/Big A including a list of judges and schedule visit www.AnEquineProduction.com. And be sure to like our Facebook page to receive live results and candids from the show.