Earlier this year, approximately 40% of AQHA-approved shows were either cancelled or postponed to help protect the safety of AQHA exhibitors, spectators and staff. As a result, the AQHA Executive Committee waived qualifying requirements for AQHA championship shows affected by the worldwide pandemic.

Shows started to resume in May allowing exhibitors to cautiously begin making their way back to the show arena. As the industry continues to adapt and safely host shows during this challenging time, the AQHA Executive Committee has decided to move forward with traditional qualifying requirements for the 2021 AQHA championship shows.

The Executive Committee and AQHA staff will continue to monitor the situation throughout the qualifying periods for each show to determine if additional challenges arise and modifications need to be made. Specific qualifying point requirements will be reviewed by the Executive Committee and released later this year.

“We are proud of the entire equine industry for coming together during this unprecedented time, whether that is making modifications to safely host shows and races, or continuing important ranch work at home; every aspect of our daily lives has been affected and required adjustment,” said Justin Billings, AQHA chief show officer. “We are hopeful that 2021 will bring a sense of normalcy back to our lives, and as an Association, we are committed to continuing to offer options for our members to safely enjoy their American Quarter Horses.”