The American Quarter Horse Association is continuing its efforts to encourage and enhance show participation. Last year, AQHA launched the first year of Regional Experiences, and the Association continues with 10 Experiences scheduled across North America in 2006.

Created to encourage participation from exhibitors at all levels of ability, Regional Experiences open the doors for anyone who desires to learn more about American Quarter Horses. Regional Experiences blend competition, education and trade show commerce, as well as free test rides, to introduce more people to AQHA and invite previous exhibitors back to the Association.

“Last year’s Regional Experiences were a great success,” said AQHA Executive Vice President Bill Brewer. “Hundreds of riders of varying levels of ability were able to attend the event in their region and learn from AQHA’s most talented clinicians as well as compete with their American Quarter Horses in a relaxed, educational environment.”

Each of the 10 North American regions has the opportunity to host a Regional Experience for all divisions (youth and amateur, including novice, and open). In addition to competition, each Experience includes educational programs, such as clinics, American Quarter Horse Test Rides, judging sessions, plus nutritional and health seminars. Also, a trade show with vendors offering unique goods and services for all horse lovers will be held during the Regional Experiences. New in 2006, AQHA clinician Curt Pate of Helena, Montana, will teach the principles of starting a young horse and developing a better relationship with the American Quarter Horse