The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) has teamed with the Working Ranch Cowboys Association (WRCA) to recognize top horses at WRCA rodeos across the nation.

To honor the contributions ranch horses have made to the heritage of the American Quarter Horse, AQHA will sponsor a special recognition award to the top horse at every WRCA-sanctioned rodeo. The special achievement by these top horses will be placed on the horse's permanent AQHA record.

The AQHA Top Horse Award will be presented at each sanctioned WRCA rodeo to the best all-around registered American Quarter Horse. The first presentation of this new award was at the Green Country Classic Ranch Rodeo, which took place in Claremore, Okla., in March. Little Tronas Will, owned and exhibited by Jeff Heaton of Alva, Okla., was the inaugural award recipient.

"The ranch horse helped develop the foundation of the American Quarter Horse," said Don Treadway Jr., executive vice president of AQHA. "Today, American Quarter Horses are still a vital part of the success of ranches across the United States. AQHA is proud to work with WRCA and give this deserved recognition to outstanding American Quarter Horses