SHW108.1 Double Judged/Double Point (**DJ/DP*) This format features one show with two judges judging independently of one another which means top placings could earn two sets of points without having to exhibit twice. Double judged/double point shows are primarily found at major livestock shows where there are a large number of exhibitors. The majority of exhibitors who attend these shows are highly competitive, so expect top-quality exhibitors and American Quarter Horses. Expect to pay two entry fees as each of the two judge's placings will result in separate results and therefore, two full sets of AQHA points.
SHW108.1.1 All major livestock shows and state fairs that meet eligibility requirements will be allowed one double judged-double pointed AQHA-approved show per year.
SHW108.1.2 In multiple judged shows in the timed events only, one judge may oversee/judge the class(es) and sign both set of judge's cards.
SHW108.1.3 If show management wishes to return to original format after having utilized the DJ/DP the following year format they may do so.
SHW108.1.4 A maximum of two existing Affiliate-designated approved shows and existing state shows/fairs operating under the double-judge format may have the option of changing to a three or four judged format provided it does not increase the number of shows in that circuit. SHW108.1.5 Livestock Shows & Fairs are some of the largest AQHA shows are held during livestock shows and fairs. These collective events, which feature shows for other livestock, offer all levels of competition including youth classes. The number of entries may be high, and you can find seasoned and casual exhibitors.
SHW108.2 Split/Combined (**S/C**) Any two consecutive shows (like a Saturday and Sunday show) can be combined into one show and split over two days. There are two judges and two sets of points but the class is held only once. Expect to pay two entry fees.
SHW108.2.1 Existing split/combined shows have the option of modifying their schedule to allow a four-day show to be held in two days or a two day show to be held in one day by holding two shows simultaneously.
SHW108.2.2 Any two consecutive shows may be allowed to combine to be one show with classes split over a maximum of two consecutive days with two judges and two sets of points with classes only held once.
SHW108.2.3 Show management has the ability to select classes to be held each day under each judge separately and allow other classes to be held in a split combined format under both judges at the same time.
SHW108.3. Special Events (**SpEv**) As the name implies, special events may feature two single events like team penning and ranch sorting, barrel racing and pole bending or roping events like team roping and tie-down roping. Both serious and casual competitors attend special events. A single set of points is awarded at each special event. A maximum of two class types will be allowed per event. AQHA state/provincial affiliates may request two special events by category, per state/province.
SHW108.4 All-Novice Shows/Rookie (**All Nov**) shows hosted by or approved by AQHA state and provincial affiliates and are usually held as stand-alone events but can be held during an open (nonAQHA approved) show. A minimum of six novice youth and six novice amateur classes are recommended. An instructional clinic/seminar should be held in conjunction with the show and presented by an AQHA Professional Horseman. The show judge may not serve as a clinician. All-Novice shows may be held over two days and only one set of points are awarded.
SHW108.5 Alliance Shows (**AL EV**) AQHA points can be earned by competing at shows hosted by AQHA alliance partners such as National Cutting Horse Association, National Reining Horse Association, National Reined Cow Horse Association, National Snaffle Bit Association, Cowboy Mounted Shooting, etc. Approved events award points based on the AQHA system to those exhibitors who enjoy showing in both associations. Exhibitors must meet AQHA ownership and eligibility requirements. A complete list of alliance partners can be found at aqha.com.
SHW108.6 Versatility Ranch Horse Competition (**VRH**) demonstrates the versatility of the working ranch horse in five categories -- ranch riding, ranch trail, ranch cutting, working ranch horse and ranch conformation. Points will be awarded in each individual class according to the placing received and based on the number of horses competing in the particular class. Points will also be awarded to the overall winners who compete in all five classes based on their cumulative credits from the individual classes. To be eligible for points in the overall VRH competition, one rider/one horse must enter all five classes. Year end awards will be based on the number of points received in the overall placing. The Versatility Ranch Horse competition promotes the athletic ability and versatility of the horse.
SHW108.7 AQHA Equestrians with Disabilities This competition is open to people with physical or mental disabilities that love competing with American Quarter Horses. Classes can be held at AQHA-approved shows and events or can be stand-alone events.An Equestrian Proficiency Card from PATH and/or special adaptive equipment and riding ability form can help exhibitors when entering these events since the card provides show managers information about their abilities.
SHW108.8 Dressage is a French term meaning "training" and its purpose is to develop the horse's natural athletic ability and willingness to work making him calm, supple and attentive to his rider. Dressage patterns, or "tests," are designed to showcase the horse's ability to demonstrate these strengths through various movements. Competition occurs in a regulation size arena with specific apparel and equipment all regulated by USEF. AQHA-approved dressage classes will only be held concurrent with USEF/USDF-licensed shows which must be AQHA approved. Open, amateur and youth eligibility are based on AQHA criteria.
SHW108.10 INTRODUCTORY SHOWS To increase and enhance new exhibitors' participation and the AQHA show experience, AQHA, in its sole discretion, may waive and/or relax certain AQHA show rules for Introductory Shows which include AQHA classes in their already scheduled open, all-breed or 4-H shows. Introductory shows do not retain priority date status and points do not count toward World Show qualification or Incentive Fund payout.
SHW108.10.1 Rules which may be relaxed for introductory shows include: date and proximity conflicts with other shows; qualifications and obligations of show officials, or Judges application rules for specialized novice judges.
SHW108.10.2 Introductory shows shall be allowed to include limited exhibitor eligibility classes for the Youth, Amateur and Open divisions.
SHW108.10.3 Unless expressly waived or relaxed by AQHA, Introductory shows will adhere to all show rules.
SHW108.10.4 AQHA reserves the right to require six core classes: western pleasure, showmanship, western horsemanship, hunter under saddle, hunt seat equitation and trail.
SHW108.10.5 Introductory shows that exceed a 12 hour competition limit may be fined.
SHW108.10.6 Incentive Fund is not to be paid on points earned at introductory shows.
SHW108.10.7 Points earned at introductory shows do not count toward World Show qualification.
SHW108.10.8 an exhibitor, who has placed in the top 10 in any class at an AQHA World Show, is not eligible to compete at an Introductory Show in the class in which they placed in the top 10.
SHW108.10.9 Introductory shows count toward qualifying for the novice championship show.