2017 Congress Media Guide by Ohio Quarter Horse Association

Table of Contents 51st ALL AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE CONGRESS

Horse Show: October 3-29, 2017 | Trade Show: October 6-29, 2017 Ohio Expo Center --- Columbus, Ohio Facts and Figures...................................................2 General Information..............................................3 Spectators and Competitors Admission Tickets History Ohio Expo Center Map..........................................4 Show Highlights.....................................................5 Small Fry Horsemanship The Masters Cutting Events Freestyle Reining Dummy Roping National Youth Activity Team Tournament Congress Super Sale Congress Queen Contest Corporate Partners...............................................6 Big Dee’s Tack & Vet Supplies Blue Ribbon Custom Tack Cashman’s Equipment Chick’s Saddlery Cinch Coughlin Automotive Equine Chronicle Equo Farnam Good Ride Harris Leather & Silverworks iEquine John Deere Justin Boots Lakota of Ohio Markel Insurance Montana Silversmiths NSBA Foundation Richwood Bank Rod’s Western Palace Salopek Golf Car & Equipment Schneider Saddlery Sean Ryon Saddle Shop SmartPak Tribute Equine Nutrition

Schedule............................................................7-8 Class Descriptions.............................................9-11 Barrel Racing Cowboy Mounted Shooting Cutting Equestrians with Disabilities Equitation over Fences Halter Heroes on Horses Horsemanship Hunt Seat Equitation Hunter Hack Hunter Under Saddle Jumping Longe Line NYATT Pleasure Driving Pole Bending Ranch Riding Reining Roping Showmanship Small Fry Special Events Trail Western Pleasure Western Riding Working Hunter Youth Contest......................................................12 Horse Bowl Communications Hippology Intercollegiate Judging Contest Youth Dummy Roping National Youth Activity Team Tournament..........13 Press Procedures.................................................14 Contact Information............................................15

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

GENERAL INFORMATION ALL AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE CONGRESS The Ohio Expo Center | 717 E 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211

SPECTATORS AND COMPETITORS

Exhibitors are horse enthusiasts, local equestrians, up-and-coming riders and world-class competitors from around the world. Competitors range from five years old to 60+. Spectators come from across the globe and include the general public, corporate executives and their families.

ADMISSION

Admission is FREE to the Congress Horse Show, Trade Show, Lectures and Demonstrations, and the Congress Queen Style Show. Parking is $25 per vehicle for a one-day pass or $75 per vehicle for the entire show. There is no other additional admission charge except for the Congress Cutting events, Professional Bull Riding, Freestyle Reining, and the Congress Masters classes.

TICKETS

Parking passes may be purchased at the gate or online. Tickets for special events such as the Congress Masters, Congress Cutting events, Freestyle Reining, and Professional Bull Riders must be purchased in advance online or at the Press Office Ticket Window.

HISTORY

The All American Quarter Horse Congress was founded on three basic horsemen desires: to compete, to socialize and to learn more about working with horses. The first Quarter Horse Congress was held November 3, 4 and 5, 1967 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio, attracting more than 4,000 paid registrations. Since then, the Quarter Horse Congress has added 23 days worth of competition and fun to the event, hosts the largest National Youth Team Tournament in the world, and has grown into the largest single breed horse show in the world. The Quarter Horse Congress celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016 with more than 23,500 entries and nearly 6,000 horses over its 25 days.

NEW FOR 2017

• NCHA Open Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA Non Pro Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA $50,000 Amateur Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA $35,000 Non Pro Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA $15,000 Amateur Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA $25,000 Novice Horse Pro Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA $2,000 Limited Rider Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA $5,000 Novice Horse Cutting Senior World Tour • NCHA $5,000 Novice Horse Non Pro Cutting Seniors World Tour • Congress Super Sale 2 Year Old Open Pleasure Stakes • Congress Super Sale 2 Year Old Non Pro Pleasure Stakes • Level 1 Amateur Select Trail/NSBA • Level 1 Amateur Ranch Riding/NSBA • Level 1 Youth Ranch Riding/NSBA • Elite Halter Futurity Open Limited Yearling Mares • Elite Halter Futurity Open Limited Yearling Stallions • Elite Halter Futurity Open Limited Yearling Geldings • Elite Halter Futurity Non Pro Yearling Mares • Elite Halter Futurity Non Pro Yearling Stallions

FINANCIAL IMPACT OF THE EQUINE INDUSTRY • 9.2 million horses in the US. 307,000 of which are located

in Ohio • More than 70 percent, or 215,000, horses in Ohio are involved in showing and recreation • 4.6 million people are involved in the horse industry • This means one out of every 63 Americans is involved with horses • Direct economic impact on US: $39 billion annually • Indirect economic impact: $102 billion when the multiplier effect of spending by industry suppliers and employees is taken into account

EXHIBITOR DEMOGRAPHICS

• Most attendees of the Congress are members of AQHA

(According to a AQHA Membership Survey) •Average member age is 45 • More than 60% are professional owners and managers • Each attendee spends more than $166 per day during the Congress

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

OHIO EXPO CENTER MAP HUDSON ST.

Ohio History Center

Cardinal Gate ENTRANCE Korbel North Campground

Gate 1

Parking Lot

Cardinal Shelter Korbel West Campground

Korbel East Campground

Lausche

FFA

Solar Home

Highway Patrol Academy

VELMA AVE.

Gate 10

Brown Arena Sheep Barn

Taft Coliseum

Gazebo

Cooper Arena

Dairy Bldg. Admin

CENTRAL PARK

Buckeye Ag Complex

Celeste Center

10 Paddock

Bricker

Gilligan Complex

17TH. AVE.

Gate 3

PLAZA

Gate 2

Cardinal Hall

Rhodes Center

2 KORBEL AVE.

1. Lausche Building 2. Rhodes Center 3. Cardinal Hall 3. Puppy Alley 4. Stall Office 5. Congress Hall Annex 6. Golf Cart Rental 7. Camping Refund Office 8. Gilligan Barn 8. Feed & Bedding 9. Congress Hall 10. Celeste Center 11. Shane Rux Photography 11a. Videographer 12. Coliseum 13. Congress Pavilion 14. Cooper Arena (Demonstrations) 15. Dairy Building (Dry Cleaning) 16. Ohio Expo Center Admin. Office 17. Congress Lecture Hall/Congress Corral 18. Buckeye Barn 19. Voinovich Barn & Photo Backdrop 20. O’Neill Swine Barn 21. Denny Hales Arena 22. VIP Camping 23. Ag & Horticulture Building 24. OEC Maintenance Office 25. North Commercial Building 26. OEC Maintenance Building 27. Cox Fine Arts Building 28. South Commercial Barn 29. Rabbit & Poultry Barn 30. Natural Resource Park 31. Adequan Barn 32. Buckeye Arena 33. Covered Longeing Pavilion 34. Exercise Walker 35. Exercise Walker 36. Crew Stadium 37. Farrier Tent

Buckeye Pavilion

Pavilion

Ohio

Buckeye Bldg.

Ag & Hort

Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center

Denny Hales Arena

O’Neill Bldg.

Cox

N. Commercial S. Commercial Rabbit / Poultry

FIRST AID

25 28

Maint. Office

Maint. Complex

Gate 6

Natural Resources Park

Gate 8

Ohio Gate South Entrance

11TH. AVE.

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

Gate 7

CLARA ST.

Janis

Gate 9

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Small Fry Horsemanship showcases the youngest riders at the Congress. Riders aged nine and under dress in bedazzled show clothes and compete on their mounts. The outfits are a sight to behold and the children are always smiling from ear to ear. The Masters Events include the Equine Chronicle Western Pleasure class and the Equine Chronicle Hunter Under Saddle class. These classes promote and showcase the natural talent of un-shown two-year-olds. The Congress Cutting Event features some of the best cutting horses and riders from across the country. Spectators will be thrilled with displays of extreme altheticism as horses weed cows out from the herd and hold them on the opposite side of the pen. The event includes the Cinch Bridleless Cutting and the finals of the Mercuria NCHA World Series of Cutting.

Small Fry Horsemanship

Freestyle Reining is often compared to figure skating in that riders create their own pattern to music. This competition combines the athletics and finesse of reining moves with the melodies of popular music in one of the Congress’ most popular events. Competitors (and their mounts) often wear costumes and may include props and actors in their performances. Dummy Roping classes provide an opportunity for young contestants (ages 5-12) to show off their roping skills by roping a plastic steer’s head on a bale of hay. There will be two rounds for the 9-12 year old division and three rounds for the eight year old and under division. The final round for both divisions is sudden death, in which contestants must rope the plastic steer from increasing distances.

National Youth Activity Team Tournament

The National Youth Activity Team Tournament (NYATT) brings together more than 60 teams and 400 youth from state and regional Quarter Horse associations to compete in seven events, making it the most popular youth event at the Congress. A maximum of two members from each team can compete in each event. Awards are given at the end of the tournament for both individuals and teams. The All American Quarter Horse Congress Queen is also crowned during this ceremony. The Congress Super Sale is a tradition at the All American Quarter Horse Congress. It has been held every year since the Congress began in 1967. The Super Sale is a place for horsemen and women to purchase some of the finest horses in the world. Only the best and brightest are offered at the Super Sale every year. The All American Quarter Horse Congress Queen Contest brings young women from all over the country to compete for the title. The contest consists of a written exam about the AQHA Official Handbook of Rules and Regulations, an oral interview and a Horsemanship pattern. The candidates also assist with the Queen’s Style Show, which highlights fashionable Western ear on the runway. Once crowned, the Queen serves as an ambassador to the show, making apperances throughout the year at national events. The Congress website, www.quarterhorsecongress.com, features full show information, schedule, results, ticket information and more. The site has a complete sponsor list, as well as a complete list of classes offered and a daily schedule.

Freestyle Reining

Bronze Trophies

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

CORPORATE PARTNERS

SHOW SCHEDULE Tuesday-Thursday, October 3-5 Cutting, Reining Friday, October 6 Cutting, Reining, Para Reining Saturday, October 7 Cutting, Reining, NRHA Open Reining Level 3 & 4 Futurity Finals Sunday, October 8 Cutting, Mercuria NCHA World Series of Cutting & Bridleless Cutting, Reining Monday, October 9 Cutting, Reining

Sunday, October 15 Working Hunter, Hunter Classic, English Yearling Longe Line, Halter, Small Fry, Equestrians With Disabilities Monday, October 16 Equitation Over Fences, Jumping, Hunter Hack, Halter, Yearling Longe Line, Small Fry, Western Pleasure Tuesday, October 17 Pleasure Driving, Western Riding, Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure, Halter, Hunter Hack, Youth Contests (Horse Bowl and Communications) Wednesday, October 18 Pleasure Driving, Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle, Western Riding, Horsemanship, Youth Contests (Hippology and Judging Tournament) Thursday, October 19 Trail, Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle, Youth Halter, Youth Horsemanship, Youth Equitation

Tuesday, October 10 Reining, Ranch Riding Wednesday, October 11 Roping, Tie-Down Roping Thursday, October 12 Calf Roping, Breakaway Roping, Dummy Roping Friday, October 13 Heroes on Horses, PBR Saturday, October 14 Working Hunter, Queen Horsemanship, Western Yearling Longe Line, Small Fry, Freestyle Reining, Equestrians With Disabilities

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

Friday, October 20 Trail, Hunter Under Saddle, Youth Halter, Western Pleasure, Horsemanship, Youth Western Riding, Youth Hunt Seat Equitation, Congress Super Sale 2 Yr Old Pleasure Stakes Saturday, October 21 Youth Showmanship, Western Riding, Western Pleasure, Halter, Horsemanship, Youth Hunt Seat Equitation, Congress Super Sale

Thursday, October 26 Trail, Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure, Hunt Seat Equitation, Pole Bending, Barrel Racing Friday, October 27 Trail, Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure, Western Riding, Pole Bending, Barrel Racing

Sunday, October 22 NYATT Competition, Hunter Under Saddle, Halter, Western Pleasure Monday, October 23 Western Pleasure, Halter, Horsemanship, Youth Trail, Hunter Under Saddle Tuesday, October 24 Showmanship, Western Pleasure, Western Riding, Horsemanship, Hunter Under Saddle, Hunt Seat Equitation Wednesday, October 25 Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure, Trail, Hunt Seat Equitation, Showmanship

Saturday, October 28 Hunter Under Saddle, Hunt Seat Equitation, Western Pleasure, Western Riding, Pole Bending, Barrel Racing, Congress Masters Western Pleasure & Hunter Under Saddle Sunday, October 29 Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Barrel Racing, Pole Bending

A full schedule is availale online at www.quarterhorsecongress.com

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS Barrel Racing Exhibitors follow a course consisting of three barrels in a triangular “cloverleaf” pattern. Exhibitors must cross a timer and choose either the right or the left barrel, circle it, and go to the next barrel, completing the course after circling the third barrel and running across the timer. Exhibitors are allowed to touch the barrels, but if they knock any down, a five second penalty per dropped barrel is added to the final time. This class is a timed event.

Dally Team Roping Dally Team Roping commonly known, as Team Roping is an event where two exhibitors work together to rope a steer. One exhibitor must catch the horns (heading) and the other must catch both hind legs (heeling). Only one member of the team is judged at a time and separate events are held to judge headers and healers. The competition starts with exhibitors situated on both sides of the chute that releases the steer. Once released, the header must catch the steer by the horns or the neck and dally (tie the rope to the saddle horn). Once caught, the heading horse must set and turn the steer in a 90-degree angle and pull the steer across the pen, allowing the heeler to catch one or two hind legs. The heeler must also dally and stretch the steer, which is the signal to end the run. The tie down roping is judged on four different maneuvers: box and barrier, running and rating, setting and handling, and facing. Scoring will be on the basis of 0-100 with 70 denoting an average performance. Each maneuver will be scored from a +3 to -3, in ½ increments.

Breakaway Roping Similar to Calf Roping, Breakaway Roping horses start behind a barrier where their time begins when the calf is let out of a chute and crosses a flag at a barrier. Exhibitor must race to catch the calf, at which point the exhibitor must throw a loop completely over the calf’s head. The rope may tighten around any portion of the calf’s body. Time ends when the calf breaks the rope from the saddle horn. A heavy string is used to tie the rope to the saddle horn and when the rider catches a calf, the rope breaks loose from the saddle. This is a timed event with a one-minute time limit. Hunter Hack Hunter Hack is the transitional class between Hunter Under Saddle Calf Roping and Working Hunter. This event requires the horse and rider to Calf Roping, commonly known as Tie-Down Roping, demonstrates move freely and easily over both small fences and on the flat. the horse’s usefulness for traditional ranch work. The event begins The purpose of hunter hack is to give horses an opportunity to when the exhibitor enters a box, where they must wait calmly show their expertise over low fences and on the flat. The hunter for the calf to be let out of a chute. The exhibitor stays behind hack horse should move in the same style as a working hunter. a barrier to give the calf a head start. Once the calf is released In this class, horses jump two fences, ranging in height from 2.3ft from the chute, the horse must run to the calf, rate the speed, to 3ft set in a straight line or diagonally across the arena. After and position the exhibitor to throw a loop to catch the calf. Once completing the jumps individually, finalists are brought back to the caught, the horse stops suddenly and stands still while the rider show arena to show along the rail at a walk, trot, and canter. The dismounts and ties the calf’s legs together. The tie down roping class will be judged on style over fences, even hunting pace, flat is judged on four different maneuvers: box and barrier, running work, manners, and way of going. Scores will be based on 70% of and rating, stop, and working with a rope. Scoring will be on the the individual fence work and 30% of the rail work. basis of 0-100 with 70 denoting an average performance. Each maneuver will be scored from a +3 to -3, in ½ increments. Hunt Seat Equitation Hunt Seat Equitation is designed to evaluate the exhibitor’s ability Cutting to perform various maneuvers on his/her horse which provides Cutting demonstrates the horse’s ability to instinctively respond to a base for natural progression to over fence classes. The various the movements of a cow and separate it from the herd. Exhibitors maneuvers are provided in a designated pattern format. The and their horse have two and a half minutes to move quietly into communication between horse and rider through subtle cues a herd of cattle, cut one cow from the herd, drive it into the center and aids should not be obvious when performing pattern work. of the arena and hold it away from the herd. The cutting horse Equitation is judged on the rider and his/her effect on the horse. must possess “cow sense”, which is a natural ability to out-think Exhibitors are to be scored 0-100 by one half point increments and out-maneuver a cow. While it is the job of a cutting horse to with final scoring being 90-100 (excellent), 80-89 (very good), 70keep the cow from returning to the herd, there are four other 79 (good), 60-69 (fair) 50-59 (one major fault), 40-49 (severe fault) horses and riders that are also in the ring. Two riders are called 10-39 (multiple severe/major faults). Hunt Seat Equitation On The “turn back men”, who keep the cow from going past the working Flat is only available in the amateur and youth divisions. area, while the other two riders known as “herd holders” keep the cow from going past the end of the arena. Scoring will be on the basis of 60-80, with 70 denoting an average performance.

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS Hunter Under Saddle Hunter Under Saddle was originally developed to determine which horse was most suitable for covering ground when following hounds across the field. Hunters will be shown at a walk, trot, and canter both ways of the ring and should back easily and stand quietly. The purpose of the hunter under saddle class is to present or exhibit a horse with a bright, alert expression, whose gaits show potential of being a working hunter. Its gait must be freeflowing, ground covering and athletic. Hunters should move with long, low strides reaching forward with ease and smoothness, be able to lengthen stride and cover ground with relaxed free-flowing movement while exhibiting correct gaits that are of the proper cadence. This class will be judged on performance, condition, and conformation. Maximum credit shall be given to the flowing, balanced, willing horse.

Pole Bending Pole Bending consists of a series of six poles spaced 21 feet apart, which exhibitors weave through at a high rate of speed. Exhibitors must cross a timer and run to the far end of the poles, turn and weave in and out as they work their way back to the front. Horses then complete a turn around the front pole and maneuver though the series again. At the last pole, they complete that turn and race toward the finish line at full speed. The exhibitor may touch a pole with his or her hand in pole bending. If the rider intentionally altars the original course by grasping a pole, a five-second penalty for each pole grasped will be assessed. This class is a timed event.

Ranch Riding The purpose of the Ranch Riding horse should reflect the versatility, attitude, and movement of a working horse. The horse’s performance should simulate a horse riding outside the Jumping confines of an arena and that of a working ranch horse. This class Jumping is a timed event that showcases athletic ability over should show the horse’s ability to work at a forward, working fences. Horses are required to jump a minimum of eight jumps speed while under control of the rider. The overall manners and in a specific order with a minimum height of 42 inches per jump. responsiveness of the horse while performing the maneuver Scoring is based on two rounds—preliminaries and jump-off. In requirements and the horse’s quality of movement are the the first round, the goal of the horse and rider is to have a “clear” primary considerations. The required maneuvers will include round, meaning they jump all the fences in the correct order with the walk, trot, and lope both directions; and the extended trot no faults. Faults occur when a horse refuses a jump or knocks and extended lope at least one direction; as well as stops and down a rail. All horses that have clear rounds advance to the back. The optional maneuvers may include a side pass, turns jump-off where the horse that completes the course in the fastest of 360 degrees or more, change of lead (simple or flying), walk, time wins. Any exhibitors who fail to complete the course or fall trot, or lope over a pole(s); or some reasonable combination are automatically disqualified. of maneuvers that would be reasonable for a ranch horse to perform. Each horse will work individually; performing both Halter required and optional maneuvers, and scored on the basis of A halter class is defined as a class where the horse is judged based 0-100, with 70 denoting an average performance. Points will be upon its conformation. The purpose of the class is to preserve added or subtracted from the maneuvers on the following bases, American Quarter horse type by selecting well-mannered ranging from plus 1 ½ to minus 1 ½: -1 ½ extremely poor, -½ poor, individuals in the order of their resemblance to the breed ideal 0 average, +½ good, +1 very good, +1 ½ excellent. Maneuver and that are most positive combination of balance, structural points are to be determined independently of penalty points. correctness, and movement with appropriate breed and sex characteristics and adequate muscling. The horse should be a Reining balanced athlete that is uniformly muscled throughout their body. Reining is designed to show the athletic ability of a ranch type Classes are divided by age and sex of the horse. Horses will be horse in the confines of a show arena. In reining competition, judged based on movement in the walk and the trot while being exhibitors are required to run one of several approved patterns. led by the exhibitors. Horses are then lined up to be judged on Each pattern includes small slow circles, large fast circles, flying conformation based on the judge’s discretion. lead changes, rollbacks of the hocks, a series of 360 degree spins done in place and the exciting sliding stops that are the hallmark Pleasure Driving of the reining horses. To rein a horse is not only to guide him but The purpose of this class is to evaluate the horse’s ability and to control his every movement. Any movement on his own must pleasurable attitude while pulling a cart. The horse should have be considered a lack of control. Exhibitors will be scored on a an engaged trot with more impulsion and a long ground covering basis of 0-100 with 70 denoting an average performance. Points stride. Style, conformation and safety are paramount in this will be added or subtracted from the maneuvers on the following class. A pleasure driving horse should carry his body in a natural bases, ranging from plus 1 ½ to minus 1 ½: -1 ½ extremely poor, -½ balanced positon with a relaxed head and neck. This class will poor, 0 average, +½ good, +1 very good, +1 ½ excellent. Maneuver be judged 80% on the horse’s performance and suitability for points are to be determined independently of assuring a pleasurable drive, with a maximum of 20% on condition penalty points. and conformation at the judge’s discretion. Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS Showmanship at Halter Showmanship at Halter is designed to evaluate the exhibitor’s ability to execute, in concert with a well-groomed and conditioned horse, a set of maneuvers prescribed by the judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence, and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamentally correct body position. Exhibitors are to be scored 0-100 by one half point increments with final scoring being 90-100 (excellent), 80-89 (very good), 70-79 (good), 60-69 (fair) 50-59 (one major fault), 40-49 (severe fault) 10-39 (multiple severe/major faults).Showmanship at Halter is only available in the amateur and youth divisions. Trail Trail is designed to demonstrate the performance of the horse over obstacles with emphasis on manners, response to the rider and quality of movement. Credit will be given to horses negotiating the obstacles with style and some degree of speed, providing correctness is not sacrificed. Horses should receive credit for showing attentiveness to the obstacles and willingly responding to the rider’s cures on more difficult obstacles. Horses will be penalized for any unnecessary delay while approaching or negotiating the obstacles. In this class, exhibitors follow a pattern through a series of obstacles which include opening, passing through and closing a gate, jogging or loping over logs and backing through L, U, or V shaped configurations. Other obstacles may vary, but come from an approved list: crossing a water hazard (ditch or shallow pond), carrying a common object from one point to another, riding over a wooded bridge, putting on and removing a rain coat, removing and replacing materials from a mailbox, turning 360 degrees in a tight area and side passing. Exhibitors will be scored on a basis of 0-100 with 70 denoting an average performance. Points will be added or subtracted from the maneuvers on the following bases, ranging from plus 1 ½ to minus 1 ½: -1 ½ extremely poor, -½ poor, 0 average, +½ good, +1 very good, +1 ½ excellent. Maneuver points are to be determined independently of penalty points.

80-89 (very good), 70-79 (good), 60-69 (fair) 50-59 (one major fault), 40-49 (severe fault) 10-39 (multiple severe/major faults). Western Horsemanship is only available in the amateur and youth divisions. Western Pleasure In Western Pleasure, the horse’s easy-going disposition, smooth way of going and response to changing gaits is put to the test. All exhibitors work at the same time and travel along the rail going both to the left and right at a walk, trot, and lope. Judges are looking for horses with a reasonable length of stride that gives a pleasant and smooth ride. This class is judged on performance, condition, and conformation of the horse. Western Riding Western Riding is designed to demonstrate and evaluate the horse’s quality of gaits, lead changes at the lope, response to the rider, manners and disposition. The horse should perform with reasonable speed, and be sensible, well-mannered, free and easy moving. Credit shall be given for and emphasis placed on smoothness and even cadence of gaits (i.e., starting and finishing pattern with the same cadence), and the horse’s ability to change leads precisely, easily and simultaneously both hind and front at the center point between markers. Exhibitors will be scored on a basis of 0-100 with 70 denoting an average performance. Points will be added or subtracted from the maneuvers on the following bases, ranging from plus 1 ½ to minus 1 ½: -1 ½ extremely poor, -½ poor, 0 average, +½ good, +1 very good, +1 ½ excellent.Maneuver points are to be determined independently of penalty points. Working Hunter The Working Hunter is a representative of the type of horse used in the hunt field. He should possess manners, jumping ability, style, pace and quality. The working hunter must be able to demonstrate his ability to furnish the rider with a smooth comfortable and safe ride. Emphasis is placed on the gracefulness and consistency of the Quarter Horse’s ability to complete a course of at least eight jumps, with obstacles made to simulate fences, natural brush, and walls that might be found in a hunting field.

Western Horsemanship Western Horsemanship is designed to evaluate the exhibitor’s ability to execute, in concert with their horse, a set of maneuvers prescribed by the judge with precision and smoothness while exhibiting poise and confidence and maintaining a balanced, functional and fundamental correct body position. The ideal horsemanship pattern is extremely precise with the rider and *Some descriptions can be credited to the 2017 AQHA Handbook horse working in complete unison, executing each maneuver with subtle aids and cues. Exhibitors are to be scored 0-100 by one half point increments with final scoring being 90-100 (excellent),

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

YOUTH CONTESTS Since its first year, the All American Quarter Horse Congress has encouraged participation by future generations of the Quarter Horse industry through a variety of youth activities. Aside from competing on a horse, there are many skills professional horse men and women must possess. These youth activities help prepare young participants for a bright future, in or out of the equine industry. For more information about these contests, please contact: Dr. Kimberly Cole at 614-292-2625 or cole.436@ osu.edu. Horse Bowl - Tuesday, October 18th - Rhodes Building In Horse Bowl, contestants are asked to answer equine-related questions in a competitive atmosphere reminiscent of a game show. Questions are asked in two manners: one-on-one and toss-up bonus questions. Questions involve everything from the evolution of the horse to current equine management practices and equine disease. Communications - Tuesday, October 18th - Rhodes Building The Congress communications contests were created to help develop public speaking skills and self-confidence in youth. Theses contests require contestants to craft a speech that illustrates a step-by-step procedure and explains why each step is essential to the overall product. Demonstrations go along with the speech and include visual aids which enhance the topic discussed. Contestants’ speeches are judged on organization, content, accuracy, stage presence, delivery and desire to communicate. Hippology - Wednesday, October 19th - Rhodes Building Hippology covers many of the same topics as Horse Bowl, but asks students to apply their knowledge. Points are awarded in three separate segments. The first is an examination which may include a written test as well as slides that must be identified. The second segment requires team members to travel to different stations where they must correctly identify different equine-related items such as types of grass or bones in the horse. The final segment requires contestants to judge four horse show classes, much like the judging contest. Once all three segments are completed, each team is given a single question to answer, which may require an impromptu answer or preparation and explanation.

Intercollegiate and Junior Judging Contest Wednesday, October 19th – Coliseum Each year students from across the country compete in the All American Quarter Horse Congress intercollegiate and youth judging contests. College, 4-H, FFA and Quarter Horse affiliate associations form judging teams which converge on the Congress to find out who has the best eye for horseflesh. Teams range from three to four members for youth to four to five members for intercollegiate. Teams in both divisions place four Halter classes and eight performance classes. Classes can incorporate mares, stallions or geldings and any number of performance classes, including Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle, Reining, Western Riding, Hunter Hack, Pleasure Driving, Trail, Horsemanship or Equitation. Specific classes will be announced as ‘oral reasons’ classes. Oral reasons are a chance for contestants to explain their placings. Both divisions award individual and team high-point awards in Halter, performance and oral reasons categories as well as overall awards. Scores are determined based on the accuracy of contestants’ placings as compared to the placings of a panel of approved judges. Youth Dummy Roping – Thursday, October 13 The Cinch Dummy Roping Contest allows young cowboys and cowgirls a chance to showcase their roping skills on the big stage of a Congress show arena. Contestants are divided into two age groups: 8 & under and 9-12 year olds. Contestants compete by roping a bones heel o matic. The competition begins with round one where two loops are thrown. Contestants who catch the steer both times advance to round two, if they are 8 & under. Contestants in the 9-12 division who make it past round one advance to the next round. In the finals, a distance line is marked and increases until a winner is crowned. Horn size may also be changed to determine a winner. Three legal catches will be used in the 8 & under division. “Slick horns” only will be used for the 9-12 division. Boundary lines will be used in all rounds. Contestants may not rope the entire dummy and no fishing is allowed.

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

NATIONAL YOUTH ACTIVITY TEAM TOURNAMENT The National Youth Activity Team Tournament (NYATT) is the most popular youth event at the All American Quarter Horse Congress. Although the competition is not approved by AQHA, it still brings together more than 60 teams and 400 youth from state and regional Quarter Horse associations across the country. Although competition does not start until teams arrive at Congress, NYATT is so competitive that youth must battle for spot on their associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team starting in the spring. Once teams are decided, many hold numerous fundraisers and obtain scholarships to fund their trip to the NYATT. Each state and regional Quarter Horse association is responsible for gathering their own team. Associations must have a minimum of four team members to participate in the contest, with no more than two members competing in each of the NYATT classes. NYATT classes include Barrel Racing, Horsemanship, Hunt Seat Equitation, Hunter Under Saddle, Reining, Showmanship and Western Pleasure. Contestants do not go home empty handed. Medallions are awarded to the top 15 individuals in each class, with class winners receiving the coveted Don Bell Congress bronze trophy. In addition, all members of the top six teams overall receive Don Bell Congress trophies. To determine team standings points are awarded for each individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts in every class, with first place receiving 10 points, second place receiving 9 points, and so on.

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

PRESS PROCEDURES The All American Quarter Horse Congress welcomes all working members of the media to request complimentary credentials to cover its events.

All media credential requests must be received by September 22nd, so that all necessary information can be sent to you prior to the show. Our office will close on September 27th to move to the Ohio Expo Center and we will be unable to send out media credentials after September 22nd.

Parking & Admission: Parking for the Congress is a per-vehicle fee. OQHA provides one (1) Entire Event pass per media outlet. Admission is free to all Congress events and exhibits, except for Please coordinate your planned coverage and include all requests the Congress Cutting events, Professional Bull Riding, Freestyle for credentials on one application for each media outlet. The Reining, and the Congress Masters classes. editor or owner should submit the request. To obtain Credentials: 1. Review the Credential and Photography & Videography Policies

Please note that parking permits are provided as a courtesy to members of the working media. Misrepresentation or misuse of Congress parking permits will result in a publication/stationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s denial of future media credentials.

Freestyle Reining, Masters & Cutting Tickets: A maximum of two (2) complimentary tickets per media outlet 2. Media Credential Request Form - Editors/Owerns must to Freestyle Reining, Masters and Congress Cutting Event are complete and sign the Media Credential Request Form. available upon request. All tickets must be pre-ordered on the 3. Letter of Assignment - Enditors/Owners must provide a letter media credentials form. Tickets must be picked up no later than of assignment written on company letterhead that specifies each 3:00pm the day of the event. No late orders or pick-ups will be event to be covered by staff and at what capacity (such as writer accepted. or photographer). Professional Bull Riders Tour: To obtain additional credentials for the Professionals Bull Riders performance, media must contact 4. Previous Coverage - Editors/Owners must include coverage of the 2016 All American Quarter Horse Congress if attended or their office directly. Visit www.pbr.com/media/press for more information. recent coverage of a similar event if not attended. 5. Return completed documents via email: media@oqha.com

Obtaining Results: All show results will be posted on our website, www.quarterhorsecongress.com/results. Printed copies and digital copies of results are available upon request.

Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com

Photography and Videography: The showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official photographer and videographer are the only parties permitted to provide others with competition videos or photos. Anyone selling photos to a third party is in violation of this policy. Additionally, we ask that all media remain outside of all show pens, and clear of entrance and exit gates. Media are limited to taking photos and videos from the stands, in warm-up pens or walking the grounds; please do not disturb exhibitors who are preparing to show. Please review the full Photography & Videography Policy for further details. Scheduling Interviews: If you would like to arrange interviews with Congress officials or exhibitors prior to, during or after the Congress, on-site, by phone or other means, we will be happy to assist in making arrangements. Please refrain from approaching exhibitors who are about to enter the arena to compete, as this is equivalent to preparing to go on the air live. Also, please note that members of the media are not permitted to enter the arena during competition. The show grounds encompass 360 acres and it is sometimes difficult to locate officials and/or specific exhibitors on short notice. Please call or e-mail the Press Office to get your interview scheduled promptly. We reserve the right to refuse media credentials, without cause, during pre-registration as well as at the onsite media registration. Due to high demand, media credentials are limited in number, so please return your request at your earliest convenience. The All American Quarter Horse Congress does not mail credentials in advance other than parking and check-in details.

CONTACT US The All American Quarter Horse Congress is hosted by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association. Thank you for covering the All American Quarter Horse Congress. We hope to make your efforts as simple as possible. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please visit the Press Room. Enjoy the Show! Email: media@oqha.com Website: www.quarterhorsecongress.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/quarterhorsecongress Twitter: @oqha Instagram: @qhcongress Telephone: (740) 943-2346 ext 124 (614) 294-0244 (October 3-29, 2017)

Media Check-In: All media must stop at the Press Office, located in the Celeste Center, to check in and pick up media credentials. Additional background information, news releases and assistance with setting up interviews will be available as well. Ohio Quarter Horse Association 101 Tawa Road, PO Box 209, Richwood, OH 43344-0290 www.oqha.com | www.quarterhorsecongress.com media@oqha.com