There is a new class of AQHA horses that are now making the headlines, horses competing Ranch Horse Versatility. While this sport has been around for a while it is really starting to make the headlines become very popular in all parts of the country. In a depressed horse market it is also offering a market line.

There are now several different Associations offered to the public as well as AQHA competition. The AQHA Versatility Ranch Horse competition demonstrates the versatility of the working ranch horse in five categories - ranch riding, ranch trail, ranch cutting, working ranch horse and ranch conformation. Horses must compete in all five classes to be eligible for points.
 

The RHAA ( Ranch Horse Association of America ) was established in 1998 and is based in Abilene, TX. It was founded to promote the qualities and characteristics of the ultimate working ranch horse and provide a competition to show these ranch horses. Rules are a little different here, it is a timed event. Each rider’s time begins when they enter the arena. The contestant will have five minutes to complete their event. If it is an extremely large arena, time maybe increased to six minutes. The competition consists of three divisions all performed as one event, or competition, The contestant enters the arena and performs the reined work portion, then moves straight into the cow-working segment at this time contestant signals for only one animal to be turned out into the arena for the contestant to work on the fence and then rope,

The ARHA ( American Ranch Horse Association ) is based in KY & is set up to offer family oriented competition. It is open to all western stock-quarter type breeds. It also offers youth events, clinics & trial rides. They offer individual & family memberships. ARHA offers a variety of classes, Ranch Horse Conformation, Performances Events, Ranch Riding, Showmanship, Reining, Roping, Barrel Racing & many many more events. They also offer Affiliate Charters several states.

As this exciting event grows it offers a whole new line in the horse market as well as place for people to enjoy good friendly horse competition. There are many of these events now across the country to compete in or just go & watch the fun. There is nothing like watching a good horse at work