2019 AHA Convention - AHA/USEF Rule Changes

Our MAHA delegates enjoyed a long weekend at the 2019 AHA Convention.  We had the opportunity to listen to keynote speakers, network with other AHA members, and meet with regional delegates to discuss issues pertaining to our region and regional show.  We are honored by the opportunity to represent our clubs and region at the national level!

One of the tasks given to all delegates at convention is to vote on resolutions.  If approved by USEF, these resolutions will be included in the AHA and USEF rule books by December 2020.  I have included summaries of each of the resolutions that will affect MAHA members.  These rules will not be in effect until the 2021 show season.  If you have any questions regarding these or other resolutions, feel free to e-mail MAHA club delegate, Joan Rozeboom at [email protected].

New Classes:  Walk/Trot 11 & over, Ranch Rail Pleasure, and Ranch Horse Trail, and Ranch Horse Working Cow.  Walk/Trot 11 & over and Ranch Horse Rail Pleasure will be held as exhibition classes at the 2020 Region 6 Championship Show (region6aha.com).

Concurrent Regional Specialty Classes:  This resolution will allow the regional show to hold concurrent specialty classes (between two regions).  Specialty classes include working hunter, working cow, trail, reining, and sport horse.  Concurrent classes would utilize two judges and two separate awards (one for each region).  

Combined Regional Shows: This resolution allows regional shows to combine any or all of their regional classes (between two regions).  Combined regional classes would utilize one judge and one set of awards.

Showmanship: Updates to AR250-AR254

Sport Horse Appointments: Whips, crops, or bats (legal for the type) will be allowed in Sport Horse Under Saddle classes.  Earplugs are permitted, regardless of type.

Sport Horse In-Hand:  AR175.3 - Change of age for Champion/Reserve Champion classes.  AR178  - Change to tack (chain placement).  

-submitted by MAHA club delegate, Joan Rozeboom